Out 2 premiered in theaters on June 14, 2024. It brought in $285.7 million, surpassing #2 release Dune: Part Two's $282 million. Credit: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
• World Population: 1.96 billion
• Fresh eggs (1 dozen): $0.47
• White bread (1 pound): $0.10
• Sliced bacon (1 pound): $0.30
• Round steak (1 pound): $0.40
• Fresh grocery milk (1/2 gallon): $0.33
• Billboard Single: “Sweet Georgia Brown” Ben Bernie
• Top-grossing movie: The Big Parade
• World Population: 4.079 billion
• Fresh eggs (1 dozen): $0.77
• White bread (1 pound): $0.36
• Sliced bacon (1 pound): $1.76
• Round steak (1 pound): $1.89
• Fresh grocery milk (1/2 gallon): $0.79
• Billboard Hot 100 Single: “Love Will Keep Us Together” Captain & Tennille
• Top-grossing movie: Jaws
• World Population Projection: 8.025 billion
• Fresh eggs (1 dozen): $1.53
• White bread (1 pound): $1.43
• Sliced bacon (1 pound): $5.52
• Round steak (1 pound): $6.58
• Fresh grocery milk (1 gallon): $3.28
• Billboard Hot 100 Single 2024: “Lovin on Me” Jack Harlow
• Inside Out 2 was the topgrossing movie of 2024
Still cut for publication from the American war drama film The Big Parade (1925) with Tom O'Brien, John Gilbert, and Karl Dane, from page 7 of the September 1926 Cinelandia.
CONTACTING LEISURE WORLD
Leisure World staff is available by phone Monday through Friday during normal business hours. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 480-832-0000. Dial the extension for the department that will best address your needs. For all emergencies, call 9-1-1 before notifying the LW Security Department at ext. 601.
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. 117 news@lwca.com
Outreach Ext. 126 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
Picture This
Leisure World is updating our database. If it’s been more than 3 years since you had your picture taken for Leisure World, or if you never have, please stop by the Administration Front Desk to have your picture taken any weekday between 9 am and 2 pm. Some of our current photos of residents are outdated and/or unrecognizable. A recognizable, current photo will help enhance security and keep our software updated.
HELP US KEEP COSTS DOWN: ONE COPY OF LW
Leisure World News
Owned by the Leisure World Community Association. Published monthly on the 1st
Advertising Specialist: Elizabeth Ramos, eramos@lwca.com
Graphic Designer: Erica Odello, eodella@lwca.com
Contributing Writers: E.B. Blacke, Sue De Carlo, Larry Caves, Patti Diamond, Mary Ellen doValle, C. Barry Ingerson, Dr. Carol S. Kessler PhD, Sherry Rinddels-Larsen Ken Weinstock, and Kay West
LW Newspaper Resident Advisor: Ronda Gates, MS
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: 480-832-0000 Ext. 117 or eramos@lwca.com
DEADLINE FOR ADS: 15th of month
The acceptance of advertising in LW News does not constitute an endorsement or approval of any products or services by LWCA or management.
Leisure World residents now have year-round access to dispose of their household hazardous materials at the new City of Mesa Household Hazardous Materials Facility which is located at 2412 N. Center St. Drive-through drop-off hours: Wednesday-Saturday 7 a.m.- noon. You must present a current driver’s license with a Mesa address OR a current utility bill or rent receipt and a photo I.D. with matching name.
Executor Of
Here in Leisure World, if a resident passes, and they are the only person named on the deed, all gate access to the property is blocked until the person responsible for managing the deceased resident’s affairs is identified. However, if Leisure World Administration has a copy of a Trust Agreement, Power of Attorney, etc. naming a successor beneficiary, that person becomes responsible for gate access to the property, and Leisure World will immediately update our files to reflect the change.
Please help us keep accurate records, to better serve you. If you have recently updated your deed or added new beneficiaries, please update your changes with Reception Administration front desk.
Estate?
Wednesday Coffee January 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29
Leisure World Wednesday Morning Coffee is open to all residents. The wonderful volunteers of the Wednesday Morning Hospitality Committee have been hosting this event for ten years.
Leisure World cordially invites all New Owners to the Wednesday Coffee Chat. Visit with fellow residents and learn about Leisure World from a resident’s perspective. Join us for Coffee and light snacks in the Clubroom at Rec.1 just across from the Courtyard, every Wednesday from 8:00 to 10:00 am.
Our Community Manager Clark Collier will join us on January 8th , so be sure to stop by and say hello!
Picking Fruit:
As many of the trees in our community have started to produce fruit, we ask everyone to be mindful of your neighbor’s privacy and ask permission before picking fruit not on your property.
Find Penny the Swan
Meet Penny, the newest addition to the Leisure World Newspaper. Every month, we will be hiding Penny the Swan inside one of the three sections of the paper. The first resident to locate Penny and send us an email stating her exact location will be awarded a gift certificate!
Rules:
• Your email must be sent to news@lwca.com.
• Penny’s location must consist of the page number she was found on as well as the title of the article she is closest to.
• Gift certificates must be picked up in the Communications Office.
• All correct answers will be collected on the 15th of each month and the winner will be chosen at random.
• There will only be one winner per month.
FOUNDATION FLASHES
Happy New Year wishes from the Leisure World Foundation Board. 2024 was a busy year with grants of $67,500 to other 501(c)(3) charities in the east valley area and $40,575 to projects within the walls of Leisure World. These “within the walls” of Leisure World are funded through our non-tax-deductible Leisure World Improvement Fund. In a partnership with the American Association of University Women and Leisure World Community Association more than $15,000 in scholarship funding has been provided to Leisure World employees to aid in their retention. As this goes to press, the Leisure World Foundation Board will select grants to East Valley charities that have applied for grants. These grants will be announced at our March 2025 Lecture series. All of this was made possible thru your personal generosity and support from many Leisure World Clubs and Organizations, business sponsors and your personal support for our fund-raising activities.
Upcoming fund-raising actives are:
1. Valley Gold Mine-Thursday, January 23 in the Queen Card Room from 8AM-5PM.You can sell jewelry or other valuable items and the Leisure World Foundation gets 10% of the sales from the buyer. You need to make reservations for
this. Contact Norma Bryant 480 654-3291 or normagbryant@gmail.com to reserve your time with the buyer.
2. Valentines Day Dinner/Dance- Friday, February 14. This is one of our two major fund raisers in the year. Tickets will be available from the Rec Office in early January. There will be a raffle for gift baskets and a 50:50 raffle. This is always a memorable evening and a great way to spend this day for lovers.
3. Leisure World Foundation Charity Golf Tournament-Thursday, March 20. This is our biggest fund raiser and this afternoon tournament with dinner to follow is always a great time for both the competing golfers and their partners at the dinner. Fund raising is both from numerous hole sponsors and event sales. The tournament features many games and the traditional chance to win a Lexus, courtesy of Superstition Springs Lexus. At the dinner winners of the Mens, Women’s and Mixed teams’ competition will be recognized, golf trips and other items will be auctioned and there will be a raffle for various gift baskets and a 50:50 raffle. Tickets will be on sale at the Coyote Run Pro Shop starting mid-February.
4. Annual Fund Drive. In February or early March
“So, You Lived at the Grand Canyon?”
The Wonders And Tradeoffs Of Living On The Edge Of Paradise
Premier Speaker #2 Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Join longtime Grand Canyon resident, educator, photographer, and author Mike Buchheit as he shares an intimate familiarity with the world’s most-famous chasm. Through personal accounts and a selection of his favorite images, Mike will connect or reconnect audience members with the amazing landscape, Grand Canyon’s history, biotic communities, geology, life-sustaining waterways, pioneer and tribal histories. Mike will include the many ways to enjoy the park from rim to river.
Mike’s work was juried into the prestigious exhibit Lasting Light: 125 Years of Grand Canyon Photography, which toured the country as part of the Smithsonian Institute’s Traveling Exhibition Series. Arizona fine art galleries have showcased his work, particularly Tanglewood Fine Arts in Flagstaff and Tilt Galleries in Scottsdale.
Raised beside the Mississippi River in his native Iowa, Mike relocated to Scottsdale in the late 1980s. His passion for the Grand Canyon backcountry was forged as a counterbalance to the hectic pace of corporate life in the Valley of the Sun.
Mike relocated to Grand Canyon National Park in 1994, where he is now director of the Grand Canyon Field Institute, a leading outdoor education program, where he also teaches landscape photography. He was a full-time resident, two-thousand-mile backpacker, and frequent river runner.
Though his interests are many, it is in his capacity as a photographer that Mike has found the greatest artistic freedom in conveying his connection to the Grand Canyon. “Living at the Grand Canyon is like living in a postcard, “Mike said, “It defies description in a way, but it was always inspirational.”
He will be sharing his love of the Grand Canyon in his slide show presentation. So, step inside the Grand Canyon with Mike!
The Photography Club will also display related images as part of this presentation. So, come at 5:30 p.m. to see their creative work.
This free presentation is made possible with cooperation of the Rec Department and Desert Financial: Wills and Trust Division and your Leisure World Foundation.
each Leisure World residence will receive a mailer with a QR code that asks for donations for: 1. “ Our giving Beyond the Walls”. This is a tax-deductible donation; 2. Our Endowment Fund-this is also tax deductible; or 3. The Leisure World Improvement Fund. This is a non-tax-deductible fund that supports improving facilities within Leisure World. Projects selected must be approved by both the Leisure World Community Association Board and the Foundation Board. This fund recently funded needed repairs to cart paths on both the Coyote Run and Heron Lakes Golf Courses. Giving can also be made to a designated project approved by the Leisure World Community Association. Depending on the project these donations may or may not be tax deductible.
Year around donations can also be made via the Leisure World Foundation website- www. leisureworldfoundation.com. This site is now able to accept credit card donations
Our mission is to provide charitable relief to help meet the needs of elderly, disabled and distressed persons in the Mesa, Arizona and nearby east valley areas, including the Leisure World Community.
Premier Speaker Series
Well, it’s January. I am hoping that if you make New Year’s Resolutions, you are still going strong. If you have fallen off the wagon already, well, there is always next year!
Speaking of New Year’s resolutions, do you make them? According to the Pew Research Center survey, only 3 in 10 Americans make at least one New Year’s resolution, and even less (21%) of those age 50 and older make them.
If you are one of those that do make them, you can probably guess what the Pew Research Center survey picks out as the most popular subjects:
Behind the Desk of Clark Collier
• 79% involve health
• 61% involve money or finances
• 57% involve personal relationships
So, there you have it, everything you need to know about New Year’s resolutions. Now onto what I really wanted to talk about –generosity.
