Casta Courier - January 2023

President’s Message

Marci Smith, President

Happy New Year!

Are you looking for a fresh start to the New Year? Are you planning on new windows, or a remodel for your home or patio? If so, the Homeowners Association requires submission of an application for any work you may be having done on the outside of your home. Applications can be picked up at the Rec Ctr 1 office. The Architectural Committee and the Casta del Sol Maintenance Department work hand in hand with each other. They will review your application for proposed changes and may do an inspection on the exterior of your home.

The good news is the majority of applications are approved.

Continued on page 2

Manager’s Report

Josh Hodosh, General Manager Landscape Contract

The Board of Directors has authorized Monarch Environmental to go out to bid for the landscape contract. Staff believes we will have proposals in February for the BoD to make a decision on who will maintain the beautiful Casta del Sol landscaping.

Age Verification

In order to comply with certain Federal regulations and to continue to qualify as a Senior Housing Development, the Casta del Sol Homeowners Association is required to verify that each lot/unit is occupied by at least one person who is 55 years of age or older, known as a Qualifying Resident

General Manager Bids Farewell to Casta del Sol

By Josh Hodosh, photo by Judy Clendenin

What

does a person write to a community when he is leaving, especially one that has always been so important to him? I think the most fitting statement is THANK YOU! I feel blessed and have so much gratitude to have represented your community as General Manager for more than 11 years. The relationships established with residents, vendors and staff are the ones I will miss the most.

When reflecting on the contributions we have made together, I think about the small part I played in all the great work accomplished with tremendous pride. Casta del Sol’s teamwork culture

separates it from other communities. I am proud to say that under my leadership, your staff remained at Casta long term, treated the residents with dignity and class, responded to people quickly, was efficient, transparent, and always worked as if Casta were their own community. Casta never had a lawsuit, the dues have always been very competitive, and we took care of the maintenance needs year in and year out. The annual accomplishments sent out to the community each December provided a glimpse into the scale of what was done yearly, but there was so much more behind the scenes, and

Casta Lawn Bowlers Compete at National Championships

By Liz Rickett, photo by Fred Lake

Mary

Thompson and Joanne Hedgespeth played sports all their lives. When they moved to Casta del Sol in 2010, they quickly became active in pickle ball, paddle tennis, and golf. That summer, Lawn Bowling hosted an Open House event. They were familiar with the game but had never participated, viewing it as “an older person’s game.” However, once they played, they became hooked.

Lawn bowling has been a part of Casta since the 1980s. Many tournaments have been played here. One past Casta

resident, Dick Folkins, was an internationally known lawn bowler.

Seeking more competitive play, Mary and Joanne looked at other venues. In 2017, they selected Laguna Beach as their home club. They play 4-5 times per week with a focus on training and drills.

Mary became a Bowls USA Certified Umpire in 2017 and a Bowls USA Certified Coach in 2018. That same year, Joanne was selected to join Team USA to compete against Team Canada in

Continued on page 2

Sharing our Roots: A Love Story

By Liz Rickett, photo by Jeff McCoy

Fred Lake’s parents showed him what real love is. Both parents were Czech; his dad grew up in a small town, his mom in a city. When Czechoslovakia was taken over by Hungary, his father, a carpenter, was sent to a forced labor battalion in support of the Nazis. He did have some free time during which he went to the city. There he met Fred’s mom who was a seamstress. They got to know each other and spent time together.

When Jews were rounded up for deportation, they were originally sent to different concentration camps. Eventually they landed in Muhldorf, a satellite

Last fall, Joanne

New HOA Dues

Reminder that beginning January 1, 2023, the HOA dues have increased to $562 per month. The overall budget for 2023 is $13,066,808 which represents an annual assessment for Casta del Sol homeowners of $562 per month for each home, which is an increase of $64 from 2022.

Hedgespeth (left) and Mary Thompson (right) played in the 2022 Lawn Bowling National Championships.

Fred Lake holds a photo of his parents who survived the Holocaust

President’s Message

Continued from page 1

The Committee meets weekly, when possible, enabling a quick turnaround time. Note: the Committee has 30 days to process your application. The goal is simply to ensure compliance with Casta’s standards and rules and regulations. The Architectural Committee can be a huge asset to you. By communicating with them and the Maintenance Department, costly mistakes can be avoided.

Please see your telephone directory and review pages 22-41 for detailed information. Your Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring compliance and may submit a stop-work notice or fine if the procedures are not followed properly. Remember to keep your yellow notice in a visible location while work is being done and be sure to turn in the Notice of Completion when your project is finished. Avoid potential headaches and reach out early to our friendly volunteers and staff who are happy to help guide you through the process.

The Architectural Committee is established by the CC&Rs. This very important committee has been led by Chairperson Vicki Slawson for the past six years. Thank you, Vicki, for your diligent efforts working with our residents. Vicki is stepping down this year and handing the reins over to John Nicsinger. Welcome, John.

A simple improvement to your home can make a huge difference. If your New Year’s resolution is home improvement, I wish you a smooth and successful project.

Manager’s Report

Continued from page 1

Although the BoD understands this information was requested at the time you purchased your residence, Federal regulations require the age verification to be updated every two years.

Copies of the Age Verification and Auto Registration instructions are available at the Rec Ctr 1 office. The Board of Directors sincerely appreciates your cooperation in completing this routine, but necessary, process. Should you need assistance or further information, please contact the HOA office at (949) 837-4073.

Holiday Decorations and Tree PickUp Information

Please let this serve as a reminder that those beautiful decorations you so lovingly placed on the exterior of your homes are required to be removed, boxed, and stored away by January 15.

Waste Management will only pick up Christmas trees on the following dates: January 4 and January 11. Trees longer than six feet must be cut in half. Also, please remove all decorations including tinsel, lights, ornaments, and tree stands prior to placing your tree at the curb for pick up.

Casta del Sol HOA

- Board of Directors -

President: Marci Smith marcitaylorsmith@gmail.com

Vice President: David Shostak davidrshostak@gmail.com

Treasurer: Karen Warren kwarrencds@gmail.com

Secretary: Linda Silverman dirsilverman71@yahoo.com

Directors: Lori Gilbertson lori9CDS@gmail.com Joe Hachadoorian joecdsbod@gmail.com Matt Loftus mloft107@gmail.com

For Courier staffing contact information, please see page 22

The Casta Courier is published monthly by the Casta del Sol Homeowners Association. The mailing address is 27651 Casta del Sol Drive, Mission Viejo, Calif. 92692. Deadline for submitting material for the next month appears at the bottom of this page.

DISCLAIMER

CdS Homeowners Association and Farmer Publications, accept no responsibility for content, accuracy or opinion, expressed or implied, of articles, letters or advertisements. Inclusion of advertisements does not carry with it any endorsement, actual or implied, for the product or services advertised. The CdS Homeowners Association and Farmer Publications have content Rules and Restrictions that must be met, and accept no responsibility for damage occasioned through use of products or services advertised herein.

Landscape Notes

Bill Thornton, Landscape Services Coordinator

The two types of irrigation water used in Casta del Sol are domestic and recycled. Domestic water refers to water imported from the north, or from the Colorado River. Recycled refers to water that has been captured by the Santa Margarita Water District (SMWD) filtered, treated, and stored in one of the reservoirs. The Oso reservoir is where water is stored for Casta irrigation and is above Lake Mission Viejo. The reservoir is located high enough in elevation to allow pressure to build up for irrigation to operate properly below in Casta.

There are requirements for the use of recycled water and this year, Tracy Astorga, with the SMWD, has been

Casta Lawn Bowlers Compete at National Championships

Continued from page 1

the North American Challenge (NAC). Two years ago, they found a coach in Australia who works with them via computer. They send him videos and questions. He sends them drills and suggestions. In 2020, both Joanne and Mary were selected to join Team USA to compete in the NAC. Last summer, each qualified for the 2022 National Championships by winning a Southwest Division (SWD) round robin tournament.

In early November 2022, eight Bowls USA Division Champions traveled to Sun City, Arizona to compete in a round robin tournament to determine

the 2022 National Champions. Mary, representing the SWD, was runner up in the Women’s Singles event, losing by only two points to the current national champion. Joanne, also representing the SWD, tied for second place with her partner in the Women’s Pairs event.

Both say they enjoy the competitive nature of play as well as being outdoors. They have played in tournaments across the country and made many friends. They have also discovered that contrary to their preconception, it is a sport for all ages and they often play against teenagers.

