My Hometown Estrella - August 2011

Volume 5. number 8www.myhometownestrel la .com

my hometown

August 2011

facebook/myhometownestrel laFollow Estrella on Facebook

Veeronna (Vee) ragone has been playing the

harp since she was 8 years old. In college and

beyond, Veeronna studied under the nationally

renowned harpist, Suzanne balderston. At the

music Academy of the West in Santa barbara,

California, Veeronna enthusiastically honed her

skills as a concert harpist.

Page 4

What do you put on your waffles?

berries and cream, bananas and

nuts, or cherries and chocolate?

We are setting up a Waffle bar

at Starpointe August 5th for you

to make your own wacky waffle

creations.

Page 10

Wacky Waffles

estrella’s Got Talent

Glitter, Gold and GrimmStagestruck and The Creative Arts Academy recently show-

cased one of their musical theater summer camp masterpieces

with two separate complimentary performances at estrella

mountain Church. under the direction of Teresa Tally, with

comical and original script revisions by Assistant Director,

Kristin Caraway, young actors and actresses presented Glitter,

Gold And Grimm, which lit up the hearts of the audience.

Page 4

Veeronna (Vee) ragone has been playing the harp since she was 8 years old. Photo courtesy Harley bonham

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my hometown: page 3www.myhometownestrel la .com

Volume 5. number 8

august 2011

this month...

Copyright 2011. 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.

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publications that build community

my hometown

BAck To School

Education. It’s not something we ever step away from. Sure, the kids get a well-anticipated break over the summer months, but the learning process continues, with no scheduled vacations. And, as we all know, life dishes out some pretty impressionable lessons. For me, back-to-school is more of a ‘suggestion to get organized, refocused, sort of a clear-the-clutter time of year.’ I’ve discovered two ways to make an impact on becoming more productive as I move forward into fall. I’ll start by clearing the clutter on my desktop, and then determine things that have become acceptable and work to make them significantly better. This might mean researching information to discover more about a specific neighborhood committee, organizing my daily routine to make sure fitness is scheduled in, or signing up for a workshop to enhance my photo taking capabilities. For you, it could be determination to elevate a project at work, or a relationship that just keeps feeling ‘satisfactory.’ A constant push to make ourselves and our situations better is both educational and rewarding.

Next, I’ve got to determine what objects and proj-

ects are dragging me down, realize that they are unhealthy weights and ultimately eliminate them. This process gets tricky, but is absolutely necessary for improvement and productivity. Are there too many items ‘tabled’ in a proj-ect folder somewhere on your computer’s desktop? Is

your closet overflowing with more clothing than you’ll ever wear? Donate, eliminate and start over again. Your personal space, your calendar and your improved mental freshness will thank you.

As you flip through the pages of our back-to-school issue, you’ll cultivate ideas to simplify and streamline your lifestyle this fall. Parents, take a look at the before and

after school services that Phoenix Children’s Academy offers. And, could I suggest a simple way to improve something as huge as the Estrella Mountains? Cooking enthusiasts of all ages are invited to submit a treasured recipe to the Three Rivers Historical Society, which will collectively become a community cookbook. The proceeds from this project will enhance trails among the Estrella Mountains – making already acceptable trails, significantly better. Now there’s a mini-course on how small efforts really can move mountains!

KIm AlVArADo

editor’s corner

family 14

health 15

community lifestyle

community news

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

ClubS, ClASSeS, meeTInGS STArPoInTe reSIDenTS Club ProGrAmS & CommunITY CAlenDAr 9

HoA eVenTS & bulleTIn boArD Your HoA IS HArD AT WorK WITH THeSe fun reSIDenT eVenTS 10-11

people in your neighborhood

THe lYonS fAmIlY neIGHborS & frIenDS You’D lIKe To meeT 12

business spotlight

beTTI ’S CuSTom SeWInG 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


P r O d u c t i O n

AJ Moreno Designer

[email protected]

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

Raj Patel MD, Andy Ragone

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 doorstepEstrella’s got talent

The local Sonoran smooth-styled Jazz group, dulce VAS recently submitted video To “America’s Got Talent” in what electric harpist, VeeRonna Ragone describes as a “Leap of Faith.” The 90 second YouTube video is a compilation of clips from differ-ent performances that dulce VAS had last year, along with a 30-second introduction of the group, which is made up of Ragone on electric harp, Sherry Finzer on flute and Haijung Choi on bass. “We had many of our fans tell us that we should audition,” recalls the non-traditional harpist. The group met the June 9 deadline for audition submissions and should hear back from the judge’s panel at “America’s Got Talent” later this month.

VeeRonna (Vee) Ragone has been playing the harp since she was eight years old. In college and beyond, VeeRonna studied under the nationally renowned harpist, Suzanne Balderston. At the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, California, VeeRonna enthusiastically honed her skills as a concert harpist. She followed Ms. Balderston to the University of Nevada at Reno, and later to Arizona, and Estrella, where she currently resides. She has since performed with the Phoenix Symphony and the Mesa Symphony Orchestras.

The local ‘untraditional harpist,’ recently purchased her newest instru-ment, enabling her to engage in authentic sounds and rhythms that make her so unique. Her latest electric harp is custom made and was delivered to her from France last year. It is the only harp of its kind in the Western

Hemisphere. Unlike most harps, Vee’s new electric harp is made with a strap so that she can move it around during performances. “I am able to create lots of cool sound effects, much like an electric guitar,” says the local performer. The new harp fits the Phoenix area motif perfectly because it is decorated with red flames and produces a spicy blend of untraditional music when played by dulce VAS’s lead performer.

This summer, Vee and her hus-band Andy are working on some

original music that Andy is composing. The musician has also been tak-ing classes from different Grammy and Grammy-nominated musicians to sharpen her skills. Hopefully dulce VAS will have two to three new songs recorded and mastered by early this fall.

If you’d like a chance to experience the “spicy and untraditional” music of the Sonoran-desert group, dulce VAS, you’ll have several opportunities to do so this fall. On September 25, this group will entertain guests at Vino in the Valley, scheduled at the Wigwam from 5:00 to 8:00 pm. Vino in the Valley benefits Phoenix Children’s Hospital & Urgent Care Clinic at Avondale with a Wine Tasting event and Silent Auction, featuring Arizona wines. For more information contact Tara at Ground Control 623-935-2604. In addition, dulce VAS will be performing at the Heart Ball at the Phoenician on November 19.

glitter, gold And grimmStagestruck and The Creative Arts Academy recently showcased one of

their musical theater summer camp masterpieces with two separate compli-mentary performances at Estrella Mountain Church. Under the direction of Teresa Tally, with comical and original script revisions by Assistant Director, Kristin Caraway, young actors and actresses presented Glitter, Gold And Grimm, which lit up the hearts of the audience. This performance spot-lighted local youthful talent, ranging in age from 8 to 14 years of age with intertwining fairy tales tak-ing unusual and comical twists. The audience was captivated as they savored personal attention to the talents of each of the performers featuring individ-ual monologues and singing dem-onstrations in this original stellar summer musical. I couldn’t believe my eyes (and ears) as I savored the exceptional stage settings, costumes, make-up, sound system and choreography. Children in the audience of all ages found themselves giggling at the dialog, which brought the time table of these fairy tales to date, with exceptional originality. With just three short weeks to bring this original full-length musical from start to stage, I found myself enticed by the twist of plots from familiar tales from the past, including “Rumplestiltskin,” “The Golden Goose” and “The 12 Dancing Princesses.” The Creative Arts Academy plans to feature a performance annually. As one of the performances’ featured song suggests, “I Have a Feeling About You.” The feeling is that you’ll love what you might see next coming from Musical Theater Summer Camp and The Creative Arts Academy. –K.A.

back to school informationThe first day of school for

both local elementary schools and the high school is August 3, 2011. Welcome back stu-dents, including the Westar Comets, Estrella Mountain Elementary School Cougars and the Estrella Foothills High School Wolves!

regular school schedules:

Estrella Elementary School and Westar Elementary School - 7:40 am-2:45 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Early release is each Wednesday; classes are dismissed at 1:30 pm. For a complete list of school sup-plies needed for the 2011-12 school year, view www.liberty.k12.az.us

Westar elementary School Dates to remember:

August 2 - Meet the Teacher Night (K-8) 4-6 pm August 3 - First Day of School / Early Release August 9 - Westar PTO Meeting 3 pm, Westar Library August 24 - School Pictures August 31 - Parent/Teacher Conferences - Progress Reports

Estrella Foothills High School schedule is 7:30 am-2:25 pm.