During the holiday season, but really throughout 2024, I had so many opportunities to talk to different residents in Leisure World. I really enjoy talking to people, everyone has a unique story. What I really took note of in 2024 was how many residents I talked to that give of their time and money. Nobody I spoke with boasted about it, it would just come up in casual conversation. Maybe I asked what their plans were
By Barb Yapp
for the rest of the day, and I would get a response like, “Oh, I am going to help out at the food bank.” When I inquired further, they would say, “I do it every Thursday.”
There were so many examples of this that really made me realize what a giving and caring group we have in Leisure World. Whether it be to a charity, a church, a family, or another cause, Leisure World residents impress me as a giving group. There is always a need, and Leisure World residents impress me as wanting to satisfy that need.
Thank you for the difference you make in someone’s life.
Happy New Year to everyone!
Barb's Board Bulletin 2025: A Great Year For Leisure World
A new year is upon us and there are great things in store for Leisure World. The 2025 Board of Directors has been seated. Thank you to those who ran for a seat in their district, and thank you to residents who voted. The voter turnout was high, and it shows a renewed interest in keeping Leisure World strong and viable. A special thank you to the residents who served on the Nominating Committee is in order as well. The Board of Directors is committed to improvements, our 2025 goals will be announced at the annual
Welcome 2025! A new calendar year. A fresh start. A new perspective. I could not be more excited for this new year. 2024 was wonderful even with its challenges, it was 12 months of growth and joy. My expectation for 2025, is simply this, to live life and to be a blessing. I have a few goals that I desire to accomplish but as I am getting older, I have realized that life takes its own course which at times lead to
meeting to be held in January. We will also recap the 2024 accomplishments of Leisure World management and the Board of Directors.
The new year will undoubtedly bring challenges, but we are prepared to meet them head on. The Board of Directors and management have a good working relationship, and by being a team, there is nothing we can’t achieve! We are looking to improve the landscaping throughout Leisure World, continue infrastructure repairs on sidewalks, and complete the Leisure World Boulevard project. The Board of Directors and administration strive to find ways to reach our residents, the importance of communication
Editor’s Note
Welcome 2025
unexpected surprises.
I read this quote over the holiday season, “Miracles are everywhere, every day, we just have to be willing to be a miracle for someone us, to understand the miracle is understanding that the miracle has always been within us.”
I hope that 2025 brings you an abundance of joy. I hope that you continue to do and learn new things, experience new relationships, and experience the beauty of the world which we are so grateful to be a part of and live in. I hope that 2025 surprises you with
Carley’s
As we step into the new year, I’m filled with excitement and anticipation for what’s ahead. The arrival of 2025 marks not just a fresh start, but an opportunity to continue building and strengthening the connections I’ve made with the wonderful residents of Leisure World. Over the past year, I’ve been fortunate to witness the warmth and wisdom that defines this community.
cannot be stressed enough.
Our Long Range Planning and Architectural Control Committees are continuing their work looking towards the future and making suggestions for improvements. Our resident volunteers are the backbone of Leisure World, and their time and ideas are much appreciated. The Leisure World staff is world class, and they come to work each day to do their best and make life better for each and every one of us.
With a positive attitude, I believe 2025 is going to be a fantastic year. Speaking for the Board, we look forward to working with everyone.
unexpected blessings and gives you grace when you face challenging roadblocks.
2025, we embrace you! We know that this is going to be an amazing year!
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Catch All
Each conversation and interaction has been a reminder of the importance of creating spaces where people feel heard, valued, and supported.
In the coming year, I hope to deepen these relationships even further. Whether it’s through sharing stories in the newspaper, participating in events, my goal is to foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie. I am committed to continuing a newspaper that reflects the residents here at Leisure World. The residents here are more than just neighbors; they are an inspiring group of individuals
who enrich my life in ways I never anticipated.
As we embark on another year, I’m optimistic about the new opportunities for connection and growth. I look forward to continuing to learn from the experiences and perspectives of the residents and contributing to the positive, supportive environment that makes Leisure World such a special place to live and work. Together, I believe we can make 2025 a year full of joy, collaboration, and meaningful relationships.
By Andi Box
Come join Leisure World’s weekly Wednesday Morning Coffee in the Club Room from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.!
Whether you want to select from regular or decaf coffee, a plethora of flavored creamers, assorted cookies, pastries, and crackers, or you’d rather just come for the company and conversations, there is something for everyone.
As I walk into the meeting space, abundant with plush chairs and lively conversations, there is an air of connectedness and community. There are around 40 residents, some standing, some sitting. But every single person is engaged in discussion. They barely notice me as I discreetly try to find a group to briefly talk with. I am reticent to intrude on these lovely heart-to-hearts.
I find a group and am welcomed by smiling faces. When asked what they enjoy about Wednesday Morning Coffee, everyone happily talks at once. “It’s simple,” Arnie Ami says. “Meet and greet and eat and drink.”
Lon Fountain adds on to Arnie’s response. “That’s about all we do anymore. And once the snowbirds come back, we’ll fill this place!”
Steve Stocker raves, “This is the first place I came when I moved here, and it’s where I learned about all the other activities offered. This was in September 2023. Everyone who’s anyone comes to this.”
So don’t miss out and be part of the conversations!
Come and celebrate our Wednesday Coffee 12th anniversary on January 15th!
By Jan Kelly
There are seven people on the nominating committee who are always working to find candidates for the Leisure World Board. One member comes from each district. The current members are:
D1 Diane Andersen azpatriot13@gmail.com
D3 John Miller johncmiller653@gmail.com
D4 Patty O’Brien tomandpatty769@gmail.com
D5 Beverly Rudnick beverlyrudnick@gmail.com
D6 Janet Kelly hhejan36@gmail.com
D7 Peggy Larson pegmdl@gmail.com
D8 Claudine Sanchez-Parrott stevesmom55@gmail.com
Each of us serves on the committee for a minimum of a two-year term in order to cover the election
Wednesday Coffee
process. The even-numbered districts 4,6, and 8, have been completed for 2024. Next year, districts 1,3,5 and 7, will have elections in 2025.
The committee was formed in 2023 to formalize the election process and is now a subcommittee under the Leisure World Board. We are currently working with our chairperson Peggy Larson and with Robin Mann, the LW Executive Assistant, to improve the process, change and update the bylaws, and make ourselves more accessible to the community.
We want to make the process more open to all residents and enable them to access the system. We welcome input and interest in next year’s election starting in January 2025. This will enable us to give out information to the maximum number of
residents here in the winter months and not contain our work to the summer months from August through October.
We need a few good men and women to contact your district nomination committee member and/ or the LW Administration Executive Assistant/ Robin Mann to express your interest.
To become a LW board member, it requires a twoyear commitment. There are many of you out there who have wonderful life and work experiences, having served many communities throughout your lives. LW needs people who will serve on the board and give our community an expanding and vibrant future.
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LIBRARY LINES
By Sue De Carlo
Happy New Year – Let’s start the year on the right track! Will the person who removed the new book The
Sicilian Inheritance please return it to the library so others may also enjoy it? It appears that several library books are not being checked out and returned in the correct manner. This creates problems for the volunteers who maintain the library. Instructions for checking out books correctly are found on the library desk. The proper way to return books is to place hardcovers into the slot at the end of the desk and paperbacks in the basket opposite the desk. The desk is manned from 8.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. every day, and volunteers will be glad to help you through the process. It would be appreciated if everyone using the library would cease taking books without following the correct procedures, i.e. date stamp the card and write your manor number and name beside the date. This procedure allows us to keep track of our books.
Thank you all for supporting the Leisure World Library and the 58 of your neighbors who volunteer throughout the year to maintain our collection.
Library Hours – 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days each week
Donations In Continuing Support
A sincere thank you for the very generous support of the Wisconsin Club. They paid for the library’s subscription to The Wall Street Journal for 2025. I’m sure the many readers who missed the paper this year will be happy to see its return.
Memorial Donations - Many thanks for the following memorial donations: Leisure World Community Theatre in memory of Eileen Fielder and Deanna Long.
Reviews of New Acquisitions - Unless otherwise stated, the review opinions are my own, and the ratings are from the readers at goodreads.com.
Non- Fiction – I think this is an important book that everyone should read. Imminent – Inside the Pentagon’s Hunt for UFOs by Luis Elizondo - The author is the former head of the Defense Department’s program to investigate UFOs. Prior to this assignment, he was a senior intelligence official and special agent for many years. The book substantiates that since WWII and perhaps even earlier, unidentified craft that seem to defy our understanding of the laws of physics have been operating all over the world. Though known to the military and government, the facts were kept from the public. Here is the story beneath the 2023 findings of the Senate Hearings on UFOs. This book details the military viewpoint based on the job of protecting the Earth and humanity. It will foster a profound change in the way we view the universe and ourselves. You may want to watch the UFO Senate Hearings on YouTube and the 60 Minutes episode that followed. 77% rated 4 or 5 stars
LP Fiction – Fatal Intrusion by Jeffery Deaver and Isabella Maldonado – This is book one of a new series pairing Carmen Sanchez’ rule-abiding homeland security agent with free-lance security expert Professor Jake Heron, who believes rules are only suggestions. The mystery involves a serial killer who attacks Carmen’s sister with no discernable motive or criminal profile. The book is fast paced with lots of action. 82% rated 4 or 5 stars
RP Mystery – Agnes Sharp and the Trip of a Lifetime by Leonie Swann - The characters are a group of elderly residents of Sunset Hall. Fed up with a broken heating system, they decide to visit Cornwall. The hotel becomes isolated after a storm, and it becomes clear that a murderer is on the loose among the stranded hotel guests. The book is a farce, full of zany characters trying to navigate the many challenges of growing
older and escaping a murderer. It is entertaining but no mental challenge for the reader. 58% rated 4 or 5 stars.
RP Fiction- International Thriller – Arkangel (Sigma Force #18l) by James Rollins – This story involves a lost civilization, an attack on the National Mall, a murder of a Vatican Archivist, and a possible war between the Vatican and the Russian Orthodox Church. Set in the Arctic Circle, Sigma Force battles Russian agents over the mysteries that may lie beneath the ice. The series features larger-than-life characters and requires suspension of disbelief similar in tone to Indiana Jones. 82% of mostly mature men rated 4 or 5 stars.
