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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine
January 2025
January 2025 1
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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 All contents © 2010-present Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Some content is provided by Brandpointe. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the content of contributing writers and advertisers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion. Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.
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January 2025 3
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January 2025
From Me To You... In the age of Instagram-or-it-didn’t-happen, I’ve become an accidental photographic rebel. Picture this (pun absolutely intended): I’ve just returned from a trip with a grand total of five photographs. FIVE. In a world where most travelers return home with enough digital memories to crash a cloud storage server, I’m looking at a collection that would make Marie Kondo weep with joy. I realize that may seem tragic to some of you but I like to think that I was so present and engaged during my holiday that pictures were not necessary. Not once did I interrupt the moment to ensure my followers get visual proof of my adventures. Of course it could have been the fact that my friend of over 25 years and I were gabbing away so much we didn’t have time to stop and snap a memento. I am not the first in my family to follow this path. There was a famous (in our family) holiday we took to France when I was a teenager. We spent a month driving to famous sites, traipsing around countless cathedrals, and soaking up all the culture you could want as a bored 14 year old. Only to find that my Dad had forgotten to load the film in his camera.
“I thought I got a lot of value in that roll!” he is quoted as saying when he discovered the problem, turning a potential photographic disaster into a legendary family joke. We’ve been laughing about it for years - a memory far more vivid than any perfectly staged vacation snapshot. If I have trouble picturing my recent holiday all I have to do is think of the sunburn I got on my shoulders. My mind is flooded with memories of an afternoon spent laughing and enjoying myself so much that I forgot to reapply my sunscreen. So here’s to the unphotographed adventures, the memories stored in our hearts rather than our camera rolls. Sometimes, the best vacation souvenirs are the stories we’ll tell - not the pictures we’ll scroll through.
Catherine Uretsky Editor, Up The Hill Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541
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January 2025 5
Money Matters Now that the calendar has flipped, it’s time for some New Year’s resolutions. You could decide you’re going to exercise more, lose weight, learn a new skill — the possibilities are almost limitless. This year, why not add a few financial resolutions to your list? Here are a few to consider: • Reduce your debts. It may be easier said than done, but if you can cut down on your debt load, you’ll increase your cash flow and have more money available to invest for your future. So, look for ways to lower your expenses and spending. You might find it helpful to use one of the budgeting apps available online. • Build an emergency fund. It’s generally a good idea to maintain an emergency fund containing up to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Without such a fund, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments to pay for short-term needs, such as an expensive auto or home repair. • Keep funding your non-retirement goals. Your traditional IRA and 401(k) are good ways to save for retirement — but you likely have other goals, too, and you’ll need to save and invest for them. So, for example, if you want your grandchildren to go to
college or receive some other type of post-secondary training, you might want to invest in a tax-advantaged 529 education savings plan. And if you have shortterm goals, such as saving for a wedding or taking an overseas vacation, you might want to put some money away in a liquid account. For a short-term goal, you don’t necessarily need to invest aggressively for growth — you just want the money to be there for you when you need it. • Review your estate plans. If you haven’t already created your estate plans, you may want to do so in 2025. If you have already drawn up estate plans, you may want to review them, especially if you’ve recently experienced changes in your life and family situation, such as marriage, remarriage or the addition of a new child. Because estate planning can be complex, you’ll want to work with a qualified legal professional. You may not be able to tackle all these resolutions in 2025. But by addressing as many of them as you can, you may find that, by the end of the year, you have made progress toward your goals and set yourself on a positive course for all the years to come. Submitted by Brian Polk, Financial Advisor, of Edward Jones
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January 2025
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January 2025 7
Green Thumb January in Arizona presents unique gardening opportunities, balancing the state’s mild winter with strategic preparation for the upcoming growing season. Unlike many regions, Arizona gardeners can actively work in their landscapes during this cooler month, making it an ideal time for planning and selective planting.
Cool-season vegetables thrive in Arizona’s January climate: Now is the perfect time to plant leafy greens like kale, spinach, lettuce, and Swiss chard. Root vegetables including carrots, radishes, and beets also do exceptionally well. These crops appreciate the cooler temperatures and can withstand light frost, making them resilient choices for winter gardening. Soil preparation is crucial during January: The cooler temperatures make it an excellent time to amend garden beds. Incorporate organic compost to improve soil structure and nutrient content. Given Arizona’s typically alkaline soils, consider adding some sulfur to balance pH levels, particularly for acid-loving plants. Citrus trees demand special winter care: While they’re relatively hardy, protect younger trees from potential frost by covering them when temperatures dip below 32°F. Use frost cloth or old bed sheets, avoiding plastic coverings that can trap moisture and cause more damage. Native plants shine in January: Species like brittlebush, desert marigold, and various cacti require minimal maintenance during this time. These plants have adapted to Arizona’s unique climate and can withstand winter conditions with little intervention. 8 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine
Irrigation requires careful management: Despite cooler temperatures, Arizona’s dry climate necessitates occasional watering. Water deeply but less frequently, focusing on the root zones of plants. Morning watering is ideal, allowing moisture to absorb before potential cold nights. Pest management continues even in winter: Check plants for signs of infestation, removing any visible pests manually. The cooler temperatures reduce pest activity, making this an excellent time for preventative treatments and inspections.
