Up The Hill

Up The Hill A magazine for Estrella & CantaMia residents From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors

Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 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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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 3

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February 2025

From Me To You...

As I get older, I find that the challenges of today’s technology get harder and harder to navigate. For example, I recently tried to log on to a website, only to be stopped short by the seemingly obvious and simple question, “Are you human?”

In the past I have breezed past such queries with a basic check of a box, or by picking three pictures that included a traffic light. Not today. The obstacle presented to me involved a riddle that harkened back to an SAT test.

It began innocently enough. “Click on any images that resemble the example.” Hah, I can do that! But what was I looking at? There appeared to be two subjects, however, figuring out what those things were was not going to be easy. After a few minutes it occurred to me that I could be looking at a guitar and some sort of bird. Perhaps an owl? OK, I was getting the hang of it.

On to the second part of the riddle. Pick any images that contained a guitar and/or an owl. I tried looking directly at the nine possibilities, but nothing there seemed remotely bird-like, or musical for that matter.

Then I thought that maybe it was one of those 3-D

images, where you have to unfocus your eyes a bit and let things swim into view. Nope, that just gave me a headache and made me feel a tad foolish. In despair I squinted a little and tipped my head to the right. Hold on, was that the curve of a guitar? It was possible I suppose... Well, what did I have to lose? I chose three of the pictures that contained that vague shape and, closing my eyes, pressed ‘enter’. I am not entirely sure if I was correct, or if the website just took pity on me, but it granted me access — only to place me immediately into a queue, as there were too many people trying to log in at the same time!

At this point I had lost the will to navigate any more prompts or intelligence tests and I closed my computer in frustration. I spent the rest of the afternoon with a cool compress on my eyes, and a soothing libation at my elbow, wondering when I had officially become too old to understand new technology.

Catherine Uretsky Editor, Up The Hill Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 5

Money Matters You can put more into your 401(k) this year!

Once you retire, you’ll likely need to draw on a variety of financial sources — and one of the most important ones may be your 401(k). And for 2025, you can put even more money into your plan than ever. With a traditional 401(k), you contribute pre-tax dollars, which can lower your taxable income, and your money can grow tax deferred. If you have a Roth 401(k) option, you can contribute after-tax dollars, which aren’t deductible, but your eventual withdrawals will be tax-free if you’ve had your account at least five years and you’re at least 59½.

For either a traditional or Roth 401(k), as well as similar plans such as a 457(b) (for government employees) or a 403(b) (for educators and employees of some nonprofit groups), the contribution limit has increased by $500 for 2025, to $23,500. If you’re 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $7,500, for a total of $31,000. And under the SECURE 2.0 legislation, if you are between 60 and 63, you have a higher catch-up contribution — $11,250, instead of $7,500, for a total of $34,750.

If you can afford to contribute the full amount to your 401(k) or similar plan, consider doing so. Of course, not everyone is in that position. If you’re a younger worker, you may well have other financial obligations, such as paying off student loans. And even if you’ve been in the workforce for a while, you may be putting away money for other things — such as your children’s education — as well as your own retirement. But even if you can’t “max out” on your 401(k), try to contribute at least enough to earn your employer’s matching contribution, if one is offered.

Regardless of how much you contribute to your 401(k), consider these suggestions on managing the money within your plan: • Create a portfolio that fits your risk tolerance.

• Adjust your portfolio as needed.

By contributing what you can afford to your 401(k), and by carefully managing the investments within your plan, you can help maximize the value of this powerful retirement savings vehicle — and give yourself a key asset to help you enjoy your retirement years.

Submitted by Brian Polk, Financial Advisor, of Edward Jones

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February 2025

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

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February 2025 7

18 YEARS OF ESTRELLA EXPERIENCE WORKING FOR YOU!

Estrella Art Gallery The Estrella Art Gallery Committee oversees the Presidio Residence Club’s Art Gallery by curating and installing four unique shows each year. Shows have included works from photographers, sculptors, ceramicists, and painters from each corner of Estrella.

The current show at the gallery is entitled “ARTIST CHOICE” featuring 36 artworks by 25 artists.

The Committee oversees the entry and jurying processes and opens each show. CCMC and lifeinestrella. com are pivotal in creating the accompanying brochures, advertising events in social media, and co-hosting a “Meet the Artist” reception each season, where the entire community is invited to spend a fun evening enjoying the art, conversation, music, and complimentary hors d’oeuvres while mingling with our featured artists, neighbors, and friends “Up the Hill.”

