The speed limit on Leisure World Blvd is 25 mph. Please be respectful of your neighbors while driving.
THE OFFICIAL NEWS PUBLICATION OF LEISURE WORLD ARIZONA
CONTACTING LEISURE WORLD
Leisure World sta 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.
Main Number: 480-832-0000
Administration Reception Ext. 101 reception@lwca.com
Desert Mountain Primary Care
LW On-Site Office
480-741-8041
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
Paul
Memorialize Your Pet
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
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 nance o ce, then bring your plaque and Finance receipt to the Facilities o ce. plaques will be installed on a monthly basis. 4" x 2" metal plaques are $12 each. ere 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.
Contributing Writers: Sue De Carlo, Larry Caves, Mary Ellen doValle, C. Barry Ingerson, Dr. Carol S. Kessler PhD, Sherry Rinddels-Larsen Ken Weinstock, and Kaye 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: 10th of month submitted to news@lwca.com
No Board and District Meetings for Summer
Board and district meetings will resume in October.
Stories that Show: You Don’t Just Take--You Give Back
e LW Nominating Committee (NC) adopted the slogan, “You don’t just take—you give back,” as a reminder that LW’s self-governance depends on the active participation of its residents. As part of its e ort to educate LW owners about the importance and realities of contributing to community governance, the NC is highlighting current and former residents who exemplify this spirit of service. is month, the NC interviewed Virgil Knapke, whose commitment to the community re ects the principle that you don’t just take—you give back.
Virgil Knapke is the current District 5 Chairperson. As Chairperson, he represents District 5 on the LWCA Board and currently serves as Board Treasurer. Virgil began his LWCA service in 2021 as a member of the LW Architectural Control Committee (ACC), which provides guidance to homeowners undertaking projects to improve their manors.
Why did you decide to get involved?
I felt I could contribute to the ACC because of my background in construction and home maintenance. I also wanted to better understand how LW works and meet more people. After the pandemic, integrating into LW had been di cult.
As the ACC representative, I interacted with many D5 residents, worked with LW Administration on various issues, and helped revise the ACC Manual. ough I had not planned to run for D5 Chair, persistent encouragement from D5 residents and others convinced me to do so.
Did you feel welcomed and supported when you first became involved?
Yes, both on the ACC and the LW Board of Directors (BOD) members were helpful in orienting me to the positions. New ACC members can partner with experienced members, and the LW Facilities O ce was always available for assistance.
e current BOD strives for consensus and collegiality, which is critical to its success. I have been able to build productive relationships with fellow Board members and the Community Manager, providing valuable insight into issues that come before the Board. e BOD also holds an annual retreat that includes presentations from legal, insurance, and HOA professionals who serve LW.
How much time did serving actually require compared to what you expected?
I had no preconceived notions about the time commitment. I estimate spending 15–20 hours per month during the fall and winter and 5–10 hours per month during the summer.
What skills or experiences did you gain through serving the LW community?
Although I had a career in corporate business and several entrepreneurial ventures, I enjoy continuing to learn through my volunteer roles. Observing and contributing to the operation of a large, diverse community like LW has been rewarding. I value the opportunity to listen to di erent perspectives and work with others to make informed decisions.
Was there a particular project or accomplishment you are especially proud of? What is the most rewarding part of serving?
e most important accomplishment during my
tenure has been gaining approval for increasing the Capital Contribution Fee. Many people worked hard to secure support for an initiative that now bene ts the entire community.
As Board Treasurer, I nd nance the most rewarding aspect of my service. It is an area where I have some corporate experience, so I especially enjoy my role in nancial planning and budgeting for the community.
What has been the most difficult part of holding office?
It can be di cult to advocate for strongly held positions that are unpopular with colleagues or residents, even when I believe they are in the community’s best interest. One example is charging user fees for certain amenities and activities for non-residents. While unpopular, such fees are common in many communities and could provide nancial bene ts to LW.
How has serving changed your perspective of the LW community? How did working with other residents and board members impact your experience?
Serving on the Board has given me a greater appreciation for the professionalism and capabilities of LW’s managers and employees. I have had positive experiences working with sta , fellow board members, district council members, and residents who have often thanked me for serving. at has been my reward.
What advice would you give to someone who feels hesitant or unqualified to run for office?
Feeling unquali ed is only one reason to hesitate. e most valuable trait for serving in o ce is being open to ideas and using your best judgment about what bene ts the community as a whole. If you can do that objectively, you are quali ed.
Some people worry about the time commitment, but in my experience it is manageable. While occasional issues require focused attention, the demands are not overwhelming.
Others may worry about dealing with dissatis ed residents. I have found that most people simply want to be heard and receive a reasonable explanation.
Volunteering or running for o ce is also an excellent way to meet people and help shape the future of the LW community.
If you could encourage every resident to do one thing to support self-governance, what would it be? Stay informed by paying attention to LW communications and asking questions when you want to know more.
I am continually surprised by how many people are unaware of important information that is readily available through LW emails, newsletters, the newspaper, and the LW website.
Virgil’s experience shows that giving back isn’t just an obligation, it’s an opportunity to shape the place you call home.
Now it’s your turn.
Take up the mantle of community service—not only for ourselves, but for future generations of LW residents—because we know: you don’t just take—you give back.
July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
All Leisure World residents are welcome to stop in any time on Wednesday mornings between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. We are here year-round in the club rooms at Rec 1, just east of the courtyard. Verna Mullen, Pat Watkins, Barbara Young, Jackie Anderson, Glen Waltenmath
Happy Birthday America!
Leisure World Wednesday Morning Co ee is open to all residents. e 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 Co ee and light snacks in the Clubroom at Rec.1 just across from the Courtyard, every Wednesday from 8:00 to 10:00 am.
Save e Date Community Chat
Join us this Summer for our casual Community Chat.
• Tuesday July 21st at 1:00 pm in Rec. 1 Ballroom
• Tuesday August 18th at 1:00 in Rec 1 Ballroom
The Chat will be available on live stream for our outof-town residents.
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. If you have a sel e or a headshot you would like us to use email it to reception@lwca.com 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.
Find George the President
George is hiding inside one of the three sections of the paper. To participate in this contest, see rules
below.
Rules:
Your email must be sent to news@lwca.com.
• George’s location must consist of the page number he was found on as well as the title of the article he is closest to.
• Gift certi cates are to be picked up in the Communication/ Recreation O ce.
• All correct answers will be collected by the 15th of each month and the winner will be chosen at random.
• ere will only be one winner per month.
Timeline of Important Events
1600s
1607 Jamestown Virginia becomes the first English Colony in America. 1619 The House of Burgesses, the first representative assembly in America, meets for the first time in Virginia.
1620 The Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts is established by Pilgrims from England. 1664 English Acquisition of New Amsterdam which is renamed to New York.
1700s
1920 18th Amendment enacted starting the Prohibition era.
1929 The Wall Street Crash starts the Great Depression.
1930 Dust Bowl devastates the Southern Plains.
1933 21st Amendment enacted, repealing the 18th Amendment, ending Prohibition.
1941 Pearl Harbor was attacked and the United States entered World War II.
1945 US drops two atomic bombs on Japan leading to the end of WWII.
1770 The Boston Massacre leads to public protests from colonists. 1773 The Boston Tea Party unites colonists against Britain.
1775 The Battle of Lexington and Concord launch the Revolutionary War.
1776 The Declaration of Independence is approved by colonies.
1783 Treaty of Paris signed ending the American Revolution.
1788 The Constitution is ratified.
1789 George Washington is elected as the first President of the United States.
1791 Bill of Rights becomes law.
1800s
1800 Washington D.C. becomes the U.S. Capital.
1803 The Louisiana Purchase doubles the size of the USA.
1804 Lewis and Clark start their mapping expedition of newly acquired western territory.
1841 Migration to the West Coast begins via the Oregon Trail.
1845 Republic of Texas was incorporated into the United States as the 28th state.
1846 The Mexican-American War begins.
1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed ending the Mexican-American War leaving vast SW territories to the U.S. & CA Gold Rush begins.
1846 The Oregon Treaty with Great Britain secured Pacific NW territories.
1861 The American Civil War starts at Fort Sumter.
1865 The Civil War ended and slavery was abolished with the 13th Amendment.
1865 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, assassinated at Ford Theater.
1869 First Transcontinental Railroad was completed at Promontory Summit.
United States celebrated its centennial anniversary.
1900s
1912 Arizona was admitted to the Union as the 48th state.
1917 The United States enter World War I.
1919 Treaty of Versailles is signed formally ending WWI.
1920 The Nineteenth Amendment is ratified giving women the right to vote.
1947 Beginning of the Cold War with the Soviet Union.
1950 US enters the Korean War.
1953 Korean Armistice Agreement signed halting the Korean War.
1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, leaders of the U.S. and the Soviet Union engaged in a tense, 13-day political and military standoff.
1963 35th President, John F. Kennedy, assassinated in Dallas Texas.
1964 The Civil Rights Act becomes law.
1965 US enters the Vietnam War at Da Nang.
1969 United States successfully landed humans on the Moon, NASA Apollo 11.
1972 Watergate Scandal begins after break-in at the Democratic Parties headquarters.
1973 The Vietnam Ceasefire Agreement is signed.
1973 Leisure World Arizona is established.
1976 Bicentennial celebration of Americas independence.
1986 Space Shuttle Challenger had a failed and fatal launch.
1990 Hubble Telescopewaslaunched aboard Space Shuttle Discovery’s STS31 mission.
1991 End of the Cold War.
1998 Leisure World Arizona celebrated 25 years.
2001 Terrorist attack at the World Trade Center. 2003 United States begins the Iraq War. 2007 The Great Recession.
2011 United States formally ended its military involvement in the Iraq War.
2020 Covid-19 Pandemic begins.
2023 Leisure World Arizona celebrated 50 years. 2026 America turns 250 years old!
Smoke billows from the Twin Towers of the World Trade
in New York City after the September 11, 2001 attacks by by rds323. Creative Commons CC0 1.0
“Landing of the Pilgrims", (1848 CE) by Charles Lucy (1814–1873 CE). From The White House Historical Association.
Mural of George Washington taking the oath of office in 1789 by Allyn Cox. Architect of the Capitol photograph.
Oxen teams pulling covered wagons by John Grabill. Wikipedia.
"Battle of Wilson's Creek." Kurz and Allison Collection 1893. Courtesy Missouri History Museum.
The Dust Bowl. Mmakki, CC BYSA 3.0. Wikimedia Commons.
Martin Luther King Jr. during the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Rowland Scherman. Creative Commons.
West and East Germans at the Brandenburg Gate in 1989 by Lear 21 at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0.
Prohibition Parade Float in Hawkinsville, Georgia, circa 1919. Courtesy of Georgia Archives.
US soldiers in Vietnam. Credit: pixabay. com, Picryl.com
Center
United States Semiquincentennial
Leisure World, the United States of America marks an extraordinary milestone: its 250th birthday. Two and a half centuries ago, on July 4, 1776, a group of courageous visionaries gathered in Philadelphia to sign the Declaration of Independence. With that single, bold act, they risked everything to birth a new nation founded on a revolutionary idea—that all people are created equal, endowed with the unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
What began as an initial experiment in democracy by thirteen coastal colonies has grown into a vast, diverse nation stretching from ocean to ocean. Over 250 years,
America at 250
the American story has been one of resilience, triumph, and constant reinvention. We have endured civil war, overcome deep economic depressions, championed global freedom, and pushed the boundaries of human innovation from the assembly line to technology.
America’s greatest strength is its people. is Semi quincentennial is a celebration of the generations of citizens—farmers, immigrants, factory workers, teachers, and dreamers—who built this country brick by brick. It is a tribute to the everyday heroes who continue to breathe life into our democratic ideals.
A 250th anniversary is not just a time to look back with pride; it is a moment to look forward with purpose. Democracy is not a nished monument, but a living project. We are a nation still striving to form a “more perfect union,” continually working to ensure
that the promises of 1776 apply fully and equally to every single American.
As reworks illuminate the skies from city to city on the 4th of July, let us renew our commitment to one another and to the timeless principles of freedom and justice.
Happy 250th Birthday, America. May the next chapter of our great experiment be our brightest yet.
LIBRARY LINES
by Sue De Carlo
Library Hours – 8:00 am to 10:00 pm 7 days each week
Memorial Donations - Donations made in honor of an occasion or person or in memory of someone who recently passed are very much appreciated.
Sue Kirkland made a very generous donation in memory of her mother Shirley who passed away this spring at the age of 97.
Donations In Continuing Support - Sincere thanks for the generous support
Reviews of New Acquisitions - Unless otherwise stated the review opinions are my own and the ratings are from the readers at goodreads.com.
RP Non- Fiction – To Rescue e Constitution – George Washington and the Fragile American Experiment by Bret Baier – is is a well written brief history of George Washington’s public life and all he did to foster the creation of our constittution and its actual implimentation as the presiding basis of our government. 87% rated 4 or 5 stars.
LP Mystery – e Body in the Back Yard by Lucy Score ough this is indeed a murder mystery it is primarily a comedy. Riley orn’s boyfriend Nick is a private investigator who runs his busiiness from an o ce in the big old house they share. e book opens with Riley’s ex-husband frantically telling her that someone is trying to kill him and Nick has to provide protection. ere are a group of elderly neighbors each of whom is a slap-stick character. ey move in with the couple when their roof colapses. e story devolves from there into a series of funny situations involving odd ball characters as Nick and Riley try to identify and stop the killer. e mystery is real and the book is funny. Very entertaining. 78% rated 4 or 5 stars.
LP Fiction – Evensong by Stewart O’Nan – is book tells about 4 months in the lives of a group of old ladies living is Pittsburg. e ladies are old church going, choir singing friends that formed a club wherein individuals who can help those who can no longer ful ll the obligations of everyday life. ese are pleasant women who play cards, eat in restaurants occasionally and spend some time each day driving others to appointments or marketing or helping wherever they can. e story seems to have no particular focus other than depicting these lives and friendships. 51% rated 4 or 5 stars
LP Short Stories – Python’s Kiss – by Louise Erdrich – is is a collection of 13 very well crafted stand alone short stories from the award winning author.. Erdrich explores the sacred, profane and mythic as she reveals the inner thoughts and feelings of her characters as well as their well imagined actions. 70% rated 4 or 5 stars
RP Mystery – Tourist Season by Brynne Weaver is book is self-described by the author as a “dark romantic comedy.” e story also encompasses a mystery and various murders. A good deal of the content might be considered “gross” by many readers. Do read the warnings in the beginning of the book while you consider if you will read this book. e story takes place in a Maine coastal village which has hit on a rather macauber theme to attract summer visitors. e major characters are a very wealthy elderly man, his gardener and a man who has come to town to kill the gardener for vengence. e three major characters are serial killers. e supporting characters were varied and interesting and I did enjoy the story once I accepted that the grossness was the point of the book. is is not for everyone. 79% rated 4 or 5 stars.
RP Fiction – Vigil by George Saunders - is is one of the strangest books I have ever read. It is about a dead woman whose job it is to comfort people at the time of their death. In this book is a very wealthy, successful oil tycoon who is on his death bed. He bears no guilt or remorse for lying to the world about the bad e ect of fossil fuels on the climate. e book details e orts of the dead to get him to acknowledge responsibility for damage his lies about dangerous fossil fuels caused to the world climate. I found nothing redeeming or entertaining while reading it. 50% rated 4 or 5 stars.
Speculative Fiction – e Astral Library by Kate Quinn – Imagine a secret magical library reached through a door that might or might not appear in the reading room at your local public library. e astral library is one such. A place where those who need to escape their current lives can make a new life inside a favorite book or picture. e story tells about the library and those who live and work there as well as those who want to destroy it. Some readers thought the story was not detailed enough others thought it was too preachy. 54% rated 4 or 5 stars.
LP Western - e Best of Enemies by William W and J.A. Johnstone e heroes of this story tried mightily to kills each other in the Civil War but became buddies instead. ey’d been traveling together taking odd jobs in the towns of the west since the war was over. ey take a job hauling freight to the miners in the hills and become embroiled in another battle . As the story unfolds the themes of friendship, loyalty individual rights vs. big money interests are explored. Readers have not yet rated this book. I did not enjoy this book as much as other western genre books I have read.
Cannot be combined with other coupons, discounts, offers or $15 Be Our Guest cards. Offer subject to change. dine-in only. Full priced entrées $35 and under are eligible for free entrée promotion. Fall Trio, Campfire Feast, Square Cow Feast and experience events are not included in the offer. Free item is the lower priced entrée. The maximum amount to be discounted from any order is $35. No change given for entrées less than $35. Guest pays difference for any entrée over $35. Free entrée does not include butters, toppers or premium sidekicks. Guest is responsible for tax and gratuity. Promotion valid through l Not valid on nd nd n a
ME'S CORNER OF BLESSINGS
Mary Ellen doValle
Happy Birthday, USA! Not only are we celebrating the 4th of July but the landmark year of 250! Yet 250 years is minuscular to those of other countries. Despite our short years of existence, we as a nation have done extraordinary feats. We also have had immense times of deep sorrow and tragedies. Just like the lady of our harbor, we stood and stand tall. We are rm in our belief that all men (and may I interject women) are created equal and have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Bearing these principles in mind, let us then look into our individual consciences and re ect on how we have implemented them in our daily lives. How have we looked at an individual’s di erences and accepted who they are? How have we assisted in making life easier for those who are less fortunate? What have we contributed to making our community an even better place to live?
Holding these thoughts in mind, I would like to challenge you to a task for humanity. Let us light 250 candles by joining with me to begin 250 days’ worth of performing random acts of kindness. Let us not only celebrate our nation’s birthday but help to make this land one of more brotherly love and tolerance. God bless these United States of America. God bless you.
Welcome to The Poets’
Place
“If an egg is broken by an outside force, life ends. If broken by an inside force, life begins. Great things always begin from the inside.”
Anonymous
I expected very little asyet another dove roosted in the thevitia, but what delight whena chick appeared and after several weeks was almost the size of its mother. I watched and waited, and then…
And again and again, she returned to roost, but egg after egg fell three slipped from the twig-bare nest the nursery gone the dove to her chick cooing ‘give your wings a try’ and away it flew
As the World Turns
Movement is a constant in our world, golf, pickleball, or just walking, etc. Have you noticed how fast the world around us is moving?
Everything old is now in a new form or outdated.
Progress roars around us, not always good for us in our golden years. We are slowing down but the world zipping past us. We try to adapt but some of us enjoy a slower pace.
ere is only one variable in this world: CHANGE. Love it, hate it or tolerate it, it is here to stay!
In order to survive in this world, we need to ACCEPT IT. Instead of seeing CHANGE as a negative we all need to work on our own ACCEPTANCE of it. New can be exciting and exceedingly stimulating!
“ e only limit to our realization of tomorrow will be our doubts of today” -Franklin D Roosevelt
Submitted by Renee A Menard, BA
Become a Part of Leisure World’s First Ever Gingerbread House Auction
by C. Bary Ingerson
Chef LaMott, a Leisure World resident and professional chef, is introducing a silent auction at this year’s anksgiving dinner in Rec 2. During this popular annual dinner, there will be a range of charming gingerbread houses in a variety of sizes and styles — all on display in an adorable gingerbread village. Dinner attendees can make a silent bid for any of the houses on display. Bidders need not be present to win and will be contacted at the end of the day if their bids were successful.
e proceeds of this auction will be donated to Gigi’s Cottage, a tax-exempt charity and local foster home for girls aged 8-18.
Make a Cottage for a Cottage
Chef LaMott is currently recruiting interested Leisure World bakers to create gingerbread houses for this charitable auction.
Who doesn’t want a handmade gingerbread house as part of their holiday decor during the festive season? ose who volunteer to bake and decorate a gingerbread house will have the satisfaction of knowing that they’re not only making a special holiday creation for successful bidders, but also helping the girls of Gigi’s Cottage.
is charity auction is neither a competition, nor is it designed to produce an array of gingerbread desserts.
e anksgiving gingerbread village will be a collection of three-dimensional pieces in a variety of sizes and styles to be auctioned as holiday home decor. ose who contribute to the village are welcome to make a gingerbread structure in any size or design they choose.
Whether you want to create a cottage worth of Hansel and Gretel or to release your inner Viennese sugar art-
ist with a decoratively piped manor, Chef LaMott would love to have you participate. As she is fond of saying, “ ere are no Gingerbread Police, so a gingerbread house can be as simple or intricate or the baker would like”. It is requested, however, that the structure be made so that it can be displayed for several weeks. Bakers of any skill level are welcome to sign up for this worthy e ort.
Gigi’s Cottage - A Local Charity Chef LaMott rst became aware of Gigi’s Cottage foster home about 5 years ago through her church community. Gigi’s Cottage, located in Mesa, is part of the Firm Foundation of Youth Homes organization, a tax-exempt charity.
Peter and Julie Bartolini are the founders of Firm Foundation Youth Homes. ey established Gigi’s Cottage in November 2015, were awarded a contract a few months later with the Department of Child Safety (DCS), and welcomed their rst kids. In addition to operating a children’s home, they train and educate professionals, volunteers, and foster families to connect more relationally with the children under their care.
Several bakers have already committed to participating, but Chef LaMott would like even more bakers to create pieces for the upcoming auction. To help those who might be apprehensive about participating, she asked Charlene Ingerson, an avid gingerbread architect, to give a live demonstration on assembling a gingerbread house during the chef’s monthly cooking class. e demo was extremely well received by the thirty people attending.
At Chef LaMott’s request, Charlene also created a written guide on making and assembling gingerbread houses. Her comprehensive booklet gave the group lots of tips and tricks for making large and small gingerbread houses. It will also be given to any baker who would like to sign up to be a part of this inaugural event.
Baking to Help Our Community
Because Chef LaMott wants to encourage participation, she’s going to make it easy for those bakers who step forward. Not only will they be given the exceptionally informative guide, but they can also reach out and call for in-person help.
Whether you’re an experienced gingerbread baker or novice, please consider volunteering to be a part of this charitable event. ose interested can email Chef LaMott at che amott@gmail.com by August 31st to sign up for the anksgiving gingerbread house auction. We’re hoping to raise several thousand dollars, but can’t do it without your help. Kick o your holiday season early this year by making your own unique creation. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own gingerbread house while helping local children at the same time.
