My Hometown Estrella - December 2013

my hometown

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Thank You!

If there is one thing that challenges most of us this time of

year, it’s the hustle-bustle of keeping up with the events of

the season. In the midst of all your preparing and celebrat-

ing, I hope you’ll take a few moments to enjoy the final

issue of 2012. We’ve focused the December issue on some

customs and behaviors of your neighbors, near and far.

Page 3

Volume 6. number 12www.myhometownestrel la .com december 2012

It is almost that time to celebrate 2013. Join your friends

and neighbors at Starpointe for a “Fire & Ice new Year’s

eve Celebration”. The evening consists of a buffet dinner,

cocktails, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast.

our own resident DJ ray mar will lead the celebration

and keep you on the dance floor all night long!

Page 9

Ring In The New Year at Starpointe

The estrella community is a

great community to be a part

of and I could not be happier to

be here. The year 2012 had so

many community accomplish-

ments.

Page 10

Holiday Traditions

Call: 623.850.0005 Email: [email protected]: 623.850.0005 Email: [email protected] www.WeSellAzHomes.com to see all of the homes for sale in our local MLS

PREFERRED CHOICE

West Valley Real Estate Group Presents….

Your Local Real Estate Offi ce!

Stacia MeekerABR, CDPE, CRS, GRI

Gilbert JaramilloePro, SFR, USAF Ret

9860 S. Estrella Parkway,

Ste. B-125

Goodyear, AZ 85338

Your Local Real Estate Offi ce!Your Local Real Estate Offi ce!

We Specialize In:

www.facebook.com/

EstrellaHomesAndLand

We are located to the east of Safeway in the Mountain Ranch Marketplace. Come by anytime for information on Estrella, Goodyear and the West Valley

Happy Holidays!

Don’t miss our Home Sweet Home article in “The Up the Hill Magazine “ about the Chrystal 2013 conference we recently attended. Check out our new app for real estate information of active properties. Just text 32323 and keyword westvalley to check out the app. Call or come in to see us for any questions.

LAKE FRONT home is updated and model perfect with pool and million dollar views of South Lake at Estrella! For additional infor-mation please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westvalley for photos and details! Enter 10952 when prompted.

Unbelievable views! Beautiful custom home is just steps to South Lake Park Wrap around patio, rooftop view deck, tile, granite, central vac, CASITA and more! For ad-ditional information please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westval-ley for photos and details! Enter 18283 when prompted.

Wow! Beautiful former model includes custom built-ins, sparkling pool and private amazing views! For additional information please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westvalley for photos and details! Enter 18220 when prompted.

Luxurious T.W. Lewis home in gated Emer-ald Greens is all quality! Resort like backyard with pool, in-ground spa, custom BBQ island and more. For additional information please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westvalley for photos and details! Enter 12872 when prompted.

Ashton Woods with 2400sqft of nice! Fully landscaped, coo blue pool, oversized yard. For additional information please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westvalley for photos and details! Enter 13830 when prompted.

Move in to a brand new custom home, full of wonderful upgrades! Four car garage, fully landscaped with pool and outdoor gas fi re pit and nearly 360 amazing views. For additional information please call our offi ce, visit our website or text 32323 with westvalley for photos and details! Enter 18256 when prompted.

Mike Gwinn -

As this holiday season continues this month and the year comes to a close it becomes a time of reflec-tion. We have been very blessed this year. Our successes have not been ours alone and we appreciate the relationships which have blossomed as a result of all the hard work done by the persons we have had the privilege of working with this year. These are the people, teams and businesses that have helped us grow and have allowed us to or have provided superior service to our clients. The absolute best part is that is we can call the vast majority of these folks as friends. We truly appreciate the confidence and trust given us by so many clients to guide them through the multitudes of issues and complexities that can occur during real estate exchanges. As a result of this confidence and trust it allows us to minimize the uncertainty for those clients not familiar with the processes of a real estate transaction. We wish you all a glorious season and wish the best for you and yours for the New Year.

God Bless

Stacia & Gilbert and the rest of the Estrella Homes & Land

Sold by RE/MAX Preferred Choice Team

People, Teams and Businesses we have had the pleasure of working with...MGM Maintenance -Damian & Mer-cedes Martin

Chase Bank – Jean, Cathy, Holly, Jason, & all the team

Air N Sun Cooling & Heating – Thank you Jim

Each and every new home builder in Mountain Ranch

Oasis Bagels – Thank you Carol

Kitchell LLC. Ana & Jesse

Great Clips

Safeway – Thank you Kim, Darlene, Nada and all the customer service focused

Q Financial - Jason Servais

Estrella Publishing – “Up the Hill” Al, Cath-erine and Doris

The volunteers From Estrella Foothills High School

William Ryan Design Center – Thank you all.

Taste of Italy

The Team at West USA

Estrella Mountain Dentistry - Dr Joel Rolfe

The HOA Team at the Residents Club – Jodie, Shirley, Holly and Linda

1st American Title - Karen West & Myriam Silver

Assured Pest Control - Steve

The Newland Team at the Visitor Cen-ter. Thank you Caroline

VIP Homes – Thank you Evelyn

Papa Johns – Thanks all

Elliot Market

Verizon My Frog

And any one we missed. We appreciate the efforts you have provided us and our clients.

my hometown: page 3www.myhometownestrel la .com

Volume 6. number 11

december 2012this month...

Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission is prohib-ited. The Fountain is a monthly publication highlighting house, home and community building. The Fountain accepts freelance contributions, though there is no guarantee that unsolicited material will be returned. The Fountain 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. We reserve the right to restrict all advertisements to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy.

Our mission for My Hometown Estrella is to connect Estrella residents to each other and to key resources with the goal of build-ing community in Estrella and the greater Goodyear area.

My Hometown Estrella is a great example of what can happen when neighbors build strong relationships and get busy putting their ideas and skills together for the good of the community.

We hope you find this community publica-tion reflective of our excitement to be in Estrella and our desire to build something that brings us all closer together. We invite you to join in the fun and get involved.

FountainMediaGroup inc.

publications that build community

my hometown

TradiTions

If there is one thing that challenges most of us this time of year, it’s the hustle-bustle of keeping up with the events of the season. In the midst of all your preparing and celebrating, I hope you’ll take a few moments to enjoy the final issue of 2012. We’ve focused the December issue on some customs and behaviors of your neighbors, near and far. As always, we’re sharing some of the great events planned in this commu-nity and we think you’ll appreciate the optimism reflected in many of the articles.

In addition to our announcements, spotlights and signature pieces, it is with mixed emotions that I inform you that our newspaper is closing up the print shop. The Fountain Media team members are taking on new paths of our own in the New Year. Individually, we’re reclaiming our passion, by refocusing our strengths and outlining our energy patterns into new projects. In doing so, each of us will pursue new opportunities for personal and professional growth. You might say, we are each starting new tradi-

tions, and we’re “oh-so-encouraged” about the places we will go! It has been a privilege for me to be part of this publication. Through your support, kindness and readership, I have attempted to capture some of the

great events and people celebrated in our community, placing those memories in your mailboxes

monthly, on paper. I thank you for your support and for your kindness to me over the past years.

Just like the tradition of a carefully decorated holiday tree, the sequence of light-

ing an additional candle on a menorah or the season of beautiful Arizona sunsets, there is a seasonal time for change and that time has arrived

for My Hometown Estrella newspaper. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the events happening in the community, the feature articles and the introductions to your neighbors, as much as I’ve enjoyed bringing that information to you. I hope each of you relishes in a joyful holiday season with bright optimistic ideas of your own stirring in the coming New Year. Happy Holidays! I will see you in the neigh-borhood!

