Up The Hill

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.

From Me To You...

‘Thank you.’ It is a simple phrase, two words that can make such a difference. I feel that in this life we can and should voice those two words more often. The person who holds a door for you, or bags your groceries should be acknowledged; the driver who lets you turn in front of them deserves a wave of appreciation and the customer service rep who helped you get your email working warrants recognition. When you thank someone, you acknowledge their effort, kindness, or assistance. This fosters positive feelings between people and strengthens bonds, whether they are personal or professional.

A culture of gratitude can transform environments, whether it’s at home, work, or within a community. In passing along your gratitude you can start a trickle down effect of happiness and make the world a better place. I know it sounds altruistic and grandiose, but consider how easily your own mood affects your actions. When we are content we are more likely to extend that grace to others, to hold our tongue when we would otherwise snap at a loved one or decide not to take that last cookie at work.

When individuals experience gratitude, they are more inclined to pay it forward and engage in acts

of kindness themselves which creates a ripple effect of positivity and generosity. Expressing gratitude has also been linked to increased levels of happiness and satisfaction. It shifts focus away from negativity and cultivates a mindset of abundance and positivity. Being appreciated makes people feel valued and respected by others. When you express gratitude, it can boost someone’s self-esteem and morale, motivating them to continue their helpful or positive behavior.

In that vein I want to say ‘Thank You’ to all of you. As I meet people and talk about the magazines, many of you have told me that you enjoy reading my words. It means so much to know that I am not writing in an abyss, that some of what I say resonates and sometimes helps people. Those two simple words have made my day better many times so I encourage you to try it for yourself. You never know the difference it could make in someone else’s day!

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

One Step Beyond

One Step Beyond Empowers Adults Who

Have Intellectual Disabilities

Believing her daughter, Dylan, should have post-high school opportunities to contribute to the community and achieve her personal goals, Mimi Rogers—a former teacher—went into action. In 2003, she started One Step Beyond, Inc. (OSBI), with a vision of providing innovative programs that empower adults who have intellectual disabilities, like her daughter, to be independent, to seek and maintain employment and achieve greater social participation in their communities.

Today, OSBI is the Valley’s largest provider of advanced education programs for adults who have intellectual and cognitive disabilities, serving more than 700 individuals at four Phoenix Metro locations.”

The amenities at OSBI are unmatched and enable the organization to provide one-of-a-kind programs unavailable anywhere else. Culinary training programs offer food-industry training with an emphasis on customer service, healthy dietary planning, food preparation, and proper sanitation skills that equip participants with the necessary skills to seek employment in the food industry. The culinary program also includes a catering business.

Life skills programs help members strengthen independent living skills, with an emphasis on money management, functional literacy, social skills, and safe

community access.

Employment programs provide training and volunteer opportunities for self-reliance that lead to competitive or supported employment.

Recreation and fine arts programs provide music, art, dance and fitness with an emphasis on personal wellness.

OSBI also has the first and only campus-based day training program that has a special needs hockey team, The One Step Coyotes.

OSBI partners with its members and their families to identify and provide innovative, individualized, and comprehensive programs. If a desired program isn’t currently offered, the team finds a way to make it happen.

One Step Beyond staff is comprised of professionals who have made it their life’s mission to better the lives of adults who have intellectual disabilities.

For more information, visit https://osbi.org

The Bug Guy

Termites are a significant pest concern in the Phoenix Valley, where the warm climate provides an ideal environment for their proliferation. These insects are known for their wood-consuming habits, which can lead to substantial damage to homes and structures if left unchecked.

In the region, the most common termite species encountered are the Subterranean termites, specifically the native Heterotermes aureus, and the invasive Desert Subterranean termite, Reticulitermes tibialis. These termites live in underground colonies and build distinctive mud tubes to provide moisture while they travel to food sources above ground. These tubes are often the first visible sign of a termite infestation.

