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Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Well, we finally made it! As you read this, we will be days away from one of the most contentious elections this country has ever seen. Whichever side you are on, I sincerely hope you use your voice and vote on or before November 5th. It matters. You can be happy or sad at the final tally, but if you do not vote then you have no right to voice an opinion about the results.
As a UK citizen I am not able to vote in this country, but due to a recent rule change I was able to cast my vote for the first time in the latest UK elections. I cannot tell you how thrilled I was to finally be able to have a say in the future of my country.
I am always amazed at the people I talk to who say they don’t vote. They think their vote does not count. Or assume they know the outcome, so they don’t bother to go to the polls. I can tell you with certainty, that is not true. As Lenny Kravitz famously sang, “It ain’t over ‘till it’s over.”
Cast your mind back in time to the late 1990’s, a blockbuster movie was set to hit the screen — Titanic. I resisted the ads and trailers. Pushed back at the people who swooned over Leo and Kate’s love story. Mocked those who called it the best movie they had
seen in years. Why would I want to go to all the effort of driving to the theater, fighting the crowds, (remember when there were crowds at the movies?), pay for a ticket and watch something, when I knew how it would turn out? I knew that the boat was touted as an unsinkable vessel. I knew that there was a class war on board and that the majority of those saved were from first class. I knew that in the end the majority of the characters would die a horrible death — so why bother?
Well I eventually did see the movie and I was wrong about so much. It was a fantastic story, well acted, beautifully told and stunningly filmed. And I loved it. I cried my eyes out but it was worth the effort.
Do you see the parallel I am making here? I am not saying that the future of our country is as trite as a movie, but it is something you should make the effort to participate in. For your future.
Catherine Uretsky
Editor, Up The Hill Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com
623.398.5541
On Our Cover
CantaMia residents help resolve one of the nation’s oldest and most difficult cold case murders ever solved! Jack Anderson comes from a family of 10 siblings, one of whom was murdered in Hawaii back in 1972 when he was only 12 years old. For over half a century he and his family have been on a quest to find answers.
At the exact moment Nancy Anderson was murdered in 1972, her glass covered portrait fell off the wall at her family’s home in Colorado 3000 miles away, shattering on the ground at Jack’s feet. This loss has profoundly affected him for his entire life. The story is based on true events that inspired a family of 9 siblings to embark on a 50-year quest to resolve their life-long brittle riddle… (the unsolved brutal murder of their sister). It’s also the story of how a world-renowned DNA expert never gave up in finding Nancy’s killer, developing a ground breaking investigative genetic genealogy method used for the first time to solve a cold case murder.
Jack’s sister, Carol Sampson (also a West Valley resident) was also instrumental in helping resolve their sister Nancy’s murder. Together they represented their family and worked very closely with the Honolulu Cold Case Detectives for over half a
century. However, they will not take credit for getting their sister’s murder solved as the credit goes to the genetic genealogists (CeCe Moore) and the Honolulu cold case detectives who truly solved this mystery. However, they were instrumental in helping to resolve this murder by being relentless in moving her case forward for a half century.
Jack is not profiting from the sales of his book as all proceeds go to www.dnajustice.org “It’s our way of giving back to help other families who find themselves in a similar unfortunate situation”.
Nancy Anderson’s murder is one of the oldest in the nation resulting in an indictment. Older solved cases involved murderers, and the victim’s immediate family members, who were already deceased. Nancy’s murder is also the 5th oldest cold case in the nation resulting in an indictment and the oldest case in the world involving the largest number of immediate family members still surviving (based on time of publication). The story has many shocking twists and turns and the way in which the murderer was caught is truly remarkable.
The Brittle Riddle is available for purchase on Amazon.
The Doctor Is In
Ask Dr. Jen:
The #1 Ingredient for Success, Part 2
Last month, we talked about using lack of confidence as an excuse for lack of success. This month, we’re discussing where fear comes from and how to reframe it to get out of your own way.
Fear is a feeling, and feelings ALWAYS come from thoughts. Some people feel fear when they see a spider; others don’t. The difference is the thoughts that occur to them when they see the spider. Those thoughts lead to feelings, which then generate behavior in response to the spider. But fear is just a feeling, not a fact, and you have to learn to put a different feeling in its place: Confidence.