KIm AlVArADo, eSTrellA reSIDenTeditor’s corner

Conquer Those Holiday Cravings 13

Protecting Plants From Frost 14

Tips on Choosing - and using - a Tax Preparer 15

Fighting Depression with the Season of light 16

lifestyle

community news

on Your DoorSTeP neWS & eVenTS HAPPenIng In AnD ArounD eSTrellA 4

HoA eVenTS & bulleTIn boArD Your HoA IS HArD AT WorK WITH THeSe Fun reSIDenT eVenTS 10

ClubS, ClASSeS, meeTIngS STArPoInTe reSIDenTS Club ProgrAmS & CommunITY CAlenDAr 11

people in your neighborhood

THe TIllmAn FAmIlY neIgHborS & FrIenDS You’D lIKe To meeT 12

business highlight

SHoW APPeAl reAlTY 18

O F F i c E

Fountain Media Group, Inc. 1501 San Elijo Rd. S, Ste. 104-202

San Elijo Hills, CA 92078 (800) 497-1309

www.fountain-inc.com

P u b l i s H E r s

Tim Minjares Publisher

(800) 497-1309 x707 [email protected]

Kim Alvarado Associate Publisher


E d i TO r i a l

Kim Alvarado Community Editor


Mike Minjares Managing Editor


c O n T r i b u T i n g w r i T E r s

Christopher Carlton, Estrella’s Edward Jones Financial Advisor, & Patti Hart, Director, Soul Care Ministries, Estrella

Mountain Church

wa n T TO a d v E rT i s E ?

Contact Kim Alvarado (800) 497-1309 x705

[email protected] www.myhometownestrella.com

page 4 : my hometown www.myhometownestrel la .com

eSTrellA

on your doorstep

recipes for Holiday leftovers

leftover Turkey Pot Pie

Turkey can be a hassle to reheat individually. This turkey pot pie can be made up immediate with leftovers and frozen for a later date. You can make it as big, or as small, as you like and there are no measurements required. This great recipe is from the kitchen of Estrella resident, Julie Sisk.Turkey, broken into medium size pieces

mashed Potatoes (optional)

Turkey gravy, make sure there is plenty of gravy to mix in, or serve with addi-tional gravy

Corn (optional) another leftover vegetable can be substituted

Pie Crust (homemade or store bought)

Put all ingredients, except for the pie crust, into a 2 ½ quart casserole dish and blend. Top with pie crust and make of couple of slits in the top, or decorate with small cutouts.

Freeze for later. bake at 350 degrees for about 45 min-utes, being careful not to burn the pie crust. If necessary, cover the edges of the crust with foil.

The bookmaker’s sandwich

Recipe and Inspirations shared with you, from a co-Fountain Media Group Editor, of The Fountain Newspaper, Karishma Sinnott. Karishma resides and works in San Elijo Hills, California. Enjoy this great leftover idea for your holiday prime rib or beef tenderloin.reserve 5 lbs. leftovers beef and the juice from prime rib or beef tenderloin in a large Ziplock bag for this recipe.

The original bookmaker’s sandwich was made for the working class man of Ireland who worked away from home for an extended period of time. legend has it that the length of the sandwich directly correlated with the amount of time that the man spent away from home (1 foot per day). originally, ham or bacon with a slice of cheese between two slices of soda bread was the treat made for the man coming home, where his wife would put a heavy book on the sandwich to weigh it down as it toasted over an open fire. You can almost imagine how delicious a hot sandwich would be to the Irishman who had been out in the fields on a rainy, blustery day. now, the bookmaker’s sandwich is often made with beef, thick slabs of soda bread, cheese, mustard, salt and pepper. And if you would have the opportunity to make it on soda bread, by all means, do! A google search reveals many results, barefoot Contessa’s recipe is probably my favorite, and adds an interesting flavor to the sandwich. In our house, the bread of choice is the baguette. my favorite thing about this sandwich is that it is so versatile – use leftover turkey, roast beef or ham or bacon or prime rib or tenderloin.

Slice the beef with all saved juices, add grilled, caramelized onions and top with cheese between slices of your choice of bread. Then, lightly butter both sides of the baguette and place directly on grill pan, weighing it down with a heavy book, wrapped in aluminum foil.

When toasted, the flatted sandwich transforms into a Panini-type crispy sandwich with melted cheese and marinated juicy onions, with a crispy outside covering of bread. Pair this Irish delicacy with a delicious salad, fresh fruit and a glass of tea for a simple, yet satisfying meal. Pretending all the while that you are eating it at a scenic spot in the emerald Isle.

Estrella Mountain Preschool sponsors Pajama drive

During this season as we think about Christmas and the joy this holiday brings, our thoughts turn to how we might bring joy to others. It is in this spirit that Estrella Mountain Preschool is honored once again to be partnering with The Pajama Program to host a Pajama Drive for warm comfortable PJs that can be given to local children in need. The Pajama Program gives new pajamas and books to children at local group homes and shelters. Many of these children have been abused or abandoned, and have never enjoyed the simple comfort of having a mother or father tuck them in with a story at bed-time. To kick-off our Pajama Drive, Estrella Mountain Preschool will be holding a pajama party! The students will be coming to school in their PJs, wrapping their donated pajamas and making a little prayer to go with them.

If you would like to help make a child feel warm and cared for during the holidays, please bring a new set of PJs – sizes infant to teen – to Estrella Mountain Church or Preschool by Thursday, December 13. For every set of pajamas collected, Scholastic will provide a child with a new book. The preschool is located at 10485 S. Estrella Parkway on the church campus. For questions or further information, please contact Lisa Tucker at 623-476-5578.

westar Elementary school soars above and beyond

Two years ago Westar Elementary School began an educational journey to position itself as a cutting-edge school in the West Valley. They set out to be innovative in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. By adopting a STEM focus, they launched into the adjustment of educational strategies across all grade levels. It has been an amazing adven-ture with administration, staff and students

integrating all elements of learning into a col-lection of educational opportunities. In the words of the late Steve Jobs, it has equipped them with everything they need to put their own “ding in the universe.”

As a result of this emphasis in STEM education, Westar Elementary School and Liberty Elementary School District launched a ceremony of the construction of a new,

state-of-the-art building that will house six advanced student science laboratories to allow added opportunity for students to fully engage themselves in investigations of all sorts.

The Westar motto is to go “Above and Beyond.” The launching celebration allowed Westar students to take an active role in the ceremony by engaging students in discovery about rock-etry and information about how the Westar mascot “Comet” symbolizes the approach of going “Above and Beyond.”

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AAA Hardwood and Floors ........................................................................www.AAAHardwood.comAir NOW Heating and Cooling - .......................................................................www.AirNOWac.com Augie Zolezzi - Mortgage Broker ............................................................................. 602-206-1850Betti’s Custom Sewing ........................................................................................... 623-242-7877Camile Trachsel Smith, Realtor ..........................................................................EstrellaAgent.comConsider It Finished Painting ..................................................www.consideritfinishedpainting.comDarizona Appraisal Services .............................................................................www.Darizona.comDesired Handyman ............................................................................ www.DesiredHandyman.comEdward Jones Investments ............................................... [email protected] Owner Services ........................................................................ [email protected] Partners - Up the Hill Magazine ............................................www.UpTheHillMagazine.comGoodyear Homewatch ................................................................... www.GoodyearHomewatch.comHandyman Xtreme ............................................................................. www.HandymanXtreme.comIntegrity Hearing ...............................................................................www.IntegrityHearingAZ.comJCR Enterprises ...............................................................................JCRobertsonLLC@yahoo.comL J Designs .....................................................................................................LJDesigns@cox.netMountain Ranch Dentistry ........................................................ www.MountainRanchDentistry.com MT Plumbing ....................................................................................MarkTrinidad67@yahoo.comOasis Bagel ..................................................................................................www.oasisbagels.comRandall Carpet Care ..........................................................................www.RandallCarpetCare.comSonal Strasser, Licensed Massage Therapist ................................www.Sonal.MassageTherapy.comStarpointe Cafe at Estrella, LLC ................................................ www.StarpointeCafe.Blogspot.comEstrella Home Monitoring Services ............................................www.EstrellaHomeMonitoring.comSummerwind Solar ............................................................................ www.SummerWindSolar.comWest USA Realty ................................................................................. www.hometownestrella.com Arizona Carpet Services .................................................................www.PhoenixCarpetRepair.comLittle Red Wagon Handyman .............................................. www.ArizonaHandymanServices.com LiDoggie Doors on the Run ............................................................ www.DoggieDoorsOnTheRun.comGoodyear Property Services ............................................................... [email protected] Vasquez, Realtor .................................................................................www.amy-vasquez.com

estrellabusiness.com


eSTrellA

on your doorstep

The Golf Club of Estrella is located at 11800 South Golf Club Drive, Goodyear, AZ 85338

