Leisure World News July 2025 Issue

Red Mountain Majesty

United States and Our Home in Arizona

speed limit on Leisure World Blvd is 25 mph. Please be respectful of

Photo Courtesy Doug MacLeod See more monsoon photos on page A16-A17.

CONTACTING LEISURE WORLD

Leisure World staff is available by phone Monday through Friday during normal business hours. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 480-832-0000. Dial the extension for the department that will best address your needs. For all emergencies, call 9-1-1 before notifying the LW Security Department at ext. 601.

LWCA DIRECTORY

Main Number: 480-832-0000

Administration Reception Ext. 101 reception@lwca.com

Village Medical

LW On-Site Office 480-977-6349

Compliance Office Ext. 115

Facilities Department Ext. 109 facilities@lwca.com

Finance Department Ext. 119 finance@lwca.com

Fitness Center Ext. 212 fitness@lwca.com

Golf Coyote Run: Ext. 300 Heron Lakes: Ext. 400

Golf Course Conditions 480-832-0005

Landscape Department Ext. 201 landscape@lwca.com

Library Ext. 128

LW News/Communications Ext. 210 news@lwca.com outreach@lwca.com

Recreation Department Ext. 209 recreation@lwca.com

RE/MAX Classic Ext. 705

Resource Office Ext. 126 resources@lwca.com

Security Department Opt. 1 security@lwca.com

Welcome New Owners

Picture This

Leisure World is updating our database. If it’s been more than 3 years since you had your picture taken for Leisure World, or if you never have, please stop by the Administration Front Desk to have your picture taken any weekday between 9 am and 2 pm. Some of our current photos of residents are outdated and/or unrecognizable. A recognizable, current photo will help enhance security and keep our software updated.

Golf Cart Path Rules

Please be sure to make yourself and your guests familiar with our Rules & Regulations regarding the use of golf cart paths. These rules are also posted at Coyote Run and Heron Lakes pro shops.

Leisure World News

Owned by the Leisure World Community Association. Published monthly on the 1st

Communications/LW News Office: 480-832-0000 ext. 210, news@lwca.com

Communications and Community Affairs Director: + Diana Bridgett, dbridgett@lwca.com

Communications Supervisor: Carley Cathemer, ccathemer@lwca.com

Advertising Specialist: Elizabeth Ramos, eramos@lwca.com

Graphic Designer: Erica Odello, eodella@lwca.com

Contributing Writers: E.B. Blacke, Sue De Carlo, Larry Caves, Patti Diamond, Mary Ellen doValle, C. Barry Ingerson, Dr. Carol S. Kessler PhD, Sherry Rinddels-Larsen Ken Weinstock, and Kay West

LW Newspaper Resident Advisor: Ronda Gates, MS

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: 480-832-0000 Ext. 117 or eramos@lwca.com

DEADLINE FOR ADS: 15th of month

The acceptance of advertising in LW News does not constitute an endorsement or approval of any products or services by LWCA or management.

DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES:

HELP US KEEP COSTS DOWN: ONE COPY OF LW NEWS PER RESIDENT PLEASE.

No Board and District Meetings for Summer

Board and district meetings will resume in October.

District Chair Email Addresses

District1@ LWCA.com, District3@ LWCA.com, District4@ LWCA.com, District5@ LWCA.com, District6@ LWCA.com, District7@ LWCA.com, District8@ LWCA.com

Memorialize Your Pet

Plaques for the dog park are now available at AlphaGraphics. Purchase your plaque for a nominal fee at AlphaGraphics and then make a $50 donation to Leisure World to memorialize your pet. Bring your $50 to the finance office, then bring your plaque and Finance receipt to the Facilities office. plaques will be installed on a monthly basis. 4" x 2" metal plaques are $12 each. There are two color choices: Black with gold letters or gold with black letters.

AlphaGraphics is located at 7143 E Southern Ave, Suite 113, Mesa on the right side of the road.

Wednesday Coffee

July 2nd ,9th ,16th ,23rd and 30th

Leisure World Wednesday Morning Coffee is open to all residents. The wonderful volunteers of the Wednesday Morning Hospitality Committee hosts this event.

Leisure World cordially invites all to Wednesday Coffee. Visit with fellow residents and learn about Leisure World from a resident’s perspective. Join us for Coffee and light snacks in the Clubroom at Rec.1 just across from the Courtyard, every Wednesday from 8:00 to 10:00 am.

How to Run for District Office 2025

Do you want to get involved in Leisure World and make a difference! One great way to do so is by serving your District Council! The elections for District 1,3,5 and 7 will be held on Tuesday, November 18th. Now, is the time to get your name on the ballot! Here is a breakdown of the process.

1. Select a Position: There are three District Council positions. There is the District Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary/Treasurer. One person can maintain the duties of the two positions, or they can be divided among three individuals. They may be split if separate nominations are received for Secretary and Treasurer positions. Council members will be elected for a two-year term.

2. Expression of Interest Form: The first step is to submit an Expression of Interest Form where you will provide a brief history of your qualifications. It can be found on the Leisure World resident website, and at the Reception desk in the Admin bld. where all forms are located. Once the form is completed, send it to your District Nominating Committee Member or to Robin Mann in Admin.

3. Résumé: Fill out a brief résumé. You can find the résumé form on the resident website and at the Reception desk in the Admin bld. where all forms are

located. If you are considered an eligible candidate, this information will be published in the Leisure World newspaper for residents to get to know you better. Once the form is completed, send it to your District Nominating Committee Member or to Robin Mann in Admin.

4. Nominating Committee: Each District Council has a district member on the nominating committee, for a total of seven people. The committee will review all expression of interest submissions and submit a report of eligible candidates to the Admin Office by Tuesday, September 30th. Residents will be notified at October 7, 2025 Work Session and via Eblast.

Good luck! For questions, contact your District Nominating Representative.

D 1 Diane Andersen – manor 300 480-395-5515 azpatriot13@gmail.com

D-3 John Miller – manor 651 480-981-1955 johncmiller653@gmail.com

D 5 Beverly Rudnick – manor 2773 602-909-3989  beverlyrudnick@gmail.com

D 7 Peggy Larson – manor 1310 404-606-2464 pegmdl@gmail.com

REMINDER:

All offices will be closed on Friday, July 4th in observance of the holiday.

Find Penny the Swan

Meet Penny, the resident swan of the Leisure World Newspaper. Penny the Swan is hiding inside one of the three sections of the paper. After the 15th of each month we choose a winner at random, winners will be awarded a small gift certificate!

Rules:

• Your email must be sent to news@lwca.com.

• Penny’s location must consist of the page number she was found on as well as the title of the article she is closest to.

• Gift certificates are to be picked up in the Communications Office.

• All correct answers will be collected by the 15th of each month and the winner will be chosen at random.

• There will only be one winner per month.

Make a Lasting Legacy: Your Gift Matters

Why, Where, & How You Can Donate to Leisure World

Donations are vital to maintaining the beauty and functionality of our shared spaces here in Leisure World. Some of our most beloved spaces are a result of the generosity of our residents.

Just a few things donations have and could assist with:

•Tennis and Pickleball Courts

•Community Lakes and Fountains

•Walking Paths and Dog Park

•The Library

•Modernization of Facilities

•Dedicated Benches

•The Golf Courses

•Trees and Shrubbery

•The Computer Lab

•The Fiber Arts Studio

How to donate: Anyone interested in donating to Leisure World can do so by cash, check, or card at the Finance Department in the Rec.1 Administration building.

Leisure World Community Association is a not-for-profit community. No donation is too small to make a difference, whether it is a one-time gift or a reoccurring contribution, your support is appreciated. Thank you!

Recycling Options Inside and Outside LW

Inside the Walls

Lions Club:

Drop off sites: Rec. 1 Admin parking lot & Promenade, Rec. 2 parking lot near back, Coyote Run

Pro shop a. Cans at Rec. 1 & Rec. 2

Eyeglasses c. Old flags

Phones e. Hearing aides f. Hearing aid batteries

Outside the Walls

J&C Recycling No fees. They accept and pay for cans and plastic only.

431 S. Stapley Dr. Ste. 21 Mesa, AZ 85204 480-232-4482

Mesa Recycling Center

Cans, cardboard, paper, plastic, & glass 116 West Broadway, Mesa, AZ 480-639-0116

M-F 8-4 pm SAT 8-12 pm

SA Recycling No fees. They accept and pay for metal only. 12 W. Southern Ave, Mesa, AZ 85210 480-964-1177

Household Hazards Waste: 2412 North Center Street, Mesa, AZ 480-644-4463 T 7-12pm W/TH/F/SAT 7-2pm Closed SUN/MON

Barb's Board Bulletin

Leisure World is a wonderful community that was established over fifty years ago and has seen years of development and changes.

The board’s goal is to continually strive for improvements for our residents. People choose to live in Leisure World for a myriad of reasons, 24/7 security, the pools, golf courses, green spaces, club activities, and numerous other amenities.

Leisure World is a self-funded community. All maintenance, business costs (taxes, insurances, utilities, salaries), improvements, and amenity additions are paid for by HOA dues. The administration staff and Board of Directors try to find the right balance to keep Leisure World modern and up to date. Keeping the grounds and buildings properly maintained adds to our individual property values and attracts new residents.

This summer, your Board of Director’s President

Editor’s Note

is compiling information from other 55+ active adult communities by reaching out to their Board of Directors and administration staff. Questions include: How does Leisure World compare? What challenges are these other communities facing? What are their sources of revenue? By gathering data, we can hopefully glean more ideas for improvements and ensure that Leisure World is the standard of excellence for active adult communities in the East Valley. The summarized findings will be shared with residents and administration once complete.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July everyone! Be sure you’re all staying hydrated and protecting your skin. July is sure to be a scorcher, so I encourage you all to take advantage of the indoor events, classes or clubs taking place around the community.

Carley’s Corner

In my office there is a saying that gets thrown around, “If you’re bored at L.W. it is because you want to be.” With all the events going on, I hope you all have found a group that brings you joy. Whether you have found that group or are still looking, I highly encourage all to attend the meeting on July 17th at 12 p.m. in the Rec. 1 Theatre. Our Outreach specialist is bringing in members of the Wish of a Lifetime by AARP group to do a presentation

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

to our community. The group does incredible things for the older population, granting seniors wishes and helping them check off their bucket list items

We have included one of their wish stories on page A10- about Bobbi and her wish to be part of the racetrack again. Their website is full of sweet homecomings, wholesome wishes and of course the occasional adrenaline fanatic.

All are invited and welcome.

Lp(a), a lesser known cholesterol, could be increasing your risk of heart attack 3x. A FREE Lp(a) test can provide you valuable insight into your heart attack risk.

Lp(a), which can be genetically elevated, plays a crucial role in heart health. Elevated levels of this cholesterol heightens the risk of cardiovascular disease and it's not included in standard cholesterol tests. At Care Access, we're offering a free test to assess your Lp(a) level and provide insights into your heart health.

June's Penny the Swan Answer

I just can’t believe that it’s here so soon. We’re already into the month of June. I’m sitting here enjoying the summer sun, Hoping, like Penny, to have some fun.

In section B, on page number 3, She was sitting there regally for all to see. She told me I had to get up and move, And find out about this “Grub and Groove”.

So, enjoy yourselves the whole month through. I’m sure you’ll find there’s lots to do. And to all the dads, wherever you may be, “Happy Father’s Day” from Penny and me.

Patty O’Brien Manor 769

Audio Fetch for the Hearing Impaired

For those who use hearing aids, our Recreation Department will be hosting a walk-in event in the Rec. 1 Ballroom, July 14th from 10:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m. to assist those who are interested in connecting to our new hearing impaired audio system.

Please note that your hearing aids must already be connected to your cell phone prior to coming to the event.

The Things that Make Us Smile

In the June 2025 edition of the LW Newspaper, we posed the question: What are songs that remind you of the summertime?

The Communications Team shared some of our favorites and we asked our readers to share their thoughts.

Here are the responses we received: “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys: I can’t listen to it without immediately wanting to drink an icy pina colada with a juicy pineapple on the rim.  “Under the Boardwalk” by The Drifter: Reminds me of summers in San Diego with my family, especially camping at Camp Pendleton with my grandparents. ~ Jessica Montes, LW Outreach Coordinator

“Cruel Summer” by Bananarama ~Jill Davis, LW Event Scheduler

“Mr. Blue Sky” by ELO & “Hooked on a Feeling” by Björn Skifs and Blue Swede ~Erica LeBaron, LW Fitness Specialist

“All Summer Long” by Kid Rock...c’mon we’ve all been there roll the window down and blast it! “Summer in the City” by Lovin’ Spoonfuls...hot city nights! “Born to Run” by Springsteen, driving to the beach with friends, windows downbeach bag with tanning oil, sunglasses, snacks, hoping to meet all the boys on Cape Cod with a sailboat. ~Nancy Zielenski, LW Fitness Specialist

“Day Drinking” by Little Big Town, “Boondocks” by Little Big Town, “When the Sun Goes Down” by Kenny Chesney & Uncle Kracker, and “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” by Jake Owen. ~Christine Kluza, Fitness Administrative Assistant

“Summertime” by Will Smith & “California Girls” by Katy Perry ~Diana Bridgett, Director of Communications and Community Affairs

Other residents submitted the following songs “You Never Can Tell” by Chuck Berry ~anonymous resident (with great music taste)

“Chicken Fried” by Zac Brown Band “Saturday Night” by Bay City Rollers “Peaceful Easy Feeling” by The Eagles “Good Directions” Billy Currington “(Sittin’ on) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding “Sunshine on My Shoulders” by John Denver

Happy listening and check out next month’s paper for our next question!

LIBRARY LINES

by Sue De Carlo

Meet An Author New to the LW Library – Andy Corren had a very unconventional upbringing which he describes in his first book; Dirtbag Queen a memoir of his mother. He was brought up with a sister and 4 brothers in the poorest sections of Fayetteville, North Carolina. After graduating from Westover High School Corin studied acting and after many failures at acting became a talent agent. He recently closed his talent agency to focus on writing. He and his son live in Greene County, New York.

Reviews of New Acquisitions - Unless otherwise stated the review opinions are my own and the ratings are from the readers at goodreads.com.

Review of New Author’s Book - Non-Fiction Memoir – Dirtbag Queen by Andy Corren This off-beat book is an outrageous, engaging, maddening, humorous love story to the most unusual family I have ever come across. While telling the reader about his irreverent, disrespectful, bawdy, funny, self-indulgent, red neck mother; Renay Mandel Corren we also learn about life in the 1980s south for a poor white gay boy who happens to be of Jewish heritage. I found the book very interesting, funny and a testament of a child’s love for his mother and his siblings. 65% rated 4 or 5 stars.

LP Western - Dead Land – Cass Callahan Book One by Chris Mullen This is the first book in a new series introducing former Houston cop Cass Callahan his wife Raven, The CR Ranch in west Texas, Sherrif Chance Gilbert and hard-edged ranch manager Levi Flint. All of the above-named people and places are major characters in this modern western mystery thriller. Mullen does a masterful job detailing the characters while also creating an exciting story with many twists and surprises. 87% rated 4 or 5 stars

LP Mystery (Historical Fiction) – Who Will Remember (Sebastian St. Cyr book #20) by C.S. Harris Set in the first quarter of 19th century England this well researched murder mystery delightfully incorporates details of social, economic, political and physical life at that time. As one becomes enveloped in the unfolding details of the mystery, the reader learns too about how life is lived both by the rich and the poor with focus on how the rich and powerful view the poor and how deliberately badly the poor are treated. 81% rated 4 or 5 stars.

LP Fiction – The Beijing Betrayal (A Marcus Ryker Geo-Political Thriller) by Joel C. Rosenberg. Ryker, an elite CIA operative, continues chasing a Muslim terror group that blew up a stadium in Chicago during a mass led by the pope and attended by the US president. While in Pakistan Ryker discovers a secret lab concocting a deadly virus to be released in the USA. Meanwhile President Gonzales is in trade negotiations with China that is secretly planning to invade Tai Wan. This fast-paced, well written thriller is a real page turner and will keep the reader on the edge of a chair. 91% rated 4 or 5 stars.

RP Mystery – Death On Wolf Fell (A Jessica Raker Police Procedural Thriller) by Nick Oldham Sargeant Raker is in charge of a police unit in Lancastershire England. In this story Jessica is after an old schoolmate, Meg, who just happens to run the local drug gang. The reader gets to know the well-drawn characters and the settings in which the story unfolds through the very detailed descriptions of characters, actions and settings. There are twists and turns galore in this tale of violence and greed against decency and honor 100% of reviewers on NetGalley.com rated 4 or 5 stars.

RP Fiction – The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff – This is a beautifully written story of love, pain, addiction, secrets, tragedies and triumphs told from three points of view, wife/mother, husband/father and daughter. It covers 60 years in a family’s life. This story will make you cry and laugh, feel compassion and anger, sorrow and joy. A masterful first novel. 83% rated 4 or 5 stars.

OUTREACH

Happy July Leisure World

I hope you all are enjoying your summer so far and have been able to take in the spectacular sunsets we’ve been having lately—they are a lovely consolation for dealing with this heat.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to experience, but never had the opportunity? A hot air balloon ride? Meeting up with a long-lost friend? Seeing the Grand Canyon? I am excited to host a very special presentation on July 17th at 12pm (theater) on a program called Wish of a Lifetime. Wish of a Lifetime by AARP provides an incredible opportunity for older adults to fulfill their lifelong dreams through

personalized experiences that promote healthy and purposeful aging. Joe Womeldorf from AARP will speak to our community about the transformational power of having a wish granted. Don’t miss it!

Last month I wrote about starting a neighborhood program to help link resident volunteers with other residents who may need some extra connection. I am thinking of calling the program “Hearts of Leisure”, but I welcome all feedback. Please let me know if you would either be interested in volunteering or having a neighbor reach out to you.

More About Wish of a Lifetime

Leisure World ‘s Outreach Coordinator Jessica Montes will be hosting a presentation July 17th at 12 p.m. in the Rec. 1 Theatre on this program- Wish of a Lifetime. All are welcome to attend, below is more about them and one of the wishes they have granted. We hope to see you there!

Our mission

As a charitable affiliate of AARP, Wish of a Lifetime® sparks hope and joy in the hearts of older adults by fulfilling their dreams through personalized experiences that promote healthy and purposeful aging. We share these stories to inspire those of all ages.

The following is a wish story from the Wish of a Lifetime website, for more stories and photos of Bobbi visit- https://wishofalifetime.org/wish/bobbi-drives-anascar-race-car/

Bobbi Drives a NASCAR Race Car

Clear blue waters teeming with marine life, towering volcanoes, and endless waves are all things synonymous with Hawaii for its more than 9 million visitors each year. But for Bobbi, now 83, some of her best memories of a childhood spent in Hawaii are also filled with revving engines, spinning tires, and cheering crowds.

It was here at amateur car competitions that Bobbi’s love of race cars began. While the racetrack was a place with fewer opportunities for women, she vividly remembers the rush of adrenaline she felt while watching her brother Marshall race cars in Honolulu.

Growing up in a working-class family, Marshall saved every penny he could to buy his own race car. Bobbi loved cheering him on, but her passion for racing grew much deeper than that.

“I always wanted to race, but my family did not have the means to help me achieve this dream,” remembered Bobbi.

When she did have a chance to race in a Powder Puff Derby, a special event for female drivers, Bobbi was thrilled to drive on an actual track. But when it rained on race day, the event was cut short, and Bobbi never got to complete it.

“Telling my story recently has energized me to think that I may be able to race one more time,” Bobbi explained. “I have the need for speed, baby!”

Decades passed, and Bobbi relocated to Colorado, but dreams of getting behind the wheel remained on the sidelines. She raised two boys as a devoted mother, working two jobs to make ends meet, which left little room for luxuries like racing.

Bobbi went on to have a successful career as an executive secretary, and served in many volunteer roles over the years, including PTA and Boy Scouts.

A highlight was when she served as the state president of Colorado for the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, an organization dedicated to advocating for and advancing women in the workforce.

Currently, Bobbi resides at a senior living community, where she continues to volunteer behind the scenes. She stays busy with sewing, quilting, and painting, and leads a quiet life.

Through it all, Bobbi has remained a devoted fan of NASCAR racing. Her wish was to have the opportunity to race on a track once again.

Wish of a Lifetime was excited to grant Bobbi’s wish that would feed both her adventurous spirit and love of the sport.

Her dream came true at the  Pikes Peak International Raceway (PPIR) in Colorado, with her son and daughter-in-law watching from the sidelines.

Borrowing a retired race car belonging to Joe Garone, current COO of PPIR, Bobbi took to the track under a clear blue Colorado sky—not a drop of rain would cut her experience short this time.

After being fitted with a helmet and personalized racing suit, getting a tour of the garage, and completing an orientation, Bobbi got behind the wheel with an experienced driver beside her in the passenger seat. She drove the race car herself around and around the 1-mile oval track.

“I made it!” Bobbi exclaimed as she completed her drive. “Just the sound of this motor and being behind this wheel! You step on the brake, and you hear it slowing, and you step on the gas, and hear  roarrrrr—I tell you!”

As Bobbi drove, female race car drivers of all ages filled the sidelines of the racetrack, cheering, “Go, Bobbi, go!” Friends from her senior living community also attended, waving handmade signs in support of Bobbi. After she’d had her fill of the driver’s seat, the team at PPIR helped Bobbi into the passenger seat. Her driving companion, Kyle, then took her on the ride of her life—spinning in circles and burning rubber in a way that Bobbi had never experienced.

Afterward, Bobbi said she was happy to cross NASCAR racing off her bucket list, and ended the day elated. “Nothing can ever, ever top this,” Bobbi said. “Never in my wildest dreams did I ever think I would get in a race car, but I did!”

Leisure World Lions Club

Did you know that both President John Adams and President Thomas Jefferson died on JULY 4, 1826? This also marked the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Show Honor & Respect For Our Freedom By Joining Our “Fly The Flag” Program

Lion Club members, along with community volunteers, work to make this program a success.

Applications can be found at lwlionsflags@gmail.com

Mail application plus $40 check to: LW Lions Club, PO Box 6905, Mesa AZ 89216

DID YOU KNOW: Your L.W. Lions Club welcomes volunteers who are not Lion members? We have a large number of opportunities to choose from. Contact Lion Kathy Murray at: kmurray6694@gmail.com for a list of our projects.

SPOTLIGHT: An anonymous donor gifted Camp Tatiyee with a 12-foot Old Town canoe!

Donations are always welcome, but yours was truly amazing! Both your LW Lions Club and Camp Tatiyee are very grateful and appreciate your generosity very much. The Camp Tatiyee kids will enjoy this for many years to come.

Help Make A Difference In A Child’s Life This Summer!

Please unite with the LW Lions and make a donation to help fund the camp. They are a 501c3 non-profit and you can receive an Arizona Charitable Tax Credit for your donation.

CAMP TATIYEE FUND DRIVE

To donate, visit www.camptatiyee.org

Or, checks can be made/sent out to: Lions Camp Tatiyee PO Box 6910 Mesa, AZ 85216

Your donations will help get kids to camp! Thank you!

July/August ends your LW Lions Club 2025 drive to raise awareness and seek donations for Camp Tatiyee. The Camp is located in Lakeside, northern Arizona. Camp Tatiyee provides a FREE true summer camp experience for special needs children. There are 24-hour services available to meet the needs of all campers

Camp Tatiyee is committed to including all campers in ambitious programming that includes: Archery, Robotics, Dance, Science, Go Karts, Kayaks, and a Talent Show .

Open your heart and make a tax-deductible donation to help get these special kids to camp!!

WHAT IS YOUR LOCAL LEISURE WORLD LIONS CLUB ALL ABOUT?

It is a part of the Lions Club International Foundation (LCIF). Founded in 1917, it is the world’s largest service organization with over 1.4 million members in 45,000 clubs worldwide. “WE SERVE” is our motto with active men and women in 206+ countries and geographic areas.

Their main purpose is to empower Lions Clubs, volunteers, and partners to improve health and well-being; strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian service and grants that impact lives globally. LCIF is focused on making a positive difference in the world.

School Supplies Are Needed Now!

The LW Lions will start collecting school items for Jefferson Elementary School in June and July, as school begins in late July Watch for a list of specific items coming soon.