Homeowners should be vigilant for other signs of termites, like wood that sounds hollow when tapped, cracked or distorted paint, and termite droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds. Given the elusive nature of termites, professional inspections are recommended, especially since Phoenix’s environment allows termites to remain active yearround. Preventative measures include reducing soil-to-wood contact around the home, maintaining

proper ventilation to reduce humidity, and regularly inspecting foundations for signs of mud tubes. Termite control typically involves bait systems, soil treatments with termiticides, and direct wood treatments. Quick action and professional management are crucial to preventing the extensive damage these insects can inflict.

Scorpions in the Phoenix Valley are a common sight, especially during the warmer months. Among the most prevalent species is the Arizona bark scorpion, notorious for its venomous sting. Thriving in the arid desert climate, these arachnids have adapted to the extreme temperatures of the region. Scorpions are nocturnal hunters, using the cover of darkness to ambush their prey. In the Phoenix Valley, they typically feed on insects, spiders, and even other scorpions. Their diet is crucial for controlling pest populations, making them an essential part of the local ecosystem. The anatomy of a scorpion is distinct; they possess a segmented tail that arches over the back, ending with a stinger. Their pincers, called pedipalps, are used to grasp prey and for defense. Scorpions also have eight legs and two eyes, although some species have additional eyes along the top of their heads.

Residents in Phoenix should be aware that these creatures often seek shelter in cool, moist areas, which means they can sometimes be found in homes. Preventive measures include reducing/removing food sources (other pests), sealing cracks, using yellow outdoor lights that attract fewer insects, and ensuring that moisture isn’t accumulating in or around the dwelling. While scorpion stings can be painful and sometimes result in severe reactions, fatalities are rare. It’s crucial for those living in or visiting Phoenix to understand the behavior of scorpions and take preventative measures to minimize encounters with these fascinating but potentially dangerous arachnids.

Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control, Estrella resident

Ask Dr. Jen

Why Can’t I Say No?

“I struggle so much with telling people no. I’m pulled in so many different directions that I’m forgetting things and letting people down, not to mention exhausted! Why do I do this?” - Joan B.

One of the best and most valuable lessons the Army taught me was that I was dispensable. You may be thinking, “What? Who wants to be unnecessary?” We all should sometimes because it means the world won’t stop turning when we set boundaries, say no or have to be away. Trust me, dispensability can be a good thing!

Let’s take work. Maybe you feel like you have to take care of everything at the office. Or things will fall apart if you’re not always at the clinic. Or things will only get done right in the shop if you do them. Unless you’re a 2 x 4, the walls won’t collapse if you’re not there. There are exceptions, but generally the place operated just fine before you got there and will be fine long after you’re gone. Ironically, not taking time off can lead to burnout, which decreases your efficiency and productivity.

If you struggle with this idea, ask yourself:

• Why do I put such pressure on myself?

• Why do I need everyone to think I’m so great, the hardest worker around, the one who takes care of everything?

• Why is it so important for me to be invaluable or indispensable?

The answers to these questions are many, but the common thread is self-esteem:

• Some people need to feel needed. Their worth is based on what they do for others.

• Some people have too much ego tied up in their work or can’t let go of self-importance.

• Others get too much of their identity from their work. Without it, they’re not sure who they are; they worry that they won’t be seen as important or necessary.

Low self-esteem results in seeking validation from outside sources. It’s time to validate yourself. Say no. Go on vacation. Stay home if you’re sick. The walls will still be standing when you get back. And, as my junior high English teacher says, they might have even been painted!

Have a question for Dr. Jen? Email it to AskTheDoc@ EstrellaPublishing.com.

DISCLAIMER: Material is for informational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for evaluation or treatment by a licensed professional. Material is copyrighted and may only be reproduced with written permission of Dr. Bellingrodt.

Diamonds in the Rough

Helping Others Together (HOT) Community Foundation will be hosting their Signature Event, the Diamonds in the Rough Golf Tournament on May 2, and the Party with a Purpose on May 3. Both events will take place at Verrado Golf Club in Buckeye, AZ. Party with a Purpose tickets are still available as are Ball Drop tickets, where up to $3,000 will be awarded to a winner who’s purchased golf ball is closest to (or in) the hole when dropped by Buckeye’s Fire Fighters! In addition to the ball drop, the party will feature appetizers, cocktails, live music by The Rusted Nuts, and fun contests. There will also be plenty of fun and unique auction items to win.