Robin Schmitz is visiting Estrella for a ten-month period, made possible through the American Institute For Foreign Study-Academic Year in America Program. From October 2012 until June 2013, Robin has enrolled at Estrella Foothills High School as a junior and lives in our community with a neighborhood host family. He explained that his short stay in Arizona, filled with abundant sunshine and new experiences, is quite contrasting to the lush greenery and his routine at home in Bad-Neuenahr Ahrweiler, Germany. Therefore, he plans to take full advantage of learning all he can about the American culture while he is here.

“I want to someday return to America. I want to live here,” said the bright blue-eyed teen who dreams of following in his father’s career path to become a pilot.

Robin, who can fluently speak the languages of German, English, French and some Spanish, said that he has always dreamed of coming to

german Exchange student Enjoys Fun in the sun

America and couldn’t be more overjoyed about expe-riencing some of America’s customs and traditions. Through his research online, he was able to make his dream come true. Robin said that he intends to soak up his current surroundings and as many opportunities to gather new stories to share when he returns home, through travel, and with the help of his camera. Some of his favorite new experiences, here in America, are hamburgers on the grill, riding his bicycle to school and gaining new friendships in the theatre program at Estrella Foothills High School. Later this spring, he plans to try out for the tennis team at school. During his stay, Robin would like to see the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, and some of America’s ‘fun cities,’ such as Las Vegas, Los Angeles and New York. He couldn’t be happier about

the warm welcome he has received from friendly people here in the states, believing that his experiences here are a large part of the enrichment that he will always remember when he returns to Germany.

Estrella book club needs Your slightly used books!

The Estrella Book Club is excited about donat-ing books to Phoenix Children’s Hospital this season and your assistance with donations would be greatly appreciated. There will be two donation boxes located at the Starpointe Residents Club, one for new books and one for slightly used books, from November 7 through December 12. Take this opportunity to clean off your bookshelves and donate to children and their families who are hospitalized.

*Books written in Spanish are also needed.

sip & solar Hosted by summerwind solar

Join Dave Hardy for a “Sip & Solar” event at the Starpointe Resident’s Club on Thursday, December 6, 6pm. This event will be a casual wine and light food infor-mational social, designed to provide conversation about solar. There will be a short presentation and a ques-tions and answers session included. For more information, contact Dave Hardy at Summerwind Solar [email protected]

cruise Over to Estrella Mountain car club’s christmas Party

The Estrella Mountain Car Club is planning their annual Christmas party at the Pebble Creek Country Club on December 8. The club is always seeking new members and the only requirement for joining is an interest in auto-mobiles! Although some of the club’s members have cars dating back to the 30’s, others have today’s newest models. The members of this group invite enthusiasts to join in the fun. For more information contact Carl at [email protected]

The Estrella Mountain Car Club meets on the second Saturday of each month at 9am at the Starpointe Residents Club and hosts a “Cruze-In” on the fourth Saturday of each month from 8 to 11am at the Safeway at Mountain Ranch Marketplace. Bring your car and your lawn chair for this social gather-ing among friends.

bundle up and listen to the Music

It’s that time of year again. The jack-ets come out, the neighborhoods start to sparkle with lights and if you’re near Estrella Mountain Elementary School on December 19, you’ll be able to hear the beautiful music made by our students. Every year in December our music teacher, Mr. Efrain Cassilas, puts together a program to showcase what our students have been learning in his class. It’s usually a variety of songs from all different cultures and traditions for this season. You will hear children singing and you will hear them play their instruments. The show starts at 6pm so come by and join us. Our school would love to share our tradition with you. Estrella Mountain Elementary School is located at 10301 South Miguel in Goodyear. For more information contact the school at 623-327-2820.

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Prepaid Reward Card. This rebate offer may not be combined with any other Hunter Douglas offer or promotion. © 2012 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

Save September 15 — December 15 on select Hunter Douglas window fashions.* ’Tis the season for you and your guests to celebrate in style.

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eSTrellA

on your doorstepget ready for 2013 city Of goodyear Elections

The election for City of Goodyear Council members is quickly approaching. The primary election will take place on March 12, 2013 and the general election, if needed, is set for May 21, 2013.

The Mayor, along with three Council seats are up for election. All candidates must be residents of the City of Goodyear for a period of two years before election dates. Council candidates must also be at least 21 years of age.

If you are interested in running for Council, candidate packets can be picked up at the office of the City Clerk, 190 N. Litchfield Rd. Please call 623-882-7828 in advance to schedule an appointment for packet pick-up. The deadline for filing a Candidate Packet is December 12, 2012 at 5pm. For more information, go online to www.goodyearaz.gov

Handyman Xtreme wishes You a very Merry christmas

Sung to the tune of “The 12 Days of Christmas”

On the first day of Christmas my true love handed me this list:

1. Our electrical needs a fixin’ so our home’s not a sparkin’ 2. My oven’s burning goodies 3. Security door’s a must – house filled with smoke 4. The ceiling fan’s not a turnin’ 5. TV’s on the fritz 6. The ice is not a droppin’ 7. The frig is not a chillin’ 8. Sliding doors are stickin’ 9. Dishwasher’s not a cleanin’ 10. Toilet’s still a runnin’ 11. Kitchen faucet won’t stop drippin’ 12. Front door’s not a latchin’

WE NEED HANDYMAN XTREME!

upcoming Events at EFHsThe holiday season has several performing arts shows that we invite

members of the community to attend. All upcoming events listed take place in the Performing Arts Center on the campus of Estrella Foothills High School beginning at 7pm.

Winter Dance Concert – Thursday, December 13 and Friday, December 14

Winter Music Concert – Tuesday, December 18

Please note there is a minimal ticket charge to help cover the costs of the productions.

Winter sports are also underway. Check the athletic page of Estrella Foothills at www.buhsd.org for schedules.

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eSTrellA

HOa events

It is almost that time to celebrate 2013. Join your friends and neighbors at Starpointe for a “Fire & Ice new Year’s

eve Celebration”. The evening consists of a buffet dinner, cocktails, dancing, party favors and a champagne toast. our own resident DJ ray mar will lead the celebration and keep you on the dance floor all night long! Purchase your tickets at The Community Services office. They are $125 per resident couple and $150 per guest couple. reserved seating only. members registered on the community website www.lifeinestrella.com receive advance notice of all upcoming events. make sure you are registered so that you don’t miss out!