Submissions to the Courier

All submissions must be by email in the form of a document attached to an email. See staff box on page 22 for section editor email addresses. Deadline for submitting is the sixth of the month for the paper to be delivered at the end of that month. Opinion letters must also be submitted by email by the sixth and may not exceed 200 words. The writer’s name must appear at the bottom of the letter.

The Courier Committee meets in the Fiesta Room on the second Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m.

inspecting recycled areas to ensure that no cross connections between domestic water in the homes and recycled water in the irrigation system exist. She has observed private irrigation systems connected to the home spigots and running side-by-side with the recycled irrigation systems. She also noted hoses laying on the ground. Her job is to educate and protect people from cross contamination.

All irrigation recycled water zones are identified by purple stickers and signs. I would ask anyone who lives in these recycled areas to abide by the SMWD rules and keep the domestic water system safe by simply taking time to look around your homes. More information is available at www.smwd. com.

This article is being repeated because the SMWD wants all homes in compliance. If you have a private irrigation system in a recycled water zone, please call Tracy Astorga at (949) 430-9220 for an inspection.

INSIDE

Pres. & Mgr. Reports 1-2

Association News 2- 4, 6-7

Committees of the Board 8-11

Bulletin Board 11

Calendar 12 Feature of the Month 13 Opinions 14 Clubs & Activities 14-17

Sports 17-18

Casta Connections 19 People, Places and Events 20-22

Board Meeting Highlights

December 15, 2022

The Board:

• Approved Treasurer Karen Warren’s financial reports as presented. The Treasurer’s Report was held for further review.

• Approved the insurance renewal package submitted by LaBarre/Oksnee Insurance Agency for the period January 1-December 31, 2023, at a total premium cost of $93,894.19.

• Approved the proposal from Concrete Hazard Solutions to repair concrete V-ditches for crack repairs and/or removal and replacement, for a total not to exceed cost of $50,635.

• Approved the proposal from Concrete Hazard Solutions to repair, remove, and replace concrete throughout the community for a total cost of $29,766.

• Approved GMU Geotechnical, Inc. to perform various tasks including pavement coring, testing, and bid package services at a cost not to exceed $13,500.

• Approved June Anderson as Chair of the Greenbelt Committee for 2023.

• Approved the PWLC1 contract revised addendum for month-to-month services beginning January 1, 2023, for landscape services at $267,545 per month.

• Approved the proposal from Santa Margarita Plumbing for repair of the sewer line at 27921 Calle Valdes for a total cost of $8,904.

• General Manager Josh Hodosh reported there are 29 delinquent properties totaling $48,958.54 and four properties recommended for recording liens. Josh announced that our attorney at Powerstone, Janet Power, will no longer be representing Casta. The firm will recommend a new attorney. Our landscape company, PWLC1, has terminated its contract and is proceeding on a month-to-month basis. The Greenbelt Committee is working on a bid package, but it will likely be March until it is ready. Josh announced that he will be resigning as General Manager for Casta del Sol. He has worked at Casta, first as a recreation supervisor and then as General Manager, for 20 years. He wishes the residents of Casta all the best.

• Maintenance Services Supervisor Ed Pedroncelli reported on ongoing maintenance projects. The work on Building D is complete and the room is open for use.

• Landscape Services Coordinator Bill Thornton reported there were 234 landscape maintenance requests in November, bringing the total to 3,384 for the year. Great Scott Tree Services has trimmed 978 trees this year.

• Recreation Director Valerie Hanich announced the age verification program is coming up. Forms will be included in the Courier

The next regular meeting of the Board of Directors will be held January 19, 2023, at 1 p.m. in the Vista Room. The next workshop meeting will be held January 5, 2023, at 9 a.m. in the Vista Room

Fran Morgan, Courier Chair

General Manager Bids Farewell to Casta del Sol

Continued from page 1

I will miss being a part of it!

As General Manager, I was required to ensure violations were enforced, managed day-to-day operations such as staffing, proper insurance for contractors, payables, and more. These were always handled properly and the financial management was strong. All Board of Directors received the proper Board orientations and trainings to lead the community and all prior Boards treated everyone with fairness, respect and integrity, which was extremely important to me.

Our success was no accident. It came

with hard work by many and being surrounded with the right people. Many people that were involved with the aforementioned accomplishments will remain at Casta, such as your dedicated committee members and chairs and incredible Powerstone staff. If they are treated well, I believe Casta will continue moving in a positive direction. I am proud to say I am leaving Casta in a better place than when I arrived, and wish everyone the best. Be well!

Editor’s note: The new general manager from Powerstone Property Management will be announced in an upcoming issue of the Courier

**For a copy of the November 2022 Treasurer’s Report, refer to castadelsol.com, Recreation Center bulletin boards, and/or eblasts.

November Treasurer’s Report

At the time of printing, the Board had not yet approved the Treasurer’s Report.

Total HOA Assets as of November 30, 2022 are $6,075,327, a decrease of $541,028 from last month. This includes the following:

• Operating Cash is $723,322. This includes $80,769 in cash, $142,553 invested in a money market account and $500,000 invested in four CDs with interest rates between 0.35 and 2.95%. There is one operating CD that matures in December.

• Reserve Cash is $4,383,355. This includes $886,831 invested in a money market account, $4,200,000 invested in twenty-one CDs with interest rates between .35 and 4.30%, plus prepaid taxes, interest, and expenses due to operating costs. There is one Reserve CD that matures in December.

• Capital Improvement Cash is $176,177. This account is funded by budgeting $6 per month per homeowner that results in monthly capital contributions of $11,562 plus interest.

• Total Outstanding Accounts Receivable is $71,848. The allowance for Bad Debts is $44,589 and is adjusted monthly. It is equal to outstanding receivable balances over 30 days.

The following is a selection of our operating category expenses for the 11 months of 2022.

General & Administration is: $1,081,445 which is $46,350 under budget.

Land Maintenance is: $2,924,699 which is $89,094 under budget.

Recreation/Lifestyle is: $387,881 which is $40,786 under budget.

Repairs and Maintenance is: $244,172 which is $32,704 under budget.

Traffic Control is: $764,534 which is $7,051 under budget.

Utilities are: $1,624,651 which is $148,262 under budget.

TOTAL Operating Expenses

Before Reserves: $7,027,383 which is $364,246 under budget.

TOTAL Operating Expense

Including Reserves and Interest: $10,300,313 which is $322,379 under budget. The following is a sampling of operating category expense for the month of November 2022.

General and Administration

• Bad Debt is $3,092 which is $1,842 over budget due to monthly adjustment of bad debt.

Land Maintenance

• Land Maintenance Contract is $257,087 which is $48,964 over budget due to an increase in bi-monthly contractual expenses.

Maintenance

• Pool Repair and Maintenance is $3,137 which is $2,312 over budget due to the installation of a spa pump.

Utilities

• Electricity is $24,545 which is $8,711 over budget due to an increase in the expense of electrical.

Treasurer’s Comments:

This is the last Treasurer’s Report of the year. The renovation of Building D and our new multipurpose room is complete. The Board is being diligent in the hope that we can get the Jeronimo slope renovation complete by year’s end or shortly thereafter. We have one reserve and one operating CD coming up for roll over in December 2022 and it is expected that we can get as much as 5.0% for a one-year renewal.

Financial Statement:

Upon motion duly made and seconded on December 15, 2022, the Board approved the November 30, 2022 financial statement, this Treasurer’s Report, and ratifies the review by the individual Board members, as well as all transfers of funds and purchase of any new CDs made in this period and reflected in the financial statement.

Respectfully submitted, Karen Warren, Treasurer

Sharing our Roots: A Love Story

Continued from page 1

of the Dachau camp. Fred’s mom spotted his dad returning from working outside the camp and shouted his name. During the months they spent in the camp, in barracks separated by gender, they arranged to see each other whenever possible.

Camp conditions were unsanitary. Fred’s dad caught typhus. He was put in a barracks for the sick. Every Friday, the Nazis came to collect those too ill to work and sent them to the gas chamber.

Fred’s mom asked a friend’s boyfriend to help. He covered the sick man with straw, topped with a blanket. Fred’s dad was told not to move or make a sound. Soon, he heard the sound of Nazi boots. He felt a stick poke the blanket. Miraculously, the Nazi moved on, not realizing someone was underneath. Fred’s mom found a way to smuggle food and medicine to him. When the next Friday came, he was well enough to return to work.

At the end of the war, they were together on a train operated by the Nazis. They were sure they were being transported to their death. Instead, the United States and Soviet Union forces captured the train and freed them.