The high school theatrical students will host a performance this fall - “The Importance of Being Earnest,” at their very own performing arts theater. The date of this play has not yet been set.

Support your local high school athletics, beginning with fall sports, includ-ing Cross Country, Football, Girl’s Golf, Spiritline and Volleyball. Athletic calendar can be viewed at www.buhsd.org.

Veeronna rogone, a local ‘untraditional’ harpist,


eSTrellA

on your doorstep

Monthly, Capital Consultants Management Corporation (CCMC is Estrella’s management company) prepares detailed financial reports for eleven separate areas; The Estrella Joint Committee (EJC) excluding Starpointe, EJC Starpointe, The Estrella Community Association (ECA), The Villages Community Association (VCA) and the seven gated communities. Each of these reports detail monthly and year-to-date financial activity by type of revenue and expense, and measures each against the approved budget. The two largest reports, EJC excluding Starpointe and EJC Starpointe, detail and track over 160 types of revenue and expense. These reports are what the respective Boards of Directors submit monthly for audit.

For those homeowners who do not wish to regularly wade through all the financial details but are interested in a summarized status of EJC’s financial operations, the Estrella Budget/Finance Committee quarterly pre-pares a single page snapshot of the EJC excluding Starpointe and the EJC Starpointe reports. This consolidated snapshot functions like the instruments in the dashboard of a car giving a quick, simple view of the operation status. This “financial dashboard” is titled: COMPARISON OF ESTRELLA JOINT COMMITTEE AND STARPOINTE OPERATIONS TO 2011 APPROVED BUDGETS. It combines and summarizes the over 160 types of revenue and expense of the two reports into five major revenue sources and thirteen major areas where the monies were spent.

For each line of revenue and expense, there are six bits of information. The first two are the Year to Date Actual and the corresponding Year to Date Budget numbers. These are followed by the amount of the actual being over or under budget (Year to Date Variance Actual to Budget). Positive variance amounts are favorable, more revenue or less expense then planned, while

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estrella Home owners Association budget reportSubmITTeD bY eSTrellA buDGeT/fInAnCe CommITTee

negative variance numbers are unfavorable, less revenue or more expense than planned. The next column calculates the percent that the actual is of the budget (Year to Date Actual as % of Year to Date Budget). For example, an actual that is equal to that budgeted would show a $0 variance and be at 100% of budget. The last two columns give a view of how much has been budgeted for the total year (Annual Budget) and what percent of the annual budget has been realized or expensed year to date (Year to Date Actual as % of Annual Budget). Also included is the percent that the reserve accounts are actually cash funded as per the last reserve funding study, plus a brief analysis of significant actual/budget variances.

Like the readings on your car’s dashboard, the readings you see are just a snapshot of a moment in time. Unlike your car’s dashboard which updates itself automatically, this financial dashboard does not. The financial data contained in the Year to Date Actual column is a summary of the commu-nity’s pre-audit financials as of the report date. The numbers may be subject to future adjustment. Should having reviewed this financial summary you desire to perform further analysis, the detailed documents submitted for audit are always available from the Community Services Office at 623-386-1112 or via email to [email protected].

The COMPARISON OF ESTRELLA JOINT COMMITTEE AND STARPOINTE OPERATIONS TO 2011 APPROVED BUDGETS docu-ment is available on the Life in Estrella website. After logging on to the website, go to the HOA Document Library under the Homeowners Association section. The document is with the 2011 Estrella Operational Budget documents and should be available at the end of the month follow-ing each quarter end.


eSTrellA

on your doorstepThree rivers Historical Society Seeking recipes

SubmITTeD bY SAllY KIKo, eSTrellA reSIDenT

The Three Rivers Historical Society is seek-ing recipes for a Centennial Cookbook that will be entitled “A Taste of History.” The purpose of the cookbook is to help celebrate Arizona’s Centennial and raise funds for the historical society’s centen-nial project, an easily accessible ADA loop trail at Estrella Region Park. The half-mile trail will

feature historical markers, benches and approximately ten exhibit nodes describing the history of the Estrella Mountains and the development of the park as well as the history of the Hohokam people, early settlers and their ways of life. The project is a partnership between Three Rivers Historical Society, Maricopa County Parks and Recreation Department, and Arizona Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects.

So, guys and gals send us your favorite recipe and be a part of this project. Recipes from all categories are welcome, whether a classic comfort food favorite, beverages; hot or cold, or a new health-conscious recipe. We expect to have the cookbook available for sale in February 2012. You don’t need to be a member of the historical society, it’s a community cookbook. Please send recipes by email to Linda Wyman, [email protected]. Or mail to:

Sally Kiko, 11383 S. Oakwood Dr, Goodyear, AZ 85338

Deadline for recipes is August 29, 2011.

The Three Rivers Historical Society is made up of dedicated volunteers who are preserving the history of the Southwest Valley in the greater Phoenix area. The cities of Avondale, Goodyear, Litchfield Park and Tolleson have grown at the confluence of the Agua Fria, Salt and Gila rivers. We offer meetings and public exhibits - collect artifacts, photos and rare documents - and have an active program to record oral and written personal and family histories. To learn more about this group of volunteers, guest speakers and upcoming events, visit www.threerivershistoricalsocietyaz.org.

Sun Damage and Your HomeSubmITTeD bY: ConSIDer IT fInISHeD PAInTInG

The Arizona heat can quickly fade accent colors on the outside of a home. The garage doors, trim work, pop outs, front door, and shutters are all vulnerable to sun damage. If the body of the house paint is in good shape, painting just the accent colors can make a big difference in the look of your home and will quickly make your home look like new again; taking these small steps costs a fraction of the price to paint the entire exterior of the house. If you’re considering some touch ups on paint this summer, contact a licensed contractor. Consider It Finished Painting can help. 623-221-2204.

The Clubhouse- offered by Phoenix Children’s Academy

Imagine the convenience of having your child picked up from school, with a clubhouse destina-tion, where they can engage in some fun activi-ties with friends and be assisted with homework before coming home to dinner. The clubhouse program, offered by Phoenix Children’s Academy offers a before and after school program to accom-plish these dreams. Your child can enjoy partici-pating in a high-quality school-age program, on school holidays and on early dismissal days. Best yet, Phoenix Children’s Academy provides daily, private transportation to and from our neighbor-hood schools.

The clubhouse program encourages your child’s success as he or she seeks to develop a sense of self. The Phoenix Children’s Academy’s lesson plans and activities are designed to support the individual needs of children’s interests, whether they include technology, science, sports, arts, reading, organized games or just some individualized quiet time. Outdoor recreation is incorporated as part of the fun, as well.

If this program sounds like a situation that your child could benefit from this school year, contact Phoenix Children’s Academy, located at 17670 W. Elliot Rd at 602-396-5990 or visit www.pcapreschool.com for more infor-mation on this before and after school program for school-aged children from kindergarten to twelve years of age.