Ring In The New Year at Starpointe

special announcements

not To be Missed...Estrella Family breakfast every Friday – 8:30am

winterFest December 1 – 2pm – 7pm

sip and solar seminar December 6 – 6pm

Trivia December 10 – 6:30pm

Father daughter dance (EYs) December 14 – 6pm

cocktails & conversations December 15 – 7pm - 9pm

Farmers Market December 15 – 10am

Potluck bingo December 20 – 6:30pm

new Year’s Eve celebration ‘Fire & ice’ December 31 – 8pm

winter break Pg Movie & Teen Karaoke January 3, 2013

amazing Jakes Trip January 4, 10am - 5pm

January 3

Indoor Family Movie

Thursday, January 3

10:00am – 12:00pm

Free

Snacks and Drinks will be provided

Youth Club Karaoke

Thursday, January 3

1:00 – 3:00pm

Free

Visit www.lifeinestrella.com for more information.

Monday, december 31 Starpointe

$125/resident

$150/non-resident guest

New Year’s Eve MenusaladsWild Field greens with grape Tomatoes & Cucumbers with raspberry Walnut Vinaigrette Dressing

mediterranean Penne Pasta Salad with Artichoke Hearts, Feta Cheese and olives

EntreesSeared Salmon Filets with roasted red Pepper Sauce

Cracked Pepper Flank Steak with Wild mushroom Demi glaze

beveragesCoffee, Tea, Water, and Soft Drinks

sidesParmesan glazed Scalloped Potatoes

medley of Fresh broccoli, Cauliflower, and Carrots

Fresh baked rolls with Sweet butter

dessertA Delicious Variety of Pies, Cakes, and Cheesecakes

bar service4 Drink tickets are includedAdditional drinks available at a price of:$3 beer $5 mixed Drinks

January 4

Amazing Jakes Group Trip

Friday, January 4

10:00am - 5:00pm

$25

buffet lunch, Carnival rides, games, laser Tag, go Kart, rock Climbing Wall, and Transportation. An adult must accompany each group of chil-dren.

Save time, money and gas!

$59to Airport

A Sedan Service for all your needs! www.desertprincesscs.com

602-300-7076

Let’s Keep Estrella Beautiful

No need to wait for Bulk Trash Day

Kiko’s Pickin’Free Pick up

Used Metal, Appliances, Tools, Car Batteries,

Metal Patio Furniture, Water Heaters

Call 623-256-5890 or 623-386-0942 (leave message)

starpointe winter break activities


eSTrellA

HOa bulletin board

community services Office Hours:

Mon.–Fri.: 8am–5pm Tel: 623-386-1112 Fax: 623-386-5788 After-hours HOA contact number 1-800-274-3165

Closed December 24th and 25thOpens 8am - 5pm Wednesday, December 26th Closed December 31st and January 1, 2013 Regular Hours Wednesday, January 2nd - 8am - 5pm

starpointe residents club

17665 West Elliot Rd, Goodyear, AZ 85338 623-386-1949

Operating Hours: Mon.–Th. 5:00am–9pm, Fri. 5:00am–8pm Sat. 8am-6pm, Sun. 10am-6pmYouth Club Hours:Mon.-Fri. 3pm-8pmSat.and Sun. 1pm-6pmClosed December 24th and 25thOpens 8am - 9pm Wednesday, December 26th Closed December 31st and January 1, 2013 Regular Hours Wednesday, January 2nd - 5am - 9pm

Yacht club Hours

Closed MondayTuesday - Sunday 10am - Dusk623-386-3411Closed December 24th and 25thOpens 10am - Dusk Wednesday, December 26th Closed December 31st and January 1, 2013 Regular Hours Wednesday, January 2nd - 10am - Dusk

community Patrol’s Phone number

602-329-0462Monday - Friday 6:00 pm to 2:00 amSaturday and Sunday 10:00 am to 2:00 am

Estrella ManagementEstrella is professionally managed by Capital Consultants Mgmt. Corp. (CCMC)

Estrella Management Team Community Manager: Lisa Lundskow

Administrative Coordinator: Sharon Thunstedt Administrative Associate: Linda RockhillOperations Manager: Debbie HarperFacilities Director: Todd WuellnerECA Compliance/Design Review Coordinator: Jodi Matlock VCA Compliance Coordinator: Amy HelmsCommunications Coordinator: Shirley RobertsonRecreation Director: Dean Westover Recreation Coordinator: Tammy CampbellRecreation Assistant: Monica LondyStarpointe Front Desk Lead: Mary Ann BrungardtLifestyle Director: Holly AguilarYacht Club Coordinator: Jordan Ring

assessment billing address:

Payment Processing Centerc/o CCMC-Western RegionPO Box 105260Atlanta, GA 30348-5260 or pay online at www.ccmcnet.com.

community association board Members:

Estrella Joint Committee (EJC) Developer Appointed Board Members: Alper Adli, Brian Konderik Pete Tieche, Lesle Sweeney, Brad Kettelkamp

Estrella Community Association (ECA) Developer Appointed Board Members: Alper Adli, Lesle Sweeney, Brad Kettelkamp

Resident Elected Board Members: Bill Zednik, Barbara Ertl

Villages at EMR Community Association (VCA) Developer Appointed Board Members: Alper Adli, Pete Teiche, Lesle Sweeney

Resident Elected Board Members: Dennis Brungardt, Tom Mineo

HOa contactThank You from lisa lundskow, community Manager

The estrella community is a great community to be a part of and I could not be happier to be here. The year 2012 had so many community accomplishments. Some of those accomplish-ments include:

• Tennis Court fences/screens – Bougainvillea Park

• North Lake and South Lake – Tree rings all reset and pavers leveled

• Permanent and final fix to the Bougainvillea Park washroom windows

• Palm Tree Trimming project – brought bids and saved over $36K from budgeted amount

• Tree and shrub replacement projects (Spring and Fall)

• Granite replenishment project – in progress

• Serenity Retention Project – complete

With your help we were able to meet and exceed many of our goals. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication from all of the volunteers of this community. We are excited about the future of estrella and all of the projects and enhancements as we begin 2013.

I want to thank each and every resident for the opportunity to serve the community and hope everyone has a great and safe holi-day season.

HAPPY HolIDAYS!

Holiday and bulk Trash reminder

As always, place your trash/recyclables out the eve-ning before pick-up and bring them in no later than the evening of pick-up. regular trash/recyclables is every Friday and Holiday pick-ups to be pushed to the next day. bulk pick-up in estrella has changed effective october 2012. refer to The City of goodyear’s website to learn more – www.ci.goodyear.az.us/index.aspx?nID=2821

Yard appreciationThank you for keeping a

nice maintained yard.

11329 S orion Drive

11186 S Indian Wells Drive

11252 S Indian Wells Drive

11125 S Star Court

neighborhood voting Members: start The new Year by getting involved in Your community

Thank you to the Volunteers who have submitted applications to serve as their neighborhood Voting member or Alternate Voting member for 2013.

neighborhood Voting members and Alternates serve an important role in the community. every neighborhood in the estrella commu-nity is entitled to be represented by a Voting member as well as an Alternate (if eligible). estrella has 46 neighborhoods eligible to have a Voting member. There are 32 neighborhoods that do not have a Voting member for 2013.

If you are interested in representing your neighborhood, applica-tions are available in the Document library on www.lifeinestrella.com, or at the Starpointe residents Club and Community Services office. Please submit your application by December 1.

“let’s work together” “Would you help?” “Thanks for your interest”

Just a Friendly reminder

If your assessment pay-ments are set up on an auto-matic withdrawal through your private bank or through Smartstreet, please remember to update the payment amount to reflect the 2013 assessment rate for the gated parcels. If you have a Surepay direct debit account set up through CCmC, that amount will be updated automatically.