COMMUNICATIONS
Hooter’s
Blues Jam: Live Summer Music Series
Come to listen, dance, or join the jam! A new surprise guest every month. Musicians want to play with the house band? Sign up on the sheet at the side stage table. Sponsored by Leisure World Golf.
Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. (doors open at 6pm), Rec. 1 Clubroom, BYOB-Snacks, $6 at the Rec o ce or online, max capacity is 60.
July 21st, August 18th, September 29th, October 27th
June Penny Answer
“Peek-a-boo! I see you.
Are you looking for me on page 1 or page 2?
You didn’t see me,” Penny said with glee,
“If you’re still looking on page number 3.
“Don’t give up!” I heard Penny say.
“I’ll give you a hint. I’m in Section A.
So did you find me on page 8?
If you did, please don’t be late.
“As you can see, it was not a mystery. It’s about preserving Leisure World history.
So send in your answer without delay.
A prize might just be coming your way.
“Next month I do not plan to be thrifty
As we celebrate America’s 250!”
See you then. Love, Penny
America 250 A look back in time...
“The Architects of Liberty”: An Art Installation
Step back into history this summer with “ e Architects of Liberty,” a captivating art installation hosted in the Rec. 2 Lobby from June 29th through July 5th in honor of America 250! Presented by the Communications department, this exhibit o ers a “look back in time,” honoring the visionary gures and pivotal moments that shaped the foundations of freedom. e installation invites visitors to re ect on the enduring legacy of liberty and the creative forces behind our shared history.
Coyote Golf Course Closed to Walkers, Runners, Bicycle Riders, and Golf Carts
Coyote Run Golf Course irrigation and turf reduction project is well under way. e course will remain closed until completion in October. Heavy boring equipment will be used to install irrigation pipes throughout the golf course during this time, and will be strewn about the course
It is essential that residents not be on the course for many reasons, the most important being safety. e construction crew members will be using the golf cart paths and may need to move from one area to another due to scheduling changes, and they cannot be impeded by residential tra c.
e Leisure World golf course maintenance crew will also be on the course working closely with the construction crew, so there will be a heavy presence of equipment in general on the golf course daily.
Leisure World golf sta will monitor the golf course daily to ensure there is no residential tra c on the course until completion in October.
Look for 2026
Happy July Leisure World,
main welcome pageon the website
We have a dedicated space on the website with information and photos of the progress.
Listed below are some the accomplishments to date.
Holes 1, 2, 3 & 16 have been completed to include installation of the main lines, lateral lines, and putting green and t-box lines.
Irrigation main lines have been installed on holes 15 & 14
Lateral lines are currently being laid on the fairways of hole 15 with hole 14 to follow.
e crew continues to level several t-boxes with seeding to take place shortly after reconstruction.
e sand trap on hole 1 has received a new liner.
Other new & reconstructed sand traps will receive new liners and new sand in the weeks and months to follow.
Hard to believe I’m saying this, but we are encouraged by the warm weather which will promote the reemergence of the Bermuda grass on the course.
e next holes scheduled for main line trenching are 17 & 18
OUTREACH
For older adults who live alone, maintaining independence is important—but so is peace of mind. For this reason, I want to mention a very handy app that several Leisure World residents have been using with success. e app is called “Snug” and it’s a free daily check-in app designed for people living alone. Users choose a daily check-in time and simply tap a large green button in the app to con rm they are safe. If a check-in is missed, Snug send alerts to designated emergency contacts so they can follow up and make sure everything is alright.
e basic version of Snug is free, but there are also paid plans that include dispatcher support, wellness check coordination and additional safety features. e reassurance this app can provide you and your family could be invaluable! I’d be happy to help you set this app up on your phone—just let me know! Also please be aware Veteran's A nity is pausing for the summer and will resume meeting in October.
Gratefully, Jessica jmontes@lwca.com or (480) 207-1611
Coyote Run Renovation box on the
BREAKING NEWS
At Inspirations of Mesa, we’re investing in the future through enhancements designed to elevate comfort and connection. From refreshed gathering spaces and updated finishes to new furnishings, exciting improvements are taking shape to create a welcoming place where residents can thrive.
As our surroundings evolve, the things residents value most remain unchanged—engaging activities, exceptional dining, meaningful friendships, and a lifestyle filled with opportunity.
We invite you to experience our community firsthand, and see why Inspirations of Mesa is not like home, it is home.
American/Southern – Fried Chicken
Chinese Night
American/Southern – Pot Roast
French Night
American/Southern – Burgers
Mediterranean Night
By Carley Cathemer & Shana Lara
e American Revolution was carried on the shoulders of men and women who fought through the fear and held tightly to the hope of better. Seeking better for their homes, families, and selves, their endeavors would change the course of history and establish a new nation. is new nation would require much and most importantly intellectual men willing to create the documents a new budding government would need to successfully begin to garner respect and opportunity from their former oppressors and neighboring nations.
e res these men started are still burning, with embers aring from their posterity and the changes they enacted. How lucky are we to have such an ember right here in Leisure World. Frank Rutledge, a resident of our community is a 6th generation descended of two key players from the American Revolution. His ancestry laid the governing foundation for both South Carolina and the United States of America.
The Brothers
John Rutledge and his brother Edward were deeply in uenced by their upbringing. Raised by their mother Sarah Hext, their father John Rutledge, and their uncle Andrew Rutledge, the boys were surrounded by legal and political brilliance.
“For all practical purposes the brothers— Andrew and John—were one Rutledge. One supplied the house, the entertainment, and the light conversation; the other brought in the ruling minds of the port, an instinctive knowledge of governance and a will to power. rough the decade of the 1740’s the political a airs of the Carolinas were discussed and debated by the leaders of Charles Town in the Rutledge House… In this atmosphere John Rutledge [and Edward] spent his [their] formative period” (Barry 8).
John Rutledge II
e eldest son of the South Carolina family, John, studied law alongside his father and uncle before traveling to London to further his education. He would later become one of the most successful attorneys in the colony. His career as an attorney would lead him to representing South Carolina at the Stamp Act Congress in 1765, as well as many of his fellow colonists against the British. John left congress in 1775 to return to his home state and serve as one of the drafters of the state constitution and was quickly elected president (governor) of South Carolina.
When Charleston was captured by the British, John escaped and operated as a “one-man government” working with other southern states and the Continental
The Embers of Independence: A Rutledge Legacy in Leisure World
Army in the south to boost local militias. Eventually the military involvement allowed John to restore the states government as well as pass the baton to his successor John Mathewes in January of 1782.
His work and belief in the need of a strong centralized government led to him having a large role in the drafting of the US Constitution. He believed in a strong but limited federal government.” As chairman of the committee of detail, he had a major role in the enumeration of congressional powers, the provision forbidding taxation of exports, and the ban on national prohibition of slave imports until 1808. Rutledge promoted the adoption of the constitution at South Carolina’s rati cation convention.” (John Rutledge (U.S. National Park Service)).
In 1789 he was appointed as one of the rst justices of the US Supreme Court but resigned in 1791 to become the chief justice of South Carolina and held o ce until 1795.
ough he su ered greatly after the death of his wife as well as from his own health problems, he was appointed by George Washington as the Chief Justice of the US Supreme court in 1795. His nomination was rejected by the Federalist-dominated Senate. John lived the rest of his life in retirement until he passed on July 18, 1800.
Edward Rutledge
Edward Rutledge was born on November 23rd, 1749, in Charleston, SC, the youngest son of the seven Rutledge children. Born into status, he received a classical education and later followed in his older brothers’ footsteps by attending Oxford University and studying law at the Inns of Court in London. In 1772, at the age of 23, he was
admitted to the English bar. He was a skilled orator with a promising future as an attorney.
Upon his return to America, “Rutledge entered the political arena while still in his twenties. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress for the critical years of 1774 to 1776, and as a state legislator from 1775 to 1776. Serving with him was his older brother John, also a lawyer and landowner, and his brother-in-law, Arthur Middleton” (Edward Rutledge | Constitution Center).
Leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence, South Carolina originally opposed independence. Edward and other SC delegates were hoping reconciliation with Britian would preserve colonial rights. John Rutledge was unavailable during this period, but had advised Edward, ““Whatever happens do not break the union,” ... If South Carolina failed to agree to the Declaration of Independence, the Union would be broken” (Barry 218). Edward helped convince the other delegates to change their minds in support of independence. At 26, Edward became the youngest signer of the Declaration.
Edward Rutledge balanced his political duties with active combat. He served as a captain in the Charleston Battalion of Artillery, ghting in various battles for South Carolina’s defense. His military career was interrupted in 1780 when he was captured by the British during their third invasion of the state. Despite initially being paroled, he was re-arrested for allegedly plotting resistance and held as a prisoner in St. Augustine until a prisoner exchange in 1781.
Starting in 1782, he served 13 consecutive years in the House of Representatives. George Washington asked twice for Edward to serve the Supreme Court, but he declined. Despite struggling with poor health and the loss of his rst wife, Rutledge remained dedicated to public service. He transitioned to the State Senate in 1796 and was elected Governor of South Carolina in 1798. He died in o ce in January 1800 at the age of 50 after su ering a stroke.
Present Day- Frank Rutledge Communications received word of the connection between Frank and his family history and were ecstatic to have the opportunity to share the Rutledge lineage with all our LWCA neighbors.
Frank and his wife Sue got married, moved business store fronts and moved into Leisure World all in the same week in 1993. Having both been entrepreneurs for most of their lives, the two bonded over business strategy and problem solving. Frank counts that the two have been on more than 35 cruises and Sue has been on over 90! e two have lled their time with travel and Frank is an amateur historian who loves Arizona history. His stories and photos have been published
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John Rutledge courtesy of Library of Congress.
Edward Rutledge oil painting by James Earl, 1791.
Howard Chandler Christy's painting depicts Independence Hall in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787.
multiple times in the Superstition Mountain Journal
We arrived at the Rutledge’s picturesque manor, and it was quickly clear to us how much love Frank has for his beautiful wife Sue, family and lineage. He honors both John and Edward with a corner in his home dedicated to their lives and works. With framed copies of the Declaration of Independence and Constitution, both with arrows highlighting the signatures of his relatives. Commemorative playing cards and coins, books and even a photo album of himself visiting the ancestral homes of John and Edward.
It was an honor to view his collection as well as speak
with his family. We had a great time researching and highly encourage all to dive deeper into their own family histories and see if they too have relatives that aided the revolution.
“ e relationships we form with other people can be incredibly durable, not only with people in our present but also with people in our past and future. e more we discover about our past, the greater a connection we feel to our ancestors” (Coleman, 2017).
Citations
• Barry, Richard. Mr. Rutledge of South Carolina. Ayer Publishing, 1971.
• “John Rutledge (U.S. National Park Service).” Www. nps.gov, 17 Mar. 2021, www.nps.gov/people/johnrutledge.htm.
• “Edward Rutledge | Constitution Center.” National Constitution Center – Constitutioncenter.org, 2025, constitutioncenter.org/signers/edward-rutledge.
• Coleman, Rachel. “Why We Need Family History Now More than Ever.” FamilySearch Blog, 26 Sept. 2017, www.familysearch.org/en/blog/why-we-needfamily-history-now-more-than-ever.
Why Is the U.S. Flag Red, White, and Blue?
e red, white, and blue used in the U.S. ag are deeply linked to the country’s historical ties with Britain. e colors mirror those used in the British Union Jack, re ecting the colonial heritage of the United States. e nation’s earliest ags, used during the American Revolution, incorporated elements of the British ag. As the U.S. ag evolved, it maintained the red, white, and blue color scheme.
While there is no o cial meaning assigned to the colors of the U.S. ag, Charles omson, the secretary of the Continental Congress, o ered an interpretation when describing the Great Seal of the United States. He suggested that white symbolizes purity and innocence, red represents hardiness and valor, and blue signi es vigilance, perseverance, and justice. ese interpretations have been widely accepted and embraced by the American public over time.
Sourced from: https://www.britannica.com/topic/ Why-Is-the-US-Flag-Red-White-and-Blue
Frank at the historical John Rutledge House.
The historic John Rutledge House.
National Symbols, Stories & Icons
Sourced from: https://www.nps.gov/stsp/learn/ historyculture/national-symbols-stories-icons.htm
The Flag e War of 1812 elevated the American ag to icon status. Before the war, Americans rarely used the ag to express patriotism. But the ag’s appearance over Fort McHenry during the Battle for Baltimore and Francis Scott Key’s poem “ e Star-Spangled Banner” inspired the public. After the war, the ag was often displayed as a symbol of national pride and unity.
Major George Armistead wanted to show the British that Fort McHenry was ready to ght. “We, sir, are ready at Fort McHenry to defend Baltimore against invading by the enemy,” he said to American General Samuel Smith, who commanded all forces in and around the city. “ at is to say, we are ready except that we have no suitable ensign to display over the Star Fort and it is my desire to have a ag so large that the British will have no di culty seeing it from a distance.”
In the summer of 1813, Armistead commissioned Mary Pickersgill, a second-generation ag maker, to make an “American ensign 30 by 42 feet” of “ rst quality bunting.” When Fort McHenry held o the British navy during the Battle for Baltimore in September 1814, Pickersgill’s ag was hoisted in a triumph over the fort.
After a long journey from family keepsake to national treasure, Fort McHenry’s ag found a home at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History.
An American ag ies over Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, a reminder of the iconic ag that inspired the words to what became the national anthem of the United States of America. Visitors learn the ag’s story through exhibits and ranger-led programs.
The National Anthem
e War of 1812 also produced the national anthem of the United States of America. Francis Scott Key was inspired to write “ e Star-Spangled Banner” after watching Fort McHenry survive the British bombardment.
Key’s new lyrics to a popular tune of the day gained instant popularity in the days after the Battle for Baltimore, but it didn’t become the o cial national anthem for more than 100 years. During the Civil War, bands played it regularly. e US Navy made it an o cial part of its ag ceremonies in 1889, and President Woodrow Wilson ordered it to be played for military ceremonies during World War I.
In 1929, the popular newspaper cartoon series “Ripley’s Believe or Not!” noted that the country had no national anthem. Well-known composer John Philip Sousa published his endorsement of Francis Scott Key’s “soul-stirring” lyrics, and a public campaign began
to promote “ e Star-Spangled Banner.” President Herbert Hoover nally signed a law on March 3, 1931, to make Key’s song the o cial national anthem.
The First Lady
e role of the rst lady gained greater visibility during the War of 1812 era, thanks to the gregarious, charming and fashionable Dolley Madison. Legend has it she was the rst to be called “ rst lady” when President Zachary Taylor delivered her eulogy in 1849. Dolley set a standard to which many future rst ladies would aspire.
e consummate White House (then known as the “President’s house”) hostess, Dolley brought sophistication to the capital. During her husband’s presidency, Washington was still a small city, and hardly cosmopolitan. In the words of Attorney General Richard Rush, it was “a meager village, a place with a few bad houses and extensive swamps.”
President James Madison was an awkward, dour man. His wife, in contrast, was warm and welcoming, and she took the lead hosting political gures and events.
Dolley’s fame increased after the burning of Washington. In August 1814, with the British only miles away, she was still at the White House, trying to save as many of the nation’s documents and treasures as she could.
When she returned to Washington after the British occupation, Dolley reinstated her Wednesday evening “drawing rooms” (receptions), which were popular with politicians, diplomats, and other Washingtonians.
Madison helped shaped the role of rst ladies in public service. She was the rst to formally support a public project when she helped found a home for orphaned girls in Washington.
Uncle Sam
e gure “Brother Jonathan” personi ed the United States during the Revolutionary War, but during the War of 1812, his successor—“Uncle Sam”—was invented.
e moniker “Uncle Sam” was probably coined in reference to businessman Sam Wilson, who supplied American troops along the Canadian border with barrels of meat stamped with “U.S.” is, of course, stood for “United States,” but soldiers joked that the rations were from “Uncle Sam.” e term became popular in reference to supplies or gifts from the government, but it was just a name.
A visual representation of Uncle Sam didn’t appear until 1832. His image evolved over the next 30 years. Uncle Sam and Brother Jonathan were both popular icons through the Civil War, but eventually Uncle Sam incorporated traits from Brother Jonathan—and President Abraham Lincoln—to become the dominant icon. By the late 1850s, Americans knew Uncle Sam as a serious, grandfatherly man with a white beard who dressed in red, white, and blue stripes and a top hat.
e best-known portrait of Uncle Sam appeared on World War I military recruitment posters, which featured him pointing his nger directly at young men and saying “I want you.”
Dolley
www.americanvisionwindowsazcom
ReMax Classic wants to remind everyone that we are open and conduct business over the summer months. Summer can be a perfect time to list your home or purchase a home. The reason for this is less competition, a slower pace to make sound decisions and possibly more negotiation for better pricing.
ReMax Classic would like to thank all the clients who chose our services. We are delighted to be Leisure
World real estate experts and help clients through the entire real estate transaction process. Whether you are interested in Leisure World or the surrounding area, we a more than happy to assist you.
We hope everyone has a fun and safe summer and we look forward to seeing you in the fall.
Sourced from: https://www.businessnewsdaily. com/8122-oldest-companies-in-america.html
1. Caswell-Massey (1752)
Dr. William Hunter started this perfume and soap company as an apothecary shop in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1752, as detailed on the Caswell-Massey o cial history. Serving distinguished clientele, Hunter supplied medicinals, perfumes and personal care products. George Washington gave a bottle of Number Six Cologne to the Marquis de Lafayette, and Lewis and Clark took Caswell-Massey products on their cross-country trek.
Today, Caswell-Massey is owned by a private investment group and based in New Jersey, selling products exclusively online and through select retailers.
2. The Hartford Courant (1764) is Connecticut-based newspaper, established by printer omas Green as the Connecticut Courant in 1764, is known for being America’s oldest continuously published newspaper, according to the Hartford Courant website. George Washington, Mark Twain and omas Je erson are all part of its storied history. e Courant’s slogan today is “Older than the nation.” While it closed its Connecticut o ce in 2020, the newspaper continues publishing with a remote sta . Owned by Alden Global Capital, the Courant maintains a weekday circulation of over 90,000.
3. Baker’s Chocolate (1765) is chocolate company was founded just outside Boston in 1765 by a Harvard-educated doctor named James Baker and Irish immigrant John Hannon. Hannon made his rst recorded chocolate sale in 1772. However, in 1779, he embarked on a journey to the West Indies to buy cocoa and never returned, leaving Baker to take over the business.
Founded When? America’s Oldest Companies
In 1780, the company made its rst Baker’s branded chocolate. Eventually, it expanded its product line from unsweetened chocolate to cocoa powders, sweet chocolate, candy-making chocolate and avored chocolate bars. Today, Baker’s Chocolate is owned by Kraft Heinz and is one of the largest baking chocolate brands in the U.S.
4. Ames (1774) is tool company — which today makes garden hoses, reels and professional hand tools — was started in Massachusetts in 1774 by a blacksmith, Capt. John Ames.
According to the Ames website, its shovels were used in numerous landmark events, including the groundbreaking for the B&O Railroad in Baltimore, the building of the transcontinental railroad, the search for California gold in the 1840s, the installation of the Statue of Liberty, the creation of Mount Rushmore and the construction of the interstate highway system. Today, Ames is owned by management and holding company Gri on Corporation and based in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania.
5. King Arthur Baking Company (1790) e King Arthur Flour Company was founded in 1790 in Boston by Henry Wood, but it wasn’t until 1896 that the company got its name. Initially, Wood’s business — then known as the Sands, Taylor & Wood Company — imported European our for bakers in the U.S. A century later, the company introduced its own American our at the Boston Food Fair, according to the King Arthur website.
e King Arthur Flour Company became the King Arthur Baking Company in 2020, in a move designed to best represent its mission and beliefs. ere’s now a King Arthur Baking School, the Baker’s Hotline and the King Arthur Cafe, Bakery & Store. e company
is headquartered in White River Junction, Vermont, and now — more than 200 years after its inception — you can still buy King Arthur Flour, both in stores and online.
6. Cigna (1792)
Originally formed as INA (Insurance Company of North America) in Pennsylvania in 1792, Cigna is the nation’s oldest stockholder-owned insurer. e company merged with Connecticut General Life Insurance (formed in 1865 and also known as CG) in 1982 to become Cigna, and is now headquartered in Bloom eld, Connecticut. Cigna ranks #13 in the 2025 Fortune 500 list, with revenues of more than $2.5 billion.
7. Dixon Ticonderoga (1795)
If you’ve ever had to ll out an exam with a No. 2 pencil, Dixon Ticonderoga should be a familiar name. e graphite pencil company started back in 1795. Dixon Ticonderoga formed during a merger between the Joseph Dixon Crucible Company and the Bryn Mawr Corporation and started making pencils in the 1830s.
e company’s headquarters were in Jersey City, New Jersey, for more than 100 years, but it’s now based in Lake Mary, Florida.
8. Jim Beam (1795)
Bourbon was born in the 1770s in Kentucky, when corn farmers of the Kentucky region of Virginia distilled their excess crop into a sweeter whiskey, according to Jim Beam’s website. In 1795, history was made when distiller Jacob Beam sold his rst barrel of whiskey, called Old Jake Beam Sour Mash, from the family distillery — known as Old Tub.
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e company didn’t change its name to Jim Beam until 1943. It’s named after Col. James B. Beam, the fourth generation of the Beam family to take over the distillery. Today, it is run by the seventh generation of the Beam family, Frederick Booker Noe III.
9. JPMorganChase (1799)
e largest bank in the U.S. had meager beginnings as the Manhattan Company. Founded by Aaron Burr, it was the second commercial bank in New York City. It began as a venture to lay waterworks for the city, and the charter for the group included a clause that allowed Burr to operate it as a bank after the waterworks project was complete.
rough dozens of mergers, it became J.P. Morgan & Co. — and a principal investor in the railroad in the 1800s, cementing its place in history. As JPMorganChase, it still operates in many industries besides banking today. JPMorganChase manages more than $3.9 trillion in assets and has over 300,000 employees worldwide.
10. Crane Stationery (1799)
In 1770, Stephen Crane took over the rst paper mill in Massachusetts — the Liberty Paper Mill. In 1799, the company relocated to a new mill in Dalton, Massachusetts, and was taken over by Stephen’s son, Zenas. Since then, the company has provided high-
end cotton paper for both personal and business use, according to the Crane website.
Paul Revere used Crane paper and was even known to pasture his horses at the original Liberty Paper Mill. England’s Queen Mother Elizabeth was a fan of Crane’s stationery and used it for her 100th birthday celebration announcement. e company has also supplied paper to the U.S. Treasury to print money since 1879.