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) and MOPs-next registration begins

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) is a nation-wide organization that brings mothers and their newborn babies to kindergarten age children together within their own communities, offering the support that young mothers need during those foundational early years of motherhood. MOPS-Next is a continuation of the program, serving mothers of children who have entered the elementary school years of schooling. Both groups meet at Estrella Mountain Church and will accept registration forms, begin-ning August 14. Registration forms can be obtained online at the church’s website emcaz.org and can be found under the ministries section. Forms can be turned in at the church office or emailed to Denise Watkins at [email protected]. Both groups are scheduled to meet every other Monday from 9:00 to 11:00 am, beginning September 12. For more information on the MOPS program, visit their website at MOPS.org.

open House Scheduled-mountain ranch family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dr. Rolfe and his team at Mountain Ranch Family & Cosmetic Dentistry are celebrating their one-year anniversary in the Estrella com-munity with an Open House scheduled for Saturday, September 10. The public is invited to attend. This Open House is scheduled from 10:00 am-1:00 pm. Food and prize drawings will be awarded throughout the event with a Grand Prize raffle for an iPad. beat the heat

SubmITTeD bY KurT HAnKe, HAnDYmAn XTreme

HOT HOT HOT! August in Arizona...yikes! Are you and your family looking for some ways to cool off? Handyman Xtreme has com-piled a list of 10 cool things for families to do to Beat the Heat:

1. Enjoy a refreshing dip in Starpointe’s pool

2. Visit a local water park

3. Drive to the mountains and enjoy the cool breezes and scenery

4. Sip lemonade on your back patio with misters and fans going

5. Catch a flick

6. Walk the mall (mothers of teen-agers, it’s best to leave your pock-

Enjoy your month from Handyman Xtreme!

etbook at home)

7. Put some culture in your life...visit an art museum or the Arizona Science Center

8. Celebrate the arts by watching a live performance

9. Family Food Time- prepare a meal or dessert together

10. Visit Hawaii...very funny kids! ;)

Slip N’ Slide into Fall with Phoenix Children’s Academy!

What better way to cool o� on a hot day than sliding down a slip and slide.

Saturday, August 6th 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Come experience free fun for the whole family!

Ice Cream Sundaes Splash Pad Fun & Games

Dance Floor & Music Slip & Slide

Goodyear 17670 W. Elliot Rd. (Estrella Pkwy. & Elliot Rd.)

602.396.5990www.pcapreschool.com

ENJOY LAST YEAR’S TUITION RATES! Enroll today. Limited time offer.

We now o�er extended hours for part-time schedules.


eSTrellA

on your doorstep

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

kim@myhometown-

estrella.com.

We look forward to

sharing your story with

the community!

community survey coming soon

The EJC Communications Committee, Capital Consultants Management Corporation, along with each of the Estrella Joint Committees, the Voting Member Committee and the Elected Board Members will be conducting a community-wide survey early this fall. The survey will be available on-line at the com-munity website www.lifeinestrella.com on September 7.

The purpose of this survey is for insight and evaluation of how effectively the above-mentioned committees and Board Members are serving the Estrella community. Your responses are extremely impor-tant and will help determine areas of excellence as well as the need for possible improvements, to best serve this community.

We hope that you will take a few moments to participate by offer-ing your input in a timely manner. You will have until September 30 to complete and submit your responses, comments and recommendations. A high response rate is key to legitimizing survey results. Your view-points will help each of the committees, the management company and elected Board members determine overall satisfaction of community service, as well as establish areas that should be addressed for improve-ments that you would like to see put into play. The survey will be comprehensively designed and simplistic. Prompt completion of the survey offers a possible reward from Capital Consultants Management Corporation.

Please save a few moments on your September calendars and plan to participate. Completion of this brief, important survey takes approximately 15 minutes – the same time you take to sip your first cup of morning coffee. Your responses will plant seeds of wisdom, assuring that Estrella continues to be a great place to live. The results of this survey will be published in the December issue of My Hometown Estrella.

Goodyear In ACTIon- Water Slides & Autographs

Goodyear In ACTION is gearing up for its end of the summer event, Water Slides & Autographs. This event is free of charge to the public and features a

‘Special Guest’ this month! Mark your calendar for Saturday, August 6 from 10am-noon. The cool fun takes place at Primrose School at Palm Valley, 14260 West Indian School Road, Goodyear, AZ 85395. What a great way to end summer vacation with a water slide, splashy bouncy and a variety of water games. Bring your towel, bathing suit and even bring a friend! Come enjoy some fun in the sun! There will be a special guest appearance by players from our very own Cincinnati Reds - don’t miss the opportunity to add to your collection of autographs! To learn more about Goodyear In ACTION visit www.goodyearinaction.com

Goodyear Small biz Social

On August 1, and every first Monday of the month, small business owners are networking and exchanging ideas at the Goodyear Small Biz Social. The group meets at Paradise Bakery located at 15479 W. McDowell Rd. on Pebble Creek Parkway and McDowell Rd. Meeting time is 10:00 am – noon. This group is open to business owners, entrepreneurs and busi-ness professionals. This easy-going, fun group of individuals is nonexclusive (meaning multiple repair persons, insurance agents and hair dressers are welcome). Meetings include a ‘show and tell’ type format, where products and samples can be displayed. Entrepreneurs and business people alike are invited to visit the group meeting at no obligation. For more information visit www.goodyearaz.gov or AzSmallBizSocialMeetup.com


eSTrellA

on your doorstep

The Estrella Joint Committee Board of Directors chartered the Landscape Committee earlier this year. The group consists of seven Estrella homeowners that share a common interest in facilitating improvements to common area landscaping and aesthetics. Volunteer Committee members bring a wide range of professional experience and expertise to the table.

The Committee currently meets once each month with additional informal work group meetings regularly scheduled. The group is engaged in several important common area projects and the aggressive pursuit of improvements to the landscaping at Estrella.

The first order of business involved a careful review of the current land-scape maintenance contract. This was initiated with ongoing field reviews to assure that agreement terms are properly followed. For the most part, the Committee believes that we have a very good specification agreement docu-ment that more than adequately upholds the interests of association own-ers. The Committee is currently working with the Management Company, CCMC, to develop specifications to be included in a new landscape contract that shall be rebid later this year.

Landscape Committee activities have also included the development of a community wide replanting plan that focuses, as a first phase effort, on the restoration of community marquee landscapes to their original designs. This re-vegetation project encompasses the areas around marquees or the signage

that uniquely identifies each Estrella community. The project is scheduled to begin this fall and in most cases includes landscaping on both sides of the entry roadways leading into each community. Other re-vegetation projects are planned for the future and will be broader in scope. In addi-tion to new planting projects, the Committee is also working with the management company to promote a “best practices” approach to current maintenance activities. This will assure that existing plant materials thrive and continue to flourish along with future plantings.

The Committee’s long term goal is to significantly improve the over-all aesthetics of the community and to accomplish this without increasing the landscape maintenance budget. Adding specificity and new mainte-nance guideline requirements that promote more vegetation growth will be paramount to attaining this goal, the Committee believes. Developing sound “best maintenance practices” will together enable us to achieve a sustainable landscape design that will be functional, cost effective and beautiful to look at!

All meetings are open to our residents. For information on the scheduled meetings, agendas and minutes please check www.Lifeinestrella.com under the Committees tab.

The Landscape Committee always appreciates and encourages feedback.

What Is Happening In Your Community estrella landscape Committee – Community forum Article

The following twelve goals, proposed by the Elected Resident Directors, with the support of the Management Company and Newland Communities, were approved by the EJC Board of Directors on May 24, 2011:

Objective: Continuously improve the Estrella community as a quality place to live and recreate by enhancing administrative processes; financial efficiencies; safety/security; community esthetics; resident communications; community services and by promoting community spirit.

1) Apply best business practices for the use of assessments. Continuously challenge and monitor operating budgets expenditures.