Feel free to contact the estrella Community Services office with any questions at 623-386-1112. Thank you.

starpointe residents club Holiday Hoursmonday, December 24 – Starpointe Closed All Day

Tuesday, December 25 – Starpointe Closed All Day

Wednesday, December 26 – Starpointe Will open at 8:00am until 9:00pm

monday, December 31 – Starpointe Closed All Day

Tuesday, January 1, 2013 – Starpointe Closed All Day

Wednesday, January 2, 2013 – Starpointe open normal hours – 5:00am to 9:00pm

new Year resolution ideas for 2013

• Be more active in your Community

• Drive slower in school zones

• Take a walk around the Lakes

• Say “Hi” to a new neighbor

• Commit to volunteer

• Visit Starpointe Residents Club

• Log on to www.LifeInEstrella.com

• Visit Star Tower and take in a beautiful Arizona sunset

• Start a Block Watch program in your neighborhood

• Regularly check on an elderly neighbor

• Recycle, Reuse or Reduce

• Take down decorative lights before January 31

• Attend a Board meeting


S u n D AY m o n D AY T u e S D AY W e D n e S D AY T H u r S D AY F r I D AY S AT u r D AY

12pm - WinterFest

2 31pm- bridge

48am- emr business group

10am- landscape Committee meeting

6pm- board of Directors meeting

59:30am- Playgroup

11:30am - business group networking mixer

1pm- Weekly Poker

1pm- ladies of the lake

6pm- bridge

6pm- goodyear in Action

6:30pm- Trails Committee

meeting

7:30pm- Friends of estrella

69am- Crafts & Stuff

9:30am- needle Workers

6pm - Sip & Solar Seminar

78:30am- estrella Family breakfast

89am - Car Club

11am Travel Club

9 101pm- bridge

6:30pm - Trivia

115pm- emr mom’s Holiday Vendor event

129:30am- Playgroup

10am- estrella book Club

1pm- Weekly Poker

6pm- bridge

6:30pm- Voting member Commiittee meeting

136pm - games, games, games

5pm - Communications meeting

7pm - Democrats living in estrella


1510am - Farmer’s market (West of Starpointe lakeside)

7pm - Cocktails & Conversations

16 171pm- bridge

5pm- Social Committee meeting

18 199:30am- Playgroup

1pm- Weekly Poker

6pm- bridge

7:30pm - Friends in estrella



6pm - bingo


22

23 24Starpointe Closed

25Merry Christmas,

Estrella!

Starpointe Closed

268am - Starpointe opens

9:30am- Playgroup

1pm- Weekly Poker

6pm- bridge


1pm - Quiddler


288:30am estrella Family breakfast

29

30 31Starpointe Closed

Jan 1Happy New Year,

Estrella!

Starpointe Closed

2 310am-12pm- Indoor Family movie

1pm-3pm - Youth Club Karaoke

410am-5pm - Amazing Jakes Trip - $25 per person

DeCember 2012

upcoming Events & activities

december 2012

bonnie Jansson

maximum muscle...using slow eccentric and concentric repeti-tions working the muscles to “failure”[email protected]

bea brumbach

belly Dancing…Tribal style belly dancing is a fun way to dance and get some [email protected]

Michal Kempton

[email protected]

susan Miller

beginning Zumba…modifies the moves and paces to suit an older participant or those just beginning.

Zumba…fitness program that combines hot international rythms with easy to follow dance moves.

Drums [email protected]

linda Jojola

Yoga

Step and [email protected]

shawn Forzetting

F.I.T.T. boot [email protected]

Kim Hopkins

Cardio Splash

Power [email protected]

Emily davisbeachbody [email protected]

dawn Terry

Total body Conditioning

Core galore: Increase: balance, stability, coordination and sports performance

starpointe Fitness instructors

Visit www.lifeinestrella.com for more information or

call Starpointe residents Club at 623-386-1949

Tumbling & Fitness basic tum-bling skills, physical fitness, agility, coordination develop-ment, flexibility and [email protected]

linda Purdy

ballet

[email protected]

rick Harris

Kickboxing 623-398-7161 [email protected]

barbara gabriele

Hypnotherapy WorkshopAre you looking for help in solv-ing your problems and achiev-ing your goals? [email protected]

community Events community groups community Meetings

To obtain an updated class schedule visit www.lifeinestrella.com or the Starpointe front desk.

Other


WHo Are THe

meet your neighbor

Anke Tillmann reached out to the My Hometown Estrella team by shar-ing some beautiful photographs she’d taken recently during sunset time in the community. “I just can’t take enough pictures up here in Estrella,” she said. Anke won’t call herself a professional, but she has certainly captured some professional-looking scenic shots, utilizing some highly-dynamic range techniques with her professional Nikon D700 digital camera. For Anke, tak-ing photographs is a means of relaxation. This busy, stay-at-home mom also enjoys doing yoga in her free time.

The Tillmanns are originally from Germany and landed in Arizona, specifically Estrella, in April 2012. Anke’s husband, Joerg, is a German Air Force Instructor pilot and has been training aircrews located at various bases around the United States. One of his tours brought the Tillmanns to Texas and this time Arizona, where the family will be stationed for a three-year period. The Tillmanns couldn’t be more excited about soaking in some of Arizona’s terrific sunshine and sunsets associated with our fall and winter seasons. Anke boasts that Arizona’s seasons are completely opposite of the dreary and rainy ones which serve as backdrops to her photographs taken back in Germany.

The Tillmanns utilized the Starpointe splash pool and waterpark dur-ing the 2012 summer months to help them settle into their new desert surroundings. Anke recalls the easy transition of trading in raincoats and wool scarves for bathing suits and flipflops. Bjoern, age 13, is now attending Westar Elementary School and enjoys playing the Clarinet. His younger brother, Liam, who is almost 3, simply appreciates playing.

Like many of you, the Tillmanns are preparing for a Christmas holiday

Meet The Tillmann Family – Joerg, Anke, bjoern and little liam

celebration. Anke shared a few of the differences of traditions in Germany verses those in the United States. “In Germany, there is a longer period of ‘pause’ over the Christmas holiday season. From noontime on December 24 through the end of day on December 26, it is rare to find any businesses, banks or schools open. Only hospitals and businesses with absolute necessity are actively running during those dates. In Germany, our biggest celebration night is December 24, which we call Holy Night and includes indoor decora-tions of light. This year, the Tillmanns are likely to jump into the family car, windows down and enjoy all of the community magic revealed in outdoor decorating,” she said.

America’s dining-out frequency, coupled with a larger number of restau-rant options is another difference the Tillmann family members have noted while experiencing their U.S. cultural exchange. Anke added that her family has frequented their newest favorite in Goodyear, Ah-So Sushi & Steak Restaurant. And she believes that the nice, small, regional restaurants in her home country have mostly been traded for less-desirable fast-food options. For this reason, she said, many people in Germany cook and eat at home.

Anke Tillmann understands that if there is one thing that can be con-sidered traditional internationally, it’s the need for charitable offerings and human support. Through her photography, she has raised money to donate to a charity that she is particularly passionate about, Chernobyl Children International (www.chernobyl-international.com). Anke, and neighbors just like her, are helping erase the boundaries of a custom of need through their contributions. I’m proud to introduce the Tillmanns as neighbors to know in our fabulous community!

Event brought to you by a manager of the maricopa county parks and recreation department.

