The Grove is a free, monthly magazine produced by Estrella Publishing for the residents of Sterling Grove.
A magazine for Sterling Grove residents From Your Neighbors, For Your Neighbors ™ The Grove
February 2026
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Estrella Publishing - The Grove magazine
Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338.
Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor Talia Uretsky, Assistant Editor Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.398.5541 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
All contents © 2010-present Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the content of contributing writers and advertisers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion. Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.
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From Me To You... I don’t know about you but I am a devoted list maker. I believe deeply in the power of writing things down. Every morning, I sit at my desk with a fresh piece of paper, ready to conquer the day ahead. Groceries, appointments, that article deadline, the three emails I’ve been avoiding all week. It all goes on the list. I am organized. I am prepared. I am, for approximately sixty minutes, a functional adult. Sometimes I find my lists later in random places. In the washing machine, slightly damp and illegible. Wedged between the couch cushions with some popcorn kernels and loose change. Once, inexplicably, in the refrigerator next to the butter, I have no idea how that one happened.
Why not use my phone like a normal person, you say? Where’s the satisfaction in that? There’s something deeply gratifying about physically crossing items off a paper list. Plus, you can’t lose your phone in the refrigerator. Well, you can, but then you have bigger problems than finding a list. So I persist. Every morning, I make a new list. Every day, I lose it. And without fail you will find me in Fry’s trying to remember if we need milk, while wondering if this is just what being over fifty looks like. Catherine Uretsky Editor, The Grove Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.398.5541
And then I lose the list.
Not immediately, of course. That would be too simple. No, I lose it right when I need it most, usually while standing in the middle of Fry’s trying to remember if we’re out of milk or if I just saw milk in the fridge this morning. I check my purse. I check my pockets. I check my purse again because surely I missed it the first time. Nothing. The list has vanished into the same mysterious void that claims reading glasses, pens, and that mismatched sock. The irony is not lost on me. I make lists specifically to avoid forgetting things, and then I forget where I put the list. It’s like putting my keys in a special place so I won’t lose them and then forgetting where the special place is.
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Celebrate Love Valentine’s Day arrives each February with hearts, flowers, and a hefty dose of social media pressure. If you’re navigating this holiday without a romantic partner, the endless parade of couple photos and declarations can feel overwhelming. But here’s the truth: Valentine’s Day doesn’t belong exclusively to romantic relationships. It’s a celebration of love in all its forms. The Gift of Self-Love
Reach out. A simple phone call saying “I’m thinking of you” can transform someone’s entire day. In Arizona’s wonderful weather, consider organizing a hiking trip or backyard gathering with friends who are also flying solo. Some of the most memorable Valentine celebrations happen around tables full of laughter with people who truly know and love you. Redefining the Holiday The commercialized version of Valentine’s Day wants you to believe it’s only about romantic love. But love is so much bigger than that. It’s your best friend who always picks up the phone. It’s your parents who still send encouraging texts. It’s the neighbor who waves every morning. It’s you, choosing to show up for yourself with kindness. This Valentine’s Day, celebrate every form of love in your life, especially the relationship you have with yourself. That’s the love story that matters most.
This year, buy yourself the flowers. Literally or figuratively, treat yourself to something that brings joy. Maybe it’s fresh tulips for your kitchen table, that book you’ve been eyeing, or finally splurging on the comfortable reading chair you deserve. These acts of self-care aren’t indulgent; they’re essential reminders that your own happiness matters. Self-love isn’t selfish. It’s foundational. When we appreciate ourselves, we show up better for everyone else in our lives. You are worthy of celebration, partnership or not. Expanding Your Circle Valentine’s Day offers a beautiful opportunity to honor the people who fill your life with love beyond romance. Think about who else might be spending February 14th alone: your widowed grandmother, your single sibling, your college friend going through a breakup, or your adult children navigating their own relationship journeys.
