MARCH 2025 AZ COURIER NEWS PAGE 51 Wright PC (480) 917-9950 Mon-Fri Sat APPLE SPECIALIST All and any apple Repair IPhone Repair, iPad Repair, Macbook laptop Repair, 10:00am-5:00pm 10:00am-4:00pm 2344 East Baseline Road, Mesa, AZ 85204 In the East Valley, numerous city, state, and social service agencies are available to help residents with basic needs and beyond. Navigating these often complex bureaus can be made easier with an appointment. Below is a partial list of providers, their services, and contact information. If you or someone you know is in need, please reach out to these local organizations dedicated to offering support. EAST VALLEY COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE ACCESS ESSENTIAL SERVICES: FOOD, SHELTER, EMPLOYMENT, AND MORE A New Leaf turnanewleaf.org 602-595-8700 Housing & educational assistance Borderlands Produce Rescue borderlandsproducerescue.org 520-287-2627 Food assistance Desert Chapel Methodist Church desertchapelumc.org 480-982-2259 Food assistance, Hair Cuts, Clothing First Baptist Church Apache Junction fbcaj.com 480-982-2155 Food assistance Genesis Project genesisprojectaz.com 480-225-7757 Food & clothing assistance Gold Canyon United Methodist Church goldcanyonumc.org 480-982-3776 Food assistance Hope Women’s Center hopewomenscenter.org 480-983-4673 Food & clothing assistance House of Refuge houseofrefuge.org 480-988-9242 Food, housing, educational, & clothing assistance Market on the Move (The 3000 Club) marketonthemove.org 623-980-7357 Food assistance Mountain View Church Food Bank mvfcaz.com 480-415-9814 Food assistance Other Side Ministries othersideministries.org 480-438-2852 Food assistance Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish (Queen Creek) ologparish.org 480-290-1011 Food assistance Restore Nonprofit restorenonprofit.webs.com 480-229-7356 Food, clothing, & utility assistance QC Food Bank Family Resource Center queencreekaz.gov 480-987-5988 Food assistance Empowerment Systems, Inc. empowermentsystems.org 480-367-6937 Food, employment, kidscare and utility Arizona Dept. of Economic Security des.az.gov 1-855-432-7587 Food assistance (SNAP), health assistance (AHCCCS), employment services, rental assistance, utility assistance Salvation Army apachejunction.salvationarmy.org 480-982-4110 Food assistance, rent/utility assistance
PAGE 52 AZ COURIER NEWS MARCH 2025 HEALTH & WELLNESS SEASONAL ALLERGIES AND HOW TO MANAGE THEM The Environmental Impact of Seasonal Allergies and How to Manage Them As spring rolls into Arizona, so does allergy season. The beautiful bloom of wildflowers and the greening of trees come with an unfortunate side effect—pollen, dust, and other allergens that send many of us into a sneezing, wheezing frenzy. But beyond the discomfort of itchy eyes and congestion, seasonal allergies have a broader impact on the environment, healthcare, and even daily life. Understanding the environmental causes and effects of allergies can help us find better ways to manage them and lessen their impact. The Environmental Causes of Allergies Arizona’s allergy season is primarily driven by plant life waking up after winter. Common culprits include mesquite, olive, and mulberry trees, as well as ragweed, bermudagrass, and other native plants that release fine pollen particles into the air. With climate change leading to warmer temperatures and longer growing seasons, many allergy sufferers have noticed their symptoms starting earlier and lasting longer each year. Additionally, urbanization plays a role in exacerbating allergies. Increased development leads to higher levels of air pollution, which can irritate the respiratory system and make allergic reactions worse. Paved surfaces and buildings also prevent rain from naturally washing away pollen, allowing allergens to linger in the air longer. The Impact on Health and Daily Life While sneezing and congestion may seem like minor inconveniences, seasonal allergies can have more serious health effects. Chronic inflammation caused by allergens can lead to worsened asthma symptoms, sinus infections, and difficulty sleeping. Allergies also contribute to lost productivity, as many people experience fatigue and difficulty concentrating due to their symptoms. For those with severe allergies, outdoor activities can become challenging. Hiking, gardening, or even just walking the dog can lead to discomfort. And while medication can help, overuse of antihistamines can cause drowsiness or other side effects that interfere with daily life. How to Manage Seasonal Allergies The good news is that there are several ways to manage seasonal allergies and minimize their impact: 1. Monitor Pollen Levels: Websites and weather apps often provide daily pollen counts. On high-pollen days, try to stay indoors during peak times (usually mid-morning and early evening). 