Donations may be dropped off at the Admin office or Rec 2. The bins are ready to be filled! OR, bring your school donation items to Lion Anita Robinson's home at #1769.

Thank You!

The Arizona summer heat really takes a toll on many of them throughout our Leisure World community! Please remember, as homeowners, it is our responsibility to maintain the appearance of our mailboxes.

For a fee of just $25, a member of the Lions Club will paint your mailbox and make it look new again!

Help Us Keep Kids Warm!

Dear full time and seasonal residents, It’s not too early to start collecting gently used coats your grandchildren have outgrown or no longer need.

Your Leisure World Lions Club will once again be collecting these coats for Jefferson Elementary School, a Title 1 school serving low-income students. Please gather them this summer so that in the fall you can turn them in during our November coat drive. Thank You! The children truly appreciate receiving these items!

Full-time and seasonal residents, it’s not too early to start collecting gently used coats your grandchildren no longer need or pick them up while thrift shopping this summer.

Your Leisure World Lions Club are once again collecting these coats for Jefferson Elementary School, a Title I School with low-income students.

When you return in the Fall, you can start turning them in during October and November. The children truly appreciate receiving these items.

Lion Becky Moltz Project Chair, Coat Collection Becky.moltz55@gmail.com

Submitted by:

Lion Kathy Murray Publications Manager

8 Fun Fourth of July Festivals Around the United States

https://www.travelpulse.com/news/destinations/8fun-fourth-of-july-festivals-around-the-united-states

Williamsburg, Virginia

If you’re a history lover, you’ve got to visit Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown, Virginia for their 4th of July celebrations. These historic places offer readings of the Declaration of Independence in a historic Colonial town, fireworks displays at the Governor’s Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, opportunities to watch Yorktown’s fireworks from a schooner on the water and so much more.

Those who want to immerse themselves in the revolution, or simply learn more about it, can visit The American Revolution Museum, which offers a July 4 Liberty Celebration with artillery demonstrations, recreations of a Continental Army encampment, and a Revolution-era farm that brings it all to life.

“There’s no doubt about it – Yorktown knows how to celebrate Independence Day,” explained Kristi Olsen-Hayes, Director of York County Economic & Tourism Development. “After all, it was the site of the final battle of the American Revolution. This July 4th, witness the heart of freedom at our annual parade on Historic Main Street. Hear the stirring cadence of the Fifes & Drums of Yorktown and listen to readings of the Declaration of Independence. As the sky ignites with fireworks and glimmers over the York River, join us as we unite in gratitude for the enduring spirit that defines our nation.”

Columbus, Ohio

Each year, over 400,000 travelers visit Columbus, Ohio for its 4th of July celebrations. Why, you ask? Columbus is home to the Midwest’s largest Independence Day celebration, offering the biggest fireworks show and a large 2.5-mile event space in the heart of downtown. Live entertainment includes a parade and stress festival and live music, all culminating in a spectacular evening fireworks display, called Red, White and Boom!

“As the largest fireworks display in the Midwest and one of the best Fourth of July events in the country, Red, White and Boom! lights up the sky and wows visitors,” said Sarah Townes, Chief Marketing Officer at Experience Columbus. “...With prime viewing locations scattered throughout the city, visitors will find a spot with spectacular views no matter where they choose to watch the display.”

“Columbus really is the perfect place to celebrate Independence Day,” Townes continued. “The city shows its deep respect for our nation’s heroes through its many military memorials, like the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. This museum is the only one in the country that honors all veterans from every branch of service and from all eras of our nation’s military history, encompassing both peacetime and wartime service.”

Bar Harbor, Maine

Fireworks in Bar Harbor, Maine during Independence Day.

Consistently rated one of the nation’s top Independence Day celebrations, travelers heading to Bar Harbor, Maine are likely to find the coastal city’s 4th of July events more than memorable.

Travelers will enjoy several awesome events, from a pancake breakfast fundraiser to a craft fair, Independence Day Parade, seafood festival, live music concert series, town band performance and a signature fireworks performance. Onlookers can enjoy the fireworks on the lawn on Agamont Park, or make reservations for a restaurant overlooking Frenchman Bay and enjoy a delicious meal with dazzling views.

“We are thrilled to invite everyone to Bar Harbor’s July 4th Celebration, a tradition recognized by the Today Show and one of the top ten in the U.S. by National Geographic,” said Everal Eaton, executive director of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.

“With a full day of events including our beloved parade, a concert series, and a stunning fireworks display over Frenchman Bay, it’s no wonder people love spending Independence Day here.”

“Summer is also a fantastic time to be in Bar

Harbor, with numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures, local dining, and shopping at small businesses,” Eaton continued. “We encourage visitors to plan ahead so they can fully maximize their July 4th Bar Harbor experience!”

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Music lovers will love Atlantic City, New Jersey’s 4th of July celebration. The city, known for its entertainment such as great beaches, historic boardwalk and casinos, will offer a weekend-long event offering a concert series with notable artists like Kesha, Hassan Minhaj, J. Worra, Dom Dolla and BIG GIGANTIC.

Travelers can watch the 4th of July fireworks from the Atlantic City Boardwalk, which was the nation’s first boardwalk in 1870. From there, travelers can watch the hotels and casinos light up magnificent fireworks displays throughout the weekend.

“July 4th weekend in Atlantic City is always an exciting time filled with events across the destination that cater to a diverse group of visitors looking to celebrate any occasion,” said Larry Sieg, President and CEO of Visit Atlantic City. “During the holiday, visitors will laugh, dance, and sing along to incredible performances by Kesha, Hassan Minhaj, Dom Dolla, and BIG GIGANTIC at the many casino resorts throughout the destination.”

“Visitors will be dazzled by vibrant fireworks displays throughout the weekend presented by North Beach and Tropicana Atlantic City overlooking the glistening Atlantic Ocean,” Sieg continued. “We’re thrilled to showcase all that Atlantic City has to experience for one of the best weekends of the summer.”

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Could the City of Brotherly Love’s Independence Day celebrations be the longest in the nation?

The city, which played an important role during the Revolution and the founding of the United States, offers sixteen days of events from Juneteenth to July 4, ensuring all travelers heading to the city will have plenty of ways to celebrate

The city will offer several museum programs for the holiday, including an Independence Week Celebration at the National Constitution Center and Fourth of July Week 2024 at the Museum of the American Revolution.

History lovers can watch early fireworks from the historic Battleship New Jersey on Saturday, June 29, or celebrate the Continental Congress’s vote for independence on July 2 in the city’s Historic District with the Red, White & Blue To-Do

Additionally, the city will offer a parade and plenty of fun picnics ahead of Philadelphia’s Wawa Welcome America concert and festival featuring NE-YO and Kesha, followed by the city’s fireworks display over its Museum of Art.

“There’s no better place to celebrate Independence Day than right here in Philadelphia,” said Angela Val, President & CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “From Juneteenth to the Fourth of July, our 16 days of programming will embody freedom and liberty, amplifying different perspectives on what independence means in the birthplace of America.”

“Visitors of all ages can enjoy a wide range of celebrations throughout the city—many of which are free—including our annual Wawa Welcome America festival featuring NE-YO and Kesha, complimentary admission days to 40 museums and attractions and more.”

Galveston Island, Texas

Galveston Island’s Independence Day parade follows the scenic coastline each year. If you’re looking for a change of scenery that includes a gorgeous beach from which to view some beautiful fireworks this Independence Day, consider Galveston Island

The island offers an Independence Day celebration with that quintessential small-town feel, with an

annual parade and, after a beautiful sunset, an evening fireworks show over the Gulf of Mexico. It’s only 45 minutes away from the large city of Houston, but the destination’s fresh seafood and scenic coastline might just convince you you’re somewhere else!

The island is the birthplace of Juneteenth and is home to several historic attractions travelers will love to visit during a trip over the Independence Day holiday, including several historic homes and mansions, the Tall Ship ELISSA, the East End Historic District and The Grand 1894 Opera House.

“Heading to Galveston Island for the 4th of July weekend is a perfect family getaway,” said Mart Beth Bassett, CTA, Senior Public Relations Manager for Visit Galveston. “Not only are there fireworks and a parade, but they take place over the beautiful Gulf of Mexico along the beach. And, there’s plenty to do beyond the beach while you’re here – from strolling historic downtown to exploring the seaport and enjoying delicious, fresh seafood. Galveston Island is a quick 45 minutes from Houston and it’s a world away.”

Reno Tahoe, Nevada

Want to combine your next adventure or naturefilled getaway with an Independence Day celebration? Look no further than Reno Tahoe, Nevada!

Reno Tahoe offers plenty for travelers who are there on July 4, including a local minor league baseball game, several fireworks shows, including at Incline Village and Victorian Square in Sparks, several exhibits and performances during a month-long arts festival in Reno called Artown and, for those who really want to enjoy as many fireworks as possible, a July 5 celebration at Silver Legacy Resort.

And this can all be enjoyed in between the incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure activities to be had along the picturesque Lake Tahoe.

“We look forward to welcoming new and returning travelers to our urban basecamp of Reno Tahoe this July for a time of excitement, unity and celebration on Independence Day,” says Mike Larragueta, President and CEO of Reno Tahoe. “This year marks the return of the breathtaking Fourth of July fireworks at Incline Village and Crystal Bay, once ranked among the nation’s best.”

“After a five-year hiatus to protect our surrounding environment, we’re excited to bring back this cherished tradition and encourage those celebrating to respect their environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles to honor both our nation and the stunning landscape we call home,” Larragueta continued. “Holiday visitors can also enjoy America’s favorite pastime with the Reno Aces and enjoy postgame fireworks, explore Artown, our month-long arts festival, or take part in The Star Spangled Sparks event at Victorian Square with local food, crafts, and fireworks.”

Seattle, Washington

Seattle, Washington is offering a great Fourth of July selection of events from the third to the seventh, with the Mariners playing home games each night, ten cruise shop dockings, Missy Elliott performing at Climate Pledge Arena on July 6 and plenty of other fun sporting events around the city.

Yet the biggest event will be, of course, Independence Day. Seafair Summer Fourth will offer fireworks for people picnicking at Gas Works Park, South Lake Union Park and Lake Union Park.

“The 4th of July is the unofficial start of summer in Seattle, and the city is ready to shine with sunny skies and plenty of ways for visitors and locals to celebrate the holiday weekend,” said Michael Woody, Senior Vice President and Chief Communications Officer for Visit Seattle. “The annual Seafair 4th of July fireworks show dazzles from viewpoints all around Lake Union, as well as neighborhood parades and a full schedule of home games for our men’s and women’s soccer teams, Seattle Storm women’s basketball and the Seattle Mariners. Come join the party!”

Fun Facts: Fourth of July

The Beginning of Independence

The Declaration of Independence was approved on July 4, 1776, by the 2nd Continental Congress leading 13 colonies to gain independence. This holiday of freedom is celebrated with various festivities that include fireworks, parades, concerts, and time with family. There were 56 signers to the Declaration of Independence and among them a committee of 5 (Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston) drafted the declaration. Then &

Population of the First 13 States and Their U.S. House of Representatives Seats

Celebrating With a Bang!

• Approximately $470 million — The value of fireworks imported into the

Stars and Stripes

• $4.7 million — The value of U.S. imports of American

• $2 million — The value of U.S. flags exported in 2024.

Backyard Barbecues

In the United States in 2022, there were…

• 183 businesses that made household appliances, including barbecue grills

• 266 businesses who use paper and cardboard to make different products, such as paper plates and cups

• 751 snack food manufacturers.

Note: These are for establishments with employees.

“Oh yes, I’m over 45 years old,” I replied boldly. “I’m 48 now.”

I was at a fork in the road of my life’s journey—that much I did know. One morning, I awoke with a sudden realization: I needed more home. I wanted to stay in Arizona a little longer. I needed a return to myself, which included the cacti, the desert landscapes, the cooing of morning doves, the musky, copper-scented air after the rain, those quiet canvas-painted sunrises, and the amber-gold sunsets behind the shadowed palms.

This Mesa girl, who had left her sunshine state at 22 to build a big life, was now being called home—to be still. To embrace solitude for a while. To reflect, feel, reminisce, reevaluate, and consider what could possibly be next.

My youngest child had just become an adult. It was all done. The children were fully “cooked.”

My husband’s career was blooming as he inched closer to retirement—but I had no idea who or what I was supposed to be or do now. The wise words of Stevie Nicks reverberated through me: “I climbed a mountain and I turned around.”

Eight days later, I drove through the sanctuary gates of Leisure World and stepped into my short-term rental. I was alone. This was an entirely new dimension: alone. Who would I care for, if not anyone else? How much housework, cooking, and laundry could possibly be created by just me? I was terrified by the unknown— and exhilarated in a way I had never known.

“Just be here now. Just be,” my internal compass reminded me.

A week or so later, I pulled through the gates again

after a grocery run. The attendant smiled warmly and asked, “Are you going to make it to bingo tonight?”

The confused look on my face must’ve said it all. He added, “Did you get this month’s newspaper?”

“Nope,” I replied—unaware there even was a neighborhood newspaper, let alone a whole world of activities and life-affirming dimensions surrounding my rental home.

My new security-booth friend handed me a map and a newspaper. An actual, hold-it-in-my-hands, turn-thepages, smell-the-ink real newspaper! It reminded me of my childhood. I began to venture out. To explore. To peek into this world “behind the walls” of Leisure World.

For quite some time, I’d been feeling a growing cognitive dissonance as I watched the analog world of my youth dissolve. As a Gen-Xer, I was homesick for the books I held in two hands, pencils that smelled like wood and rubber, and paper that didn’t require a charger. I had observed how wild, unpredictable human conversation was becoming a lost art. Life felt like it was speeding up—and my mind and body couldn’t keep pace.

The shifts were coming faster and more pronounced. And yet, I also embraced the digital age. I had one foot in each world—marveling at the beauty, progress, and promise in both. After all, it was the click-click-click of my smartphone that had led me here to Leisure World. It wasn’t about choosing which world was better. My task was learning to blend the best of both—to curate a life that honored my analog past and my digital present. One thing led to another, and I began to dabble in Leisure World’s many activities. More importantly, I began to understand what might be next for me and

my spouse: time to laugh, connect, enjoy, learn, and mingle.

I absorbed, almost through osmosis, a Leisure World philosophy: stay as strong and fit as my aging body permits, nurture mental health, expand my horizons and social circles, and share kindness with those I meet. Aging gracefully was being demonstrated all around me.

These desert lands seemed to whisper of the analog past while holding the present and offering faith in the future. The generosity of my new acquaintances here astounded me. People were smiling and waving—why? Simply because I existed, and that was enough. The spirit of “you’re here, so you belong” filled the air.

The long-packed-away Arizona desert girl inside me— who loved sunshine, swimming, and sunsets—was home again.

I’ll continue in the Leisure World tradition of smiling and waving at passersby—on sidewalks, at rec one, and from my golf cart. It’s a gift for both giver and receiver. Being seen and acknowledged in such a simple way provides hope, caring, and community. And I believe we could all use a bit more of that magic—inside the Leisure World gates and beyond.

About the Author:

Jen Torres is a lifelong seeker and desert soul rediscovering herself between two dimensions: the wide-open skies of her hometown in Mesa, Arizona, and the still-full-butshifting nest of her Texas home. Though her Texas house still shelters grown children, she’s entering a new season of life—emotionally untethering, reimagining, and following the nudges of the universe one word at a time. A first-time contributor, she can be reached at jportertorres@ gmail.com

Dulcey Lima

Grandparents Corner

Leisure World’s Activity Discovery Chest Launches for Kids!

by Charlene Ingerson

One of the joys of summer is grandkids coming to visit. And now they can get ready for an exciting adventure in Leisure World!  Introducing the “Leisure World Activity Discovery Chest,” a fun-filled program designed for kids aged 2-12.

This program was made possible with generous donations from our own ReMax Classic Realty Office and from several Leisure World residents. The Activity Discovery Chest contains free activity packets for various age groups. It’s an innovative program that is perfect for parents and grandparents looking to entertain and engage their little ones during summer visits. Here’s how it works:

• First, come to the Recreation/Communication Office to pick up an activity kit voucher for each child. The Rec Department is open Monday - Friday, 8:003:00

• The Communications Team will document the name of the manor owner, manor numbers and the date of pick up. Each child is allowed one voucher per week

• You’ll receive a treasure map/voucher for each kit that will take you and your child on an adventure to the ReMax Classic office located near the tennis courts and the Power Road entrance. ReMax Classic is open Tuesday - Saturday, 9:00 - 4:30.

• Don’t forget to say hello to our wonderful sponsor while you’re there!

• The ReMax Classic staff will then show the child to the Discovery Chest where they will have the chance to choose a premade activity kit.

• Each kit contains a book to keep as well as fun, creative activities to enjoy.

• Each kit also has a colored dot at the top with the suggested age. (See photo)

• As a bonus, a large resource card is also included for the grandparents with important Maricopa County and Leisure World phone numbers on one side and photographs of our sponsors on the other.

This program is a fantastic way to encourage creativity, imagination, and learning while having a blast. The Leisure World Activity Discovery Chest is a unique initiative that brings together community collaborators with enthusiasm to create a memorable experience for kids visiting Leisure World.

We invite all parents and grandparents to join in on the fun and explore the Leisure World Activity Discovery Chest. It’s a great opportunity to spend quality time with your kids, watch them learn and grow, and make unforgettable memories while they visit our community.

For more information or if you would like to donate so we can continue this program throughout the year, please email me (Charlene Ingerson) at ingerson.cb@ gmail.com or text me at 401-473-4212.

Let’s unleash the fun and make some unforgettable memories in Leisure World!

Monsoon Season Anyone?

Arizona’s monsoon season, which begins on June 15th and ends on September 30th, brings much-needed moisture and relief from the summer heat.

What is an Arizona Monsoon?

The term “monsoon” comes from the Arabic “mausim” meaning “season.” Simply put, the monsoon is the time of the year, or the season, when winds shift, bringing an increase in moisture to the Southwest. The resulting storms can range from minor blowing dust to severe thunderstorms.

Often, the more severe storms begin with towering walls of dust hundreds of feet

high that move across the Valley. These dust walls are known as “haboobs,” an Arabic term for the similar walls of dust that are common in the Middle East. With the dust comes high winds, usually followed by heavy rains.

Interesting fact: The wettest monsoon in Phoenix was in 1984, when 9.56 inches of rain fell at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport; the driest was 1924 when only 0.35 of an inch was recorded.

Sourced from visitchandler.com, Author Teresa Bitler

Thank you to the residents who shared their monsoon photos from previous years!

Bob Dinnel

Doug MacLeod

Michelle Pieper

Michelle Pieper

Doug MacLeod

Greetings Leisure World Residents from your Community Owned Real Estate Brokerage, ReMax Classic. We are the only real estate brokerage that contributes directly back to Leisure World Community Association through our real estate sales commissions.

As for this writing ReMax Classic year over year sales show an increase in the sale price of manors rose by 3%. Mortgage interest rates continue to be out of reach for some buyers and have hovered at 6.5% - 7% for some time. The experience and diligent efforts ReMax Classic agents possess is ideal to help you navigate for a successful real estate transaction.

The ReMax Classic office contributes back to Leisure World Community Association through our agents’ commissions. 50% of all real estate sales commissions in Leisure World are contributed directly to LWCA. During the first 4 months of 2025, ReMax Classic completed 41 listing sides and 38 buyer representations for a total of 79 total sides. 2025 sales figures show the promise of a very lucrative year. This is a true testament to the quality of our agents.

We encourage all owners to stop by our office and receive a FREE Manor evaluation to find out your Manor’s value. The market continues to be a slight Seller’s market and knowing the value of your home is vital in making sound decisions.

As your trusted Brokerage, if you are thinking about selling your home, please don’t give away your equity. There are many cash buyers, and their offer may seem terrific but call ReMax Classic to get a second opinion before proceeding.

Warm regards, Mike Ryan

Designated Broker Re/Max Classic 480-832-7451

By Sherry Rindels-Larsen

Oleander, No Longer the Darling of the Desert

Native to the Mediterranean region, Oleanders first appeared in the United States in the mid-1800s. Today, they are found throughout the warmer regions of the United States, and travelers can find them in Asia, Europe, South America, Africa, and Australia. There are hundreds of different varieties and cultivars.

Their adaptability to a wide range of growing conditions has made them a widely used landscape plant. Here in Arizona, their heat and drought tolerance has made them one of the go-to plants for landscapers and homeowners. They offer abundant flowers from early summer to fall (when pruned properly), fragrance, and a wide range of colors in the white to pink to red range. Here in Leisure World, we have thousands of them throughout the community. You will find them used for screening and hedging, as an accent plant and small tree, and in foundation plantings, softening the transition between the ground and the house’s walls. They can also be grown in containers.

Unfortunately, oleanders have found their kryptonite. Over the last 25 years, oleanders have become increasingly impacted by a bacterial disease called Oleander Leaf Scorch (Xylella fastidiosa). The disease was first found in southern California in the 1990s and has spread to other parts of the southern United States, including Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, Florida, and other states. The bacteria plug up the xylem tissues of the plant and don’t allow water and nutrients to move through the plant, causing the plant to die a slow death. Once infected, a plant’s life expectancy is reduced to just a few years.

The disease spreads naturally by an insect called the Glassy-winged Sharpshooter (Homalodisca vitripennis)

Resources:

Oleander Leaf Scorch

and the Smoke Tree Sharpshooter (Homalodisca lacerta) as well as spittle bugs and leafhoppers. The Glassywinged Sharpshooter is the most prevalent vector in AZ. The insect uses a specialized mouthpart, called a stylet, to pierce and access the xylem vessels of plants. The xylem is the water and nutrient-conducting tissues of the plant. The insect carries the bacteria on its mouthparts, and when it lands on a new plant and begins feeding, it introduces the bacteria to the plant. Sharpshooters use the wind to move from plant to plant. Thus, not all plants in a hedge or area may be infected simultaneously. See the resources for pictures of disease symptoms.

There is some debate about whether humans also

https://ipm.ucanr.edu/home-and-landscape/oleander-leaf-scorch/pest-notes/#gsc.tab=0

Oleander Leaf Scorch

https://cales.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/oleanderleafscorch.html

Plant Disease: Oleander Leaf Scorch

https://www.azplantlady.com/2024/07/plant-disease-oleander-leaf-scorch.html

Oleander Occurrence

https://dbg.org/july-ecoquest-oleander/#:~:text=It%20is%20also%20toxic%20to,benefit%20pollinators%2C%20 ecosystems%20and%20people.

The Allure and Overuse of Oleanders

https://www.azplantlady.com/tag/alternative-shrub-to-oleander#:~:text=The%20Allure%20and%20Overuse%20 of,impactful%20and%20frankly%2C%20almost%20forgettable. Oleander

https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/oleander.html

Glassy-winged Sharpshooter

https://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn7492.html?src=302-www&fr=4480 Leafhoppers

https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/leafhoppers

Life’s Inspiration

spread leaf scorch through pruning. This might be more of a chicken-and-egg discussion. Pruning encourages abundant new soft growth, which is easier for the insects to feed on. It is also widely accepted that pruning tools can spread diseases from plant to plant through pruning wounds. This is why it is critical to sanitize tools between plants.

Regardless of how the disease gets into the plant, there is currently no effective treatment. Leafhoppers and sharpshooters are so abundant that insecticides won’t be effective. Pruning the diseased portion of the plant well below the affected portion will buy a bit of time, but the plant is still infected and will eventually succumb to this initial infection or be infected by another insect. Currently, no recommended varieties are truly resistant to the bacteria. Plant removal is the recommended control.

If you have reviewed Leisure World’s new approved plant list, you may have noticed that Oleander (Nerium oleander) is no longer on the list. You may also be aware of the efforts in certain districts to remove the oleanders. While not wanted, this effort is needed to remove infected plants and minimize the spread of the disease.

What happens next? This is yet another opportunity to learn why plant diversity is so important. When we plant too many of one species, the likelihood that they will all be infected by a disease or infested by an insect increases. As we are replacing the oleander within Leisure World, I strongly encourage planting a variety of desert-adapted plants and selecting those that mature at the desired size to minimize maintenance and pruning.

Sherry Rindels-Larsen is President of the Sonoran Desert Garden Club and a Maricopa County Extension Master Gardener

(Many years ago, these words were given to me, as a gift to inspire.)