They went to a displaced persons camp and from there, they traveled to their home towns to see about their families. They were married shortly after. Both had eight siblings. In his dad’s family, only one other sibling survived. In his mom’s family, only four survived. Both their parents and all their nieces and nephews were gone.

Even though they were able to find work, they found anti-Semitism still rampant in the community. Fred’s dad had half-brothers in America. They applied to immigrate, ending up in Brooklyn.

Fred honors his parents by volunteering as a docent. When he lived in New York, he volunteered at the Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance Center in Glen Cove. Here, he provides virtual and in-person tours at the Holocaust Museum in Los Angeles.

Maintenance Report

Ed Pedroncelli, Maintenance Services Supervisor

Knowing the causes of sewer backups can help you troubleshoot your home’s drain system and determine whether you can make a quick fix yourself or if you need the assistance of a professional plumber.

The most common type of sewer backup is from clogged pipes. The combination of toilet paper, hair, soap scum, cleaning wipes, diapers, napkins, and many other hygiene products flushed down the toilet will clog pipes. Additionally, kitchen grease should not be poured down your sink, and garbage disposals should not be loaded with large quantities of kitchen waste. Important: items such as these should be disposed of properly in the trash.

If you have a backup that’s affecting more than one toilet or sink, you could have a problem that requires a plumber. Please note this could be a sign of an issue with your main sewer line and cannot be solved with a plunger or

bottle of drain cleaner. Common sewer backups can be prevented with regular maintenance and by using your drains properly.

Many older homes across California were originally installed with sewer pipe materials often comprised of clay, Orangeburg, and cast iron. As they age, these pipes are prone to crack or collapse from the roots of plants that can penetrate the sewer lines and clog them. If you have such a problem with your pipes, please call a plumber. A plumber can look directly into your pipes with a camera system and find your problem.

Ed Pedroncelli, epedroncelli@powerstonepm.com, (949) 215-9155

Donna Duhn, Maintenance Coordinator, dduhn@powerstonepm.com, (949) 455-4671 (office)

Join Us In Welcoming Our New Residents

January 2023

Dishon, Charles & Judy 28131 Alava (949) 528-0048 Torrance, CA

Dong, Yi ...................................... 28242 Zurburan ............... (360) 921-1827 Vancouver, WA

Funkhouser, Jeff & Lori .............. 28286 Zurburan ........................... Unlisted Rancho Santa Margarita, CA

Guan, Xingguo 28242 Zurburan (360) 831-1932 Vancouver, WA

Kurji, Wendy & Sam 23721 Villena Unlisted Lake Forest, CA

Maghzi, Mojtaba 28001 Via Castro (714) 488-6136 Irvine, CA

Oates, Tracy 28532 Pacheco (714) 325-4879 Huntington Beach, CA

Peterson, Rose & Eric 23972 Calle Alonso (951) 756-4703 Bella Vista, AR

Architectural

Happy New Year! This is the time of year when we make our New Year’s resolutions such as to lose weight, or get in shape, or clean out closets, etc. It would also be a good time to think about all the things we have been collecting this year on our patios and in our garages. Many residents need to park their valuable vehicles outside in order to store all of their stuff in the garage, stuff they haven’t used all year. Let’s make a resolution this year to park our cars inside and clear out what we no longer need or haven’t used in 2022. Get rid of empty flowerpots, donate garden tools we no longer use to the Heritage or Vegetable Garden, give unused sports equipment to charities, and recycle magazines and books you have read. You will be surprised how nice your garage will look and how easily that car will fit in. If you need help, there are organizations that will gladly help find new uses for your stuff.

PLEASE NOTE: Christmas tree pick up at the curb by Waste Management will be on our regular Wednesday trash days: January 4 and January 11. Trees over six feet tall must be cut in half.

John Nicsinger, Chair, (818) 261-5316 Linda Silverman, Liaison

Budget and Finance

The Budget and Finance (B&F) Committee reviewed the November financials at our December meeting. We are also working on the Casta del Sol policies and procedures for invoice processing, which should be finalized in early 2023.

In January, we will begin our yearend financial statement review since our fiscal year end is December 31. This process takes a few months and will be ready for Board review and approval in April.

All residents are welcome to attend the B&F meetings. The Budget and Finance Committee meets regularly on the third Monday of each month at 1 p.m. Our next meeting is scheduled for January 16, but due to the holiday, the date will likely be changed. Please look for Eblasts with additional details about our next meeting. Happy New Year!

Lisa Shoemaker, Chair, (949) 305-6336 Karen Warren, Liaison

Courier

Happy New Year to all Casta del Sol residents! The Committee welcomed

Continued from page 8

new Editor-in-Chief Charlotte Lassos at our November meeting. She worked with former Editor-in-Chief Judy Clendenin for two months before taking over the job on January 1.

I will not be continuing as Courier Committee chair and gave the Board notice at its November meeting. I recommended they appoint Debra Friedman as chair. This was approved at the December Board meeting. I have appreciated serving as chair of the Courier for several years, and thank all the committee members who worked with me to prepare our wonderful newspaper.

Our December meeting had a short agenda followed by a celebration for our outgoing Editor-in-Chief Judy Clendenin. Judy was our first professional editor-in-chief and has served for more than 12 years. We all wish her well as she retires to do more traveling. Please consider attending one of our meetings and becoming more familiar with all that the Courier Committee does for the residents of Casta. The Committee meets every second Wednesday of the month at 9:30 a.m. in the Fiesta Room to discuss previous

issues and review the assignments for the next month’s issue.

Fran Morgan, Chair, (949) 305-5547

Linda Silverman, Liaison

Facilities

Election

On December 7, the Election Committee, presided by newly-appointed Chair Jeff McCoy, held its first planning session for the 2023 election of three Casta del Sol Board of Directors members. In attendance were Board liaison David Shostak, committee members Barbara Harris, who has been appointed Inspector of Elections; Jayne Freed, Secretary; Myrna Smith, Editor; and Scott Shiroma, Powerstone. Executive Office Manager Susan Wadsley was also present. The committee discussed the 2023 election calendar, which will be sent to the Board for approval in January. Election Operating Rules, which were revised March 17, 2022, were also discussed, and the Candidate Application was updated and ready for Board approval. Applications for the Board of Directors election will be available March 1. The Election Committee’s next meeting will be Wednesday, January 4 at 3 p.m. in the Fiesta Room.

Jeff McCoy, Chair, jmactr1@gmail.com David Shostak, Liaison

Happy New Year to all! Let’s start off the new year by working together to preserve our newly paved streets and cul-de-sacs. Trash trucks are now picking up receptacles three times each Wednesday. Residents living on cul-de-sacs are asked to place trash receptacles on the right side of the cul-de-sac. The trash trucks have two-prongs on the right side and to pick up on both sides of the cul-de-sacs requires the truck to enter first on the right side, then back out and turn the truck around to back into the cul-de-sac and pick up the trash receptacles on the left side. That means that instead of trucks entering a cul-de-sac three times, they will enter six times. Your assistance is requested.

The committee has begun work on the following projects: 2023 paving bids from GMU and paving contractors; painting for 2023 (make sure to get trim and stucco repaired due to termite, wood dry rot, or stucco issues); gate locking system at Rec Ctr 1 and Rec Ctr 2 Pool; preparing bids for consultants for Rec Ctr 2 Pool remodel; new awning, umbrella covers and picnic tables at Paddle Tennis; remodel of Ceramics; con-

crete grinding of sidewalks; repair/replace gutters, sidewalks and v-ditches; resurface Bocce Ball court; and new chairs in Vista Room and other rooms.

The Facilities Committee meets on the fourth Thursday of the month at 9 a.m. in the Vista Room and online via Zoom. Casta del Sol needs you and your talents.