Fear happens when your brain plays tricks on you. It starts with your underlying self-limiting beliefs, which generate objections in your mind. You have to CHOOSE to see things differently. Instead of letting fear stop you, reframe it as “False Evidence Appearing Real.” Fear is a liar. Think about it: most of the things we worry about never actually happen.
Believe it or not, you were born with a decent amount of confidence.
How do I know this? How did you learn to walk, talk, ride a bike and tie your shoes? You did those things because you had some level of belief in yourself that you could. Otherwise, you would have never even tried. Somewhere along the way, you lost some of your confidence. To overcome this, you have to change the way things occur to you.
The truth is we don’t have control over the thoughts that pop into our heads. For example, if I said to you, “Hey, I’ll give you $1,000 if you do NOT picture a pink elephant in your
head right now.” What did you just envision? It’s the same with negative automatic thoughts. They’re like unwanted guests: You may not be able to control when they pop in, but you can decide when they leave. It’s how we sort and dispose of our negative thoughts that makes or breaks us.
Have a question for Dr. Jen? Email it to AskTheDoc@EstrellaPublishing.com.
Submitted by Jennifer Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D. Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Girl Scouts
Flag Ceremony and Ladybug Release at the Community Garden
Join us on Saturday November 9 at 10 a.m. at the Estrella Community Garden at Presidio for a special event featuring a Flag Ceremony and annual Ladybug Release.
The day begins with a local JROTC, Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corpsunit leading a short educational session on proper flag handling and etiquette. This is a unique opportunity to learn about the respectful care of our national symbol. Additionally, if you have old or worn flags that need proper disposal, bring them with you — the JROTC will guide us through a dignified retirement process.
After the ceremony, we’ll celebrate nature with a delightful Ladybug Release. Ladybugs are natural pest controllers, and by releasing them into the garden, we
help create a healthier, more sustainable environment for our plants.
This family-friendly event is open to all. It’s a wonderful chance to connect with the community, appreciate our traditions, and enjoy a moment of peace and reflection. Bring your loved ones, neighbors, and friends to share in this morning of learning, nature, and community spirit. We look forward to seeing you there!
Submitted by Denna Walker, GO Clubs Troop 2894 Leader
Open Enrollment
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is here, and with it comes a wave of changes that could make this year one of the most challenging yet for beneficiaries. But navigating AEP doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how you can prepare and make the most of this crucial time:
1. Review Your Current Plan
Start by reviewing your Annual Notice of Change letter, which arrives in September. It will outline key changes to your current plan, including costs, doctor, pharmacy networks and other additional benefits. Knowing these changes can help you decide whether your current plan still meets your needs.
2. Compare Your Options
Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans can vary significantly. Use this time to compare plans and assess how they meet your prescription needs, preferred doctor networks, medical facilities and budget. Doing so could save you money and ensure you’re getting the coverage that best fits your health and financial situation.
3.
Use Available Resources
If comparing plans feels overwhelming, there are resources available to help. Platforms like eHealth provide easy-to-use tools that allow you to compare a wide range of plans from top insurance companies, both online and over the phone. According to a recent study, Medicare Advantage enrollees who compared their current Medicare Advantage plan with available 2024 plans using eHealth’s platform could be saving an average of $1,100 per year on medical bills and
prescription drugs with a lower cost plan.
4. Get Help from a Professional - For Free
Licensed insurance agents can provide personalized assistance at no cost to you. They’re knowledgeable about different plans and can help match you with one that suits your needs. An eHealth survey of more than 2,100 Medicare Advantage enrollees conducted in March found that beneficiaries who work with an agent feel more confident in their choice, with 66% feeling “very confident” in their plan selection. And remember, agents are paid the same for similar plan types and there is no obligation to enroll. Their goal is to help you find the best fit for you.
5. Don’t Procrastinate
It’s tempting to delay deciding, but waiting until the last minute can lead to rushed choices that may not be in your best interest. Schedule time early in the AEP period to review your options, consult with an agent if needed, and make a confident decision.