2. Improve Indoor Air Quality: Use high-quality air filters in your home and change them regularly. Keeping windows closed and using an air purifier can also help reduce indoor allergens. 3. Practice Good Outdoor Habits: Wearing sunglasses, showering after spending time outside, and washing your clothes more frequently can help remove pollen from your body and home. 4. Consider Local Honey: Some allergy sufferers swear by consuming local honey, which may help build a tolerance to local pollen over time. 5. Consult a Specialist: If allergies significantly impact your life, seeing an allergist for testing and treatment options—such as allergy shots—may be beneficial. Looking Forward As environmental factors continue to influence allergy seasons, staying informed and proactive is key to managing symptoms. Small changes in lifestyle and awareness can make a big difference, allowing you to enjoy Arizona’s spring without the constant battle against sneezing and congestion. By taking steps to protect ourselves and our environment, we can work toward a healthier, more breathable future for everyone. Auto • Home • Boat • Motorcycle • RVs • Mobile Homes • Bonds [email protected] Tim Wilson 480-982-4342 Fax: 480-983-0304 212 W. Superstition Blvd #106 Apache Junction, AZ 85120 (Across From AJ Post Office & Social Security Building) LOW RATES! www.eastvalley-insurance.com EAST VALLEY INSURANCE AGENCY thesubslingers.com AUTHENTIC SUBMARINE SANDWICHES TAKE OUT · DINE IN · CATERING 21 S Signal Butte Rd Ste 103 · APACHE JUNCTION AZ 85120 (480) 330 - 1243 Come in and check out our NEW additions to our GREAT menu MON-SAT 11:00AM-7:00PM
MARCH 2025 AZ COURIER NEWS PAGE 53 GO GREEN WITH PLUMBERWOMAN & GOLD CANYON PLUMBING. [email protected] For 24/7 Service Call (480) 217-7174 @PLUMBERWOMAN B&H Auto Repair 455 S. Meridian Rd. Apache Jct, 85120 M-F 7:00am-5:00pm “Bringing Honesty Back to Auto Repair” No Credit Check Financing 480-288-0511 A/C SERVICE 1234YF Service 22495 Must *Includes up to 1 lbs. freon. present coupon. A/C SERVICE R134A Service 8995 Must *Includes up to 2 lbs. freon. present coupon. COMPLETE GLASS SERVICE HOME/AUTO/BUSINESS 480.983.1151 Auto Glass Replacement • Windshield Repair Chip Repair • Single Pane & Dual Pane Windows Mirrors • Tabletops • Heavy Equipment Glass Commercial Store Fronts SAFETY SYSTEM WINDSHIELD CALIBRATION Insurance Claims Welcome 900 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120 www.firstchoiceglassaz.com SERVICE T’s Tree Tree Planting season is in full effect. Choose T’s tree service as your local arborist to plant your trees. Offering a one year free replacement warranty and one free 50-gallon fertilization, a $250 value with every tree we plant! OUR SERVICES: BEST SELCTION OF FIREWOOD! 480-364-2190 Proper Pruning & Crowning Interior Clean Elevation & Canopy Reduction Removals & Stump Grinding Fertilization We have a full-time ISA certified arborist on staff with over 40 years experience. Why do we recommend planting during fall and winter? Planting trees in the fall give the tree roots time to establish over the winter months. The tree can spend energy on expanding the roots to stabilize the tree and gather needed water, oxygen, and nutrients. Licensed & Insured
PAGE 54 AZ COURIER NEWS MARCH 2025 SPRING INTO FITNESS: THE BEST OUTDOOR WORKOUTS FOR A HEALTHY SEASON ACTIVE LIVING SV PIECEMAKER QUILTERS QUILTS, WOODCARVERS & CRAFTS SHOW RAFFLE BASKETS! SUNDAY, MARCH 2nd, 2025 1-4 p.m. Sun Valley MHP - 11101 E University, A.J. Tickets $1 ea. or 6 for $5 72" x 86" *Drawings for quilt and raffle baskets at 3:30 p.m. - Need to be present to win Proceeds used to create AZ*blankets*4*kids Best Outdoor Workouts for Spring Weather As the weather in Arizona begins to cool down and spring blooms into full swing, it’s the perfect time to take your workouts outdoors. Whether you're enjoying the early morning sunshine or taking in the fresh air during a late afternoon stroll, the spring months offer an ideal setting for both physical and mental health benefits. Why Getting Outside Matters Spending time outdoors is more than just a chance to get some fresh air. For seniors and families, outdoor activity has numerous health benefits, especially as