Nancy Cunningham, Chair, (949) 350-3562

Matt Loftus, Liaison

Library

New Additions to the Library

Regular Print:

A World of Curiosities, Louise Penny

And There Was Light, Jon Meacham Dawnlands, Philippa Gregory

Desert Star, Michael Connelly

Flight, Lynn Steger Strong

Gilded Mountain, Kate Manning Now is Not the Time to Panic, Kevin Wilson

The Cloisters, Katy Hays

The Lindberg Nanny, Mariah Fredericks

The Twist of a Knife, Anthony Horowitz

Library

Continued from page 9

Wait for Me, Sara Shepard We All Want Impossible Things, Catherine Newman

We Are the Light, Matthew Quick

Large Print: A Christmas Deliverance, Anne Perry Going Rogue, Janet Evanovich Next in Line, Jeffrey Archer Racing the Light, Robert Crais

The Last Chairlift, John Irving The Most Likely Club, Elyssa Friedland

The Rewind, Allison Scotch

Audio: Poster Girl, Veronica Roth Someday Maybe, Onyi Nwabineli

Pat Vitti, Chair, (949) 457-9194 Matt Loftus, Liaison

New Year’s Eve extravaganza. Neighbors, dressed in their finest, danced the night away to the music of Roy Southerland. Prime rib and salmon were on the menu catered by Martinez. The photo booth was a great way to record the event for posterity. I would like to thank the entire Social Committee for their assistance in planning and setting up the party; our liaison, Karen Warren, for her guidance and assistance; and a special shout out to Recreation Director Valerie Hanich for her endless participation, creativity, and energy in helping make this event so wonderful.

We have many exciting new things in store for Casta del Sol this year. We are working out details for a Super Bowl party to be held in the Vista Room on Sunday, February 12. What a great chance to watch the game with a crowd; it’s the next best thing to being in the stands.

Social

What a wonderful holiday season it was! I hope you enjoyed spending time with family and friends; such memorable ways to say goodbye to the old year and welcome in the new.

The Social Committee was pleased to host the sold-out Cheers to 50 Years,

Check the Courier for details on all our upcoming events, as well as the sandwich board by the Rec Ctr 1 office and Eblasts. An official calendar of activities will be available in a month or so.

Amy Lake, Chair, (516) 263-7941, Arlake225@gmail.com Karen Warren, Liaison

Traffic

We have been asked if mobility scooters should be driven on the roadways, in the bicycle lane, or on the sidewalk. Inside Casta del Sol, we do not have any designated bicycle lanes, so mobility scooters should be driven on the sidewalk where safety allows. Uneven pavement or steep driveway transitions may cause the driver to go onto the street for a short section of roadway, but scooters are considered a pedestrian assist vehicle, so they should primarily be on the sidewalks. The same rules that apply to pedestrians will apply to scooters. Remember to exercise caution and consideration of walkers who are going more slowly

than the scooter. Exercise the same caution as you would if you were walking by being aware of crosswalks, traffic lights, pedestrian signals, and passing vehicles. The specific description in Casta’s rules and regulations reads, “Disability scooters are required to use sidewalks within Casta del Sol, wherever available for safe passage, and to display a red or orange triangular flag fastened on a six-foot rod affixed to the mobile device.”

Lynn Yeazel, Co-Chair, (949) 582-0212, lyhdtv@gmail.com John Nethercutt, Co-Chair, (858) 688-3136, ravens987@hotmail.com Joe Hachadoorian, Liaison

Welcome

Welcome, as always, to newcomers in the community. Members of the Welcome Committee contact new residents to arrange a meeting and provide a packet of information about the many programs and clubs in Casta del Sol, and to answer your questions. If you have not yet been contacted by one of our members and wish to meet, you may email me to arrange a time and place to get together with one or two of us.

Welcome to Casta once again, and we hope you enjoy exploring and finding your way around the community. We

look forward to meeting each one of you. And lastly, best wishes as you start your first full year in the community.

Priscilla Tripp, Chair, ptripp1@gmail.com Joe Hachadoorian, Liaison

9 a.m. Traffic, F 1 p.m. Architectural, F

10 9 a.m. Greenbelt, F

10 a.m. Library, F 3 p.m. Election Committee, F

9:30 a.m. Courier, F 11:15 a.m. Las Damas Luncheon, V

10:00 AM Social, F 10 a.m. Architectural App Review, G 9 a.m. CdS BoD Workshop, V, Z

6 p.m. Italian American Event, V

10 a.m. Architectural App Review, G 10 a.m. Budget & Finance, V

4 p.m. Democrats Event, V

10 a.m. Welcome, F

5:30 a.m. Men’s Golf Dinner, V

1 p.m. CdS BoD Meeting, V, Z

31

10:30 a.m. Courier Stuffing, V

Association, Board & Committee Meetings

9 a.m. Facilities, V, Z

January 2023

10 a.m. Architectural App Review, G

10 a.m. Architectural App Review, G 10:30 a.m. ARMDI Event, V

Recreation Center 1:

Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Recreation Center 2: Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

• Association Sponsored Activities

•

Calendar Coordinator, Valerie Hanich Recreation Director, vhanich@powerstonepm.com (949) 455-4681

Club & Activity Events

Daily/Weekly Activities Schedule - January 2023 ( All activities are subject to change. )

Bible Study T, 10:30 a.m., H

Bocce Ball M,W,F, 2-3 p.m., BC

Bunco 1st T, 6 p.m.,H

Bunco 2nd T, 6 p.m., H

Bunco 2nd T, 6 p.m., G

Bunco Babes 3rd T, 6 p.m., G

Ceramics Club M,T,TH,F,S, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.; W, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., AC & CW

Crafts for Charity 1st, 3rd W, 10 a.m., H

Cribbage TH, 6:30 p.m., H

Duplicate Bridge T, 12 p.m., G Hand & Foot M, 6 p.m., G; W, 12 p.m., H;

S, 5:45 p.m., H

Jewelry Class F, 1 p.m., AC

Lawn Bowling M,W,F, 9:30 a.m.; LBG

Mah Jongg Mavens S, 10 a.m., H;

Mexican Train T, 1 p.m., V or AC

Paddle Tennis M,T,W,TH,F, 9 a.m., PTC

Pickleball F,S, 9 a.m., TC M,W. 4 p.m., TC

Pinochle F, 6:30 p.m., H

Poker Ladies 1st W, 6 p.m., G

Quilting 2nd & 4th TH, 1 p.m., G

Rubber Bridge M, 11 a.m., G

Scrabble T, 6 p.m., L

Shuffle League Play TH, 9 a.m., SBP

Shuffle (Pot of Gold) W, 6:30 p.m., SBP Shuffle Super 2nd Su, 1 p.m., SBP Shuffle Training F, 10 a.m., SBP

Shuffle Travel Teams T, 9 a.m., SBP

Strummers W, 2 p.m., V Support Group 1st & 3rd TH, 10:30 a.m., G

Tennis .............................. T,TH, 6:30 p.m.; M,W,S, 8 a.m., TC

Texas Hold’em W, 12:45 p.m., G Water Exercise M,T,W,TH,F, 9 a.m., P1 Wood Workers M,TH, 12 p.m., AR

Recreation Center 1 AC = Arts & Crafts B = Billiards Room BC = Bocce Ball Courts CW = Ceramics Workshop F = Whole Fiesta Room F1 = Fiesta Room Fireplace Side F2 = Fiesta Room Back Side G = Garden Room L = Library LP = Lapidary Room P1 = Pool 1 SBP = Shuffleboard Pavilion V = Vista

Recreation Center 2

CG = Chipping Green H = Heritage Room

LBG = Lawn Bowling Green

LBP = Lawn Bowling Patio/Pavilion P2 = Pool 2

PTC = Paddle Tennis Court TC = Tennis Court

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Note: All meetings are subject to a change of location or being on Zoom.

Variety Club Poligrip Radio Hour Transports Us to the 1940s

Casta

del Sol was treated to another excellent Variety Club production directed and written by Bear Sanchez and Barb Turino. The Poligrip Radio Hour promised to “transport viewers back to the golden age of radio in the 1940s.” Performed on the evening of November 18 and the afternoon of November 19, to a full house of residents and guests, the promise was fulfilled. The premise of the show was that the KSML Radio Show producer (Barb Turino), announcer (Mark Schwartz), and stage manager (Debra Friedman) were in constant panic trying to handle the fact that many of their star players were sidelined by traffic, illness, booking other gigs, etc. Therefore, janitors, stagehands, security guards, and even some “audience” members were called on to fill in. The chaos behind the scenes lent a sense of hilarity to the proceedings.

Viewers were treated to 1940s songs, including Apple Tree , In the Mood , Chattanooga Choo Choo , Sixteen Tons, Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah, and Jambalaya. There was an original melodrama replete with zany sound effects, a dramatic reading by Liz Rickett, and

a script from the conclusion of the Maltese Falcon. Interspersed with the readings and songs were commercials from that era such as Yuban Coffee, Poligrip Dental Adhesive, Old Gold Cigarettes, Ipana Toothpaste, and Oxydol Detergent. One of the highlights of the show was Seth Sethna filling in for the Irish Dr. O’Malley as the “Love Guru” answering audience questions. Although the 1940s predates many of us, we could all relate to the costuming, setting, and mood of that era.