God made a World out of His dreams-Of magic mountains, oceans, and streams. Prairies and plains and wooded land, Then HE paused and thought. “I need people to stand” on top of the mountains, to conquer the seas, explore the plains, and climb the trees.

People who start out small and grow strong like a tree, and so He created all of us, full of love and fun, to explore and conquer, climb and run. With courageous hearts and precious minds, to work together as one of a kind. Then, when God had completed the task he’d begin, He surely said

“That’s a job well done!”

H. McClellan 1685

Paulius Dragunas

How to Keep Your Dog Happy During Fireworks

https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/behaviourand-training/dogs-and-fireworks

It’s never a good idea to take your dog to a fireworks display, and indoor fireworks aren’t dog-friendly either. Even if they don’t whimper at the noise, it doesn’t mean they are happy. Panting and yawning are both signs that indicate your dog is stressed.

Follow the following advice to help keep your dog calm during fireworks.

Early walks

It’s a good idea to time walks earlier in the day before the fireworks start. Keep your dog on-lead if you think fireworks will be let off.

Don’t tie your dog up outside while fireworks are being let off, eg outside a shop while you pop inside, or leave them in the garden or alone in the car.

Keep them indoors

Always keep your dog indoors when fireworks are being let off.

The following also helps:

closing the curtains to black out any flashing lights from outside dogs are likely to drink more when they are worried, so fill their water bowl up to the brim

Background noise

Switching the TV or radio on at a slightly increased volume might help to muffle the sound, but make sure it’s not too loud and do not try this if your dog is not used to noises from the television.

Microchipping

Make sure your dog is microchipped and your information is up to date so your dog can be returned to you if they are spooked by fireworks and run off. By law your dog should be wearing an ID tag with the owner’s name and address displayed when they are in a public place. If your phone number is easily readable you will have a better chance of being reunited quickly.

Help with calming your dog

Speak to your vet about calming products, like Adaptil, which contain ‘dog appeasing pheromone’ – these may help promote a feeling of calm for your dog.

What to do if your dog is stressed by fireworks

Dogs show they are stressed or anxious in lots of ways, including:

• panting excessively

• drooling

• shaking

• yawning

• putting their tail between their legs

Although it’s difficult to stay calm when your pet is stressed, try not to let your dog know you are worried as it may make the problem worse. Stay calm and act normally. It’s OK to cuddle and stroke your pet if it helps them relax, but if they prefer to hide under your

bed, then let them do this instead.

You can also help your dog by:

letting them pace around, whine and hide in a corner if they want to. Once they have found a safe space, try not to disturb them.

allowing them to hide in a den where they can feel safe and comfortable when loud noises are all around. This could be under your bed or behind the sofa. Placing some of your clothes in the den which may help to keep your pet calm.

It goes without saying that you should never shout at your pet. If you have to leave your house during firework season and come home to find your dog has been destructive or toileted, don’t get angry with them. This won’t help and will also make your dog more stressed.

By Kaye West Mastering Timing

Just How Does One Learn to Dance?

The first goal in learning to dance is mastering the basic rhythm of the dance, which means understanding concepts about musical timing plus the typical pattern or the dance rhythm. Some people have had the advantage of experiences in their youth which allowed them to acquire such information. Others have not. Besides dance instruction in any of its forms (ballet, tap, square dancing, modern dance, etc.), such experience includes musical training from playing a musical instrument, reading choral music, or even marching in cadence. While such individuals have an advantage in learning in a dance class, others can acquire such experience or get a refresher after years of non-use with information available 24/7 on the internet.

The concepts of musical timing, fortunately, are not difficult and can be learned. First the ideas must get into one’s brain to create the first “neural pathway,” and then the information must be repeated and rehearsed literally thousands of times in order to become habitual. Some folks contend that dance information may be in their head, but it hasn’t migrated to their feet. That is simply a statement that there have been insufficient repetitions for the information to become part of their “muscle memory,” otherwise known as their long-term memory.

The problem is not that they cannot learn to dance (everyone can), but rather they simply need more repetitions of the information.

In junior high I encountered a dance sequence which the other kids were doing and which I wanted to learn. There were only six counts, but the weight changes and timing were different from the step-tap, step-tap (the “chicken”) we were doing in other situations. There was action on each half count (thus twelve parts), and the pattern of taking weight changes was irregular (sometimes on the count and sometimes midway into the count)! I remember practicing that sequence literally thousands of times! Eventually I could do it, but I had to work at it. Fortunately, most dance patterns and rhythms are not that complicated! Social Foxtrot and Single Swing, for example, each have four weight changes which occur regularly on counts 1, 3, 5, 6 (taking two counts for each slow and one count for each quick).

Consult https://home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/ articles/timing.pdf for a tutorial on the ideas one should understand about timing. Additionally, find a tutorial for the Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick (SSQQ) pattern of Social Foxtrot and Single Swing at https:// home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/lessons/ssqq-tutorial. pdf. This document describes a step-by-step sequence of what to practice to master the timing pattern needed for dancing eighty-five percent of music in a social dance situation. Because this information is readily available in writing (my dance students requested that I put information they were learning in writing so they could review it outside of class), literally anyone in the whole wide world can master this information if they choose to and if they apply themselves.

Comparing Ballroom, Line Dancing, and Round Dancing Classes

Ballroom / Social Dance

Dance studios are one place where patrons can find a group dance class (typically $10 per person for a 30-45-minute lesson). Attending such classes are folks from beginners to advanced. Because of the large range of experience, instructors typically create a sequence of instruction which they present and provide practice for students to replicate. Often students rotate partnerships, so everyone has a chance to dance with other attendees. That can be helpful so that more experienced dancers can support those with less experience and helps dancers to get acquainted with their classmates.

While the instructors (generally a couple) are excellent models of how to dance, they often do not provide names for the figures they are doing, or if they do use names, they may not be standardized. What they present is limited by their own background of experience, which may include styling and patterns from either the American or the International style.

Also because of the wide range of abilities in such a class, instructors present patterns which include nonstandard elements. Sometimes students’ video the instructors doing the patterns so they have a way to retain the information so they can practice later on their own.

Following the group lesson, the floor is open for social dancing so students can practice what they learned in class when music is played matching the rhythm which was taught. In ballroom and social dance situations it is courteous for Leads to dance with attendees beyond their “regular partner.”

Sequential social dance lessons for five rhythms are also available at https://home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/ wi-do.html

Line Dance

Line dance classes have become popular in recent years. Some of the well-known line dances have even been added to the syllabi for some ballroom dance associations! Classes can be found as a 30-minute lesson prior to a social dance ($10 for the evening of dancing) or as a recurring one- to two-hour class ($0-$15). New dances are introduced and practiced, and, when taught by one teacher consistently, subsequent sessions include previously-taught routines for practice.

As a rule, dancers are expected to memorize the routines which are described by the number of “counts.” Typical dances are 32 counts (or 8 measures) in length, but there are both shorter and longer ones. The sequence typically ends by turning one-quarter so the same sequence can be danced facing the new direction, and it is repeated until the piece ends.

The various routines are set to specific pieces of music, and choreographers describe the steps in writing on “Stepsheets” which are available in a searchable database at https://www.copperknob.co.uk/. The website (boasting over 161,000 routines) also contains videos of folks performing or teaching the routine so dancers can practice them and (eventually) memorize them.

Since everyone does the same routine, usually in lines, attendees can imitate others during the dance as needed. Sometimes, especially when learning a new routine, the instructor cues the dancers as to what to do next, but the vocabulary for line dancing is not standardized and various choreographers use terms which make sense to them. Terms are sometimes “step-cued” (meaning they describe what one foot at a time does), and other terms (according to an article on the above website) are borrowed from the ballroom vocabulary, but their meanings do not necessarily match what is understood in the ballroom world.

For example, their “chassé” is a sequence of steps going to the side only. The term is borrowed originally from ballet and chassés (three counts) can be forward or back (with the second step being a lock) in addition to the side. They also treat the terms “cha cha,” “triple,” “shuffle step,” and “polka step” as approximately synonymous, with the difference being a slight change in timing (they each have three steps in two counts with the first two terms taking weight at counts ½, ½, 1 and the latter two using ¾, ¼, 1).

Round Dance

While round dancing began as simple folk dances

performed in a circle and catalogued and replicated nationally by pioneers such as Lloyd (Pappy) Shaw, over the years it has evolved into non-competitive partnership dancing known today also as choreographed ballroom or cued ballroom dance. Teachers of this form of dancing (where a leader announces or cues the figure to do in the next measure) collaborate to standardize various figures and phase them in levels of difficulty (to see their list of standardized figures, showing what one can learn in round dancing, go to https://home.csulb. edu/~kwest/wido/rhythms.html, select the desired rhythm, and when on that page select “___ Figures and Sources for How to Dance Them.”

This form of partnership dancing focuses on learning and fun. The only competition is with oneself to learn more or improve dancing pleasure by refining technique. Numerous rhythms incorporate both American and International styles, often interchangeably. New routines are constantly being choreographed to specific pieces of music, and wherever in the world the dance event occurs, cues are in English.

Additionally, the Lead’s (Man’s) and Follow’s (Lady’s) parts are both taught, so solo dancers can learn their part and dance with a phantom partner, or there can be two people of the same gender who partner each other with no implication of their sexual orientation.

Classes are nominally priced ($7-10 for a two-hour session) and typically focus on one rhythm at a time. Some rhythms begin with phase one and two figures; others begin at phase 3 or 4. New rhythms have been added over the years with twenty of the most common listed on the above website.

Some people learn best visually, some auditorily, some by doing, and some with a combination of those modalities. Round dance teachers use all three as they explain figures, demonstrate how to do them, and provide a great deal of floor time to practice them, often using “hash cuing” which means they cue figures at random so dancers can also practice dancing to cues. The page referenced above with the list of standard figures also has places where written and video material is available, including footprints for basic figures.

And, Larry Caves (retired ASU ballroom dance director) and I are collaborating to share information for those wishing to refine their dancing (we have started with Cha Cha and have several other articles uploaded on improving dancing).

Round dancing also has written instructions (cue sheets) for over 30,000 routines which have been shared by creative choreographers. The routines correspond to the music and typically there are several different parts (our Cha Cha, for example, has three different parts with eight measures each). Find these at https://roundalab.org/ > Cue Sheets > Index of Rounds. Also at that place is a database showing how folks can find a class/round dance instructor or a dance event.

In short, round dancing provides sequential instruction with lots of floor time and much variety in a friendly, fun setting. It is highly recommended for your lifelong learning which provides exercise and socializing with friendly people in an inexpensive environment. The fall schedule will be available at https://gphurd.com/ > Mesa Brochure.

Ready to Get Started?

Resources are plentiful and readily available. Those with some dance experience who are also itching to get away for an incredible adventure can even experience the International Choreographed Ballroom Dance Association Convention starting July 9 in Springdale, Arkansas (one hall is dedicated to newer dancers). Sign up at https://www.icbda.com/2025Convention/ Flyer.pdf

Meanwhile, convince a friend to take lessons with you and/or identify several friends who would like a class and persuade a round dance teacher to form a class for your group or ask a round dancer to share some figures with you at a social dance! That’s how I got started years ago!

Remember the formula for success in any endeavor: Success = Beginning + Perseverance

SRP Summer / Fall 2025 Shade Tree Workshops

Please carefully read all the information below before registering.

By completing a workshop, you will qualify to receive up to two new tree saplings for free through the SRP Shade Tree Program.

6 types of desert-adapted trees offered. Only 1 registration is required per household. If you own multiple SRP Electric properties, please register each address separately, which will require a different email address.

Participants of our Summer/Fall 2025 workshops will pick-up their tree(s) at one of several drive-thru Tree Distribution Events. These events will be held in the Fall at various locations; more information will be provided in the Workshops.

The workshop covers how to select, plant, and care for your trees. The workshop consists of a PowerPoint presentation and will last approximately 75 minutes. You will choose 1 of 3 workshops offered. An email is required to register and attend the workshops. If you do not have access to an email, please contact Trees Matter at (602) 325-1254 with a detailed message.

Trees Matter will verify all information given by registrant with SRP for accuracy and eligibility. Trees Matter will contact you if there is any issue with your registration. You will receive a confirmation email immediately after registering. The week of the workshop you will receive an email from the Shade Tree Communications team with more details of how to attend. If you are registered for a virtual workshop,

Zoom will send you reminder emails 24 hours, and one hour, before the start of the workshop. If you do not receive these expected emails, please first double check spam/junk folders, as a service is used to deliver them. If you have not received the expected emails, then

please reach out to us at ShadeTree@ TreesMatter.org.

Please stay through the entirety of the workshop as very important information is provided at the end about picking up your trees. Within one week of completing the workshop, we will send all verified attendees a follow-up email. This email will include a link to the Tree Pick-Up registration form, where you will be able to select both your tree choices and your pickup date/location preference for Fall 2025. You will not be able to sign up for the pickup events until your workshop attendance is confirmed by Trees Matter.

If any residents are interested in donating trees to the Landscape Department, we would be very grateful. All donated trees will be planted throughout the common areas in our community.

For those who wish to contribute or have questions about coordinating a tree donation, please email us at Landscape@ lwca.com or stop by our office. As we’ve done in the past, donated trees are typically staged at our Via Norte yard upon delivery. We already have designated locations within the common areas where we plan to plant donated trees, so your contribution will be put to good use.

If anyone has questions or needs more information, they are welcome to email us or stop by our office for further assistance.

July Upcoming Movies & Classics

Upcoming movies you can catch outside the walls at theaters like Harkins, AMC, Regal, Majestic etc.

By: Barb E. Dawl

July 2: Jurassic World Rebirth (PG13)

Five years after the events of Jurassic World Dominion, the planet’s ecology has proven largely inhospitable to dinosaurs. Those remaining exist in isolated equatorial environments with climates resembling the one in which they once thrived. The three most colossal creatures across land, sea and air within that tropical biosphere hold, in their DNA, the key to a drug that will bring miraculous life-saving benefits to humankind.

July 11: Superman (PG13)

Follows the titular superhero as he reconciles his heritage with his human upbringing. He is the embodiment of truth, justice and the American way in a world that views this as old-fashioned.

July 18: Eddington (NR)

In May of 2020, a standoff between a smalltown sheriff (Joaquin Phoenix) and mayor (Pedro Pascal) sparks a powder keg as neighbor is pitted against neighbor in Eddington, New Mexico.

July 25: The Fantastic Four: First Steps (PG13)

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”.

Harkins Tuesday Night Classics:

July 8: School of Rock

July 15: Miss Congeniality

July 22: The Iron Giant

July 29: Jumanji

Maricopa County Library, Queen Creek Library Offers a Broad Range of Programs.

The Queen Creek Library offers FREE programs for people of all ages. Adult programs include social events, crafts, film and book discussions. Some of our upcoming July programs include: Adults Can Color Too (adult craft each week), Senior Social Hour, Game Night, Mystery Book Club, Painted Book Edges, Cinema Club, and a Romance Book Club. We are open Monday thru Thursday from 9-8, and Saturday and Sunday from 9-5. We are happy to assist you with online library resources, culture passes, and much more. To learn more about our programs, you can visit  www.mcldaz. org/queencreek or call 602-652-3000.

The Summer Reading Program began June 1 and continues through August 1! This all ages program encourages everyone to read and log at least 20 minutes a day. Enter secret codes, attend programs, and complete challenges to earn more points! Prizes include a FREE book (or you can donate it), food coupons, state parks passes, and entrance into weekly drawing prizes at the Queen Creek Library. You can sign up online at maricopacountyreads.org or visit your library!

The Queen Creek Library offers free programs for people of all ages. For a complete list of offerings visit www.mcldaz.org/queencreek.

21802 S Ellsworth Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142, Open to the public Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

July Adult Events

Registration may be required. Check online or call for details.

Adults Can Color Too!

Wednesday, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

10:00-11:00 am

Coloring and fun art projects are not just for kids! Join us each week to try a different art style and create your own unique masterpiece. All materials will be provided. This program is for adults 18+.

Game Night

Thursday, July 3

6:00-7:30 pm

Join us at the library for an evening of games! A wide collection of board games and card games will be available for all ages. You are welcome to bring your own, come with friends and family, or come alone and meet new friends!

Senior Social Hour

Monday, July 7

10:00-11:00 am

Join us once a month to play games, relax, enjoy conversations, and meet older adults in your area. Drop in anytime between 10 and 11 to make some friends while having fun! Games will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Book ‘Em: A Mystery Book Club

Wednesday, July 9

12:30-1:30 pm

discuss, “House in the Pines” by Ana Reyes.

Painted Book Edges

Thursday, July 17

6:00-7:00pm

Colored book edges have become increasingly popular within the book world. Help us contribute to this fun trend and learn how to spruce up your favorite books! Book will be provided within the program.

Adult Cinema Club

Monday, July 21

6:00-7:00 pm

Join us for thoughtful discussion focusing on a new film title each month, featuring a diverse medley of cinematic genres, styles, and storytelling approaches that invite exploration and discovery. Find your new favorite! Check online for this month’s movie.

Tuesday, July 22

6:30-7:30 pm

Read it and Weep: A Romance Book Club

Are you ready to fall in love? Join this romance book club where we discuss a new romance read each month! This month’s book is “Grace Under Fire” by Julie Garwood!

Do you love a good whodunit? Do you love the twists and turns of a good mystery? Join us to discuss a monthly mystery read! For this discussion we will

Town of Gilbert 4th of July Celebration

Ranger Led Fishing Clinic

July 9, 2025, McQueen Park 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM

Join a Ranger for a handson Fishing Clinic designed for beginners eager to explore the fundamentals of fishing! In this introductory class, participants will learn the essential skills needed to start their fishing journey, including:

-Casting Techniques: Learn how to properly and safely cast a fishing line for accuracy and distance.

-Rig Setup: Get step-by-step guidance on assembling basic fishing rigs, including choosing the right hooks, weights, and bait.

-Local Fish Identification: Discover the common fish species found in our local waters, along with tips for where and how to catch them.

All equipment is provided, and no prior experience is necessary.

DISCLAIMER: A valid Arizona Fishing license is required in order to fish. Full info and registration at: www.gilbertaz.gov

July 4, 2025, 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM Gilbert Regional Park

This free, family-friendly event will take place on Friday, July 4th at Gilbert Regional Park, located at 3005 E Queen Creek Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85298.

Experience live performances, drone show, and a fireworks show! General admission is free for everyone—upgrade to VIP for exclusive perks! More information available at: gilbertaz.gov

City of Mesa

Arizona Celebration of Freedom

*Fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. Entry into the event and activities are FREE.

Join us downtown Mesa for Arizona’s coolest Independence Day event! Food, fun, fantastic patriotic displays/activities, and fireworks.

Full details at: https://azcelebrationoffreedom.com/entertainment/

Photo Credit: Revel Surf Park

Grilling History 101: Who Made it Famous and Why?

If you love grilling, you probably have a man named George Stephen to thank for those burgers, steaks and brats that make weekends at your house so delicious.

The Brazier Grill

During the late 1940s and 1950s, returning servicemen and their families started a migration to the suburbs, and all that outdoor space called for outdoor pastimes, including some experimentation with open-air cooking.

The forerunner of the modern grill was a shallow sheet-metal pan sitting atop spindly legs and, in the case of deluxe models, a set of small wheels. It was called a brazier grill and was effective at heating charcoal, but didn’t provide much control over the cooking process.

Brazier grills were open to the elements and had no vents, which often made grilling a dicey proposition. Standing around one in a stiff breeze was a bit like being in an ash storm, with the added thrill of an occasional red-hot ember flying your way. They were an entertaining and inexpensive novelty, but food cooked with them often ended up incinerated on the outside and raw on the inside. For someone who wanted a serious outdoor cooker that could grill a consistently superior product, brazier grills weren’t the answer.

Weber to the Rescue

Fast-forward a few years to Mount Prospect, Ill., in the early 1950s where George Stephen, Sr., a worker at the Weber Bros. Metal Spinning Company, had a historic aha! moment. Stephens, a dedicated backyard cook himself, envisioned a more efficient and all-around better grill using the design of the harbor buoys Weber was producing at the time. His original idea was to cut a metal buoy in half, install vents, add a grate to the bottom section and top it off using the second half of the buoy as a lid. By implementing these changes, he created a covered vessel that would provide more control over the cooking process and produce a superior grilled product [source: Weber-Stephen Products].

The release of the first Weber kettle grill in 1952 started a revolution in outdoor cooking, and the unmistakable silhouette of this backyard favorite has become synonymous with charcoal grilling [source: Food Network].

Grilling Enhancements

Since the production of the innovative Weber grill, open-air cooking technology has made some notable strides. The introduction of gas-powered grills made it possible to cook meat fast and at reliably stable temperatures, while high-powered, heavyduty models have extended the grilling season to virtually year-round.

For those who like the taste of grilled food but don’t really care for the alfresco approach, the 1994 introduction of the George Foreman grill, an electric grilling station, made it easy to enjoy the advantages of grilling from the relative comfort of the indoors. Capitalizing on this trend toward grilling and away from frying and broiling, newer range setups often have the option of added onboard grilling stations as well, an indication of how indispensable this cooking method has become [source: George Foreman].

Grilling can make meat, poultry, fish, veggies and even fruit taste devilishly good, so the next time you see grill marks on your food, take a moment to say a silent thank you to George Stephen, the man who introduced quality grilling to the ‘burbs.

CULINARY CORNER

Welcome to Culinary Corner!!

Many of the attendees at the Long-Range Planning Committee’s Community Forums in February expressed a desire to have more dining options in Leisure World.

The LRPC will be kicking off the summer with the BunnyBee Ice Cream Truck. BunnyBee will be scooping up sweet treats for our residents and their guests, in the Rec 1 parking lot, beginning in July. The times will be Thursdays from 3:00 to 6:00 and Saturdays from 12:00 to 3:00.

BunnyBee is a family business, created in 2022 by MandaLeigh and Jeff Laszczych and now serves over 50 flavors of premium ice cream and sorbet at a reasonable price.

Among longstanding favorites like Classic Vanilla, Chocolate Ganache and Mint Chip, they have created specialties like Triple Berry Sorbet, Chai Latte, Passion Fruit Margarita Sorbet, Snickerdoodle, Cookie Monster, Coffee Chip, Apple Pie ala Mode, Strawberry Dole Sorbet and more. In addition to freshly scooped cups and cones, their menu features handmade ice cream sandwiches, a variety of soda floats, and customizable sundaes.

BunnyBee Ice Cream has become a staple at major events around the Valley (Rockabilly Bash, Taste of Cave Creek, Fountain Hills Festival of Fine Arts, Phoenix St. Patrick’s Day Festival, to name a few) and are regularly booked for school events, birthday parties, retirement and graduation parties, as well as weddings and corporate events.

The BunnyBee truck will be parked in the Rec 1 parking lot every Thursday from 3:00 – 6:00 and every Saturday from 12:00 – 3:00 in July. Bring the whole family! Either the Lakeside room or the Anniversary room will be available for you to enjoy your treats in

What is Grub-N-Groove?

a cool atmosphere.

Keep an eye out for future delicious dining options in the Culinary Corner!

It’s a place to make new friends and LW family.

*Bring your Favorite dish to participate in Potluck or bring Snacks to eat at table

• *Free Raffles for Fun Gifts

• *Chance to win $$ with 50/50 Drawing(tickets $1 or 6 for $5)

Come & listen to your favorite tunes or dance the night away with DJ Steve.

Tickets $6 with the Rec. Dept. or $8 at the door. Next event is Saturday, July 19th, 4:30pm8:30pm.

Join Us! New Club Just Formed: Chef LaMott Club

If you’re interested in having fun with food, consider joining us for the 2nd meeting of the Chef LaMott Club on Friday, August 1, 9 AM in the theater. At this meeting, we will discuss ideas about what the club members would like to make or learn about in the classes in the coming months.

Classes will be held on the second Friday of each month in the banquet room kitchen at Rec 1. Seating will be limited, so mark your calendars now and plan to attend. First class, August 8, 9am, Banquet Kitchen

By Doris LaMott Hoel, Chef LaMott

The holiday season is several months away BUT it is not too soon to start thinking bout Thanksgiving! Here are several ways you can help with our next Holiday Traditions dinner.

-Do you know of anyone who has difficulty getting out and would like to have a meal delivered? At Easter, we delivered 31 meals to our friends and neighbors and we plan to do that or more this Thanksgiving.