2) Maintain equitable and timely enforcement of community covenants as reflected in Community Handbook ensuring community standards are upheld.

3) Competitively bid common area landscaping contract (s) with a focus on enhancing aesthetics, ongoing performance management and cost effec-tiveness.

4) Continuously maintain a community-wide action item list, monitoring issues presented to Board including progress on 2011 community goals.

5) Implement all Starpointe Residents Club related 2011 Reserve Fund projects on time and on budget (source data from Operational Plan dated April 8, 2011).

Project Board Approval Complete Project

Pool Deck Repair/Refurbishment 01/25/2011 03/15/2011

Light House Repair/Repainting/Stairs 01/25/2011 04/29/2011

Patio Umbrellas - Refurbish 03/22/2011 04/29/2011

Lobby Upholstery - Repair 04/26/2011 05/30/2011

Commercial Refrigerator - Replace 04/26/2011 05/16/2011

Big Dipper – Repaint 03/28/2011 04/22/2011

Pool Pumps – Refurbish 03/10/2011 03/13/2011

Café Monitor - Replace 04/26/2011 05/16/2011

6) Implement Common Area 2011 Reserve Fund Programs on time and on budget (source data from Operational Plan dated April 8, 2011).

(We regret that in last month’s issue of My Hometown Estrella, we failed to list all of the twelve priority goals scheduled for our community. The following article lists those goals in their entirety. )

estrella Community 2011 High Priority Goals

Project Board Approval Complete Project

Acid Injection System 02/28/2011

Ornamental Light Poles 04/26/2011 12/31/2011

Starpointe Ornamental Light Poles 07/26/2011 09/02/2011

Common Area Granite Replenishment 04/26/2011 08/31/2011

Common Area Wall and Fence Repainting 08/23/2011 12/31/2011

South Lake Basketball Court Resurfacing 07/26/2011 09/30/2011

South Lake Tennis Court Resurfacing 07/26/2011 09/30/2011

Common Area Concrete Repairs 08/23/2011 10/21/2011

Tree Removal/Replacement 08/23/2011 12/31/2011

Yacht Club Area Paint 08/23/2011 12/02/2011

Landscape Contract 08/23/2011 09/01/2011

Security Cameras 08/23/2011 12/16/2011

7) Conduct comprehensive annual community surveys of homeowner satis-faction for all services provided by Management Company.

8) Implement marquee entrances landscaping project plan that was provided by the Ad Hoc Landscaping Committee in November 2010.

9) Work in concert with all Boards to reduce staff turnover to levels consis-tent with other CCMC locations.

10) Provide full and part-time administrative offices and Starpointe staff with annual customer relationship training.

11) Improve communication regarding community committees and activi-ties.

12) Reassess Governing Document relative to “Membership” and “Guest Fees” to ensure they are fair to Residents, while, at the same time, providing appropriate remuneration for direct and overhead expenses incurred on behalf of guests.

Summary: The Elected Resident Directors, the Estrella Joint Committee, Management Company and chartered Standing Committees will monitor and report to the residents the status related to attainment of these goals. Additional details and progress reports will be posted on the community web site beginning July 1, 2011.


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

8:30–9:20am Powerball (Kim Hopkins)

8:10–9:00am Total Body Conditioning (Dawn Terry) - Resumes 8/23

8:30–9:20am Powerball (Kim Hopkins)

8:10-9:00amTotal Body Conditioning(Dawn Terry)- Resumes 8/23

9:00–10:20am Yoga (Linda Jojola)

8:15–9:15amZumba Fitness (S. Miller)

9:30–10:30am Cardio Splash (Kim Hopkins)



3:30–4:20pm Karate 4–7 (Kevin Bench)


9:30–10:20am Ballet I (Linda Purdy)

5:00–5:50pm Taekwondo (Master Barton)

3:30–4:20pmKarate 4-7 (Kevin Bench)


4:30–5:20pm Karate 7 & up (Kevin Bench)

5:00–5:50pm Taekwondo (Master Barton)

10:30–11:15am Pre-Ballet (Linda Purdy)

6:30–7:20pm Cardio Splash (Kim Hopkins)

4:30–5:20pmKarate 7 & up (Kevin Bench)

5:00–5:50pm Ballet II (Linda Purdy)

6:00–6:50pm Yoga (Linda Jojola)

11:30am–12:20pm Pre-Ballet (Linda Purdy)

7:00–7:50pm Step & Pump (Linda Jojola)

6:00–6:50pmYoga (Linda Jojola)

6:00–6:50pm Ballet I (Linda Purdy)

7:00–8:00pmZumba Fitness (Susan Miller)

12:30-1:30pm Beginning Jazz, 6-12 yrs. (Tanya Moreno)

7:00–8:00pmMaximum Muscle (Bonnie Jansson)

6:30–7:20pm Cardio Splash (Kim Hopkins)

12:30pm-1:30pmJazz/Hip Hop Combo 6yr-12yr (Tanya Moreno)

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

WeeKlY eVenTS

Adult men’s basketball (estrella mountain

elementary School) 8am

www.emrball.weebly.com

leroy baca 623-388-4047

WeeKlY eVenTS


elementary School) 7pm, leroy baca, 623-388-4047 www.emrball.weebly.com

bridge, 1–4pm

contact Carl Deierling 623-237-3312 or

Karen Stolp 623-271-8292

WeeKlY eVenTS

nothing Scheduled

WeeKlY eVenTS

Playgroup, 9:30–11:30am

contact nicole Yontz 602-400-8373

Poker/Games, 1pm contact Al Wolfson

623-328-0118

bridge, 6pm contact Carl Deierling at

623-237-3312 or Karen Stolp

623-271-8292

WeeKlY eVenTS


elementary School) 7pm, leroy baca, 623-388-4047 www.emrball.weebly.com

Games, Games, Games 6pm

Alcoholics Anonymous

7pm, estrella mtn. Church, rm 202 Contact Jerry r, 408-505-1326

WeeKlY eVenTS

resident Coffee Social 8:30–10am

WeeKlY eVenTS

Adult Golf Clinic, 8am

Golf Club of estrella 623-386-2600

1 2emr business Group

8am

landscape Committee

10am

3ladies of the lake

1pm

Cruise night at estrella

At mountain ranch marketplace- 6pm

Trails Committee meeting- 6:30pm

4Crafts & Stuff

9am

Photo Club

7pm

5 6

7 8Trivia

6:30pm

9 10estrella book Club- 10am

Voting member Committee meeting

6:30pm

11

Communications Committee

5pm

12 13Classic Car Club

9am

Travel Club- 11am

VIT-($5.00 refundable deposit) 11am

14 15 16Social Committee

meeting

5pm

17Cruise night at estrella

At mountain ranch marketplace

6pm

Photo Club

7pm

18Crafts & Stuff

9am

budget finance Committee

6pm

19A.e.f.P

Adult education fitness Program

5:30pm

20Cocktails &

Conversations

7pm

21Scrapbooking

10am

22 23Crafts & Stuff

9am

board of Directors meeting

6:30pm

24 25Quiddler- 1pm

bingo- 6pm

26 27

28 29bunco

6pm

30 31

AuGuST 2011

classes, clubs, meetingsStarpointe residents Club Program

PleASe noTe: events take place at Starpointe residents Club unless otherwise noted. for all Starpointe events, please call 623-386-1949. Please see www.lifeinestrella.com for a comprehensive calendar of events and to be included in reminders/changes related to upcoming events.


frIDAY, AuGuST 5

wacky wafflesfriday, August 5th8:30am to 10:00amStarpointe residents Club

What do you put on your waffles? berries and cream, bananas and nuts, or cherries and chocolate? We are setting up a Waffle bar at Starpointe August 5th for you to make your own wacky waffle creations. You can purchase your ticket in advance or at the door for $2 per resident and $7 for guests. Coffee and Juice will also be served.

monDAY, AuGuST 8

trivia nightmonday, August 8th6:30pmStarpointe residents Club

Trivia night is always the 2nd monday of the month at Starpointe. Get your four-person team together and test your general knowl-edge skills against last month’s winners. Don’t have a team? Don’t worry there is always a team in the making that you can join. In July, first place was taken by “In it for the Pizza”. Second place was awarded to “The Kings”, and “The Still Here’s” took third. The pizza is dished up at 6:30 pm. The cost is $5 per person, up to 4 people per team. Papa John’s Pizza, water, and soda will be provided. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes will be awarded. Please rSVP at Starpointe.