Founded in 2019, HOT is a 100% volunteer run organization, a registered 501(c)(3) Arizona nonprofit organization (EIN 84-3079860) and an Arizona Qualified Charitable Organization (QCO 22342). HOT’s Mission is to Bring people together to provide help and hope to struggling children and their families in the West Valley.

The Diamonds in the Rough Golf Tournament and Party with a Purpose are HOT’s primary fundraising events. There are thousands of children attending schools in the West Valley who live below the poverty

line. Through HOT’s Sugar Plum Fairies program, they can provide help and hope to some of these struggling children by providing a magical Christmas experience for them and their families. During the 2023 holiday season, HOT selected 242 children and provided wrapped gifts of clothing, shoes, coats, hygiene essentials, toys for the children, and grocery gift cards for the parents. The goal for 2024 is to select between 275-300 children as recipients of the Sugar Plum Fairies program.

For more information on these events, Helping Others Together (HOT) Community Foundation or to purchase tickets for the Party with a Purpose or Ball Drop, simply scan the QR codes below.

Home Sweet Home

Broken Appliance?

Here’s How to Determine Whether to Repair or Replace It

No one wants their appliances to break. Unfortunately, no appliance lasts forever, so when your fridge, dishwasher, or oven inevitably breaks down, you’ll have to ask yourself an important question: Should I repair it, or replace it?

The answer to that question is… it depends. So what, exactly, is the best way to determine whether to repair or replace a broken appliance?

A recent article from Realtor.com outlined questions to ask yourself when a home appliance breaks to determine whether to go down the repair or the replacement route, including:

How old is the appliance? How old the appliance is plays a huge part in whether it’s more advantageous to repair or replace. If the appliance is 7 or more years old, it’s best to replace it. If it’s newer, however, whether to repair or replace will depend on how new it is (generally, the newer the appliance, the more likely it would benefit from a repair) and how often it’s used

(if the appliance is used frequently it will need to be replaced earlier than an appliance that’s used once in a while).

What will the repair cost? Another important factor to weigh is how much the repair will cost. Generally, if the repair will cost more than half the price of replacing the appliance, it’s better to replace; if the cost is less than half of the new appliance’s price, it’s probably best to repair.

Would a replacement appliance save money in the long run? Many newer appliances, particularly Energy Star-certified appliances, are more energy efficient than older models, and can significantly bring down energy costs. If your appliance breaks, replacing it with an Energy Star-certified model could be the best bet in the long run, even if it would be more affordable on the front-end to repair it. For example, an Energy Star-certified washing machine uses about 75 percent less water and 70 percent less energy than a 20-year-old standard washer.

Submitted by Tara Rutkowski, Realtor and Estrella Resident

School C.H.A.M.P.S.

Celebrating Liberty Elementary School District CHAMPS

Estrella Mountain Elementary School (EMES) hosted the 4th annual Festival of the Arts, a Liberty Elementary School District (LESD) celebration of CHAMPS - Computer Science, Health, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Spanish curriculum. Funded by voter-approved override dollars, these classes are essential in the development of well-rounded students.

Musical performances included “Finding Nemo Jr.” (Las Brisas Elementary), “Wonka Kids” (EMES), a multi-genre medley (Westar Chorus), and movie and pop songs (district-wide 2nd grade chorus and flash-mob). The Liberty Elementary Flag Team also performed. The All-District Band was joined in their performance by members of the Estrella Foothills High School Band, many of whom are LESD alumni.

All of the LESD schools showcased K – 8 student artwork collections, including ceramics, 3-D art, paintings, and photography. Art teachers explained projects – and bragged about their student artists. The finale was an immersive under-sea gallery featuring sea

creatures (by all EMES grades) glowing under black lights, accompanied by an underwater sound track. EMES Spanish students created and displayed two types of Mexican folk-art: colorful papier mache alebrijes (ah-leh-bree-hes), imaginary folk-art animals; and foil versions of hojalatas (oh-hah-lah-tahs), pressed tin decorative panels in bright colors.