Last spring, the Committee initiated a scholarship program for graduating seniors of Estrella Foothills High School’s art department. This scholarship program supports young Estrella artists who wish to pursue the arts as a vocation or avocation. Three students met the criteria in 2024 and were each financially awarded at the EFHS Annual Senior Awards Presentation. In 2025, the committee is hoping to expand scholarship awareness and attract more senior applicants.

Students may submit applications to Ms. Cathy Fox in the EFHS Guidance Department. Each student is required to provide an essay, transcript, and letters of recommendation. The deadline this year is March 31, 2025, so we encourage interested students to contact the guidance office as soon as possible.

Of course, the Estrella Art Gallery Committee gratefully welcomes any and all contributors interested in supporting the arts and young artists of Estrella. The Committee’s scholarship liaison is Lynette Keating, who may be contacted by email at blkzt5@gmail.com or by text at (630) 913-0815.

The Estrella Art Gallery Committee greatly anticipates awarding the next generation of scholarships to the scholar/artists of the EFHS Class of 2025.

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February 2025

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 9

10 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025

EMES

What’s Up at Estrella Mountain Elementary School?

Volunteers are an integral part of Read Live lab sessions in the morning and afternoon.

Many of us loved riding our bikes when we were young. How did we develop that skill? A few of us got along without training wheels, but most of us used them to good advantage. We practiced and practiced with our training wheels until we “got it” and graduated to that two-wheeler. If you were one of the kids who needed those training wheels for a little longer time, the other kids may have seemed to race ahead of you and you felt left behind. But, you persisted, and soon caught up to your siblings and friends. Riding a bike is a lifelong skill.

In addition to Read Live lab sessions, EMES has volunteer opportunities helping students arrive at and leave school safely, helping out in the cafeteria and assisting in a special education classroom. The great administration, staff, and students, and positive, caring vibes on this campus have kept some people volunteering here for as long as 11 years.

If you are interested in volunteering at EMES, check out Cougar Community Volunteers by contacting Suzanne Wold at 602-451-4748 or SuzWold22@gmail.com.

Learning to read is similar to learning to ride a bike. Some of us “get it” quickly, and some of us need our training wheels for a longer time. The key is practice – the right kind of practice at the right time. That’s what our Read Live lab provides. It gives students online targeted individual instructional time that helps them increase their reading fluency and comprehension. With increased fluency and comprehension comes confidence and the ability to move from “learning to read” to “reading to learn”.

Reading, like biking, is a lifelong skill.

Cougar Community Volunteers, an independent organization, has supported students & staff at EMES since 2013. The administration of Liberty Elementary School District neither wrote this article nor approved its publication.

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

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The Bug Guy

A Fresh Start: February Brings Natural Pest Control to Phoenix

loving pests like cockroaches and termites. This environmental advantage, combined with basic home maintenance like sealing entry points and proper ventilation, creates an effective first line of defense against common household pests.

As winter’s mild grip loosens on the Phoenix Valley, February emerges as a pivotal month for sustainable pest management. The moderate temperatures, • February’s moderate climate encourages beneficial typically ranging from 45°F to 72°F, create ideal insects like ladybugs and praying mantises to become conditions for natural pest control methods that benefit more active. These natural predators help control both homeowners and the environment. aphids and other garden pests, maintaining a healthy • Desert birds, particularly house finches and cactus ecological balance without chemical pesticides. wrens, return in greater numbers during February, For Phoenix residents, February represents an naturally controlling insect populations. These feathered allies consume thousands of mosquito larvae opportunity to establish sustainable pest management and other problematic insects daily, reducing the need practices that will protect their homes throughout the year. By working with nature’s cycles and embracing for chemical interventions. biological control methods, homeowners can maintain • Local gardeners find February optimal for planting pest-free environments while contributing to the pest-deterrent herbs like rosemary, sage, and native valley’s delicate desert ecosystem. This approach not wildflowers. These plants not only beautify yards but only ensures immediate pest control but also promotes also naturally repel unwanted insects while attracting long-term environmental health in our unique desert beneficial ones. The cooler temperatures allow these community. plants to establish strong root systems before summer’s Submitted by Larry Cash, intensity. of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, • The month’s typically low humidity also works Estrella Resident in residents’ favor, naturally deterring moisture-

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February 2025

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 13

Green Thumb The Estrella Community Garden is growing so much more than vegetables at our garden, we are truly growing community! On January 11th, Deborah Huyer, Community Garden Committee member and owner of Lakeside Grill, Cafe Bebida and the Cantina taught us how to use water bottles for seed starting, learned about The Migration of the Monarch Butterfly from Committee member and resident expert, Angela Bergelt. We also invited residents to bring clippings and plants for our swap, which brought both landscaping and indoor plants galore!