Events:Western Photos with Santa (dates online)Christmas Trees & WreathsWreath MakingHoliday ShoppingPhotos with Santa (dates online)Horse Drawn Wagon Ride with Bells, Caroling, and LightsPony RidesCraft Activities for All AgesCampfire & Marshmallow RoastingFun Family GamesHay Maze

PhoenixAZ

CORRAL WESTCORRAL WESTCorral West Arena at Estrella Regional Park14401 W. Arena Dr. Goodyear, AZ 85338623-882-3808 • [email protected] • www.CorralWestArena.com

HOURS:Thurs 1pm-7pmFri-Sat 1pm-9pmSunday 1pm-5pmCLOSED Monday - Wednesday & Thanksgiving Day

Activities:Western Photos with Santa & Photos with SantaHoliday Song Sing Off Holiday Music Band Play OffHorse & Carriage Decorating ExhibitionChoral GroupsChristmas Light Show & Competition

Activities with additional chargesSpecial Event, dates are online & are subject to cancellation

Family Four Pack $30with Wagon & Pony Rides for four

(with kids 18 & Younger)

Festival Entrance $10with a Wagon & Pony Ride

Ages 3 & younger Free

Park entry per vehicle $6

COST:

CorralWestArena.com

November 17th - December 23rdNovember 17th - December 23rdCountry Winter WonderlandCountry Winter WonderlandCountry Winter Wonderland

Corral West is hosting our first annual Country Winter Wonderland Festival and we are inviting you to join us in celebrating the Holidays. Make your Holiday memories with us at Corral West,

take a Western Photo with Santa, or make an adventure of finding your perfect Christmas Tree!We are exited to join you in making this Holiday season one your family will always remember.

More Info on Activities, Event & Contest Entries at: w w w . C o r r a l W e s t A r e n a . c o m

Christmas Trees & Wreath Sales • Christmas Light Wagon Ride • Western Photos with SantaFood and Drinks: Hot Coco, Coffee, Cider, Hot Dogs, Hamburgers, Chili and More.


cOMMuniTY liFEsTYlE: HEalTH

bY: TK SmITH

The holidays always bring a mixed bag of emotions. We love them because it is a time to celebrate and be with friends and family. But the holidays also come with a lot of guilt around food and worrying about the weight gain from all of the holiday goodies that are everywhere.

Why is it so hard to control ourselves when it comes to these goodies?

Here’s a little known secret. That “lack of control” you feel every time you give in to one of those holiday goodies is NOT because you are weak and have no will power. Certain foods (sugar and simple carbs are two big ones) have addictive attributes. That’s part of it. But, even after we have removed what I call the “physical addiction” to cer-tain foods, what is left behind is what I call a “residual addiction” to food – namely, a habit (or craving). And, these show up a lot during the holidays.

Every habit (or craving) has three parts: a trigger, a behavior and a reward. The trigger could be a physical addiction, which leads you to a cer-tain behavior. Maybe you’re craving sugar, so you grab the first cookie you see. You can also have emotional triggers. Like whenever you have a bad day, you grab a pint of ice cream on the way home. Even the time of day can trigger a behavior – say your morning coffee. And, of course, the holidays can be a trigger for all kinds of eating or drinking habits.

The trick is to begin to recognize your triggers, behaviors and rewards so

Conquer Those Holiday Cravingsyou can begin to replace them with new ones that support the lifestyle you want.

The holidays provide a perfect opportunity to reshape your cravings. Here’s a perfect exercise to practice this month that will help you conquer those holiday cravings once and for all.

Awareness – When you have an urge to eat some-thing bad, ask yourself, “Why do I want this?” Is it because my body needs the fuel and nutrients or is it

because of a habit that has been created in my brain? At this point, you have a decision to make. You can eat the item or you can chose to not eat it. Being aware of why we are eating something is the first step.

Recode your brain – If you consciously choose to eat the item, that’s okay. You now have an opportunity to recode your brain. About 20 minutes after you’ve eaten it, ask yourself how your body feels. Not your head…your body. Your brain will say “Woohoo that was great,” but your body will be tell-ing you something much different. Maybe it feels bloated or sluggish. This practice will help you learn to listen to your body, which actually is a stronger drive than your mind – once you learn to listen to it.

For the next four weeks, repeat these two steps every time you find your-self in a situation with food – good and bad. It’s a powerful habit and after doing this for four weeks, you will find yourself starting the new year with a habit that will eventually recode your bad eating habits forever. Try it!


cOMMuniTY liFEsTYlE: landscaPE

Protecting Plants From FrostTraditionally this time

of year we are preparing our landscapes for the poten-tially freezing weather that could damage our ornamen-tals and vegetable plants as well as some fruit trees. The key is to be prepared for these acts of nature so that the damage can be minimized. It does not take much to keep the frost off of your plants. Make sure that you are keeping consistent moisture to your plants by keeping up with regular watering. If you hear that there is a frost warning in your area, you can use a frost cloth made for this purpose that can be purchased from a nursery or home improvement center, burlap or even a bed sheet will work. The key is to have the cloth cover the plants completely to keep the warmth around the plant until the threat of frost is over. At that time remove the cloth to allow for the plant and surrounding soil to warm up from the sun. You may need to cover your plants a couple of nights in a row depending on the weather. Do not use a plastic tarp to cover your plants as the plastic will cause more damage to the plant than not covering them.

If you have a raised garden, then constructing a frame around the garden will help support a frost cover and protect your garden from the cold. If you need it, you can add a 100-watt light bulb in an approved outdoor fixture near the base of the plants making sure that the light does not touch any leaves, trunks, or cloth. The heat from the light will rise and be captured by the cloth and help give you some added protection from the cold.

If you see frost damage typically a few days after the frost – you will see black or wilted leaves – hold off on the urge to trim off, this foliage will help protect the plat from future frosts. When the threat of frost is over, typically in early March, then you can prune the damage back to the spot where you see new growth.

Your plants and gardens can survive the frost if you take a few steps to help protect them from the frost.

estrella Fall Planting ProcessThe Landscape Committee, in cooperation with CCMC, has

identified priority areas for the fall planting of trees, shrubs, and groundcover. The priority areas for trees are different than the priority areas identified for shrubs. Therefore, the focus for trees will be major arterial streets that include: Estrella Parkway, Elliott, San Gabriel, San Miguel, Westar, Calistoga, and Golf Club Drive. The focus for shrubs and groundcover will be grand marquee entrances that include: Star Tower, Montecito, Golf Club Village, and Sonoran Village. In addition to these grand marquee entrances, we will be completing the planting of shrubs and groundcover to the neighborhood marquis entrances. During the last shrub and groundcover planting the neighborhood marquee entrances were not completed, thus we are finishing up that planting prior to moving on to new areas.

During this fall planting, we will be evaluating warranty work as well. The landscape planting company, who performed the planting last fall, has been notified and will honor their one-year warranty at this time. Once the warranty work is complete, the new shrubs and groundcover will be added to assure that we are not replacing material that is warrantied. The warranty work and the new planted material will be completed by two separate companies, please be aware, as you may be inconvenienced during these plantings located at the neighbor-hood marquee entrances.

The Landscape Committee’s planting philosophy is a process of evaluation that takes into consideration the area’s most visible for all residents. The process will start with the main arterial streets, neigh-borhood marquee entrances, and ultimately the branch streets. This philosophy has led us to prioritize areas as indicated above for this fall planting. Thank you for your support, allowing the Landscape Committee to be your advocate in maintaining and enhancing the beautiful landscaping here in Estrella.

share Your story!Do you have a story or article

idea you’d like to see in my

Hometown estrella? give our

editor, Kim Alvarado, a call at

800-497-1309 x705 or

[email protected].

We look forward to

sharing your story with the

community!


cOMMuniTY liFEsTYlE: TaXEs

Specialists in Orthodontics and Pediatric DentistryNow accepting new patients.