Ornamental gardens benefit from selective pruning and cleanup: Remove dead annuals, trim back perennials, and prepare beds for spring planting. Consider adding winter-blooming plants like cyclamen or primrose to add color to your landscape. Remember, Arizona’s microclimates vary significantly. Local elevation and specific location can dramatically impact gardening strategies, so always consult local extension services for hyper-local advice.
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January 2025
EMES
EMES Hosts Science Olympiad Invitational On a recent Saturday in November, EMES (Estrella Mountain Elementary School) hosted 6 school teams for a Science Olympiad invitational. Science Olympiad is a STEM-oriented team activity requiring solid commitment, preparation, coaching and practice. EMES students in grades 6 through 8 are eligible to join the team and compete at events. Invitationals can be viewed as warm-up tournaments: scores are less important; students are free to try out different subject categories; new members accustom themselves to competing; and teams iron out any kinks or confusion that could block full participation in timed events. At the November invitational, EMES PTO volunteers offered concessions - snacks, drinks and pizza - for attendees. Other volunteers managed classrooms where students from participating teams competed in different subject areas ranging from “Anatomy & Physiology” to “Chiropterology” (the study of bats) to “Potions & Poisons” and “Wind Power”. Competitors must work hard to learn all aspects of their subject areas because they will get different questions and problems at each tournament they attend. Volunteers, Garry Trachsel and Camille TrachselSmith, managed the 50-minute “Experimental Design” event as 11 teams conducted experiments.
Sierra Vista LANDSCAPES
The father-daughter volunteer team helped with materials and made sure that the experiments were conducted safely. At the beginning of each “Experimental Design” session, teams were given a topic and they had 50 minutes to design an experiment with the materials supplied to them. Joni Sheesley, EMES 8th Grade science and math teacher is the statewide Science Olympiad “Experimental Design” event supervisor. One of the most popular events is “Write it Do It” in which competing two-person teams receive the unassembled parts of a structure. One team member writes the technical instructions for building the structure and the other team member builds the structure according to their partner’s instructions. The statewide supervisor for the “Write It Do It” event is Jeff Daugherty, EMES 8th Grade English Language Arts and algebra teacher. Submitted by Cougar Community Volunteers, an independent organization, which has supported students & staff at EMES since 2013. The administration of Liberty Elementary School District did not write or approve the publication of this article.
Find us on Facebook @Sierra Vista Landscape
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January 2025 11
The Bug Guy
Embracing New Beginnings: A Fresh Start for Your Home and Heart
inspect our personal foundations, patch up weak spots, and create an environment where growth and happiness can thrive.
As the calendar turns and a new year dawns, we’re presented with a beautiful opportunity for renewal and hope. Just like we clear out the old to make way for the new in our lives, there’s something symbolically powerful about cleaning house—both metaphorically and quite literally.
This year, approach your goals like a professional pest management expert. Be strategic, patient, and thorough. Preventative care is always better than reactive solutions. Whether you’re targeting mice in the attic or obstacles in your personal development, the principle remains the same: consistent, careful effort leads to remarkable results.