This year, tackle your insurance plan coverage with confidence. To learn more, compare plans and find help from a professional licensed insurance agent and benefits advisor please visit eHealth at www.ehealth.com or call 844-373-9751, TTY 711
EMES
International Committee Evaluates EMES
It happens every five years. A group of evaluators arrives at Estrella Mountain Elementary School (EMES). This year, it was an international group: two from Bogota, Colombia, one from Las Vegas, and one from San Antonio. Over three days, the evaluators met with the entire school community, and then issued recommendations. Why? Because EMES is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. IB was created as an inquiry-based standardized, rigorous, internationally recognized curriculum to serve the children of diplomats, international families, and business people abroad. The program fosters critical thinking and builds problem-solving skills and a healthy appetite for learning and excellence. IB students explore real-world problems across all subject areas (math, language arts, science, social studies, performing arts) and are given opportunities to reflect on their learning and take meaningful action in their communities. The programs are dedicated to all areas of student development – physical, intellectual, emotional and ethical.
Schools don’t just sign up to become part of IB. For more than a year leading up to EMES’s initial IB authorization in 2014, our teachers taught their “pre-IB” curriculum AND engaged in IB professional development, as well as working with their teams to create new IB-oriented teaching units. Earning an IB authorization is a rigorous and demanding process.
Perhaps the most important part of the recent fiveyear evaluation was a reflective process led by Principal Lynzee Booras and IB Coordinators, Heather Hegedus (5th grade) and Joni Sheesley (8th grade), that involved the entire school. The EMES community assessed the implementation of IB standards and practices, then analyzed and reflected on the impacts of its development efforts. They identified factors that contributed to positive outcomes and looked at ways to build on those factors to address existing challenges and grow the IB program at EMES. One of the positive factors cited was the EMES volunteer group, Cougar Community Volunteers. Prospective volunteers, email Suzanne at SuzWold22@gmail.com.
Submitted by Cougar Community Volunteers
Blue Line Painting
The Bug Guy
Turkey Day Terrors: When Pests Crash
Your Phoenix Feast
As Thanksgiving approaches in the West Valley of Phoenix, residents are gearing up for a day of gratitude, family gatherings, and enough food to feed a small army. But while you’re busy basting that bird and whipping up grandma’s secret stuffing recipe, uninvited guests may be plotting their own holiday invasion.
Welcome to the wild world of Thanksgiving pest control, where the battle between man and critter reaches its annual crescendo. In the West Valley, where the desert meets suburbia, our creepy-crawly neighbors are always looking for a reason to party –and your perfectly roasted turkey might as well be a billboard screaming, “All you can eat buffet!”
Local pest control expert, Barry “The Bug Buster” Johnson, has seen it all. “Last Thanksgiving, I got a panicked call from a lady in Goodyear. She’d just pulled her pumpkin pie out of the oven when a family of scorpions emerged from her oven mitts, doing the macarena. Talk about spicing up dessert!”
But it’s not just scorpions getting in on the action. Ants have been known to form conga lines from your backyard to the kitchen, each carrying a microscopic “We’re Thankful for Leftovers” sign. And let’s not forget the rats, who’ve been spotted in homes wearing tiny pilgrim hats and attempting to carve the turkey with their incisors.
Even the birds are getting bold. One Litchfield Park resident reported a flock of pigeons tapping on her window in perfect rhythm to “We Will Rock You,” presumably demanding their share of the corn bread.
So, what’s a West Valley resident to do? Larry suggests a few pre-feast precautions:
1. Inspect your oven for scorpion squatters before preheating.
2. Set up a decoy turkey in the backyard to distract wandering wildlife.
3. Train your dog to bark “gobble gobble” to scare off potential pest invaders.
Remember, folks, in the West Valley, we don’t just give thanks – we defend our feasts with the ferocity of a Phoenix sun in July. So this Thanksgiving, as you gather around the table, raise a glass to family, friends, and the pest control heroes keeping your stuffing safe from six-legged saboteurs. And if all else fails, there’s always next year’s traditional Thanksgiving takeout.
Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, Estrella Resident
Cook with Zona
Maple Bacon Brussel Sprouts
Thanksgiving is a wonderful celebration, filled with traditions that bring families and friends together to enjoy what we love most of all…FOOD! While the star of the feast is undoubtedly the turkey, the side dishes often take a backseat, despite their crucial role in creating a memorable meal. These often-overlooked accompaniments deserve more recognition. This Thanksgiving, we’re going to shift our focus and make our side dishes a star! The combination of maple syrup and bacon is one of the most underrated pairings of all time. Your friends and family will be drooling over these brussel sprouts, so be prepared to forward them this recipe!