-Let us know if you are interested in volunteering

There will be a $20 a year membership fee, and a nominal cost to cover expenses for each class, as needed. For your convenience, you can drop off your $20 at my Manor 875 in the lock box at my front door. Cash or check made out to Doris Hoel or Venmo cheflamott.

My plan is to have volunteers helping in each class to make assorted dishes. We will make enough so that there will be some for us to try and some to dish up and deliver to the homebound in Leisure World.

I have been compiling a list of homebound that we delivered Holiday Traditions meals to, but we’d like to add to that list. If you know residents that are homebound and would enjoy a food treat at least once

Holiday Traditions

for the Thanksgiving meal (Thursday, November 27th).

-Be thinking of younger residents who might like to volunteer to serve or wash dishes? These are our hardest jobs.

Respond to these requests by contacting my amazing Chairman, Lynette at lynwalt52@gmail. com or by texting 308-520-1425.

Reservations (in tables of 8) will be made through Lynette, as well, and will be open from October 1st through the 31st or until we are sold out. I have made a Shutterfly book for our Holiday Traditions dinners. Here are the links if you would like to see them. If the links don’t work

a month, please contact me at ChefLaMott@gmail. com and give me their names and contact information.

Another One of my favorite Bible verses is Hebrews 13:16.

“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have for such sacrifices are pleasing to God”. These are words I try to live by.

I’ve been very blessed during my career as a professional Chef, and I love sharing my love for food with the community I love. If you’re interested in joining the Chef LaMott Club, call or text me, Doris Hoel, on my cell phone: 651-247-6785.

for you, copy and paste them into your browser.

Easter –

https://www.shutterfly.com/shareproduct/?shareid=a13a471a-ac67-4f05-ba8d938ce7a30e6a&cid=SHARPRDWEBMPRL NK

s Thanksgiving –

https://www.shutterfly.com/shareproduct/?shareid=945b5e61-70c0-4cbc861e-659901e177f4&cid=SHARPRDWEB MPRLNK

Fire Blanket Use: A Complete Guide

https://www.fireprotectiononline.co.uk/info/3-waysto-use-a-fire-blanket/

Most homes and businesses will have a fire extinguisher to hand to put out fires. While these are useful, sometimes you need to smother a fire and starve it of oxygen to prevent it from spreading. This is why you ought to consider having a fire blanket for your home or business as they’re easier to use and cause a lot less mess.

How Do Fire Blankets Work?

Fire blankets are nothing more than blankets made from fire-resistant or fire-retardant materials. When used correctly, they smother the flames of a small fire, cutting off the oxygen supply and preventing the fire from spreading. Fire blankets can also be used to protect individuals from flames, either by wrapping them around a person whose clothes are on fire or as a shield when escaping a burning area. They’re a cleaner alternative to fire extinguishers and are especially useful for grease fires, clothing fires, and electrical fires.

When To Use A Fire Blanket

Listed below are examples of the types of fires that a fire blanket is appropriate for:

• Kitchen Fires: Particularly grease or oil fires, which can become more dangerous if water is used to extinguish them.

• Clothing Fires: Wrapping a person in a fire blanket can smother flames on their clothing.

• Small Electrical Fires: Fire blankets are effective in extinguishing fires involving electrical equipment.

Emergency Escape: Wrapping yourself or someone else in a fire blanket can provide protection when moving through a fire-affected area.

How To Use A Fire Blanket Safely

It is important to know how to use fire blankets safely. The most important thing is to consider the likely size of fires. A smaller blanket is best suited for kitchens or smaller office environments where you are unlikely to

get larger fires, while a larger blanket is better suited to more industrial environments where you are likely to need to smother a larger fire quickly.

The following fire blanket information explains the simplest (and often most effective) methods of dealing with small fires. There are several steps to make sure you use your fire blanket in the right way:

Turn off the gas or electricity supply immediately. (If you are unable to switch off the gas or electricity supply, then leave the room, close the door, and phone the fire brigade.)

• Remove the blanket from its container by pulling the fabric straps.

• While holding the straps, wrap the top edge of the blanket around your hands so that they are protected when placing the blanket over a fire.

• Roll your sleeves up so they are not caught by the flames.

• Stretch the blanket out so that it is large enough to cover the whole flame. Remember to cover the entire area of the fire in order to extinguish all the flames.

• If the fire is bigger than the blanket, DO NOT try to put it out.

Once the fire has been extinguished, do not touch it or anything underneath the blanket for at least an hour as it will still be hot and could damage your hands.

Using a Fire Blanket for Kitchen Fires

Fire blankets are a useful method of dealing with kitchen fires like deep fat fryers. The first thing you must do (if possible) is to turn off the heat source, then stretch the blanket out so that it is large enough to cover the whole flame. Place the fire blanket over the burning pan to smother the flames, leaving it in place for at least a half hour to make sure that the fire is out. If you were unable to switch off the heat source before you started then switch it off as soon as you can safely do so. Then leave the room, close the door and make a telephone call to the fire brigade.

Using a Fire Blanket for Clothing Fires

Fire blankets are also useful if a person’s clothes catch fire. Surround them in the blanket (making sure to keep your hands safely wrapped in the blanket) and encourage the person to roll on the floor until the flames have been extinguished.

Using a Fire Blanket as an Emergency Escape Tool

Another great use for a fire blanket is to act as protection if you need to walk through a burning room. Wrap yourself, or your baby, child or someone else safely in the fire blanket as you pass through the fire affected area.

How NOT To Use A Fire Blanket

If the fire is bigger than the blanket then leave well alone. It will not be able to smother the flames. Switch off the heat source if possible then leave the room closing the door and call the fire brigade as soon as possible.

Never try to throw the blanket over a burning pan – you’re sure to miss and won’t be able to retrieve the blanket for another try.

Always be sure to shield yourself from the flames as you approach the fire, paying special attention to your hands as you carefully place the blanket over the fire.

Types Of Fire Blankets

There are several types of fire blankets suited for different environments:

• Economy: A standard 1m x 1m fire blanket in a flexible polythene pack.

• Kitchen: These fire blankets are specially designed for small kitchen fires, and are stored in slimline plastic containers.

• Standard: Measuring 1m x 1m or 1.2m x 1.2m, these are suitable for home kitchens, caravans, and boats.

• Large: Measuring 1.8m x 1.2m or 1.8m x 1.75m, these are the largest size fire blankets you can get, and are best suited for commercial kitchens, workshops and anywhere where you store flammable liquids.

ART CHAPTER

The Artistic Journey of Helen Price

By Linda Weinstock

Helen Price’s life has been a canvas of creativity, shaped by her experiences and surroundings. Born and raised in Chicago, she developed a love for art and nature, often visiting the Art Institute of Chicago and exploring the city’s scenic spots.

After retiring from the Village of Bloomingdale, Helen’s artistic pursuits gained momentum. She started taking watercolor classes at 60 and discovered a passion for Zentangle, which she describes as “meditation masquerading as an art form.” Her artistic journey has been marked by experimentation with various mediums, including pen & ink, charcoal, and mosaics.

As a member of the Leisure World Art Club, Helen continues to learn and grow as an artist. She finds inspiration in nature and travel, often capturing the beauty of the desert landscape in her work. The brief flowering periods of certain plants have become a particular fascination, and she enjoys conveying their fleeting beauty through art.

Helen’s artistic style is still evolving, and she considers herself a “perpetual art student.” She takes pride in her willingness to learn and try new things, from needle felting to exploring the possibilities of alcohol inks and pottery. Her artwork has been recognized with

awards, and she is thrilled when judges acknowledge her creative efforts.

Through her art, Helen shares her unique perspective on the world. Her experiences as a Midwestern transplant to the desert landscape have influenced her work, and she finds joy in capturing the beauty of both environments. As she continues to explore various art forms, Helen’s story serves as a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of lifelong learning.

With a heart full of curiosity and a mind full of wonder, Helen Price’s artistic journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to discover new passions and talents. Her artwork is a reflection of her love for life, nature, and the creative process.

A Brief History of the Internal Revenue Service TAX CORNER

By Ken Weinstock CPA, Leisure World resident

Many people think of the IRS as a monolithic government organization headquartered in Washington, DC.But it’s really made up of many regular people working at civil service jobs, like the people who work at post offices, airports, and national parks. The IRS has employees all over the country; some even work from home. But it wasn’t always like that. Let’s begin with a little history.

Humble Beginnings

Way back in 1789, less than two years after the Constitution of the United States was written, and just about six months after it became effective, The Department of the Treasury opened its doors with Alexander Hamilton as the first Secretary of the Treasury. In addition to managing the finances of the new United States of America, its responsibilities included that of tax collector. Back then there were no income taxes. Most federal taxes were in the form of tariffs, which are taxes on imports and exports. This system worked fairly well for the most part. But there were disagreements. Some people preferred high tariffs and some people preferred low tariffs depending upon whether they were running industrial businesses or were involved in agriculture, and whether they were importers or exporters.

We Need More Money

Expenses incurred during the American Civil War needed to be paid and the tax system at the time was just not bringing in enough money. The Revenue Acts of 1861 and 1862 instituted an income tax for the first time. The Commissioner of Internal Revenue was created at that time as part of the Treasury Department. Money was collected to fund the war effort, but after about ten years, the original law that created the income tax expired. So Congress came up with some new income tax laws. Unfortunately, after a while

the Supreme Court decided that income taxes were unconstitutional unless the taxes were apportioned to the various states. This put a damper on the federal government collecting income taxes for its own use.

The Sixteenth Amendment to The Rescue

The Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution was passed by Congress in 1909. It states: The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States, and without regard to any census or enumeration. Four years later, in 1913, enough states had ratified the amendment so that the era of modern income taxes was finally here with the establishment of the Bureau of Internal Revenue. Just in time to fund the Great War. Now everyone was happy. Well, maybe not everyone…

Fast Forward to 1953

Whether or not you “Liked Ike,” in 1953 the Bureau of Internal Revenue was reorganized and renamed the Internal Revenue Service. Tax collectors who had been political appointees were replaced by civil servants. Instead of centralized offices located in Washington D.C, district offices were set up throughout the country.

After some ups and downs, the IRS began to focus on customer service. The IRS Mission: Provide America’s taxpayers top-quality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and enforce the law with integrity and fairness to all.

In 2015 Congress enacted the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, which can be found at the IRS website as Publication 1.

The Taxpayer Bill of Rights

The Right to Be Informed

The Right to Quality Service

The Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax

The Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position and Be Heard

The Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum

The Right to Finality

The Right to Privacy

The Right to Confidentiality

The Right to Retain Representation

The Right to a Fair and Just Tax System

Taxpayer Advocate Service

The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization related to the IRS, but not part of it. If you have a tax problem that causes a hardship for you, or if you’re not able to resolve a problem using normal IRS procedures, the TAS offers free taxpayer assistance. You can reach them at www.taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov or by calling 1-877-777-4778. Remember this is only if you can’t resolve your issues with the IRS, or if you would experience a hardship that can’t be resolved through normal IRS channels.

There’s always room for improvement, but the IRS has come a long way from its humble beginnings over 230 years ago. If you would like to know more, the IRS website: www.irs.gov contains a lot of helpful information.

a

By: Rilus M. Dana

A Comprehensive Guide to Changing Your Will

A will is one of the most useful tools in estate planning. It guides your loved ones in distributing your assets after you pass. But simply having a will isn’t enough—it’s crucial to keep it updated. Life changes, financial situations evolve, and family dynamics shift. To ensure your will reflects your current wishes, regular updates are necessary.

Why Update Your Will

Major Life Events

Significant life changes often mean your will needs revising:

Marriage or new partner: Marriage laws affect asset distribution, and naming a new partner as beneficiary requires updating your will.

Divorce: Removing an ex-spouse from your will prevents unintended inheritances.

New family members: Add newborns, adopted children, or stepchildren as beneficiaries.

Death of beneficiaries: Remove deceased beneficiaries and redistribute assets accordingly.

Changes in Assets: Your estate changes over time, so your will must reflect those changes:

New or sold assets: Include new properties or remove sold ones to keep asset lists accurate.

Increase in wealth: Investments, inheritance, or winnings can increase your estate’s value, which should be accounted for.

Business interests: If you start or invest in a business, include instructions for business succession.

Gifts and donations: Specify charitable gifts and conditions.

Debt and insurance changes: Update instructions for debts, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts to align beneficiary designations.

Changes in Relationships: Relationships evolve, which can affect your wishes:

Estrangement or reconciliation: Remove or add family members depending on your current relationships.

Beneficiary circumstances: Changes like marriage or financial independence can influence how you want to distribute assets.

Executor, trustee, or guardian changes: Appoint new individuals if current ones are no longer suitable.

New friendships or partnerships: Include close friends or partners you wish to benefit.

Caregiving responsibilities: Provide for individuals you now care for financially.

Family dynamics: Adjust inheritances based on shifting financial dependence or independence.

Changes in Tax Laws and Regulations

Estate and tax laws vary and may change:

Relocation: Moving to a new state with different estate laws requires updating your will.

Tax thresholds: Changes in estate tax laws may affect your planning strategies.

International laws: If you own property abroad, ensure your will complies with foreign inheritance laws.

How to Update Your Will

Creating a Codicil

A codicil is a legal amendment used for minor changes or additions. To create a codicil:

• Draft a clear statement of the changes you wish to make.

• Reference the exact part of your will you wish to change.

• Sign and witness the codicil per state laws.

• Attach the codicil to your will to ensure that both documents are found together.

Writing a New Will

Writing a new will allows for major changes to be clearly stated and the revocation of the old will, eliminating potential confusion. Writing a new will is easy. You can use our free template at RilusLaw.com or follow these steps:

• Draft a new will and include all your current wishes and provisions.

• Revoke the old will by clearly stating that all previous wills and codicils are revoked.

• Sign and witness following your state’s current legal requirements.

• Destroy all copies of your old will to avoid confusion.

Other Ways

If your original will has a personal property memorandum (PPM), you can update and manage your list of personal belongings without the formalities required for updating a will. You can easily update your PPM for any changes in properties, instructions, distributions, and other revisions.

Some assets, like life insurance policies and retirement accounts, pass directly to named beneficiaries. If you wish to change your beneficiaries to these assets (for example, your 401(k) beneficiary after a divorce), you can update your beneficiary designations without making any changes in your will. Simply contact the financial institution involved to request and complete the beneficiary designation forms.

Update Your Will Mindfully

Updating a will is a crucial aspect of any effective estate plan. Whatever approach you choose to update your will, make sure that you do it regularly and follow approved legal procedures. We recommend always covering your bases by consulting with legal experts for professional advice. Changing your will without a lawyer is possible, but be wise and have your draft checked by a legal expert before you have it signed and witnessed.

- Rilus M. Dana, J.D. is the Managing Partner at Rilus Law, formerly Dana and Associates.

YOUR POCKETBOOK

How to Protect Yourself from Financial Fraud

In 2023, Americans reported they were the victims of more nearly $10 billion in financial fraud1. With fraud increasing in frequency and intricacy, investors must stay vigilant about protecting their financial security. Here are six steps you can take to help protect yourself: Actively avoid scams. The best advice for bypassing fraud involves a series of don’ts. Don’t pick up calls or respond to texts from numbers you don’t recognize. If your bank leaves a message, return the call only after double-checking you have the correct number for your financial institution. Don’t click on links or download documents unless you are certain of the source. Don’t provide account information over the phone, email or social media.

Look for red flags. Typos, grammatical errors and unusual return email addresses are giveaways of phishing emails. Scammers often use a fake address that mimics the address of a trusted source. To “unmask” the sender, hover over the visible address to reveal the real source. Additionally, be wary of investment scams that promise sky-high returns. If your gut is telling you it’s too good to be true – it probably is.

Monitor your accounts. Check account transactions and balances frequently to keep an eye out for suspicious or unauthorized charges. If you do not recognize an expenditure or suspect fraud, contact your financial institution immediately. If available, activate alerts to receive immediate notification of suspicious activity on all bank accounts and credit cards. As an added precaution, request a free credit report annually from the three major credit bureaus. Review your report to spot any changes in your credit rating or unauthorized applications for credit.

Manage your passwords. The security of your accounts is only as good as the privacy of your

passwords. Security experts recommend updating important passwords regularly (every three to six months) or sooner, in case of a data leak. A strong password is long, randomized and unique. Consider using a password manager, which securely stores and completes login fields.

Take advantage of two-step verification. With twofactor authentication (2FA) activated, your user ID and password will prompt a request for your phone number or email. You’ll receive a unique passcode to complete the login process. This extra layer of security makes it much more challenging for bad actors to hack into your secure accounts. If your password is compromised, 2FA creates one more barrier to entry.

Avoid public Wi-Fi. Most public Wi-Fi sources are insufficiently secure. As a result, cyber criminals often hack into public Wi-Fi in search of financial information to exploit, such as passwords, account numbers or personal data. If you must rely on public Wi-Fi, use a virtual public network (VPN) to protect your connection. If you don’t have access to a VPN through an employer, download and subscribe to a reputable network so you can safely access Wi-Fi when away from home.

It is important to remain vigilant. Pay attention to reports of fraud in the news and take note of new ploys to avoid becoming a victim. Know that there are many resources available to protect your financial accounts and security. A financial advisor can help you understand the best measures to put in place to protect your financial information.

###

1 Federal Trade Commission- Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book

Steven M. Rabin, CFP, CRPC, APMA, CDFA, ChFC,

is Managing Director of Academy Advisors Wealth Management

Academy Advisors Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Gilbert, AZ. We specialize in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies. Contact us at, www.academyadvisors.com, 480-5458390, 161 E Rivulon Blvd. Ste. 108 Gilbert, AZ 85297 or 16220 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP certification mark (with plaque design) in the U.S.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC.

© 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

File #6414159.2 (Approved until 03/31/2026)

LIFE TRIBUTES

Dr. William “Kay” Read of Mesa, AZ died on June 4, 2025, at the age of 87. He was born on March 31, 1938, in Deport, Texas, to Ida Lou Lawler and Kenneth Weldon Read.

Kay Read graduated from Paris High School in 1956. He played the saxophone in the High School and Paris, Texas Municipal Bands. He was co-captain of the 1956 District Championship basketball team, earning all-district and allstate honors. After high school graduation he attended North Texas State College in Denton, Texas, where he met his wife, Anita Joy Farnsworth, who was a music major. They were married at San Jacinto Methodist Church in Amarillo, Texas, on September 6, 1958, and they were married for 66-1/2 years. Kay and Joy later moved to Commerce, Texas, where he earned a B.S. Degree in Biology from East Texas State University.

In 1961, he moved his family to College Station, Texas, so that he could attend Texas A&M. It was

there that he received his B.S. in Veterinary Medicine (With Honors), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (With Honors, as well as being 1st in his Class with the highest overall GPA), and PhD in Experimental and Diagnostic Pathology. He was awarded The Borden Scholarship Award in Veterinary Medicine, for achieving the highest GPA in a veterinary curriculum preceding his senior year. He was also awarded a National Institute of Health Grant to pursue his PhD in the study of mechanisms of disease. He retired after 37 years of service with the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University. During this time, he was a full professor, serving as Director of the Hospital Anatomical Pathology Laboratory as well as Head of the Department of Pathobiology. At his retirement in 2002 he was awarded the title of “Professor Emeritus”.

In their spare time, Kay and Joy traveled and taught choreographed ballroom dancing throughout the

PAWS CORNER

By Sam Mazotta

DEAR

United States and in three foreign countries for 25 years. During this time, they competed as ballroom dancers, received numerous awards for their choreographic contributions to the dancing community, including several being voted into the ICBDA Hall of Fame. Kay and Joy also received The Golden Torch Award, the highest award the International Choreographic Ballroom Dancing Association has to offer. Kay was an exceptional marksman and outdoorsman. He loved to hunt, fish, dance, attend local musical plays and concerts, play bridge and read. He also officiated high school and college basketball.

Kay and Joy have been year-round residents of Leisure World in Mesa, Arizona, since 2011. He is survived by his wife Anita “Joy” Read of Mesa, Arizona, daughter, Sherra Kay Read of Mesa, Arizona, son Kendall Lee Read (Kristi) of Elizabeth, Colorado, son Robert Kevin Read (Katie) of Estero, FL, grandsons Kenneth (Leah) and Kaylin Read, granddaughters Theresa Read Taylor (Brian) and Adeline Read, and great-grandson, Kayce Taylor.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorial donations be made to either The American Cancer Society or Cal Farley’s Boy Ranch, Amarillo, TX.

Phantom Pregnancy in Dogs

PAW’S CORNER: I’ll bet you’ve never heard of this one before! My cousin has a female dog who has never been spayed. So she routinely will go into heat. Well, a few months ago, she started behaving funny. She didn’t want to eat, she started pacing the house and then would flop down and not want to go outside, for walks or anything. Even though she wasn’t eating much, she put on weight and her mammaries started to swell. She also started “guarding” her toys and acting aggressive if anyone tried to reach for them. I told my cousin, maybe she’s pregnant, but he insisted that she had never been around a male dog or gone unsupervised outside.

He took her to the vet because he thought she was ill. Would you believe, the vet diagnosed her with a “phantom” pregnancy? She had all the signs of being pregnant but there were no puppies. The vet gave her medication for a few weeks, and eventually she got back to her old self. What do you think about that? -- Terry P. in Albany, New York

DEAR

TERRY: I have heard of this before! In unspayed females, pseudo-pregnancy, or “phantom pregnancy,” can happen after a heat cycle. It’s uncomfortable for the dog and concerning for the owner.

Treatment includes confirming the absence of a pregnancy, followed by medication to reduce anxiety and stop milk production. Hormone therapy is sometimes needed.

The best way to stop phantom pregnancy from happening again is to spay the dog after all symptoms have subsided, and it’s highly recommended. Spaying will help your cousin’s dog be far more comfortable -she won’t go through heat cycles any longer -- and have a healthier, longer lifespan, too.

Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@ pawscorner.com.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Mary Ellen doValle

Well, here it is, our nation’s birthday around the corner this month. Most of us will be grilling hot dog and hamburgers. It is another occasion when we can get together with family and friends. A great period of celebration and goodwill. What a blessing! Leisure World is one of the best places to celebrate any occasion, but the Fourth is really a blast!

As we take this time to celebrate and count our blessings ( may there be as many as the years of our great country!), let us not forget those folks who may not want to celebrate at this time due to personal tragedies or physical challenges. Let us not forget those neighbors who are all alone and have no one to celebrate or share this joyous time with. But even these folks can turn out to give us an opportunity not only to receive the blessing of sharing but the joy of helping those who are usually left out of gatherings.

My column often speaks about caring for ourselves. It is also especially important to reach out and extend that care to others. I have had an opportunity to acknowledge several LW women who want to provide joy and comfort to those neighbors who are grieving or alone. I am offering you the chance to help us help others. Please let us know if you have knowledge of anyone in our community that may enjoy a visit, a meal, or may need something else.

I would like to take the time here to make you aware of a dynamic movement here in Leisure World. It is

the Chef LaMott Club. Doris LaMott Hoel was in the catering business for over 50 years and now has shared her wonderful talent with those residents who are alone or unable to participate in gatherings. She is providing traditional Thanksgiving and Easter dinners for those folks. In addition, for those who are interested, she will be offering seminars in food cooking. These meals will then be offered to those home-bound residents.

Let’s focus on those that are home-bound. Do you know of anyone? Without knowing who falls under this category hinders the organization from helping. They WANT to visit residents, provide company and assistance if necessary. They even have volunteers who will bring pets to comfort, or music to please and soothe.

If you know of anyone who can benefit from the club or would like help, please contact Doris at 651-2476785 or cheflamott@gmail.com.

We are all blessed in one way or another. Let us extend our blessings to our community. May this period of celebration and pride instill in us the blessings of loving our neighbor as ourselves. Blessings to you and yours.

Here, and around the world for all.

With Love and Light H. McClellan (rev.)

HEALTHIER AIR QUALITY

IMPROVE SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

Sealing your ductwork with Aeroseal will improve your indoor air quality, helping to eliminate dust, allergens, and odors coming inside from dirty unconditioned spaces.

IMPROVE HOME COMFORT

LOWER ENERGY BILLS

Leaky ducts lead to decreased system performance. Poor system performance leads to higher energy bills, costly equipment repairs and shortens the life expectancy of your HVAC unit.

Your home should be a haven; you deserve to be comfortable and cozy in your own home with family and friends.