Consider the humble act of home maintenance as a metaphor for personal growth. Just as we meticulously seal entry points to prevent unwanted guests from disrupting our living spaces, we can also protect our mental and emotional landscapes from negative influences. Those tiny cracks where doubt and discouragement might creep in? It’s time to seal them shut with determination and positivity. Pest control isn’t just about keeping insects at bay—it’s about creating a sanctuary of peace and cleanliness. Similarly, the new year offers us a chance to identify and remove the “pests” in our lives: bad habits, toxic relationships, self-limiting beliefs. We can methodically
As we step into this fresh chapter, remember that every small action counts. Just like how sealing a tiny hole can prevent an entire infestation, each positive choice you make can transform your entire year. Embrace the potential of new beginnings, arm yourself with hope, and get ready to create something beautiful. Here’s to a year of clean spaces, clear minds, and unlimited potential! Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, Estrella Resident
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January 2025
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January 2025 13
Community Cares Mrs. Booras, EMES Principal Lynzee Booras is our Estrella Mountain Elementary School (EMES) Principal. Nearly 6 years ago, as I remember it, she was one of four finalists in a rigorous hiring process. The finalists demonstrated key skills for the selection committee - the LESD Superintendent, the retiring EMES Principal, and IB (International Baccalaureate) Coordinators. The hiring choice was made based on the skills portion plus final interviews that included EMES stakeholders - teachers, parents, PTO officers and volunteers. Ms. Booras was the overwhelming choice of the stakeholders – and the selection committee and district administration. Her leadership at EMES continues to keep all of the stakeholders focused on what is best for our students, staff, families and community. (Cougar Community Volunteers)
Mrs. Booras also has deep knowledge of planning and instruction, and supports our staff in refining their instruction on a daily basis in order to make sure that we are meeting the needs of all of our students. I have never worked with a more effective principal than Mrs. Booras, and we have the academic data to support her effectiveness. What the data won’t show is how her heart/ student/people-first approach has built a culture where students and staff can grow and thrive. (EMES staff member)
Submitted by Cougar Community Volunteers, an independent organization, supporting students & staff at EMES since 2013. The administration of Liberty Elementary School District did not write or approve the publication of this article.
Mrs. Booras always says she leads from the heart, and after being a staff member at EMES, I have found that her actions consistently match her words. The main thing that any parent or educator wants in a principal is someone who cares. Someone who cares about everyone in the community, and is there for them whenever she’s needed. Her heart is what drives her to hold teachers and students to high expectations, and her heart is what drives her as she works side by side with all stakeholders to ensure our students are receiving the best level of education possible in our environment. The result is a familyoriented environment where students show up ready to learn. 14 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine
January 2025
Cook with Zona Loaded Potato Soup
With the weather getting… slightly cooler I decided it’s officially time to start making soups and stew! A fan favorite soup in our house is Loaded Potato Soup. How can you go wrong with potatoes, bacon, cheese, and garlic? Whether you’re curled up at home or hosting a cozy dinner, this soup recipe will surely become one of your favorites too! If you have a recipe you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail.com to be featured in the magazine! Prep time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total time: 55 mins Ingredients 6 large potatoes, peeled and cubed 16 oz bacon, bite-sized pieces 4 Tbsp unsalted butter 1 med onion, finely chopped 4 garlic cloves, minced ¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk 2 1/2 cups chicken broth 1 cup mild or sharp cheddar cheese, shredded ¾ cup sour cream green onions, to serve Salt and pepper, to taste Steps 1. Place sliced potatoes into a stockpot and completely cover with 1” of water. Season with ½ tsp salt and cook 10-15 minutes or until potatoes pierce easily with a knife then drain. 2. Meanwhile, saute bacon in a Dutch oven until crispy and then transfer to a plate, reserving 1 Tbsp bacon grease in the pot. 3. Add 4 Tbsp butter and chopped onions then saute until tender. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant. 4. Quickly whisk in the flour then slowly add 2 1/2 cups milk and 2 1/2 cups broth, whisking constantly. Bring the mixture to a soft boil. 5. Add drained potatoes and season soup with 1 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper or season to taste. 6. Stir in 3/4 cup sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar, and half of your cooked bacon (reserving the rest for serving). Bring to a boil, remove from heat, and serve with your favorite toppings. 7. Enjoy! We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your Creamy, Loaded Potato Soup or tag us on social media @ EstrellaPublishing.
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January 2025 15
Home Sweet Home In 2025, home design is all about creating meaningful, sustainable, and personalized spaces that enhance both functionality and beauty. Whether you’re planning a complete renovation or a simple refresh, here are some of the top projected trends that are set to redefine interior spaces: 1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Materials Sustainability continues to dominate the conversation in home design. Expect to see a rise in materials like reclaimed wood, bamboo, cork, and recycled glass. These materials are not only environmentally friendly but also bring a sense of warmth and authenticity to interiors. Homeowners are increasingly drawn to furniture and decor that tell a story, with upcycled and vintage pieces gaining popularity. 2. Bold Colors and Patterns After years of neutral tones, 2025 is set to embrace color with open arms. Rich, jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep plum will add depth and sophistication to living spaces. Complementing these bold colors will be playful patterns inspired by nature, such as botanical prints and abstract designs. 3. Biophilic Design Bringing the outdoors inside will remain a key trend. Incorporating natural elements like indoor plants, green walls, and large windows that maximize natural
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light will create serene and rejuvenating environments. This connection to nature enhances well-being and adds a calming aesthetic to the home. 4. Tech-Integrated Living Spaces Smart home technology is becoming seamlessly integrated into interior design. Invisible speakers, smart lighting systems, and voice-activated controls will ensure that homes are as functional as they are stylish. Expect multi-functional furniture equipped with tech features to accommodate the growing demand for home offices and entertainment hubs. 5. Texture Over Flat Finishes Textured walls, tactile fabrics, and layered materials will be at the forefront of design. From velvet upholstery to woven rugs and 3D wall treatments, texture will add depth and character to interiors, making spaces feel more dynamic and inviting. 6. Personalized Spaces Customization will be key in 2025. Homeowners are moving away from cookie-cutter designs in favor of spaces that reflect their unique personalities. This trend includes bespoke furniture, art, and decor tailored to individual tastes and lifestyles. Submitted by Tara Rutkowski, Realtor and Estrella Resident
January 2025
Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine
January 2025 17
School Supplies The Estrella Realtor Networking Group (ENRG) is kicking of its “First Annual Estrella Elementary Schools Supply Drive” this month to support students at Estrella Mountain and Westar Elementary Schools!