Others in the cast included singers: Joe Hart, Phil Naideth, Larry Kromling, Sara Henninger, Linda Donohoe, and actors: Richard Scott, Patti Castro, Sherry Hargrove, Carol Altemus, and Sandy Norian. With Parizad Sethna on Foley, Janine Shannon and Scott Walker on sound, and Carol Burke playing the piano, the Variety Club secured a fantastic group who worked hard to pull off this ambitious endeavor.

After a well-deserved rest, the Variety Club will start preparing for future shows. The audience members are anxious to see the next venture for this very energetic and talented club.

Entire Cast and Stage Crew. (Photo by Kip Isbell)

Announcer Mark Schwartz and Producer Barb Turino. (Photo by Kip Isbell)

Stagehands, Janitors, and Security Guards. (Photo by Kip Isbell)

Debra Friedman tap dancing to Old Gold Cigarette Commercial. (Photo by Fred Lake)

Joe Hart as Janitor singing 16 Tons. (Photo by Fred Lake)

Singing Trio: Sara Henninger, Carol Altemus, and Linda Donohoe. (Photo by Kip Isbell)

Cast Finale: Chattanooga Choo Choo. (Photo by Fred Lake) Parizad and Seth Sethna on Foley. (Photo by Fred Lake)

By Debra Friedman, photos by Kip Isbell and Fred Lake

Thank You Heritage Club HOA Dues

The Classical Music Concert on violin and cello, performed by my friends at our Casta del Sol Heritage Garden on October 2, 2022 was a great success. I want to extend my gratitude to those who helped me with this event.

My sincere thanks to Beth McVey, President of our Heritage Garden Club and her team of volunteers who organized the seating arrangements and the

EZ UP for the musicians and audience. A big shout-out goes to Valerie Hanich of Powerstone who sent the event flyer to our residents via eblast. My gratitude to Fred Lake, photographer for the Courier, for beautifully capturing the memorable moments.

My thanks to all the residents who attended the event.

Elizabeth Kramer

At the Board workshop on December 1, 2022, it was stated that $45 of the $64 increase in HOA dues for next year was a result of Pac West deciding to withdraw from their current contract to an adjusted month to month contract and charge an additional fee of almost $50,000 per month until the Board is able to either replace them or hire them back again. The projected costs for landscaping next year are expected to

be significantly higher than Pac West’s current contract as well.

Had aspersions not been cast as to Pac West’s billing processes, which after an audit, have been shown to be legal, the company would probably not have raised the rates as they have. So, maybe due to lack of common sense and probable external voices influence we have a hefty HOA increase to pay.

Jim Slawson

Bible Study

Any resident of Casta del Sol who has an interest in participating in the study of the Bible is welcome to join us. This is an active group of folks from different churches. Our studies are varied, but always Bible-oriented. We examine and/or question the study of the day, but always keep the discussion on topic from the Bible.

The club meets at Rec Ctr 2 every Tuesday morning from 10 to 11:30 a.m. for study and prayer. Come and join us as we sing the old hymns.

We are a no-dues club. All are welcome. For more information, please contact Peter Filakouridis at (949) 305-1935.

Kay Reed, dentist2cali@gmail.com, (949) 354-1460

Canine Companions

Happy New Year to all our canines and their owners. We have so much to be thankful for. Last year was a good one for our club with the addition of many new members. Our monthly meetings at the Rec Ctr 2 Pavilion, featuring Linda’s luncheon, offer sociability for both the members and their dogs. We were disappointed in the cancellation of our Christmas dinner party. It’s getting very difficult to find a location.

Of significant importance is the progress being made regarding our Casta Dog Park. We have obtained a very large number of signatures on the petition, and want to thank all of you wonderful workers who assisted in the process, especially Lucille Naves and Becky Kingston, as well as our lead person, Linda Galloway.

Billiards

Happy New Year! If you haven't done so already, start off the new year by visiting the Billiards Room at Rec Ctr 1. We have installed a new professional dart board with darts and score sheets available. If you are a beginner at billiards, there are plenty of players you will meet there who are happy to help you learn the basics. Everyone is friendly and looking forward to welcoming new players. If you just want to practice, the room opens every morning at 8 a.m. All the equipment you need is available there for you to use or, for you pool sharks, bring your own cues. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you’re interested in learning more about the sport or would like free lessons.

Fred Wilmott, (949) 367-6671, BilliardsCDS@cox.net

Be sure to join us on January 21 at the Pavilion at 1p.m. for our annual Chili Luncheon. All dog owners are welcome. Please RSVP.

Tom Brockmiller, lindabrock@cox.net, (949) 412-1083

Ceramics

We had a great time at our annual Potato Party. With Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and others to celebrate, why call a holiday party a Potato Party? Years ago, Diane Harris attended a get together where the humble potato was the main dish. She imagined a version of this idea as the club’s December meeting and Christmas party in her home. She would bake potatoes for everyone, and each person would bring a spud topping, as well as a Christmas ornament to trade. This seemed like genius to the group. As attendance grew however, Diane ran out of seating and

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the members exhausted ideas for toppings. The party/meeting is now held in one of Casta del Sol’s event rooms. Multitudinous toppings still arrive, but anything a member brings is welcome. A “white elephant” gift exchange has replaced trading ornaments, but the Potato Party remains and no one ever leaves hungry.

Jo Steciuk, beejul@cox.net, (949) 394-5181

Crafts For Charity

We will start the new year with a few fun projects for Valentine’s Day. We’ll be making items for a gift bag of goodies to give to the women at Laura’s House, a shelter for domestic violence victims. Included will be cards and a mini journal, along with other gifts. We will also be working on tray favors for the recipients of Meals on Wheels deliveries in Mission Viejo.

If you would like to share in the fun and meet some of your neighbors in the process, please join us. We meet on the first and third Wednesday each month from 10 a.m. until about noon at Rec Ctr 2. Club meetings will be on January 4 and January 18. There is no membership fee, but we do accept voluntary donations to help defray the cost of materials. We are always looking for new ideas for craft projects and recipients. For details, call Marlene Kazan at (949) 916-5044.

Jessica Hollowell, (310) 480-9093

Democrats

Hope you had a happy holiday and New Year. Due to busy schedules, we did not have our December meeting. Instead, we will have a New Year’s pizza party on January 15 at 3 p.m. Some of our members requested an earlier start time so they don’t drive in the dark. Remember to mark your calendar for the third Sunday at 3 p.m. each month until June. The camaraderie during our meetings is important, so we generally ask attendees to bring food or beverages to share and to stay and mingle.

The new officers of our official Democrats Club have expressed goals for 2023. We would like to grow our Club membership, look at themes to address, connect more with nearby Dems clubs, and always keep members informed. In order to expand, we are asking everyone to bring a friend to the next meeting.

If you have not received emails and would like to add your name to the list, please let me know.

Debra Friedman, debrafriedman0@gmail.com, (949) 230-7195

Health and Fitness

enjoy the winter beauty of the deciduous tree branches silhouetted against the winter skies. Marvel at the elegant shapes of the branches and gorgeous texture of the trunks of these beautiful trees. Look up into the trees and you will see that each tree displays its own personality.

Across from the Grove area, the magnificent California Buckeye will surely catch your eye. Its silver-gray trunk

and graceful branches are a picture to behold. We will feature the California Buckeye in coming issues of the Courier. Until then, put on your sneakers and head to the garden located at Rec Ctr 2 behind the tennis courts. See you in the garden.

Parizad Sethna, (949) 298-0076

Cribbage

We play cribbage each Thursday in the Heritage Room at Rec Ctr 2 from 6:30 p.m. until about 8:45. If you are interested in learning to play this old English card game, any of our members would be willing to teach you on a one-to-one basis, or we can do it on a Thursday evening; it’s really not that complicated. You just need to be able to count to 31. If you have ever played in the past, the rules will quickly come flooding back; just come on down for a few games and a general social evening. There is no sign-up or commitment. If you want more information, contact Susan Herrning.

Susan Herrning, (949) 630-2565, susanherrning@aol.com

As the incoming president of the Casta del Sol Health and Fitness Club, I would like to thank the outgoing officers, Barbara Notery and Tara Adams, who deserve a break after all their hard work getting us moved into our newly updated and comfortable space in what was formerly the Garden Room. Barbara and Tara have left us with very little work to do. But, on that note, I would love to hear from any residents who might be willing to join us as club officers. We are supposed to have four officers, so let’s get those bylaws fulfilled. Four opinions are much better than one. We can have some fun together making the Fitness Club stronger than ever. The time commitment is truly minimal.