Rainbow Valley students composed original music for interactive keyboard stations, and computer sciences students displayed coding projects.

EMES welcomes community members at evening events – and as daytime volunteers. Current opportunities are “Walk to Read”, lunch duty and helping students safely arrive at and leave campus. Get more info from Kellie Zimmerman, volunteer coordinator, at kellie.zimmerman@gmail.com.

Submitted by Monica Landaiche, EMES music teacher, and Cougar Community Volunteer

Make a Connection

Teen Lifeline’s Call to Action on National Telephone Day - 4/25

In a world where connection is key, the power of a caring message cannot be overstated. Research from the CDC underscores the importance of strong, positive relationships in preventing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. With the spring months often seeing a rise in suicides, the end of the school year can be particularly challenging for teens. Stressors like finals, graduations, and farewells to friends can weigh heavily on their minds.

“Please use your phone for its best possible purpose on April 25th and throughout the next two months – to check in with a teen and see how they are doing. It could save a life.” Nikki Kontz, clinical director at Teen Lifeline, asks you. But the call to action extends beyond adults; Kontz encourages teens to reach out to their peers as well. In a world where isolation can

feel overwhelming, knowing that someone cares can make all the difference. Teen Lifeline’s impact is evident in the numbers: nearly 48,000 calls and texts were received in 2023, a 10.6% increase from the previous year.

On National Telephone Day, Kontz recommends reaching out with simple, heartfelt messages. From “Just checking in” to “I love you! How are you today?” every message carries the potential to brighten a teen’s day and remind them they’re not alone.

As we navigate the complexities of adolescence, it’s essential for adults to be vigilant for warning signs of suicide. From changes in behavior to extreme mood swings, recognizing these signs can be lifesaving. Kontz emphasizes the importance of direct communication, assuring that asking a teen about suicidal thoughts will not plant the idea but rather grant them permission to speak freely.

For those in immediate danger, swift action is crucial. Whether it’s calling 911 or reaching out to Teen Lifeline, prioritizing safety is paramount.

As we approach National Telephone Day, let’s remember the power of connection. A simple call or text has the potential to save a life, offering hope and support in times of darkness. Together, let’s make every ring of the phone a lifeline of love and compassion.

For more information and resources, visit www.TeenLifeline.org.

Yum Yum

3 Ingredient Sugar Cookies

This recipe is so simple and foolproof, you can whip up these sugar cookies anytime. It’s almost criminal how easy these cookies are to make, but nobody is getting arrested! While vanilla extract and sprinkles are not needed for this recipe to work, the addition of the two make it fun for the whole family! * This recipe creates slightly crunchy sugar cookies, but they should not be dry or crumbly. For a softer cookie, bake for a minute less and keep an eye on them.

Ingredients:

1 cup unsalted butter

⅔ cup + 3 tbsp granulated sugar

2 cups + 1 tbsp all purpose flour

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but recommended) Sprinkles (optional, but recommended - and fun!)

Steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F. Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper

2. In a medium bowl, beat together butter and ⅔ cup sugar until combined (it will be a little gritty - that’s okay.)

3. Add flour and blend well (add vanilla, if using)

4. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.

5. Gently roll the balls in the remaining 3 tbsp of sugar until lightly coated; transfer to a baking sheet 2 inches apart.

6. With the bottom of a cup, press down on the balls to flatten. Add some sprinkles (if using) and lightly press down again just so they stick. They will look pretty small in circumference, but they will spread to normal sized cookies.

7. Bake for 15 mins or until just slightly golden around the edges and on the bottom.

8. Remove from the oven and let rest on the baking sheets for at least 10-15 mins (don’t skip this step!) Then eat or transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

ENJOY!

We love to see our neighbors’ delicious creations, so send us a picture of your gorgeous cookies or tag us on social media @ EstrellaPublishing.

Samurai Sudoku

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, 11th March 2024

Spring Crossword

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