SPEND LESS. SAVE MORE. Did you know you could waste as much as 25% of your homes energy?

RECREATION: July Special Events

July Summer Social Not-So Newlywed Game & Apple Pie a la mode

Do you think you know everything about your life partner (or your closest friend) after all these years? Put your marriage and/or friendship to the test with Leisure World’s Not-so Newlywed Game! Everyone can play with their spouse or partner of choice. Just refresh your memories to hone your recall on things like “Where did you first meet?”, “How long have you been together or if friends, known each other?”, “Who is more high maintenance?”, and “Are they morning or night people?” With 2 rounds of fun and a whole lot of laughs, see if you and your spouse/friend can outscore the rest of the pairs to win a special prize. Sign up fast, only 8 partners can participate. Contestants are free admission with dessert provided.

Enjoy the entertainment from our very own Leisure World residents while enjoying a warm personal apple pie topped with ice cream and choice of toppings.

Date: Thurs., July 17

Time: 2:00 pm

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Room

Cost: $6 per person | Contestants FREE

Deadline for contestants: Mon., July 14

Instant Pot Classes with

Scott Immel

Enjoy an afternoon of easy cooking, as Trivia Host, Scott Immel demonstrates easy recipes to do in an Instant Pot. This class is perfect for those who would like to learn how to use an Instant Pot or would like to learn some tips and tricks. Scott will show one recipe and will allow tastings at the end. Registration required, space limited to 30 participants.

Date: Mon., July 28

Time: 1:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Banquet Room

Cost: Free

2025 Hale Theatre Season

For 20 years, Hale Centre Theatre has been bringing exciting, family-friendly Broadway Musicals, Dramas, and Comedies to downtown Gilbert audiences. With discounted tickets seated on the north side of the stage, you’ll be sure to have a great night, in the round, filled with laughs, music, and high-quality stage productions. Join your friends, neighbors, and family on a local, economical excursion once a month to enjoy theatre right down the road. Drive yourself or carpool with friends as we follow along as a group to Hale Theatre! *Please note that deadlines for shows listed below are 2 weeks before the show, please get your tickets accordingly. On Sale Now at the Recreation Office and Online!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Step into a world of pure imagination with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the beloved musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic tale. Join young Charlie Bucket as he embarks on a magical journey through Willy Wonka’s whimsical chocolate factory. Filled with enchanting music, fantastical sets, and larger-than-life characters, this delightful production promises a sweet treat for the whole family, sparking wonder and joy at every turn.

Date: Wed., July 9

Price: $45

Deadline: Wed., June 25

2025-26 Season Ticket Sales

All the shows are booked for the next terrific season of entertainment in the performing arts series. Now is the time to plan on purchasing your 2025-2026 Season Tickets! In addition to the six shows (two each January, February & March), we have two great “pre-season” shows (one November and one December). A brochure highlighting each act and outlining the season ticket price is available online and in the Recreation Office.

2025 Preseason

Nov. 10, 2025 – Evolution of Music – Rhythm Edition

Dec. 8, 2025 – In The Christmas Mood

2026 Season

Jan. 5, 2026 – Johnny Cash Tribute – Almost Folsom

Jan. 19, 2026 – Ben and Cassandra Magic Show

Feb. 2, 2026 – Beatles Tribute – Britain’s Finest

Feb. 16, 2026 – Bob Seger Tribute – Turn the Page

Mar. 2, 2026 – John Denver Tribute – Take Me Home

Mar. 16, 2026 – Eagles Tribute – Eagle Eyes

This season we will have an open seat, first come process for purchasing, both online and in the Rec Office. Residents can go to LWCA.com website or by calling or coming into the Rec. Office. Select your seat from “2026 Season Ticket 6pk”. During the checkout process you will be asked to acknowledge Yes or No to include the 2025 Preseason 2-show-package; the Recreation Office will contact you later to finalize your Preseason purchase.

On Sale through Sept. 5

Bingo

Bringing the Party!!!

Play is every Friday night at 7:00 p.m. On-sets are 3 for $3; 6 for $6; and 9 for $9.

Refreshments are served at the break. Water, ice, lemonade, coffee, popcorn, and pretzels. Play starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. Players may arrive at 6:00 p.m. to purchase on-sets.

LW Bingo is for Residents and their guests 18 years of age and older. Our bingo games are for recreational play and not open to the public.

The State does not allow alcohol to be present or consumed during our recreational Bingo games.

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Game starts at 7:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom

Trivia Night

Gather with your friends and neighbors to test your knowledge and expand your brain! Trivia will be hosted by our very own, Scott Immel! Three rounds of 15 questions will challenge you and others to see who will top the charts. Test your knowledge with a group of eight or on your own.

Date: Wed., July 9 & 23 | Aug. 13 & 27

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom

Cost: $2 per person

is different every month. BYOB is always encouraged. Mingle with friends, meet new people, and enjoy different varieties of music based on the Resident DJ that month. If you would like to get in the rotation of Resident DJ’s, please contact the Rec. Office!

Date: Fri., July 11 Times: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Club Events:

Purchase tickets through the Recreation Office!

Grub and Groove

Grab your friends and neighbors and let’s keep the good times going! Join host Steve and Cathy Evangelesta as they provide great music and fun surprises. Bring potluck items of your choice to share. Enjoy listening to music and dancing the night away with DJ Steve.

Date: Sat., July 19

Time: 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima

COMMUNITY DANCE PARTIES

Join in the fun, socialize, and dance! Come listen to great music, friendly conversation, and have a groovin’ time! All dances include your mixology stations of soda, water, ice, and cups, all you need to bring is the B in B.Y.O.B. Fresh popped popcorn will also be provided for $1.

Midnight Confessions 4th of July Dinner Dance: Red, White, and Blue Bash

Midnight Confessions will be at Leisure World to get patriotic with us as we celebrate America’s birthday! It wouldn’t be a party without dancing and DINNER! Your ticket will include a lovely buffet with all our American favorites – pulled pork, corn, baked beans, potato salad, watermelon slices, Hawaiian rolls, and dessert. It will be a great night celebrating America the Beautiful, and we can’t wait to see you there! *If you would not like to participate in the dinner portion of the night, please arrive at 7:00 p.m.

Date: Fri., July 4

Time: 6:30 – 10:00 pm

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima

Cost: $15 per person (includes dance, buffet dinner, and soda) *$10 per person without dinner (includes dance and refreshments)

Video DJ Troy Smith

As many of you raved about DJ Troy Smith at last year’s Memorial Day Dance, he is coming back, and is ready to party. Don’t be afraid of a DJ, as he is much more than that. He adds a unique touch to his parties, by putting the original videos of the songs on the big projector alongside the music, to bring all the nostalgia back. This is perfect for those who want to get up and dance, and for those who prefer to sit and watch. It will be a great time, and many residents who attended last year loved him, so give it a shot! *Discounted tickets for this dance only, as it is not a live band.

Date: Thurs., Aug. 7

Time: 7:00 – 10:00 pm

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima

Cost: $6*

July Sunday Movie Matinees

Free Sunday movies in the Theater 4 p.m. Refreshments provided. Due to the popularity of the movies, there will be no seat-saving All seats will be on a first-come basis only. Schedule may change due to Netflix movie availability.

July 6 The Shack

After suffering a family tragedy, Mack Phillips spirals into a deep depression that causes him to question his innermost beliefs. Facing a crisis of faith, he receives a mysterious letter urging him to an abandoned shack in the Oregon wilderness. Despite his doubts, Mack journeys to the shack and encounters an enigmatic trio of strangers led by a woman named Papa. Through this meeting, Mack finds important truths that will transform his understanding of his tragedy and change his life forever.

July 13

Nonnas

After losing his beloved mother, a man risks everything to honor her by opening an Italian restaurant with actual nonnas -- grandmothers, as the chefs.

July 20

Instant Family

When Pete and Ellie decide to start a family, they stumble into the world of foster care adoption. They hope to take in one small child, but when they meet three siblings, including a rebellious 15-year-old girl, they find themselves speeding from zero to

July 27

The Fundamentals of Caring

A writer (Paul Rudd) retires after a personal tragedy and becomes a disabled teen’s caregiver. When the two embark on an impromptu road trip, their ability to cope is tested as they start to understand the importance of hope and friendship.

Classics of the Silver Screen Movie Night:

“White Heat” (1949)

Gang leader Cody Jarrett (James Cagney) lives for his mother, planning heists between horrible headaches. During a train robbery that goes wrong, Cody shoots an investigator. Realizing Cody will never be stopped if he knows he’s being pursued, authorities plant undercover agent Hank (Edmond O’Brien) in Cody’s cell. When his mother dies, a distraught Cody breaks out of jail, bringing Hank along to join his gang. With Hank in communication with the police, Cody plans a payroll heist.

Date: Tues., July 15

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Theater

Safe Casino Trips for Seniors

Exciting Casino Getaways

• Life’s too short to miss having fun!

• Walk along the river, take a water taxi, or see the big racoons!

• Try your luck, you just might hit a Jackpot!

• Must be 21 to gamble

•

three kids overnight. Now, Pete and Ellie must try to learn the ropes of instant parenthood in the hope of becoming a family.

Performing Arts Series Show Announcement: 2025-2026

Nov. 10, 2025 – Evolution of Music – Rhythm Edition

The Evolution of Music Show is a comedy Broadway-esque show that takes you on a journey from the 50’s to music of today, with multiple costume changes, and comedy skits. We will be performing many artists and their music backed by a full band. Andrew’s sister, Elvis, Beach Boys, Aretha Franklin, Neal Diamond, Sony & Cher, Village people, Johnny Cash, Michael Jackson, Bruno Mars and more.

Dec. 8, 2025 – In The Christmas Mood

Get into the spirit of the season with In the Christmas Mood: A Holiday Music Spectacular. The evening is filled with singing, dancing, live music, and holiday magic as the show pays homage to the classic Andy Williams and Bing Crosby Christmas specials. In the Christmas Mood features timeless treasures such as “Sleigh Ride,” “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” and many more.

Four principals (2 male, 2 female) and a six-piece band create the magic in this fast-paced, fun-filled, and family-friendly show. Two hours will fly by, and audiences will leave full of holiday spirit.

Jan. 5, 2026 – Johnny Cash Tribute – Almost Folsom

The music of the man in black is back! Spend a night with Almost Folsom as he provides the greatness of Johnny Cash and the amazing legacy of music he left behind for us all to enjoy. Relive the amazing songs of Johnny Cash in this electrifying tribute to the Man in Black. Hear all of Johnny’s biggest hits, like Folsom Prison Blues, Ring of Fire, Boy Named Sue, Walk the Line, and many more accompanied by a live band.

Jan. 19, 2026 – Ben and Cassandra Magic Show

never seen them before! Britain’s Finest is a band of Beatles tribute all-stars who bring the look, the sound, the cheeky humor and the outright vivacity of the Beatles back to life. With over a decade of sold out shows across the globe, Britain’s Finest has crafted a trip through Rock and Roll history from the cobblestone roads of Liverpool to The Beatles’ place as one of the greatest bands of all time.

Feb. 16, 2026 – Bob Seger Tribute – Turn the Page

TURN THE PAGE is an incredible re-creation of the Live Bob Seger Experience performed by The Sam Morrison Band. Every effort has been made to make sure that each song is performed exactly as you remember it and that it is delivered with all the passion and excitement you would expect in a Bob Seger show.

Mar. 2, 2026 – Eagles Tribute – Eagle Eyes

Come witness the impossible with master magicians Cassandra and Ben Nemzer! New York Times considers them “The Most Magical Couple!” As seen on Netflix, Apple +, Fox Sports, & Comedy Central and the most recent season of Let’s Make a Deal on CBS; These two magicians present a nonstopjourney of wonder, excitement and laughter. Through jaw-dropping magic, audience participation, and even CRAZY card tricks; This duo creates one once in a lifetime moment after another! Cassandra is a classically trained singer and combines her magic with opera in a way that has never been seen before. Ben’s Comedy magic and sleight of hand is some of the best in the world! Together, they present a show you can’t take your eyes off of.

Feb. 2, 2026 – Beatles Tribute – Britain’s Finest Relive Beatlemania! Witness the youngest Nationally and Internationally touring Tribute to The Beatles embody the energy and spirit of Britain’s Finest band! The lads as you’ve

Eagle Eyes is critically acclaimed and considered to be one of the best Eagles tribute bands. With an enthusiastic fanbase and tour area stretching from Alaska, BC, Alberta, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon to California. Eagle Eyes has been selling out performances at festivals, theateres, corporate events, and many other venues for the past 7 years!

Mar. 16, 2026 – John Denver Tribute – Take Me Home

“Jim Curry was over there sounding like John Denver… I closed my eyes and went back to the times when I worked with John.” Pete Huttlinger, guitar player for John Denver. Come join in the fun and take in the joy and hope of a full inspired evening of the music of America’s most beloved singer songwriter. National touring performer Jim Curry will have you clapping your hands and singing along to hit after hit.

From the very first song you will know why Jim was cast to be the voice of John Denver in the CBS movie “Take me home: the John Denver Story”. Curry was chosen as a key performer in the induction of John Denver into the Colorado Music Hall of fame show and hosting the official John Denver Estate show that toured the United States and Australia, because of his pure clear voice that really delivers the music of John Denver.

Curry has delighted audiences for over 23 years. Come and experience it yourself with family and friends

2025-26 Season Ticket Sales

All the shows are booked for the next terrific season of entertainment in the performing arts series. Now is the time to plan on purchasing your 2025-2026 Season Tickets! In addition to the six shows (two each January, February & March), we have two great “pre-season” shows (one November and one December). A brochure highlighting each act and outlining the season ticket price is available online and in the Recreation Office.

This season we will have an open seat, first come process for purchasing, both online and in the Rec Office. Residents can go to LWCA.com website or by calling or coming into the Rec. Office. Select your seat from “2026 Season Ticket 6pk”. During the checkout process you will be asked to acknowledge Yes or No to include the 2025 Preseason 2-show-package; the Recreation Office will contact you later to finalize your Preseason purchase. Processing this way will guarantee you will receive the identical

seat for all 8 shows.

Season Tickets On Sale Now through September 5th!

Individual show tickets starting: October 1st

Trips and Tours

If you like one-day excursions or are looking to find your next big travel destination, look below to see what might fit your interests.

Tickets will now be sold directly through Kindred Tours. For more information, and a complete listing of all that Kindred Tours has to offer, call the office to receive a free subscription to the monthly newsletter. You can reach Kindred Tours at 480-497-2478 or visit the website at www.kindredtours.com to book tours.

KEY CODES: Kindred Tours (KT) ¤ Leisure World Recreation (LW) ¤ Premier World Discovery (PWD)

Featured Trip

Love to Explore? Join Leisure World’s Trips and Tours Email Blast! Be the first to know about Leisure World’s travel opportunities, with one email update every 1-2 weeks. Email Molly at mshort@lwca.com to join!

Your Leisure World Cruise is back!!! Join your Leisure World neighbors and friends for fun and high seas luxury on Celebrity Cruise’s new Celebrity Ascent. Experience the beautiful ports of the Southern Caribbean as we travel to Tortola, St. Johns, Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts & Nevis. Discover culture around every corner: Museums – Caribbean Shopping – Snorkeling – Crystal Blue Beaches –History – Delicious Caribbean Cuisine, with pleasant weather year-round. Departure

will be from Fort Lauderdale and there will be 4 relaxing days at sea on this voyage.

Price includes a Mid-Ship (Infinite Veranda) Stateroom with a balcony, round-trip flights from Sky Harbor to Fort Lauderdale, 1 pre-night hotel stay in Fort Lauderdale, classic beverage package, and basic wi-fi package, all port charges, government fees and taxes, pre-paid gratuities, cruise travel insurance, all meals and entertainment aboard ship, and round-trip motorcoach transportation from Leisure World and

back, and all round trip transports from airport to hotel to ship in Fort Lauderdale.

Act fast! Limited staterooms available. Register now in the Rec. Office or call 480-832-0000 ext. 209.

Room upgrades, Single, 3rd and 4th occupancy available upon request. Prices can be subject to change depending on fuel charges for flights and motorcoach rates.

Date: Jan. 2-Jan. 12, 2026

Cost: $4,530.00 per person (double occupancy)

Deposit: $450 per person, due at time of booking

Deadline for Full Payment: Mon., Aug. 5, 2025

JULY

Bearizona

July 1st, Tuesday $142 Journey with us to Williams, Arizona, home to Bearizona—Arizona’s premier wildlife park! We’ll enjoy a remarkable close-up experience with a wide variety of animals from the comfort of our own Transit vans, winding our way through 160 acres of Ponderosa pine forest. We’ll view bison, black bears, wolves and more—animals that are indigenous to North America—living comfortably in spacious, natural environments. Later enjoy a leisurely stroll through Fort Bearizona, a beautiful 20-acre walk-thru, offering an up-close experience with playful smaller animals. Lunch is on self, with two very different eateries to choose from, including Canyonlands—a 6,000 square foot themed restaurant—featuring soaring canyon walls and ancient ruins, a 25foot waterfall and breathtaking views of Bearizona’s jaguar exhibit. Canyonland’s menu runs from hickory smoked BBQ to fresh garden salads, gourmet burgers and more. If a quick bite is more to your liking, consider Bearizona Grille, offering outdoor deck dining and stadium favorites, such as hot dogs, cheesy nachos, soft pretzels and adult beverages. This tour is always a total blast and can be enjoyed all summer long! Depart: NW 8 a.m. R: 6 p.m.

The Riordan Mansionm& Historic Flagstaff

July 7th, Monday............. $133 Brothers Timothy and Michael Riordan were members of a prominent Arizona Territory family—involved in lumber, railroads, cattle, banking, and politics. Sons of Irish immigrants, they moved to Flag-

MOTORCOACH TRIPS:

staff to run the local lumber mill, which was established to provide wood for the Transcontinental Railroad.

The Riordan brothers married two sisters, Caroline and Elizabeth Metz. Working together the brothers built two nearly identical Arts and Crafts style mansions, connected by a large billiards room for a total of over 13,000 square feet of living area and servants’ quarters, with each family living in one of the mansions.

Charles Whittlesey, who was chief architect for the Santa Fe Railroad and designer of the Grand Canyon’s El Tovar Lodge, designed the state-of-the-art home in 1904, using local materials, such as volcanic basalt and Ponderosa pine trees to blend into the surrounding environment. The family lived in the mansion until the 1980’s when the second generation gifted Arizona State Parks the property. Arizona State Parks received a warranty from the surviving members of the Riordan family, conveying the Riordan homes, most of the contents, such as the east and west wings of the mansion, and five acres of surrounding land for State Park purposes. The state park opened on August 4, 1983, to preserve and share the history of not just the Riordan family, but of the city of Flagstaff. We’ll also enjoy lunch, on self, in historic downtown Flagstaff, home to many wonderful restaurants, so there is sure to be something for everyone.

Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway

July 10th,

Thursday…………...……….$115

Join us on the relaxing ride up Sky Island Scenic Byway, a breathtaking 25-mile paved road that takes us along one of Arizona’s most scenic byways, and winds us up a trail that ascends 9,157 feet through

the rugged Santa Catalina Mountains into a much cooler climate. Along the way there are many pull-off points for photo opportunities, or just to enjoy the magnificent landscape. Nestled into the rocky peak of Mount Lemmon sits the tiny town of Summerhaven, home to the Iron Door Restaurant, where we’ll enjoy lunch, on self. Pull up a chair on the patio surrounded by flowers and hummingbirds and treat yourself to a day away from the heat of the Valley.

Snowbowl’s Scenic Gondola Ride

July 17th, Thursday $135

We’re heading into the Flagstaff area to experience the exciting Snowbowl Scenic Gondola Ride to the top of Arizona! We’ll be transported 11,500 feet above sea level, while enjoying breathtaking views of Ponderosa Pine forest, the red rocks of Sedona, dramatic volcanic cinder cones, and on a clear day, the Grand Canyon! The gondola ride offers wonderful opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and a great escape from the heat of the Valley. We’ll also enjoy lunch on self at Snowbowl’s Agassiz Restaurant, offering a rustic atmosphere, additional outdoor seating, live music, a full bar, and a menu that runs from sandwiches and burgers to homemade soups and fresh salads. Reservations must be booked in advance. Don’t wait!

Meteor Crater & Barringer Space Museum

July 19th, Saturday ......... $139

Over 50,000 years ago space and earth came together when a huge iron-nickel meteorite, approximately 150 feet wide

and weighing several hundred thousand tons, impacted an area outside of Flagstaff, with a force 150 times greater than an atomic bomb. The result of this impact was devastation for miles and the creation of the giant bowl-shaped cavity we call Meteor Crater, which measures 550 feet deep and almost a mile wide. Today you can experience the Crater in an air-conditioned indoor viewing area, outside on one of the observation decks and self-guided trails, or on a guided tour along the rim. We’ll explore Meteor Crater Visitor Center, one of the most popular attractions in Northern Arizona. Discovery Center & Space Museum boasts hands-on exhibits and displays, where you can immerse yourself in the science and history of meteorite impacts around the world and we’ll enjoy Impact! Theater to learn about the history and geology of the crater. Before visiting Meteor Crater, we’ll enjoy lunch on self at the award-winning Turquoise Room at La Posada Hotel—the last of the great railroad hotels. Considered to be the finest restaurant in the Four Corners Region, the Turquoise Room offers a fabulous and affordable lunch menu, reflecting the unique flavors of the Southwest. Join us for this remarkable tour!

Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks

July 21st-24th, 2025

$949 Per Person (Based Upon Double Occupancy) $273 (Single Supplement)

Day One: We’ll leave the Valley headed for Cameron Trading Post for lunch on self. Nestled along the Colorado River, just 30 minutes south of the Grand Canyon, this trading post has been catering to Arizona

Trips and Tours continues on B12

Photo credit: Erica Odello. Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, Winslow, AZ.

Trips and Tours continued from B11

tourists since the early 1900’s, serving great food at moderate prices. After lunch it’s back in the Transits headed for Kanab, Utah—an incredibly scenic drive that takes us through Navajo land—with views of Marble Canyon, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam and more. We’ll check into the Holiday Inn Express Kanab, take a moment to refresh and gather for our own Happy Hour, before setting out for dinner on self.

Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel, then it’s back in the Transits and we’re headed for Zion National Park. Zion is a spectacular cliff and canyon landscape, a wondrous wilderness, including Kolob Arch, the world’s largest natural arch, with a span that measures 310 feet. Zion is rich with beautiful colors, breathtaking scenery and wildlife such as mule deer, golden eagles and mountain lions. We’ll spend a little time familiarizing ourselves with the area at the visitor’s center, before touring Zion from the comfort of a tram. Hop on, hop off as you wish. Later we’ll enjoy lunch on self, with two restaurants to choose from. Late afternoon we’ll return to our hotel and after a refresh, we’ll gather for our own Happy Hour before heading out for dinner on self.

Day Three: We’ll enjoy breakfast included at the hotel, and then it’s back in the Transits headed for Bryce Canyon National Park. The beauty of Bryce Canyon is beyond description. It has been called “a cave without a ceiling, a forest of stone.”

We’ll tour Bryce from the comfort of our own vehicle before stopping for a delicious lunch, on self, at Ruby’s Inn—where we’ll have two restaurants to choose from and their menus offer something for everyone. Bryce Canyon is a series of natural amphitheaters, with thousands of multi-colored rock pinnacles called “hoodoos.” We’ll travel the 20-mile paved highway along the rim, overlooking magnificent views of the natural structures that were carved by erosion into graceful forms that glow with various colors. Late afternoon we’ll return to our hotel and after a refresh, we’ll gather for our own Happy Hour, before setting out for dinner on self.

Day Four: Breakfast is included at the hotel, then it’s bags out and we’re back in the Transits headed for home, with plenty of great stops and sightseeing along the way. We hope you’ll join us on this incredible journey into the majestic beauty of Southern Utah!

AUGUST

San Diego Summertime Getaway! August 4th-7th, 2025

$999 Per Person (Based Double Occupancy)

$263 (Single Supplement)

Day One: We’ll leave the Valley with plenty of pit stops on our way to Yuma, Arizona, where we’ll enjoy lunch on self. After lunch we’ll head for Alpine, California and the beautiful Viejas Casino Resort, our headquarters for the next three nights. The Viejas Resort offers three luxury hotel towers, along with six restaurants, a lush pool and lounge area, an outlet shopping center, full-service spa and so much more. We’ll be offered $10 towards any of the Vieja food outlets, plus $25 in gambling bucks, per night, for the first two nights. We’ll check into our hotel rooms, enjoy dinner on self at the restaurant of your choice and have a free evening.