In 2016, Crane Stationery became a stand-alone business, separating from the company’s currency division. In 2024, WP Strategic Holdings acquired the company.
11. DuPont (1802)
When you hear “DuPont,” you probably think of an innovative, modern company. DuPont was founded in Delaware in 1802 by E.I. du Pont, a Frenchman with expertise in making gunpowder. In 1804, du Pont built his rst powder mill on Brandywine Creek, using bark from willow trees for charcoal to create black powder, according to the DuPont website.
Since then, the company has made various products, including dyes, sweater bers and lm for Hollywood movies. It also holds several trademarks, such as Corian countertops, Te on and Kevlar.
DuPont merged with Dow, becoming DowDuPont in 2017. e company then split into three separate businesses in 2019: DuPont de Nemours, Inc. (specialty
products), Dow (materials science) and Corteva (agriculture).
12. Colgate (1806)
Colgate wasn’t always a toothpaste company. It was started by William Colgate in 1806 in New York City. e business sold soaps and candles, eventually introducing perfumes in 1866, according to the Colgate website. e company debuted its “Colgate aromatic toothpaste in jars” in 1873.
In 1928, Colgate merged with soap company Palmolive, originally founded in 1864 in Milwaukee. e company sells its products in more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. Colgate-Palmolive posted more than $20 billion in global sales as of 2024.
13. Pfaltzgraff (1811)
You can still buy Pfaltzgra dinnerware in department stores today, but its roots go back to the early 1800s, when the Pfaltzgra family immigrated to the U.S. and set up a small potter’s wheel and kiln on their 21-acre homestead in York County, Pennsylvania. e earliest Pfaltzgra market was de ned to be “as far as you can get with a horse and a wagon and then get back home the same day.”
In 2005, Pfaltzgra became part of Lifetime Brands,
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www.facebook.com/becksflooringaz
1. I am proud to be an American, because I know what life feels like without freedom. Growing up in a Communist country, I learned early that:
• Speaking your mind could get you in trouble
• Travel was a privilege not a right
• Owning property was not guaranteed
• Opportunity depended on the government not on you Coming to America felt like stepping into sunlight after years of shadows. Here, I can speak freely. I can work hard and build a life. I can own a home. I am proud to be an American because this country – and it gave me the freedom my childhood never allowed....
2. To me American Dream means escaping a system that controlled everything and finding a place where I get to decide who I am.
3. I would choose Ronald Reagan. As someone who lived under communism, I would want to talk to the man who
America: Through a Resident Lens
understood the reality of life behind the Iron Curtain. I would ask him:
• How he found the courage to stand up to totalitarianism.
• What he believed freedom meant for people like me.
• How he kept hope alive during the darkest years of the Cold War.
4. The Cold War and the fall of communism – because it isn’t history to me. It’s my life, my childhood. My memories. My escape. My transformation. It’s the story of:
• Government that controlled every part of my life.
• People who whispered the truth only behind closed doors.
• Families who dreamed of freedom but didn’t dare say it.
• A world that finally changed – and opened the door for people like me to start over. Learning history feels like reading the chapter of a book, I once lived inside.
Resident Gerald Banker
3. John F. Kennedy
4. Wars: I was in Vietnam and I wanted to know how we got involved. I was on a navy ship and talked to marines aboard while we were coming back to San Diego. They didn’t know why we were there.
Resident Steven Stocker
1. That America started as an experiment in selfgovernment and that a constitution was written to promote a republic of freedoms and liberties.
2. It means that whatever God-given talents I have and whatever conditions I was born in, I am free to take advantage of my situation and make of it what I am capable of creating.
3. One of the Founding Fathers, probably John Adams or Thomas Jefferson. While they were active in politics, they were sometimes bitterly opposed to each other.
But in their old age, they were friends and wrote to each other often. They both died on the same day, 50 years after the Declaration of Independence. I would want to share with them how far the American dream they started has progressed.
4. The American Civil War and the story of Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln was elected at the very start of the Civil War and served throughout the War, only to be assassinated at the very end of the war. The whole story is heroic and tragic.
Resident Bill Dean
1. Unlike any other country in the world, the USA is made up of primarily immigrants from all over the world as well as native citizens. Thus, we have a mix of cultures that makes the USA the only “melting pot” country in the world. We have picked up the best—and sometimes the worst—from to form a country like no other.
2. That anyone can go as far in their profession or passion as they want. The limits are what we impose on ourselves. Think of those that came to this country and achieved great things that benefited both them and everyone — Albert Einstein being probably the greatest recent example. But from our founding as a nation— think Alexander Hamilton—people came to this country and built it. Whether everything is perfect or not, USA is and has set the tone in the world for years.
3. This is a tough to choose a single person as there have been so many who have contributed and made the USA what it is. Not just politicians, but scientists, educators, artists, business entrepreneurs and the list goes on. But the question demands that I pick one, so my choice is Abraham Lincoln. While Washington and the other founders created this country, when the country was torn apart over the issue of whether or not all humans should be treated
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equally (think slavery), Lincoln held fast to the idea that “All men are created equal and have the right hat they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” He led us in the bloodiest war in our history with over 500,000 dead but his belief in what made America led us to become the country we are today. Plus, he had a very good sense of humor.
4.Hard to pick 1. I enjoyed learning more about the revolution, i.e. Ken Burns’ recent piece on PBS. But there are so many other aspects from politics to the arts to sports and the list goes on. But since I must choose one, I would pick the political history of our country from founding to today.
Resident Ellen Thompson
1.Two reasons easily come to mind regarding why I am a proud American. First, America is a generous nation. We consistently respond to global crises with assistance. Whether addressing natural disasters, persistent hunger, or disease outbreaks, America is on the way. The second is that our nation reflects God’s gift of selfdetermination (free will). In America the individual has the freedom to chart their path in life.
2.he American Dream means pursuing a career ofourchoice, the place you want to live, and the activities you enjoy.
3.There are too many people in our nation’s history that I would like to meet. However, I would start with the signers of the Declaration of Independence. These men designed a foundation under which individuals have the chance to flourish.
4.My favored topic in American history is the study of inventions by American businesses.
Resident Walter Pinkus
1.That, through our 250 years, we have mostly been seen by others as the embodiment of the aspirational thoughts behind and the words in our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution, leading to so many of those others choosing to immigrate and join us in our continuing enterprise.
2.That, through our 250 years, we have done a lot of things right, that is to say, honored the aspirational thoughts behind and the words in our Declaration of
Independence and our Constitution, leading to better lives for our People. That, as reflection on what we have done has led to realizations that there have been instances when we were (or are) not living up to those aspirations, we have endeavored to change and hew closer to those goals. That, when there has been the inevitable pushback to those changes, we have not in the long run given up on seeing the aspirations through.
3.Frances Perkins, 1880-1965. 1st Industrial Commissioner of the State of New York, 1929-1932. 4th US Secretary of Labor, 1933-1945. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Frances_Perkins
4.At the moment, the WWII period. Our side of it, along with what was happening in the rest of the world. How we moved from being isolationist politically and not an industrial powerhouse to the colossus that was in 1945.
Resident Paula Robertson
1.There are many reasons to be proud and as an Air Force Brat, I have lived all over the world. And while the world is beautiful, governments are not. And even though I get made at ours sometimes, it is still the best there is. And it allows me, although it is rude sometimes, I can say anything I want to about it and not get arrested. Threats notwithstanding.
2.The American Dream, I think, refers mostly to being free. Free to speak, free to choose a career, free to marry, free to choose my religion, free to vote, etc. That doesn’t mean that there are no consequences to my choices, but I can use my agency.
3.Abraham Lincoln, he is fascinating. I would like to sit at a table of about 10 of my friends and sit back and listen. I think I would take him to Black Angus where all of us Leisure World residents get half off!
4.My favorite topic is the Constitution. That great inspired document that formed this government.
Resident Renee Menard
1.After traveling to Asia, I realized America and its freedoms are stellar. The advantages we have here include social security, healthcare , etc. FREEDOM IS MOST IMPORTANT.
2.America Dream means freedom to me Freedom to own land, homes having many choices to be creative about your choices.
3.Dwight D Eisenhower. He was president after I was
born. Always wanted to know more about his politics.
4.Prohibition.
Resident Jeff Hodgkinson
1.Foundational freedoms, the diverse cultural melting pot, groundbreaking scientific and artistic achievements, and the country’s vast natural beauty.We also need to remember that our flag does not fly with the wind but from the last breath of the person that died defending our nation.
2.Any citizen has the freedom and opportunity to build a better life through hard work and determination.
3.It would be Nikola Tesla; however, he never ate lunch so it would be dinner. Discussion would be on wireless technology, his theories on free energy, his vision of the future, and his eccentricities and unusual habits.
4.The Gilded Age (1870s–1900): Understanding the massive wealth inequality created by “Robber Barons” like Rockefeller and Carnegie, alongside the rise of early labor unions and major urban strikes. There is a great series on HBO about it and my wife and I really enjoyed it.
Resident Jeff Morris
1.It makes me proud to be an American when people respect our country, our flag, our history, and the sacrifices people living and dead have made, and continue to make, to preserve our constitutional republic. As a Northeasterner, my roots go back to the Pilgrims and to Union Army soldiers who fought in the Civil War. Most of my career was dedicated to national defense and security. I am proud to be an American when its citizens, and those who aspire to become its citizens, respect those sacrifices and this nation’s form of government and its traditional values.
2.To me, “The American Dream” means the values this nation’s forefathers set down using feathered pens on parchment paper when they drafted the U.S. Constitution and its amendments. This does not include the perturbations and interpretations Constitutional scholars have employed to undermine the Constitution’s objectives, provisions, and freedoms as written and intended by its drafters.
3.General William Westmoreland. Yes, I am a Vietnam-era veteran. If Westmoreland had not been constrained by
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Grub-N-Groove: Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday
2 free raffles and an extra drawing for all who wear red, white, and blue! 50/50 cash drawing! Bring your favorite dish for potluck or for your table. BYOB, ice and water provided! Come listen or dance to the music of DJ Steve.
We provide compassionate, reliable home care for seniors who deserve comfort, dignity, and respect. Our caregivers treat your loved one like family, offering companionship, daily assistance, and personalized care in the comfort of their own home. Let us care for those who once cared for you!
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Marcie’s Senior Day Club
Everyone deserves community. Our Senior Day Club provides a safe, welcoming space where seniors can socialize, stay active, and stimulate their minds. Families can enjoy peace of mind and a well-deserved break.
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the Johnson Administration (and if Goldwater had won in 1964), the U.S. very well might have won the Vietnam “conflict.” To me, Westmoreland is the prime example of a military leader who had his hands tied by politicians when he was winning. Disagree if you will, but since Eisenhower this is why the U.S. has not won a war since WWII. The U.S. may have the most potent military force on the planet. But all is for naught when weak political leaders are calling the shots—or not.
4.My favorite topic from American history is The Pilgrims. Their story is laid out clearly in Mayflower, by Nathaniel Philbrick. Last summer, my grandkids were in the Pilgrim Hall Museum in Plymouth, MA, with my son and daughter-in-law. The grandkids asked which Pilgrim families they were related to. I could tell them that because I was familiar with our family’s ancestry. But Philbrick’s book provides context with regard to where and how those ancestors lived and how their experiences influenced this nation, i.e., initially, through the socialistic collectivism set forth in the Mayflower Compact, followed later by the concepts of private ownership of property and entrepreneurship, and how the Plimoth (yes, that is the correct spelling) Colony thrived and became exponentially more abundant under the latter system.
Linda Goldberg, Mother’s Day Raffle Winner
Girl’s Just Want to have Fun at GNG!
Sourced from: https://stories.state.gov/american-inventions/
Embracing their rights to ‘life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,’ Americans have always pushed what’s possible. Before the United States gained independence, its people — including founding father Benjamin Franklin — were testing big ideas. In 1752, more than two decades before America’s Declaration of Independence, Franklin’s kite experiment demonstrated the principle of electricity and led to the lightning rod, which protects buildings worldwide to this day.
American innovation has advanced in many directions since then, from medical breakthroughs to placing a man on the moon. Creativity stems in part from a pioneering spirit, which continues to spur freewheeling ingenuity among American inventors. In the words of U.S. business mogul Philip Anschutz, “research how and why things are, and imagine how they might change.”
Here’s a look at U.S. inventions that have improved everyday life around the world, presented in chronological order.
Anesthesia
1846 • William T.G. Morton • Surgery without pain e rst demonstration of anesthesia, using ether, revolutionized surgery, allowing for longer, more complex procedures and, ultimately, a deeper understanding of human anatomy. Ether paved the way for modern anesthesia techniques and the emergence of the specialized eld of anesthesiology.
Hearing Aid
1898 • Miller Hutchison • Access and dignity e “Akouphone” — the rst portable hearing aid using a carbon transmitter (consisting of a microphone, ampli er, headphones, and a battery) — moved
American Innovations
beyond passive ear trumpets to amplify sound with electricity. While early versions were clunky and expensive, they laid the groundwork for better designs.
In 1971, four engineers (three Americans, one Japanese) co-invented the Intel 4004, a microprocessor that led to small, customizable hearing aids and eventually to digital and app-based models made by Danish and Belgian rms.
The Airplane
1903 • Wilbur and Orville Wright • Human flight e Wright brothers are credited with inventing the rst successful airplane (the “Wright Flyer”) and achieving the rst controlled, sustained ight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. ey also developed many of the basic principles and techniques of aeronautical engineering. A subsequent “aerial age” brought additional types of aircraft, global travel, and military advances.
Modern Zipper
1917 • Gideon Sundback • Small, scalable, and revolutionary e zipper was a fundamental element in the clothing revolution of the early 20th century. It provided a more e cient fastening mechanism for clothing and other items than earlier buttons and laces. e widespread use of zippers in clothing, footwear, and other items made life easier and a ected fashion trends.
The Microwave Oven
1945 • Percy Spencer • Rapid cooking Initially intended for radar technology, the microwave oven was the brainchild of an engineer who noticed a candy bar in his pocket melting rapidly as he worked with a live radar set emitting microwave signals. He discovered the radar’s compact cavity magnetron tube was responsible for heating the chocolate. His melting candy
bar led to the consumer appliance that revolutionized food preparation.
Pacemaker
1952 • Paul Zoll • Keeping the beat e rst cardiac pacemaker, designed by U.S. cardiologist Paul Zoll, was a breakthrough in treating irregular heart rhythms. While it was bulky, it demonstrated the potential for electrical stimulation to regulate the heart and was a rst step toward an implantable device developed in 1958 by Swedish physicians Åke Senning and Rune Elmqvist. In 1960, three American innovators (surgeons William Chardack and Andrew Gage, and engineer Wilson Greatbatch) made a commercially viable, implantable pacemaker.
Organ Transplant
1954 • Joseph Murray and David Hume • A second chance at life
Two surgeons jointly performed a kidney transplant between identical twins in Boston — the rst successful human-to-human organ transplant — opening the door for future advancements in transplant medicine and providing hope for patients with failing organs. Liver, heart, and pancreas transplants were successfully performed by the late 1960s, while lung and intestinal organ transplants were begun in the 1980s.
GPS
1973–93 • U.S. Department of Defense • Precise time and location systems
People all over the world rely on the Global Positioning System (GPS), originally developed as satellite navigation for the U.S. military, to see a road map on a smartphone, hail a rideshare service, log miles on an exercise program, or tell time.
Maricopa County Library, Queen Creek Library
Maricopa County Library, Queen Creek Library o ers a broad range of programs.
e Queen Creek Library o ers free programs for people of all ages. For a complete list of o erings visit www.mcldaz.org/queencreek.
e Queen Creek Library is located at 21802 S Ellsworth Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 and is open to the public Monday- ursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
e Summer Reading Program begins June 1! is 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!
e Queen Creek Library o ers FREE programs for people of all ages. Adult programs include social events, crafts, lm and book discussions. Some of our upcoming June/July programs include: Adults Discover (weekly adult craft), Mystery Book Club, Puzzle Palooza, Food Events, Movie Discussion Club and a Romance Book Club. We are open Monday thru ursday 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.
July Adult Events
Registration may be required. Check online or call for details.
Foods that Changed the World
Thursday, July 2 • 5:00-7:00 pm
Join us as Larry Canepa, a certi ed culinary educator, teaches us about foods that changed the world! Many foods were so remarkable that when they were introduced, they changed the course of history for entire countries, continents, and civilizations. ese foods have an even bigger story to tell. Some foods made such a big impact, they actually changed the world. Join us to learn and taste these foods! Please be aware of food allergies.
Film Making 101
Monday, July 6 • 6:00-7:00 pm
Documentarian and ASU faculty member Nita Blum-Reddick will be presenting a workshop on creating your own lms!
Puzzle Palooza
Thursday, July 16 • 6:00-7:30 pm
Do you love puzzles? Join us for some puzzle making and swapping! You can bring a puzzle to swap with someone else, or just come in to piece together provided puzzles. is event is for all ages and anyone looking to puzzle is welcome! No registration is required and participants are welcome to come any time.
Adult Cinema Club
Monday, July 20 • 6:00-7:00 pm
Join us for thoughtful discussion focusing on a new lm 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.
which also markets products like Farberware, KitchenAid and Cuisinart.
14. Citigroup (1812)
is bank was founded in 1812 as the City Bank of New York, run by Samuel Osgood. e bank opened with $2 million in capital. In 1865, it joined the U.S. national banking system and was renamed e National City Bank of New York. In 1894, it became the largest bank in the U.S.
e National City Bank opened its rst foreign branch in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1914. After several name changes throughout the years, the company merged with Travelers Group in 1998 to become Citigroup, the company it’s known as today. Citigroup now boasts a reach of 94 markets in 180 countries.
15. Louisville Stoneware (1815)
Stoneware & Co is one of the oldest stoneware manufacturers in the country. e company was founded in 1815 and has been making stoneware products for the home and garden ever since.
Visitors interested in a behind-the-scenes look at the historic company — or those who just love pottery — can go to the company’s headquarters in Louisville, Kentucky, to take a tour of the factory and even paint their own pottery using the same tools as the company’s artisans.
16. Remington Ammunition (1816)
Who would have thought that America’s oldest rearm maker rst became known for its commercial typewriter? at is the humble beginnings of Remington, founded by Eliphalet Remington in Ilion, New York. One of Remington’s sons forged a barrel of his own and, after having it ri ed, placed second in a local shooting competition with it. He began to make barrels to meet demand, and the company is still doing that today, innovating new performance standards at its research and development facility in LaGrange, Georgia.
17. HarperCollins Publishers (1817)
Brothers James and John Harper started their book publishing business under the name J & J Harper. When two more brothers joined the rm in 1833, the name became Harper & Brothers. It expanded to publishing monthly magazines in 1850. Over the next 135 years, the company purchased other publishers and became one of the “big ve” publishers in New York City. News Corporation purchased Harper & Row in 1987 and William Collins & Sons in 1990, merging the publishers into today’s HarperCollins Publishers, which has since gone international.
18. Atkins & Pearce (1817)
Atkins & Pearce is in its seventh generation as a family-owned textile manufacturing company based in Kentucky. It began when John and Henry Pearce created an adaptation of the cotton gin and began manufacturing machinery in Cincinnati. Atkins & Pearce has played a part in history, including retooling operations during economic disruptions due to the Civil War and manufacturing parachute cords and materials during World War II. Now, Atkins & Pearce celebrates more than 200 years in business as an international company.
19. Brooks Brothers (1818)
Brooks Brothers is the oldest clothing retailer in America, dating back to 1818 — the same year Congress decided the ag should have 13 red and white stripes and 20 stars. e very rst Brooks Brothers store, known then as D. H. Brooks & Co., opened in New York on April 7 that year. e company introduced its rst readymade suits in 1849 and its original button-down polo shirt in 1896. e company now has more than 130 stores in the U.S. and more than 300 locations internationally. [Related article: How to Find a Factory to Manufacture Your Product]
20. Macy’s (1843)
Named R. H. Macy & Co. when founded in Boston, Macy’s has been going strong for a very long time. Rowland Hussey Macy started with four dry goods stores in 1843 and opened the original Macy’s store in downtown Haverhill, Massachusetts. e rst New York store opened in 1858 on Sixth Street and moved to its current headquarters on 34th and Broadway — now known worldwide — in 1902.
Known for its impressive window display and publicity activities to draw shoppers, Macy’s went nationwide in the 1990s. Despite recent earnings problems, Macy’s is working hard to stay in business by identifying with current consumers and upcoming generations of shoppers.
21. Pabst Brewing Company (1844)
e rst brewery in Milwaukee started as e Empire Brewery and then became Best and Company, named after founder Jacob Best. When Best died in 1889, his daughter’s husband, Frederick Pabst, took over and changed the name to Pabst Brewing Company. For more than 200 years, Pabst Blue Ribbon has been the brewery’s most famous beer.
By the way, the “blue ribbon” doesn’t refer to awards but to the blue ribbon that was tied around the bottle’s neck to separate it from its competitors.
Staying on Track When Markets Feel Uncertain YOUR
Geopolitical developments, economic policy changes, in ation data, and interest rate shifts regularly in uence the markets. While recent headlines may feel unsettling, market volatility is not unusual — and uncertainty has always been part of investing. What often matters most during these periods is not reacting to the news itself, but focusing on what you can control and ensuring your nancial plan continues to support your longterm goals.
Whether you’re early in your career, approaching retirement, or already drawing income from your portfolio, periods of market volatility can serve as a useful reminder to revisit your strategy and con rm it still aligns with your needs, priorities, and comfort level with risk.
If you’re decades from retirement. Market swings can feel uncomfortable, but they also provide an opportunity to reassess your perspective on risk. Investing always involves some degree of uncertainty, and how you react emotionally when markets move up or down can o er insight into whether your current portfolio still ts your risk tolerance. Taking time to re ect on that response can help ensure your strategy is appropriate for your circumstances.
With a longer time horizon, shortterm market uctuations often become less meaningful. Historically, markets have recovered from downturns over time, and what feels signi cant today may ultimately appear as a temporary setback in hindsight. Consistent investing, such as dollarcost averaging, can also help turn volatility into an advantage by spreading investments over time rather than trying to time the market.
If you’re nearing retirement. As retirement approaches, diversi cation becomes increasingly important.