As Committee Chair, it was heartwarming to mingle and speak with attendees to learn where they moved here from, answer questions regarding composting, hardening of plants from indoor to outdoor, watch older residents interact with our Go Club Girls and sing the ABC’s with our youngest Gardener (4) on the microphone!

14 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

The purpose of our garden was and is not, simply to provide a place to plant vegetables, it is to build community. I was reminded of this when I spoke to an older gentleman originally from Georgia and asked, “What brings you to our garden today?” and his response was simply, “find other people, like me, that enjoy gardening”. Purpose fulfilled.

Join us next month on February 22nd, 10am for our next event. We will host Jackrabbit Nursery, who donated all of the seeds used in our Seed Starting activity for a Q & A, show you how to use Kitchen scraps to grow your produce and teach you how to plant those seed starters!

Submitted by Allyson Knappenberger, Community Garden Committee Chair

February 2025

Cook with Zona Chocolate Lava Cake

If you’ve ever been on a certain cruise line, where they serve a chocolaty dessert consisting of a chocolate cake with a gooey center, served with vanilla ice cream; you know exactly what I’m talking about!

With Valentine’s Day coming up, I know some couples might scramble last minute to make a reservation or think of heartfelt gifts for their loved ones. Personally, I’d rather have chocolate cake at home over a fancy dinner, any night! Involve the whole family while baking these sweet individual cakes to feel even more love in your kitchen! Happy Valentine’s Day! I love you all!

Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 14 mins Total Time: 24 mins Serves: 4

Ingredients: 1 cup Dark Chocolate Chips 1 ½ sticks of butter 4 Eggs 6 Tbsp Sugar 4 Tbsp Flour Steps: 1. Melt the chocolate and butter.

2. Mix eggs and sugar in a separate bowl, whisk for a few minutes, then add flour.

3. Add the egg mix to the melted chocolate and mix.

4. Pour the mix into 4 individual greased ramekins.

5. Bake directly in the oven at 390°F for 14 minutes 6. Serve with ice cream and ENJOY! 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!

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 15

Home Sweet Home Show Your Home Some Love This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for loved ones—it’s also the perfect time to show your home some extra care. After all, your home is where love truly grows! Here are five simple yet impactful ways to treat your home this season.

1. Declutter and Refresh Start by giving your home the gift of space.

Decluttering not only clears your countertops and closets but also clears your mind. Donate items you no longer use and organize what remains. Finish with a thorough cleaning, and your home will feel as rejuvenated as you do after a spa day.

2. Add a Pop of Color Nothing says love like vibrant colors. Swap out neutral throw pillows for bold reds or soft pinks, or add a cozy heart-shaped rug. Fresh flowers in a vase can brighten up your dining table or kitchen counter. These small touches add warmth and a festive feel to your space.

3. Upgrade Your Lighting Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood.

Replace harsh white bulbs with warm, dimmable options to create a soothing ambiance. You can also add string lights or candles for a romantic glow.

4. Pamper Your Bathroom Transform your bathroom into a mini retreat by upgrading towels, adding scented candles, or even splurging on a luxurious bath bomb. A spa-like bathroom is an everyday indulgence you’ll appreciate long after Valentine’s Day. 5. Invest in Comfort From a plush throw blanket to a high-quality mattress topper, small comfort upgrades make a big difference.

Layering textures like soft velvet, cozy knits, or smooth satin can elevate any room.

Valentine’s Day is about celebrating what you love, and your home deserves to be on that list. By taking these steps, you’ll not only create a more beautiful space but also a more inviting and relaxing environment for you and your loved ones. After all, home is where the heart is—so show it some extra love this February!

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 17

Winter Health Winter Respiratory and Stomach Viruses: What You Need to Know and How to Stay Healthy

As respiratory and gastrointestinal infections continue to affect communities across the United States, understanding how to prevent and manage these common viruses is crucial. Three notable viral infections - Norovirus, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and Influenza - each present distinct challenges to public health. Norovirus, often called the “stomach flu,” is highly contagious and causes severe gastrointestinal symptoms. The virus spreads through contaminated food, surfaces, or close contact with infected individuals. RSV primarily affects the respiratory system and can be particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals. Influenza, a seasonal respiratory illness, can range from mild to severe and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets.

Prevention strategies for all three viruses share common elements. Frequent handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is crucial, especially before handling food and after using the bathroom. For Norovirus specifically, alcohol-based hand sanitizers are less effective, making thorough handwashing essential. To prevent RSV and flu transmission, avoid touching your face, maintain physical distance from sick individuals, and consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces during peak seasons.

If you contract any of these viruses, proper management is key. For Norovirus, focus on preventing dehydration by drinking plenty of clear fluids to replace those lost through vomiting and diarrhea.

