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February 2018 1
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February 2018
Mary Ann Evans Your Neighborhood Residential Specialist
602-526-3709
info@MaryAnnEvans.com See all MLS listings at www.MaryAnnEvans1.com
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Living, Working & Selling in PebbleCreek PebbleCreek Statistical Market Analysis 231 Homes Sold from 01/01/2017 to 12/31/2017
Sold # Listings 231
List Volume
Sold Volume
List Price
82,371,668 80,244,949
Low Avg High
Sold Price
200,000 185,000 356,587 347,381 789,000 750,000
Sale/List Approx List Price Per Sold Price Per Price SQFT Approx SQFT Approx SQFT 0.87 0.98 1.04
1,136 2,006 3,612
81.67 178.87 292.35
Agent Days On Market
Cumulative Day On Market
0 81 534
0 93 527
81.67 174.40 278.43
251 Homes Sold from 01/01/2016 to 12/31/2016 Sold # Listings 251
List Volume
Sold Volume
List Price
84,192,155 81,707,842
Low Avg High
Sold Price
188,000 179,500 335,427 325,529 715,600 695,000
Sale/List Approx List Price Per Sold Price Per Price SQFT Approx SQFT Approx SQFT 0.87 0.97 1.02
1,136 1,923 3,401
117.05 175.29 281.38
Agent Days On Market
Cumulative Day On Market
0 79 489
0 82 484
113.26 170.13 278.14
80 PebbleCreek Homes on the Market in MLS on January 10, 2018 Market Reports indicate MLS sales report of existing homes in PebbleCreek from 01/01/2017 to 12/31/2017 with a comparison to sales from 01/01/2016 to 12/31/2016. 2017 PebbleCreek sales continued the 6 year upward trend of the year over year pattern of price increases in the home values since the bottom of the Maricopa County real estate market in 2011. However the number of units sold and sales revenue volume in 2017 slipped from the 2016 numbers.
If you are selling your home, CALL ME NOW for information about my Listing Discount, Staging & a FREE Market Analysis of your property. I look forward to working with you - Refer to this AD to learn about Discounts and Incentives
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February 2018 3
Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com All contents Š 2010-2018 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. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the views of contributing writers 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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February 2018
From Me To You...
Welcome to the February edition of Viva!
Every month I sit down at my computer to write this piece and I usually have an idea of what I will say. A general theme, some lines thought out in my head. Then I let it fly. Sometimes it is pretty close to my original plan, sometimes I go off on a tangent. The majority of my articles have an example or a snippit from my life, usually involving my children. Let’s face it, kids do say the darnedest things! Growing up in England, my childhood was mostly bucolic. I had my moments, trials and tribulations you could say, but it was pretty nice all in all. Except for Sunday mornings. Yes, church. Not because the pews were uncomfortable - they were. Not because the singing was painful - it was, my mother is tone deaf but refuses to let that stop her from belting out the hymns. Not because the world was beckoning from outside, begging me to play and be free - of course it was. My problem was that my father was the vicar, or minister. He was great at it. His voice rang with conviction, he was kind and gentle with his flock and always sang beautifully. The problem was his sermons. To get inspiration he looked at his life, and in particular his children. Whatever stupid thing we had done that week was sure to be brought up as a humorous anecdote that he could use to teach the lesson of the day. It was mortifying. We lived with these people and as well meaning as they were, they would always chuckle over our misadventures and talk
to us about them later.
One time I remember Dad told the story of our one and only attempt at clock maintenance. He had on old clock that I believe he found at a yard sale, intending to wind it up and put it on the mantelpiece. It must have needed more than winding so he gave it to us to see what we could learn from it. As the story goes we gave it back to him pretty quickly in pieces. Many pieces. It filled a large cardboard box that we found somewhere. I don’t remember the meaning behind this sermon, perhaps that there is more inside us that is apparent on the surface, or not to judge the outside of people as what is inside is so much more. Or don’t give your children a clock to play with. What ever it was I remember squirming on my pew as the congregation chuckled along. Now I find myself on the other end of the story. Remembering my childhood I try to be sensitive to my children’s feelings but let’s face it, they will most likely never read this, and as 3 out of 4 are now grown with their own lives they might like to hear these stories. It does, however, remind me of a TV show I used to watch. Perhaps you did too. Here is one of my favorite quotes from Friends that seems appropriate in this situation: “Oh my God. I’ve become my father. I’ve been trying so hard not to become my mother, I didn’t see this coming.” — Rachel Green, The One With Phoebe’s Cookies Catherine Uretsky Editor, Viva magazine catherine@estrellapartners.com 623-594-9283
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On Our Cover There are two options for terminal congestive heart patients - a heart transplant or an LVAD (Left ventricular assist device). Heart transplants are virtually impossible for patients who are over 70 years of age to obtain due to American insurance & hospital restrictions. The heartmate II is an electric titanium pump the size of a small pear, with ruby bearings & a driveline which extends through the chest wall to the outside of the body. The system is powered by external lithium batteries or a power cord plugged into the wall. Thoratec’s Heartmate LVAD System is now an approved destination treatment for cardiac patients who have no other options for survival. It offers terminal patients an opportunity for extending their lives. Many LVAD patients are able to return to work, play golf, fish, travel & resume active lives.