If you like to work out, drop by and check out our new 21st century equipment. Strength in fitness, seniors!

Helen Freedman, PelicanPost123@yahoo.com, (646) 662-7325

Heritage Garden

A stroll through the Heritage Garden in the winter is comforting, uplifting, and truly therapeutic. Saunter along the many meandering pathways in the garden and make a stop at each of the theme areas to look around. Pause and

Italian American

Ring in 2023 at the Italian American Club gala on January 17 at 6 p.m. in the Vista Room. Tony Rogers will be entertaining us. Our prime rib or salmon dinner will be served with champagne and wine. Don’t miss this evening of good food and music. Cost is $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Sign up for membership; it’s $10 for individuals and $15 for a couple.

In February, we will have our bingo night on the second Thursday at 6 p.m. Some changes for 2023: The evening will be $5 and will include cookies, water, and coffee. There will not be any pizza, so have dinner before attending. Cards will be $1 each with a $100 payout on the last game. Most months will be bingo, but we will have at least three dinners with entertainment during the year. This change is due to our small committee. If you want to have more activities, please join our committee.

Lucille Naves, neilnaves@cox.net, (949) 600-5887

meeting at 11:15 a.m. on Wednesday, January 14 in the Vista Room. Ticket sales end January 11, so hurry down to Rec Ctr 1 to sign up for a fun afternoon featuring a birthday celebration theme and special entertainment from “The Millennial Crooner” Ryan Christopher.

Annual dues for 2023 are payable at the January luncheon. The amount has been kept to a nominal $15; make checks payable to Las Damas Club. Luncheon tickets remain at $25 for members and $30 for non-members.

Sign-ups for the February 8 luncheon will begin immediately following the January meeting. A Valentine menu will include a chicken marsala entree and jubilee cherry pie for dessert. Randy Taylor, vocalist, will provide fabulous entertainment.

Pat Crowley, (949) 305-0582

Military Veterans

Las Damas

Happy New Year to all. Las Damas Club celebrates its first 2023 luncheon

I am pleased to announce that Roddy Jordan has been elected President of the Casta del Sol Military Veterans Club, and Otis Givenrod will oversee event planning. Rod and Otis will be joining Vice President Mike Schlesinger, Secretary Steve Vallely, Treasurer Bill

Burfeind, and Sargent-at-Arms Randy Smith as the 2023 officers. Congratulations guys!

Meeting dates and event schedules are being determined and will be announced as soon as appropriate via email, Eblast, or Courier Clubs article.

Kip Isbell, kipisbell@live.com

Ping Pong

Happy New Year! Try something new by checking out Ping Pong. We meet on most Saturday mornings at 9 a.m. in the Vista Room. We usually play doubles for about one and a half hours. Depending on the number of players, there may be some rotation. Last month, we were able to fill two tables; let’s try for three.

Come out and give Ping Pong a try. We look forward to seeing new faces. All skill levels are welcome. For more information contact Sherry Hargrove Sherry Hargrove, (858) 336-5369

Pinochle

Attention pinochle players: we play pinochle in the Heritage Room at Rec

Ctr 2 every Friday, with play starting promptly at 6:30 p.m. We played partners once in November with Cathie Joy and Dawn Hibbs having the high score of 5,730. In October, Cathie Joy had the high game with 950 and Alice McNany was second (three hands) with 940. The high series was won by Dawn with a total of 3,930 points and Cathie was second with 3,750. There were two double pinochles reported. Congratulations to our winners.

Anyone interested in the game of pinochle is invited to come and join us. For more information, call Wayne at (949) 916-5387.

Nancy Money, cnmoney@aol.com, (949) 457-9066

Republicans

Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a blessed and happy holiday season. The club is working on new events for the coming year. As yet, we do not have confirmation of event dates, but we will let you know as soon as we do. We are planning something for February, May, and September or October. Be prepared for a lively year. It is the club’s hope to continue provid-

Republicans

Continued from page 16

ing its members with stimulating and informative information about what is happening in the Republican Party.

Pleased stay tuned.

As we have completed another year, it becomes necessary to replenish the treasury in order to continue to provide our events at no charge. There is no increase in the annual dues, which remain at $10 for individuals and $15 for couples. Thank you for your continued support.

Betty Houston, Consultantbetty@gmail.com

Sol Rock ‘n Rollers

A new group of officers takes the helm for 2023. We are thankful for the guidance of the outgoing officers who have worked so hard for the past five years. The new officers are: Deanna McKeon, president; Annie Cabaniss, vice president; Donna Farris, secretary; and Karen Parmer, member-at-large.

We have made a few changes. We changed the name to Sol Rock ‘n Rollers to be more inclusive. Secondly, there are no dues for 2023. We will, however, identify members so that we can email updated information on events. Thirdly, the cost of events will be the same for members and guests. Our goal is to provide quality musical entertainment and food, while keeping the costs reasonable.

The date for our first event is pending. The officers are learning more about local bands and caterers. If you are

interested in being involved with this dynamic group or have a question, please contact me.

Donna Farris, dbfarris117@gmail.com, (949) 378-6158

Support Group

This Support Group is to help each other in our community. We help those who are caregivers, or who are grieving from losing a loved one or from losing independence, as well as other kinds of grief. The Support Group provides an in-person place to share feelings confidentially, to get and give emotional support, to make friends, and to learn from others who have walked a similar path. We meet twice a month. For additional information, please contact Kathy Wu.

Kathy Wu, kathywu.mv@gmail.com, (818) 590-8009

Variety

Happy holidays and happy New Year from the Variety Club. We want to thank all our friends and neighbors who have supported us by attending our shows, helping out, and/or performing. In fact, a few of the audience members from our last show displayed interest in joining us on stage. We had several crew members step onto the stage for subsequent shows and they became great additions. We are not yet sure when our 2023 show will take place, but we will have something very entertaining, and will let everyone know when plans are confirmed.

The Variety Club is a group of performers and assistants who enjoy being together, laughing, and learning a lot about self-confidence and theater skills. If you are interested in joining us for future shows, please contact Barb Turino at (951) 858-7350.

Debra Friedman, debrafriedman0@gmail.com, (949) 230-7195

Vegetable Garden

A new slate of officers has been sworn in for the Vegetable Garden and I have been chosen to lead this club. Prior management has done a fantastic job in running the garden and the new officers look forward to continuing their good work. The garden is currently 100% full and there are over 20 on the waiting list, however, the list does turn over so individuals should not be discouraged from signing up for a garden.

Come and see the garden and all the crops the gardeners are growing, including onions, garlic, beets, radishes, potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. At this writing, oranges and tangerines are in season and it’s a beautiful sight to see.

Michael Schlesinger, mikeschles123@gmail.com, (914) 815-1002

Water Exercise

Happy New Year! Here we go again; let’s start out the year on the right foot by getting or continuing to get some great exercise each day. What better

place than the pool. Doctors recommend water exercising as the perfect way for seniors to maintain their health and mobility. We are at Pool 1 each day, Monday through Friday, at 9 a.m. Please register in the office, sign the waiver, and pay the annual dues of $10. Join us. As a big plus, you will meet some great new friends. See you at the pool.

Nan Rednall, nrednall@gmail.com, (949) 584-4321

Woodworkers

Woodworkers Club members had a break during the month of December. We completed all our orders from residents for holiday mailbox decorations plus some other small wood repair requests. Members worked mostly on personal Christmas gifts and requests from family members. We also made time to take a field trip as guest visitors to the December meeting of the Orange County Woodworkers Association in the City of Tustin. The meeting included displays of wood-turning projects completed by members who specialize in turning wood bowls, wood ballpoint pens for military personnel, and other circular objects of one wood species or of several types glued together.

Woodworkers meet each Monday and Thursday afternoon from 2 to 3:30 p.m.in the Arts and Crafts Room across from the Vista Room. Drop by if you have a request or are interested in our activities.

Steve Vallely, (714) 595-5766

Bocce Ball

Bocce Ball continues to play on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday afternoons from 2 to 3 p.m. The officers for 2023 will be: President, Carol Zinsmeister; Secretary, Mo Caywood; Treasurer, Pat Vitti. I would like to thank Mo and Pat for all their help, as well as for agreeing to serve on the board again.