Di erent asset classes and investment types often respond di erently to economic conditions, and a broadly diversi ed portfolio can help manage risk during periods of volatility. Reviewing your allocation across stocks, bonds, cash, and other investment vehicles can help ensure your portfolio re ects both your income needs and your comfort with market movement.
It’s also wise to consider how your investments are positioned for your upcoming expenses. Funds you expect to use in the early years of retirement may bene t from being invested more conservatively, while assets with a longer time horizon can remain focused on growth and keeping pace with in ation. Striking the right balance between protection and continued growth is key as you transition toward retirement.
If you’re already retired. Market volatility can feel especially personal once you’re relying on your savings for income. Reviewing your withdrawal strategy during uncertain markets can help protect your longterm
nancial security. If your portfolio experiences decline, it may be worth reassessing how much you’re withdrawing to ensure your income remains sustainable over time.
While equities may still play a role during a retirement that could last several decades, preserving your savings base is critical. Evaluating your stock exposure within the context of your overall nancial plan can help ensure you’re not taking unnecessary risk while still allowing your portfolio the potential to grow over the long term.
Regardless of where you are in your nancial journey, market movement provides an opportunity to step back and compare your investment strategy to your goals. Are you still on track? Even if the answer feels uncertain, there are steps you can take to regain clarity and con dence. Working with a nancial advisor can help you stay focused, adapt to changing conditions, and move forward with a plan designed to support your nancial goals — even when the markets feel unpredictable.
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 nancial 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. © 2026 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
Lois | Actual patient
LEGACY FILES
Questions to Ask Your Estate Planning Attorney
By: Rilus M. Dana
Creating an estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and preserve your wishes. However, choosing the right attorney to guide you through the process matters just as much as the plan itself.
Estate planning often involves personal decisions, nancial details, and sensitive family conversations. Asking the right questions can help you nd an attorney who is experienced, responsive, and prepared to support your long-term goals.
Below are important questions to ask when searching for help with your estate plan.
Focused Field: “Do you do trust administration and probate work?”
One of the best ways to evaluate an estate planning attorney is to ask whether they also handle trust administration and probate matters.
An attorney who both creates and administers trusts often has a deeper understanding of how estate plans function in real-life situations. Experience with probate and trust administration can help identify common issues and create plans designed to avoid unnecessary complications for loved ones later.
Choosing someone who regularly works in estate planning, rather than simply as part of a broader legal practice, can provide added con dence that your plan is practical and e ective.
Client-Centered: “What does good customer service mean to you?”
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, which makes communication and support especially important.
A strong estate planning attorney should value clear communication, timely responses, and accessibility. Ask how clients are supported when the attorney is unavailable and whether sta members assist with questions or updates throughout the process.
Good customer service often means helping clients feel informed and comfortable during di cult
conversations, simplifying complex decisions, and creating an experience that feels manageable rather than stressful.
Paperless Solutions: “Do you include digital asset language in your estate planning documents?”
Much of modern life exists online. Financial records, email accounts, subscriptions, and important documents are often stored digitally.
For this reason, it is important to ask whether an estate plan includes instructions regarding digital assets. A well-prepared plan should help trustees or agents access necessary information securely if you become incapacitated or pass away.
Including digital asset language can help ensure important information is not overlooked or inaccessible when loved ones need it most.
Trust Funding: “Do you set aside time to help me fund my trust?”
Creating a trust is only part of the process. Assets must also be properly transferred into the trust, a step known as trust funding.
If this process is incomplete, certain assets may still need to pass through probate despite having a trust in place. Ask whether your attorney provides guidance to help align your legal documents with your nancial
accounts and property ownership.
A properly funded trust helps ensure your estate plan works as intended.
Document Storage: “Do you have a way to access original documents online?”
Easy access to important documents can make a major di erence during emergencies or life transitions.
Ask whether your attorney provides digital storage or secure access to estate planning documents. Having reliable access to wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and supporting paperwork can make administration easier for both you and your loved ones.
Making an estate plan can feel challenging. It often requires discussing nances, family dynamics, and end-of-life wishes. Working with an attorney who is experienced in estate planning and probate, provides guidance through trust funding, and understands the importance of technology can help make the process smoother and less stressful.
Asking thoughtful questions before hiring an attorney can provide clarity, con dence, and peace of mind for the future.
- Rilus M. Dana, J.D., is the Managing Partner at Rilus Law, formerly Dana and Associates.
A Brief History of the Internal Revenue Service
By Ken Weinstock, CPA, Leisure World resident
Some people think of the IRS as a monolithic government organization headquartered in Washington, DC. But it’s really made up of many regular people all over the country working at civil service jobs, like people who work at post o ces, airports, and national parks. But it wasn’t always like that. Let’s begin with a little history.
Humble Beginnings
Back in 1789, less than two years after the Constitution of the United States was written, and just about six months after it became e ective, e Department of the Treasury opened its doors with Alexander Hamilton as the rst Secretary of the Treasury. In addition to managing the nances 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 tari s, which are taxes on imports and exports. is system worked well enough for the new country, but there were disagreements. Some people preferred high tari s and some people preferred low tari s 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 not bringing in enough money to pay the bills. e Revenue Acts of 1861 and 1862 instituted an income tax for the rst time in the history of the country. e Commissioner of Internal Revenue was created at that time as part of the Treasury Department. Money was collected to fund the war e ort, but after about ten years, the laws that created the income tax expired. So
Congress passed new income tax laws. Unfortunately, these laws did not last long. e Supreme Court decided that income taxes were unconstitutional unless the taxes were apportioned to the various states. is put a damper on the federal government collecting income taxes for its own use.
The Sixteenth Amendment to The Rescue
e Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution was passed by Congress in 1909. It states: e 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 rati ed the amendment so that the era of modern income taxes was nally 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
In 1953 the Bureau of Internal Revenue was reorganized and renamed the Internal Revenue Service. US government taxes became more organized and e cient. Tax collectors who had been political appointees were replaced by civil servants. Instead of centralized o ces located in Washington D.C, district o ces were set up throughout the country. e IRS began to focus on customer service and helping taxpayers to understand and comply with tax law.
e IRS Mission: Provide America’s taxpayers topquality service by helping them understand and meet their tax responsibilities and enforce the law with integrity and fairness to all.
In 2014 the IRS adopted the Taxpayer Bill of Rights and Congress codi ed it into law in 2015. It applies to
all taxpayers in their dealings with the IRS.
Taxpayer Bill of Rights
1. e Right to Be Informed
2. e Right to Quality Service
3. e Right to Pay No More than the Correct Amount of Tax
4. e Right to Challenge the IRS’s Position and Be Heard
5. e Right to Appeal an IRS Decision in an Independent Forum
6. e Right to Finality
7. e Right to Privacy
8. e Right to Con dentiality
9. e Right to Retain Representation
10. e Right to a Fair and Just Tax System
Taxpayer Advocate Service
e Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the IRS. ey o er free assistance to help you with tax issues that you can’t resolve on your own:
• To assist you if you are experiencing nancial hardship
• If you need help in resolving tax problems that you have not been able to resolve with the IRS
• If you believe that an IRS system or procedure is not working as well as it should
You can reach the Taxpayer Advocate Service at www. taxpayeradvocate.irs.gov or by calling 1-877-7774778.
ere’s always room for improvement, but the IRS has come a long way from its humble beginnings almost 240 years ago. If you would like to know more, the IRS website: www.irs.gov has a lot of helpful information.
LIFE TRIBUTES
Erwin “Kal” Palmer
June 10, 1936 – May 16, 2026
Erwin “Kal” Palmer, 89, of Mesa, Arizona, passed away on May 16, 2026, at the Sherman Hospice House in Phoenix.
Kal was born on June 10, 1936, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, to Elmer and Mary Palmer. He graduated from Eaton Rapids High School in 1955. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he served as a medic and
Kelly Ann Redding
Kelly Ann Redding was a devoted wife, loving mother, grammy, sister and loyal friend. She left this world suddenly on June 8th, 2026 at the age of 67.
Born in South Carolina, Kelly was immediately adopted by Donald W. Willsey and Barbara “Sue” Willsey, two immensely loving parents who Kelly
Shirley Strunk
Shirley Strunk, passed away on May 8th, 2026, at the age of 97.
Shirley and her late husband, Don, purchased their home in Leisure World in April of 1989. ey had been motor homing to Arizona, from Seattle, for the past ve years and Shirley decided it was time to say goodbye to the rainy Seattle weather for good. While Don was out gol ng one day, Shirley went on a house hunting excursion. She originally found AGR and thought she had the perfect home for the two of them, however the owners insisted on selling it furnished and she had no intention of buying their “old furniture.” So
operating room specialist from September 1956 until February 1962. During his service, he married Ina Claymore of South Dakota on July 31, 1959.
Following his military discharge, Kal pursued further education and career path. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas at El Paso in May 1967 and a Master of Business Administration from the University of New Mexico in June 1971. He worked as a government auditor until his retirement from Sandia National Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Over his lifetime, he resided in El Paso, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Mesa, Arizona (Leisure World).
An avid golfer, Kal was also highly active in local organizations. He served the Leisure World Community Association as Treasurer and a member of the Board
truly adored. She spent her upbringing in Kansas City - a place full of fond memories, family and friends and the place she always called home (Go Chiefs).
As a nurse, Kelly devoted her career to caring for those in need. She approached her work with kindness, professionalism, and genuine compassion for every person she encountered. Her commitment to serving others re ected the generous spirit that de ned her life. Most of her near 40 year nursing career was spent at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Phoenix, where her decades of service was recently recognized by her receiving the Daisy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Above all else, Kelly loved her family. She found immense joy in spending time with her loved ones and took pride in supporting and caring for them. Kelly is
she saw the big “Globe” across the street and went to the L.W. Realty O ce. With Don’s voice of demands ringing in her ears, not on the golf course and no more than two bedrooms so all the kids couldn’t visit at once, she found their forever home. Before the day was done, she and Don were proud homeowners of Leisure World and never looked back.
ey drove their motor home back to Seattle; put all of their possessions, house, car, motor home, etc.) up for sale and by August they were living in Leisure World wondering what they had just done when the weather hit 120+ degrees.
In a relatively short period of time Shirley found herself a great group of ladies to golf with on, what was then called the “Little Course,” and Don found an equally great group of guys to golf with on the “Big Course.” eir days and weeks were lled with gol ng, cocktail parties, socializing, and entertaining with a vast assortment of people from all over the country and Canada who became their dear friends.
of Directors as Chairman of District 8 from 2007 to 2010. Additionally, he was a member of the New MexiChords.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his older sister, Imogene Zimmerman (1928-2020).
He is survived by his two children, Phillip Palmer of Chula Vista, CA and Sydney Duke of Phoenix, AZ; ve grandchildren, Samuel Duke, Amanda Palmer, Bryan Palmer, Nicolette Real and Vanessa Enriquez; and one great-granddaughter, Annalisa Enriquez.
An Interment Ceremony with full military honors will take place at Prescott National Cemetery in October 2026. Arrangements are under the direction of Whitney & Murphey Funeral Home in Phoenix, AZ.
survived by her beloved husband, Charlie; her brothers Phil and Joel (Connie), her children, Adam (Danielle) and Sarah - along with her bonus children; Matt, Lori, Danny, Shannon, Chris, and Patrick.
Her sel ess nature, warming smile, and radical generosity is gone too soon, but will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. We will all cherish her memory forever.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20th, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Redemption Church Arcadia, 3330 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85018, with a nearby reception to follow. e family welcomes all who knew and loved Kelly to join them in celebrating her remarkable life and the legacy of love and service she leaves behind.
Shirley served as President of the 18-hole Ladies Club in 1994, on what became, Heron Lakes. In 2016, she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease but managed to continue her gol ng two or three times a week up until late 2020.
In her late 70’s she learned to play bridge, so thankfully when her gol ng days were over, she had a new passion and a great group of ladies in her bridge circle.
Leisure World and everything the community had to o er truly ended up being the perfect place for both Shirley and Don to spend their retirement years.
Shirley was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Don, and her youngest son, Rob, who was also a L.W. resident. She is survived by her oldest child Gary Strunk {wife Julie) and her daughter Sue Kirkland, both of whom reside in Leisure World. ere was nothing more important to Shirley than family and she was blessed with their love until her nal days.
David “Dave” Jonathan Speyer
November 15, 1946 – June 4, 2026
David “Dave” Jonathan Speyer, 79, passed away on June 4, 2026. Born on November 15, 1946, in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania.
A veteran of the U.S. Army, Mr. Speyer served during the Vietnam War and was stationed in both Pennsylvania and Italy. Following his military service, he worked as a certi ed automotive technician and was the independent owner and operator of his own business for many years.
An active member of the Leisure World community, Mr. Speyer was a daily swimmer, a member of the Leisure World Gun Club, the Leisure World Bible Study group, and served for many years as the Vice President of the Republican Club. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Speyer; and a sister, Joyce Speyer.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, JoAnn (Broome) Speyer, whom he married on October 8, 1966. He is also survived by his son, Peter Speyer; two granddaughters, Breanna and Autumn Speyer.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. in the Leisure World Ballroom, Mesa, Arizona. Community members, friends, and family are invited to attend.
Sarah Farrokh, PA-C
Katrina McDaniel, PA-C
Justin Sawyer, MD
Daniel Skinner, MD
RECREATION, FITNESS AND GOLF
Celebrating America’s 250th at Leisure World
Celebrate the summer with a special Independence Day themed trivia. Exciting prizes will be available for trivia winners, so bring your patriotic spirit and get ready for some fun. The game will end just in time for all to step outside and enjoy our America 250 Fireworks Show.
Date: Thursday, July 2nd Time: Game start at 7:00PM Firework Show starts at 8:30 PM
Am
ica
250: Firework Show
In honor of America’s 250th birthday, join us for a sparkling night under the lights. The show will take place between the 13th & 14th fairways behind the fitness center. Please bring your own chair or golf cart for the firework show, as seating will not be provided.
When: Thursday, July 2nd Time: Show starts at 8:30PM.
Join us as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in style at our festive “John Hancock’s’ After Party!”, this special evening is part of our community’s tribute to this historic milestone.
Snap some memorable photos at our themed photo stations & explore a charming mini museum with pieces inspired by the Revolutionary era. Savor classic BBQ favorites, tap your feet (or hit the dance floor!) to great music, and spend the evening connecting with friends old and new. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or the dancing, this is one celebration you won’t want to miss!
Date: July 4th, 2026
Where: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Room Band: Midnight Confessions Time: 5:30 P.M. Dinner - 6:00 P.M. Dance Price: $35 Per Ticket
Get ready for an afternoon of laughter, sweet treats, and great company at our hilarious performance by comedian Jenny Locklin while enjoying delicious apple pie à la mode served fresh for all residents. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer together! Ladies, bring your purse! No, you aren’t going to be asked to spend money- it’s for a game.
When: July 16th, 2026
Where: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima
Time: 02:00PM – 04:00PM Cost: $6 in advance, $8 at the door
If you would like more info on any of the following events, please contact the Recreation Office
RECREATION: Regular Events You Love! BINGO
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
Community Happy Hour
Community Happy Hour is a great way to meet your neighbors and hang out with friends. With a rotating schedule of Resident Volunteer DJ’s, it 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 10th
Times: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Clubroom
Trivia Night
Gather with your friends and neighbors to test your knowledge and expand your brain! 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: July 8th & 22nd
Time: 06:00 p.m.- 08:30PM
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Cost: $2 per person
RECREATION: July Club Events
“Hooter’s Blues Jam!”
Don’t miss out on this fun evening! Hooter is known for inviting fellow musicians to play with his band. There’ll be a sign-up sheet and during certain ‘sets’ —- people will be invited to join the band on stage! There’s plenty of room for dancing and grooving. BYOB, grab some old friends, make some new ones and enjoy an evening of unmistakable talent! Who doesn’t love a good blues night?!
Date: Tuesday, July 21st
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Place: Rec. 1 Clubroom
Cost: $6 tickets from the Rec. office in advance
Come listen to your favorite tunes or dance the night away with DJ Steve. Water and Ice Provided | BYOB | Optional Potluck
Date: Saturday, July 25th
Time: 04:30PM - 08:30PM
Place: Rec 2 Hopi/Pima
Cost: $6 tickets from the Rec. office in advance Grub & Groove
COMMUNITY DANCE PARTIES
August Dance Party!
Flashback Cadillac
Date:
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 5th
Maddie’s dream guy is days away from marrying her best friend when a wish for true love made on an ancient stone in Ireland magically alters her fate. July 12th
Her childhood lies shattered lives. Years later, in war-torn London, a young woman seeks atonement for the damage done. Based on the novel by Ian McEwan
After learning that she has terminal cancer, a spirited young woman thinks she’s finished with love forever – but her heart has other ideas.
Clark Gable/Burt Lancaster
Run Silent, Run Deep is a World War II submarine drama that follows Commander ‘Rich’ Richardson, who, after losing his submarine to a Japanese destroyer, is assigned to a desk job. Haunted by the loss and driven by revenge, he becomes fixated on the destroyer he nicknames ‘Bungo Pete’. When given the chance to command another submarine, he faces challenges with his crew and the obsession that drives him to seek vengeance against the enemy.
July 21st | 06:00PM | Rec. 1 Theater
2026-2027 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!
Annie
October 29th | 07:30PM
Leapin’ Lizards! It’s a hard-knock life for clever redheaded orphan Annie who, more than anything, just wants a mom and dad. A close escape and stroke of luck pairs her with billionaire Daddy Warbucks who pulls out all the stops to help Annie find her family. Hear showstoppers like “Tomorrow,” “Easy Street” and many more in this family favorite musical.
A Christmas Carol
December 3rd | 05:00PM
A Hale Holiday Classic! Our spectacular, heart-warming version of Dickens’ classic tale of redemption is magically brought to life on the Hale Stage. This production is rich with traditional carols, stunning costumes, and memorable characters that are guaranteed to enrich the holiday season for you and your family. Now celebrating its 24th year in Gilbert!
Clue
January 21st, 2027| 07:30PM
On a dark and stormy night, six eccentric guests—Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock, and Mustard—gather at Boddy Manor for a mysterious dinner party… and their host ends up dead. In Clue, based on the classic board game, the suspects scramble to uncover the killer in this fast-paced comedy full of twists and laughs!
Oklahoma
Februuary 19th, 2027| 07:30PM
Experience the high-spirited rivalry between local farmers and cowboys in this Rodgers and Hammerstein masterpiece. Set in a turn-of-the-century terriorty, this soaring adventure follows Curly and Laurey as they find love on the frontier. With unforgettable songs like "Oklahoma", "Oh What a Beautiful Morning," "Surrey with
the Fringe on the Top, " and more!
March 16th, 2027| 07:30PM
Nunsense
After 52 poor sisters are accidentally poisoned by the convent cook, The Little Sisters of Hoboken stage a talent show in or der to raise the money to bury their dearly departed. With ballet, tap dancing, semi-professional circus performing and more! You won’t want to miss this wacky and outrageous madcap musical comedy!
Damn Yankees
April 15th, 2027| 07:30PM
Winner of 7 Tony Awards, Damn Yankees is a devilishly funny twist on the Faust legend. Frustrated fan Joe Boyd sells his soul to the Devil to become a star slugger and finally beat the Yankees—but is glory worth the price? Featuring hits like “Whatever Lola Wants,” and “You Gotta Have a Heart,” this classic is a home run for sports fans and skeptics alike.
TBD
May 27th, 2027| 07:30PM
A Musical Treat for the Family! This production will be announced on January 14, 2027.
2026-2027 Season Tickets Info
RENEWAL: 2025-2026 Season Ticket Holders will had the opportunity to get their same seats from Mon., March 2Fri., March 13. Thank you to our pass holders who renewed!
2026-2027 Performing Arts Series Performing Arts Shows
of being the first American band EVER to chart albums in Billboard’s Pop Top 40 over six consecutive decades. Their musical vision and influence was felt over multiple generations which is why Ultimate Chicago has assembled some of the finest musicians to re-create all of the excitement, energy and nostalgia that comes with a live performance of Chicago‘s iconic music. From soaring guitar solos to punctuated full horn section features, this 90-minute show features upbeat hits such as Saturday In The Park and Beginnings as well as chart-topping ballads including Hard Habit To Break and If You Leave Me Now.
Mar 1, 2027
SEASON PASS GENERAL SALES: Starting on March 16th, all remaining seats will be released and will be open seating for those who would like to be new season ticket holders or would like to change their seats from last year. This can be done through LWCA.com, or via the Rec. Office.
Remaining Season Passes: Mon., Mar. 16 - Fri., Sept. 4
Individual Ticket Sales: October 5th, 2026
Nov 16, 2026 PRESEASON
Project Presley starring Chance Tinder is a multi-awardwinning Elvis Presley tribute band, out of Las Vegas, and has been hailed as the “Southwest’s Premier” Elvis celebration. Its frontman, Chance Tinder, is an accomplished actor & entertainer with over 30 years in the Elvis Entertainment Business. Chance and Project Presley’s secret is believing that the most important thing is accurately portraying the man and his music… Not necessarily as an “re-creation / impersonation”, but rather as an honest “musical celebration” to THE KING himself.
Dec 14, 2026 PRESEASON
Abba Holly Jolly Christmas
The cast of ABBAFAB (America’s #1 tribute to ABBA) bring you an unforgettable night of your favorite Christmas songs, with some of ABBA’s greatest hits sprinkled on top. This show features an incredible 9-piece band, who recreate ABBA’s iconic sound so closely, you will believe that every Christmas song you hear was recorded by ABBA themselves! This spectacular production features brandnew arrangements of some of the most timeless Christmas hits ever written. With classics like Let It Snow, Dancing Queen, White Christmas, Mamma Mia, O Holy Night, Santa Claus is Coming To Town, and many more, this fun and unique show is a surefire way to send you back in time and get you into the holiday spirit!
Jan 4, 2027
Ultimate Chicago
Ivan Pecel
Jan 18, 2027
TOBY: The Experience
Get ready for a wild ride through the heart and soul of country music with TOBY, the ultimate tribute to the bad boy of country music, Toby Keith! This electrifying show is guaranteed to leave audiences on their feet, singing along to hit after hit of great country music, all brought to life by the one and only Hollywood Yates! The air pulsates with anticipation as Hollywood Yates takes center stage, belting out country music anthems that have become the soundtrack to countless lives. Sing your heart out to timeless classics like “How Do You Like Me Now,” “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” and “I Love This Bar,” feeling every word resonate deep within your soul.