Day Two: We’ll enjoy breakfast on self at the hotel—a great opportunity to use your food outlet credit. After breakfast it’s back in the Transits, and we’ll head into downtown San Diego, where we’ll board Old Town Trolleys, an amazing way to experience San Diego’s most exciting attractions. We’ll do the loop together past Hotel del

Coronado, Balboa Park, Gaslamp Quarter, the Whaley House, Star of India—just to name a few—with a perfectly timed final stop at San Diego’s famous Little Italy, just in time for lunch on self. No San Diego tour would be complete without exploring this culinary hotspot—America’s biggest Little Italy! Known for its variety of restaurants, the vibrant streets of San Diego’s Italian quarter are not just lined with traditional pizza and pasta dishes, you’ll also find vegan options, juicy steaks, and so much more. Later we’ll set sail on a 2-hour narrated harbor cruise, aboard a yacht that offers both indoor and outdoor areas. We’ll explore more than 50 storied landmarks, we’ll cruise past Seaport Village, Shelter Island, Coronado Island, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument and more. We’ll encounter marine life and sea birds and enjoy remarkable photo opportunities. Late afternoon we’ll return to our hotel to enjoy an evening at leisure.

Day Three: Breakfast is on self at the hotel, and we’ll again have $10 towards Viejas food outlets. After breakfast we’ll head out to explore historic Highway 101. Once the principal north/south route in California, with the construction of Interstate 5 in the 1960’s, most of Highway 101 was bypassed and barely affected by California’s explosive growth. Nowadays historic Highway 101 gives us a look back at California in its early days, and the entire 935-mile route has been given historic designation by the state of California. We’ll journey north on Highway 101, stopping to explore Del Mar, the destination of choice for movie stars and horse racing fans—offering beautiful beaches and a charming downtown. We’ll continue our journey north to Solano Beach, a small coastal community known for its unique shops and galleries. Public art is a passion in Solano Beach and we’ll enjoy the murals and architecture. From here we’ll make our way to Encinitas, known as the surf and flower capital of the world; then on to Carlsbad, home to beautiful sandy beaches and three really unique lagoons. Our next stop is Oceanside, where we’ll visit the Oceanside Pier, the longest over-thewater pier on the West Coast. We’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of the Pacific Ocean and coastline to the north and south. Along the way we’ll grab lunch on self, before arriving in La Jolla, known as “the jewel” of San Diego. Surrounded on three sides by the sea and backed by the slopes of Mt. Soledad, La Jolla’s gorgeous coastline is one of the most popular destinations in California. Later we’ll travel back to our hotel for dinner on self and a free evening.

Day Four: Breakfast is on self at the hotel, and after breakfast it’s bags out and we’re headed for home. We’ll enjoy plenty of great sightseeing and a stop for lunch on self along the way. This fun and affordable Summertime Getaway is a Kindred Tours Classic!

OCTOBER

Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway featuring Mesa Verde & Chaco Culture National Parks

October 20th-23rd, 2025

$949 Per Person (Based Upon Double Occupancy) $231 (Single Supplement)

The Trail of the Ancients is a modern-day drive that connects the migration routes of America’s first peoples—the Ancestral Puebloans—who occupied a vast region of the American Southwest for over 2,000 years. The only National Scenic Byway that was designated primarily for its archaeological sites, the trail passes through some of the southwest’s most protected places. With no particular right or wrong way to explore this multi-state trail—which the

Federal Highway Administration says is 480 miles in total—we’ve planned a route that takes us through the trail’s most iconic sites, including Mesa Verde and Chaco Culture National Parks.

Day One: We’ll leave the Valley headed for Farmington, New Mexico, enjoying plenty of pitstops along the way, including a stop for lunch, on self, at the Painted Desert Diner at Petrified Forest National Park. Late afternoon, we’ll check into the Holiday Inn Express, and after a refresh, we’ll head out to enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner, included.

Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel. Back in the Transits we’re headed for Chaco Culture National Park. Chaco Canyon is home to the densest and most exceptional concentration of pueblos in the American Southwest. The park preserves one of the most important pre-Columbian cultural and historical areas in the United States. Between 850 to 1250 CE (Common Era), Chaco Canyon was a major center of culture for the Ancient Pueblo Peoples. Chacoans quarried sandstone blocks and hauled timber from great distances, assembling fifteen major complexes that remained the largest buildings in North America until the 19th century. Many Chacoan buildings may have been aligned to capture the solar and lunar cycles, requiring generations of astronomical observations and centuries of skillfully coordinated construction. Climate change is thought to have led to the emigration of Chacoans and the eventual abandonment of the canyon, beginning with a fifty-year drought commencing in 1130. Chaco Canyon is a World Heritage Site and considered sacred ancestral homelands by the Hopi and Pueblo people, who maintain oral accounts of their historical migration from Chaco and their spiritual relationship to the land. We’ll enjoy a picnic lunch, included, while exploring Chaco Canyon. Late afternoon we’ll head back to our hotel, and after a refresh we’ll gather for our own Happy Hour, included, before heading out to enjoy dinner on self.

Day Three: Breakfast is included at the hotel. Back in the Transits we’re headed for Mesa Verde National Park. For over 700 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people built thriving communities on the mesas

and in the cliffs of Mesa Verde. Today, the park protects the rich cultural heritage of 27 Pueblos and Tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past. This World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park is home to over a thousand species, including several that live nowhere else on earth. Early afternoon we’ll travel to historic Durango, Colorado, where we’ll enjoy lunch, on self, with several wonderful restaurants to choose from. Later we’ll visit Aztec Ruins National Monument, a Chaco Canyon outlier, home to some of the best-preserved Chacoan structures of its kind. We’ll learn about the ancestral Pueblo people in the park’s museum and explore the Aztec West great house to see exceptionally advanced architecture, original wooden beams, and a restored Great Kiva. Aztec Ruins is a deeply sacred place to many Indigenous peoples across the American Southwest. Early evening we’ll return to our hotel, and after a refresh we’ll gather for our own Happy Hour, included, before heading out to enjoy dinner on self.

Day Four: Breakfast is included at the hotel, then it’s bags out and we’re headed for home. We’ll enjoy plenty of great sightseeing along the way, as well as a stop for lunch, on self, at the fabulous La Posada Hotel—the last of the great railroad hotels. The La Posada is home to the award winning Turquoise Room—said to be the best restaurant in the Four Corners region—offering an affordable lunch menu that features regional contemporary Southwestern Cuisine, with an occasional tribute to the great days of the Fred Harvey Company. We’re revving up our engines for this remarkable road trip and we’d love to have you join us!

Would you like to know more? We recommend The Mystery of Chaco Canyon, available free on Prime Video. Narrated by Robert Redford, this documentary examines the ancient ruins of Chaco Canyon, describing and demonstrating the intricate and precise astronomical alignments among the many buildings spread over a wide desert area. These alignments, along with other evidence, support the theory that Chaco Canyon was a major ceremonial center.

Photo credit: Abigail Loney. Bryce Canyon National Park in southern Utah is famous for it's rock formations known as “hoodoos."

LEISURE WORLD AQUATIC & ATHLETIC SPORTS CLUB

August Group Exercise Class Registrations Begins Tuesday, July 1 at 7:00 a.m., online, in-person or by phone.

If you register for a class with Silver Sneakers®/ Flex®, Silver & Fit®, or Renew Active®, you are required to attend 100% of the classes for the month. A $2 fee will be charged to your account for each class missed.

Effective July 1, 2025:

Drop-ins will increase from $5.00 to $7.00 and from $10.00 to $12.00

We will offer packages of drop-ins in order for residents to receive a discount on that price.

Try-a-trio - $10 for 3 drop-ins of choice.

(Only one Try-a-Trio package per resident per 6 months)

Expires 180 days after purchase

A Perfect 10 - $60 for 10 drop-ins of choice.

Expires 180 days after purchase

Power Pack 20 - $100 for 20 drop-ins of choice.

Expires 180 days after purchase

Open 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Daily Staffed M-F 5 a.m. to 4 p.m. 480-832-0000 Ext. 212 www.lwca.com

MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Gary and Beverly

My husband Gary and I moved to Arizona in 1992. Once Gary retired in 2017, we moved to Leisure World because we were impressed with the recreational opportunities available in Leisure World. Gary loves classic cars, poker, and pickleball.

Though previously, sports were my favorite type of exercise, due to mobility and balance issues my sporting days have been over for a while. Although I have plenty of exercise equipment at home—bands, weights, and more—I also have many distractions. I’ve learned that I’m someone who needs structure and accountability. Knowing that others expect me to show up on a certain day and time helps keep me motivated and committed. That’s why the Leisure World fitness classes work so well for me.

Over time, I’ve participated in Aqua Fit, Forever Fit, Fight Back Boxing, TRX Fundamentals, Hydro-Rider, Strength and Balance, and many other LW classes. The aqua classes are my favorite. In the water, I can jump, run, dance, and spin without fear of falling—because the worst that can happen is I get my hair wet!

We’re fortunate at Leisure World to have experienced instructors. Each brings a unique teaching style, but all share the same qualities: they’re knowledgeable,

CLASS SPOTLIGHT

empathetic, encouraging, and enthusiastic. In class, we don’t just work up a sweat—we laugh and have fun! As someone with mechanical body parts and limited mobility, I truly appreciate how every instructor offers modifications so each participant can work at their own level. These classes are a no-judgment zone where we’re all just doing our best to get healthier.

After four months of dedicated class attendance, my doctor is very pleased with my progress and even reduced the number of medications I take. Leisure World fitness classes have made a difference in my life and they can help you too!

Mindful Movement: Chair Yoga

What is Yoga, beyond the perception of breathing and poses? Yoga is a journey guided by the 8 limbs Yama(Restraints), Niyama(Positive Duties), Asana(Posture), Pranayama(Breathing Techniques), Pratyahara(Sense Withdrawal), Dharana(Focused Concentration), Dhyana(Meditative Absorption) and Samadhi(Enlightenment). Yoga is focused on the individual internally and the individual relation to the world. The Breath and Poses support your current moment, view of the world, and what you want to accomplish. Let's see some of what the current class members have shared:

"It helps me focus when I need to organize my thoughts or find my keys. Who knew that to inhale and exhale can do such wonders?"

"I leave feeling refreshed, awake, alert, and ready for the rest of the day."

"I find that I look forward to the different movements and the conscious breathing."

"Has helped with the pain and flexibility of my lower back."

"I enjoy the Chair Yoga class as it gives me an opportunity during the day to quiet my mind."

"One half hour that leaves everyone calm and energized at the same time."

"I understand that controlled breathing can improve my physical as well as my emotional well-being."

Where and how yoga started is interesting and can be debated, but its effectiveness cannot. Yoga has been in many places and helped many. The tools include a frame of mind in addition to physical tools. Chair yoga at Leisure World helps with the stability of a chair but is not to be confused with being easy. You may come hoping to be able to bend a knee more, to be able to reach higher, to be able to put your socks on more easily and leave energized and more equipped for your daily life.

July Group Exercise Schedule*

July Class Descriptions

Aqua Fit M/W/F 8:00AM - 8:45AM OR T/Th 8:00AM - 8:45AM – 45 minute class - This class provides a water workout that includes cardio conditioning and muscle strengthening exercises using a variety of equipment with the water’s natural resistance. $5/class or $30.00/month for M/W/F, $25 for T/TH (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Barre Sculpt M/W/F 10:00AM - 10:45AM – 45 minute class - This low-impact, ballet-inspired workout is designed for active older adults seeking to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. Using a sturdy barre or chair for support, we’ll combine gentle movements with controlled strength training and stretching. Perfect for those ready for a moderate challenge while staying joint- friendly and safe. $5/class or $30.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew –monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Breath & Meditation Mondays 1:00PM - 1:30PM – DROP-IN ONLY – 30 minute class - A class that will explore various breathing techniques to improve physical and mental well-being. It will focus intentional breathing, guided meditation and mindfulness to promote relaxation, reduce stress and increase energy $5/Class (FLEX, S&F, Renew – counts as 1 drop-in)

Clogging- Fridays 11:45AM - 2:45PM – Clogging is a truly American form of dancing, with steps taken from different cultures, and can be danced to a wide variety of music styles. It is good physical exercise as well as brain exercise! The focus is on learning the steps, and the steps are “called” so you can easily dance to different songs as you learn. You are welcome to learn at your own pace, and the class ranges from early beginner to intermediate plus and more. $5/class or $30.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in per hour)

Fight Back Boxing M/W 11:45AM - 12:30PM – 45 minute class - This non-contact class is based on the Rocksteady Boxing for Parkinson’s program. It will improve cardio fitness, balance, agility, motor skill & coordination, and functional strength conditioning. You will need to provide your own gloves and hand wraps $5/class or $25.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Forever Fit M/W/F 9:00AM - 9:45AM OR T/TH 9:00AM - 9:45 AM – 45 minute class - This class incorporates low impact cardio intervals with weight bearing exercises to increase strength and bone density for a full body workout including balance challenges and flexibility. You will also learn how to successfully get on and off the floor with or without a chair as needed. $5/class or $30.00/month for M/ $25.00 for T/TH (FLEX, S&F, Renew –monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in) W/F

Functional Circuit M/W 3:00PM - 3:45 PM & F 4:00PM – 4:45PM (FRIDAY IS DROP-IN ONLY) – 45 minute class - An interval type of physical training (cardio & strength) that involves high intensity exercise alternated with rest periods is highly effective in conditioning the cardiovascular system. Must be able to easily get up and down from the floor. $5/class or $25.00/month for M/W, Friday is drop-in or insurance only (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop- in)

HydroRider® Tuesday OR Thursday 8:00AM - 8:45AM – 45 minute class - Aqua cycling has become a fitness phenomenon because of the many incredible benefits - high caloric burn, lean muscle-building, increased circulation, with low impact on the joints. Aqua shoes required. $10/class or $30.00/month for Tues, $30 for Thurs (S&F and Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Introduction to Yoga Thursdays 11:45am – 1:00PM – DROP-IN or Month – A five-week series that connects your curiosity about a yoga journey to establishing a practice. Whether you are a complete novice or have dabbled a bit, this series will offer light discussion and understanding as well as a practice. Please bring your own yoga mat. $10/Class or $40.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – counts as 2 drop-ins)

Mat Pilates T/Th 10:00AM - 10:45AM – 45 minute class - This class is based on Joseph Pilates principles focusing on connecting breath and core activation. It’s designed to build core strength, abdominal endurance, and tone muscles. You must be able to get on and off the floor with or without chair assistance. $5/class or $25.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Mindful Movement: Chair Yoga M/W 2:00PM - 2:30PM & F 3:00PM – 3:30PM (FRIDAY IS DROP-IN ONLY) – 30 minute class - Join us for a rejuvenating and gentle yoga experience designed to promote flexibility, body awareness, mental clarity and pain management from the safety and comfort of your chair. No prior yoga experience is necessary. Minimal equipment may be used to assist in a deeper or more stable stretch. $5/class or $20.00/month for M/W, Friday is drop-in or insurance only (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Mobility & Functional Movement Tuesdays 11:45AM – 12:30PM – DROP-IN ONLY – 45 minute class – A class created to move the body with better muscle and joint function making way for more effortless and pain free movement. It is a preventative tool to reduce injury and lubricate the body creating better balance and range of motion. This class will require being on the floor $5/class (FLEX, S&F, Renew – counts as 1 drop-in)

Strength & Balance M/W/F 11:00AM – 11:30AM, T/Th 11:00AM - 11:30AM – 30 minute class - Classes will concentrate on range of motion from head to toe along with lifting hand-held weights and using one’s own body weight to improve stability and strength. $5/class or $25/month for M/W/F, $20.00 for T/TH (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

TRU Strength M/W/F 6:00AM - 6:45 AM – 45 minute class - This functional strength training class is designed to counter many of the physically adverse effects of aging by improving muscle tone, connective tissue strength, enhancing metabolism, and development of both daily and athletic performance while teaching you proper form & mechanics. $5/class or $30.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

TRX T/TH 2:00PM - 2:45PM – 45 minute class - TRX is a form of suspension training that uses body weight exercises to develop strength, balance, flexibility, and core stability, leveraging gravity and the user’s body weight with the TRX Suspension Trainer. $5/class or $25.00/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)

Bulletin Notes

• Schedule is subject to change. All classes need a minimum of 5 registered to proceed with class.

• We have added some special classes throughout the week. With the exception of Intro to Yoga, these classes will be $5 drop-in first come. If using insurance they will count as 1 drop-in. Space is limited. Yoga will be $10/class or $40/month (5 classes), if using insurance this class will count as 2 drop-ins.

• Registration for August group exercise classes opens Tuesday, July 1, 2025

• No classes or personal training sessions on Friday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day.

• Fitness Center Guest Membership: Leisure World members who would like to add guest to their membership for use of Fitness Center can please do so at the front desk of the administration building. All members and guests must sign-in on the computer at the fitness center desk.

• Aqua Fitness and Hydro Rider classes are subject to cancellation due to weather conditions. Residents who self-pay for these classes will receive a credit to their A/R member account for cancelled classes.

ATTENTION RENEW ACTIVE & Silver/Fit Members

Starting in January your insurance will cover 10 drop-in classes OR 10 visits to ONE class. This will include classes that are scheduled 3 times per week. Renew Active and Silver & Fit members that are registered for these classes can only attend 10 during the 4-week period to be covered with insurance. You CAN pay the DROP-IN FEE to attend the remainder of classes for that month.

Rec. 1 Pool

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Boosting Potassium, Not Just Cutting Sodium, May Be the Best Way to Lower Blood Pressure

Adding more potassium to your diet could be an easier, more effective way to lower blood pressure than cutting salt alone, new research finds.

The study, published in the American Journal of Physiology–Renal Physiology, builds on what scientists have long understood: That sodium and potassium work together to regulate blood pressure.

“Usually, when we have high blood pressure, we are advised to eat less sodium,” study author Anita Layton, PhD, a professor of applied mathematics, computer science, pharmacy, and biology at the University of Waterloo in Canada, told Health.

The new research, however, “suggests that adding more potassium-rich foods to your diet, such as bananas or broccoli, might have a greater positive impact on your blood pressure than just cutting sodium,” Layton said in a news release.

What the New Research Says

For the study, Layton and her team dug into how the ratio of potassium to sodium impacts the body.

Using a mathematical model, the study authors simulated how different sodium-to-potassium ratios affected bodily systems, including the renal system (kidneys), cardiovascular system, and gastrointestinal system. “I basically used math as my microscope,” said Layton.

Ultimately, researchers found more dietary potassium helped lower blood pressure, even with “high” or “normal” levels of sodium intake—whenever potassium went up, regardless of sodium levels, blood pressure went down.

The researchers also discovered a notable difference when they adjusted for sex in the mathematical models: Men were more likely to have a greater reduction in blood pressure after increasing their potassium-to-sodium ratio than premenopausal women. (That’s a key differentiator because blood pressure tends to tick up after menopause.)

Researchers say, however, that it’s important to take these findings with a grain of salt: Computer models are a fast, inexpensive, and ethical way of simulating the human body, but Layton stressed they are an “approximation of physiology.”

When you consume too much sodium, more water gets drawn into your blood vessels, swelling their blood volume. This makes your blood pressure increase, which can damage the vessels’ walls and lead to the buildup of plaque in your arteries. This stunts healthy blood flow and stresses your heart over time.

Potassium has the opposite effect: It relaxes the walls of your blood vessels, reducing the tension in your arteries so blood can circulate more easily, said Michelle Routhenstein, RD, a preventive cardiology dietitian at Entirely Nourished, a nutrition counseling and consulting practice. (Routhenstein was not involved in the new study.)

The Science Behind Potassium, Sodium, and Blood Pressure

An understanding of the balance of sodium and potassium in the body and its effects on heart health isn’t necessarily new.

“One of the ways sodium and potassium work in tandem is through the kidneys,” Routhenstein told Health. Your kidneys have specialized proteins, called transporters, that use potassium to funnel sodium out of your body through your urine. Basically, the more potassium you eat, the less sodium you retain.

The human brain is a three-pound supercomputer capable of an awe-inspiring power to learn, remember, and solve problems. Yet people often struggle with lack of concentration and loss of focus.

Why is it difficult for me to maintain concentration and focus?

Some people have an underlying condition called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that causes them to become easily distracted and interferes with their ability to pay attention. But many other factors can affect concentration and focus. Your age, your health, sleep deprivation, the environment, and your emotions all play a part.

Lifestyle habits often play an important role as well. For instance:

Multitasking. The ping-pong effect of switching focus back and forth between tasks takes a greater toll on brain power than focusing only on one task at a time.

Digital distractions. People are constantly bombarded with texts, emails, Slack messages, and smartphone notifications. The daily tsunami of digital distractions can challenge the brain's attention-regulating neural networks.

Alcohol. Excessive drinking can slow brain activity and impair concentration.

Stress. Emotional stress weakens the ability of the brain's prefrontal cortex to carry out its many functions, which include attention and working memory.

Medications. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications have side effects that affect attention and focus. Drugs that can cause these problems include:

• sleep aids, allergy medications, and cold and flu preparations containing diphenhydramine

• anti-anxiety medications

• anticholinergic medications, including some antidepressants, antihistamines, anti-Parkinson's drugs, and bladder control medications

• anticonvulsant medications

• cardiovascular drugs and beta blockers

• corticosteroids

• narcotic pain medications

• prescription sedatives and sleep medications.

How can I improve my concentration and focus?

Everyone's brain is wired differently, and some people struggle with concentration and focus more than others. People should see their doctor if they notice sudden changes in their ability to concentrate — for example, if they have trouble finishing routine tasks and chores, regularly misplace essential items, or make frequent poor decisions. These symptoms may be due to an underlying condition that needs medical care, like heart disease, depression, anxiety, or dementia.

Lifestyle changes to improve concentration and focus Making certain lifestyle changes can help many people improve their concentration and stay focused. For example:

Concentration & Focus

Do more aerobic exercise. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. Examples include running, brisk walking, or swimming. Aerobic exercise increases blood flow to the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for focus and concentration.

Get enough sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. Try to go to bed around the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. Consult your doctor about any medical issues that interfere with your sleep, such as obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, frequent nighttime bathroom trips, menopausal night sweats, or joint pain.

Eat healthier. Plant-based diets like the Mediterranean diet that emphasize eating more fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber foods while avoiding simple sugars have been shown to support brain health.

Review your medications. If you are having trouble with concentration and focus, ask your doctor if a medication you are taking could be contributing to the problem.

Habits and strategies to improve concentration and focus

Adopting certain habits and strategies also may help. For instance:

Work in blocks of time. Working in small chunks of time, with rest periods in between, can help with focus since attention tends to wane after a certain period. How

long you can maintain focus depends on the person. Experiment with a time frame that works for you.

Avoid multitasking. Do one task at a time until it's completed, then move on to the next.

Remove distractions. Turn off the TV, set up website blockers, turn off the smartphone, or adjust the settings to block calls and notifications during certain hours.

Engage your brain. Practice activities that require focus and concentration, preferably ones that require a high level of attention. Try learning a new skill like learning to play a musical instrument or studying a new language.

Practice mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness is about focusing attention on the present moment. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to rewire the brain to strengthen concentration. For a few minutes each day, sit still, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing and the sounds and sensations around you.

Stay social. Loneliness can lead to depression, anxiety, stress, and interfere with focus and attention, so stay socially engaged with friends or family to keep your mind active and sharp.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/concentrationfocus

Community Acupuncture

Date: Wed., Aug.

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom

Heron Lakes Golf

Potassium-Rich Foods to Help Lower Blood Pressure

Potassium supplements carry potential safety risks, so getting potassium through food is the way to go, said Layton and Routhenstein.

The FDA set potassium’s daily value at 4,700 milligrams, while the American Heart Association recommends a daily intake of 3,500 to 5,000 milligrams to treat high blood pressure.

Most adults don’t get anywhere close to that amount, said Routhenstein. (At a minimum, men should aim for at least 3,400 milligrams of potassium per day, while women should shoot for at least 2,600 milligrams.)