Speculative Fiction – Fantasy - Greek MythologyRomance – The Games Gods Play by Abigail OwenThis first story in a new series is set in San Francisco where the Gods of Mount Olympus rule. Our heroine Lyra is a thief who works as an office clerk for the Order of Thieves, Hades, God of the underworld, chooses Lyra to be his surrogate in the God’s contest to decide who will hold the throne of Olympus . Besides the fun tasks the contestants must perform, this story details the romance between Hades and the human Lyra who is his chosen champion. The book is laced with humor and bantering conversations. A fun read if you enjoy setting aside logic and disbelief. 79% of mostly young, female readers rated 4 or 5 stars
Library Stats
Number of Books Borrowed in November
The 2025 New Year Requires a New Lions Flag Subscription
Leisure World Lions Club
The “FLY THE LIONS FLAG PROGRAM” is made easier by the Lions new email address: lwlionsflags@ gmail.com.
Use this Gmail to secure a new application for 2025 (including all residents who previously participated in this fundraiser). All must submit a new application for 2025. This project has been revamped for this year.
Using the computer address above, ask for a new application to be sent to you via your computer, copy, and mail back with $40.00 (which will cover the whole year) to:
LEISURE WORLD LIONS CLUB
P.O. BOX 6905, MESA, AZ 85216
(Yes, it really is 85216.)
Make checks payable to Leisure World Lions club. Don’t forget the stamp!
Look forward to an American flag installed temporarily in front of your manor six times a year: PRESIDENTS DAY
MEMORIAL DAY
FLAG DAY
4th of JULY
LABOR DAY/PATRIOTS DAY
VETERANS DAY
Contact Allanah Courson: Thecutecourson@gmail. com or Dennis Heimpel: Drheimpel@hotmail.ca. Use the Lions email for applications, concerns, and/ or problems.
2025 New Year… Updated Mailboxes
Remember, the Lions Club will paint your mailbox black (according to LW rules) and include new manor numbers for only $25.00! This is a fundraiser where all monies are donated at the end of the Lions fiscal year. Contact: Joy Kosterman 360-903-4930
Did you come and enjoy the Lions Fall Frolic, “Harvest of Good Times” on November 21? It was a fundraiser supporting the veterans connected to “Bridging Arizona,” a group that helps vets get a step up! This includes housing, furniture and most household goods. This Lions fall event earned approximately $3,000, which was donated to this positive group!
Look forward to another Lions fundraising dinner in February or March. Details to follow…welcoming spring.
Don’t forget to recycle aluminum cans and participate in our estate sales, English teas, pancake breakfasts, and other service projects.
The pancake breakfast will be held on the Tuesday (Fat Friday) before Lent begins.
If you are interested in joining our hard-working Lions Club, please contact Lion Jill Heimpel, membership chairperson, 480-213-9489.
LION BOB HUTTON “FLY THE FLAG” 2025
THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE LEISURE WORLD LIONS
Help Collect School Supplies For Local Students!
Students start back to school in January, so help us replenish the teacher’s pantry with school supplies. And of course, help the students directly with needed goods. Details to follow.
In January, the Lions Club will start collecting school supplies for Jefferson Elementary School year-round. As you are holiday shopping, as well as normal shopping, please continue checking all stores to help meet Jefferson Elementary School’s needs for the 2025 school year. The Lions hope to have a large accumulation to donate by July/August! A list of items they always need is attached.
Jefferson information submitted by Lion Kathy Murray: kmurray6694@gmail.com , 480-678-2277 Help Lions Help Others
PLEASE CHECK ONE: _______ NEW PARTICIPANT or _______ RENEWAL PARTICIPANT
Presidents Day Memorial Day Flag Day 4th of July Labor Day/Patriots Day Veterans’ Day
When you sign up to participate in the flag program, the Leisure World Lions Club will temporarily install and remove a 10’ pole with a 3’x5’ American Flag in your yard six times a year, for the above holidays.
FIRST FLAG: $40
Additional Flags: $20 each per year (multiple flags must be placed at same manor for discount)
NAME _____________________________________ MANOR #__ DISTRICT
Billing address if different from Manor #: ___________________________________________________
Please make checks payable to Leisure World Lions Club and mail, along with this form to: LEISURE WORLD LIONS CLUB, PO BOX 6905, MESA AZ 85216 (yes, it really is 85216) SIGNED DATE ________________ For further information or concerns, contact the Lions at lwlionsflags@gmail.com
Make Your Mailbox New Again!!
Have you looked at your mailbox lately?
The Arizona summer heat has really taken a toll on many of them throughout our Leisure World community! Please remember, as homeowners, it is our responsibility to maintain the appearance of our mailboxes.
The Leisure World Lions are here to help!
For a fee of just $25, a member of the Lions Club will paint your mailbox and make it look new again!
Kaitlyn Grubb of Gilbert, AZ, was the lucky winner of the Pottery Club’s raffle for “Tim” the turtle held during the Arts and Crafts Fair on November 19.
50TH
ANNIVERSARY
& 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION & EVERYONE IS INVITED! EVERYONE IS INVITED!
Celebrating 50 years of the LAWN
Celebrating 50 years of the LAWN BOWLS CLUB BOWLS CLUB
Free Lessons
Raffle Baskets
Bake Sale
Food Truck
History of Lawn Bowls from past Legendary members
Have FUN socializing with the residents of our community while we play. Have FUN socializing with residents of our community while we play. We’ve been here for 50 YEARS! We’ve been here for 50 YEARS!
See you on the green! See you on the green!
Date: Date: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15TH 2025 WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15TH 2025
Where: Where: T T he Green by the Lakeside Clubhouse he Green by the Lakeside Clubhouse
Everyone should have an End-of-Life Plan on decisions you have made for yourself, on yourself. Only you know what you want and need. If an Endof-Life Plan is not developed by you, then someone else will have to make plans for you.
End-of-Life plan includes:
• Prearrangement Information
• Veteran’s Benefits
• Family Support Options
• Social Security Benefits
• Life Insurance Information
• Financial & Credit Obligations
• Probating A Will
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Where: Rec. 1 Theater
Giving Credit Where Credit is Due
We would like to give credit to Maryellen Mikwold, she submitted a lovely photo to the L.W. Communications Office in 2013 to be used as the cover of the 2013 L.W. phone book. Last year we stumbled upon her photo in our dept. files and proudly placed it on the cover of the 2024 L.W. phone book.
Sadly, her photo was cataloged without her name, and we were unable to give her the proper credit. We want to acknowledge her for taking such a beautiful photo we still use almost 12 years later.
By Charlene Ingerson
Photo Club Begins Campaign to Raise Money for Theater Projector Replacement Fund
At the Art for a Cause silent auction to be held on Friday, January 31st, the Photography Club will kick off their campaign to raise money for the Leisure World Theater Projector Replacement Fund. The Photo Club is partnering with the Leisure World Art Association (LWAA) to raise money from the silent auction sales for capital improvements to their respective spaces.
The Photography Club, which normally meets in the Leisure World Theater, has chosen to use its portion of the auction proceeds to set up a Theater Projector Replacement Fund. In addition, there will be a separate donation box at the silent auction for those who wish to donate specifically to the Theater Projector Replacement Fund. This will be the start of a twomonth campaign by the Photo Club to raise money for this cause.
In addition to our club’s use of the space, the theater is one of the most used rooms in Leisure World. Moreover, its projection system is using outdated technology and showing signs of diminished image quality.
It will cost $6000 to replace the projector in our theater. Leisure World will fund half and Photo Club will be working to raise the other half. If more than $3000 is donated during campaign, any overage will be donated to our Leisure World Library - another worthy recipient for donated funds.
The current projector in the theater is 12 years old
and uses specialized lamps/bulbs to provide sufficient light for projection. These bulbs cost $400 - $500 to replace and have a limited 3-year life (sometimes less with heavy use). Consequently, this type of projector has a continuing cost over its lifetime.
However, projector technology has improved substantially since the purchase of our projector twelve years ago. In fact, the biggest innovation in the last few years is the development of affordable projectors that use a laser light source for projection.
Laser projectors use lasers, mirrors, and other optical components to project beams of light onto a screen. This type of projector has several advantages over the traditional projectors. Laser projectors are brighter, more energy efficient, have better color accuracy, and eliminate the need for replacement bulbs. Moreover, laser projectors last longer than traditional projectors, often exceeding 20,000 hours of use while significantly enhancing the image on screen. Great news for a heavily used asset.
We invite Leisure World residents to join us at the Art Studio on January 31st for a special evening of art, wine, and conversations with the artists. As noted above, there will also be a Projector Replacement Fund donation box at the auction that night. We hope to see you there!
However, if you’re not able to attend the LWAA/ Photography Club silent auction, donations can still be made for this fund by enclosing them in an
Bluegrass Returns to Leisure World!
This winter, the Recreation Department and the Arizona Bluegrass Association are again partnering to bring you “Pickin’ on the Prom.” Two hours of your bluegrass favorites will be played by acoustic musicians from all over the Valley. This is an open jam session, so tune up your acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo or other bluegrass instrument and join in. Not a picker?
That’s ok! We love to see lots of “grinners” out there toe-tapping and enjoying the music.
Mark your calendars now for the following dates: January 26, February 9 and 23, and March 9 and 23 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., and let the music begin!
A Brand-New Year
Submitted by Mary Louise Hendricksen
We have concluded another year as 2024 has come and gone. Now, we can look forward to a brand-new year of 2025. What are your expectations for the New Year? Let’s not forget the blessings and trials of 2024, but let’s also look forward with renewed hope of expectations for 2025. May we be faithful and true as we seek to help others, foster love and peace in our families and our world and continue to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Is this a big challenge? Yes, indeed it is, but Hebrews 12: 1-2 can be an encouragement to us. “We must run the race that lies ahead of us and never give up. We must focus on Jesus, the source and goal of our faith.”
May we all work together to make 2025 the very best year it can be.
envelope labeled Replacement Fund and putting them in either the Leisure World Business Mail box by the Administration Front Desk or the Photography Club lockbox at Manor 2312.
Thanksgiving Thanks
Did you attend, hear about, or wish you were at the Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, November 28, that was prepared by our own resident, professional Chef LaMott, and her cadre of Leisure World volunteers serving and preparing plated, hot turkey dinners at a sit-down meal?
Words from the chef….
“I was very blessed to be able to have done this great event for this outstanding community, which we love. Many strangers became friends on Thanksgiving!”