February 1, 2027
This show is an explosive celebration of the iconic music of Jimmy Buffett, featuring all of his greatest hits that will have you singing along and dancing in your seat. With a band that is as talented as it is passionate, you’ll be treated to a performance that captures the essence of Buffett’s music and the lifestyle it embodies.
Feb 15, 2027
Hearts Desire
Get ready to rock with Hearts Desire, the premier tribute to the legendary band Heart! Fronted by the dynamic duo of Victoria Fairclough and Kelly Anne Gower, their electrifying performances deliver powerful harmonies and captivating energy that bring Heart’s iconic songs to life.
From classic hits like “Barracuda” and “Crazy on You” to emotional ballads like “Alone,” Victoria and Kelly create an unforgettable night filled with nostalgia and excitement. Backed by an all-star band, including Aaron Bigsby, John Lewis, and more!
Leave every notion of what you “thought” a juggler was at the door. Based in Los Angeles, CA, Ivan brings the term “High Energy” to an entirely different level by delivering an unforgettable show, unlike anything you have seen before. As funny as a standup comic, and as skilled as a Chinese acrobat, Ivan has appeared on MTV, America’s Got Talent, and the “Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” He will have you laughing in one moment and amazed in the next!
Mar 15, 2027
Ronstadt: The Tribute
A native of Tucson, Arizona, Linda Ronstadt is recognized as one of the most important and popular interpretive singers of the ’70s, having earned a succession of platinum-selling albums and chart-topping singles. Featuring a beautiful selection of Linda’s biggest rock hits from the 70’s, her alternative country hits, big band/jazz songs, and her softer 80’s rock ballads, this show will have you singing and swaying along, as you are dazzled by the velvety voice of Kelly Anne Gower. This is the tribute you have been waiting for, so get ready for the musical journey of a lifetime!
Prices: Ticket Prices for individual shows and season passes will be increasing to support the continued quality of entertainment at Leisure World.
Individual Tickets
Section 1 — $37
Section 2 — $35
Section 3 — $33
Section 4 — $31
6-Show Packages
Section 1 — $186
Section 2 — $174
Section 3 — $162
Section 4 — $150
8-Show Packages
(Includes 2 Pre-Season Shows)
Section 1 — $222
Section 2 — $208
Section 3 — $194
Section 4 — $180
SUNMONTUESWEDTHURSFRISAT
TRIPS AND TOURS: KINDRED, PREMIER, ETC.
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.
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.
JULY
Snowbowl’s Scenic Gondola Ride
July 7 | Tuesday | $129
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!
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 multicolored 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!
Majestic Canadian Rockies
Featuring Five Nights in Banff
Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks
July 22-25, 2026 | $949 pp/ Double Occupancy | $1,218 pp/Single Occupancy
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 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
National Park
July 26–31, 2026
$4,349 pp/double | $5,649 pp/single | Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
Les Misérables at Phoenix
Theatre
July 30 | Thursday | $139
Winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Les Misérables returns to the stage in a powerful production filled with unforgettable music, sweeping emotion, and timeless storytelling. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, this beloved musical follows stories of courage, sacrifice, redemption, and love that have captivated audiences around the world for decades.
Featuring iconic songs such as I Dreamed a Dream, On My Own, and One Day More, Les Misérables remains one of the most celebrated and moving musicals ever written. Whether you’re experiencing it for the first time or returning to a longtime favorite, this promises to be an unforgettable afternoon at Phoenix Theatre Company. Before the performance, we’ll enjoy lunch on self at Miracle Mile Deli, a longtime Valley favorite known for hearty sandwiches, classic comfort food, and oldschool deli charm.
Exploring Strawberry & Pine
July 31 | Friday | $142
Escape the Valley and enjoy a relaxing summer day in the charming mountain communities of Strawberry and Pine. Nestled along Arizona’s scenic Mogollon Rim, these neighboring towns offer rich history, towering pines, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the desert below.
Our day begins with time at PIEbar, a beloved local gathering place known for its handmade empanadas, mini pies, specialty drinks, and welcoming
mountain-town atmosphere. We’ll then step back in time with a visit to the historic Strawberry Schoolhouse, the oldest standing schoolhouse in Arizona. A docentled presentation brings to life the stories of the students, teachers, and pioneer families who helped shape this rugged region. Next, explore the Strawberry Museum, where exhibits, artifacts, and photographs highlight the area’s ranching, pioneer, and Native American heritage. Following our morning discoveries, we’ll enjoy an included lunch at the popular Old County Inn in Pine. Known for its woodfired pizza, scratch-made favorites, and rustic mountain setting, it’s the perfect place to relax beneath the pines before our scenic drive home. Join us for a refreshing getaway filled with local history, mountain scenery, and the unique character of Arizona’s Rim Country.
AUGUST
escape to the cool pines of Flagstaff for an unforgettable overnight getaway featuring a special evening at the renowned Lowell Observatory. Combining mountain scenery, great dining, and one of the finest astronomy experiences in the country, this unique tour offers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
Day One: Our journey begins with a scenic drive north through Arizona’s changing landscapes as we climb into the cool mountain air of Flagstaff. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in historic downtown Flagstaff, where lunch is on your own and a variety of local restaurants, cafés, shops, galleries, and bookstores await exploration. Later this afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel and enjoy time to relax before gathering for an included Welcome Dinner at Fat Olives, a local favorite known for its inviting atmosphere, wood-fired pizzas, house-made pastas, and fresh Italian-inspired cuisine.
Lowell Observatory Overnight August 17-18, 2026 | $329 pp/ double | $390 single Occupancy Leave the Valley heat behind and
This evening, experience the wonders of the universe during a visit to Lowell Observatory, one of America’s most celebrated astronomical institutions. Founded in 1894 and famously known as the place where Pluto was discovered,
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
KEY CODES: Kindred Tours (KT) ¤ Leisure World Recreation (LW) ¤ Premier World Discovery (PWD)
Discover the legendary Clark Telescope at Lowell Observatory, a historic 24-inch refractor built in 1895. Learn how this iconic instrument revolutionized astronomy and inspired generations of scientists and space exploration.. Photo courtesy Lowell Observatory.
Lowell combines scientific history with cutting-edge visitor experiences. Explore the impressive Marley Foundation Astronomy Discovery Center, featuring interactive exhibits, immersive presentations, and engaging opportunities to learn about our universe. Highlights include the Universe Theater, the open-air Dark Sky Planetarium, the Orbits Curiosity Zone, and the fascinating Stardust Lab. We’ll also enjoy the captivating Strange New Worlds presentation, which explores the search for planets beyond our solar system and the possibility of life elsewhere in the cosmos. Under Flagstaff’s exceptionally dark skies, guests will have the opportunity to experience the night sky through powerful telescopes while learning from Lowell’s knowledgeable staff. It is an inspiring and memorable evening unlike any other in Arizona. Following our observatory visit, we’ll return to the hotel for a restful overnight stay.
Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel before we begin our journey home. Traveling through the spectacular Oak Creek Canyon, one of Arizona’s most scenic drives, we’ll enjoy beautiful red rock vistas and relaxing stops along the way before returning to the Valley in the early afternoon.
Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway
August 24 | Monday | $119
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 five rugged Santa Catalina Mountains into a much cooler climate. Along the way there are many pulloff 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. A charming eatery famous for their delicious homemade chili and cornbread, the Iron Door also offers a variety of fresh salads, artisan sandwiches, soups and fresh-baked pies. 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.
Tandem to Gaslight: Gnatman
August 30 | Sunday | $159
We’re heading south for a funfilled day in Tucson that blends great food with lively entertainment— Kindred style. Our day begins at Tandem American Eatery, a guest favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and elevated comfort cuisine. Enjoy an included brunch before the afternoon’s entertainment. From there, we’re off to the iconic Gaslight Theatre for Gnatman, a hilarious musical comedy adventure. Mammoth City thought the sinister Jester was safely behind bars—but when he escapes and teams up with the notorious Legion of E.V.I.L., Gnatman faces his greatest challenge yet. Can he save the city once again, or will he need help from a very unlikely source? Cheer the hero and boo the villain in true Gaslight fashion— where musical comedy melodramas have delighted audiences since 1977 and the audience is part of the show. During the performance, enjoy diner-style milkshakes, adult beverages, and fantastic desserts served right to your seat. The Gaslight experience is an absolute blast, and this tour is always very popular—so don’t wait to reserve your spot!
UPCOMING TRIPS
Canyon Country: Horseshoe Bend Rafting & Upper Antelope Canyon
September 29 – October 1, 2026
$799 pp/double | +$225 single supplement
Day One: Arrival in Page
We’ll leave the Valley this morning as we head north toward the cool mountain air of Flagstaff. Late morning, we’ll enjoy lunch on self in historic downtown Flagstaff, where a wide variety of local restaurants, cafés, and familiar favorites offer something for everyone. After lunch, we’ll take time to explore the charming streets— lined with galleries, bookshops, and interesting local stores—before continuing north. As the scenery opens to wide desert vistas and striking rock formations, we’ll make our scenic drive to Page, where the Colorado River meets Lake Powell. By late afternoon, we’ll check into the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page–Lake Powell, our home for the next two nights. After time to relax, we’ll head out for dinner on self at The Dam Bar & Grille, a longtime local favorite known for classic comfort dishes in a casual setting. Enjoy a free evening afterward.
Day Two: Colorado River Rafting Adventure & Dinner
Breakfast is included at the hotel before we set out for one of the most memorable experiences of the tour. This morning we’ll travel to Lee’s Ferry to begin our Horseshoe Bend Raft Trip, operated by Wilderness River Adventures. This smooth-water float offers a wonderfully relaxing way to experience the dramatic beauty of the Colorado River and Glen Canyon—perfect for travelers seeking adventure without whitewater. After a short scenic drive, we’ll board a comfortable motorized pontoon raft for approximately three hours on the river. Towering sandstone cliffs rise more than a thousand feet above us, creating a peaceful yet awe-inspiring setting. Along the way, professional guides share engaging narration about the region’s geology, Indigenous history, and early river exploration. We’ll pass petroglyph sites, watch for wildlife, and enjoy unforgettable views as the river winds toward the iconic curve of Horseshoe Bend—all from the calm comfort of the raft. Lunch and bottled water are included today. A boxed lunch from Subway will be enjoyed onboard the pontoons, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery without interruption. Later this afternoon, we’ll return to the hotel with time to refresh before heading out for a group dinner, included, to cap off a memorable day.
Day Three: Upper Antelope Canyon & Journey Home
Breakfast is included at the hotel before we set out for an unforgettable morning exploring some of the most iconic scenery in the Southwest. Today we’ll visit Upper Antelope Canyon, located on Navajo land and accessible only by guided tour. Known as the more accessible of the two canyons, Upper Antelope Canyon features a flat, sandy floor with no stairs, making it easier to navigate while still offering a truly breathtaking experience.
Since 1977, The Gaslight Theatre has provided Tucson the finest family entertainment in Arizona. Cheer the hero and Boo the villain while enjoying your favorite beer or soft drink, pizza, ice cream, and mountains of free popcorn!They have musical comedy melodramas 6 nights a week, and 5 different shows per year. Photo Courtesy Gaslight Theatre.
for lunch on self at Cameron Trading Post, where the expansive menu offers something for everyone and there’s time to browse Native American arts and gifts. We’ll then continue home with scenic stops along the way, arriving back in the Valley by early evening.
New England Rails & Trails
Featuring Boston, the Mount Washington Cog Railway & a Casco Bay Cruise
October 3-11, 2026 | $4,925 pp/double | $6,375 pp/single | Includes Roundtrip Airfare PHX
Call us for the full itinerary.
built in 1896. The restaurant—housed in the original trading post building— serves traditional Native American dishes alongside classic American favorites. Day Three: Breakfast is included at the hotel. After breakfast, jeeps will arrive to take us on a half-day tour of Canyon de Chelly. Our Navajo guides will lead us through the canyon, sharing the cultural significance of man-made structures and symbols while highlighting the area’s natural wonders.
Monument Valley & Canyon de Chelly
October 5th–7th, 2026
$999 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $215 (Single Supplement)
Day One: We’ll travel north with a stop for lunch, on self, at Cameron Trading Post. A haven for travelers since 1916, this historic trading post features an expansive dining room with a huge stone fireplace and tall picture windows overlooking the Little Colorado River Gorge. We’ll enjoy the warm ambience along with a terrific menu that ranges from burgers and salads to regional specialties. After lunch, we’ll explore the Grand Canyon via the East Entrance at Desert View, offering a unique opportunity to visit the world-famous Desert View Watchtower. From here, we’ll continue on to beautiful Monument Valley and check into our rooms at Goulding’s Lodge. After some time to refresh, we’ll gather for a fabulous Welcome Dinner. This extraordinary evening includes a traditional Navajo storyteller while we enjoy a delicious Navajo taco buffet featuring homemade frybread and all the fixings, included.
Heavy-duty six-wheel-drive touring vehicles equipped with padded seats provide a comfortable ride. The tour makes frequent stops for photo opportunities as we visit ancient sites, Navajo farms, and remarkable rock art. After the tour, we’ll return to the hotel for a buffet-style lunch featuring all-American favorites, included. Following lunch, we’ll board our Transits and begin the journey home, enjoying scenic stops and interesting sights along the way. We hope you’ll join us for this remarkable journey through some of the most iconic landscapes of the American Southwest
Las Vegas Lights & Legends
Featuring The Wizard of Oz at Sphere and Cirque du Soleil’s “O” October 20th–22nd, 2026
$1,199 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $95 (Single Supplement)
We’re going again! After four incredible, sold-out runs, we’ve fine-tuned every detail of this Las Vegas getaway. We know the timing, the best seating, the smoothest transitions—and it shows. Our travelers have had an absolute blast, and this tour just keeps getting better each time we go. If you missed out before, this is your opportunity to join us this October and lock in this year’s pricing. Call us for the full itinerary.
Thanksgiving in New York City
Featuring the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade & the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
November 23rd–27th, 2026
$3,659 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $1,199 (Single Supplement)
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
New Orleans Holiday
Featuring the French Quarter, Oak Alley Plantation & Celebration in the Oaks
December 1st–5th, 2026
$3,149 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $700 (Single Supplement)
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix
Call us for the full itinerary.
Discover Japan by Bullet Train featuring Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima & Osaka
Pageant of the Masters: The Greatest of All Time
Featuring the Getty Center
August 10–13, 2026 | $1,199 pp/double | $1,449 pp/single Call us for the full itinerary.
As you consider this experience, it’s helpful to know that while the walking is relatively easy, the canyon can be sandy and uneven in spots, and tours move at a steady pace. All travelers should be comfortable completing approximately one mile of walking within an hour. Our local Navajo guides will lead the way, sharing insights into the canyon’s formation and helping point out some of the most striking features along the route. Travelers with mobility concerns are encouraged to call the office prior to booking to ensure this experience is a good fit.
Following our canyon experience, we’ll begin our journey home with a stop
Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel. Later, we’ll set off on a 2.5-hour jeep tour covering more than 30 miles of secluded backcountry to discover the restricted areas of Monument Valley—a sacred homeland to the Navajo, who are the Keepers of Monument Valley. Along the way, we’ll learn about the history of the Ancestral Puebloans, early Native American peoples known for their petroglyphs, pictographs, and remarkable cliff dwellings. We’ll visit the valley’s most famous monoliths including The Mittens, John Ford’s Point, Three Sisters, North Window, Totem Pole, Yei Bi Cheis, and Artist’s Point—iconic landscapes that served as backdrops for Hollywood Westerns such as Stagecoach, The Searchers, How the West Was Won, and many more. Afterward, we’ll enjoy lunch on self before boarding our Transits for the journey to Canyon de Chelly and the historic Thunderbird Lodge, owned and operated by the Navajo Nation. This charming property will serve as our cozy headquarters for the night. After time to refresh, we’ll set out for our own scenic driving exploration along the South Rim of Canyon de Chelly. Later, we’ll return to the lodge for dinner on self. Thunderbird Lodge sits on the site of a trading post
May 6 – 17, 2027 | $8,899 pp/double | +$1,000 single| Includes Roundtrip Airfare from PHX
Call us for the full itinerary.
Premier World Discovery
Premier World Discovery specializes in escorted group tours designed for active adult travelers seeking enriching experiences, exceptional value, and worry-free planning. Tours feature dedicated expert Tour Directors, quality accommodations, breakfast and additional select meals, deluxe transportation, sightseeing, and unique cultural experiences that bring each destination to life. For those not residing in Arizona full-time, or for any friends and family members who would like to travel with you, packages can be updated to provide roundtrip air from alternate US gateways.
Smoky Mountain & Pigeon Forge Holiday
December 6th-December 10th, 2026
$3,099pp/dbl occupancy
Celebrate the holiday season in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy festive lights, seasonal entertainment, Southern hospitality, and the charming mountain town of Pigeon Forge while experiencing the magic of the Christmas Season at Dollywood.
Fantastic Florida & The Keys
February 25th-March 4th, 2027
$4,799pp/dbl occupancy
Escape to the gentle charm of the Florida Keys where warm ocean breezes and swaying palms set the tone for a relaxing getaway. Highlights include scenic drives, waterfront communities, unique attractions, and the laid-back charm of island life.
Culinary Journey Through Tuscany
April 20th-April 28th, 2027
$5,724pp/dbl occupancy
Savor the flavors, traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany! Discover historic villages, renowned vineyards, local markets, and authentic Italian cuisine while immersing yourself in one of Europe’s most celebrated culinary regions.
West Virginia Rails & Williamsburg
September 24th-October 1st, 2027
$4,624pp/dbl occupancy
Journey through the scenic mountains of Appalachia aboard historic railways while experiencing the rich history and colonial charm of Williamsburg. This unforgettable tour combines spectacular scenery, heritage rail travel, and fascinating American history.
Switzerland & Christmas Markets of The Rhine
December 9th-17th, 2027
From $5,495pp/dbl occupancy
Experience the wonder of Europe’s holiday season with a magical journey through Switzerland and the Christmas Markets of the Rhine. Enjoy picturesque alpine scenery, charming villages, festive traditions, and beautifully decorated markets filled with seasonal treats and handcrafted gifts.
The Recreation Office provides trip brochures with itinerary breakdowns and signup information. Reserve Your Spot Today! Spaces fill quickly on their most popular tours. For additional information or assistance with booking, call Premier World Discovery at 877-953-8687.
LEISURE WORLD FITNESS & WELLNESS CENTER
The American Diet 250 Years Ago
As we celebrate America’s birthday, let’s take a look back at how life—and especially the American diet— looked 250 years ago through today.
In the late 18th century, most Americans ate foods that came directly from the land around them. Meals were built around seasonal vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and locally raised meats. Food was fresh, simple, and minimally processed. Sugar was considered a luxury, making it far less common than it is today. As a result, people generally experienced fewer cavities and less gum disease. e high- ber foods they consumed also helped support oral health by naturally cleaning teeth and stimulating saliva production.
Daily life required constant physical e ort. Most Americans worked on farms or in manual trades, spending long hours engaged in demanding physical labor. Yet despite these active lifestyles and relatively natural diets, life was far from easy. Average life expectancy was only about 35 to 40 years, largely because of high infant mortality and the widespread threat of infectious diseases such as smallpox and cholera. Medical knowledge was limited, and treatments often included practices that today seem ine ective—or even harmful like bloodletting and misguided dietary remedies.
As America grew and entered the Industrial Revolution, the nation’s food system changed dramatically. New technologies made it possible to produce and distribute food on an unprecedented scale. Re ned sugars, preservatives, packaged products, and eventually fast-food options became increasingly common. ese innovations made food more a ordable and accessible, but they also introduced dietary changes
that contributed to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and oral health problems.
Over time, concerns about these health trends inspired e orts to encourage healthier lifestyles. Public health organizations and government agencies launched programs promoting better nutrition and physical activity. Initiatives such as Let’s Move! and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s MyPlate guidelines sought to help Americans make healthier choices for themselves and their families.
Today, many Americans are rediscovering some of the principles that shaped the nation’s earliest diets. Interest in whole foods, locally sourced produce, organic farming, and minimally processed ingredients continues to grow. More people recognize the bene ts of diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other natural foods.
Looking back 250 years reminds us that the story of the American diet is also the story of America’s growth and transformation. While early Americans faced serious challenges from disease and limited medical care, their diets were often closer to nature and less dependent on processed foods. As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, it’s worth re ecting on what we can learn from those earlier generations and how some of their food traditions continue to o er valuable lessons for health and wellbeing today.
Through the Resident Lens from the Fitness Center
More responses from our Fitness Staff and Residents.
1. What makes you proud to be an American?
2. What does “The American Dream” mean to you?
3. If you could go to lunch with anyone from our American history, who would it be and why?
4. What is your favorite topic from American history to learn about?
Jaimee Shapira
1. I’m proud to live in a country where we have the freedom to speak our minds, pursue our goals, and keep growing through our differences.
2. To me, the American Dream is having the opportunity to build a meaningful life through hard work, resilience, and the freedom to choose your own path.
3. I’d choose Abraham Lincoln because I’d love to hear how he stayed grounded and led with integrity during one of the most divided times in our nation’s history.
4. I enjoy learning about the founding of our country and the people and ideas that shaped the freedoms we have today.
Christine Kluza
3. I would probably have to choose Barack & Michelle Obama. They seem like the kind of couple who could share thoughtful insights one minute and funny stories the next. I imagine the conversation would be full of wisdom, humor, and honest perspectives on family, leadership, and life.
Anonymous 3. I would love to go to lunch with Sally Ride! As the first woman in space and a scientist it would be a blast to pick her brain.
4. I find myself always going back to the Great Depression Era and Dust Bowl times, many stories of perseverance.
Anonymous 1. I am proud to be an American because of our countries founding documents.
2. The American Dream is the free will this country provides.
4. I enjoy learning about everyday life in different periods of American history. It's interesting to see how people lived, worked, and adapted to change.
3. I would have lunch with Walt Disney. His imagination was endless and his legacy still stands and expands still today.
4. I love to learn about the Civil War. I have been to Gettysburg, PA and after that visit I was hooked on reading and viewing as much Civil War related content as possible.
Anonymous
1. I am proud to be an American because of all the beautiful national parks, communities, and people that help bolster the richness of our nation.
2. Dr. Helen Dickens. She made history as the first African American woman trained entirely in the U.S. as a pediatric surgeon and has spent her career transforming health equity! She had many adversities to face so it would be interesting to chat about what she experienced .