and drove him down the coast highway to UCSD in San Diego where Medtronic electrical pacing devices were being pioneered by Dr. Greg Feld. Jack survived 3 surgeries over 3 days and is pacemaker dependent with each beat of his heart being driven by Medtronic’s pacing devices and defibrillators. He was in the test program for Coreg for several years at Scripps Hospital in LaJolla, Ca
His heart started failing again 2009. He was in critical condition when Mary Ann loaded him on a stretcher and this time flew him to Thailand for cardiac stem cell treatment in a test program of Dr Suprachai, a pioneer in cardiology stem cell research. Dr Suprachai sent 2 pints of his blood to an Israeli stem cell laboratory where his own stem cells were developed and then implanted into the damaged portions of his heart. The PebbleCreek resident Jack Evans had a sudden heart treatment was miraculously successful and gave Jack attack following a bout with the flu in 1998. His Kaiser several more good years. His case was presented by all doctors in Portland told his family he would not survive, 3 of his doctors at the International Cardiology World they did not have the equipment to save him. His wife Conference. Mary Ann bought an SUV, loaded him on a stretcher In June 2017 Jack learned his congestive heart failure had reached the stage that his last option for survival was to add another mechanical support system to his failing heart since he is too old to qualify for a heart transplant. The other choice was to go home to hospice care to soon experience systemic organ failure. Jack wrestled with the decision. LVAD surgery is an arduous open heart surgery and afterward he would be truly a bionic man, dependent on external batteries and electrical support. Jack has no fear of death, he has strong Christian faith & has been through near death experiences.
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February 2018
he might still have some quality time to spend with them and they weren’t ready to let him go. Jack had the LVAD surgery in July at Scripps and returned to PebbleCreek in October. He is no longer has to use an oxygen machine and his blood pressure is normal although he no longer has a pulse. He wears a battery pack and his Heartmate controller. In December he received his 6th new Medtronic’s defibrillator at Banner Good Samaritan Hospital and is now at home where he continues to recover. His goal is to complete cardiac rehab, drive on a road trip to go fishing this summer in Durango. He has not been able to visit family in Durango or his daughter in Reno for several years due to the altitude. Now it should not be a problem. Jack’s care is now with the Banner Hospital LVAD team. The PebbleCreek Fire Department and Emergency staff have now become involved with emergency treatment and transporting patients with LVAD equipment. Jack’s wife Mary Ann and daughter Briar are certified in the care & management of his driveline site. Jack carries his battery pack and controller in a camera bag waist pack. He also has the option of wearing a vest with However his children, family and friends urged him pockets for the batteries or using a back pack. He is to consider that his mind and other organs were still looking forward to having the opportunity to enjoy the healthy – if his heart function could be supplemented, PebbleCreek activities again.
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February 2018 7
Hearing Aids Being an informed health care consumer is hard work. There is information everywhere. But how do you sift through it and make sense of it all? And how do you know what is reliable and what isn’t? Sorting through the noise when buying hearing aids is no exception.