Small, frequent sips are better tolerated than large amounts at once. With RSV and flu, rest is crucial, and over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms like fever and congestion. Create a humid environment using a humidifier to ease respiratory symptoms.

18 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

Maintaining a clean environment is essential for preventing virus spread. Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and electronic devices. For Norovirus specifically, use bleach-based cleaners as other disinfectants may not be effective. When caring for someone who is sick, wear disposable gloves and wash contaminated items thoroughly.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, inability to keep liquids down for 24 hours, or signs of dehydration. For high-risk individuals, including young children, elderly adults, pregnant women, or those with underlying health conditions, early medical consultation is recommended. These viruses typically resolve within a few days to a week with proper care.

However, you should stay home until at least 24 hours after symptoms subside to prevent spreading the infection to others.

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February 2025

On Our Cover Drums Alive Fitness Class Every Tuesday at 10:00 AM Starpointe Residents Club

Suzy Dee is Starpointe’s Drums Alive instructor.

A certified ACE Exercise group fitness instructor since 1983, Suzy has been part of Starpointe since its inception. Over the years, she has taught various forms of exercise, including high-impact aerobics, step aerobics, Pilates apparatus classes, and now the popular Drums Alive Fitness Class.

Drums Alive combines simple dance and fitness movements with exercise balls and drumsticks. This high-energy, low-impact class can be done standing or seated, making it accessible to all fitness levels.

As a brain-based program, it engages both sides of the brain, creating new neurological pathways.

It’s fitness that feels fun!

Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 19

Indoor Fun 4 Kids

materials like cardboard boxes and paper tubes. Kids can create puppet shows, design spaceships, or make their own board games. Consider covering a table with butcher paper to create a giant drawing surface.

When cooler weather or rainy days keep children indoors, there are countless engaging activities to keep them entertained and learning.

Transform your living space into an adventure zone with a blanket fort building challenge - chairs, sheets, and clothespins become the materials for creating magical hideouts where kids can read, tell stories, or play pretend.

Get creative in the kitchen by involving children in baking or simple cooking projects. Making cookies, decorating cupcakes, or assembling fruit faces on plates combines fun with practical skills.

Just be prepared for some cleanup afterward! For a less messy kitchen activity, set up a pretend restaurant where kids can write menus, take orders, and serve plastic food.

Indoor scavenger hunts provide excitement and movement. Create clues leading to hidden treasures throughout the house, or make themed hunts where kids search for items of specific colors or starting with certain letters. This activity combines problem-solving with physical activity.

Art projects offer endless possibilities. Set up a craft station with paper, markers, glue, and recyclable

Science experiments using household items captivate curious minds. Make slime with glue and borax, create static electricity with balloons, or watch crystals grow in a glass.

These activities teach while entertaining.

Movement games help burn energy indoors. Create an obstacle course using pillows, tape lines for balance beams, and boxes to crawl through. Dance parties with silly movement challenges keep kids active, while yoga sessions with animal poses can help calm energetic children.

For quieter moments, set up indoor bowling with plastic bottles, practice card games that teach counting and strategy, or create a reading nook with cozy pillows and favorite books. Remember that simple activities often spark the most imagination and engagement, and a day spent indoors does not have to be wasted.

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February 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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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

Realtor® 602.403.4136 HelpMeRhonda.Watson@gmail.com RhondaWatsonAZ.com

February 2025 21

22 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025

Craft Corner Getting Started with Crochet You’ll need: A size H/8 (5mm) crochet hook Medium-weight yarn in a light color Scissors Stitch markers (optional) Step 1: The Slip Knot Create a loop by crossing the yarn over itself, leaving a tail about 6 inches long. Insert your hook through the loop and pull to tighten, but not too tight - you’ll need to work into this first stitch.

Step 2: Holding the Hook and Yarn Hold your hook like a pencil, using your thumb and index finger to grip the flat part. The yarn should flow over your non-dominant hand’s index finger, with your other fingers controlling tension.

Step 3: Making Chain Stitches Wrap the yarn over your hook (yarn over) Catch the yarn with your hook Pull it through the loop on your hook Each completed chain looks like a small “V”

Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

Step 4: Single Crochet Stitch Insert hook into the second chain from hook Yarn over Pull through chain (2 loops on hook) Yarn over again Pull through both loops Making A Simple Square Practice making a 10x10 stitch square: Chain 11 stitches Single crochet in each chain across Chain 1, turn Repeat until you have 10 rows Remember: Crochet is a journey of continuous improvement. Your tension and stitch consistency will naturally improve with practice.

February 2025 23

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

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24 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025

Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 25

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26 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

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Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025 27

28 Estrella Publishing - Up The Hill magazine

February 2025