1 Peter 4:9&10
“Practice hospitality without grumbling. We are all given gifts to use to serve others as good stewards of God’s grace. It was a memorable event that will be talked about for the foreseeable future!
Easter- April 20, 2025, Sunday- There will be three different times for when to sign up. Reservations are a must through the Recreation Department at Rec 1. There are no exceptions. You may have a maximum reservation of eight people, as tables only seat eight.
Look forward to the next Leisure World Community Holiday Traditions Dinner event:
Please look for LW residents, including neighbors, who are alone or shut-ins. Perhaps help make a reservation for them!
If interested in volunteering, please email Doris @ cheflamott@gmail.com. We need servers, dishing food people, registration, hosts, and some especially strong younger men to help with all the washing of the China!
Remember, Come as a Stranger, Return as a Friend!
Written by Renee Menard and Doris LaMott Hoel, Chef LaMott
Silver Anniversary with Memories from the Archives
The following is a reprint from our club’s archives.
The history of Moonlight Serenade, contributed by Pat Qually.
The Moonlight Serenade Dance Club was formed in 1999 by a small group of people who had a common interest in dancing. At that time, Leisure World had two other formal dance clubs, the Century Club and the Stardusters, which were full and not accepting new members.
Over a six-month period, the committee spent many hours organizing Moonlight Serenade. The board’s goal was not only to have Moonlight Serenade be the best dance club in Leisure World but to start out as the best dance club in Leisure World.
From the inaugural “Charter Members Ball” on November 15th, 1999, to the last dance of the season in March 2000, “On the Road Again”, members had a great time and got more than their money’s worth. Mel Eidsmoe and his Bubble Machine played at the inaugural ball; Myron Sommerfeld played for the February dance.
The 1999 - 2000 booklet and dance season were dedicated to Dottie Patterson, who started it all, was club advisor and dance teacher to many of the members, and who recruited committee members, volunteers and club members. She gave encouragement and the occasional gentle nudge to make the Moonlight Serenade Dance Club a reality. One hundred and eight couples were members during the charter season with 34 couples on the waiting list.
Moonlight Serenade is now in its 17th season and the only surviving formal Dance Club in Leisure World. At the time of writing (December 2015) our membership stands at 106 couples, which includes 14 Charter Members (see following article).
Active Charter Members honored.
To a richly deserved round of applause our 14 Active
Charter Members were honored by President George Flaskerud at our January 2016 “African Adventure”. Active Charter Members are those who have been members since the club started in 1999. George thanked board member Pat Qually for suggesting the idea and for following up with the necessary research. Later in the evening a formal photograph of the honorees was taken by club member Tom Feluk. They are: Back row: (l to r): Anne and Joe Rowbotham, Marie and Don Murphy, Frank Rutledge, Bill Cline, Dorothy Daley (passed away, 2019. Dorothy’s smile is sorely missed.)
Front row (l to r): Phyllis and Michael Hallatt, Delford Benson, Arne Bongart, Sue Rutledge, Nancy Cline, Maxine Griffith (passed away; a valued charter member. We shall miss her support and loyalty to the end.)
Since this article was printed, we have had presidents Earl McEntyre 2012 to 2014, George Flaskerud 2014 to 2017, Ron and Kathy Litzenberger in 2017 to 2022, Howard Standage 2020 to 2021, Jim McCown and Joy Kosterman in 2022 to 2024.
Thanks to the efforts of strong leadership backed by a supportive Board and membership MSDC still proudly ranks as the only formal dance club in Leisure World. We currently have 85 member couples.
We appreciate the people that have made our club such a premiere dance club.
Submitted by Jerry Mundell and Linda Matheson, current president.
Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events 2025
Most of the astronomical events on this calendar can be seen with an unaided eye, although some may require a good pair of binoculars for best viewing. Many of the events and dates that appear here were obtained from the U.S. Naval Observatory, The Old Farmer’s Almanac., and the American Meteor Society.
• January 3, 4 - Quadrantids Meteor Shower.
• January 10 - Venus at Greatest Eastern Elongation.
• January 16 - Mars at Opposition. March 8 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation.
• March 14 - Total Lunar Eclipse.
• March 20 - March Equinox.
• March 29 - Partial Solar Eclipse.
• April 21 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation.
• April 22, 23 - Lyrids Meteor Shower.
• May 6, 7 - Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower.
• May 31 - Venus at Greatest Western Elongation.
• June 21 - June Solstice.
• July 4 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation.
• July 28, 29 - Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower.
• August 12, 13 - Perseids Meteor Shower.
• August 19 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation.
• September 7 - Total Lunar Eclipse.
• September 21 - Partial Solar Eclipse.
• September 21 - Saturn at Opposition.
• September 22 - September Equinox.
• September 23 - Neptune at Opposition.
• October 7 - Draconids Meteor Shower.
• October 21, 22 - Orionids Meteor Shower.
• October 29 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation.
• November 4, 5 - Taurids Meteor Shower.
• November 17, 18 - Leonids Meteor Shower.
• November 21 - Uranus at Opposition.
• December 7 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation.
• December 13, 14 - Geminids Meteor Shower.
• December 21 - December Solstice.
• December 21, 22 - Ursids Meteor Shower.
You can read full descriptions for each of these events at seasky.org.
JANUARY ART CHAPTER
By Monica Beatrice
January. What comes to my mind is a time to begin. Begin again? Reflect? Go forward? Do something new and different? With all those thoughts comes history. We Leisure Worldians, indeed, have history! And great history to share! Author Lailah Akita put it well with these words, “The glory of older people is their insight into life”.
Just recently, the Art Club discovered a massive amount of history about the club and about Leisure World in several photo albums found in the Art Studio. The history goes back to the early 1970s. I found those albums fascinating. What was written and what appeared in photos can give us insight as to where the club was and possibly where we’re going.
Then and Now
contacted to create some easels. Corky Calkins came up with a gavel and 10 easels for the LWAA. Dare I say that the Woodworking Club arose due to the needs of the Art Association?
The Art Club, according to Eldon, met frequently and often had coffee together (Dare I say that the Coffee Hour arose due to the socialization of the art group?).
Let me reflect on the birth of the club from around 1974. Much of this information comes from an article written then by Eldon Schmad, a founding member of the Leisure World Art Association (LWAA).
Eldon called those beginnings a warm, friendly experience, and he referred to Leisure World as a happy, enticing environment. Residents in 1974 didn’t waste time as they jumped into activity! The Recreation Department hired Lee Finn to teach oil painting, followed by a watercolor teacher. Residents gathered almost daily to paint and draw and critique each other. Eldon claimed that admirable works of art emerged quickly.
As necessity is the mother of invention, a need arose for easels. Hence, some resident woodworkers were
Well, the club was busy, and, with all newly formed groups, cash was needed. Three club founders creatively started a paper recycling project. Near the main entrance of Leisure World was a bin to collect newsprint. The club quickly made $70 for books and supplies. I’m sure some of these books are yet in the Art Studio! As the bottom fell out of the newsprint market, that fundraising came to a halt. It’s unclear how the club made money after that.
The club did prevail, bylaws were adopted, more memories made, film and slide presentations were made for education, and a lot of breath-taking artwork resulted. The founding Art Club artists shared their insight into life together year after year. At the end of his article, Eldon lists 23 ‘oldtimers’ who founded the Art Club. And here we are in 2025.
are held to educate and “just for fun.” Art shows are held. Monthly meetings are held to support club activities. Funds are raised to make improvements. Joy and exuberance are there! Truly, not much has changed.
Begin again? No. Reflect and go forward? Somewhat. Just continue? Of course. Those who started the Art Club laid a fine foundation to be admired. The facilities are there. The spirit is there. The artists, indeed, are there. The Art Club was one of the first and finest clubs in Leisure World and will be in the future. It’s there to support our residents’ artistic talents.
Joy and exuberance were the emotions expressed in the photos, newspaper articles, and even club minutes in those old albums. Not much has changed with the Art Association. Excellent classes
JANUARY FEATURED ARTIST
Please note some photos taken from the albums. If you are interested in more history of the club and of Leisure World, a lot can be found in those books. They are in the Art Studio. Contact an Art Club board member if you wish to borrow one or more albums to view at home.
Donald Christianson – Watercolour Artist
I have always been interested in the creative process. When you sit down to draw or paint, your brain kicks in, and your sense of freedom is matched by the expansion of time. Even when I start the same subject for the third time, I am optimistic that something magical will happen. As a child in Saskatchewan, my mother would draw for me in church when the sermon went on a little too long. She drew horses mostly, and I would try and imitate them. A bit later, my father agreed to let me register for the Minneapolis Art Correspondence Course. The best part of that was that I have a drawing board and T-square that I still use.
It is only in the last few years that being retired from teaching music has allowed me the time to pursue what
was a spark back then. I am still fascinated by water and paint and don’t paint in other mediums. I was inspired by Sebastiao Pereira, who was teaching watercolors in Leisure World. He is a patient teacher who has a light touch that is helpful with transparent paint. Learning just the right combination of paint and water on paper is a fun challenge, even when you have a few do overs.
I don’t have any particular subject that I like to paint. The early florals have given way to birds, horses and now animals with two eyes. The second eye is always the challenge, as it must balance with the first. I am also trying to paint with complementary colors, which means using the color directly opposite on the color wheel, like blue complements orange. I hope that you
enjoy my watercolors. You can take one home, if you wish.
Over the past eight years, I have hosted four shows in support of fresh-water wells in Uganda. The wells are dedicated to someone I have lost. The first well in Mahdengo was for my friend Allen, the second well in Bunyika was for my dad Gordon, the third well in Okolimeri was for my mother Doreen, and the just completed well four in Otisa was for my nephew Chad. Water 4 Kids is a Phoenix based foundation that to date has drilled over 1,000 wells in Uganda. They have a great website, if you would like to help with their many projects.
First President of Art Club.
Kitty Steer
Fox
If you’re experiencing pain, burning, numbness, tingling or pins & needles in your hands or feet --Don’t miss this FREE Seminar on Peripheral Neuropathy!
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TUESDAY January 14th @11:30AM
INTEGRITY NEUROPATHY CENTER 1122 S GREENFIELD RD, #102, MESA
LUNCH WILL BE SERVED. SPACE IS LIMITED TO 15! RSVP: BY Jan 10th @ (480) 820-9147
DR. AARON T SHAPIRO, DC, BCN
Greetings Leisure World Residents from your Community Owned Real Estate Brokerage, ReMax Classic. We are the only real estate brokerage that contributes directly back to Leisure World Community Association through our real estate sales compensation.