Bananas get all the glory, with one medium fruit serving up 422 milligrams of potassium. However, there are many other potassium-rich foods that can help you lower blood pressure, like apricots, lentils, baked potatoes, spinach, and salmon.

Finding Your Potassium-to-Sodium Ratio

There’s no “golden” potassium-to-sodium ratio that’s recommended for everyone. Your health history, lifestyle, and dietary needs all play a role in how much of each mineral you should eat per day, said Routhenstein.

The American Heart Association suggests limiting daily sodium intake to 1,500 to 2,300 milligrams, especially if you have high blood pressure.6 (Pair that with 4,700 milligrams of potassium, and you’re looking at double the potassium to sodium, or a 2:1 ratio.)

This may be easier for some people than others. For example, if you order most of your meals, it’ll take more time and effort to make lasting changes.

“I’ve helped many people get off their blood pressure

medication while they’re only going out to eat,” said Routhenstein. “In those situations, the potassium is where we focus first because we have more ability to control that.”

Working with a registered dietitian who specializes in heart disease can help you figure out what works best for you.

Small Changes to Cut Sodium and Increase Potassium If you want to start making small changes on your own, here are a few tips to help you work toward your ideal balance:

Limit your daily sodium to 2,300 milligrams. Do your best to spread your intake throughout the day, rather than eating it all at once.

Increase your potassium—slowly. Many potassium-rich foods are also high in fiber, and too much of that too quickly can cause GI distress like gas and bloating, and maybe even dramatic shifts in your blood pressure. Make one potassium-rich swap for each meal. For breakfast, swap strawberries for bananas; at lunch, use spinach instead of iceberg lettuce; and at dinner, add kidney beans or lentils.

Remember, your diet also needs to be enjoyable for it to stick. “It should be personalized because trying to make changes quickly is not sustainable,” said Routhenstein. “And with heart health, you need to have a long-term game plan.”

https://www.health.com/increase-potassium-cutsodium-lower-blood-pressure-11718404

GOLF DEPARTMENT

Dan Yoder Head Golf Professional

As the mercury climbs in Arizona, golf enthusiasts are faced with a unique challenge: enjoying their favorite sport while combating the scorching summer sun. While the allure of lush fairways and challenging greens may beckon, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and health amidst the desert heat. Here are some essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable golfing experience during Arizona’s summer months.

1. Hydration is Key: In the blistering Arizona heat, dehydration can sneak up on you quickly. Start hydrating well before you hit the course and continue to drink plenty of water throughout your game. Consider carrying a refillable water bottle and taking regular sips, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

2. Dress Appropriately: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that offers protection from the sun. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF to shield yourself from harmful UV rays. Lightcolored clothing can also help reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cooler.

3. Time Your Tee-off: Plan your tee times wisely to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or late afternoon rounds are ideal, as temperatures tend to be more bearable during these times. Additionally, be mindful of the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as dizziness, nausea, or rapid heartbeat, and seek shade immediately if you start to feel unwell.

4. Pace Yourself: Take breaks in the shade whenever possible to give your body a chance to cool down.

Consider playing at a slower pace to conserve energy and prevent overheating. Listen to your body’s cues and don’t push yourself beyond your limits in the heat.

5. Stay Cool on the Course: Some golf courses in Arizona offer amenities like mist stations or shaded rest areas to help players beat the heat. Take advantage of these facilities whenever you can to lower your body temperature and stay comfortable during your round.

6. Know When to Call it Quits: Despite your best efforts to stay safe in the sun, there may come a point when the heat becomes too much to bear. If temperatures soar to extreme levels or you begin to

Leisure World Golf Staff

experience symptoms of heat-related illness, don’t hesitate to cut your round short and seek relief indoors.

By following these tips, golfers can navigate Arizona’s summer heat with confidence, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience on the course. Remember, while the allure of golfing in the desert may be strong, your health should always come first. So, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and know when it’s time to take a break and cool off. With the right precautions, you can tee off with peace of mind, even in the hottest of Arizona summers.

Shane Romesburg Golf Operations Manager

Dan Yoder Head Golf Pro

Jedd Helgestad Assistant Golf Pro

GOLF CLUBS

Unlocking Long Drives

A Senior Golfer’s Guide to Increasing Distance

Dan Yoder Head Golf Professional

As golfers, we all strive to hit the ball farther off the tee, and for senior golfers, maintaining distance becomes even more crucial to stay competitive and enjoy the game to its fullest. While age may bring some physical limitations, there are various techniques and strategies senior golfers can employ to maximize their distance off the tee. In this instructional guide, we will explore key tips and drills specifically tailored to help senior golfers unlock more distance in their drives.

1. Proper Warm-Up Routine: Before stepping onto the tee box, it’s essential for senior golfers to engage in a comprehensive warm-up routine. This routine should include dynamic stretches targeting the shoulders, hips, and back to improve flexibility and range of motion. Additionally, incorporating a few practice swings with a focus on full rotation can help loosen up muscles and promote a smoother, more efficient swing.

2. Adjust Your Equipment: Senior golfers can benefit from using equipment that suits their swing speed and physical capabilities. Consider using a driver with a higher loft to maximize carry distance and promote a higher launch angle. Additionally, opting for lighter shafts and larger clubhead sizes can help generate more clubhead speed and forgiveness on off-center hits.

3. Focus on Flexibility and Mobility: As we age, maintaining flexibility and mobility becomes increasingly important in generating power and distance. Senior golfers should prioritize incorporating flexibility exercises into their regular fitness routine, focusing on improving rotation in

the shoulders, hips, and spine. Yoga, Pilates, and specific golf mobility drills can all contribute to increased flexibility and range of motion, leading to more powerful and efficient swings.

4. Tempo and Timing: Senior golfers should focus on developing a smooth and consistent tempo in their swings. Avoiding quick, jerky movements and instead prioritizing a controlled backswing and transition can help generate more power and accuracy. Practice drills such as the “one-two-three” rhythm drill, where you count “one” on the backswing, “two” at the top of the swing, and “three” on the downswing, can help establish a balanced and rhythmic swing tempo

5. Efficient Power Transfer: To maximize distance, senior golfers should focus on efficient power transfer from their body to the clubhead. This involves engaging the lower body in the downswing and using the ground for leverage and stability. Initiating the downswing with a subtle shift of weight from the back foot to the front foot, followed by a powerful rotation of the hips and torso, can help generate increased clubhead speed and distance.

6. Develop a Strong Core: A strong core is essential for generating power and stability in the golf swing, especially for senior golfers. Incorporate corestrengthening exercises such as planks, Russian twists, and medicine ball rotations into your fitness

routine to improve core stability and rotational power. A strong core not only helps generate more distance but also contributes to better balance and consistency in your swingMaintain Proper Posture and Alignment: Proper posture and alignment are fundamental elements of a powerful and accurate golf swing. Senior golfers should focus on maintaining a balanced posture throughout the swing, with a slight tilt from the hips at address. Additionally, ensuring proper alignment of the body and clubface towards the target can help promote a more efficient and consistent ball flight, leading to increased distance off the tee.

By implementing these key tips and drills into their practice routine, senior golfers can unlock more distance off the tee and enjoy improved performance on the golf course. Remember to prioritize flexibility, tempo, power transfer, and core strength, and don’t forget the importance of proper warm-up and equipment adjustments. With dedication and practice, senior golfers can continue to hit powerful and impressive drives well into their golden years.

CLUBS

Leisure World Billiards Encounters Summer Solstice Visitors

During summer months LW Billiards is known for a modest crew of billiard loyalists. This summer solstice however brought an encounter swirling in discussion. One witness who refused to be identified shared, “Both visitors appeared like beings from another planet (refer to sketch below) - dressed in long gowns - they appeared to communicate through a series of mumbles!” When asked if this could be a couple of Millennialists playing a-round, the witness stated, “Not a chancethese visitors were talented!” LW Billiards Master of Tournaments Billybob Glover said, “I won’t say they’re aliens, but their billiards play was Out-of–this-worldthey pocketed a ball every shot!” Top Gun Doug Henry added “I was there when it happened and one of them floated above the table to shoot while its leg stretched out like plastic to conform to the one foot on the floor rule (Although it looked more like a hoof rather than a foot)!” But LW Billiard veteran Carl Peterson dismissed the visitors-from-outer-space rumors as nonsense saying, “These were VDO cone-heads spying on the LW Billiard talent in off-season - they’re frightened of losing the East Valley Billiards tournament next season (referencing Valle Del Oro Billiards club East Valley dominant standing)!” In related events that evening, multiple LW residents posted seeing bright lights above LW while Mesa Gateway Airport closed operations several times. MGA representatives refused to comment due to the on-going FAA investigation.

Composite sketchLW Billiards Summer Solstice Visitor

If you believe in Aliens from outer space, Unidentified Flying Objects or a purpose to defeat LW Billiard rivals - our Tuesday 9-ball and Thursday & Saturday 8-ball tournaments (12:30p) continue throughout the summer, Leisure World Billiards welcomes players (& ALL visitors) at all levels to join us - You’ll never know who you might meet!

GATHER

The GATHER group made a double trip to Singing Pandas in May due to the demand and request for a return visit of fine dining and listening to the tunes

of Don Williams former keyboard player for the temptations, and his 2 fantastic vocalists. The trips had approx. 30 people for each visit with lots of new guests for each visit. As of this writing, I am also looking into having Don and his crew do a performance her for us in the Hopi/Pima room for a night of dancing.

George Miller Manor 1625 774-275-4009

Leisure World Investment Club (Aka: Green Bananas)

Submitted by: Frank Jacoby Manor 1540

Our current club members have on average, enjoyed a 14% compound annual return over the duration of their memberships. Non-members, new members, beginners and seasoned investors are always welcome guests at our meetings.

Are you making the right moves for your retirement? Learn about investing, discuss market conditions, discover ideas for your retirement portfolio, bounce ideas/tips off others, experience an entertaining and social way to build your nest egg.

The Leisure World Investment Club has been educating members and residents about investing in the stock market and investing the assets of the partnership for the benefit of members/partners since 1987.

Members enjoy access to the resources and benefits derived from our affiliation with “myICLUB” and “Better Investing”.

We typically meet on the second Wednesday of each month, October through May and additionally as needed over the summer.

Our summer meeting/s will be held via Zoom.

Please contact Frank Jacoby (frankjacoby4@gmail. com) or 248-535-5456 for more information or an invitation to a summer meeting. Our meeting’s focus on analysis of our portfolio as well as easy techniques for critical evaluation of hot new stock tips.

Leisure World’s Singles Group

• Tuesday, July 1, Solo Breakfast at Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30am

• HAPPY JULY 4TH,

• Tuesday, July 8, Solo Breakfast at Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30

am

• Tuesday, July 8, OOW Lunch P.F. Changs Noon **

• Look for coupons in LW newspaper

• Wednesday, July 9, Trivia, Rec. 1, Ballroom, 6pm $2.

**

• Monday, July 14, Solo Lunch at Cafe, Rec. 2, 11:00

**

• Tuesday, July 15, Breakfast, Rec. 2, Cafe, 7:30 am

• Thursday, July 17, POTLUCK 5pm club room Rec. 1, bring dish to share, theme Cold Salads $3. for expenses, **

• Tuesday, July 22, Breakfast at Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30am

• Wednesday, July 23, Trivia, Rec. 1 Ballroom, 6pm $2. **

• Monday, July 28, Solo lunch, Cafe Rec. 2, 11am, **

• Tuesday, July 29, Dinner Organ Stop Pizza

• Christmas in July, 4:30 carpool Rec. 2 **

** Means reservations are necessary, when we get numbers we can decide who will drive and car pool Solo@theSpearmans.com

Question, comments Barbara Peters 309-215-7203 Manor 2114

Sonoran Desert Garden Club

Summer means heat and we can always count on that! We will be discussing that topic at our summer meetings. Take a look at Transplanted Gardener (in Leisure World newspaper) this month to learn about our community by giving those who get landscaping services to make a decision about keeping their Oleander (Nerium oleander). As it is time for painting your house, landscaping will be asking if you want them to remove your Oleander. This could save time relating to labor costs by using less water, not needing the pruning and haul away of debris but I understand they will only take them out if you want.

Come tell us what is growing in your garden!

We meet on the Third Thursday of each month in the Theatre unless it is a special meeting that requires another space.

If you have any questions, email Tish Murphy @ Tishsource@aol.com.

REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS JULY 2025

7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)

8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)

9:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

9:00 a.m. Pottery Class (POT)

9:00 a.m. Twiddlers (FA)

10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)

12:00 p.m. Mah Jongg Madness (LC)

12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)

1:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)

1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (P)

6:00 p.m. Scrabble (LC)

TUESDAY

8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (PIMA)

9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

9:00 a.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

9:00 a.m. Ceramics (CER/SG)

9:30 a.m. Big Band (HPG)

10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)

12:00 p.m. Pinochle (QCR)

12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)

1:00 p.m. Hand and Foot (LC)

2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)

3:30 p.m. Music Makers (MR)

6:00 p.m Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)

7:00 p.m. Mah Jong (LC)

WEDNESDAY

7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)

8:00 a.m. Wednesday Coffee (CLR)

8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)

9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)

9:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

9:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (POT)

10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)

12:00 p.m. Mexican Train (LC)

12:00 p.m. Happy Ladies Bridge (APA)

12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

12:00 p.m. Pinochle (QCR)

1:00 p.m. Cribbage (QCR)

6:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)

6:00 p.m. Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)

6:00 p.m. Hand and Foot - Samba (LC)

THURSDAY

8:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)

8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (PIMA)

8:30 a.m. Ladies Billiards (B)

9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

9:00 a.m. Pottery Class (POT)

9:30 a.m. Christian Fellowship (T)

9:00 a.m. Quilters (FA)

10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)

12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

1:00 p.m. Bridge Thurs Ladies (LC)

1:00 p.m. Dealers Choice Poker (NAV)

1:00 p.m. Mah Jongg (APA)

2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)

4:00 p.m. Chess (LC)

6:00 p.m. Hand and Foot - Samba (LC)

6:30 p.m. Party Bridge (APA)

7:00 p.m. “l-15” tournament (B)

FRIDAY

7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)

8:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (CER/SG)

8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)

9:00 a.m. Knitters & Crocheters (FA)

9:00 a.m. pen Studio (AS)

9:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (POT) 9:30 a.m. Ceramics (CER/SG)

9:30 a.m. Ukulele Group (MR)

10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)

12:00 p.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)

12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

1:00 p.m. Cribbage (QCR)

6:30 p.m. Game Night (LC)

7:00 p.m. Bingo (BR)

SATURDAY

8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (C) 9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)

9:00 a.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)

9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)

12:30 p.m. “8-ball” tournament (B) 2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)

CARD & GAME CLUBS

Card and Game Events Schedule

Card groups listed are open games and residents are welcome to come and join the group. Reserved room is subject to sharing if less than 20 in attendance.

BRIDGE GROUPS

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Mondays & Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Year Round

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Friday, 12:30 p.m. April – October

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Sunday, 12:30 p.m. October-May

Non-Sanctioned Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Roger Mickelson, 319-750-7112 . Thursday, 12:30 p.m. Sept –May.

Partner (LC) Contact: Lynn Peters, 262-853-4870 Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Year Round.

Party (APA) Contact: Lynn Peters, 262-853-4870 Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Year Round.

Progressive (QCR) Contact: Marlene Patton 507-2710003 . Thursday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct – May.

POKER GROUPS

Dealer’s Choice (NAV) Contact: Jim Munkwitz, 803-7471677 . Tuesday & Wednesday 6:00 p.m., and Thurs 1:00 pm. Year round.

Texas Hold’ Em (QCR) Contact: Randy Rickert, 602524-2503 . Monday, 1:00 p.m. & Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round

OTHER CARD AND GAME GROUPS

Bunco (CLR) Contact: Laura Krever, 310-916-8105 or Dana Bourque, 602-757-4348 . 1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Year-round.

Cribbage (QCR) Contact Don Newman, 402-578-2743 Wednesday and Friday, 1:00 p.m. Year-round.

Euchre (APA) Contact Ted Jackson, 518-248-2052 Tuesday, 6:45 p.m. Oct – April.

Game Night (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-2936 Every Friday, 6:00 pm. Year-round.

Hand and Foot Progressive: (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. Year-round.

Hand and Foot: Samba (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mah Jongg Madness (LC) Contact: Jan Biddle, 303-8817808. Monday, 12:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mah Jongg (APA) Contact: Neesa Galanti, 206-356-2727. Tuesday 7:00 pm and Thursday 1:00 p.m. Year-round.

Pinochle (QCR) Contact: Jackie Anderson, 480-9858503 . Summer: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m. Winter: only Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.

Scrabble (LC) Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626 Monday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mexican Train/Dominos (LC) Contact: Theresa Cuocci Wednesdays, 12:00 a.m. Year-round.

served at the break. Water, ice, lemonade, coffee, popcorn, and pretzels. Play starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. Players may arrive at 6:00 p.m. to purchase onsets.

LW Bingo is for Residents and their guests 18 years of age and older. Our bingo games are for recreational play and not open to the public. The State does not allow alcohol to be present or consumed during our recreational Bingo games.

Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Game starts at 7:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom

Polish Poker

As the temps warm up, we are still having a fun time in the air-conditioned clubroom on the last Monday of the month for a fun night of low skill, high socializing, and easy to learn fun playing Polish Poker. $3.00 gets you in and an entry into the 50/50 drawing.

So, join us on the last Monday of the month at 6 pm in the Club Room.

George Miller Manor 1625

774-275-4009

MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS

Music and Dance Events Schedule

Ballroom Dance Classes - Contact: Bill Goss, 480275-4647

Pop Country Line Dance Contact: Susan Tuttle, 602329-2213.

Music Makers - Tuesday afternoons in the Rec. 2 Music Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. NovemberMay

Ukulele Practice Group - Contact: Mary Smith, 480288-1423.

Like to play the ukulele or always wanted to learn? Come and join up with others who love to play this amazing instrument.

Casual-Aires Dance Club

Submitted by Allen Cziok

The Casual-Aires Dance Club invites you to join our group if you enjoy listening and dancing to Rock-andRoll and Country music. We organize four parties per year in November, January, February, and March using the Hopi - Pima ballroom at Leisure World’s Recreation Center #2. Each evening begins with bring-yourown cocktails followed by a catered sit-down dinner as the live band begins the evening’s entertainment. After dinner the lights go down, the band picks up the tempo, and everyone gets serious about having a really fun time. A casual dress code sets the tone for fun-filled evenings visiting and dancing with old and new friends. The cost of membership is only $330 per couple or $165 for an individual. You can also try us out by attending any one of our events for $55 per person or $110 per couple. Watch for announcements of each of our dances in the Leisure World News, Leisure World Post, or on community video displays. For more information, please contact Anne and Bill Daley, our membership team, at our club email address casualairesmembership@gmail.com.

Leisure World Cloggers

Submitted by Joyce Loland

The Leisure World Cloggers continue dancing throughout the summer even without their winter visitor friends. It may be hot outside, but the cloggers’ classroom next to the Fitness Center is always airconditioned and comfortable. Clogging is offered as a class through the Fitness Center every Friday afternoon from 11:45 to 2:45. Beginners start at 11:45 and

the difficulty increases to Intermediate Plus by 2:45. Instructors Dan Rowan and Cathy Martin teach by building on previously learned steps and dances and gradually adding new ones. Remember that Beginners get their first class free! Just ask an instructor for the coupon. Register in the Fitness Center at $30 per month or pay a $5 per hour drop in fee whenever you can come. Some insurance companies cover the cost through Silver Sneakers, Silver and Fit, or Renew Active.

Clogging is a terrific way to stay active in the summer. The music is lively and varied, the cloggers and instructors are friendly and supportive, and you get a truly fun way to exercise both your body and brain. Everyone is welcome.

Moonlight Serenade Dance Club

Submitted by Mary Cartner

They say every age has a legend. Could it be said then, that the Big Band sound was a legend of its time? If so, come believe and live the legend of that era and experience its glamour and style for an evening.

November 15th, 2025, MSDC marks the kickoff dance of our 26th continuous season featuring music of the 40’s and 50’s by Swing Memories. Dress in your finest and enjoy an evening of legendary elegance. Membership per couple is a deal at $320 which includes 4 dinner dances. Consider gifting a couple at $110 for that perfect holiday gift for someone special.

Club concerns: survival of dance clubs depends on its volunteers. If you can help, try it at least once. Shortterm projects to fit your interests and schedule are available.

Visit the MSDC website: https://moonlightserenade. yolasite.com.

SPORTS CLUBS

For information on membership contact: joyk3048@ gmail.com; or Jerry: jerrymundell45@gmail.com

Shall We Round Dance Club

Submitted by Kaye West

Dancers are saddened to learn of the passing in June of Kay Read. Excellent choreography by Kay and Joy continue to be enjoyed at round dance events!

Though Mesa round dancers scatter during summer months, many will meet in July at the International Choreographed Ballroom Dance Association (ICBDA) Convention in Springdale, Arkansas. Three halls, with clinics, new dance routines with much practice for them, and evening dancing for three levels of dancers (beginner/low intermediate, intermediate, and advanced) will be enjoyed for four days. Local cuers, Bill and Carol Goss and George and Pam Hurd, are among featured teachers! (Next year’s convention will be within driving distance!)

Lee Boyle alerts us of round dance opportunities in the Valley at rounddancing.azphx.com. Besides prerounds/rounds between tips at Valley Squares (Mondays) and Checkmates (Wednesdays), dancers can also enjoy round dancing at the annual Cool Mountain Fling (July 17-20) in Show Low (928242-5313). Articles for improving round dancing are available at home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/wi-do. html

Other July travel destinations to festivals and conventions are available in Australia, Arkansas, Louisiana, Maryland, and Minnesota!

Locally, enjoy social dancing in Leisure World (July 4) and the Red Mountain Senior Center (Wednesdays 1-3).

Leisure World Gun Club News

Submitted by C. Cottrell.

“Mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun”. But not members of Leisure World Gun Club. We’re smarter than that-- especially in Arizona in July! All our sporting activities take place well before noon.

Please feel free to join us at any of our following monthly events which are held at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club located at the Usery Pass Shooting Range, 3560 Usery Pass Rd., Mesa.

• RIMFIRE PISTOL - Wednesday, July 9th. . Meet at the Pistol Bay #2 at 7:00 a.m.

• SPORTING CLAYS- Thursdays- July 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th and 31st. Please meet at the Shotgun Parking Lot at 6:45 a.m. and Ready to shoot at 7:00 a.m.

•PRACTICAL PISTOL - Friday - July 25th. Meet at the Practical Pistol Bay #2 at 7 a.m.

Our monthly luncheon is the last Monday, July 28th. Please be at the Cozy Corner Cafe parking lot by 11:45 a.m. All are welcome to come and break bread with us. The cafe is located at 5901 McKellips St., corner of Recker Rd.

For any additional information, please contact Cherie Lauro, LWGC Vice President at cherielauro1@gmail.com. Monday/Wednesday/Friday, 6:55 a.m., Rec. 1 Ballroom.

Mesa dancers look forward to dancing together again at their National Convention.

ARTS & CRAFTS CLUBS

Arts & Crafts Meetings and Classes Schedule

DECORATIVE ARTS

Art Assoc. – (AS) Contact: Billie Klaus, 970-231-4845

Open Studio: Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Jewelry and Lapidary (LAP) Contact: Dan Coulombe 479715-5826.

Photography Club (AS) Contact: Bob Bennett, 480-250-7127

Rubber Stamping (CER/SG) Contact: Mickey Dent, 480634-4574, Mon 6 p.m -8p.m. Summer every 3rd Thurs 6p-8p

FIBER ARTS

Knitters & Crocheters Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-6414626 – Fridays 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. All interested knitters, beginners to experienced, join in. We teach beginners and help those who are having difficulty with a pattern, No charge.

Open Sewing Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626 Open to all residents who do hand sewing.

Pillowcase Dresses Contact: Darlene Footh, 701-3398491. Make little girls’ dresses out of pillowcases for charity.

Quilters Contact: Judy Kauth, 757-651-5648 – Tuesdays are open swing , Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Join us for group projects, speakers, demos, field trips and more. Donations are made to multi-generational groups.

Twiddlers: Mondays 9:00 a.m. – 11 a.m. Fiber Arts Room

Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626. Any handwork done with a needle or needles, i.e., knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needle point and applique.