SATurDAY, AuGuST 20

cocktails & conversationsSaturday, August 20th Starpointe residents Club7:00pm to 9:00pm

College Days! We are celebrating the start of a new school year with a Starpointe frat Party. Put on you favor-ite college T-shirt and show your school spirit. no matter what your alma mater is, you are sure to have fun getting to know your neigh-bors while enjoying hot wings, beer and games. Get your tickets in advance at Starpointe for only $10 per person.

eSTrellA

hOA eventsTHurSDAY, AuGuST 25

Potluck bingo

Thursday, August 25th6:00pmStarpointe residents Club

b.I.n.G.o!! Starpointe will be hosting bingo night “potluck” style; bring your favorite dish and share with fellow residents. Potluck starts at 6:00 pm. Water, soda, and coffee will be provided. bingo Games will start promptly at 6:30 pm. The cost is $5 a card for 10 rounds (additional cards are $5). You must be 21 to play and win. The Preschooners Club will be open for your children to enjoy during bingo.

eVerY frIDAY

resident coffee socialevery friday8:30am to 10:00amStarpointe residents Club

our resident Coffee Social is a great way to get to know your neigh-bor over coffee and a continental breakfast. Join us every friday from 8:30am – 10:00am. As a special treat we will be hosting a Wacky Waffle bar on August 5th $2 per person.

SATurDAY, SePTember 3

summer send-Off water Park bash Saturday, September 3rd11:00am – 1:00pm

Celebrate the end of summer with a day of fun at the pool! There will be games, prizes, music and whole lot of splashing at this year’s Summer Send-off Water Park bash. Games will include Alligator Wrestling, Shaving Cream blast, Sponge races and more. Join your neighbors as we send summer off with a Splash!

SATurDAY, SePTember 24

Friday Annual Overnight camp OutSaturday, September 24th3:00pm – 8:00am South lake Pavillion

Dust off the tent and shake out the sleeping bags, it’s that time again! The Annual estrella Camp out. Come out and enjoy fishing, campfire songs, and s’mores with your neighbors. There will be food, games, and at the end of the night you can sleep under the stars. for safety, persons under the age of 18 muST be accompanied by an adult at all times. Check out www.lifeinestella.com for more information on this event.

4TH of JulY PArADe WrAP-uP

Cub Scout Troop 360 presented the flag and led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance. This presentation was followed by Hanna (pic-tured with her family) who then sang the national Anthem. There were a number of winners chosen at the parade. Among them: Ian macInnes - best Dressed man and...

Quinn Conlon - best Dressed Girl & bicycle award

4th of July Parade Hanna & family

The Comstock family & friends - Cake float

GCE_MyHmTwn_final.indd 1 5/8/08 12:07:25 PM

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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

starpointe residents club

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

Operating Hours:

Mon.–Th. 5:30am–9pm, Fri. 5:30am–8pm Sat. 8am–7pm, Sun. 10am–7pm

Youth Club Hours:Mon.-Fri. 3pm-8pmSat.and Sun. 1pm-6pm

Yacht club hours

Monday & Tuesday: 3pm-8pmWednesday: ClosedThursday & Friday: 3pm-8pm Saturday, Sunday, Holidays: 8am-12pm & 3pm-8pm623-386-3411

community Patrol’s Phone number

602-329-0462, 10pm - 4am (7 days a week)

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

Estrella Management Team Community Manager: Jerry Evans

Administrative Coordinator: Sharon Thunstedt

Operations Manager: Debbie Harper

Compliance Director/Design Review Coordinator: Jodi Matlock

VCA Compliance Coordinator: Amy Helms

Maintenance Crew Leader: Anthony DeGeronimo

Recreation Director: Dean Westover

Recreation Coordinator: Tammy Campbell

Lifestyle Director: Holly Aguilar

Yacht Club Coordinator: Jeff Beuthin

Maintenance Coordinator: Anthony DiGeronimo

Assessment billing Address:

Payment Processing Center

c/o CCMC-Western Region

PO Box 105260

Atlanta, GA 30348-5260 or pay online at www.ccmcnet.com.

community Association board Members:

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

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

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 contactSave the Date2011 Annual meetings will be Tuesday, September 27 starting at 6:30 p.m. at the estrella foothills High School Performing Arts building. The eCA and VCA meetings will be held on the same evening followed by a general open forum session for all residents for each association.

At this year’s annual meeting, VCA homeowners will elect two resident members to the board of Directors. We hope to see you there.

Euphorbia supina, or prostrate spurge, is a low-growing weed that forms a dense mat often found under other plants. Spurge is native to the United States and has a shallow taproot and stems that exude a milky white sap. Spurge leaves are small, opposite each other on the stems, green or red and often have purple spots. This weed ger-minates and thrives in dry, hot climates and tolerates some shade, but prefers direct sunlight. Like any other opportunistic weed, it takes advantage of disturbed soils or stressed turf areas.

Spurge is a late-germinating, summer annual with small and inconspicuous flowers. Spurge blooms any-time between the months of June and October. A single spurge plant is capable of producing thousands of seeds each flowering cycle.

Control without ChemicalsBecause spurge has a relatively shallow taproot, it is

easy to remove manually from granite areas and planters. Infested turf areas are more difficult to control manually simply because young spurge plants are hard to spot among blades of grass. The best way to deter spurge in turf is to encourage turf density through proper watering and fertilization.

Control with ChemicalsSpraying spurge with an herbicide is the easiest way

to control this troublesome weed in turf areas. However,

you have to use the correct herbicide in the cor-rect landscape area. Roundup is safe and widely available at any home improvement store; how-ever, Roundup can only be sprayed on spurge in granite areas. Simply follow the instructions on the label making sure not to spray Roundup on spurge growing in turf. Roundup is a nonselective

systemic killer, which means plants or grasses absorb the chemical into their root system and the chemical cannot differentiate between plants you want and weeds.

To kill spurge growing in turf areas, use an herbicide that targets broadleaf weeds, such as Amine 4. These types of herbicides can only be applied by an Arizona Office of Pest Management Licensed Pest Applicator. To find a company with a Licensed Applicators, visit http://www.sb.state.az.us/CompanyDirectory.php.

DLC Resources is committed to the Estrella Community Association. If you see landscape issues in the common area, please notify Community Management, so that any questions and concerns can be addressed.

For a monthly landscape update on the Estrella common areas, visit www.lifeinestrella.com and sign in to the resident portal. Click on ‘Groups’ and then ‘Join Now’ under the Common Area Landscaper group. We’ve got loads of articles to help answer some of your landscaping questions as well as specific updates on what is going on at your community.

A Troublesome WeedDlC reSourCeS, Your Common AreA lAnDSCAPerS

School ZoneYes, it is back to school for the kids. reminder: Slow down in school zones. estrella and Westar elementary Schools return to academics on Wednesday, August 3. be aware of crossing guards, children on foot, bikes, scooters, and skateboards. not to mention, parents dropping off children in parking lots. Thank you.