3. I have always enjoyed learning about Western Expansion, so many things occurred!
Judy Dinnel
What a di erence retirement life in Leisure World is! I would never have guessed I would ENJOY tness classes as much as I do. I was never a tness person growing up in Minnesota. No winter skiing and no summer skiing either, even though I tried both. It was either too cold or too hot and humid- I’m a “just right” person. So, Arizona has the perfect weather? OK, maybe not, but indoor activities in the summer are nally catching on for me.
My husband and I moved to Leisure World at the beginning of 2019, so a little more than 5 1/2 years ago. Earlier last year, thanks to our neighbor’s suggestion, I tried an exercise class she was taking. I did and loved it! It was perfect for the non-athlete - me! I was struggling a bit getting out of a chairsince I was used to just sitting in front of a computer all day when I was working. A world of di erence now and I have the tness center and its’ amazing sta to thank - a special thanks to Jennifer! It has actually been fun to try several di erent classes –you never know when you’ll nd the one that just ts! Now, I’m loving Leisure World!
Be positive. Find your joy. Happiness is a choice we make.
Even if you’re rolling your eyes at these words, you might still be seeking to lighten your load and feel, well, happier, day to day. Below we o er three easy-to-adopt physical and emotional strategies from the eld of positive psychology that could help you head in the right direction.
Choose the happiness option that appeals most or seems easiest rst. Try each one for a week. en assess whether one or more of these steps increased your daily happiness quotient - and keep doing it!
Get out and get active Fresh air and exercise is a powerful moodlifting combination. Walking, biking, running, and other aerobic activities release mood-boosting hormones that can reduce stress and confer a sense of well-being.
Also, when your muscles contract in a repetitive pattern, as they do when you are walking, swimming, or doing activities such as yoga, it bumps up levels of a brain chemical called serotonin, one of four key feel-good hormones. Higher levels of serotonin are associated with better mood. In fact, one study found that just 90 minutes a week of activity provided mood improvements similar to an antidepressant. When combined with medication, exercise can even help mood disorders that have been resistant to other treatments.
quick 10-to-15-minute walk can elevate your mood, at least in the short term. Bonus points if you nd a park or hiking trail to enjoy your walk since time spent in greenspace is a mood-booster, too.
Dive into small daily pleasures
Little annoyances can spoil the best day - you misplace your keys, stub your toe, or encounter a grouchy coworker. But the reverse is true as well. Studies show that taking the time to appreciate small, pleasurable moments can make you feel happier.
How much movement should you strive for? Ideally, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise ve days a week, or a vigorous 20 minutes three times a week. But if you can’t do that much, remember that some is always better than none. Even a
So, focus on small daily events the same way you would big ones like a wedding day, the birth of a child, or a relaxing vacation. After all, it’s those little moments that make up most of your life.
Savor time spent gardening (yes, potted plants count) or sitting in a sunny window with a cup of fragrant tea. Crank up energizing music. Laugh with family or friends over a good meal. Crawl under soft blanket with a good book or podcast to enjoy. Also, celebrate tiny milestones and achievements, a project well done, or a daily goal met. Make a conscious e ort to pause and enjoy small pleasures like these every day.
Lighten the heavy burden of choice
It may sound like a dream to have endless options, but in truth having lots of choices can generate more worry. Happiness does depend partly upon choices - after all, it would be highly stressful not to have any control over your life.
However, research has found that people given more options have more opportunity for regret. Do you wish you’d chosen a di erent insurance carrier, out t, cellphone plan, dessert? Would another selection have been better? is is why people who run meditation or spiritual retreats often limit selections. Not having to make numerous decisions all day long can be freeing. A simple exercise can help you ease the choice burden. Decide that if a decision won’t bring major consequences, you’ll limit the amount of time you give yourself to pick, or you’ll give yourself fewer options. Don’t allow yourself to second-guess the decision once it’s made. Save the heavy deliberations for bigger, more consequential issues. However, even when making these choices, try to avoid looking back.
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/want-morehappiness-try-this-202107022522
JULY SCHEDULE Group Fitness Classes
JULY SCHEDULE Group Fitness Classes
There will not be any classes Thursday, July 2 & Friday, July 3 nd rd Please keep this in mind when deciding which monthly package to purchase. Zumba will return in September
Level Up has been canceled until the fall season
In the meantime, please join us in the 11:00am Total Body Strength
To make class registration easier, links for all classes are available in the weekly schedules featured in the fitness digital newsletter or online at lwca.com/group/pages/group-exercise-program
• Free Fitness Center Orientation every Thursday @ 12:30pm
• Fitness Center Guest Membership: Leisure World members who would like to add a guest to their membership for use of the fitness center can please do so at the front desk of the administration building or online at lwca.com - Sign into your member account, go to ‘departments’ and choose ‘Fitness & Wellness’ scroll down to ‘Guest Membership’. There is room to enter four guests per form. Click ‘Submit’.
• All members and guests must sign-in on the computer at the fitness center desk. If you do not know your member number, please touch the screen for ‘last name’ enter your last name, touch/click ‘register’, find your name and touch/click the red ‘check in’ box. You are all set, there is no need to do anything when you leave.
• Rec 1 pool is reserved for group exercise class Monday, Wednesday & Friday 8:00 - 8:45am
• Rec 2 therapy pool is reserved for group exercise class Mondays 6:15 - 7:00pm
• Reminder - Residents who use insurance for group fitness classes, don’t forget to stop by in May to get your June insurance package!
EVOLVE classes aim to promote physical along with person development. All low-impact and true to form.
PILATES
Strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and enhance posture in this low-impact, full-body workout. Pilates focuses on controlled movements, breathwork, and alignment to build strength, stability, and body awareness. Suitable for all fitness levels, with modifications available. You must be able to get on and off the floor with or without chair assistance.
YOGA
Unwind, stretch, and strengthen in this all-levels yoga class designed to help you reconnect with your body and mind. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or brand new to the mat, this class offers a balanced blend of breathwork, gentle movement, and mindful poses to increase flexibility, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Bring your own yoga mat (or you can use one of ours).
GLOW classes are designed to elevate the heart rate and to improve cardiovascular health and well-being.
BOXING/KICKBOXING
This class challenges participants with dynamic combinations, agility drills, and strength focused exercises. It increases coordination, endurance, balance, and full body power while emphasizing safe technique and functional movement for daily life.
CARDIO/CORE/SCULPT
A full body workout to improve cardiovascular fitness, build muscle, and enhance core strength.
CLOGGING
The Beginner hour is designed to teach the most basic clogging steps by repetition and using different dances. The steps are said or « called » just before you do them. It takes about six weeks before you get used to hearing the name of the step and automatically knowing what to do. The music varies in style which makes clogging more fun! There are taps on the bottom of the shoes which helps to emphasize the rhythms.
~The Easy hour incorporates the beginner steps as well as some additional new steps found in higher level dances. The speed of the dances is also a little faster. The majority of clogging dances are written for this level, and there are more music styles available to dance to.
~The Intermediate hour is designed to challenge your brain and body. The steps from the previous levels are mixed with more difficult steps and the choreography is often incorporating steps that belong just to that dance. Towards the end of the hour, a dance may be taught that has some advanced steps to help encourage dancers to try an even harder level for future advancement.
All levels are fun to learn and help to build mind and body skills, social enjoyment, and confidence.
(This class only accepts clogging package, insurance or cash)
DRUMMING
Beat it! A fun, fast-paced workout that incorporates drumming and cardio to the rhythm of music. Improve balance, coordination, and concentration while listening to music. All levels welcome!
HIIT (HIGH INTENSITY INTERVAL TRAINING)
A motivating, low impact, circuit training workout developed to safely increase strength, balance and cardiovascular health through guided timed intervals at a fast, yet comfortable pace - helping participants feel energized, capable, and excited to stay active.
ZUMBA GOLD
This is a low impact, but high energy class. There’s a wide range of fun music, and social interaction as we exercise together. No worries if you have not done Zumba before, do what you can and enjoy the movement and music.
SPLASH classes performed in the pool offer a low-impact, full-body workout that can improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. These classes are often designed for various fitness levels and can be adapted for individuals with joint pain and/or injuries.and to improve cardiovascular health and well-being.
AQUAFIT
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.
HYDRO RIDER
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 are required.
STABLE classes are designed around the use of a chair whether it is cardio, strength, or yoga: we’ll focus on keeping you stable and secure.
CHAIR YOGA
Join us for a rejuvenating and gentle yoga experience designed to promote flexibility, body awareness, mental clarity and pain management form the safely 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.
TOTAL BODY STRENGTH
Enhance overall strength and balance through exercises primarily performed either in or with a chair.
LEVEL UP
The next step beyond Total Body Strength, this elevated class boosts overall power, strength, balance, and coordination through dynamic, fullrange movements performed in, with, and around a chair or balance bar for greater total-body control.
TRANSFORM classes are designed to change body composition through strength, mobility, or circuit training.
CORE LAB
Ready to level up your core strength and balance? CoreLab blends gliders, stability balls, BOSU, light weights, and more with functional movement to challenge your body. Walk out feeling stronger, more balanced, and ready to take on anything.
FUNCTIONAL CIRCUIT
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.
TRU STRENGTH
Build real, measurable strength. A class for progressive overload using proper form and technique with a variety of equipment like dumbbells, barbells, bands, and even body weight. Break plateaus, prevent injury and get stronger week by week
TRXtreme
Push your limits in TRXtreme, a high-intensity, total-body workout that combines TRX suspension training with cardio intervals, core conditioning, and strength challenges. Designed for those looking to take their fitness to the next level, this class builds functional strength, endurance, and mobility using just your bodyweight and the TRX system. Get ready to sweat, burn, and feel the Xtreme difference.
UNFOLD classes create space in the body and mind through a blend of intentional movement, deep stretching, mobility work, breath awareness, and meditation. Designed to help you release tension, increase flexibility and reconnect with your body. Expect deep stretches, joint-nourishing mobility work, calming breath techniques and/or grounding moments of reflection.
STRETCH & MOBILITY
Unlock your body’s full potential with this rejuvenating stretch & mobility class. Designed to improve muscle and joint function, flexibility, and overall movement quality, this class combines dynamic mobility drills with deep, intentional stretching to lubricate the body, enhance balance and range of motion, and support more effortless, pain-free movement. A powerful preventative tool for reducing stiffness and injury while improving posture and recovery. This class will require time spent on the floor.
INTRO TO...CLASSES are designed to help you explore new workouts, build confidence, and get moving in a supportive, beginnerfriendly environment. Whether you’re trying something new or getting back into a routine, these sessions are a great place to start. A different class each week.
Inquire at the fitness center or see the weekly Fitness Newsletter for weekly schedule.
VETS POST
By Freddy Groves Fiduciary
fraud is one of the lowest scams that can be perpetrated against a disabled veteran. Not only is the thief taking taxpayer money, but he (or she) is stealing the money directly from the veteran.
ere are so many examples of duciary fraud -- and when caught, the thieves end up in prison.
ere’s the woman who stole from her own disabled veteran son for ve years. Against the rules, she commingled his VA money with her own bank account and proceeded to spend it on trips, bills and even a vehicle. And of course she didn’t le the required paperwork.
en there was the thief who swindled a very elderly disabled veteran, spending the money on himself for vacations, jewelry and more.
Fiduciary rules
If you agree to become a duciary for a veteran, be sure you understand the rules. Here are a few:
at money is for the sole use and bene t of the veteran -- medical care, internet, taxes, travel, telephone, food, housing, clothing, monthly bills and anything else -- and that money is to be kept in a separate account.
You’ll be expected to le paperwork and reports, keeping track of where every dime has gone and noting any changes to the circumstances such as a new address, medical condition or income. Keep all receipts and bank statements.
You may not pull cash out of an ATM or cash checks just made out to “cash.”
You may be awarded a small fee for duciary duties. You
cannot take more than that amount, and fees are not paid if you are related to the veteran.
If you’re a duciary or if you’ve been asked to be one, be certain you know what you’re doing. e rules are quite speci c. If you have questions, call 888-407-0144.
To learn all that’s involved in being a duciary, check benefits.va.gov/FIDUCIARY/docs/fy-25-docs/vaduciary-guide-march-2025.pdf (or tinyurl.com/ yrjskc8a), a 36-page VA le. Take a close look at the instructions for the accounting forms that you’re required to ll out.
If you suspect duciary fraud, report it at 800-4888244.
(c) 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
Which Oils
Are the Healthiest and Which Should You Avoid?
You’ve no doubt heard the praises sung about olive oil. But that bottle of EVOO is likely one of dozens on the supermarket shelf. So where do all the other options t in?
Not only can many types of oil work within a wholesome diet—it’s worth keeping a variety of bottles in your cupboard, since di erent kinds work better for di erent cooking methods. As for the health bene ts? Certain picks likely have more to o er than others, including a few that might surprise you (we’re looking at you, canola oil!).
So before you do another drizzle or pour, here’s a look at the very best oils to cook with, plus the ones you’ll want to steer clear of.
How Cooking Oils Affect Your Health
A little bit of oil makes most dishes tastier and more nutritious (your body needs some fat to absorb certain vitamins), not to mention easier to cook (no stuckon bits of food here, thanks!). But certain fats are also better for you than others.
• Unsaturated fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are considered healthy because they can improve cholesterol, reduce in ammation, and stabilize heart rhythms. ey tend to come from plant foods and stay liquid at room temperature.
• Saturated fats are mainly found in animal foods, as well as a few plant foods like coconut and palm oil. You don’t need to avoid saturated fats completely, but you should keep your intake to 10% of your calories or less. Choosing unsaturated fats over saturated ones can help improve your cholesterol and reduce the risk for insulin resistance.
• Trans fats, also called hydrogenated oils, are highly processed fats linked to heart disease, in ammation, and insulin resistance. Steer clear.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
If you had to whittle your oils down to just one, make it extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Extracted from olives, EVOO is rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and boasts anti-in ammatory and antioxidant compounds like polyphenols, which can be bene cial for people with chronic in ammatory conditions.
Speaking of anti-in ammatory, EVOO is less likely than other oils to oxidize or degrade, which can lead to the formation of harmful, in ammation-triggering free radicals, it’s hands-down one of the best oils you can use.
e “extra virgin” part means that the oil is less processed than other types of olive oil (like light or
re ned olive oil). And that minimal processing helps the oil hang onto more of its antioxidant properties.
e downside? EVOO isn’t great for highheat cooking, and it can start to oxidize at temps above 350 degrees. So, studies suggest it’s best for salad dressings or sauces and gentle sautés, slow roasts, or braises.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil ticks many of the same health boxes as olive oil: It’s rich in heart-healthy fats and exerts anti-in ammatory e ects, plus, it o ers up vitamin E to support blood vessel and skin health.
e big di erence? It can withstand cooking temps up to 520 degrees, making it a better choice for highheat cooking. It also has a more neutral avor than EVOO, so it won’t add to (or compete with) the avor of your dish. It’s a good choice for all-purpose sautéing, roasting, and baking; that said, it may not be as widely available at every supermarket as EVOO, and it’s often pricier.
Flaxseed and Walnut Oil
Want a no-cook oil that’s just for dressings and drizzling? Nutty axseed and walnut oils are both excellent choices. Both are packed with alpha-linolenic acids, plant-based omega-3 fatty acids that can protect heart health, thwart in ammation, and even support cognitive health, just don’t cook with them. ey can break down under heat, which dramatically reduces their health bene ts.
Light Olive Oil
Light olive oil is more processed than EVOO, so it has a milder avor and can stand up to higher heat (between 390 and 470 degrees). It’s often re ned with heat and/or chemicals and then blended with some EVOO added back in for avor. But it’s still a good source of heart-healthy fats and may contain some bene cial antioxidant compounds, making it a solid choice for higher-heat cooking.
Oils to Use in Moderation
A few oils met our experts’ criteria for “OK sometimes, but not for everyday use.” ese are the ones on that list:
• Less-Re ned Seed Oils (Like Canola, Sa ower, Sun ower or Grapeseed)
• Coconut Oil
Oils to Limit or Use Sparingly
When it comes to oils you should avoid, there are a few that come up often, speci cally as ingredients in packaged foods. It’s important to read labels and limit your use of:
• Partially Hydrogenated or Trans Fat Oil
• Palm Oil
Choosing the right oil for your cooking method
Di erent oils have di erent smoke points, or the temperature at which an oil starts to smoke and break down. e process releases harmful free radicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and aldehydes, which have in ammatory, carcinogenic properties in general, oils with a higher smoke point can withstand higher cooking temperatures, while oils with a lower smoke point should be saved for gentler cooking methods or no-heat uses. Here’s when to use what, per Colorado State University:
• High heat like searing or stir-frying: Light olive oil, avocado oil, sun ower oil, coconut oil, sa ower oil
• Medium heat like sautéing, roasting, and baking: Light olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, sun ower oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil, peanut oil, sa ower oil
• No heat at all: Flaxseed and walnut oil
Takeaways
Oils like extra virgin olive and avocado are some of the best go-to’s for daily cooking. But there’s room for plenty of other oils in your diet as well, including seed oils like canola, sa ower, or sun ower. Just be sure to pick an oil that works for your cooking temperature and avoid using oils that may have degraded.
https://www.healthcentral.com/nutrition/best-and-worstoils-for-your-health
Coyote Run Women’s Golf Association (CRWGA)
Submitted by L.A. Go
Coyote Run Women’s Golf Association (CRWGA) golfers may have scattered for the summer season but, the golf does not stop. Members are currently enjoying access to Heron Lakes and its challenges to the short game. CRWGA member Lori Elliott conquered #2. After one hop, her tee shot went in the hole for an ace. Congratulations, Lori, nicely done! Another member, Marlene Zaharichuck, gol ng near her Alberta home, recorded at eagle o a 183-yard approach shot, eagles may be rarer than aces; what a ne achievement, Marlene.
Coyote Run golf course renovations are well underway. We eagerly anticipate the addition (and subtraction) of bunkers on the course--along with the renovation of the existing ones--the sum of all of this will present us with entirely new challenges and the high-quality bunkers will facilitate lower scores. is is the working theory, anyway.
Have a wonderful summer, golfers.
The Heron Lakes Men’s 18 Hole League (Monday):
Submitted by: Don Paulson
e 18-Hole Men’s league continues to have league play throughout the summer for those braving the heat. We are always looking for new members so if you are interested in joining us, please contact Don Paulson (paulsondo01@gmail.com).
May 4, 2026 – Mayday, Mayday, Mayday
• 1st Place at 107 – Bill Dalling, Larry Kasper, Jim Greene, Larry Ziehm
• 2nd Place tie at 108 – John Shostak, Bill Baird, Tim Bauer, Ken Meidl
GOLF CLUBS
• 2nd Place tie at 108 – Ted
May 11, 2026 – Skip to My Lou
• 1st Place at 66 – Dan Jones, Rich Blum, Don Paulson, Ken Meidl
• 2nd Place at 68 – Steve Elliott, Larry Kasper, Tim Bauer, Gary Byrd
• 3rd Place at 73 – Ron Slovan, Bill Baird, Jim Gardin, Jim Nell
May 18, 2026 – Team 2 Net
• 1st Place at 121 – John Mullen, John Shostak
• 2nd Place tie at 124 – Virgil Knapke, Don Ste an
• 2nd Place tie at 124 – Bill Dalling, Jim Greene
• 4th Place at 127 – Dan Jones, Larry Ziehm
May 25, 2026 – Memorial Day – No League Play
The Heron Lakes Men’s 9 Hole League (Thursday):
Submitted by: Don Paulson
Leisure World Golf Staff
e 9-Hole Men’s league continues to have league play throughout the summer for those braving the heat.
We are always looking for new members so if you are interested in joining us, please contact Don Paulson (paulsondo01@gmail.com).
May 7, 2026 – Scale to the Top
• 1st Place at 45 – Je York, Robert Hoyt, Don Paulson, Gary Byrd
• 2nd Place tie at 47 – Bill Baird, Don Ste an, Don Paulson (BD), Tom Fulton
• 2nd Place tie at 47 – Bill Dalling, Tim Bauer, Larry Ziehm, Bob Richey
• 2nd Place tie at 47 – Ben Boss, Jim Greene, Jim Gardin, Mike Nell
May 14, 2026 – Cha, Cha, Cha
• 1st Place at 51 – Bill Baird, Ken Meidl, Dave Foley, Gary Byrd
• 2nd Place at 52 – Bill Funke, Larry Kasper, George Chrouser, Jim Gardin
May 21, 2026 – Lone Ranger
Brinkman, Ken Steele, John Mullen, Bill Klepacki
•1st Place at 60 – George Chrouser, Tim Bauer, Ken Meidl
•2nd Place at 61 – John Gri n, Don Paulson, Gary Byrd
•3rd Place at 62 – Bill Baird, Rich Blum, Bob Richey
May 28, 2026 – Red & White Scramble
•1st Place tie at 29 – Ben Boss, Ken Steele, Gary Byrd
•1st Place tie at 29 – Bill Baird, Bill Brayton, Bob Richey
•3rd Place at 30 – Larry Kasper, Ken Meidl, Bill Klepacki
Heron Lakes Donut League
Submitted by Gwen Johnson 602-689-3640
Since so many Donut League golfers have gone to their summer homes, we all play either the front nine or the back nine only.
May 6 results of front nine:
• 1st place Larry and Dawn Kasper, Carla Wizniak, Debbie Dahne.
•2nd place Bob and Kay Richey. Don and Mary Paulson.
• 3rd place Lynn Peters, Doug Atnip, Duane Dehne, Marsha Steele
May 23 results back nine:
• 1st place Joe Vitetta, Gino Vitetta, Gwen Johnson, M. Dalling.
• 2nd place Gary and Bev Byrd, George and Sherri Chrouser.
May 20 results of front nine:
• 1st place Joe Vitetta. Terri Brooke, Larry and Dawn Kasper.
•2nd place Kay Richey, Ben Boss, Gary and Bev Byrd.
May 27 results of back nine:
• 1st place Joe Vitetta, Terri Brooke, Ben Boss, Gwen Johnson.
•2nd place Larry and Dawn Kasper. Gary and Bev Byrd.
June 3 results of back nine:
•1st place Bob and Kay Richey,
•2nd place Joe Vitetta, Terri Brook
GOLF CLUBS
Rendezvous Café
CLINICAL STUDIES REVEAL:
The debilitating pain, numbness and tingling experienced by patients su ering from Peripheral Neuropathy canbesuccessfully treated
WITHOUT THE USE OF DRUGS AND SURGERY
• Why many current treatments for neuropathy don’t work.