In the past several months, there has been significant media coverage and social media discussion about the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017, which will make certain types of hearing aids available over the counter in the next several years. At the same time, there are many advertisements about devices called Personal Sound Amplification Products (PSAPs) - which are not hearing aids and are not designed to treat hearing loss adding to the confusion. To help consumers cut through the clutter, the Better Hearing Institute (BHI) has pulled together six essential facts for people with hearing loss who are considering the purchase of hearing aids. 1) Addressing hearing loss promptly and appropriately is important for health and quality of life. Research shows that hearing loss is linked to cognitive decline and dementia, depression, an increased risk of falls and hospitalization, and greater health care costs. 2) Hearing loss is not a simple mechanical issue and cannot be remedied as easily as buying a pair of reader glasses at the grocery store. Hearing loss is a complex sensory loss. It involves brain function and frequency losses specific to the individual. Human hearing involves a multifaceted interplay between specific parts of the ears and brain. For this reason, hearing aids - which are designed specifically to compensate for hearing loss - must be cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure safety and efficacy.
trouble hearing. This gives the wearer the greatest benefit and ensures that the level of amplification is appropriate across the entire frequency spectrum. Follow-up hearing aid adjustments, along with training to help consumers adjust to amplification and re-learn how to hear and process sounds they had been missing. 4) Personal sound amplifiers (PSAPs) are not hearing aids and are not cleared by the FDA to treat hearing loss. Consumers need to be careful not to confuse hearing aids with PSAPs, which simply turn up the volume - sometimes to dangerously high decibel levels - regardless of the individual’s specific hearing needs. Over-amplifying in this way may put the consumer at risk of greater hearing damage. 5) Seeing a hearing care professional is the best safety net for proper diagnosis and treatment. Going to a hearing care professional helps ensure that any underlying medical issue behind a hearing loss is identified and addressed. It also helps ensure that the person’s hearing loss is safely and effectively treated. Audiologists and hearing aid specialists are expressly trained in all aspects of hearing aids and amplification, and they are state-licensed. Many work in practices with ENT doctors. They have the most appropriate and accurate equipment to give a precise read of an individual’s current hearing level. 6) Currently, hearing aids are only sold by licensed hearing care professionals. The way hearing aids are sold, however, will change in a few years due to the Over-the-Counter Hearing Aid Act of 2017, which was signed into law in August 2017. Nevertheless, the complex nature of hearing loss will not change.
BHI urges consumers with hearing loss to remain encouraged. Most people with hearing loss can benefit from custom-fitted and programmed hearing aids. In 3) Hearing aids need to be custom-fitted and programmed fact, 91 percent of people who purchased hearing aids specifically for the individual so they correctly in the last year say they are happy with their purchase. address those specific frequencies the individual has trouble hearing. The beauty of authentic hearing aids For information on types of hearing loss, visit http:// is that they’re tailored - through personalized fitting, www.betterhearing.org/news/heres-what-you-needprogramming and follow-up adjustments - to correctly know-about-different-types-hearing-loss. address those specific frequencies the individual has
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February 2018
The Weirdness of Lint
Belly button lint is a mystery. Belly buttons are smooth, as far I’ve been able to determine. How does fabric fibers get scraped off and lodged into this midriff indentation? It’s somewhat annoying. Especially forgetting to check prior to wearing a two-piece bathing suit. I am NOT speaking from experience, only casual research. While I have no doubt someone with a government grant will cure the belly button lint problem, it’s just one example of many little bits of reality no one wants to discuss openly.
Another one is checkout lines at the store. You know. When you’re in a hurry, you’re always in the slowest lane. You stand somewhat patiently waiting checkout. Meanwhile, the next lane over is moving visibly faster. So you jump to that lane, which immediately slows and the previous one goes to warp speed. Too many chips and not enough dip or too much dip and not enough chips. The amount of milk verses remaining cereal. I won’t cause any anxiety with the hot dogs to hot dog buns package count ratios. It’s another piece of reality that involves math. I don’t want to subject you to any more math than Life already throws at you. The balance of peanut butter to jelly, thankfully, is irrelevant. You’re okay as long
as you have some of either. The only bad PBJ is not having one.
We put up with the minor irritations because they are small compared to the other issues in life. An instructor I had a long time ago gave a life lesson on how to determine levels of importance when faced with dilemmas. She based her comparative scale on real life situations: a hole in your sock on the low end and nuclear war at the other. Belly button lint would be even lower on the scale than a hole in a sock because the sock has to be mended or replaced. Lint can be fixed easy-peasy with a flick of a finger. Obviously, the examples I used aren’t at nuclear war level unless you’re completely out of food, which is a problem. It’s possible the weird things are the Universe playing a prank on us. You’re looking for your keys or some other object. You look everywhere and can’t find it. You go back to the first place you searched and suddenly it’s there. How did you miss it the first time? Or, did the Universe put it back when you weren’t looking? Not everything in the Universe will make sense to us, but it’s how the Universe tries to keep balance. Life is too serious too often. So, the Universe throws little things at us as a reminder that the unexpected is part of life, too. John Safin, Goodyear Chamer of Commerce
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February 2018 11
Home Sweet Home As we move through the different stages in our lives, our housing needs change too. The home you were excited to move into in your 30s might not be ideal for those now nearing retirement.