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Happy Birthday AZ
Every February 14th, while the rest of the country celebrates Valentine’s Day, Arizona has an extra reason to party. On February 14, 1912, Arizona became the 48th state to join the United States, making it one of the youngest states in the nation. This year marks 113 years of statehood, and there’s plenty to celebrate about the Grand Canyon State. Arizona is massive, stretching across 113,990 square miles of diverse terrain. From the soaring peaks of the San Francisco Mountains in Flagstaff to the low deserts of Yuma, the state’s geography includes everything from pine forests to cacti-studded valleys. The Colorado River carved out the Grand Canyon over millions of years, creating one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders right in Arizona’s backyard. The state chose symbols that reflect its unique character. The saguaro cactus blossom serves as the official state flower, blooming white and waxy on those iconic giant cacti that can live over 200 years. The cactus wren, a small brown bird that builds nests in cholla and saguaro cacti, became the state bird. Arizona’s state tree is the palo verde, which bursts into
brilliant yellow blooms each spring and stays green year-round thanks to chlorophyll in its bark. Kids learning about Arizona discover fascinating geography facts. The state contains parts of four major deserts: the Sonoran, Mojave, Chihuahuan, and Great Basin. Despite its desert reputation, Arizona also has the largest ponderosa pine forest in the United States. The state experiences extreme elevation changes, from just 70 feet above sea level along the Colorado River to 12,633 feet at Humphreys Peak. Arizona’s nickname, the Grand Canyon State, honors its most famous landmark, but the state flag tells its own story. The copper star represents Arizona’s mining heritage, while the red and yellow rays symbolize the state’s spectacular sunsets and Spanish colonial history. As Arizona celebrates another birthday this February, families across the state can take pride in calling this geographically diverse, naturally beautiful, and historically rich place home.
Happy Birthday, Arizona!
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E-Bike Safety
E-bikes have spread quickly across Arizona. For many teens, they represent freedom and independence. Parents see them as a practical way for kids to get around. All of that has value. The concern begins when speed, weight, and power meet inexperience and inconsistent helmet use. Over the past several months, our organization has seen an increase in teens cited for riding e-bikes without a license. If they’re under 18, they’re cited for a moving violation and sent to traffic survival school. Traditional bikes move at speeds where mistakes are more forgiving. E-bikes change that equation by adding speed and acceleration to riders who are still learning the rules of the road. Many e-bikes weigh more than 50 pounds. Some accelerate rapidly. Class 3 models assist riders up to 28 miles per hour. At those speeds, stopping distance increases and mistakes carry greater consequences. Physicians across the Valley report serious injuries, including head trauma, internal injuries, and multiple fractures. These injuries often stem from everyday riding scenarios such as uneven pavement, sudden stops, or unexpected obstacles. Helmets are frequently absent. This isn’t to say e-bikes are terrible. They’re not. They’re fun to ride. They reduce barriers like hills and distance. They help people replace car trips with biking. The issue is preparation. Arizona law already distinguishes among three classes of e-bikes, each with different speed limits and expectations for where they belong. Class 1 and 2 e-bikes assist up to 20 miles per hour, with Class 2 allowing a throttle. Class 3 e-bikes assist up to 28 miles per hour and are intended for roadway use. Those distinctions matter, especially for younger riders who may not yet understand how quickly conditions change at higher speeds. Rules alone don’t prepare young riders for speed, traffic, and split-second decisions. Education needs to do more of the work. At a minimum, Arizona should require a basic training course for e-bike riders and for parents purchasing
them. Training should cover traffic rules, e-bike classes, braking distance, visibility, helmet fit, and where each class is permitted to operate. For higher-powered models, licensing deserves consideration. When a device reaches speeds similar to other regulated vehicles and carries substantial weight, additional accountability becomes part of the safety conversation. Helmet use also needs clear reinforcement for minors. Speed increases risk. Head injuries are often permanent. Consistent expectations from parents, retailers, and communities make a difference. E-bikes are here to stay. The goal isn’t restriction for its own sake. The goal is to match education and responsibility to the power of the machines young riders are using. When we do that, we protect independence while keeping families and communities safer. Learn more about injury prevention and safety education at www.acnsc.org.