ReMax Classic agents are highly experienced, professional, diligent and above all Leisure World experts. We can meet all your real estate needs. Our ReMax Classic office is located just east of Leisure World Tennis courts for your convenience.
ReMax Classic listings in Leisure World closes escrow quicker and for more money than outside Leisure World agents. In 2024, as of this writing, the average ReMax Classic Manor price was $16 per square feet more and we closed escrows in 8 days less. We can achieve higher price for your home due to our experience in the real estate market and our overall Leisure World access.
We encourage all owners to stop by our office and receive a FREE Manor evaluation for the Manor’s value. The market continues to be a slight Seller’s market and knowing the value of your home is vital in making sound decisions.
As your trusted Brokerage, if you are thinking about selling your home, please don’t give away your equity. There are many cash buyers, and their offer may seem terrific but call ReMax Classic to get a second opinion before proceeding.
Warm regards,
Mike Ryan, Designated Broker Re/Max Classic | 480-832-7451
By Tish Murphy
Lawn Bowling: Leisure World’s Best-Kept Secret
Is it bowling? Bocce? Curling? NO, it’s lawn bowling — a very dynamic outdoor sport spanning more than 600 years. It has its own unique history here in Leisure World!
“We think it’s very important to preserve and share our history,” says Lawn Bowling Club Past President Dan Aicher. “Only a small percentage of Leisure World residents are familiar with the sport. It’s one of the bestkept secrets that needs to be told.”
“A History of Leisure World Lawn Bowls Club 19741987,” by K. Otto Logan, the fourth President of the Lawn Bowling Club, was recently discovered. This hidden gem shares how lawn bowling began in Leisure World including club notes, photos and newspaper articles. The following historical information is featured in this book.
A Years-Old Tradition
You may not know that lawn bowling has been enjoyed for centuries. It can be traced as far back as 5,200 BC in ancient Egypt where similar games were played. But it wasn’t until 1299 in Southampton, England that the first known lawn bowling club was formed.
The game developed quite the following and was even enjoyed by royalty, including Queen of England Ann Boleyn, who reigned from 1533 to 1536. Sir Francis Drake of England was infamous for refusing to fight against the invading Spanish Armada until he finished his lawn bowling game. His statue, depicting a lawn bowler, sits in Plymouth, England. Historical lawn bowling aficionados include George Washington and renowned English poet William Shakespeare.
Lawn bowling hasn’t changed very much. The friendly sport still enjoys many of the same noble traditions, including exchanging greetings at the beginning and the end of a game and always remaining respectful to other players. Since 2014, lawn bowlers no longer wear white attire - now only reserved for tournaments.
Debuting in Leisure World
Early 1970s -Lawn bowling was first introduced in Leisure World when Eldon and Claire Schmad moved into Leisure World and wanted to share their love of the sport with the community.
In January 1974, Eldon worked with the Recreational Director on establishing our club. The couple also received support from Sun City’s club who helped procure the basic equipment. Within two months, the bowling green was on track and all the supplies – rakes, mats, the jack and bowls had arrived. Later that summer, they finalized the equipment house, scoring boards, measuring tapes and scheduled training sessions.
Officially launched in Leisure World on October 18th, 1974 and named the Golden Hills Lawn Bowling Club, we will be celebrating 50 years of bowling in January of 2025.
Going Green – Literally
As the club grew, the upkeep of the greens where the game was played became crucial. In the summer of 1979, the club worked with Leisure World’s maintenance crew to change the playing area to a tiff-green Bermuda grass, which would withstand drought and frequent play.
Lawn bowlers understood how important the greens were to their game, so they decided to help the maintenance crew plant 77,000 Tifgreen Bermuda grass stems in one week. By early fall the grass was ready for play.
With beautiful greenery, the club continued to soar. In November 1980, the club’s executive committee decided to change its name to Leisure World Lawn Bowlers Club and a new era had begun.
Expanding with Lakeside Clubhouse
Needing a place to mingle and store their equipment the club began fundraising efforts but Western Savings had a soft spot for the club. In February of 1986, Western Savings donated $65,000 to support creating a clubhouse.
“The Lawn Bowling Club has assisted greatly in the development of Leisure World,” said then-Project Manager and Western Savings Vice-President John A. Jacobs in a letter to the Leisure World Board of Directors. “The entrance to Leisure World is greatly enhanced by the attractiveness of the lawn bowling green.”
The Lakeside Clubhouse officially opened in May 29, 1986.
Nourishing Body and Soul
“There are a lot of competitive sports, but lawn bowling gives you something different,” explains Dan Aicher. “In lawn bowling, you have five seconds to think about your line and your angle. The rest of the time you’re walking back and forth socializing. There’s always lots of laughter and fun while you play.” It is also very restorative, providing health benefits. People also use it as therapy. You walk about a mile a game while bending and stretching. It’s good for your body and your mind.
LWLBC welcomes all residents, regardless of their physical ability. Come out and enjoy the fun!
50th Celebration of Lawn Bowls Lakeside Clubhouse Wednesday, January 15th 10:00am-3:00pm
COME JOIN THE FUN- COMMUNITY WELCOME!
FEEL TAKEN CARE OF, AT EVERY TURN
If you want senior living options, we have plenty of them. Plus, with communities near the neighborhoods you know and love, you can take advantage of our range of care levels and services while remaining close to your familiar surroundings and friendships.
• Independent Living, Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care
• Desired amenities, including balconies and kitchenettes
• Full-time nurses on staff*
Learn about the advantage in moving to a community that offers the care you need on one campus.
*Not applicable to independent living.
Brookdale Apache Junction
Independent Living
Assisted Living
2080 S. Ironwood Drive Apache Junction, Arizona 85120 (928) 484-9046
Brookdale Baywood
Assisted Living
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 310 South 63rd Street Mesa, Arizona 85206 (928) 493-1667
Brookdale East Arbor
Assisted Living 6060 East Arbor Avenue Mesa, Arizona 85206 (928) 484-2189
Brookdale East Mesa
Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 6145 East Arbor Avenue Mesa, Arizona 85206 (928) 493-1107
Brookdale Springs Mesa
Independent Living
Assisted Living 6220 East Broadway Road Mesa, Arizona 85206 (928) 493-6034
ME’S CORNER OF BLESSINGS
Mary Ellen doValle
It’s 2025! I remember when I was in elementary school watching the Mickey Mouse Club. We were called the leaders of the twenty-first century. Little did I think I would have experienced the whirlwind of history and inventions that have occurred throughout my years. As each year passes and a new year arrives, I reflect on the past one and pray for the new one.
This is usually a time when folks make resolutions (many of which are kept for a month or less). They regularly begin with a negative statement: “I need to eat less,” “I won’t do this or that.” Why not resolve to make a more positive statement? “I will smile more.” “I will
Every Christmas, my hubby loved to surprise me with a different type of gift. On one particular Christmas, his surprise gift was a ride up in a glider. I had never taken a ride in a glider before, and I didn’t really know that much about what a glider was.
So, I had to ask myself (seriously) did I really want to take the chance of stepping off the ground and going up into the unknown, not knowing where I was going? No!
Nevertheless, after digging up some courage, I found myself arriving at the landing strip. I had even managed to cajole my young son to go with me!
“It will be fine,” I told him.
As the pilot approached us, he said, “You two for the ride? Follow me!”
We started walking toward what looked like a small, yellow-colored plane laying on its side in the grass. Cautiously, I asked, “Is that it?”
be more understanding.” “I will really listen to what people are saying.” “I will gladly share with others.”
This is not only a new year but should also be a new chance to wipe the slate clean and begin a fresh start, leaving behind any sad experiences. This is the time to rise up, look at yourself in the mirror, and reflect on the blessings you have received and be grateful for them. It is a time to share those blessings with others. Reach out to neighbors, friends, and strangers, and distribute kindness, appreciation, and blessings.
May the year 2025 be one of good health, happiness, and peace to you and yours. Happy New Year.
He nodded and motioned for us to climb into the back seat. There was a narrow, wooded seat at the back (for us) and one small seat up front for the pilot.
“Hold on tight,” he said. “It will take me a minute to get off the ground.”
I shut my eyes, not knowing what to expect. Then, I felt the glider shudder, and then the “flying machine” started moving forward.
Suddenly, we were off the ground and in the air! Wow! What a view! We were gliding over areas of land I had never seen before.
From this height, the Earth looked very different. It was serene and more beautiful than I ever imagined!
We continued gliding along for a while, then abruptly, everything changed.
Suddenly, what looked like the sky above was now on the ground, and the ground was now the sky!
The pilot was flying the plane upside down!
It was shocking! I looked at my son. He had turned pale. His eyes were tightly closed, his hands clenched together, and he was definitely not happy!
Suddenly, we were right side up again. It felt like I had just moved through time and space.
As we glided on, the pilot remarked casually, “I hope I can still land this thing.”
The pilot appeared to be struggling to manage the controls. Then, with a thud, it felt like we’d finally landed!
I looked at my son; we were both so happy to feel our feet back on the ground!
WOW! WHAT AN EXPERIENCE! (It was another moment of my life.)
H. McClellan - 1685
January Upcoming Movies & Classics
By: Dian A. Prince
January 17: Presence (R)
A family moves into a suburban house and becomes convinced they’re not alone.
January 17: Wolfman (R)
Blake, a husband and father, inherits his childhood home in Oregon after his father vanishes. With his marriage to his wife fraying, Blake persuades her to visit with their daughter, but they’re attacked by an
unseen animal and barricade themselves inside the home. However, Blake begins transforming into something unrecognizable, and his wife is forced to decide which terror, inside or outside, is more lethal.
January 24: Flight Risk (NR)
Mark Wahlberg plays a pilot transporting an air marshal accompanying a fugitive to trial. As they cross the Alaskan wilderness, tensions soar and trust is tested, as not everyone on board is who they seem.
MLK Parade & Festival in Mesa!
Join us as we come together to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day with our signature parade and festival! Under the theme “Building Bridges: Cultivating our Community,” this event will honor Dr. King’s legacy.
January 20th, 2025, from 11:00-4:00 PM. Plaza at Mesa City Center, 56 E. Main St., Mesa, AZ, 85201
The parade runs down Center St. and the festival is at the Plaza at Mesa City Center.