According to the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, between 2015 and 2035, the number of people over the age of 75 living alone will nearly double from 6.9 million to 13.4 million. Being prepared for retirement and aging is important, so we’re going to take a closer look at the specific housing features that would most benefit those who are looking to downsize or find that perfect home to “age in.” 1. Walk-in showers Installing a walk-in bathtub or large shower is a good idea for ease and safety. Having extra room to move is not only aging-friendly, but a timeless trend that is easy to maintain. Clayton, one of America’s largest homebuilders, features optional walk-in showers with benches that are available in many of their homes. This is a feature that’s great at any age.
problem after problem, look for a newly constructed home. Not only will you have fewer maintenance issues, but you can design a flexible floor plan that fits your lifestyle. 5. A customizable floor plan The features listed so far are part of what is commonly known as age-in-place design. These home features work for people of all ages, but are designed so you can age into them. In addition, make sure the home you purchase is single-story and fits the lifestyle you want for your future.
2. Wide doors and hallways Spacious doors and wide hallways do the double duty of As you grow older, you realize there is no one, perfect making your home look great while providing enough dream home. Rather, there are different dream homes space to maneuver a wheelchair or walker through if for different stages of your life. needed. 3. Open floor plans A home design trend that is perfect for any homeowner age is an open floor plan. But for boomers, an open floor plan is more than just an aesthetic feature. Having wide spaces that allow you to move around is essential to maintaining your independence as you grow older. It also helps add more natural light and is ideal when gathering with family and friends. 4. Low maintenance Fixing up an older home with good bones might look fun on TV, but it’s not something you will want to deal with in your retirement. Rather than trying to troubleshoot
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February 2018
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February 2018
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February 2018 15
Life As A Caregiver I am a pretty positive person by nature. I tend to view things with the glass half full. That doesn’t mean I’m a Pollyanna. But it means I would rather be happy than sad. But dealing with a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease sometimes makes being happy a challenge. It not only impacts your day-to-day existence, but in can creep into how you react to other issues that come up. Take this week, for example. The husband of a very good friend of mine had a severe stroke early in the week. The prognosis is unclear, but he has a very long road ahead of him, if he makes it at all. His wife is just devastated. They both are just wonderful people whom I adore. And there’s nothing I can do to fix this. Oh yes…..I am there for her. I call and comfort and pray and support. And I will make meals and run errands and whatever else I can do to assist. But that’s about it. Doesn’t seem like very much. But I know it is. I am so sad and very teary. Then a day later, I found out that a dear friend of mine is under hospice care and is unresponsive. She had cancer about 2 years ago, beat it and moved back up to Washington state with her husband to be closer to family. Then the bloody cancer came back…with a vengeance. Treatments haven’t worked and all I’ve been able to do (with the help of our two other friends who all paled around together as a group) is declare my love and support through sending cards and texts. There is nothing I can do to fix this. I am so sad and very teary. And then today I learned she died. My dear friend died….way too soon. But at least she is out of her pain and with the angels.
couldn’t fix it. And when I left her room, I was sad and teary. And that’s what happens to caregivers. They take on all the natural burdens of life and have a harder time coping with them because they pile up inside. I am lucky that I can get through them. God truly made me strong in many ways. But I am also quite emotional at the same time. Not the fall-apart emotional. But the teary and heavy-heart kind. I wasn’t able to cry my eyes out over the loss of my friend until my mom was settled and ready for bed. I wasn’t able to be quiet and pensive and deep in my thoughts over the stroke my friend had until mom was comfortable and secure for the night. But that’s the way it is. I must be strong for her and not visibly sad or it will only make her sad. For the moment anyway. She won’t remember why I’m sad, but like I said, she & I live in the moment. So what’s the solution to help keep my sanity and allow me to take care of myself? Working out is good. Taking short respites is also good. And I do both. But my love for my mom is unconditional and watching her go through this brings tears to my eyes as fast as I can snap my fingers. Which is what I wish I could do to rid her of this horrible disease! Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
Also today, as I was giving my mom her breakfast, she tried to find a word to express what she wanted me to do. And it wouldn’t come. And she broke down and cried out of total frustration. The inability to find words to express yourself is an effect of Alzheimer’s. She hasn’t had that problem very often, so this could be a sign of continued deterioration. I settled her down, was kind and soft with her and explained that this was a symptom of Alzheimer’s, not about her being stupid (which she claims she is). She snapped out of it quickly and she resumed breakfast. But I
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February 2018
Money Matters
Life changes often come with changes to your tax situation. Overlooking these changes when filing your taxes can lead taxpayers to make mistakes that leave money on the table, potentially impacting their refund at a time when the average refund is about $2,800. Here is a list of common tax mistakes to avoid in the 2018 filing season to help ensure you don’t miss any deductions or credits that you deserve.