Submitted by Rick Murray, President and CEO, Arizona Chapter National Safety Council
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ABT Founder & CEO Kiel Klaphake Returns to the Stage in 42nd Street
Arizona Broadway Theatre presents a major production of 42nd Street, the iconic Broadway musical known for its precision, scale, and relentless energy. For the first time in years, ABT Founder, CEO, and Executive Producer Kiel Klaphake steps back onstage in the commanding role of Julian Marsh — the legendary director who demands excellence
and turns potential into performance, mirroring Klaphake’s own 20 years of building and leading a large-scale professional musical theatre. This 42nd Street features a rare alignment of talent and leadership: nationally cast performers, eight standout local actors , and choreography led by ABT’s Artistic Director Kurtis Overby — all coming together in a production built on discipline, momentum, and classic Broadway spectacle. Driven by tap-heavy choreography and timeless songs like “Lullaby of Broadway” and “We’re in the Money,” 42nd Street delivers the joy, glamour, and scale audiences expect from a flagship production — paired with Arizona Broadway Theatre’s signature dinner-and-show experience for a complete night out. 42nd Street runs January 16 – February 27, 2026 at Arizona Broadway Theatre. Tickets available at azbroadway.org or 623-776-8400 .
JANUARY 16 – FEBRUARY 27, 2026
One small-town girl. One huge Broadway break. 42nd Street is the ultimate showbiz fairly tale—where a single step into the spotlight can change everything.
azbroadway.org | 623.776.8400
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Cook With Zona Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper • 3 cloves garlic minced
Sign me up for colorful, delicious sheet pan dinners every weeknight. Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers is filled with protein, vibrant veggies and Italian seasoning. The versatile ways to serve it make it a meal you can come back to every week. If you have a recipe you’d like to share with your community email me at ArizonaCooks71@gmail. com to be featured in the magazine!
Steps 1. Slice all of the sausage and peppers. Place them on a large baking sheet. 2. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl with olive oil until it’s completely combined. 3. Drizzle the seasonings over the sausage and peppers and mix it all together so the season coats everything then spread it out in an even layer. 4. Bake in the oven at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through. The onions and peppers should be soft and the sausage should be browned and crispy. Serve it as is, over rice, a salad or in a bun! 5. Enjoy!
Want to see previous recipes by Zona? Scan the QR code to see all past recipes on our website!
Prep time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 35 mins Total time: 45 mins Ingredients • 12-16 ounces pre-cooked sausage sliced into rounds (I prefer Aidells Brand)
• 2 red bell peppers sliced • 2 green bell peppers sliced • 1 medium yellow onion sliced • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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The Bug Guy
Love Bugs and Other Uninvited Valentines in Phoenix Ah, February in the Valley—when the temperature hits a perfect 70 degrees, the desert blooms with wildflowers, and the scorpions emerge from winter hiding to crash your romantic dinner. Nothing says “I love you” quite like your partner screaming and jumping on the couch because a bark scorpion just photobombed your couples’ selfie. While you’re planning the perfect Valentine’s evening with chocolate-covered strawberries and candlelight, Arizona’s least romantic residents are planning their own festivities. February’s mild weather is like sending out engraved invitations to every pest in the valley. Ants form conga lines to your kitchen counter, roaches think your pantry is the hottest nightclub in town, and those gorgeous desert roses you planted? The rodents think they’re an all-you-can-eat Valentine’s buffet. Let’s talk about the real love triangle nobody wants: you, your significant other, and the family of roof rats living in your attic. They’ve been up there since December, and now that it’s warming up, they’re feeling frisky. Nothing kills the mood faster than
hearing mysterious scratching sounds above your bedroom at midnight. Is it romantic? Only if you’re into horror movies. And don’t even get me started on the pigeons. These flying romantics choose February to scout out prime nesting spots—usually your tile roof or air conditioning unit. They’re basically the reality TV stars of the bird world: loud, messy, and impossible to get rid of once they move in. The good news? A pre-Valentine’s pest control visit is actually more thoughtful than drugstore chocolates. Your partner will appreciate that you value a scorpion- free bedroom more than overpriced roses that’ll die in three days. Plus, pest control professionals work on Valentine’s Day—because love might be patient and kind, but termites definitely aren’t. So this February, show your Valley home some love. Schedule that pest inspection. After all, the only thing that should be bugging you on Valentine’s Day is deciding which restaurant has the shortest wait time. Happy Valentine’s Day from the pest-free zone! Submitted by Larry Cash, of Estrella Mountain Pest Control.