Living History Day: The Trades, Crafts, Skills, and Arts of the Historic Southwest
January 11th, 2025
10:00am to 2:00pm
$9.00
Presidio Museum
196 N. Court Avenue
Tucson, AZ 85701
United States
Visitors will get an in-depth look at the types of jobs or skills that men and women had in the eighteenth- and nineteenth- centuries. Also included are the arts and crafts that emerged from being part of New Spain and Mexico at this time. In the past, activities have focused on the life of a Presidio soldier, the territorial homemaker, hazards in the 1800s and how easy it was for people to poison themselves, Colcha embroidery, the art of alebrijes and the Virgin de Guadalupe, tastings of handmade tortillas, and performances of traditional Spanish music. Visit the Presidio Museum website to register.
Arizona’s Quilters Guild: Quilt AZ 2025 “Sew Whimsical”
Sourced from arizonasquiltersguild.org
January 16-18, 2025, at the Mesa Convention Center, Mesa, AZ
“Sew Whimsical “ invites creators to explore their imagination, experiment with unique designs, and bring a sense of whimsy to every stitch, making the quilting experience not just a skillful endeavor but also a delightful journey of self-expression and creativity.
Ticket Price: (tickets only available at the door)
$5 a person - Thursday
$12 a person - Friday and Saturday Children under 12 are free
Hours:
Thursday, January 16 - 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Friday, January 17 - 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Saturday, January 18 - 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Queen Creek Library Hosting an Adult Puzzle Tournament
Sourced from queencreekaz.gov.
Do you have what it takes to be the first team to complete a 300-piece puzzle? Create a team with your friends (up to four people per team) to become the ultimate puzzle champions! If you don’t have a team beforehand, join fellow puzzlers to create a new team!
Each team will attempt to complete the same puzzle in a two-hour time limit.
January 17, 2025
2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Zane Grey Community Room at the Queen Creek Library 21802 S. Ellsworth Road Queen Creek, Arizona 85142
Start the New Year Right
By Kaye West
It’s 2025, and it’s a new year! A quarter of the 21st century is now history (Unbelievable!). What will you do this year to begin to increase your health and joy?
Jeffrey Rosen, in his new book The Pursuit of Happiness, explains the meaning of that phrase for the founders of our country in writing the Declaration of Independence and calling for a government supporting “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Rather than a common contemporary view, meaning the pursuit of pleasure, our founders adopted the philosophy of classical writers who believed that joy was found in continuous self-improvement, though recognizing that the goal post continually changes, so one never reaches the sought for “perfection.”
Nevertheless, would you like to improve your health with enjoyable physical activity? Are you interested in keeping your brain healthy with a life-long learning endeavor? Might you like to improve your social life, meet new friends, and interact with folks whose life experience was different from yours? Do you need an activity to share with your spouse or which provides time away from the stresses of modern living?
If your answer to any of those questions is “yes,” then you are a perfect candidate for learning to do partnership dancing, because it addresses all of those situations! You might begin with social dancing to learn some of the basic rhythms and patterns as described below. Also consider joining a round dance class (new lessons, with no dance experience required, are beginning this month; see the Shall We Round Dance Club article in section C).
Round dancing provides for continual learning and growth in a phased sequence (so dancers can chart their own progress) with workshops to learn new routines, dances to practice dance sequences previously learned, and many opportunities for socializing and travel. While Mesa is the “Round Dance Capital of the Universe,” there are instructors in many places (on the internet see roundalab.org > Dances and Classes > Find an Instructor) and upcoming events are available at the same location and also at the International Choreographed Ballroom Dance Association (ICBDA) website (icbda.com > left-hand menu).
Health professionals suggest that happiness can be attained by providing service to others. Therefore, you can help yourself as well as others if you teach what you know about dancing to someone else! After all, research has shown that the best way to learn something is to teach it to another person. And since partnership dancing is something which can be learned and enjoyed by children as well as adults of every age, there are multiple folks who can be selected to teach (friends, neighbors, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren). Informal surveys have revealed that about seventy-five percent of folks would like to learn to do partnership dancing!
Don’t have a partner? Your spouse avoids the opportunity? No problem! Attend as a solo or invite a friend of the same gender to partner you!
You say you don’t know how to dance yourself, let alone teach someone else? There is help available readily to anyone in the world via the internet! Go to home.csulb. edu/~kwest/wido/wi-do.html. This is the main page for Walk In, Dance Out information provided by Larry Caves, who was the director of the ballroom dance program at Arizona State University (ASU) for twenty-seven years. It includes material to learn partnership dancing sequentially beginning from scratch (to date seven lessons are provided plus a step-by-step tutorial for folks to master the first rhythm: SlowSlow-Quick-Quick).
Also on this site is abundant (and growing) information about round dancing. There are links to videos (describing round dancing in thirty-seconds plus many videos of round dance routines in many rhythms being demonstrated with cues named ahead of the figures being done) and sources for a wealth of knowledge about round dancing, including articles describing aspects of partnership dancing, understanding timing, body awareness, harmonious movement, the benefits of partnership dancing, and the promise of arts (dance) education.
Additionally, under the link Round Dance Rhythms Chart, there are twenty rhythms listed by categories which are the most commonly done in round dance circles. Each rhythm has a page including a link to a chart of the round dance figures in that rhythm listed by phase so folks can monitor their own progress as well as identifying places where more information about how to dance the figures is available online.
Many of the figures are flagged with an asterisk, which identifies those which have diagrams of footprints along with written descriptions for those who would like to have such reference information. One source (Cold Feet II) is available free to anyone in the world via the internet at icbda.com (left-hand menu). Other books are available free for those who join ICBDA (dues are only $15.00 per person per year).
Following is a recap of the six rhythms introduced in the first seven lessons (published monthly in this newspaper and preserved for anyone and everyone on my website cited above), showing the timing pattern and the Lead’s footwork (Follows do the natural opposite). Notice all the similarities! All dancing is based on a limited number of timing patterns and ways one can move! Full explanations for the patterns are available in the lessons themselves.
Social Foxtrot (SSQQ)
Position123456
Closed Position Forward L Forward R Side LClose R
Nine Social Foxtrot patterns are summarized in Lesson 4.
Single Swing (SSQQ) Position123456
Low Butterfly Side L (Bend R Knee)Side R (Bend L Knee)Rock Apart L Recover R
Four Single Swing patterns are described in Lesson 4.
Triple Swing (Q/&Q Q/&Q QQ) Position1&23&456
Low Butterfly Side L Close R Side L Side R Close L Side RRock Apart L Recover R
Lesson 4 explains that the Single Swing patterns can be danced as Triple Swing patterns by substituting each Slow (two counts) with a Chasse’ (three changes of weight) using the same two counts. One can also begin with the Rock Apart, Recover, followed by two Chasse’s (QQ Q/&Q Q/&Q).
Waltz Box (123456) Position123456
Closed Position Forward LSide RClose LBack RSide LClose R
Five additional Waltz patterns are described in Lesson 5.
Rumba Box (SQQ SQQ) Position12345678
Closed Position Forward L (hold) Side RClose L Back R (hold) Side LClose R
Three more Rumba patterns are described in Lesson 6. This timing pattern was used to match the steps in the Waltz Box. Rumba timing can also be QQS (starting with a side step).
Cha Cha (QQ Q/&Q) – American Style Basic Position123&4567&8
Closed Position Rock Forward L Recover R Side LClose R Side L Rock Back R Recover L Side RClose L Side R
Four other Cha Cha patterns are included in Lesson 7.
Cha Cha Patterns Converted to Rumba Patterns (QQS) Position12345678
Closed Position Rock Forward L Recover R Side L (hold) Rock Back R Recover L Side R (hold)
Each of the Cha Cha patterns described in Lesson 7 can be converted to Rumba patterns by substituting each Chasse’ (three changes of weight) with one Slow step (one change of weight).
Note that each of the above patterns can be danced repeatedly, so one pattern alone permits one to “walk in and dance out” at a social dance situation! So challenge yourself to master one lesson at a time sufficiently to teach it to someone else (which will further reinforce your own learning). Also share this information widely! Know that you are improving your own health and joy in doing so as well as helping others to enjoy this fabulous partnership activity!
TRANSPLANTED GARDENER
By Sherry Rindels-Larsen
Happy New Year!
Ringing in the new year inspires many to make positive changes to improve themselves. Whether your resolution includes eating healthier, exercising more, saving money, being more adventurous, relaxing more, or trying something new…gardening is the route to successful resolutions.
Let’s start with eating healthier. The Valley is a wonderful place to garden. Our climate allows us to grow some types of vegetable year-round. There aren’t many things that taste better than a BLT made with a fresh vine-ripened tomato in April or May instead of waiting until July. The Valley allows vegetable gardeners to try plants and varieties not easily grown in other parts of the country. Artichokes and peanuts aren’t commonly grown in many Midwest gardens. Container and raised bed gardening suits gardeners of all skill levels and space availability. Fresh, locally-grown produce is always a healthy choice.
Vegetables aren’t the only healthy items we can grow. As low desert dwellers, we can grow many fruit trees with low chilling requirements, including persimmon, Asian pear, apricot, plum, peach, nectarine, Jujube, and fig trees. Like citrus, most fruit trees need regular watering throughout summer to thrive and produce good-quality fruit. Nut trees can also be grown in the low desert. Pecans and almonds are suitable for growing here. Select recommended varieties for this area, whether it’s vegetables, nuts, or fruit trees.
If you want to try something new, don’t neglect trying out the old by growing native plants. Mesquite pods can be used to make flour high in fiber and gluten-free. The prickly pear, both the pads and fruit, are edible and nutritious, and harvesting and preparation may be quite an adventure. Be sure to use tongs, and wear gloves to harvest.
Onto the common resolution of exercising more.
Gardening uses all the major muscle groups (legs, buttocks, shoulders, and arms). It improves flexibility and strengthens joints. Gardening for 30 minutes daily can lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, help prevent diabetes and heart disease, and prevent or slow osteoporosis. Breaking up exercise into short bursts is beneficial, too, if you can’t handle 30 minutes at a time. Weed for 10 minutes, prune for 10 minutes, and rake for 10 minutes at different times of the day. Exaggerate movements to achieve a full range of motion, and change your stances to use different muscles. Stretching and warming up before jumping in can help to avoid being stiff and sore. Vary your activities as well to avoid straining your body. Weeding can burn over 180 calories in 30 minutes, as can pruning and planting trees.
Many find gardening a relaxing way to eliminate the day’s stressors and improve mental health. Tending plants (deadheading spent flowers, removing dead leaves, repotting, planting containers, watering) puts us in the current moment Successful efforts (harvesting a crop, plants thriving) build self-esteem and feelings of accomplishment. Gardening activities release dopamine,
Resources:
the feel-good hormone, leading to less anxiety and happier feelings. Even failures help because of the gain of knowledge and experience.