If you have any recipes you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25 mins | Total time: 35 mins | Yields: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
8 slices of thick-cut bacon
2 lbs brussel sprouts
⅛ tsp smoked paprika
⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
½ cup dried, unsweetened cranberries
¼ cup chicken stock
¼ cup maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. In a large cast-iron skillet, cook the bacon oven medium-high until crispy, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, rough chop the bacon into chunks.
2. Wash the brussel sprouts, trim the stem, and cut in half lengthwise. Remove any yellowed or blemished outer leaves.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet, stirring well to coat with the bacon grease. Reduce the heat to medium and cook, without stirring, until the sprouts start to brown and caramelize, about 6 minutes. Stir in the salt and cayenne, and continue to cook until the Brussels sprouts are just tender, 6 to 8 minutes more.
4. Stir in the cranberries, chicken stock, and maple syrup. (If you don’t have a big sweet tooth, I recommend adding the maple syrup, little by little.)
5. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring to coat the Brussels sprouts. Add the cooked bacon and stir to combine. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your sweet and spicy Maple Bacon
Brussel Sprouts or tag us on social media
@EstrellaPublishing.
Home Sweet Home
Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, reflect on life’s blessings, and express gratitude. For many, one of the greatest blessings is the ability to call a house “home.” Homeownership, with its sense of stability, comfort, and personal pride, becomes especially meaningful during the holiday season. It’s more than just a roof over our heads; it’s the space where cherished memories are created, especially during holidays like Thanksgiving.
Owning a home provides a unique sense of accomplishment. After navigating the challenges of the real estate market—saving for a down payment, negotiating offers, and securing financing—the end result is something to truly be thankful for. Whether it’s a family home passed down through generations or a first-time purchase, owning a home creates a tangible connection to the future. It’s a place where traditions, like Thanksgiving dinners, can flourish and grow year after year.
Homeowners may also take pride in the financial benefits their investment provides. Over time, homes appreciate in value, contributing to long-term wealth building. Thanksgiving, a time often spent reflecting
on growth and progress, becomes an opportunity to appreciate not only the emotional stability a home offers but also the financial security it represents.
At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge those who may not be as fortunate, particularly those who have lost their homes due to extreme weather events like hurricanes, wildfires, or floods. As natural disasters increase in frequency, many families find themselves displaced during the holidays. While celebrating homeownership, Thanksgiving also offers a moment to extend compassion and support to those rebuilding their lives after such losses, reminding us all of the importance of community and helping others find their way back to a safe, welcoming place they can call home.
In this spirit of reflection, Thanksgiving becomes a time to express gratitude for the sense of belonging that a home provides and to share that sense of warmth with those in need.
Submitted by Tara Rutkowski, Realtor and Estrella Resident
Furry Friends
Autumn Adventures
As November ushers in milder temperatures across Arizona, it is the perfect time for seniors to enjoy outdoor activities with their beloved pets. This season offers a welcome respite from the scorching heat, allowing both you and your furry companions to savor the beauty of the desert landscape. With daytime temperatures often hovering in the comfortable 70’s, November presents an ideal opportunity to explore Arizona’s numerous pet-friendly parks and trails. Places like Papago Park in Phoenix offer scenic walks suitable for both older adults and pets. Remember to start with shorter outings and gradually increase duration as you and your pet build stamina.
Safety First
While the weather is milder, it is crucial to remain vigilant about your pet’s well-being.
Hydration
Arizona’s dry climate necessitates consistent hydration. Carry water for both you and your pet, even on shorter walks.
Paw Protection
Although cooler, some surfaces can still retain heat. Check pavement temperature with your hand before walking your dog.
Wildlife Awareness
Be cautious of desert wildlife. Rattlesnakes, though less active, may still be encountered. Keep pets on leashes and stick to clear paths.
Indoor Comfort
As evenings cool down, ensure your home remains comfortable for your pets. Provide cozy bedding in the form of warm, soft spots in draft-free areas. Older pets may experience more joint stiffness in cooler weather, so consider pet-safe heating pads or consult your vet about supplements.