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The Doctor Is In
It’s Time to Rewrite Your Narrative We often live our lives according to a personal narrative—an internal script that dictates how we view our worth, our relationships and our potential. For many, this script is filled with self-doubt, patterns of all-or-nothing thinking or the heavy weight of emotional neglect. We tell ourselves, “This is just who I am,” or “I’ve always been this way.” But there is a profound truth we often overlook: If you didn’t talk yourself into your current mindset, you’re going to need help talking yourself out of it. Most of our deepest core beliefs were written long before we had the cognitive tools to edit them. They were drafted in childhood through DNA contributions from our gene pool, our upbringing and the lens of our environment, the reactions of our caregivers and the “invisible” experiences of what we lacked. You didn’t consciously choose to believe you were “too much” or “not enough”; those chapters were written for you by external circumstances. Because you aren’t the sole author of your origin story, it is incredibly difficult to change the plot alone. As we move into 2026, let this be the year you do something different. Attempting to change a narrative you don’t fully understand is like trying to fix a complex machine without a manual. You can’t edit a script if you don’t know where the dialogue came from. This is where professional help becomes the bridge to a new life.
Getting help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a strategic move to mind the gap between your past perceptions and your future responses. We weren’t put on a planet of nearly 8 billion people to go it alone! A therapist or counselor acts as a co-editor, helping you identify the “red lights” and “green lights” that have been governing your behavior. Change requires more than just willpower; it requires a new set of tools. If you find yourself hitting the same walls in 2026, acknowledge that the script needs a fresh set of eyes. You deserve to understand how your narrative was written so that you can finally take the pen and write the rest of the story yourself. You can find all sorts of resources (referrals, training, books, podcasts and more) at www.doctorbellingrodt. com. Feel free to drop me a message there if I can help you get started on this journey or answer any questions you may have. Submitted by Dr. J. Paweleck-Bellingrodt, Psy.D. Material is for informational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for evaluation or treatment by a licensed professional. Material is copyrighted and may only be reproduced with written permission of Dr. Bellingrodt.
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Superbowl Sunday
Ready, Set, Hike! February has one day that matters. Not Valentine’s Day. Super Bowl Sunday. This is what we’ve been grinding toward since September kickoff. Thirty-two teams started the season. Now it’s down to two, and the rest of us are planted on couches with enough buffalo wings to take down a linebacker. Super Bowl Sunday isn’t just about the game, though the game is everything. It’s about the entire experience. Your buddies crammed into the living room, jerseys on, beer cold, volume cranked. Everyone’s suddenly an expert on defensive schemes and play calling. The refs are blind. The coach is an idiot. Your team would have dominated if they’d just made the playoffs. The prop bets are where it gets good. Forget the spread. We’re betting on the real stuff. Gatorade color dumped on the winning coach? National anthem sung off key over/under? Will someone streak the field? How many times will the announcers mention Tom Brady even though he’s not playing? Loser makes everyone’s plates. Stakes are high.
Food is non-negotiable and requires game-day strategy. Wings are mandatory. Pizza, nachos, sliders, seven- layer dip, mozzarella sticks, anything you can grab with one hand because you’re not missing a play. The debate: order everything and wait three hours because every joint is slammed, or cook it yourself and miss the first quarter? Either way, someone’s taking the loss. Plan accordingly. Commercials have become part of the competition. Some are legendary, some are trash, but we watch every single one and argue about them like they matter. Halftime show? Either epic or a complete train wreck we’ll be roasting for the next decade. The game itself is why we’re here. Fourth quarter, score tied, two-minute warning. This is peak football. One team walks away champions. The other goes home thinking about what could have been. Win or lose, Super Bowl Sunday is what separates football from every other sport. It’s tradition. It’s battle. It’s the biggest stage in sports, and we wouldn’t miss it for anything. Just don’t expect anyone to function at work Monday.
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Puzzle Time Solutions are on our website www.EstrellaPublishing.com, scan the QR code.
Number Cross Cross out the numbers in each grid so that each row and column add up to the specified number written outside the grid. EASY PUZZLE 4
EASY PUZZLE 3
EASY SUDOKU #4
Easy Sudoku
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Estrella Publishing - The Grove magazine
Roses are red , Violets are blue , If your roof is falling apart… It’s not love — it’s due!
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