January marks the midpoint of the school year for our local K-8 schools. While parents provided a full pencil pouch at the beginning of the year, many are unaware that their kids’ daily school supplies now consist of four naked half-crayons, an empty glue stick, one pencil with no eraser and a small “treasure box” toy the teacher awarded the student for good behavior.
The ERNG, established in 2014, consists of 35+ real estate professionals who live and work in Estrella and CantaMia. These ultimate ambassadors even pronounce it correctly, “eh STRAAAY yaa!” ERNG agents are from all different, competing, local companies, bonded by their love of Estrella, and commitment to serve the community. If you are an Estrella resident and REALTOR® interested in joining the ERNG, please email EstrellaNetworking@gmail.com for more information.
To restock students, ERNG will be collecting needed school supplies at two drive-thru, drop-off events: • Saturday, January 25th 8:00am-12:00pm: Estrella Mountain Elementary School – 10301 S San Miguel Ave • Saturday February 1st 8:00am-12:00pm: Westar Elementary School – Westar 17777 W Westar Dr Bring your items or scan the QR codes to donate directly through Amazon (bring your receipt to the drive-thru) and receive a raffle ticket. Keep an eye out for flyers and social media this month with raffle prize details and additional ways to donate! Over the years, the Estrella Realtor Networking Group has organized community events such as the Estrella Parkway Spring Clean, Lakeside Block Party, Lakeside Movie Nights, and Socktober. They’ve awarded graduating seniors of Estrella Foothills High School scholarships, supported the Salvation Army, and founded the Estrella Community Garden. Servicing the West Valley for 20 years!
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Sage Advice Pool Shopping
I figured since this time of year is when many folks begin shopping for a pool, and since I am retiring in my 32nd year of designing and building pools, I would impart some advice and thoughts to those potential pool shoppers out there. When I began my career in 1992, pools were much simpler. Most were either a play pool with a deeper middle, or diving pools. They came with two feet of Koodeck around, a robotic cleaner, a sand filter, an electric light, entry steps and maybe a bench. Upgrades included volleyball sleeves, an auto water fill, fiber optic lights, an adjustable time clock, and possibly a water feature. Prices started just under $10k and averaged about $13K. In our current market, pools come in a wide variety of shapes with a dozen or more decking and interior options and are operated with wifi technology. Designing a pool has evolved in to creating an entire backyard living space. And the average cost can easily approach $100K! My first bit of advice would be to select three companies to interview. Before selecting the three, first check with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors to assure a company is properly licensed. The ROC site will indicate the number of complaints, type of license and let you know how long a company has been in business. Talk to a couple folks who used the company in the past couple years, a company’s reputation for dealing with issues is important. Beyond selecting a company, an even more critical item will be the experience of the designer you are
meeting with. A qualified designer should consider your lifestyle, how that will be incorporated into the project. Certainly, your budget should be discussed, but I caution against being “penny-wise and pound-foolish”. You want to design the project to accommodate your lifestyle, but also keep resale in mind. There are many, many options as to how a pool can be built. Some companies have a set way to do things, certain equipment they always use, while others allow for a wider array of choices. I have often used the analogy of me doing a painting using the same brushes, canvass and paints as one of the old masters. Because we are using the same “equipment” certainly does not mean the finished painting will have the same value! A pool built with better construction techniques can reduce operating and repair costs while also increasing resale value. Finally, I strongly encourage folks to include the more recent types of cleaning, filtration and chemical reduction systems as well as more technologically advanced operating and control systems. You can still build pools with pool vacs, time clocks, back-wash filters and the like, but they are what I refer to as functionally obsolete. While they still work, they are so “yesterday”, like a three channel tube TV or garage door you open and close manually! And if they are obsolete today, what will they be when you go to sell the home in a few years! Submitted by Estrella resident, Mike Roberts If you have a story you would like to see in print, email it to us at info@estrellapublishing.com
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January 2025 19
I Resolve To... In the realm of personal growth, sensible resolutions are the unsung heroes of self-improvement. The key is to approach personal development with wisdom, patience, and a genuine commitment to sustainable change. The most sensible resolutions share common characteristics: they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). They acknowledge human limitations while still encouraging personal growth. They recognize that change is a journey, not a sudden transformation. Instead of declaring dramatic, sweeping transformations, focus on modest, achievable objectives that align with your current lifestyle and capabilities. For instance, rather than vowing to become a marathon runner overnight, consider setting a goal of increasing your daily physical activity by taking a 15-minute walk or choosing stairs over elevators. Financial sensibility is another critical area for meaningful resolutions. Instead of promising to save an unrealistic amount of money, start with something more attainable. Perhaps commit to saving a small, consistent percentage of your income each month or