Dues for 2023 will remain at $10 and will be payable by check on January 1 at Rec Ctr 1. I have been a little disappointed in the attendance at our monthly meetings. If you plan on renewing your membership, please consider attending some of the meetings. Our next regular meeting will be held on Monday, January 9 at 7 p.m. in the

Fiesta Room where we will be playing Bingo. At our February 6 meeting, we will be playing cards following a short business meeting.

Carol Zinsmeister, (949) 305-9890

Bowling

As of the end of November 2022, the Turkey Hunters (Jan Phifer, Lisa Serrano, Dave Descoteaux, and Lou Johnson) had a slight lead on Split Happens (Dee Yamabe, Jim Kazan, Benjamin Yu, and Steve Saltz). There is still time for any of the other teams to pass them in the standings.

The Casta del Sol Bowling League bowls on Thursdays at 1 p.m. at Saddleback Lanes on Marguerite Parkway

in Mission Viejo. We have openings on three of our 16 teams so if you are interested in joining us for some fun and camaraderie, you can contact us at either of the numbers listed here. If you do not want to commit to bowl every week, you could get on our list of subs; just call Donna Miller at (949) 3958958. If you’re interested in checking out how much fun we have, you can always stop by on a Thursday at 1 p.m.

Van Quinn, (949) 842-9151

Fishing

Hello to all. I hope everyone had a joyous and safe holiday season. There is no new news on the Lake Mission Viejo conditions for fishing. Lake

management is working to reduce the lake’s salinity to a level not liked by the golden algae. This is a very slow process that will take many months to complete.

We did have our holiday season

Turkey Trot party last month and a good time was had by all. The only activity currently going on is ocean fishing on the Laguna Woods Rod and Gun Club Charter. There will only be one per month in January and February based on closed rockfish season. Anyone interested, please contact your club officers for information. Until next month, tight lines for all.

Nick Morenc, President, (949) 588-6223

Jim Slawson, Secretary, (925) 813-1848

Golf Chippers

Who wants to learn how to golf? Here is a non-threatening and inexpensive start for you. The entire Casta del Sol community is invited to the next Golf Chippers event on Saturday, February 4 at the Rec Ctr 2 golf practice area from 9 to 11 a.m. for just $5 per player. Bring a club or let us provide one. We can match you up with an experienced player. Enhance our prize table with a golf-related or non-golf-related “white elephant” item. You are welcome to bring a spouse or another adult.

All Casta residents are welcome to play at the golf practice area at any time. Golf balls are available. Just use one of the zippered containers outside the shed. You may also hit balls in the practice cage. Any questions? Call Bob Hrad.

Bob Hrad, (949) 290-0366

Lawn Bowling

As the new year begins, we will again announce how easily you can join our Lawn Bowling Club. Mr. Shuman Chan, one of our finest bowlers, has volunteered to provide free lessons, with the club furnishing the equipment. Just notify Mr. Chan at (626) 428-0250, to arrange a time convenient to you and him. Lessons will be given at the Lawn Bowling green located at Rec Ctr 2. We do not have formal leagues or teams. New members and regulars bowl together in balanced talent teams for fun 12 end games, which last about one and a half hours. Winter starting time is afternoon on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. With the onset of the rainy season, we may miss a day or two. Call

one of our contacts to confirm any bowling date and time. Give Mr. Chan a call; you’ll enjoy it.

Roman Swystun, President, (818) 669-9970

Butch Nelson, Vice President, (949) 351-0941

Men’s Golf

Happy New Year! Mark your calendar. The January games are: 4th - Blind Nine Holes; 11th - Twosome Best Ball; 18th - Winter Tournament; 25th - Individual Low Net.

Our first quarterly Winter Tournament will be January 18. It will be followed by an awards dinner in the Vista Room catered by Martinez Catering. A Mexican bill of fare will be served including drinks and famous tres leche cake. Cost is $26. Look for club emails and dinner flyers for further information.

If you are interested in joining our club, please contact our membership chairman, Al Arnott, at (714) 4254320.

Merl Barrett, (949) 770-5024

this year. With all the racket sports and other sports and activities available at Casta del Sol, we are happy to have such a strong group supporting paddle tennis. We always welcome new members, so come try it out and practice during our open court time at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday.

We are collecting 2023 dues of $10 per person. This entitles members to participate in our social events and tournaments.

Debra Friedman, debrafriedman0@gmail.com, (949) 230-7195

Pickleball

Happy New Year! The Pickleball and Paddle Tennis Clubs enjoyed a joint holiday party on December 3. The food and drinks were delicious, and the entertainment was very entertaining. There were many prizes won by attendees including a 50/50 raffle which benefited both clubs, as well as one very lucky recipient.

be January 8 at 1 p.m. and the Sunday Potluck Social Shuffle will be January 29 at 2 p.m. Sign up on the board in the Shuffleboard Pavilion.

Our new officers are headed by President Jim Kinney. For further information about the leagues or playing, please contact him at dothemath99@ yahoo.com

Debra Friedman, debrafriedman0@gmail.com, (949) 230-7195

Tennis

Paddle Tennis

We hope you had a wonderful time at the Paddle/Pickle holiday party. Our officers are busy planning an event schedule for 2023. We hope to bring back our popular social events: Progressive Dinner, Pizza Olympics, Annual Meeting, and Holiday Party We are looking at dates and times for our club tournaments.

Thank you to all our club members who participated in events in 2022. We hope to keep the enthusiasm going

If you want to watch or try Pickleball, come to the courts during club open play on Monday and Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. and Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday from 8 to 11 a.m. Beginners are welcome during open play. We have extra paddles and more experienced players will provide instruction. Pickleball is a great sport for seniors, with many benefits you can read about in this article: Pickleball: Fastest Growing Sport – Especially for Seniors which can be found at https:// muschealth.org/medical-services/ geriatrics-and-aging/healthy-aging/ pickleball

If you have any questions about Pickleball, please contact Metty Thomason at (714) 325-3526, or Donna Guild.

Donna Guild, (949) 446-0005

The recent Casta del Sol Tennis Club holiday party was a sell-out affair and a festive time for all. We are pleased to announce the 2023 Tennis Club Board: President, Bruce Greenberg; Vice President, Lori Franklin; Treasurer, Tony Lawrence; Secretary, Roger Gyger; Social Chair, Judy Gyger; Marketing, Tom McMahan; Tournaments, Jodie Trainer; and Sunshine Rep., Rochelle Lawrence. This enthusiastic group is already hard at work planning a series of lively court and social events for this year.

On the courts, we will be resuming our Monday morning ball-machine practices led by our in-house instructor with his insightful tennis knowledge. We will also be continuing our Saturday morning (8 to 10 a.m.) group events with an informal clinic on one court and round-robin play on the second court. These Saturday sessions are a great way to get back into the game, hone your skills, and meet new players.

Roger Gyger, (630) 430-9045

Shuffleboard

We had a sold-out holiday party that was highlighted by entertainer Tony Rogers, who always exceeds expectations. The new year is a good time to take up a new sport. Shuffleboard is a great option. You can start with lessons and practice on Friday mornings at 10 a.m. with Bob and Mo Caywood.

The Pot of Gold league on Wednesday evening, and the Tuesday morning league are resuming this month. The Wednesday Friendly Shufflers welcome players on Wednesday mornings if you like the “no take-out” style of play. The Sunday Super Shuffle will

News You Can Use Trash Cart Placement

It is important to take your trash and other carts on Wednesdays to the right side of the street when entering your cul-de-sac. This makes it much easier for a one way in and out without any turn-arounds for the trash collection driver. It not only helps them, but it is much less wear and tear on our streets. Also, please put about two feet of space between your carts so the ones next to each other do not inadvertently fall down.

On the Road Again Seal

Beach Main Street

New to SoCal, too busy to explore, or perhaps time to revisit? Debra offers suggestions.

Debra Friedman

Seal Beach is one of the few quintessential sleepy beach communities remaining in Southern California. Walking the main drag of Seal Beach Main Street, you are transported back to earlier days of relaxed living, while experiencing the small-town charm.

During a recent outing to Seal Beach, I met friends on the patio of the Crema Café. It is a quaint bistro, affording people-watching opportunities. Typical of an old-fashioned beach town, there are varied shopping experiences.

Seal Beach Main Street, a three-block stretch, includes a dozen boutiques, specialty shops, and restaurants. An iconic landmark on Main Street is the Bay Theater that was built in 1945 as a single screen movie theater. It was known for its screening of foreign, independent, and revival films as well as the massive Wurlitzer organ used

for concerts and silent films. Registered as a historic landmark, the theater is currently being restored to its original glory.