FIRED ARTS

Ceramics (CER/SG) CERAMICS CLUB

No skills, low skills, or higher skills come one, come all! We have several supplies and pieces to get you started .Come on in and get those inner creative juices running.

Total relaxation.

Come join us or take a look on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. –11:30 a.m.

Call: Linda Derback (President) at 303-913-2066 or

Cheryl Lamers (VP) at 973-262-1898.

Porcelain Painting (POT) Contact: Edie Pearcy, 480-7340685 or Ginger Merkle, 303-988-6420. No teacher. No lessons. Work on your own. A semi-annual fee of $5 for firing. All China painters are welcome.

Open Studio: Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Pottery (POT) Contact: Judy Cooley, 512-470-9456

Open Studio: Sunday, Tuesday, and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Open Studio: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday,12 - 10 p.m.

Firing & Unloading: Monday & Thursday

Class with instructor Larron Lerdall: Monday & Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

GLASS PROGRAM

Glass Arts (CER/SG) Contact: Gail Bowers 480-577-6677.

Open Studio: Monday & Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Ongoing Classes for new artists

Porcelain Art

We welcome anyone in Leisure World to join us in this ancient art form. We call it China Painting.

We have many porcelain pieces and paints available at no charge. Although we do not have a teacher, we will help you with instructions on getting started. We have lots of books with designs to use or change as you wish. It is fun to see all the beautiful pieces you can make. All at no cost to you.

We meet on Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 1PM to 4 PM in the Art Building. Call Edie Pearcy 480-734-0685.

By Steve Becker

The Safety Factor

Although bidding methods have vastly improved since contract bridge was introduced in 1925, comparatively little additional progress has been made in the play of the cards. This is largely because, during the two or three centuries when auction bridge and whist -- the predecessors of contract bridge -- were played, a high level of skill had already been achieved in this area.

For example, take this deal from the 1936 Bridge Olympics, which used prearranged “par” hands to determine the outcome. The salient point of the play is just as valid now as it was then.

West leads three rounds of diamonds, declarer ruffing the third. South must now draw trump, but when he leads a low spade at trick four and West follows low, he should play dummy’s eight! If he doesn’t, he will sooner or later have to lose two trump tricks and go down one.

The obvious purpose of the deal was to test South’s knowledge of safety plays. In the given case, it was incumbent upon South to realize that the only threat to his contract was a 4-0 trump division, with West holding the four spades. If that situation existed, South could virtually guarantee getting home safely by leading a spade to the eight at trick four.

It is true that when four cards of a suit are missing, they will divide 4-0 only about one-tenth of the time. Nevertheless, a cautious declarer should take any step necessary to protect himself against this possibility.

SPORTS QUIZ CONTRACT BRIDGE

By Ryan A. Berenz

1. What ice sport, popular in Russia and Scandinavia, is played with a ball instead of a puck and has rules similar to soccer?

2. Name the sisters who played basketball for the Stanford Cardinal and were the No. 1 overall picks in the WNBA Draft in 2012 and 2014.

3. On the TV sitcom “Seinfeld,” what member of the New York Mets did Newman (Wayne Knight) heckle outside Shea Stadium after a June 14, 1987, loss to the Philadelphia Phillies?

4. American athlete Valarie Allman won gold medals at the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Summer Olympics competing in what track and field event?

5. What NASCAR driver, winner of 20 Cup Series races from 1950-71, died after

Even though the safety play might frequently cost South a trick, he should be willing to pay that small premium, since making the contract is always the first consideration.

suffering a seizure and crashing during an Easter 1972 late model race at North Carolina’s Metrolina Fairgrounds?

6. Name the Dallas Cowboys defensive end who took the 1979 NFL season off to pursue a pro boxing career before returning to the Cowboys in 1980.

7. They purchased the Buffalo Bills NFL franchise in 2014. Their daughter Jessica reached the finals at the 2024 U.S. Open tennis tournament. Who are they?

Answers

1. Bandy.

2. Nneka (2012) and Chiney (2014) Ogwumike.

3. Keith Hernandez.

4. Discus throw.

5. Speedy Thompson.

6. Ed “Too Tall” Jones.

7. Terry and Kim Pegula. (c) 2025 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

HERE'S A TIP

By JoAnn Derson

• The best way to get a bloodstain out of clothing is by dousing the stain with hydrogen peroxide and washing as usual. For clay stains, you absolutely must have a Fels-Naptha bar. It looks like a bar of soap, and you wet the material and rub in the soap. It’s magical. This, coming from a softball mom whose daughter loves to slide. -- A.A. in Florida

• Add these to the list of items to eliminate the odor of cooking cabbage: a heel of bread, a whole walnut, or a pinch of baking soda.

• It’s easy to make your own spreadable butter. Simply whip 1 pound of softened butter and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Slowly add 1 cup of olive oil. Beat up to 5 minutes to add air and increase volume. Pour into two 1-pint containers and refrigerate. It’s economical, spreads like soft margarine, tastes great and you get the benefits of olive oil in a natural product.

• “Before I go to the beach, I freeze an ice-cube tray full of lemonade. Then, we use the cubes in our travel cups. It keeps the lemonade cool, and as it melts (which tends to be quickly), it doesn’t water down the drink.” -- K.H. in South Carolina

• To save money on electricity costs, hang jeans and other heavy clothing to dry first. White or light towels and garments especially love the sun. When it is mostly dry, pop it in the dryer to fluff.

• When sales are running on children’s clothing, it might be a good idea to buy a size up. Sometimes, I buy up to a year in advance for my kids if the deals are really good. Just be sure that the clothing is the right season when your child will be able to wear it. --M. from New Mexico

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Smoothie Prep 101: Healthy Smoothies for Summer Mornings

By Patti Diamond

Photo: Jackson Coblentz

As summer kicks in, it’s easy to get a little too relaxed with our routine. The mornings are slower, the kids are home, and breakfast sometimes ends up being a “whatever is easiest” grab.

But just because it’s summer, doesn’t mean your body should get a vacation from good nutrition. Let’s make something as easy as toaster pastries but that packs a wallop of goodness -- and tastes delicious, too! Smoothie packs! Plus, these smoothies save you a ton of money compared with prepared breakfast foods, and they make the perfect snack or pick-me-up between activities.

Smoothies check all the boxes: Healthy? Absolutely. They’re packed with nutrients to fuel your day. Ready and quick when you want one? Yep, just pop it in the blender and blend away! Customizable to suit any taste or dietary need? You got it. Lasts forever in the freezer? You bet.

Just spend 30 minutes every couple of weeks assembling a stash for the freezer, and boom -breakfast practically makes itself.

Start with some building blocks from the list below, then here’s the formula for each 2-cup smoothie: In a quart-size freezer bag, combine 1 cup fruit, a handful of greens and about 1/2 cup of mix-ins (see ideas below). Squeeze out the air, seal, and freeze flat.

Smoothie Building Blocks:

• Fruits: bananas, berries, pears, apples, peaches, melons, pineapple

• Veggies and Greens: spinach, kale, chard, cucumber,

cooked carrots or beets

• Healthy Fats and Protein: nut butter, yogurt, oats, chia, flax, protein powder, tofu

• Flavor Boosters: dates, ginger, vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, honey, coconut

• Oats

Mix it up to keep it fun; variety keeps things interesting without adding much cost.

Wait. What? Oats? In smoothies? Yes! Adding oats to your smoothie is a smart (and budget-friendly) way to boost nutrition and stay fuller longer. They’re packed with resistant starch and soluble fiber, which help keep blood sugar steady and cravings in check. That fiber also acts as a prebiotic, giving your gut the good stuff it needs to stay happy. Plus, oats add a creamy texture and mild flavor that blends beautifully with just about anything you toss in.

When you’re ready to blend, just dump the contents into your blender, add your liquid (milk -- dairy or plant-based, coconut water, juice, kefir), and blend away!

Strawberry Kiwi Smoothie

Yield: 1 serving

Total Time: 5 minutes

1 cup mixed frozen strawberry kiwi blend OR 1/2 cup each strawberry and kiwi

1 banana sliced and frozen 1/2 cup spinach leaves, loosely packed 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats or quick-cooking oats

1 cup kefir OR 1/2 cup plain yogurt + 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy beverage

1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Place the fruit, spinach, and oats in your blender, add kefir and vanilla, then blend until smooth. Enjoy it immediately.

Want to give your smoothie a serious upgrade? Try Nutrition Bombs -- my fun name for frozen cubes packed with good-for-you ingredients like protein powder, oats, chia, hemp hearts, flaxseed, spinach and coconut water. Just toss one into your blender for an easy boost of nutrition, no extra effort needed. Get all the details on how to make your own at divasonadime. com/nutrition-bombs-for-smoothies.

Prep now and your blender (and your future self) will thank you. Start your day right with a homemade smoothie that’s easy on time, budget-friendly, and packed with nutrition.

Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime -- Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com (c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

efficiently.

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

PlumbSmart Heating and Air Conditioning - Free service calls + Free A/C diagnostic w/ repair. BBB A+Rated NATE-Certified technicians and quality affordable HVAC service. Seasonal discounts on furnace and AC tune-ups. Senior & Vet discounts, 3-Ton AC unit only $4,995 including installation. Voted Best of East Valley in 2021. Licensed, bonded & insured ROC289252. Call 480-498-8896.

ASSISTED LIVING HELP

Do you need help navigating senior living options? A free service for seniors!

Trusted and highly vetted experts can help you find your best options for independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Call Corrie Shirey with The Senior Solution Group 480-942-9027

BLINDS & SCREENING

Shine Valley Screen & Awning

Sunscreens, patio & screen rooms, security/screen doors, retractable awnings, patio roll curtains, window awnings, wood shutters, rain gutters and alum. pergola. Free estimates. 480612-1012, bonded & insured, license ROC#274491.

CAREGIVERS

Marcie’s Home Care LLC

In Home Senior Care

• Companionship

• Meal preparation

• Medication reminders

• Errands-shopping-appointments

• Light housekeeping

• Respite care

Caregivers:

• CPR certified

• Fingerprint card

• TB tested Marcieshomecare.com (480) 714-4043

TLC Cleaning Services One call cleans it all! Professional housekeeper available weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. 10 years’ experience for dependable, thorough & customizable cleans. Call today 480-529-1600 Serving the East Valley.

Companionship Care Assistant: Basic Services $65 per Day

• Visit up to 2 hrs.

• Run errands up to .6 miles.

• Prepare meals.

• Appointment setter.

• Doctor visits.

• Communicate with family members

Special services

• Light housekeeping – extra fee

• Notary service from 8am – 8pm weekly Call Serena 480 232-6613.

Adult care

Full or part-time

Available: day, evening or overnight

Excellent References

Call or text: 480-529-0760

Email: alicebest712@gmail.com

Caregiver/Companion

Years of experience, good references, flexible hours day or night. Also, light cooking, light cleaning, doctors appt, and errands. Call Donna 480-493-7574

Dovely Touch

Elderly Home Care For all Your Special Needs! Doctor visits, light cleaning, 25 years of experience, and CPR First Aid. Call Cassy (480) 468-0431

AJ Electric Co. LLC. Family owned and operated. Residential, Commercial Licensed Electrician. ROC #321474. Bonded & Insured. Comparative rates. New installs, Breaker upgrade, outlets/ switches changed, ceiling fans and lighting fixtures installed, and all electrical repairs. Call A.J. Electric LLC 480-721-9087.

GARAGE DOOR SERVICE

My Garage Guys Door Service Senior Discounts, Veteran Owned 480-336-0880

Always Open Garage Door Garage Door Repairs Free Service Calls. $20 Off Any Repair. LW Repair Specialist. LIC# ROC 182785 Bonded/Insured. 480-703-9963.

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Eddie's Toolbox - Small Job Handyman. Leisure World Resident. Picture Hanging, Bicycle Repair, Car Waxing, Grab Bar Installation, Assembly, Headlight Restoration, Lamp Repair, Minor Electrical, Miscellaneous. Call/Text Ed 480-390-2091

I FIXIT REMODELING & HANDYMAN SERVICE

• Kitchen/Bath Remodels

• Plumbing

• Electric

• Painting

• Drywall

• Honey Do List TODD LACHOWICZ

Over 28yrs Experience (480) 875-8282

If you can think it, I can do it

Space Available!

Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-8320000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today.

CLASSIFIED AD INFO: $50 for 30 words or less, 25 cents per word over 30. Add a border for $10.

DEADLINE is the 15th of the month for the following month’s publication.

For more information please email eramos@lwca.com.

FORMS are also available in the LW News Office.

For more information, call 480-832-0000

Veracity Worx LLC Experienced Handyman. Appliance installation, light fixture or ceiling fan install, drywall repairs, kitchen back splash installations, plumbing, minor electrical repairs and many more! Call or text Axel at 352-304-2330. axel.malpica1@ gmail.com

Space Available!

Don' t miss this chance to connect with customers. Things don't have to slow down for the summer. Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-832-0000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Celebrate “The Beauty of you” with Mary Kay. Mary Kay products offer you so many ways to enhance your beauty and well-being. Innovation skin care! On-trend color! Pampering bath and body products and so much more! Great products for the guys, too! Let’s find your favorites. Check out my website MaryKay.com/penemathisonmk4u or email penemathison@gmail.com. Call or text Pene Mathison at 253-3805848.

G+M Neighborhood Barbershop Open 7 Days 6515 E. Main St #123 Mesa, AZ Specializing In Haircuts For Men And Boys Beard Trims And Shaves TUES – SAT 9AM – 6:30 PM SUN – MON 11 AM – 5 PM Haircuts $16.00 480-924-5053

MEET YOUR FRIENDLY LEISURE WORLD

AVON REPRESENTATIVE, Bonnie Ragsdale, for all of your AVON needs. Call 480-241-3770 or email avon0498@yahoo.com.

HOME REPAIR & REMODELING

KTS Tile & Stone Ken Thompson

Tile installation, repairs, L.V.T. Floors, showers, decks & walways, & custom works.

LICENSED/BONDED Call Ken @ 602-751-0033

Facelifts 4 Homes. Since 1986 Rob Stalp has been remodeling in LWFamily Business Honest And Dependable Renovations-Remodeling-Room Additions-Kitchens-Bathrooms Drywall-Painting-Skylights-RoofingTile-Laminate-Granite-Quartz Countertops -Cabinets-Trim-BaseCrown-Doors-Windows- Custom Showers Lic 297942 Bonded Insured Call or Text Rob Stalp 480-703-5637 Good Things Happen When You Call!

DZO Remodeling LLC

No project too big or too small. We do Plumbing, Drywall, Painting, Bathroom/ Kitchen/Flooring Remodels, Roofing, Concrete and much more! Let me finish your to-do list! 12+ years’ experience! ROC 343814 Licensed, Bonded and Insured! Call or text Victor 480-543-8879.

Home Remodeling and Rain Gutter Specialist. AZ Rooms, Dual Pane Replacement Windows, Aluminum & Vinyl Siding & Trim Seamless Rain gutters-30 colors. Very reliable-Licensed & Bonded. ROC #114475 Call George 480-820-8711. We love small jobs.

Rapid Restoration & Construction

24 Hour Emergency Service

- Remodels & Additions

- Emergency Temp Repairs

- Flooring Installation

- 24 Hour Board-Up

- Kitchen & Bath Remodels

- Mold Remediation

- Cabinet Install & Repair/Rebuild

- Fire Restoration

- Structural Repairs

- Water Extraction

- Plumbing Services 480-662-8146

www.rapidrestoreaz.com

HOME SERVICES

*WALK-IN SHOWER

*FLOORING

*PAINTING

*WINDOW & DOOR

*DRYWALL & TEXTER

*ROOM ADDITIONS

*PATIO ENCLOSURES

*AZ ROOMS

*STUCCO

*CONCRETE & PAVERS

*BLOCK FENCE

*FRAMING

*PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL CALL RICKY. 602-319-7280

WWW.RZFLOORBATHCOVERING.COM

HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES

Alanna's Housekeeping “Let me take the work off your hands”. I’ll get to those hard-to-reach places! Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, move out, move ins. Call Alanna, 480-720-0101

Trusted House Cleaning Services Clean By Design Friendly, caring, insured, background check.

Let me Bless you with a house cleaning! Great rates! Call Julie 503-367-5904

HOUSE RENTALS

RENTAL WANTED

Non-smoking snowbirds (no pets) looking for winter 2026 rental. A 3-month term from January 10th to April 2026 is preferred. Call or text Dennis at (587) 229-9161 or email d.j.olson@icloud.com.

Space Available!

Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-8320000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today.

LANDSCAPING

Designing Arizona Landscape

www.designingaz.com Specializing in complete desert landscape and sprinkler install/repair, trimming, blowing, removal, rock, lighting. Low Prices for Seniors. A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau. Perfect record with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Arizona License #243110. Bonded & Insured. Free estimates: 480-380-9966.

ALTOGETHER Landscaping LLC family-owned business provides: * Lawn Mowing

* Bush/Tree Trimming

* Sprinkler Install/Repair

* Plant/Tree Installation

* Paver Installation

* Free Estimates

** Call us @ 480-331-9144 ** www.altogetherlandscaping.com

CLASSIFIEDS

July AZ Landscaping Taking care of your projects for 15 years! Irrigation, tree trimming, Desertscapes, maintenance, Gravel, pavers, wall and turf installation. Call Julio Meneses at 480-386-3954 Free Estimates.

15% SENIOR DISCOUNT,

Raul’s Clean-Up & Tree Services. Yard Clean-Up, Tree Topping & Pruning, Trash Removal, Spread Rock, Trimming or Removal, Free Estimates, Affordable Rates. ALL WORK GUARANTEED, PLEASE CALL RAUL (480) 553-4285. WE ARE INSURED.

OTHER

Don’t want the hassle of selling! I buy all makes and models. Cars, RV’s, Golf Carts, etc. Forty years of buying experience. Honest and dependable Call or email Rickie today. 480-450-4064 or rickietrainor@gmail.com

PAINTING

AKP Services is now offering RESIDENTIAL PAINTING in LEISURE WORLD. We will handle all stucco, siding, and drywall repairs. We have been serving the valley for 20+ years. 480.910.5181 – See the GAMES page for more info.

PEST CONTROL

Spartan Pest Control Pest. Weed. Termite Veteran Owned 480-853-3811

PLUMBING

RWB PLUMBING Quality work at affordable prices. Licensed/Bonded/ Insured. Complete Plumbing Service. Re-pipes, toilets, faucets, water heaters, gas lines, faucets, garbage disposals, water services. Senior and Veteran discounts. Visit rwbplumbingusa.com for valuable discounts. When hiring a contractor, always check with the Registrar of Contractors to ensure proper Licensing. We have referrals we are happy to provide. Call 480-332-1457. ROC# 178767.

Aqua Tech Plumbing & Drain Senior & Military Discounts ask for David! Over 25 years of experience, drain cleaning, R/O systems, fixtures, water heaters, toilets, water softeners, sewer line locating, leak repairs, slab leaks, repipes, sewer repairs, and much more. Call David 480-507-3335 or 480-2266795 ROC # 228747

PlumbSmart Plumbing ServicesFree estimates - no trip charge! $49 drain cleaning, $99 sewer camera inspection, $189 garbage disposal includes installation. Low-cost toilet replacement, water heaters, softeners and reverse osmosis systems. Whole house re-pipe special, seasonal discounts on furnace and AC tuneups. Affordable full service plumbing, heating and air-conditioning services. Voted #1 Mesa Plumber and Best East Valley Plumber three years in a row. Senior & Vet discounts. Licensed, bonded & insured ROC223709. Call 480-4988896.

Your Ad Here!

Connect with new customers. Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-832-0000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today.

East Valley Plumbing LLC Family Owned and Operated, we have been providing Customers with Quality Service with Integrity for over 30 years. We are East Valley’s Slab Leak Specialist working with most Homeowner Insurance Companies to get maximum benefits for the Customer. We do re-pipes & reroutes, sewer & drain cleaning, garbage disposals, trenchless excavation, natural gas & propane piping, toilets, water heaters, softeners, faucets & fixtures, leaks, water service and sewer repair & replacement, valves, remodeling. Free estimates & competitive pricing. Senior & cash pay discounts. Call 480-2557325. Licensed, bonded, insured.

Stay Cool & Dry – With Full Services HVAC and Plumbing Installations/Upgrades/Maintenance/ Repairs

ACW Mechanical LLC’s Expert Techs are Ready to Help (480) 735-4447 or (949) 235-3877

No trip charge Senior Discount Available!

ROOFING

Geo Roofing Maintenance, Repairs, Replacements

Coating, Foam, Shingle, Tile Dealer Direct Pricing No Salesman, Owner Direct ! Cell/text Mike 480-239-4297 Mike@geoaz.com www.geoaz.com

Caruso’s Roofing and Coating. Tile Roof Repairs, Flat Roof Repairs, Skylights and Elastomeric Roof Coatings. Family Owned and Operated. No Job Too Small! FREE ESTIMATES! Call Josh at Caruso’s Roofing & Coating 480-200-7156. ROC #261628.

Space Available

Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-8320000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space. Meet new customers today!

SPRINKLER / IRRIGATION REPAIR

& INSTALLATION

Designing Arizona Landscape

Specializing in all phases of Sprinkler Repair, PVC, Drip Systems, Trouble Shooting. Low prices for Seniors. A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau. Prefect record with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Arizona License #243110. Bonded & Insured. Free Estimates: 480-380-9966

I Repair Sprinklers Full-Service Sprinkler Repair & Installation. Specializing in all aspects of sprinkler and drip system repair and installation. Timers, valves, leaks, backflow devices, troubleshooting, etc. Licensed, bonded & insured for your protection, 2-year warranties. Guaranteed lowest priced licensed contractor. Flawless ROC record #243662. Call Mike Smith at 480-233-1009 or schedule online at www.iRepairSprinklers.com.

TAX SERVICE

Kenneth A. Weinstock, CPASpecializing in taxes. Personal and business. Convenient personal service. Multi-state and Canadian returns. Tax planning, IRS audits. Leisure World resident. 480-687-3234.

ASTROLOGY

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Although you don’t like to change plans once they’re set, once again, you might find that doing so can make a big difference in your favor. Meanwhile, family matters dominate the weekend.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You continue to get encouragement for your proposals, including some support from unlikely sources. Use this positive flow to move forward with your plans. Good luck!

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Family matters are dominant this week. It’s a good time to be with those you love. It’s also a good time to contact and reunite with loved ones with whom you’ve lost touch.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Be careful not to allow differences of opinion to create unpleasant feelings, especially in the workplace. A neutral observer could check out the situation and suggest a resolution.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) While the Lion’s Den is the center of attention this week with family matters dominating much of your time, workplace issues are also important. Try to find a balance between them.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) The future of a new relationship could depend on how much the usually impatient-to-getthings-done VIRGO is willing to stop pushing and let things happen naturally.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Worry over a loved one’s well-being is eased with good news from a sympathetic source. Your continued show of love and support is important. Stay with it.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) This is a good time to consider mending fences with someone you wish was back in your life. Forget about blame and focus on the good things you once shared.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) This is a good week to start researching

information regarding whatever changes you’re considering, whether it involves a new home, a new location, or a new job.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A long-anticipated job opportunity could turn out to be less than you expected, but appearances might be deceiving. Check it out before you decide it’s not for you.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) Good news! Adapting to a new situation might come more easily than you expected. You can look for continued support from colleagues who appreciate your contributions.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Someone you care for might need more reassurance from the typically “unemotional” PISCES. Go ahead. Open up, and you might be surprised at what you find when you do.

BORN THIS MONTH: You are a romantic at heart, although you can be amazingly practical when you need to be. Many might consider you a great shoulder to lean on.

(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.

Classic Maze

SUPER CROSSWORD

Regression Analysis

Tattered garb

Slush Puppie alternative

Prehistoric beast, in brief

-- Majesty

Kind of PC screen

Comic punch response

Devoid of joy

Indoor design

China pieces 98 Cover again, as a gift 99 In recent days

Diagnostic med. image 104 Lawmen Wyatt and Virgil

Use as a bed

Confuse

Attach with string, e.g.

COMICS

By Jeff Pickering

Just Like Cats & Dogs By

The Spats

Out on a Limb

By Gary Kopervas

Dave T. Phipps

© 2025 by King Features Syndicate, Inc. World Rights Reserved.

Grin and Bear It

By Fred Wagner

“I thought it was one of those cars that parks itself."

Tiger

By Bud Blake