The underlying causes of peripheral neuropathy, and the key to prevention!
The Nobel prize winning discovery that every neuropathy patient MUST know.
How peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed, and when it can be successfully treated.
A technology originally developed by NASA that decreases neuropathy symptoms.
Advanced diagnostic testing to help determine if your condition can be treated.
AARON T SHAPIRO, DC, BCN
A simple home therapy that is used by some of the largest specialty hospitals in the country to treat certain types of neuropathy.
On the Move
Shall We Round Dance
Cactus Capers attendees plan to attend the International Choreographed Ballroom Dance Association (ICBDA) Convention in St. George, Utah.
Folks at the All-Cuers Fun Dance at the end of the season will meet again in July at the annual ICBDA
Any Bird Watchers in LW?
If you are interested in forming a bird watching group in the fall, please email jrayda@gmail. com. I’m thinking we will meet once a week or perhaps twice a month for a morning or evening birdwalk around Leisure World. We’ve got owls, kestrels, vermillion ycatchers and lots MORE! I’ll collect names over the summer and email everyone to see what schedule works for most and we can start our walks in November. I’m open to all suggestions and thoughts!
LW Billiards
Team America defeats Team Canada to retain LW Billiards Can / Am Crown https:/LWBilliardsClub.com
Team America (L-R): Billybob Glover, Wayne Luepka, Jim Wilson, Kevin DeGroote, Armand DeYoung, Gary Chaidez, John Ruddock(C), Kathee Flamini, Doug Henry
Team Canada (cont.): John Collingham, Don Brown(C), John Ewing, Ed eessen, Daniel Kurtz,
CLUBS
Larry Wolkosky (spelled correctly), Les Colligan, Jack Stockton, Gord Buckels (hat imaged-in)
Team America defeated Team Canada 44 to 37 in the Leisure World Can / Am Billiards Classic taking the title back-to-back against the Canucks! Team Canada Captain Don Brown kept the team sharp and focused, extolling good gamesmanship leading Team Canada to an early lead with team top-guns Les Colligan (6w/2l) & Jack Stockton (6w/2l) each. Team America came back forcefully with top-gun newcomer Wayne Luepka (8w/1l & Can/Am Top-gun trophy recipient) followed by top-guns Jim Wilson (7w/2l & 2025 Top-gun trophy recipient) & Kathee Flamini (7w/2l) to shore up the victory. Team America Captain John Ruddock awarded Wayne Luepka the Can / Am Topgun trophy praising the entire team’s performance, but when asked about rumors ying that President Donald Trump called in the middle of the tournament to encourage Team America, the captain dismissed the call stating “We at LW Billiards keep politics out of our competition with our companions up north & that team played brilliantly!”
Join us for fun, billiards & entertainment, click the QR code for events:
Good Billiards is like Aging - the best is yet to come! (Robert Browning paraphrase)
Thursday Morning Lady Billiard Players
Submitted by Carolin Lowy e weather in July here in Arizona is hot and dry. A cool location right here in Leisure World is the Billiard Room at Rec.1.
ursday mornings at 8.30 a.m. a group of friendly ladies meet for non-competitive games of Pool. We welcome all and will help new players get started. Remember practice does help. e Billiard Room has a good selection of cue sticks to use. We play until around 10.00 a.m. and meet throughout the year. Come by and visit and see how we have a good time playing pool. Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626.
Gather Group Photos
LW Christian Fellowship Bible Study
Submitted by Lynette Magnuson
**ATTENTION** At this time we will NOT be showing Christian movies over the summer as originally planned for ursday mornings in the Rec 1 theater. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause you. Hope you have a blessed summer enjoying all your favorite summer activities. Please look for any LW Christian Fellowship updates here or on the Weekly Club Post online. If you have any questions, please feel free to text me (Lynette) at 903-316-2116. May our Lord bless you and keep you well and safe!
GATHER
Submitted by George Miller, Manor 1625, 774-2754009
e GATHER group continued through May with a trip to Organ Stop Pizza. We enjoyed each other’s company while dining and listening to the music provided by the Mighty Wurlitzer.
We also headed back to Yo-Pauly’s NewYork style pizza and italian restaurant before head to Don Bluth’s front row theatre, to enjoy a fun comedy play of “Over the river and through the woods”.
In the November I have a trip to see Manhiem Steamroller. ese are very limited tickets so may be sold out by time of publishing.
On Friday Dec. 5th, I have 35 tickets for the matinee show at Don Bluth’s front row theatre for the play “It’s a Wonderful Life” cost is $40 per person, and we are talking about the possibility of dining at Yo-Pauly after the show. As of this being printed only 10 tickets have yet to be spoken for.
Since most of my activities are short notice I put them on the Leisure World Facebook page as well as a whiteboard in the Rec O ce for information or to sign up for outing contact me.
Investment Club of Leisure World
(aka San Tan Investment Club)
Submitted by Shelly Begel
Investment Club of Leisure World (aka San Tan Investment Club) is a closed end mutual fund. It consists of blue chips and other stocks (with average earnings between 15 – 20% annually).
Each member has an interest according to the amount of their deposits and contributions. ere are no membership fees to join, but there is a minimum contribution requirement of $25 per month, which is $300 annually, and is required when you join. is entire amount goes to your part of the club portfolio.
We recommend you attend a meeting or two as our guest, to see how we do it, and have your questions answered. Our concept is to exchange ideas with others
Daniel Tuttle
and to learn more about investing in the stock market.
We meet each third ursday starting on October 22, at 1:00 p.m, for between 1 and 2 hours, in the Internet Oasis Room, which is in Rec 1. If you cannot attend a meeting in person, you can join us virtually. For more information you can you can call or text our president, Tim Kula, at (425) 941-1397. You can also just come to a meeting, when our “season” restarts in the fall.
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 membership. 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 o others, experience an entertaining and social way to build your nest egg.
e 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 bene t of members/partners since 1987.
Members enjoy access to the resources and bene ts derived from our a liation with “myICLUB” and “Better Investing”.
We typically meet in the theater and via Zoom the second Wednesday of each month November through May and additionally as needed over the summer.
Our scheduled meeting this summer will be held via ZOOM ONLY Wednesday 8/12/26, 1PM MST
Please contact Frank Jacoby (frankjacoby4@gmail. com) or 248-535-5456 for more information
Our meetings focus on market conditions, applying stock analysis techniques to proposed stocks and our portfolio.
Minnesota Club
Happy Fourth of July ! While you are enjoying your summer, get out your calendars and mark the dates for next seasons LW events!
ursday, November 19th. Welcome back and
CLUBS
remember to wear your MN colors!
ursday, January 21st
Monday March 8th
Watch Email, LW Facebook site, LW Proboards posts and the Recreation Blast for updates on next seasons events, and have a great summer!
Linda Pratt -President 612-715-3171
Julie Shaughnessy -VP 612-867-6750
Mix and Mingle
Submitted by Lynette Waltemath Mix and Mingle is a new club designed to bring people together in a fun and welcoming environment. With a focus on inclusion, Mix and Mingle will encourage participation from individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are looking to expand their social circles and share memorable experiences with new and old friends.
e July M&M events are:
Co ee on the Courtyard – Rec 1 – every Saturday, 8:30 – 10:30 AM – Everyone is welcome to stop by and enjoy a cup of fresh-brewed co ee, while visiting with friends! Just a note…when it is too hot to sit outside, we will move indoors. Look for us in the Club Room at Rec 1.
Karaoke – Rec 3 – Monday, July 13th – 6:00 – 8:00 PM – We have been having a blast! Whether you can sing or just want to “sing along”, join us and spend a nice evening visiting with your neighbors and friends.
Neighbor to Neighbor – Rec 3 - Friday, July 17th –6:00 – 8:00PM – We will be celebrating the birth of our wonderful nation! Come and get a free hotdog and enjoy games and conversation. Bring cash for 50/50!
If you have an idea for an activity or event, let us know! Contact: lwmixandmingle@gmail.com
We hope to see you at a Mix & Mingle event!
Republican Club
by Diane Andersen
It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the passing of our Vice President/Chaplain Dave Speyer. He passed away June 4, 2026. A memorial service by the family will be held in the near future. Our motto is “Educate, Encourage and Inspire.” is month’s event will take place on Monday, July 20, 2026 at 7:00 pm in the Recreation 2 Hopi/Pima Ballroom. A celebration in consideration of the 250th birthday of our country will
e Primary Election will take place on July 21, 2026.
Are you new to Arizona or have moved within the state and would like to update your voter registration? Please call the number below.
In the event you are conservative minded and would like to become politically active you are encouraged to contact Diane Andersen at (480)395-5515 or azpatriot13@gmail.com for more information.
Leisure World’s Singles Group
SOLO JULY Calendar 2026
• ursday, July 2, SOLO sit together for the Fireworks
• Friday, July 3, Dinner, Cafe, Rec. 2, 4:30 p.m. **
• Saturday, July 4, Happy Independence Day
• Tuesday, July 7, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 10, Trivia, Rec.2, $2. 6:30 **
• Tuesday, July 14, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• ursday, JULY 16, Potluck, Rec. 1, Club Room, 5PM bring a dish to share and $3. for expenses, Anniversary Cake and ice cream furnished.
• Tuesday, July 21, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• Tuesday, July, OOW, B.J. ‘s carpool Rec. 2, 11:30 ** because it is hot and you can wait inside
• Wednesday, July 24, Trivia, Rec. 2, $2. 6:30 ** or free Chandler concert outside 7 to 9 pm
• Tuesday, July 28, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, July 29, Crystal Bowl meditation by the pool Rec. 1, 7:30 ** Chairs available.
**means reservations necessary call/text Barbara Peters at 309-215-7203 or email bapeters56@gmail.com
REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS JULY 2026
Open Studio (POT)
12:30 p.m. ......ACBL Bridge (CLR)
2:00 p.m.
(P)
4:00 p.m .......Movie Matinee (T) 6:30 p.m. .....Partner Bridge (LC)
Monday
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)
9:00 a.m. ......Shuffleboard (SHB)
10:00 a.m. ....Computer Lab Open (CC)
11:30 a.m. ....Pop Country (HOPI)
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)
10:00 a.m. ....Computer Lab Open (CC)
10:00 a.m. ....Big Band (HOPI)
12:30 p.m. ....Pinochle (QCR)
12:30 p.m. ....9 ball (B)
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)
6:30 p.m. ......Mens Poker (QC)
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)
9:00 a.m. ......Shuffleboard (SHB)
10:00 a.m. ....Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:00 p.m. ....Happy Ladies Bridge (APA)
12:00 p.m. ....Pottery Open Studio (POT)
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. ......Samba Cards (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)
9:00 a.m. ......Quilters (FA)
10:00 a.m. ....Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:00 p.m. .... Pottery Open Studio (POT)
12:30 p.m. ....8ball tournament (B)
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)
7:00 a.m. .....Early Bird Stretch (BR)
6:00 p.m. ......Samba Cards (LC)
6:30 p.m. ......Party Bridge (APA)
6:30 p.m. ......Mens Poker (QC)
Friday
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. ......Open Studio (AS) 9:00 a.m. ......Porcelain Painting (POT) 9:00 a.m. ......Shuffleboard (SHB) 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)
6:00 p.m. .....Samba Cards (LC) 7:00 p.m. ......Bingo (BR)
Saturday
8:00 a.m. ......Table Tennis (PIMA) 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) 1:00 p.m. ......Texas Hold’em (QCR) 2:00 p.m. ......Water Volleyball (P)
Card and Game Events Schedule Card & Game Clubs
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
Learn to Play Bridge (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480309-9039 . Lessons: Jan & Feb 2027 Beginner, Intermediate. Advanced.
ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Mondays & Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Year Round Friday, 12:30 p.m. April – October Sunday, 12:30 p.m. Nov-March
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: Burnetta Contact: 701-5703202, Thursday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct – May.
Happy Ladies Bridge (NAV): Contact: 701-570-3202 Wednesdays, 12:30p.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.
Mens Poker (QC) Contact: George VonTrapp gvtrapp@aol.
com Queen Card Room, Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30 p.m.
Texas Hold’ Em (QCR) Contact: Randy Rickert, 602524-2503 . Monday, 1:00 p.m. & Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. Saturday 1:00 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. Yearround.
500
. 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.
500 (APA) Sunday, 6:00 p.m. Rec.3 Apache Room.
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.
Samba (LC) Kathy Murray, kmurray6694@gmail.com. Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 6:15 pm. Yearround.
Pegs& Jokers (LC) Kathy Murray, kmurray6694@gmail. com. Every Friday, 6:30 pm. Year-round.
Hand and Foot Progressive: (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Tuesday, 1:00 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, 480-985-8503
A new card game was added to the list of many, “500”. It is a fun card game where there is one joker and the Jack’s of same color, are high in trump suit.
Roger and Bev Dillon started it and we are carrying on for the summer. It is held at Rec 3, Apache Room. Play starts at 6, on Sundays. Come early for chit chat.
Newcomers please bring $1 to join (onetime). Pays for cards and paper. Also cost $1 to play.
Bunco
Bunco meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month in the Club Room at Rec 1, all year round. It’s a very easy game to learn, so if you haven’t played before, come and try it. We start promptly at 6:30 pm, so please be there by 6:15 pm. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Our next game will be on Tuesday, July 7thh
e cost is $3.00 per person and all money collected is paid out in prizes. Please don’t bring anything larger than a $5 bill as we may not be able to make change.
Sales: Doug 480-228-0287
Service: Chris 480-616-3103
sales@DCKitchensAndBath.com
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
For more information, call Laura Krever at 310-916-8105 or Dana Bourque at 602-757-4348.
Chess Club
e chess club meets every ursday at 4pm in the Lakeside building (near the lawn bowling). Meet new friends and enjoy a friendly game of chess. Most of us have rediscovered the joy of the game after having not played since high school. ere are no Bobby Fishers here, but we do enjoy spirited games. All levels are welcome, including beginners who wish to learn about the game. e emphasis is on fun and learning. Please join us.
For more information contact: Matthew Menenberg, Manor 2171 602-334-7597 Mattmenenberg@gmail.com
Pinochle
Pinochle now meets twice a week for the summer, Tuesday and Wednesday, in the Queen Card Room at Rec 1. Play starts at 12:30-3:30. Please bring fty cents to play each time. See you soon!
Polish Poker
We secured the Rec. 1 Clubroom for another year of Polish Poker on the last Monday of each month at 6 pm, is is a low skill very easy to learn card game that lets you socialize without having to concentrate on strategy, so its easy to carry on conversation and just hang out and have fun. As always $3 gets you admission and an entry into our 50/50 ra e. Please come join us: George Miller, Manor 1625, 774-275-4009.
Leisure World Scrabble Club
Submitted by Carolin Lowy July is really warm here in Arizona. Are you looking for a cool place to hang out in?
e Lakeside Club House at Rec. 1 on Monday evenings 6.00 p.m. is where a group of residents and their guests meet for friendly games of Scrabble and Upwords.
e club has everything needed including game boards, o cial dictionaries and word lists. Oh yes, and small dishes of candy to sweeten the pot. Games are played for fun and friendly conversations are part of evening. e only thing missing is YOU. We gather throughout the year so come on by. Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626. Contact
MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS
Casual-Aires
Submitted by Allen Cziok
e Casual-Aires Dance Club invites you to join our group if you enjoy listening and dancing to Rock-and-Roll 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-your-own cocktails followed by a catered sit-down dinner as the live band plays background music. After dinner the lights go down, the band picks up the tempo, and everyone gets into the serious business of dancing the night away.
A casual dress-code sets the tone for fun- lled evenings with old and new friends.
e 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, e Leisure World Post, or on community newsletters and 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
e Leisure World Cloggers continue to dance their way into summer every Friday in the cool, air-conditioned classroom next to the Fitness Center. Dan Rowan and Cathy Martin teach Beginning through Intermediate Plus dances from 11:45 to 2:45, moving gradually from easy to more advanced steps during each class session. ey keep things interesting and lively with a wide variety of music and a mix of the old with the new. One Friday last month was especially entertaining as we danced to music from hit movies.
Cost is $35 per month or $5 per hour on a drop-in basis. Sign up in the Fitness Center.
Music and Dance Events Schedule
Ballroom Dance Classes - Contact: Bill Goss, 480-275-4647
Pop Country Line Dance Contact: Susan Tuttle, 602-329-2213. Line Dancing - Sundays 1:30p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Music Makers - Tuesday afternoons in the Rec. 2 Music Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. November-May
Ukulele Practice Group - Contact: Mary Smith, 480-288-1423. Like to play the ukulele or always wanted to learn? Come and join up with others who love to play this amazing instrument.
Beginners get a free class to try things out. No special shoes are needed to get started. If you want to see how the class operates, come any Friday just to observe before making the decision to participate. You will see that there is a very congenial atmosphere and a great opportunity to exercise both mind and body. Everyone is welcome!
Moonlight Serenade Dance Club
Submitted by Peggy Larson
“By the time I get to Phoenix…” it will be cooler and I will be ready to dust o my dancing shoes, dress in my fancy clothes, and head on over to Rec. 2 for a formal dinner and dancing with live orchestra music.
“Oh,” you say, “I haven’t had a chance to send in my dues in order to join in a special social dinner/dancing event of the season”.
Great news! You and her dancing partner still have time to join the Moonlight Serenade Dance Club. Old or new to Leisure World, we welcome everyone. e orchestra is tuned up and ready for dancing at 5:00 PM. A formal dinner is served at 6:30 followed by more dancing until 9 p.m.
Four dates for the coming year are as follows: November 14, January 23, February 27, and March 27, 2027.
Dues for the entire year, which includes dinner and dancing, are $350 per couple. e menu gives a choice of two entrées and includes a salad, dessert, and co ee.
Dean Meier, our membership chairman will be happy to help you with sign up or questions. Meier1954@gmail.com Meanwhile enjoy your summer wherever you are. I’ll be back next month with more about the Orchestra’s and themes for 2026–27. Bye!
Shall We Round Dance Club
Submitted by Kaye West
July will be a big month for round dancers who gather in St. George, Utah, for their annual convention! A Trail End dance begins festivities, followed by four days and nights of new teaches, clinics, and nightly dancing in three halls. A few highlights will be provided by Mesa leaders:
• Doug and Leslie Dodge (teach a Slow Two Step; host the Trail End Dance)
• Randy and Rose Wulf (teach a Tango)
• George and Pamela Hurd (teach a Waltz)
• Bill and Carol Goss (teach clinics on Picture Figures and West Coast Swing, and following the convention host a Choreographers School).
Meanwhile Randy and Rose’s Tuesday dances are well-attended, including by folks not dancing for several years. ey are cueing selections from the convention evening dance programs, and Lee Boyle is posting the cue sheets and videos at https://rounddancing.azphx.com/ so dancers can practice them.
Plan to attend Ronnie Fontaine’s all-round dance party on July 15 at Crescent Run!
Anyone can stop by Rec I ballroom on Tuesday mornings (July 14 and 28) to watch round dancing (no charge). And consider taking a beginning class in November to join this activity or expand the rhythms you dance! Bolero, Jive, and Foxtrot will be taught!
See our photos on the cover of Section C!
SPORTS CLUBS
Early Bird Stretch Club
Submitted by Susan Strainis
Early Bird Stretch Club is a low impact aerobics and stretch exercise class that has been in existence for 30 years. It is a drop-in class that meets every Monday/ Wednesday/Friday morning at 6:55AM for an hour in the Rec.1 Ballroom.
We have a wonderful group of residents who enjoy exercise plus socialization. Come try us out, you will not be disappointed, and there is no cost. JOIN US!!!
Leisure World Gun Club
“A republic, if you can keep it” ese are the famous words of Benjamin Franklin on leaving the Constitutional Convention in 1787. en as now there were sharp divisions of opinion on many subjects including the Constitution itself. But keep “the Republic” we have. ough not without e ort, depressions and wars both foreign and domestic, this nation endures. And whatever the di erences of opinion one constant remain, the love we Americans share for our country.
To guarantee that this new form of government would not become just another form of authoritarian control, a Bill of Rights limiting the government by guaranteeing to
the citizens certain “inalienable rights” was adapted shortly after the initial Constitution itself. First and foremost, the “guaranteeing no establishment of religion or prohibition of practice thereof”, abridging the freedom of the press or speech and the right of the people to peaceful assembly. Next followed “the right to bear arms”. Eight more initially and overtime until a total of 27 amendments were reached (with one repealed).
Our country and its Constitution remain an inspiration to peoples and cultures all over the world as they have sought to form and protect their own democracies. So Happy Semi Quincentennial to US!
While good people may still debate the 2nd amendment’s wording and its interpretation, the Leisure World Gun Club has since its inception promoted responsible gun ownership and behaviors through education and friendly competitions of marksmanship. It’s monthly general meeting remains on summer hiatus, but the following competitive events continue. Please feel free to join us at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club, at 3960 Usery Rd., Mesa for any of the following.
Scheduled Events:
SPORTING CLAYS: ursdays: July 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th. Meet at the RSSC Shotgun parking lot at 6:45am- ready to shoot 8:00 am.
RIMFIRE PISTOL: Wednesday, July 8th Meet at RSSC Pistol Bay #2 at 7:00 am
PRACTICAL PISTOL: Wednesday, July 22nd Meet at RSSC pistol bay #2 at 7:00 a.m.
STRICTLY SOCIAL: Gun Club Lunch- Members, family and interested individuals all welcome-
Monday July 27th at BJ’s at 6622 Superstition Springs Blvd, Mesa. We meet at 11:30 a.m.
For further information, please contact club President Keith Hepler at kvhepler@ gmail.com
ARTS & CRAFTS CLUBS
Decorative Arts
Art Assoc. – Contact: Monica Beatrice 480-685-0724
Open Studio: Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Jewelry and Lapidary (LAP) Contact: Dan Coulombe 479715-5826.
Photography Club (AS) Contact: Bob Bennett, 480-2507127
Arts & Crafts Meetings and Classes Schedule
Pillowcase Dresses Contact: Darlene Footh, 701-3398491. Make little girls’ dresses out of pillowcases for charity.
Quilters Contact: Colleen Backus, 612-822-5289 –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.