One of the most common mistakes taxpayers make is selecting the wrong filing status. A taxpayer’s filing status can affect which credits and deductions they’re eligible for, the value of their standard deduction and their tax bracket. One situation that can make choosing a filing status difficult is when more than one filing status seems to fit. In addition, common clerical errors such as mixing up names, forgetting to include information reported on your W-2, 1099 or other forms, or even making mathematical errors can also affect your tax benefits. Most taxpayers file their taxes using the standard deduction, but you may be eligible for a variety of itemized deductions that could possibly save you more. Also, you may be eligible for “above-the-line” deductions and tax credits, none of which require you to itemize. And it’s important to note that the newly passed tax reform generally does not impact these credits or deductions until you file your 2018 tax return in 2019. Earned Income Tax Credit for lower-income workers: Twenty percent of eligible taxpayers, particularly lower-income workers, do not claim the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Depending on their income and the number of children they have, these taxpayers may be eligible for an EITC of $503 to $6,242. Since eligibility can fluctuate based on financial, marital and parental status, taxpayers can be ineligible one year and eligible the next. Viva
Itemizing deductions: Itemizing can save taxpayers hundreds of dollars, as only one third of taxpayers itemize but millions more should - especially homeowners. Owning a home is often the key that unlocks itemization, but some taxpayers with high state taxes and charitable contributions may also be able to itemize.
Itemizing enables eligible taxpayers to take deductions such as: * Charitable donations * Medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income * Personal property taxes * State income or sales taxes * Casualty losses such as a fire, hurricane or earthquake * Mortgage interest payments On average, the IRS announces annually that approximately $1 billion goes unclaimed in federal tax refunds. Taxpayers can claim a refund for up to three years after the filing deadline. So, in addition to filing your 2017 return, keep in mind to file your 2015 return by April 17, 2018. If not, you will lose your 2015 refund. There is no latefiling penalty if a taxpayer is due a refund. Also, even if you are not required to file a return, you may be entitled to a refund.
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Positivity 6 Traits of Positive Communities
likely to feel connected to their community.
Promote Fairness Positive communities may differ in what they encourage 3. and how their values get implemented into policy, but, Diversity is abundant in all communities. However, among every group containing diversity, there are overall, these groups share common characteristics: always individuals who fall in the minority. Positive communities work to ensure that those who fall in 1. Work Together for a Common Goal The most effective communities share similar values minority populations are not treated differently. These and belief systems that cooperate to help accomplish communities give a voice to minority populations one or several goals. These goals can vary radically through frequent consultation with members of those depending on the community in question. For example, societies about how the community can improve to one community may value environmental goals such as meet their needs better. promoting recycling and making forest areas friendlier Set Clear Policies and Obligations to wildlife while another community may put more 4. Positive communities do not set rules. Instead, they value on improving the education system. work to encourage community members to fulfil their obligations. This may include things as simple 2. Allow for Freedom of Expression Central to developing a positive community is comfort as attending community meetings or paying taxes to among citizens when it comes to speaking their minds support the public-school system. and expressing what is important to them. Individuals Maintain Sensitivity Towards Members who feel encouraged to give their input about an issue, 5. who feel heard when they do speak their mind are more In addition to feeling heard, members of positive communities should also feel as though their concerns are adequately addressed and that they are cared for by the community. Positive communities should prioritize the well-being of every member of the community and address concerns in a timely and sensitive manner when they arise. 6. Promote Interaction Among Members Positive communities work to foster a feeling of genuine connection among members by providing plenty of opportunities for interaction. Creating a feeling of connection works to make members more motivated to meet their obligations and work towards the established goals of the community. Let’s make our community a better place for all of us, be positive. Submitted By Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control
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February 2018
Shut-Eye
While few people like daily workout routines or kale salad, most everyone loves sleep. And a good night’s sleep loves you, too: It boosts mental and physical well-being. With today’s stressful, highly caffeinated, screen-addicted lifestyles, millions of Americans do not get enough sleep. There are many reasons for this.