Estrella landscape Recognition Program

9951 S. 183rd lane mary Joyce

18362 W Piedmont rd

11355 S Hopi St. lynn Hoyt

18473 Paseo Way


WHo Are THe

people in your neighborhood

Bike riding; motorcycles; kayaking and sail boating on Estrella’s North Lake, these are all new-found hobbies of new residents Kevin, Shana, Nathan, Alyssa, Kevin Jr. and Jahneya Lyons. “Sail boating is new to us, so we gave it a try after sever-al lessons from Jeff at the Yacht Club,” said Shana. “And Nathan loved kayaking, so he tried extra hard not to tip over in North Lake… oops he fell in!” While Kevin and Shana enjoy riding their Harley, their youngest, Jahneya, recently celebrated the removal of the training wheels on her bicycle and loves riding on two wheels every chance she gets. Nathan lives for playing basketball and played on a city league championship team last year. Shana describes Alyssa as a little ‘book worm,’ and Kevin Jr. as a skateboarding enthusiast.

The Lyons family comes to Arizona from New Mexico in order for Kevin to attend the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute for Harley Davidson. While house searching online, Shana was directed to our community website – lifeinestrella.com – helping the family quickly discover that their hearts were set on Estrella. Soon thereafter, they came to see things for themselves and quickly decided that this is the place where their children could benefit, the family could share laughter and grow closer, as well as a place they could all call home. “We like the variety of family activities and we plan to take full advantage of them,” says Shana. They are also excited about the good news

the lyons Family- Kevin, Shana, nathan, Alyssa, Kevin Jr. and Jahneya

they’ve received regarding local schools that the children will be attending in Estrella.

Kevin and Shana have been small business owners since 2005. They bring Lyon’s Den Carpet Cleaning local, specializing in steam carpet cleaning as well as auto detailing, using child and pet-friendly products that are free of perfumes and dyes.

The Lyons family loves to eat Mexican food. Coming from the Hatch green chili capital, New Mexico, has spoiled their taste buds for south of the border recipes. Kevin can cook many great dishes and Shana adds that

there is always fresh salsa in the refrigerator at their house. When they’re not exploring the amenities of Estrella, this family settles in for game of Monopoly at their kitchen table.

Because this family is busy settling into their new home and community, they won’t be traveling anywhere this summer. However, they have invited family from New Mexico to visit Estrella. “We can’t tell them enough about this community and area, so they have decided to come and see what all the hype is and experience it for themselves,” said Shana. She added that she does have extended family here in Arizona, and that they were excited to get reconnected with them.

Gentle Dentistry& Orthodontics

623-848-0100www.charlesclausendds.com

CHARLES CLAUSEN, DDS, PC

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“I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. I started with my daughter for orthodontics. I was so impressed

with his care and his staff that I have taken all of my kids and rec-ommend to other friends and family. From the receptionist to the hygienist, they greet you warmly and make you feel comfortable.

He doesn’t try to get you to have more dental care than is necessary to insure your dental health as I have experienced at other

dentists in the Phoenix area.” - tlbuttars

“I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now. “I have been going to Dr. Clausen for about 7 or 8 years now.

This is not an offer in states and jurisdictions where prior registration is required and void where prohibited by law. No offer for sale or lease can be made and no offer to purchase can be accepted prior to issuance of the final Arizona Public Report. A public report is available on the Arizona state real estate department website located at www.re.state.az.us. JCH Construction LLC. ROC 256789. Copyright ©2011 All rights reserved. CantaMia, Younger Next Year Community, YNY and AVATAR are the exclusive trademarks and service marks of Avatar Properties Inc.

An APS Energy Star Community Open Daily 9am-6pm 623-474-6960

Innovative Active Adult Living at Estrella, Goodyear, AZ. I-10 to Estrella Parkway, south 14 miles to the community

From the s 101303

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Join us for a selection of Spanish Tapas, Red and White Sangria, accompanied by the sounds of a Flamenco guitar.

Evening of MusicCantaMia® Invites You To A

Saturday, August 27 6pm - 8pm $3.00 event fee for non-CantaMia residentsCantaMia Village Center, 17700 West Star Point Drive, Goodyear, AZ 85338

CantaMia is the place for active adult living in Estrella, offering sustainability as a comfortable and creative way of living, where you and nature are connected and mutually enhanced.

CantaMia.com

Each office independently owned and operated.

Community Opportunities:

Sunday Worship: 9:00 & 10:45 am

Wednesday: Service 2.5 resumes August 10! Begins at 6:48 pm

Friday: TREK (Jr. High) 7-9 pm

Sunday: Threshold (High School) 6-8 pm

www.emcaz.org 623.386.0300

Church Office Hours: Mon. –Thurs. 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Fri. 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

Estrella Mountain Pre-school Phone: 623.476.5578

Website: www.empreschool.com

Creative Arts Academy Website: www.caa-az.org

10485 S. Estrella Parkway

Celebration of Children

Sunday, August 21

Heart Matters Join us as our children lead us into the

Father’s arms Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me.

Don't stop them, because the kingdom of heaven belongs to people who are like these

children." Matthew 19:14

Deb Fahey“The Redesigning Woman”

623-271-8372deb@maplevalleyinteriors.comwww.maplevalleyinteriors.com

Design in a DayDesign in a Day

BeforeMaple Valley Interiors

AfterMaple Valley Interiors

We come prepared with a “complete” color file and an extensive selection of color fan decks, so we can make the paint choice that’s right for you.

Let us find those special pieces to complete your space. And we’ll do it within your budget.

We’ll transform your space in just one day. We make the most of your existing furnishings. Dramatic results on your budget.

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What better way to cool o� on a hot day than sliding down a slip and slide.

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Come experience free fun for the whole family!

Ice Cream Sundaes Splash Pad Fun & Games

Dance Floor & Music Slip & Slide

Goodyear 17670 W. Elliot Rd. (Estrella Pkwy. & Elliot Rd.)

602.396.5990www.pcapreschool.com

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cOMMunitY liFEstYlE: FAMilY

bY AnDY rAGone, reSIDenT of eSTrellA, DAD AnD PASTor of “ InSIDeouT” YouTH felloWSHIP

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is a gorgeous fun spot situated high above Colorado Springs. The views are breathtaking, and the exhibits are cool. As Vee and I walked around the animal environments, we happened upon a pet-ting area. In the corner stood a young boy and his dad feeding the pygmy goats with food purchased from a dispenser nearby. A special father/son moment, right? Yes…that is until the son started getting worked over by a pack of hungry goats. In an effort to keep the goats from gnawing his hand along with the food, the panic-stricken child raised his arm as high as he could, keeping the food away. It didn’t work. The goats used his chest as a plank to give them the leverage needed to get to the food. The boy, in tears, didn’t know what to do.

Dad to the rescue…The boy’s father, standing next to him, watched his son go through the ordeal, providing him with what would appear to be a coachable moment. In beautiful fashion, dad ridiculed his son for not know-ing what to do in this crisis. In a charged voice, dad expressed his disappoint-

Parents Instilling Valuesment and proceeded, with the sound of experience, to instruct him the correct way to feed the goats. Impatient with the boy’s inexperience, dad snatched the food from his son’s outstretched arm and went to another part of the petting area con-tinually coaching how to feed the animals. Unfortunately, he locked himself in a corner where the fairly assertive goats went after him! When the pressure was on, coach dad “hail mary-ed” the play by stretching out his arm high above his head. Determined to get to the food, the goats charged and used his chest as a plank just as they did with the boy. I really wished I had a video camera.

Isn’t it ironic? The thing I speak against becomes the very thing I end up doing. On one hand, it means that I aspire to create a culture of high expecta-tions of those around me, but it also means that I’d better authentically model the behavior I claim to value. This also means I’d better know what I am talking about before I coach others. When I don’t, what does that make me? Yup, you’re reading the confessions of a genuine hypocrite. Sounds oxymoronic, doesn’t it?