Seasonal Considerations
With Thanksgiving approaching, be mindful of pet safety. Many holiday foods can be harmful to pets. Create a safe space for your pet during gatherings. Pets may also shed their summer coats, so regular brushing can help manage shedding and promote bonding. Additionally, Cooler weather might mean more indoor time. Engage your pet with puzzle toys or gentle play sessions to maintain mental acuity.
By embracing Arizona’s pleasant November weather and following these guidelines, you and your pet can enjoy a season filled with comfort, adventure, and companionship.
School Bond
“How are the schools?”
It’s the most common question I’m asked as a father and REALTOR® in two of America’s fastest-growing cities. After 15 years of living and working in the West Valley, I’ve seen firsthand that homes in areas with rigorous education standards, up-to-date technology, and safe schools stay on the market for less time and command higher resale values.
Goodyear and Buckeye, Arizona, are experiencing rapid growth. The influx of people, jobs, and new developments is extraordinary. But as our cities expand, we can’t risk our children’s education being held back by crowded classrooms and outdated facilities.
That’s why I support the Buckeye Union High School District bond. This $155 million bond, with no increase in homeowner tax rates, would fund essential improvements over the next decade: - Enhanced security at all schools - Laptops for students
- Facility upgrades, including AC - Expanded student transportation
Most importantly, it would provide funds for constructing a much-needed new high school campus.
For homeowners, this matters. Buyers are drawn to neighborhoods with quality schools, not only for education but for added benefits—lower crime, familyfriendly amenities like parks, trails, and community centers.
As a dedicated resident, small business owner, husband, and father of two public school students, I urge you to support the Buckeye Union High School District bond.
Strong schools enrich the lives of all residents.
Martin C. Sears PC, Licensed REALTOR®, Real Estate Branch Owner & Officer Manager
Purchasing my first home ignited a passion for real estate that has only grown over time. As both a Realtor and a proud Estrella resident, I’m committed to helping my neighbors achieve the best results, whether they’re buying or selling My goal is to ensure you get the most value from your transaction while helping maintain the beauty and rewards of living in our wonderful community
I’m not just a Real Estate Expert I’m also your Neighbor!
Sports Desk
The Heisman Blind Spot
In the glimmering world of college football, one award stands above the rest: The Heisman Trophy. Given yearly to the most outstanding player in NCAA football, the Heisman is meant to recognize excellence across all positions. Yet, a closer look at its recipients reveals a startling bias – quarterbacks have become the de facto favorite, which often overshadows equally deserving players in other roles.
The Heisman has been awarded 87 times. Of those, 35 have gone to quarterbacks, including 18 of the last 22 winners. This means that since the year 2000, the award has gone to a separate position 3 times. This favoritism raises questions about the award’s true representation of overall excellence in the sport. The reason behind this quarterback centric approach is multi-faceted. Quarterbacks often accumulate the most impressive statistical records, throwing thousands of yards and dozens of touchdowns each season. They
are the focal point of most offensive plays, making their contributions highly visible. Moreover, the media tends to spotlight quarterbacks making them the face of their teams and, by extension, top candidate for the individual honors.
However, this focus on quarterbacks overlooks the invaluable contributions of other positions. Explosive running backs, game-changing wide receivers, and dominant defensive players can profoundly impact their team’s success. An example of this is star Running Back on Boise State, Ashton Jeanty, who might as well be called “Mr. 1st down” after averaging 10.8 yards per carry thus far in the season. Or take the case of Ndamukong Suh in 2009. The Nebraska defensive tackle had one of the most dominant seasons in college football history, recording 12 sacks and 24 tackles for loss. Despite single handedly altering opposing teams game plans, Suh finished fourth in Heisman voting behind 3 (you guessed it) quarterbacks.
The Heisman’s QB bias not only diminishes the accomplishments of non-quarterback players but also perpetuates a narrow view of football excellence. It sends a message that only those under center can truly be considered the “most outstanding” players in college football. Until such changes are implemented, the Heisman Trophy risks becoming little more than a “best quarterback” award – very different from the comprehensive recognition of excellence it was intended to be.
Submitted by Ross Uretsky
Puzzle Time
This samurai sudoku puzzle is a great way to engage the brain and help develop logic skills. To solve this Samurai puzzle use standard sudoku rules for every 9x9 grid: each digit from 1 to 9 can only appear once in every row, column and 3x3 box. Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