How do you achieve that wonderful, restorative eight hours of sleep?
Nearly 70 percent say worry and responsibility are preventing them from getting the sleep they need. However, putting your own self-care first is often the best way to care for others. Those who sleep well say they have a healthy balance of taking time for themselves and helping others that need them (39 percent versus 26 percent). Of course, if you’re having difficulty sleeping, this might sound easier said than done.
* Stay tidy: Those who make their bed every morning are less likely to struggle with sleep.
There’s not one right way to do this, but there are several habits good sleepers have:
* Ditch the device: Forty-six percent of self-described This year, more than 30 percent of Americans “good sleepers” never or rarely bring a device to bed. reported they slept worse than in 2016. * Have a laugh: Those who sleep well are more likely A big culprit here is television. Nearly half of all to watch a comedy before going to sleep. respondents said that television often cuts into their sleep. In fact, 24 percent of millennials and 14 percent * Keep it cool: Forty-five percent say that cooling down of all Americans report that binge watching before bed the bedroom temperature is the No. 1 thing they do to improve sleep. prevents them from getting enough rest.
How do you get there?
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A good night’s sleep can mean the difference between having a wonderful or a horrible day. More and more Americans are realizing this. Sleep is so individualized, and there’s no one right way to do it. The more you know about how you’re sleeping, the more you can learn what adjustments you should make to sleep better.
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Healthy Living
A new year brings new opportunities to focus on health can be utilized and absorbed by the body,” points out and fitness. The following are four easy ways to boost Palinski-Wade. your health in less than five minutes per day. High stress levels can increase blood pressure, affect Drinking enough water each day helps to boost your immune system and cause you to pack on the hydration, improve energy and aid digestion. But pounds. To instantly fight stress, remember to breathe. drinking before meals may offer another benefit - it can Practicing deep breathing exercises, such as belly help you to eat less and lose more weight. One study breathing, can reduce heart rate and lower stress found drinking 16 ounces of water in the half hour hormones quickly, helping to prevent stress from having before meals led to nearly three pounds of weight loss a negative impact on health. To practice, place one hand on average over a 12-week period when compared to on your chest and the other on your belly. Breathe in slowly through your nose into your belly. You should those who did not drink before a meal. feel the hand on your stomach being pushed outward No matter how while the hand on your chest remains still. Hold the healthy your diet, breath for a few seconds, and then push it out through you may fall short on pursed lips, like you were whistling. Repeat for three essential nutrients slow, deep breaths to instantly feel less stressed. day to day. “Taking a multivitamin is Finding time to exercise can be a challenge, but there one of the best ways is good news for those with maxed-out schedules. A to ensure you are recent study found that just one minute of high-intensity meeting all of your exercise may be equivalent to 45 minutes of moderatenutritional needs intensity exercise. Although you shouldn’t ditch your consistently,” states Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDE, workout routine completely, when you are short on and spokesperson for Swisse Wellness. When choosing time, aim to fit in small bursts of exercise throughout a multivitamin, not just any option will do. “Look for the day. Just make sure your doctor clears you for brands that have been clinically tested to ensure they intense exercise before getting started.
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We wait all year for activities that come along with winter, like sipping hot cocoa by the fire or staying in to snuggle up under cozy blankets while re-watching our favorite movies. The winter season also brings some less-than-desirable side effects, though. An alltoo-common winter woe is dry, flaky skin that can feel itchy, tight or painful.
Dry Skin
for the skin (and don’t get you any cleaner).
“I recommend that my patients keep showers under 10 minutes in lukewarm water,” Henry says. Afterwards, she says, pat yourself with a towel so some moisture is left behind on the skin, and then seal it in by applying lotion all over.