Gardening reduces grocery costs for many families. Even when restricted to growing in a few containers, lettuce, spinach, radishes, cilantro, basil, and rosemary save a few dollars. I find gardening saves me a bundle in therapy costs.
If your New Year’s resolutions include meeting new people and learning more about gardening in Arizona, please join me and other members of the Sonoran Desert Club every third Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. We meet in the Theater or on the Promenade at Rec 1.
Sherry Rindels-Larsen is a Maricopa County Master Gardener and President of the Sonoran Desert Club.
Vegetable Planting Calendar for Maricopa County: https://arizona.aws.openrepository.com/handle/10150/144780
Deciduous Fruit and Nuts for the Low Desert: https://extension.arizona.edu/publication/deciduous-fruit-and-nutslow-desert
Eating Cactus: Prickly Pear for Food: https://extension.unr.edu/publication.aspx?PubID=2157
Gardening as Exercise: https://garden.org/learn/articles/view/126/Gardening-is-Exercise/
The Many Mental Health Benefits of Gardening: https://extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/ adams/news/the-many-mental-health- benefits-of-gardening
Embark on a New Adventure
Start your summer with a new lifestyle that empowers you to connect, grow, and celebrate meaningful moments! For one monthly price, our professional team handles everything, from freshly prepared meals to weekly housekeeping, allowing you to enjoy fivestar living with peace of mind. Start your adventure with us and get more from your retirement!
2025 Walking For Fitness
By Ronda Gates
When it comes to exercise, Canadian and US residents continue to vote with their feet. Walking is Canada’s number one physical activity, and in the US, 60% of Americans report walking for exercise every week. That’s good news because walking for exercise has the lowest drop-out rate of any other fitness activity.
Many years ago, when I was an enthusiastic advocate of walking for fitness, I told my favorite mentor, Dr. George Sheehan, “the running doctor,” about my plans to create a formal walking program for a national organization. George gave me an inquisitive look and asked, “Why would you have to lead people on a walk”? This natural-born runner found my plan to include instruction in “walking technique” astonishing. Undeterred, I forged ahead. My program turned slow walkers into fast walkers as I added tips that could increase fitness by properly adding arm motions. We encouraged paying attention to our effort by remembering that body alignment and posture are fundamental to walking for fitness.
Ultimately, adding these strategies became a national movement for Danskin where I was fortunate to travel with Nadia COmenici to promote Danskin Heart Walking.
Nonetheless, I agree with Dr. George. You don’t need much instruction to walk for fitness. But if you aim to enhance your fitness by using walking as a weight loss or weight management tool, you must develop a fast, sustainable pace, which is described as power walking. Like any skill, power walking takes practice. While walking, your head should be neutral but relaxed, shoulders down and back, chest lifted, abdominals gently contracted with buttocks, and back relaxed.
Power walking includes a warm-up, stretches for the major muscle groups of the upper and lower leg, good body alignment, proper heel strike, foot roll, and pushoff (surprisingly difficult for some walkers), and efficient use of the arms to support increased speed. You can increase caloric burn by adding an around-the-waist weight belt—an especially useful technique for building bones to deter changes that can lead to osteoporosis.
Goals: burn more calories, increase aerobic conditioning, increase strength, speed and distance
PERFORMANCE WALKING
10 minute miles
Goals: coptimum health and the ability to perform at a peak level by using measured training methos
Your goal for fitness walking is a minimum 15-minute mile with a long-term goal to cover a mile in 12 minutes or less. If you get faster, you’ll be termed a race walker or find it more efficient to break into a jog. That’s what George discovered when he went on a memorable walk with me in the hills of Portland, OR, several years before he died. After our outing he apologized for giving me static and admitted the effort was more intensive than the running pace he was used to.
No matter how you walk, remember that safety is also a critical element to success. Walking in Leisure World is safe. However, here are some additional tips:
• Know your route and tell someone what it is and when you expect to return.
• If possible, walk with a friend.
• Vary your route.
• Don’t wear expensive jewelry.
• In Arizona weather, carry a water bottle.
• If walking roadside, always walk facing traffic.
• Wear reflective clothing.
• Carr y a phone and carry emergency contact information.
• Always trust your instincts.
In short, walking is not only good for improving physical health, but it also improves mental health by relaxing into a routine, social health when you walk with or greet others, and emotional health. Consider adding it to ensure you have a Happy New Year.
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The “Bad” Cholesterol You Probably Didn’t Know About: Uncovering Lp(a)
Tyler Miller, MD, PhD Medical Advisor, Patient Access
Managing our cholesterol is a familiar topic for many of us, with LDL (or “bad cholesterol”) often taking the focus in discussions about heart health. However, there’s another type of cholesterol that you might not be aware of – lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a). This lesser-known cholesterol is gaining attention for its potential impact on cardiovascular health.
What
is Lp(a)?
If LDL deserves to be called the “bad cholesterol,” then Lp(a) could be termed the “sticky complicator.” Lp(a) shares many of the trademarks that make LDL bad (building up in your arteries, making them harden and narrow), but Lp(a) is even worse because it’s stickier.
The Risks of Elevated Lp(a)
Having high Lp(a) can lead to a range of cardiovascular issues. Elevated Lp(a) contributes to the narrowing of arteries, promotes inflammation, and increases the likelihood of blood clots. These factors significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and nearly double the risk of having a stroke. Find out if you are at risk of elevated Lp(a) with a nocost blood test near you by visiting MyFreeHeartTest.com.
Why is Lp(a) Not Routinely Tested?
Despite the potential risks associated with high Lp(a) and the relative ease of checking Lp(a) with a blood test, Lp(a) is not typically a standard part of routine cholesterol testing. One reason for this gap is that most health insurers don’t cover the test. Another reason for the hesitation to learn about Lp(a) is that if elevated Lp(a) is detected, the available treatment options are limited. Another reason doctors don’t routinely test for Lp(a) is that some aren’t sure what to do about the results. Drugs like statins don’t work for lowering
Lp(a). To get a free Lp(a) blood test, visit MyFreeHeartTest.com.
Current Approach to Managing High
Lp(a)
In the absence of an approved treatment for Lp(a), doctors typically focus on managing a patient’s LDL cholesterol and helping them make lifestyle modifications. This approach is not aimed at directly lowering Lp(a) levels but serves as a strategy to reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
The Future of Lp(a) Treatment
The good news is that doctors and scientists are actively engaged in ongoing research regarding Lp(a). A number of promising developments are on the horizon, with potential treatments aimed specifically at lowering Lp(a). Some potential treatments are going through clinical trials now. The Future of Medicine program offers a free heart and kidney screening, which includes a test for Lp(a), and helps participants learn about and access clinical trial opportunities. Learn more at MyFreeHeartTest.com.
If you have concerns about your heart health, discuss your risks, including your Lp(a), with your doctor.
Dr. Miller is a Clinical Pathologist and Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, and the Broad
communities that are typically left out of the research process. SOURCES: Miksenas H, Januzzi JL, Natarajan
Senthilkumar A, Puthumana N, Mohan V. Elevated
By Marine Buffard
Working with Your Hands is Good for Your Brain
Retrieved from The Creativity Workshop
Activities like writing, gardening and knitting can improve your cognition and mood. Tapping, typing and scrolling? Less so.
The human hand is a marvel of nature. No other creature on Earth, not even our closest primate relatives, has hands structured quite like ours, capable of such precise grasping and manipulation.
But we’re doing less intricate hands-on work than we used to. A lot of modern life involves simple movements, such as tapping screens and pushing buttons, and some experts believe our shift away from more complex hand activities could have consequences for how we think and feel.
Dr. Lambert, who studies effort-based rewards, said that she is interested in “the connection between the effort we put into something and the reward we get from it” and that she believes working with our hands might be uniquely gratifying.
In some of her research on animals, Dr. Lambert and her colleagues found that rats that used their paws to dig up food had healthier stress hormone profiles and were better at problem solving compared with rats that were given food without having to dig.
She sees some similarities in studies on people, which have found that a whole range of hands-on activities — such as knitting, gardening and coloring — are associated with cognitive and emotional benefits, including improvements in memory and attention, as well as reductions in anxiety and depression symptoms.
These studies haven’t determined that hand involvement, specifically, deserves the credit. The researchers who looked at coloring, for example, speculated that it might promote mindfulness, which could be beneficial
for mental health. Those who have studied knitting said something similar. “The rhythm and repetition of knitting a familiar or established pattern was calming, like meditation,” said Catherine Backman, a professor emeritus of occupational therapy at the University of British Columbia in Canada who has examined the link between knitting and well-being.
Dr. Lambert has another hypothesis. “With depression, people experience something called learned helplessness, where they feel like it doesn’t matter what they do, nothing ever works,” she said. She believes that working with one’s hands is stimulating to the brain, and that it could even help counteract this learned helplessness.
Some researchers have zeroed in on the possible repercussions of replacing relatively complicated hand tasks with more basic ones.
In a small study of university students published in January, Norwegian researchers compared the neurological effects of writing by hand with typing on a keyboard. Handwriting was associated with “far more elaborate” brain activity than keyboard writing, the researchers found.
Dr. Van der Meer said that the act of forming a letter activates distinctive memories and brain pathways tied to what that letter represents (such as the sound it makes and the words that include it). “But when you type, every letter is produced by the same very simple finger movement, and as a result you use your whole brain much less than when writing by hand,” she added.
Dr. Van der Meer’s study is the latest in a series of research efforts in which she and her colleagues have found that writing and drawing seem to engage and exercise the brain more than typing on a keyboard. “The brain is like a muscle, and if we continue to take away these complex movements from our daily lives —
especially fine motor movements — I think that muscle will weaken.” she said. While more research is needed, Dr. Van der Meer posits that understimulation of the brain could ultimately lead to deficits in attention, memory formation and problem solving.
But as with knitting and coloring, some experts question the underlying mechanisms at play.
“With some of this research, I think it’s hard to dissociate whether it’s the physical movement of the hands that’s producing a benefit, or whether it’s the concentration or novelty or cognitive challenge involved,” said Rusty Gage, a professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies in San Diego.
Dr. Gage studies how certain activities can stimulate the growth of new cells in the brain. “I think if you’re doing complex work that involves making decisions and planning, that may matter more than whether you’re using your hands,” he said.