creating a simple budget that tracks your spending. Health-related resolutions benefit immensely from a measured approach. Rather than eliminating entire food groups or committing to an extreme diet, focus on incremental nutritional improvements. This might mean adding one extra serving of vegetables to your daily meals, drinking more water, or introducing moderate portion control. Mental health is equally important—consider dedicating just ten minutes each day to mindfulness, meditation, or simply unplugging from digital devices. Professional growth requires a strategic mindset. Instead of setting impossibly broad goals like “get a promotion,” break down your career aspirations into specific, actionable steps. This could involve learning one new skill, networking with one professional contact monthly, or dedicating an hour each week to professional development reading or online courses. Relationship resolutions should prioritize quality over quantity, focus on small, meaningful improvements. This might mean being more present during conversations, expressing gratitude more frequently, or setting aside dedicated time for meaningful connections with family and friends. Ultimately, sensible resolutions are about creating lasting habits, not achieving perfection. They embrace the understanding that small, consistent steps lead to significant long-term changes. By setting realistic expectations and approaching personal growth with compassion and patience, we can actually achieve meaningful progress.The beauty of sensible resolutions lies in their simplicity— they respect our humanity while gently nudging us toward becoming slightly better versions of ourselves.
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January 2025
urchasing my first home ignited a passion for real P 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.
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January 2025 21
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January 2025
Community Garden Kickstart Your Gardening Season:
Seed and Plant Swap, Monarch Butterfly 101, and Easy Seed Starting Class
Start the new year with a burst of gardening inspiration! On January 11th at 10:00 AM, join us at the Estrella Community Garden located at the Presidio Resident Club for an exciting event featuring a Seed and Plant Swap, Monarch Butterfly 101, and an Easy Seed Starting Class. Bring your extra seeds or plants and swap them with fellow gardeners. It’s a great way to try new varieties and meet others who share your passion for gardening. Whether you
have flowers, herbs, or veggies to trade, this swap is a fantastic opportunity to diversify your garden. Learn all about monarch butterflies—one of nature’s most beautiful and important pollinators. This session will cover their life cycle, migration patterns, and how to create a butterfly-friendly garden. With the right plants and practices, you can support monarchs in your own backyard. Starting seeds doesn’t have to be intimidating! This class will teach you simple, effective methods for growing seeds indoors, helping you prepare for a bountiful spring garden. Learn tips for selecting the best seeds, creating an optimal growing environment, and ensuring healthy plants ready for transplanting. Don’t miss this chance to learn, swap, and connect with the community. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone. Come for the seeds, stay for the butterflies! See you at the garden! For more information follow us on Facebook, Estrella Community Garden Goodyear page. Denna Walker GO Clubs Troop 2894 Leader Garden Committee Member
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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 Difficulty: Easy
Monday, 25th November 2024
4 2 5
5 3
1
1 9
8
4 9
6 4
9 2
8
5 2
3
7 3
6
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2
1
9 5
7 8
3
4 1
8
1
6
2 3
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6 2 5
8 1
7
7 4
3 2
8
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7
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4
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2
5 1
2 6
3 7
3
7
6 3
1
5 7
9
1 4
6 1
8 1
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1 8
9
8 3
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2
9 9
8
1
3 7
4
6
9
9
6 2
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7
8 8
7 3
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4 7
2
9
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1
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9
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4
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9 9
8
1 4
9 5
2 9
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4 7
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7 8
6 www.samurai-sudoku.com
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January 2025
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January 2025 25
Business Directory
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January 2025
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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine
January 2025 27
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