Here are some of the common causes of dry winter skin, along with her expert tips for cold-weather skincare so 4. Excessive hand washing you can start feeling better all over. Hands can take a beating during the winter months. With germs running rampant all season, hand -washing 1. Dry air is everywhere is important to stay healthy, but those who wash their You may think that the outside air is to blame for your hands frequently tend to suffer more from dry skin, she dry skin. While this may hold some truth, heated indoor says. Give hands some extra TLC this time of year. air also has very little humidity. When you spend After washing, always apply a thick lotion to protect your life basking in this dry environment, your skin against and heal dry, cracked hands. eventually pays the price. 5. Your products are too harsh “During the winter months, the skin contains more Your winter skin care regimen should be different from moisture than the air,” Henry says. “What happens is your summer routine. Many summertime products are the dry environment leeches the moisture from the skin, designed to remove dirt, oil and sweat, but when it gets leaving it looking and feeling dry and dull.” colder and dryer, these products may become drying and irritating. Henry recommends switching your facial Moisture loss, dryness and cracking comes as a result cleanser or body wash from a foam or gel to a creamof damage to the skin barrier. To replenish your taxed based moisturizing formula. skin, slather on a rich emollient that contains ceramides daily. Ceramides are like the mortar that holds the bricks of your skin together and are essential to healthy skin. For on-the-go relief, tote along small containers of moisturizer wherever you go. 2. Too much (or not enough) exfoliation Make no mistake, exfoliation is important to year-round skincare, but adding it in the winter is essential. This process clears away dead skin cells and product residue, letting your winter moisturizers penetrate the skin and work more effectively, Henry says. Steer clear of products with beads and grains that strip and irritate the skin, especially in the winter. Instead, choose formulas designed to be gentle on sensitive complexions. 3. Too many long, hot showers On a cold winter morning, a long shower that really steams up the mirror is relaxing and feels great. However, Dr. Henry says these long sessions are drying Viva
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Volunteer!
Did you know that 35,000 hours of volunteering is the equivalent of working 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year with no days off for 17 years?
personally involved with others through volunteering, we have the opportunity to deliver simple acts of kindness that can help others find healing, support and a new beginning. In addition, volunteering has real For American Legion Auxiliary (ALA) member Sarah benefits for the volunteer. It can provide a sense of Brooks, who was recently recognized for volunteering fulfillment that benefits our minds and bodies. Studies more than 35,000 hours in service to military veterans, have shown that people who volunteer live longer, those are hours spent offering fellowship, kindness and healthier and happier lives. attention to those who made sacrifices for our freedom. Brooks’ decades-long dedication to the military “When I returned home from military service in my community has helped hundreds of veterans in the early 20s,” said Victoria Pridemore, a former truck Grand Rapids, Michigan, area. The veterans she serves driver, battalion paralegal and division chief paralegal have become her family, her lifeline and a blessing she in the U.S. Army, “I wasn’t sure how I could serve my never thought she would receive. community since I didn’t have the means to donate monetary gifts to any organization. I realized I could How did the 91-year-old come to dedicate her life to have an impact on my community just through my serving others? “It starts with a hello,” Brooks said. actions and donating my time.” In 2012, Pridemore founded ALA Unit 1 in Washington, D.C., to help serve Brooks shares her time between a veterans home, ALA- veterans and families in that area. sponsored events and a veterans rehabilitation center. “A hello can be the bridge to a great interaction and Now serving as president of the American Legion a wonderful memory. In my 59 years of volunteering, Auxiliary unit, Pridemore, 33, works with local I can say I don’t have a favorite memory from my community organizations to plan monthly volunteer volunteer efforts because every day is a new and events for ALA members and non-members in the area. beautiful experience,” Brooks said. Their local activities range from cleaning the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to holding a holiday drive for People can give back in many ways, such as donating donations for inpatient veterans to send gifts to their material items like canned goods and clothes or family members. In 2016, ALA Unit 1 helped almost offering financial support. But giving time is one of the 200 veterans in the D.C. area. most unselfish actions we can perform. By becoming While Sarah Brooks recently received a lifetime achievement award from the ALA for her 59-year commitment to service, Pridemore reminds us that there is no “small” act of kindness and service. “Every giveback moment is an opportunity to have a real impact,” she said. “A touch, a smile, just a brief conversation can make a difference in someone’s day. “And, when a group of people do come together for a day of real service, it’s so fulfilling,” Pridemore said. “That is why I believe so strongly in the ALA’s mission ‘In the spirit of Service Not Self.’”