In honesty, we all engage in hypocrisy, but that isn’t where we want to stay. We don’t wake up in the morning thinking, “Hey, how can I be a better hypocrite?” Instead we aspire to be upright, gracious human beings. When those fallen-from-grace moments occur, they will most likely be the very mess-ups our kids use against us when they spot them. This becomes the excuse they point at in order to justify their own fallen-from-grace moments.

When we work diligently to become the people we aspire to be, then those around us will slowly see that we’re the real deal. When they see the real us, then they will become freshly motivated to make healthier choices in their own lives.

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ADV-MyHometown-May2011.pdf 1 5/18/11 9:16 PM

cOMMunitY liFEstYlE: FitnEss

Allergies in ChildrenThis time of year, I often get many questions regarding allergies.

Allergies in children are very common. If your family has a strong history of allergies, then your children may inherit the possibility of allergies. Allergies can manifest as many common conditions, like eczema, asthma, allergic rhinitis, or even food allergies.

Allergic rhinitis (or “seasonal allergies”) is typically characterized by an itchy, runny nose, sneezing, and nasal congestion, along with post-nasal drip. Your child may have itchy, watery and red eyes. It is important to realize that allergies do not cause fever.

These symptoms can be exactly the same as certain viral infections, which often clouds the picture. Usually, viral infections cause a fever. Children less than two years old are more likely to be suffering from a viral illness if they have both a fever and the symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

Allergies are the most common cause of chronic nasal congestion in children. Sometimes a child’s nose is congested (blocked) to the point that he or she breathes through the mouth, especially while sleeping. This may also cause the child to not get a restful night’s sleep and then be tired the next day. If the congestion and mouth breathing are left untreated, they can cause abnormal changes to the way the teeth and the bones of the face grow. Early treatment of the allergies causing the nasal congestion may prevent these problems.

Allergy and ear infectionsAllergies lead to inflammation in the ear and may cause fluid accumulation

that can promote ear infections and decreased hearing. If this happens when the child is learning to talk, poor speech development may result. Allergies can cause earaches as well as ear itching, popping and fullness (“stopped up ears”). Anyone with these symptoms should be considered for testing and treatment.

Allergies at schoolIf your child has asthma or severe allergy, provide your child’s action plan

for emergencies to the school nurse or administrative office. Also, discuss your child’s access to medication in case of an emergency. Furry animals in school may cause problems for allergic children. Physical education and sports are a big part of the school day for many children. Having asthma does not mean eliminating these activities. Children with asthma and other allergic diseases should be able to participate in any sport the child chooses, provided the doc-tor’s advice is followed. Asthma symptoms during exercise may indicate poor control.

Diagnosis of allergies is unfortunately difficult. Blood tests are not very reliable, since they lack accuracy. Findings during the medical exam also are not reliably distinct, and may lead to the wrong conclusion. Skin scratch test-ing (allergy skin testing) is much more accurate, and pretty easy to perform in the office. Results with skin scratch testing are available within 15 minutes, and are a lot less painful than drawing blood. Early identification of allergy problems in your child will improve their quality of life, decrease missed school days and keep you at work.

SubmITTeD bY rAJ S. PATel, m.D. , PeDIATrICIAn, eSTrellA fAmIlY meDICAl

Friendly, Exceptional care to keep your family’s health… for life

750 N. Estrella Parkway, Suite 20 Goodyear, AZ 85338 In the Canyon Trails Professional Building

Blood Pressure

Special Promotion Sports & School Physicals

$25.00 ($45.00 value)

Waist Size Weight

Cholesterol Fasting Blood Sugar

Monday - Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Same Day Appointments Walk-ins Welcomed Accepting New Patients Most Major Insurance Plans Accepted

www.estrellafamilymedical.com

Special Offer $50.00 Reg. $80.00 Adult Medicine

& Pediatrics

Sports/School Physicals

Women’s Health Care of Diabetes &

Chronic Illnesses Newborn Exams Immunizations

Raj Patel, MD Board Eligible Pediatrician

Jeanette Cruz, MD Board Certified Family Physician

Owned & Operated by Estrella Mountain Ranch Residents


businEss dirEctOrY

Quality Pool Service and Repairs, Complete Weekly

Service, Equipment Repairs/Sales, Acid Wash,

Drain/Refill.

XPRESS POOL SERVICE

Patrick Pace623-853-6859

[email protected]

16 Year Estrella Homeowner

Eve’s CreationsLong Arm Quilting

Eve Buboltz(623) 386-3106 phone

[email protected]

Locate in the Safeway Shopping Center530 N. Estrella Pkwy, Ste C-1

Goodyear, AZ(623) 932-9211

http://estrellachiropractic.chiroweb.com

$50 Exam,

X-Ray &

Adjustment

$40 1- Hour Massage

ESTRELLA PKWYCHIROPRACTIC

Specific Gentle Care

We Watch Your Home While You’re AwayGoodyear HomeWatch

Debbie Hudson Owner623-225-9560877-318-5351

[email protected] for a customized list of services

COMPUTER REPAIRS

HOME THEATER SERVICE EMR resident

duVal Goley

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

Burton’s Bead Blasting& Pool Service

Tile & Pebbletec CleaningWeekly Full Service

Paul LooneyP.O. Box 2067Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

623-986-1450

Christian Preschool

Quality Education

Excellent Reputation

3 Year Old and Pre-K Programs

Low Teacher to Student Ratio

Experienced Teachers

10485 S. Estrella Pkwy Goodyear, AZ 85338

(623) 476-5578 www.empreschool.com

• Water Heaters• Slab Leaks• Water Leaks• Toilet Repair• All Plumbing Repairs• Owner Operated

• Water Heaters

• All Plumbing RepairsROC Lic#138051

Licensed • Bonded • Insured • Long Warranties

POOLGUYAZComplete weekly pool care maintenance. New, remodel, equipment repair & installation, solar

heating & much more!$50 First month special (New Clients)

All credit/debt cards acceptedScott “The Poolguy” 623-986-1530


businEss dirEctOrY

CAN-DO MOVING Office & Residential

www.candomovingaz.com

Mike Brown

602-803-6350 [email protected]

All your protection under one roof ®.

It’s convenient, one-stop, one-agent shopping with American Family. We offer reliable multi-line coverage for Auto, Home, Business, Health and Life Insurance.*

Kathryn J Roberts, Agent

15655 W Roosevelt St, #101Goodyear, AZ 85338(623) [email protected]

American Family Mutual Insurance Companyand its SubsidiariesAmerican Family Insurance CompanyHome Office — Madison, WI 53783amfam.com

© 2008 14872 — Rev. 11/08






© 2008 14872 — Rev. 11/08






© 2008 14872 — Rev. 11/08

Itʼs convenient and friendly shoppingwith your American Family agent.Ask about our multi-line discounts.

Auto - Home - Business - Life• Competitive Rates • Quality Service

Call today for a free quote or no-obligation Personal Insurance Review. amfam.com






© 2008 14872 — Rev. 11/08


A NEW RESTAURANT...

Discover the Player’s Grill & Patio in the Golf Club of Estrella. Now Open for Dinner Every Friday and Saturday night.

We invite you to visit and enjoy our dinner specials like mouth-watering London Broil, fresh Tilapia or ripe Mango salad.

• Beautiful outdoor patio with lighted trees and romantic fire pits

• Spectacular Arizona sunset views

• Only restaurant in Estrella to serve distilled spirits

• Casual atmosphere, ideal for an evening with family and friends• Casual atmosphere, ideal for an evening with family and friends

Visit or Call for reservations.

Reservations recommended.

FREE DESSERT! estrellagolf.com623-386-2600Experience our unique setting

and wonderful food, and when you purchase two (2) dinner entrees, dessert is on us!