Hilgers Pediatric Dentistry

623-536-0079www.hilgerspedo.com

Hilgers Orthodontics

623-935-3908www.hilgersorthodontics.com

Elliott Market in Estrella Mountain Ranch17750 West Elliot Road Suite C Goodyear, Arizona 85338

Tips on Choosing – and Using – a Tax Preparer When you first started out in your adult life, things were probably pretty

simple: no house, no spouse, no kids, and few investments. So, when it came time to do your taxes, you might have gotten along just fine by using Form 1040EZ – which, as the name suggests, is pretty darn easy to use. Fast for-ward a few years, however, and here you are today: family, mortgage, 401(k), IRA, stocks, bonds, debts, charitable contributions. Now, when you sit down to do your taxes, they’re looking a lot more like your high school trigonom-etry. If that’s the case, it might be time for you to get some help.

However, anyone can claim to be a “tax preparer.” How can you find the one that’s right for you? Here are a few tips:

Check credentials. While your brother-in-law, your barber and your daughter’s friend who is really good in math all may be able to do your taxes, none of them are going to be as familiar with tax laws as a CPA, a tax attorney or an “enrolled agent” (an individual licensed by the U.S. Treasury Department to represent taxpayers before the Internal Revenue Service). So, before you hand over your tax returns to someone, ask about his or her cre-dentials and experience. If your taxes are too complicated for you to handle, you need a professional.

Get references. Ask your friends, relatives and co-workers who they use for their taxes, and if they’re satisfied with this person.

SubmITTeD bY: CHrISToPHer CArlTon, eSTrellA’S eDWArD JoneS FInAnCIAl ADVISor

Avoid preparers who promise “big refunds.” No reputable tax preparer can guarantee you a big refund – or any refund – before looking at your taxes. Stay away from these people. Also, avoid tax preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of the refund. While refunds are nice, you don’t want one that might invite serious questions, or an audit, from the IRS.

Get Organized. Once you have chosen a professional to do your taxes, what can you expect? Can you just toss a shoebox full of receipts, investment statements and pay stubs at your preparer and then wait for your return?

It’s not that easy. Even if you use a tax preparer, you’re going to have to do some work, too. Try to be as organized as possible with your documenta-tion. For example, you may want one envelope devoted solely to investment information, one to earnings, one to charitable gifts, one to other deductions, and so on. The more organized you are, the easier it will be for your tax pro-fessional to complete your return in the most favorable manner possible.

However, don’t assume that what you’re giving to your preparer is suf-ficient. If you have sold shares of stock, make sure you’ve got the cost-basis of those shares available. If this information is not printed on your statements, call your investment professional to get it.

Here’s one final tip: See your tax preparer as soon as possible. Once the tax season gets into late March, you’ll find few people anywhere as harassed and harried as tax preparers – so give them the time they need to help you.


cOMMuniTY liFEsTYlE: FEaTurE

Light Your Lamps: Fighting Depression with the Season of Light

Cultures all over the world depend on a season of lights as a reminder that even in the long, dark nights of winter, light breaks through to warm our hearts and minds. We smile at the sight of a beautifully adorned Christmas tree, or take comfort in the lights of the Menorah, the light is more than beauty and comfort. We absolutely need it to survive.

In the story of Hanukkah, what was feared to be just one night’s worth of oil miraculously gave eight days of light. Today, Jewish culture celebrates the miracle with eight days of giving and receiving gifts, with the menorah burning eight flames of remembrance of God’s provi-sion in that dark season.

The Christmas season is a convergence of several old traditions that, not without con-troversy, were integrated over the generations to combine a season of light with the birth of Jesus. Though he was more likely born in April, remembering his arrival during the dark uncertainty of winter serves to re-ignite the divine light that keeps believers striving to walk in his ways.

In India, Diwali (“array of lights”) origi-nated as a Hindu tradition. Today, it is embraced by all of Indian culture as a five-day celebration of joy and life. It takes place in autumn months, prior to Hanukkah and Christmas, but also marks a triumph of good over evil. Light, rejoicing, singing, and, of course, eating of sweets all abound.

Whatever your heritage or current traditions, it is no coincidence that the earth lights up with life during a time when the sun is less available. And just like the oil that lasted eight days, miracles continue that blast through darkness and bring new hope where we lack. No matter how depleted we might feel, if we still have breath in us, we still possess that “oil of gladness.” It is within each and every one of us.

There seem to be countless ways that the light within us can at times be dimmed. Sometimes it’s just melancholy, sometimes a deeper sadness. The origin of clinical depression can be biochemical or genetic, or triggered by trauma or long-term stress. Big changes in our lives such as relocation, job loss, or grieving a loved one can bring on intense sadness, or an unfamiliar numbness in even the most jovial of people. Even the change of seasons can seem to threaten our vitality, diminishing our light.

The symptoms of depression, like its origins, are many. They can signal other health issues, or they can point to depression as a secondary problem when we are battling physical illness. And because we are similar but varied creatures, not everyone who experiences this will share the same symptoms. Here are a few to watch for: sleep problems, mood changes, digestive prob-lems or pain.

If you are noticing a pattern of more than one of these symptoms over

several months, in yourself or someone close to you, a visit to the family doctor is timely. For more information, visit www.nimh.nih.gov. Thankfully, this is the season of light. If we are willing to look, there are remedies all around us during this season. So if you notice mild melancholy setting in, or simply want to keep your oil lamp lit throughout the season, consider what the season natu-rally brings.

Togetherness. This is the season of gathering. For Arizonans, it may not be a cozy gathering indoors by the fire. It might just be that front porch gathering, or a time to see neighbors while walking around the lakes or on a bike ride. Do you miss the voice of a certain friend, sister, brother or parent? Instead of waiting and wondering, make that call and exchange some light. It can be risky if the past holds tension, but seek a trusted friend to help build your courage or decide who to call.

Good Food. Yes, the baked goodies give us a little endorphin boost during a low moment, but we can balance those sugary

goodies with some other goodies that guard against depression and some health problems that can lead to it. Fish oil is great for the brain, and stud-ies have found diets high in fish to be protective against depression. Sweet potatoes and squash are both loaded with Vitamin A (protects the heart) and potassium (lowers blood pressure). Walnuts and other nuts provide brain nourishment and other benefits. Overall, the most delightful part of the holiday eating is the variety of foods we prepare. Delightfully different colors, textures and nutrients combine to awaken our senses and add to the spirit of togetherness, brightening the light that already lives in our lives.

The Light. Maybe it’s a fireplace. Maybe it’s the twinkling lights on the tree, in your yard, all over the neighborhood. Or maybe it’s the light exchanged between the eyes of people who care for each other. The burst of joy in the face of a child opening a dream-gift, the unexpected music of carolers on a dark, cool evening, the smell of pumpkin bread baking; all of these bring little rays of light that remind us the winter is no match for the love that exists within us.

If you’re already full of hope and excitement for the season, that is won-derful! Start spreading that light. If you are one who feels that your lamp can only light one more day, it’s time to challenge that feeling. Refuse negative thoughts. Light your little lamp, and trust that it might have more oil within than you realize.

Local support for those who have, or are caring for someone with depression or other mental illness can be found at www.namiaz.com. For immediate help with depression or thoughts of suicide, call 602-222-9444, the Maricopa County Mental Health Crisis Line.

SubmITTeD bY PATTI HArT, DIreCTor oF Soul CAre mInISTrIeS, eSTrellA mounTAIn CHurCH


businEss dirEcTOrY

CAN-DO MOVING Office & Residential

www.candomovingaz.com

Mike Brown

602-803-6350 [email protected]

COMPUTER REPAIRS

HOME THEATER SERVICE EMR resident

duVal Goley

(623)-547-2050 email:[email protected]

&


eSTrellA

business spotlight

David Sims has been a Realtor since 2006. He loves helping people, so it seems a natural fit that he would want to help his customers get the best fit possible when they are looking to purchase or lease a new home. “Being able to work in the community and serve the needs of my friends and neighbors is something that I do not take for granted,” said the Show Appeal Home Specialist.