A stroll to the Seal Beach Pier takes you past several touristy shops. The Seal Beach Pier, built in 1906, is the longest wooden pier in Orange County at over 1,800 feet. Nearby is the Seal Beach Water Tower House built in 1892 by the Southern Pacific Railroad to supply water to steam engines traveling from Santa Barbara to San Diego. After various iterations, it was converted to a home and vacation rental yet it retains its historic appearance.

If you are yearning for the simpler times, head to the place nicknamed “Mayberry by the Sea.”

Reflections of a Casta Newbie

A new resident explores the adventures of Casta.

Nevin Valentine

Have you ever wondered who creates the Casta Courier that arrives on your driveway each month without fail? I can tell you firsthand that, except for the esteemed Editor-in-Chief Judy Clendenin, this community newspaper is the result of a dedicated team of Casa del Sol volunteers. Here’s a glimpse into the meetings where the creation begins.

The leader of an organization sets the tone and I see a lightness of being in Casta Courier Chair Fran Morgan as she leads the monthly staff meeting. Around the table are the volunteers who write the articles, proofread them for accuracy, and take the photos. Everyone is invested in contributing to a top-notch newspaper for their community and truly has a stake in the content and presentation. The camaraderie and shared vision add to the cooperative tone of the meeting, which is run both professionally and with heart. Laugh-

ter, lighthearted comments, and friendly support for one another add to the enjoyment and productivity. I expect this congenial atmosphere to continue beginning in January of 2023 under the new leadership of Editor-in-Chief Charlotte Lassos and Chair Debra Friedman.

Each issue contains reports, features, events and party highlights, and community news to inform and engage Casta residents. Just as the Courier is run by volunteers, so too are the groups, clubs, and committees that provide the content. For example, in January of 2022, new resident Amy Lake became the chair of the Social Committee that creates and hosts parties and events throughout the year. One of the first things Amy did as chair was to begin planning the 50th Anniversary of Casta del Sol. At the event, Amy thanked her ambitious committee of volunteers for a truly once in a lifetime celebration that was, of course, featured in the Courier

At Casta del Sol, there are openings for all of us to volunteer, whether you serve on the Board of Directors, or add inserts to this newspaper each month for delivery. Another option is to just sit back and marvel at this enchanting place to live and read all about it in the Courier!

Holiday Decorating 2022

By Debra Friedman, photos by Kip Isbell

On November 29, the Vista Room came to life with holiday decorations for both Christmas and Hanukkah. The Social Committee invited Casta del Sol residents to help decorate for the holidays. About 25 residents trimmed the Christmas tree that is a centerpiece of the Vista Room throughout December. In addition to lights and ornaments hanging from the tree, brightly wrapped “presents” and nutcrackers surrounded the base.

The Hanukkah décor table has also

become a notable feature for the past few years. There were about 30 Jewish residents representing Team Hanukkah They joined together to provide Hanukkah themed items and “presents” wrapped in Hanukkah paper. The large menorah built by Rich Blumenthal, smaller menorahs, dreidels, Hanukkah gelt (chocolate coins), signs, candles and other décor adorned the table. The blue, silver, and white of the Hanukkah table provided a nice accompaniment to the green and red of the Christmas décor.

Christmas decorators posing by the tree

A treat this year was a performance from an acapella quartet featuring Casta’s own Linda Donohoe singing favorite holiday songs. Following that, resident DJ, Kip Isbell, played holiday tunes for easy listening.

The Social Committee provided delicious hot chocolate and snacks while attendees brought other appetizers and

desserts. The Yaruss family, who head the Jewish ARMDI group, brought jelly donuts, which are a key element of the Hanukkah story.

This Social Committee event was better attended than in the past and served as a wonderful start to the winter holiday season.

Christmas tree and Hanukkah table in the Vista Room decorated by Casta residents

Hanukkah decorators waving peace and shalom

Getting to Know Our Neighbors:

By Claire Readey, photo by Fred Lake

Margie Nelson

veloped. Margie especially loves the country music when others sing along. Margie claims that “with all the music and dancing, I don’t even know I’m exercising!”

So, if you happen by Pool 1 some weekday morning and see Margie waving and smiling at you, you’ll know you’re never too old to try something new!

Who knew the Water Exercise Club gained Margie Nelson, now 94, by default? After moving to Casta del Sol in 2017, Margie took line dancing classes with Barbara Harris. She was planning to continue the fun exercise she had line dancing in Bakersfield since age 65. However, she soon noticed no one else in the CdS line dance classes was close to her age. “All the twirling is not

very good for someone my age. So, I looked for something else and found water exercise.”

Margie found that she loved water exercise. She enjoys the music, the friendly conversation, and lots of smiles, even though she can’t swim. When the pandemic hit, the group was limited to only eight members per day at Pool 2 and close relationships de-

Margie Nelson enjoying water exercise

"With all the music and dancing, I don't even know I'm exercising!"

A Good Read: Apples Never Fall

Book Review by Liz Rickett

The Delaneys built their lives, and the lives of their four children, around tennis. They gave lessons, coached, and owned a tennis facility. The kids are grown, out of the house, and no longer playing competitively. The facility has been sold. The couple is ready to begin a new chapter in their lives, but they are not sure what it will be or how to do it.

Enter a young girl who knocks on their door one night, bruised and barefoot. She explains she has nowhere to go, and their house looked friendly. They take her in. She becomes a part of their lives, cleaning and cooking for them and giving them a focus.

Slowly, secrets are revealed. The family starts to look at what really hap-

pened in the past and what is happening now to all the family members. This book by Liane Moriarty is available in large print in the Casta del Sol Library.

- Courier Committee Members and Staff -

Board Liaison Linda Silverman dirsilverman71@yahoo.com

Courier Chair

Fran Morgan Fmorgan17@cox.net

Courier Associate Chair Kip Isbell kipisbell@live.com

Editor-in-Chief Judy Clendenin jlclendenin@gmail.com

Secretary Debra Friedman debrafriedman0@gmail.com

Section Editors:

Association News April Wilsey aprilincal@gmail.com

Bulletin Board Al Guild alguild@earthlink.net

Casta Connections Donna Guild donnaguild@earthlink.net

Clubs Debra Friedman debrafriedman0@gmail.com

Committees Bob Destino bobdestino@outlook.com

Opinions Kip Isbell kipisbell@live.com

People, Places and Events Fran Morgan Fmorgan17@cox.net

Sports Bob Destino bobdestino@outlook.com

Columnists:

On the Road Again

Debra Friedman debrafriedman0@gmail.com

Reflections of a Casta Newbie Nevin Valentine nevinvalentine@gmail.com

Small Talk Dorothy Frances dfranceswrites@ yahoo com

What’s Cooking Linda Brockmiller LindaBrock@cox.net

Feature Writers: Bob Destino bobdestino@outlook.com

Debra Friedman debrafriedman0@gmail.com Jeff McCoy jmactr1@gmail.com

Fran Morgan Fmorgan17@cox.net Liz Rickett lizrickett@me.com

Parizad Sethna Parizad9@outlook.com

Jo Steciuk beejul@cox.net

Staff Photographers : Darrell Holdaway holdaway@gmail.com

Fred Lake lakebcbc@gmail.com

Jeff McCoy jmactr1@gmail.com

Photo Coordinator: Kip Isbell kipisbell@live.com

Proofreaders: Bob Destino bobdestino@outlook.com

Donna Guild donnaguild@earthlink.net

Dottie Lewis dottielewis19@gmail.com

Evelyn Rothert erothert@sbcglobal.net

Judy Barrett lvbarretts20@gmail.com Suzanne Moore jsmoore830@gmail.com

Delivery Preparations: David Ankeny candyman803@gmail.com

Courier Volunteers

Calling All Stuffers!

Judy Barrett

Barbara Brantley

Ree Brickman

Patti Brotherton

Mike Carr

Arline Chenarides

Joan Corbin

Jayne Freed

Debra Friedman

Barbara Harris

Judy Horner

Elaine Isbell

Kip Isbell

Sue Johnson

Eliana Jordan

Fred Lake

Shelly Lethio

Ann Loranger

Mary Ellen Marcus

Cathy McCoy

Deb McCoy

Jeff McCoy

Beverly McKeon

Susan McKeon

Fran Morgan

Linda Nohe

Jean Nutter

Judy Paskey

Marsha Rasmussen

Liz Rickett

Kathy Schinas

Richard Scott

Barry Silverman

Linda Silverman

Myrna Smith

Marlene Solem

Linda Swain

Dolores Thompson

Pam Townsend

Linda Walters

Grala Warren