Card Making/ Rubber Stamping (CER/SG) Contact: Syd Dyck 913-226-8699 or Elena Reylek 305-761-4347 3rd Thursday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Fiber Arts
Knitters & Crocheters Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480641-4626 – 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.
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 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, 480734-0685 or Ginger Merkle, 303-988-6420. We welcome
Monday Morning Twiddlers and Friday Morning Knitters, Crocheters and Hand Embroiders
Submitted by Carolin Lowy
Summer days are pretty hot here in Arizona. One of the cool places to hang out in is right here in Leisure World.
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. All at no cost to you.We meet Wednesday and Friday mornings 9 am to Noon in the Art Building.
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
When,Where,Who and Why: Every Monday and Friday mornings 9-11 Fiber Arts Studio, Rec.1 A group of creative, friendly and supportive people. Why? Just because.
Residents and their guests are welcome to join us and share their creative talents OR
Just stop by for a friendly chat. Our closets have a lot of donated supplies including embroidery oss,yarn for knitting and crocheting, patterns and tools i.e. hooks, looms, and needles.
We are involved with various charitable organizations including hats and scarves for local homeless support groups, throws for folks going through chemotherapy and Warm Up America. We accept donations of supplies throughout the year. Need to know more, give me a call: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626.
Camp Tatiyee
Leisure World Lions Club
Your LW Lions Club has set a goal to raise $100,000 for CAMP TATIYEE!! As of May 31st, we are at $39,084!
Consistent support is one of the most powerful ways to make a lasting di erence at Lions Camp Tatiyee. By becoming a recurring donor, you help ensure that special needs youth across Arizona can count on a lifechanging camp experience year after year.
Monthly giving provides steady, reliable funding that allows us to plan ahead, maintain high-quality programming, and serve as many campers as possible. Your ongoing support directly funds free, inclusive experiences where campers build con dence, independence, and meaningful connections through activities like science enrichment, recreation, and community-centered programs.
Even a modest monthly gift adds up to a signi cant impact over time. For example, a $20 monthly donation helps provide critical support for camper care, programming, and accessibility needs throughout the summer season.
When you give monthly, you are not just making a donation, you are becoming a sustaining partner in the lives of the children and families we serve. Infusing a steady stream of income to the camp allows the camp planners to have consistent support. Join Camp Tatiyee in creating life-changing experiences all year long.
You can make recurring, monthly donations to support Lions Camp Tatiyee’s free summer programs for special needs directly through their o cial donation page. e site allows you to select “Monthly” as your donation frequency to establish consistent support. e donation site, whether one-time or recurring is easy to use. Go to website: https://camptatiyee.org. Select “See how you can make a donation!” and ll in the form.
Be sure to use your Leisure World 85206 address so your donation(s) may be included in our goal.
Camp Tatiyee
Goal $100,000: Help the Lions Club get the kids to Camp! Total collected as of May 31st is $39,084
Every summer Lions Camp Tatiyee opens its doors to hundreds of children with special needs, completely free of charge.
When you give today, you're changing a life!
School Supplies
Summer is upon us! Now is a good time to stock up on school supplies for the Je erson Elementary School kids returning on August 6th. As a Title I school, 95% of the kids are at or below the poverty level.
June and July are the perfect months to look for sales and bargains to stock up on.
On June 1st, collection boxes for donations will be set up in the Admin Bldg and inside the entrance at Rec 2. A list of items needed will be posted above the collection boxes. ere is also a donation box at Manor 730, Lion Joe Moltz’s home.
If you would like to make a cash donation, please make check payable to Leisure World Lions Club with “school supplies” on the memo line and mail to:
Lion Joe Moltz 730 Leisure World Mesa AZ 85206 arjam56@yahoo.com
Please help every student gear up for success.
“ ose who are happiest are those who do the most for others. LIONS: “WE SERVE.”
Fly the Flag
Show Honor and Respect For Our Freedom by joining ing our “FLY THE FLAG” program.
Lion Club members, along with community volunteers, work together to make this program a success.
Applications may be found at lwlions ags@gmail. com
Mail application along with $45.00 check to:
Leisure World Lions Club PO Box 6905 Mesa, AZ 89216 (Yes, 89216 is correct.)
Mailbox Painting
Will resume in the Fall. Coat Collection
Full time and seasonal residents, it is not too early to start collecting gently used coats and jackets for Je erson Elementary School, a Title 1 school serving low income students.
Please gather the items this summer so that in the Fall you can turn them in to the LW Lions Club during October/November.
Note: Some of the 5th and 6th graders need adult sizes.
Camp Tatiyee Plaques
Last month the Board of Directors at Lions Camp Tatiyee installed three plaques to dedicate two bulidings and a stone monument to two generous benifactors.
A forest green sign stating “GARAGE” was placed over the doors of the 50’ x 150’ clear span building used to house all the Camp’s equiptment. e funds were given by Lion Carolin Lowy in addition to safety equipment for the campers go-cart vehicles.
A large polished wood placque was hung in the entrance- dedicating the dining hall/administation building as “SANFORD HALL” and a stone monument was installed at the Camp’s entrance arch to honor the almost two (2) million dollar gift to pay o the mortgage on the 43 acre Camp given by Jane Lee Sanford and Taylor H. (Sandy) Sanford, jr.
Quartermania
Quarter Auction
Join your Lions Club and Dsquared in their mission to prevent homelessness. is is a FUN fundraising event that blends an auction and a ra e, where participants bid quarters to win.
Your Lions Club is proud to announce that Quartermania is returning to Leisure World at Rec 2 on September 12th. Doors open at 11a.m. Event is from 1-3 p.m. Get your admission tickets online ASAP! Only $25.31 each!! dsquared4homeless.org/ events
Submitted by Lion
Kathy Murray Publications Manager
CONTRACT BRIDGE
Swapping Horses
By Steve Becker
Declarer sometimes changes his mind midway through the play and does the opposite of what he intended to do at the start. Usually, the reason is that he has discovered something unexpected about the opposing hands that forces him to reconsider his original plan.
at’s what happened on this deal, where declarer had to hold himself to one club loser to bring home the slam. When he rst saw dummy, South thought that at some point later he would make the normal play of cashing the ace of clubs and then leading toward his queen, hoping East had the king.
is approach seemed more likely to succeed considering East’s bid. However, South decided to keep an open mind while he tried to learn more about the adverse hands.
After ru ng the heart lead, declarer drew two rounds of trump and cashed the A-K-Q of diamonds, discarding a club from dummy. South then ru ed his last diamond in dummy and, when East followed suit, radically altered his original plan of play.
Since East had shown up with one spade and four diamonds and surely had at least seven hearts for his leap to four hearts, he could not possibly hold more than one club. So, at trick eight declarer ru ed dummy’s last heart, then led a low club and played low from dummy!
It didn’t matter to South which opponent actually won the club. If East took it, he would have to return a heart, allowing declarer to discard dummy’s remaining low club while he trumped in his hand. In the actual
SPORTS QUIZ
By Ryan A. Berenz
Questions
1.A 1985 NHL game in which the Edmonton Oilers defeated the Chicago Blackhawks 12-9 has the record for total player points (goals plus assists) scored in a single game with how many?
2.Before it was renamed Connie Mack Stadium in 1953, the baseball and football arena in Philadelphia was known as what?
3.Kevin Mayer became the decathlon world record holder in 2018 competing for what country?
4.Name the New England Patriots linebacker who caught touchdown passes in Super Bowls XXXVIII and XXXIX.
5.What brand, established as a rubber tire manufacturer in Ireland in the
case, West’s nine won, forcing him to lead a club from the king or yield a ru -and-discard. Either way, South could not be stopped from scoring 12 tricks.
(c)2026 King Features Syndicate Inc.
1890s, began making golf and tennis balls in the early 1900s?
6.Which Major League Baseball team fired manager Billy Martin after only one season despite winning 97 games in 1969?
7.Which Toronto Maple Leafs player had his No. 9 retired in 1934, the first time a professional athlete had a jersey retired in his honor?
Answers
1. 62.
2. Shibe Park. 3. France. 4. Mike Vrabel. 5. Dunlop.
6. The Minnesota Twins.
7. Ace Bailey.
(c) 2026 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.
•“Always be on the lookout for sale items that can be given as gifts. You can also check the sale rack for children’s clothes. Sometimes, I buy up to a year in advance for my child, since the deals can be so good. Just be sure that the clothing is the right season when your child will be able to wear it.” -- Matt in New Mexico.
Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810.
(c) 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
America's Dancing History
By 1776 in Colonial America over a hundred- fty years had passed, characterized by endurance from dangerous ocean crossings, severe winters, starvation, disease, and multiple wars, and the thirteen colonies east of the Allegheny Mountains had established farms, towns, villages, and plantations with divergent peoples from many countries as well as indigenous people and Blacks. In the context of the English, French, and Spanish vying for political power worldwide and the wealth that the New World o ered, colonists themselves were divided in their beliefs, languages, and loyalties.
Even in that turbulent context, with some craving independence and self-rule and others loyal to the King of England, colonists used social gatherings featuring music and dance as a means to demonstrate tolerance of those di erent from them as well as cooperation and community with their neighbors, though there remained distinctions of acceptable interaction according to social class. Learning to dance was required as part of the education of men, and dances provided an opportunity for young people to become acquainted and engage in courtship, since “dating” as we understand it today did not exist.
Upper Class Dancing
e landed gentry of Southern colonies and the governing elite in Middle and Northern colonies held Balls which brought people together, often from a considerable distance. Southern Balls usually lasted several days. In the other colonies there were both private and public Balls. Private Balls were occasions to commemorate a special event such as an engagement or anniversary where the host/hostess issued invitations for selected guests. Organizers of public Balls sold tickets so only those with discretionary funds could participate.
Attendees wore their best clothing: ladies showed o their long formal gowns (all dresses were long in those days) and men often wore their military dress uniforms. ey engaged in dance forms in uenced by those from the courts of England and France and taught by dance masters they paid who largely had been in uenced by the eld of ballet.
Most prominently they showcased the Minuet, a courtly dance characterized by six counts of music which was played with a piano, harpsichord, harp, and/or violin. It was a “performance dance” done by one pair of dancers who exhibited their skill while all others watched.
shared their heritage. Many of the dances corresponded to speci c pieces of music, and according to authors Kate Van Winkle Keller and Charles Cyril Hendrickson in their book of George Washington, A Biography in Social Dance (1998), “ gures of over 25,000 dances were published with their music in English books between 1700 and 1830.”
e most prominent male selected the most prominent female as his partner for the rst dance (typical today of wedding receptions). Following them, other pairs in descending order of importance danced while others observed, and that continued as long as there were pairs desiring to dance. en they would begin doing some of the “country dances” popular at the time which they learned from the dance masters. Eventually they allowed only four Minuets to be danced at each Ball prior to beginning Country Dances.
The Minuet
e six-counts of the Minuet are made with graceful steps in “ rst position” (having been recently standardized in ballet as a foot position with the toes pointed out and made on the balls of the feet). It begins on the right foot for both dancers who are side by side (the male on the right of his partner) or possibly on opposite sides of the room. ey step as follows (R = right foot; L = left foot):
Count123456
ActionBall of RR Foot FlatBall of LBall of RBall of LL Foot Flat
e steps could be made forward in approximately a straight line. When made to the side, the path is like a contemporary Vine (right foot moves to the side on count 1, the left foot is placed behind the right foot on count 3, the right foot moves to the side on count 4, and the left foot moves in front of the right foot on count 5).
Dancers made geometric paths, such as a “Z” shape, on the oor (a published book described possible patterns). When dancers faced opposite directions such as with their right hands joined at about shoulder height, they could move in a clockwise circle around a common point in an action known as an Allemande (translated “with the hand”). ose less skillful would dance with at feet as Slow-Quick-Quick-Slow (a Quick takes one count, a Slow takes two).
It is easy to see that as dancers adapted what they knew to other situations (the inevitable evolution of dancing), such as dancers facing each other in Closed Position (as in current dancing), one dancer (the male) had to begin with his left foot (count 5). e result is the count of Slow-Slow-Quick-Quick which is the timing pattern for Social Foxtrot which is often the rst Rhythm taught at ballroom studios. Might that be the origin of Social Foxtrot?
Country Dances
People residing in the colonies arrived from many di erent countries, mingling their cultural practices and dances with those of indigenous people. e result was a number of “Country Dances” which had a more democratic air where everyone was encouraged to participate simultaneously and where those of di erent backgrounds
Typically the dances were performed in two lines with men on one side facing their partners in the opposite line. ese “longways” dances, also called “contredanse,” were the origins of Contra Dance patterns still done today and were a precursor to the well-known Virginia Reel which was introduced in the 19th century. Longways dances favored in middle-class events began and ended with “honor your partner” where dancers bowed or curtsied as their rst and last gure.
A variation practiced more by the elite, and depicted in his book in the 1760s by a London dance master De la Cuisse, was the Cotillion, with four couples forming a square and performing as many as twelve gures (listed in French, with “chassé” and “balancé,” used in four of the gures which are recognizable in today’s Round Dancing). e Quadrille, also with four couples forming a square, expanded the (French) dance vocabulary to about thirty gures.
Additionally, dancers from Scotland and Ireland brought jigs (also called hornpipes since they were sometimes accompanied by bagpipe music) where dancers performed intricate movements with their feet (often with sti upper bodies) characteristic of Irish Step Dancing and modern Clogging. Dances called Allemandes (composed of various turns with joined hands) and Gavottes (including side leaps, vines, and hops) were added to dancing repertoire. Some of the early dances were done in circles (early “rounds”).
While slaves and servants did not participate in the Balls of the elites, they did observe the dancing, and not only did they imitate it, but also they brought their own background of experience to bear when they danced in their own social groups. In the South, additionally, slaves were called upon to dance to entertain their masters; their performances often were the early tap dances which involved not only the elaborate movement of the feet (as in jigs), but also animated actions of the whole body.
Evolution of Dancing
e square formation is the basis of modern square dancing which has changed greatly over the years so there are levels of accomplishment (mainstream, plus, advanced 1 and 2, and challenge levels 1, 2, and 3). Currently it is experiencing a revival as people are interested in nding opportunities for exercise, socialization, and joy with a congenial group of people. In Mesa, the Checkmates Square Dance Club (https://mesacheckmates.com/) o ers lessons.
Meanwhile dance masters formed ballroom studios and in the mid-1950s codi ed their dance rhythms from forms they appropriated from many sources. For example, Quickstep evolved from Charleston which originated from Black Americans and their early jigs. ey also originated the Swing dances. Cha Cha and Rumba have their roots in African rhythms combined with Hispanic music which originated among slaves in the Caribbean. Current ballroom dancing caters primarily to a wealthy clientele desiring to perform or compete.
In contrast, the various dances from many countries danced by the common folk, which focused on learning and social interaction rather than competition, were the basis of modern Round Dancing which further evolved by incorporating all the Rhythms of both International and American Style Ballroom Dancing as “cued ballroom” or “choreographed ballroom” so dancers need not memorize routines written to speci c music or invent choreography while dancing!
Round Dancing also is organized by levels: Phase 1 to 6, with two Rhythms beginning at Phase I and II, and others beginning at Phase III or IV. Leaders share their knowledge in person and at conventions and via cue sheets, videos, and websites. eir sequential learning sessions are much less expensive than private ballroom lessons. See the rst link on any page after selecting a rhythm at the Dance Rhythms Chart (at https://home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/rhythms.html) for a checklist of gures for that Rhythm.
With the current world situation likewise in tremendous turmoil and some forces in this country attempting to pit folks against one another, and with young folks feeling increasingly despondent and isolated (experts blaming excessive use of cell phones and computers), our society needs opportunities for in-person social interaction more than ever. Square and Round Dancing provide that kind of community interaction through the joy of dancing. We invite everyone to get involved!
AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING
PlumbSmart Heating and Air Conditioning Free service calls + Free A/C diagnostic w/ repair. Authorized Trane dealer and Trane Comfort Specialists. Seasonal AC Tune-ups $49. New AC units $99/month. Senior & Vet discounts. BBB A+ Rated and family-owned & operated since 2006. Quality, affordable HVAC service, repair and replacement. Voted Best of Mesa for the past 8 years. Over 3,000 five-star reviews. Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC289252. Call Matthew 480-498-8896.
KV A/C & Heating
Reliable repairs, emergency service, annual tune-ups, maintenance, and new A/C installations. Honest pricing, no overtime fees, and fast local service.
Call Victor at 480-748-6781 for a free estimate.
APPLIANCE REPAIR
Appliance 911 Major Appliance Repair and Service. Refrigerators, Washers, Dryers, Stoves, Dishwashers, Disposals. Factory Trained, 15 years in business. Fast, Friendly and Guaranteed. Get It Fixed Now call 480-200-9955.
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 & Social Assistance
• Medication Reminders
• Showers & Bed Baths
• Laundry
• Escort to Dr’s Appointments
• Shopping & Errands
• Light Housekeeping
• Safe, Reliable Transportation (480) 714-4043
www.marcieshomecare.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.
CLASSIFIEDS
Marcie’s Senior Day Club
• Respite Care for Families
• Safe space for seniors
• Sit and fit exercises
• Arts and Crafts
• Games and fun
• A place to build community
Open Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM 6134 E. Main ST. Mesa AZ 85205 (480) 715-2204
Senior Support & Mobile Notary
Services
Providing compassionate, reliable, Assistance for seniors, caregivers, and Families who need an extra set of hands, Whether it’s notarizing, important documents, attending doctor appointments, running errands or helping with day-to-day tasks.
I offer a patient, trustworthy support with dignity And respect. 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
ELECTRICAL
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
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 Ext. 117.
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.
GUTTERS
Local Seamless Gutter Company to help with your home. MNM Gutters is the community's preferred gutter company. Honest, thorough and guaranteed work in a timely manner. Call: 602.748.8765 for your estimate. Licensed, bonded and insured.
Rain Gutter Cleaning
All Types
Awning- Mobile Homes-Park Models Repair and New Installations
Gutter Screening
30 Colors Available
We Love Small Jobs! Call George 480-820-8711
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Handyman Services
“Don’t have time for home repairs? K3M Properties LLC. is your solution! We handle everything from small fixes to big projects.Reliable, affordable and professional.
30 years experience. Call Michael now at (602)350-1802
Eddie's Toolbox - Small Job Handyman. Leisure World Resident. Picture Hanging, Car Waxing, 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
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.
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.
MEET YOUR FRIENDLY LEISURE WORLD
AVON REPRESENTATIVE, Bonnie Ragsdale, for all of your AVON needs. Call 480-241-3770 or email avon0498@ yahoo.com.
Space Available!
Things don't have to slow down for the summer. Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-832-0000 Ext. 1178.
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 LW since 1986 Family Business Honest And Dependable Renovations-Remodeling-Room Additions-Kitchens-Bathrooms Drywall-Painting-Skylights-Roofing-TileLaminate-Granite-Quartz Countertops -Cabinets-Trim-Base-Crown-DoorsWindows- 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 & TEXTURE
*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
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.
LANDSCAPING
Designing Arizona Landscape
Specializing in complete desert landscape and sprinkler install/repair, 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. www.designingaz.com
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
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.
David’s Clean-up and Tree Services Service Include
• Tree Trimming
• Pruning
• Trimming or Removal
• Blowing
• Irrigation Systems
• Installation
• Repair
480-245-7132
Affordable Rates- Free Estimates- All Work Guaranteed
OTHER
Let Us Brighten Your Holidays! Don’t risk the ladder-leave the Christmas lights to us!
We offer exterior holiday decorating, install and take down.
Call or text Caden Solberg 480-7738137
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.
Spartan Pest Control Pest. Weed. Termite Veteran Owned 480-853-3811
CLASSIFIEDS
PEST CONTROL
PLUMBING
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 Services Free Estimates - No Trip Charge. $49 drain cleaning, $99 sewer camera inspection, $189 garbage disposal includes installation. Low cost toilet and shower replacement, water heaters, softeners, reverse osmosis systems. Slab leaks, whole house repiping, free leak detection with repairs. Sewer repair & trenchless sewer replacement. BBB A+ Rated and family-owned & operated since 2006. Quality, affordable full service Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. Voted Best of Mesa for the past 8 years. Over 3,000 five-star reviews. Licensed, Bonded & Insured ROC223709. Call Matthew 480498-8896.
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 & re-routes, 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.
RWB PLUMBINGQuality 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.
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.
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 www.designingaz.com
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.
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.
ASTROLOGY
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A change of season reinvigorates the Lamb, helping to overcome the effects of a recent slowerpaced period. This is a good time to restate your feelings for a certain someone.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) You might not like using your authority to correct a workplace situation, but this is what being in charge is all about. Besides, you have people ready to lend support if need be.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your creativity continues to run high and helps guide you to make some fine choices in the work that you’re doing. Keep the weekend free for the special people in your life.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Don’t be surprised if you experience a sudden spurt of energy that is strong enough to pull you out of a recent period of indecision and put you back in charge of your own goals.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) This is a good time for LEOs and LEOnas to set new goals regarding health, educational choices, and possible career moves. The plans you make now could be a blueprint for your future.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You might have much to offer to a potential employer, but it can all be overwhelmed by too many details. Let the facts about you speak for themselves without any embellishments.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22)
This is a good week to balance your responsibilities to your work-a-day world with your obligations to the people who are in your private life. Expect news that could lead to a change in plans.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)
A changing attitude on the part of a once-determined adversary could cause changes down the line. Be prepared to take advantage of an unexpected new opportunity!
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) You’d be a truly wise SAGITTARIUS to be skeptical about an offer that doesn’t answer all your questions. Even a colleague’s testimonial doesn’t replace facts that aren’t there.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) It’s a good idea to avoid spending money on unnecessary purchases this week in order to keep a reserve against a possible upcoming (but fortunately temporary) shortfall.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) More information is what you should demand regarding a workplace situation that recently came to light. Don’t be surprised at who might turn up as one of your supporters.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You might still be in a “treading water” mode, but by midweek, a shift in your aspect favors taking a more active role in pushing for the changes that you feel are necessary. Good luck!
BORN THIS MONTH: You exude a warm, caring attitude that comforts everyone who comes into your life.
(c) 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
SUPER CROSSWORD
The Spats
Out on a Limb
COMICS
By Jeff Pickering
Just Like Cats & Dogs By
By Gary Kopervas
Dave T. Phipps
© 2026 by King Features Syndicate, Inc. World Rights Reserved.
Grin and Bear It
By Fred Wagner
“We are going through a phase, Mom."
Tiger
By Bud Blake