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Puzzles & Games Sudoku Solution
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Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck! Solution is on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com
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Sudoku for February
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Valentine Riddles Q: What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day? A: I’m stuck on you! Q: What travels around the world but stays in one corner? A: A stamp. Q: Why is lettuce the most loving vegetable? A: Because it’s all heart. Q: What do squirrels give for Valentine’s Day? A: Forget-me-nuts. Q: What did one volcano say to the other? A: I lava you. Q: What is a vampire’s sweetheart called? A: His ghoul-friend. Q: Why did the banana go out with the prune? A: Because it couldn’t get a date. Q: What happens when you fall in love with a french chef? A: You get buttered up. Q: What did the caveman give his wife on Valentine’s Day? A: Ughs and kisses! Q: Why did the boy put candy under his pillow? A: Because he wanted sweet dreams. Q: What did the paper clip say to the magnet? A: I find you very attractive.
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Business Directory AUTO SERVICES Desert Princess Car Service Litchfield Auto Repair
602.300.7076 623.882.8700
FINANCIAL & LEGAL SERVICES Bergen Financial Group Edward Jones - Chris Carlton Fairway Mortgage Kramer Legacy Documents State Farm Insurance - Tina Gremillion The Insurance Lady
800.915.2502 623.386.1940 602.524.2421 623.299.2957 623.386.7767 602.799.8410
HEALTH & BEAUTY Healthy Life Family Medicine Permanent Make Up
623.889.3477 602.295.7373
HOUSEHOLD SERVICES Al’s Plumbing Beckham Electric Century Glass & Mirror Cluff Mechanical Heating & AC Desired Handyman J&H Appliance Repair JBS Roofing The Window Cleaner AZ Urgent Air
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623.329.5170 480.370.1014 623.444.6204 602.765.COOL 623.910.5183 623.925.5427 623.247.9252 623.738.6064 602.377.1999
LANDSCAPING & POOL CARE Buckeye Desert Landscape Jackrabbit Nursery Pool & Landscape AZ
602.527.2818 623.386.4700 480.999.3348
REAL ESTATE HomeSmart - Jeff Otero Realty One Group - Burkhardt Team Realty One Group - Donna Goranson Realty One Group - Karen Reuland Realty One Group - Mary Ann Evans Realty One Group - Mary Couzens Team RE/MAX - Klackle Team United Real Estate Success - P.J. Thayer West USA Realty - Budge Team
623.640.7275 623.853.5878 623.271.0518 623.262.4523 602.652.3709 623.536.0909 623.261.9943 623.229.9464 623.694.3907
RECREATION Eleutheria Wellness Studio KFNX 1100AM Radio
623.986.5110 602.277.1100
RETAIL & RESTAURANTS Budget Blinds of Goodyear Estrella Ordnance Haymaker Restaurant Co. Pure Patio Steel Sheild Security Doors
480.629.8854 623.262.2154 623.536.9000 623.299.8000 623.977.3277
February 2018
Useful Numbers EMERGENCY SERVICES Emergencies (Police / Fire) Police Non-Emergenc Fire Department Non-Emergency Fire Dept. (Snake Removal) Poison Control Center
911 623.932.1220 623.932.2300 602.253.1190 800.222.1222
HOSPITALS - MEDICAL Banner Estrella Medical Center Cancer Center of America Abrazo West Campus
623.327.4000 800.268.0786 623.882.1500
CITY OF GOODYEAR 24-hr City Information Line City Hall Code Compliance Finance Department Graffiti Removal Public Relations Public Works
623.932.1716 623.932.3910 623.882.7815 623.932.3015 623.882.7815 623.882.7820 623.932.3010
POST OFFICES Avondale Post Office Goodyear Post Office Litchfield Park Post Office
623.925.2664 623.882.9148 623.935.2087
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LICENSES Drivers & Plates Vehicle Emissions Station
602.255.0072 887.692.9227
PUBLIC UTILITIES APS - Electric Company Cox Communications Centuary Link Telephone Southwest Gas Company Trash Pick-up Water/Sewer
602.371.7171 623.594.1072 480.428.1290 877.860.6020 623.932.3010 623.932.3010
COMMUNITY SERVICES Eagle’s Nest Clubhouse Eagles Nest Fitness Center Eagles Nest Golf Club Expressions Gallery Kare Bears House PebbleCreek Main Gate Patrol Toscana’s Restaurant & Lounge Tuscany Falls Clubhouse Tuscany Falls Fitness Center Tuscany Falls Golf Club
623.935.6780 623.935.6783 623.935.6750 623.935.6744 623.536.1200 623.935.0387 623.935.0387 623.935.6753 623.935.6720 623.935.6740 623.935.6757
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