David began his work with real estate while work-ing in the investment world, selling mutual funds. He claims that he is very competitive and thrives on work-ing up a great transaction or the best deal, describing his work as sort of a competition. “Whether I’m compet-ing against the market, another person, or myself, I’m constantly striving to be my best,” he added. Because real estate is usually one of the biggest investments that people make in life, it is extremely important that the process is done correctly and runs smoothly in order for it to be a positive, enjoyable experience for all parties involved.

Show Appeal Realty provides services to meet all real estate needs – selling, buying, leasing. “These days, the majority of house shopping is done

show appeal realty online. I believe that having a solid online presence is essential,” said Sims. “I receive many emails, calls and inquiries through the online marketing that I do on Google and other search engines, as well as sites like Zillow that receive heavy traffic from prospective buy-ers. Because I avoid high overhead, I am able to pass the savings on to my clients,” he said. He added that one of his goals as a real estate service provider is to make real estate transactions as low stress as possible. He also wants to be sure the process runs smoothly and clients know that they’ve received the best pos-sible deal.

With 2013 quickly approaching, David reminds buyers and sells about possible tax changes, including tax increases. In addition, watch for changes in the laws that protect Arizona residents after a short sale or foreclosure. “I would highly recommend anyone anticipating a real estate transaction speak to a trusted tax professional and attorney before the end of 2012.

In addition, there is a wealth of information that can be researched online.” To learn more about Show Appeal Realty visit www.EstrellaRealEstate.com or contact David Sims at [email protected] or by phone 623-853-3769.

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Rates are for individual play.Tee times may be

booked 5 days in advance. Offer expires 12/31/12

ESTRELLA RESIDENT SPECIAL

$55 $59MON-THUR FRI-SUN

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West USA Realty EstrellaHAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Homes in Estrella are Selling - We Need Your Listings

www.facebook.com/WestUSAGoodyear

(623) 474-5900 HometownEstrella.com17750 W Elliot Rd, Ste 116,

Goodyear, AZ 85338

Located next to Taste of Italy (in Estrella Mt Ranch).

Family Owned & Operated!

810 N. VILLA NUEVA DR

$549,000

18468 W. SUNRISE DR.

17915 W. NARRAMORE

$560,000

10293 S. SANTA FE LN.

810 N. VILLA NUEVA DR18468 W. SUNRISE DR.

17915 W. NARRAMORE 10293 S. SANTA FE LN.

8885 S. SAN ANGELO ST

$849,000

17661 GOLDEN EYE AVE 17652 W. SUMMIT DR.

13346 S. 175TH DR.

17661 GOLDEN EYE AVE 17652 W. SUMMIT DR.

13346 S. 175TH DR. 8885 S. SAN ANGELO ST

NEW LISTING

NEW LISTING

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FAMILY HOME

RENTAL

RENTAL

CUSTOM

YOUR HOMETOWN FAVORITE

REALTORS!

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NNP III-Estrella Mountain Ranch, LLC (“Fee Owner(s)”) is the owner and developer of the Estrella Community (“Community”). Certain homebuilders unaffi liated with the Fee Owner or its related entities (collectively, “Estrella”) are building homes in the Community (“Builder(s)”). Fee Owner has retained Newland Communities solely as the property manager for the Community. Newland Communities is not co-developing, co-building or otherwise responsible for any of the obligations or representations of any of the Builders, and shall have no obligations to any buyer regarding a home purchase from a Builder. Purchasers of homes from any of the Builders waive any claims against Newland Communities arising out of their purchase transaction. Prices, specifi cations, details, and availability of a Builder’s new homes are subject to change without notice. All square footage is approximate. Access to, and use of, The Golf Club of Estrella is not included in the purchase of homes or homesites. Additional fees are required. ©2012 NNP III-Estrella Mountain Ranch, L.L.C

Established in 1992, William Ryan Homes has built homes for more than 9,000 families initially beginning in Illinois and then expanding into Arizona, Florida and Wisconsin.

In Estrella, William Ryan Homes builds in three neighborhoods and has saved the best for last in its Greenspointe neighborhood. Located right on the golf course, and close to amenities like the Yacht Club and Starpointe Residents Club, it is especially appealing to families seeking an active lifestyle.

William Ryan Homes has only six remaining opportunities in Greenspointe. Of those, two are currently under construction - the popular Jameson and Santiago fl oor plans - and will soon be ready for quick move-in.

William Ryan Homes specializes in single-family homes, in a variety of styles, from the mid $100’s to $300’s. Each home features Energy Star Certifi cation, full home solar systems, home automation, fl exible fl oor plans and amenities that allow them to deliver the visual appeal, livability, quality and value homebuyers desire. In addition to Greenspointe, William Ryan Homes also builds in Ironwood Pointe at Mountain Ranch, and Serenity at Montecito. For more information call 602-490-8309 or visit estrella.com.

We invite you to discover Estrella – featuring 72-acres of lakes; the Starpointe Residents Club; 18-hole championship golf course; two K-8 schools and one high school; parks, trails and open space; a collection of distinctive builders and spectacular custom homesites. Brokers welcome.*

INFORMATION CENTER (623) 386-1000

STARPOINTE RESIDENTS CLUB (623) 386-1949

YACHT CLUB (623) 386-3411

GOLF CLUB OF ESTRELLA (623) 386-2600

BUILDER OF THE MONTH WILLIAM RYAN HOMES

VISIT ESTRELLA TODAY

10300 SOUTH ESTRELLA PARKWAY GOODYEAR, AZ 85338

Estrella.com

CANTAMIA CONTINUES TO GARNER NATIONAL RECOGNITION

www.facebook.com/EstrellaAZLife @EstrellaAZLife

ESTRELLA’S WINTERFEST DELIVERS 10 TONS OF FUN!On December 1 Estrella hosted its largest holiday event of the year, WinterFest. Held at Starpointe from 2 – 6 p.m., this family-friendly event featured a multitude of activities and entertainment including a concert by the band Thaddeus Rose, the annual tree lighting ceremony, performances by the Starpointe Ballet and the main attraction…ten tons of snow!

Children bundled up to play in the snow and also enjoyed arts and crafts, train rides, carnival games and bounce houses. The Phoenix Children’s Academy provided holiday cookies for decorating.

Local vendors showcased holiday gifts and the Burger Mania food truck served up tasty treats. For a full list of all the holiday festivities happening in the community, visit lifeinestrella.com.

Over the past two years, Estrella’s CantaMia by Vitalia has received acclaim for the quality of its homes, facilities and aggressive green initiatives. Adding to its list of accolades, the gated active adult community was recently awarded the Peninsula Publishing’s Pubby Award for best “Green Senior Living Community of the Year.”

“The Sustainable Active Adult Community of the Year was recognized for commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction,” said Elysia McMahan of 50+ Builder Magazine. “CantaMia has demonstrated great awareness of homeowner needs and continues to promote sustainable concepts through homebuilding.”

CantaMia by Vitalia offers 16 fl oor plans, two of which are brand new and have been designed with the empty nester in mind. It is an APS Energy Star and Solar Community as well as an Environments For Living certifi ed community, and each home comes equipped with solar. CantaMia truly stands out from the competition with its commitment to environmentally responsible initiatives. Along with outstanding lifestyle amenities and amazing mountain views CantaMia is the perfect choice for today’s 55+ retiring baby boomers. To learn more about CantaMia stop by their sales offi ce and tour the model home neighborhood, or visit www.estrella.com.

My Hometown Estrella - December 2013

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