the weather turns milder. Research shows that outdoor workouts can help improve mood, boost vitamin D levels, and reduce stress. Exposure to sunlight helps the body produce vitamin D, which plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Being outdoors also provides a natural mood boost, which is particularly important for mental health. Studies indicate that spending time in nature can help reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress, while improving cognitive function and memory. Whether it’s walking through a park, hiking, or engaging in a light workout, the added exposure to fresh air can have a positive impact on your emotional and mental state. Walking and Hiking One of the easiest and most accessible ways to enjoy outdoor exercise is walking. For seniors, walking offers a low-impact exercise that strengthens bones, improves cardiovascular health, and keeps muscles toned. It also helps enhance balance and coordination, reducing the risk of falls. Hiking is another great option, especially for those who want to explore local trails and enjoy nature. Arizona is home to many scenic trails, including areas like Usery Mountain Park and the Desert Hills Trail, which offer both challenging hikes and more moderate paths suitable for beginners. A good hike provides not only a workout for the legs and heart but also a mental escape, surrounded by the beauty of the desert landscape. Yoga in the Park Yoga is an excellent outdoor workout that is gentle on the body while still providing significant physical benefits. Practicing yoga in the park offers a calming environment to help reduce stress and increase flexibility. The natural surroundings, combined with the calming movements of yoga, can create a perfect harmony for mind and body. Outdoor yoga classes are often available in local parks and community centers. Many senior-friendly classes cater to older adults by offering modifications to suit different levels of mobility. Yoga’s emphasis on breathwork and mindfulness also supports mental health, helping to clear the mind while strengthening the body. Cycling For those who enjoy a more active workout, cycling is a fun and effective way to explore the outdoors while getting a full-body workout. It improves cardiovascular health, builds leg strength, and is easy on the joints—making it a great choice for seniors. Cycling around local neighborhoods, or on designated biking paths, can help you cover more ground while enjoying the sights and sounds of the outdoors. If you’re new to cycling, start slow and opt for flatter routes before venturing out on more challenging terrain. Many parks also offer bike rentals, so you don’t need to own your own bike to get started. Tai Chi Tai Chi is a gentle form of martial arts that involves slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing. It has been shown to improve balance, reduce stress, and increase flexibility, making it an excellent choice for seniors. Practicing Tai Chi outdoors allows you to connect with nature while strengthening your mind and body. Many community centers and senior programs offer Tai Chi classes, often held in parks or other outdoor spaces. This is a fantastic opportunity for families or groups to join in together, promoting both physical health and bonding time. Gardening While not often thought of as a workout, gardening provides an excellent way to stay active outdoors. Digging, planting, and pulling weeds engage several muscle groups, providing a full-body workout that can improve flexibility and strength. Gardening also offers the added benefit of being therapeutic, reducing stress and fostering a sense of accomplishment as you see your plants grow. For seniors, raised garden beds or container gardening can make the task easier and more accessible, ensuring that the workout remains gentle on the body. Conclusion As the days get longer and the temperatures become more bearable, spring presents an opportunity to reconnect with nature and improve your health. Whether it’s walking, hiking, cycling, or participating in yoga or Tai Chi, there are countless outdoor activities that can be tailored to suit every fitness level. For seniors and families, outdoor workouts offer the dual benefit of physical exercise and mental well-being, making them a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. This spring, make the most of the beautiful weather by stepping outside for a workout that nurtures both your body and mind.
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