With Coupon. Expires 08-31-2011

RIGHT NEXT DOOR!

eSTrellA

business spotlight

When Betti Guenther moved to Goodyear, Arizona from a small town called Geneva, Illinois with her husband several years ago, she brought her love for sewing with her. She quickly realized however, that more things were different in the desert than the obvious terrain and temperatures. Elements of design and traditions were different here too. Those differences meant different sew-ing projects and a revision of her creations for her small business, Betti’s Custom Sewing. Within a few months after settling into her home in Estrella, she transformed her business cards and tailored her business to suit the wants and needs of Arizona customers.

In her small Illinois town, located outside of Chicago, she often special-ized in items such as memory quilts, bedding, table cloths, even doll clothing. She still loves creating these customized pieces, but has added new outdoor-friendly options, including different fabrics, furniture repair and reupholstery and made-to-order custom drapery to her list of customized services. Betti describes her sewing projects as “a therapeutic means of relaxing.” She has recently taken on projects helping neighbors and friends in the community update and design outdoor living areas with freshly covered cushions for a chaise lounge; new padded seating for outdoor wicker furniture; even bol-ster pillows with a new punch of color for a brand new look and feel in the backyard. Whether it’s replacing an outdated or sun-damaged fabric, or re-

covering a cushion chewed by a pet, Betti’s made old pieces new again. And those fabric umbrellas that we all love to use in our backyards as a means of providing additional shade? The fabric just can’t withstand more heat than a couple of brutal sum-mers can dish out. Betti’s Custom Sewing to the rescue! She’s repaired and recreated a number of outdoor umbrellas, bringing them back to life.

It has been eight years now, since Betty and her husband decided to follow their daughter to Arizona. She shared her story of sewing, dating back to when it first began in grade school, when it was offered as a course in school. While in junior

high school, Betti’s father bought Betti her very first sewing machine, a Sears Kenmore model. She kept the original, conventional machine through many years, using it to sew her children’s clothing, along with baby blankets and hooded towels for her grandkids. She now operates her small business with a more innovative machine, made by Viking.

Betti describes her sewing abilities as a means of enabling her to use all of her creative abilities. This creativity has helped her customers in Estrella with a variety of ‘fix-it’ projects, including ready-made draperies and valance trims, relieving customers from custom department store pricing. Betti brings ten years of experience in a drapery workroom to Arizona. She’s dedicated to working within budgets, offering individualized consultation and care. To contact Betti’s Custom Sewing, call 623-242-7877.

betti’s custom sewing

Elite Shutters & Blinds

ROC#211594www.EliteShuttersandBlinds.com

623.935.9484

Arizona’s Finest Window Coverings

Come Visit Our Goodyear Showroom!15479 W. McDowell Road, Suite 105

Goodyear, AZ 85395

West USA Realty Estrella

Located Next to Elliot Market ww

w.hom

etownestrella.com

WEST USA REALTY623-474-5900

ESTRELLA HOUSING DEMAND IS UP

ESTRELLA HOUSING INVENTORY IS DOWN

(623) 474-5900 HometownEstrella.com17750 W Elliot Rd, Ste 116, Goodyear, AZ 85338

Located Next To Shell Gas Station

We Can Save You

$$$ and Sell Yours!!

Can You Afford to Rent?

NEWSFLASH!

WE NEED YOUR HOMES!!!SHORT SALES, PRE-FORECLO-

SURES, TRADITIONAL REAL ESTATE WE CAN SELL THEM!!

Rents 1 Year

$12,000

$14,400

$18,000

5 Years

$1,000

$1,200

$1,500

$36,000

$43,200

$54,000

3 Years

$60,000

$72,000

$90,000

Average Sales Price Estrella $170,000. FHA 3.5% Down Payment. Monthly Payment = $1308.43

Contact InformationInformation Center: (623) 386-1000

Starpointe Residents Club: (623) 386-1949Yacht Club: (623) 386-3411

Golf Club of Estrella: (623) 386-2600LifeInEstrella.com

Estrella by Newland Communities10300 South Estrella Parkway, Goodyear, AZ 85338

*Homes in the Estrella community are constructed and sold by builders not affiliated with NNP III-Estrella Mountain Ranch, L.L.C, or Newland Communities, LLC, or Newland Communities, LLC’s affiliated companies (collectively, “Newland”). Newland does not guarantee or warrant the obligations of, or construction by, such builders, or the availability or pricing of homes. Access to, and use of, The Golf Club of Estrella is not included in the purchase of homes or homesites. Additional fees are required. ©2011 Newland Real Estate Group, LLC. Prices subject to change. Square footages are approximate. The Eco Friendly Package and the Closing Cost Package Program ("Promotion") is offered by Taylor Morrison Homes (the "Participating Builders") in the Estrella Community with regard to new home sales in the La Mirada and La Entrada neighborhoods and is exclusively sponsored by the Participating Builder who is solely responsible for the Promotion's content, implementation and operation. Please contact the Participating Builder for further information and requirements. Void where prohibited.

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 home sites. Visit Estrella.com or contact the Estrella Information Center at (623) 386-1000. Brokers welcome.*

Visit EstrellaTM Today

We’ve Made It HomeEstrella Residents Star in the New Community Campaign

Taylor Morrison is the August Home Builder of the Month and is currently offering the “Great Places” summer incentive program. Available now through September, Taylor Morrison home buyers can select from two fantastic packages - the Eco-Friendly Package which features top rated insulation, roofing system and air conditioning, as well as pre-wiring for Solar and is available only on new-build homes. The second option is the Closing Cost Package which allocates a percentage of the base price to final closing costs. In addition to both packages home buyers can inquire about the available Energy Bill Credit. This month’s featured model homes include the Arcadia and Mesquite floor plans. The Arcadia model found within the La Mirada neighborhood is a three bedroom plus den, 2254 square foot single story home. The great room layout features a formal dining room, large kitchen nook and spacious master suite.

The Mesquite floor plan ranges from 1897-2070 square feet and is found in both the La Miranda and La Entrada neighborhoods. The single story three bedroom home has an optional fourth bedroom and features a great room floor plan with large dining area and 10 foot ceilings.

Newly released mountain, wash and cul-de-sac lots are now available. For additional information, please contact Barry Merklin with Taylor Morrison at 623-518-3912 and visit the website at www.taylormorrison.com

August Builder of the Month – Taylor Morrison

This month you may see one of your neighbors in an unusual place if you stop by the Information Center or check the latest information on www.estrella.com. Starting in August the new marketing and advertising campaign promoting the way residents live in Estrella will debut, and many familiar faces have a starring role in telling the story of why they chose to call Estrella home. The new campaign is a result of months of interviews and surveys conducted in and around the community. Residents, real estate agents and past visitors to Estrella helped articulate what drives people to Estrella when choosing their next home. Many times the sentiment was the same – once they drove “up the hill” they knew they were entering a special place, a place unlike any other. The natural Sonoran desert gradually opens up to an oasis. The lakes, the Starpointe Residents Club, the Nicklaus Design golf course at the Golf Club of Estrella and the tree lined streets set the scene for a “paradise” - a picturesque resort-like community. From 19 year resident Amy Vasquez to the young Wright family originally from Tucson, Estrella offers a way of life not found anywhere else in the Valley. Their stories are just two of a handful of residents highlighted in the new campaign. Along with their stories, new photography was shot throughout the community from the Starpointe Residents Club, to the neighborhoods parks, private homes and Westar Elementary School. Log online to www.estrella.com and follow Estrella on Facebook to be the first to see the debut of the new advertising. Below are a few “outtakes” from the recent photo shoot at Estrella.

Arcadia -Den

Arcadia -La Mirada

Mesquite - La Mirada/La Entrada

Julie and Chris Wright relax in the shade during "bicycle block party" set up

Resident Amy Vasquez during an action shot

Documents

My Hometown Estrella - August 2011