That said, the benefits of many hands-on activities aren’t in doubt. Along with gardening and handicrafts, research has found that pursuits like making art and playing a musical instrument also seem to do us some good.
The Pantone Color of the Year program engages the design community and colour enthusiasts in a conversation around colour, highlighting the relationship between colour and culture. Pantone selects a colour each year that captures the global zeitgeist—the Color of the Year expresses a global mood and an attitude, reflecting collective desire in the form of a single, distinct hue.
“For Pantone Color of the Year 2025, we look to a mellow brown hue whose inherent richness and sensorial and comforting warmth extends further into our desire for comfort, and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.” Laurie Pressman- Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute.
Where and When to go Stargazing A Practical Guide to Stargazing
By Sky Photo
The ideal stargazing locations are far from city lights, with unobstructed views of the horizon. Mountains, moorlands, deserts and remote islands are good choices, thanks to their isolation, clear conditions and lack of light pollution. Winter is the best time of year because there are longer hours of darkness, and the air tends to be clearer (astronomers call this ‘good seeing’).
A good resource for choosing a destination is DarkSky International’s certified list of Dark Sky Places, which are recognized for their protection of the natural night-time environment and starry sky, while its DarkSky Approved Lodging lists stargazer-friendly accommodation.
It’s also helpful to consult a light pollution map like Lightpollutionmap.info, which uses satellite data of artificial light at night to show the darkest areas.
You may also want to time your trip around celestial events, such as eclipses or annual meteor showers like the Perseids in August when there are stunning displays of shooting stars. Be mindful of the moon phase — if you want to see our galaxy, the Milky Way, schedule your trip during the dark new moon phase. It can be spectacular viewing lunar
craters and dark basins through a telescope when there’s a full moon.
What to bring on a stargazing trip
Night-time temperatures can drop significantly, especially in desert or mountain locations. Dress in layers and bring a good pair of finger-flap gloves and a hat, even in warmer climates.
Though your eyes are all you really need, binoculars on a tripod can be surprisingly effective and cost-friendly for observing nearby objects like our moon and the rings of Saturn. There are a range of augmented-reality apps, like SkyView or Stellarium, to help you identify stars, planets and constellations by pointing your phone at the sky.
Nine of the best dark sky destinations:
1. North York Moors, England
2. County Mayo, Ireland
3. Canary Islands, Spain
4. Jasper National Park, Canada
5. Colorado, US
6. New Zealand
7. Atacama Desert, Chile
8. Desengano Dark Sky Park, Brazil
9. Ladakh, India
Act Now to Reduce Your 2024 Taxes TAX CORNER
By Ken Weinstock CPA, Leisure World resident.
Happy New Year! I’d like to start the year with some helpful “Tax Tips” from the IRS. The following information comes directly from the IRS web site www.IRS.gov .
How To Avoid Being Scammed by Someone Posing as the IRS
Knowledge is a taxpayer’s first line of defense against scammers who pretend to be from the IRS with the goal of stealing personal information. Here are some facts about how the IRS communicates with taxpayers:
The IRS doesn’t normally initiate contact with taxpayers by phone or email. Do not reply to an email from someone who claims to be from the IRS because the IRS email address could be spoofed or fake.
The IRS does not send text messages or contact people through social media.
When the IRS needs to contact a taxpayer, the first contact is normally by letter delivered by the U.S. Postal Service.
How To Avoid Tax-Related Identity Theft
Stay safe online. Watch out for identity thieves who try to steal personal financial information which also could be used to potentially file fraudulent tax returns. Take extra care while shopping online or viewing emails and texts.
Watch out for fake charities. Taxpayers should be on alert for scammers using fake charities to commit fraud. Scammers often take advantage of people’s generosity by setting up fake charities to trick unsuspecting donors into giving away not only
money, but also their sensitive personal information. Being alert to potential scams will not only shield a taxpayer’s money but also help protect personal and financial data that scammers can use in tax-related identity theft.
Choosing a unique Identity Protection PIN provides extra safety for taxpayers. The IRS reminds taxpayers they can get extra protection by joining the agency’s Identity Protection Personal Identification Number or IP PIN program. Anyone who has a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification number and can verify their identity is eligible to enroll in the IP PIN program. The fastest and easiest way for taxpayers to receive an IP PIN is by using the “Get an IP PIN” tool on the IRS web site.
IRS.gov Tools to Help Take the Stress out of Filing Season:
Let Us Help You page. This page has links to information and resources on a wide range of topics for both individual taxpayers and businesses.
Online Account. An IRS Online Account lets taxpayers securely access their personal tax information, including tax return transcripts, payment history, certain notices, prior year adjusted gross income (AGI) and power of attorney information. They can also log in to verify if their name and address is correct. Taxpayers should notify the IRS if their address has changed. It’s also important taxpayers notify the Social Security Administration of a legal name change to avoid a delay in processing their tax return.
IRS Free File. Most taxpayers can file their tax return electronically for free using IRS Free File at IRS.gov/ freefile. This program is available only through IRS. gov and offers brand-name tax preparation software packages at no cost. The software does all the work of
finding deductions, credits and exemptions for filers. It’s free for those who qualify. Some IRS Free File packages also offer free state tax return preparation. Those who are comfortable preparing their own taxes can use Free File Fillable Forms, regardless of their income, to file their tax return.
Find a tax professional. The Choosing a Tax Professional page on IRS.gov has a wealth of information to help filers find professional tax help. The Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications can help taxpayers find preparers in their area who hold professional credentials recognized by the IRS.
Interactive Tax Assistant. The Interactive Tax Assistant tool answers many tax questions. It can determine if a type of income is taxable or if a taxpayer is eligible to claim certain credits or deductions. It also answers general questions, such as determining whether a taxpayer needs to file, what their filing status is, or if they’re eligible to claim a dependent.
Where’s My Refund? Taxpayers can use this tool to check the status of their refund. Current year refund information is usually available online within 24 hours after the IRS receives an e-filed tax return. Status on a paper return can take up to four weeks to appear. The tool updates once every 24 hours, usually overnight, so taxpayers need to check only once a day.
Free Tax Assistance. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance and Tax Counseling for the Elderly programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.
There’s a lot of really helpful information on the IRS web site. I highly recommend you check it out if you haven’t done so already.
What to Do When You Are Named the Executor
By: Rilus M. Dana
Being named the executor of an estate is a significant responsibility, but what does it actually entail?
In legal terms, the executor— or “personal representative” in Arizona—is the individual entrusted with carrying out the wishes outlined in a will or trust after someone passes away. Understanding this role begins with reviewing the legal documents that outline your responsibilities.
Acting as an executor requires careful attention to detail and adherence to what’s known as fiduciary duty—a legal obligation to act in the best interest of the estate and its beneficiaries. Mismanaging assets can have serious consequences, so it’s crucial to know your role and seek guidance when needed.
Responsibilities of the Executor of a Will
When a person passes away, their last will and testament directs how their remaining assets are managed. In Arizona, the personal representative is responsible for locating and managing estate assets, such as bank accounts, real estate, and retirement funds. They must also settle valid debts.
The personal representative is appointed by the probate court and issued “Letters of Personal Representative,” which authorize them to act on behalf of the estate. If you are named in this role, consulting an attorney can help you understand your fiduciary duty to act in the estate’s best interest.
What if There is No Will?
When someone dies without a valid will, they are considered “intestate.” In these cases, Arizona law determines how property is divided, often between the surviving spouse and family members. If no relatives are eligible, the state claims the estate. For intestate estates, beneficiaries may nominate a personal representative. If there’s disagreement, the probate court will appoint one.
Is There a Way to Avoid Probate?
Probate can be time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining, especially when beneficiaries have conflicting opinions. Fortunately, steps like creating a trust can help bypass this process.
Who is the Executor of a Trust?
Creating and transferring assets into a trust during your lifetime prevents the hassle and expense of probate. A trust is a legal document that details your wishes about the property held in the trust and how to distribute it to your beneficiaries. Trusts are private contracts that transfer and retitle the ownership of property so that probate is unnecessary after death.
A trust is a legal contract made by a person called the trustor. The person or company managing the assets in the trust is called the trustee, and the person entitled to receive the assets is called the beneficiary. Usually, a person or married couple will serve in all three roles in their trust. They will make a trust (trustor) and manage it (trustee) for their own benefit (beneficiary). The trust will name the successor trustee and successor beneficiaries.
If you are named as the successor trustee, you have no duty to act until the current trustor resigns, lacks the competency to serve, or passes away. If the trustor is still alive, then the trustee will manage the trust for their benefit. After they pass away, it is the trustee’s job to distribute the trust assets to beneficiaries according
to the terms of the trust. Also, a trustee is entitled to “reasonable compensation” for their services. Most trust companies charge between 2% and 3% for their trustee fees.
If you violate the trustee duties, you may be personally liable to the beneficiaries of the trust. An attorney can help you understand your role as the trustee and your duties to administer the trust, as well as help you determine “reasonable compensation” for your services.
Take Action to Simplify the Process
Whether you’ve been named an executor or trustee or are navigating an estate without a will, understanding your role is crucial to avoiding legal and financial missteps. At Rilus Law, we offer a Family Administration Session to guide you through the process after the loss of a loved one. Additionally, for those who are confident in their successor trustee role, we offer a free Trustee Toolkit, which is available for download on our website and has many supportive resources. At the end of the day, we’re here for you and happy to help.
- Rilus M. Dana, J.D. is the Managing Partner at Rilus Law, formerly Dana and Associates.
YOUR POCKETBOOK
What Does The Future Of Social Security Mean For Your Retirement?
By Steven M. Rabin
Social Security remains a critical component of most American’s retirement plans and questions persist around its long-term solvency. While the number of Social Security beneficiaries is expected to continuously grow over the next decade, payments into the program via payroll taxes are likely to slow. This dynamic is creating anxiety for many about whether they can rely on Social Security to help fund their retirement. It can be beneficial to explore the role that Social Security may have in your retirement and how to best prepare if there are meaningful changes to the program.
The future of Social Security. If you have been following financial news, you may have heard industry pundits commenting on the solvency of Social Security and its ability to pay full benefits over time. Indeed, Social Security is currently paying out more than it is taking in, which many view as problematic. In May of this year, the Social Security and Medicare Trustees released their annual report, which predicts that by 2033 assets of the program will be depleted. It is expected that in 2033, the Social Security’s Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI) fund will only take in 79% of tax revenue needed for benefit payments. As a result, payments under the program could be reduced by 21%1. It’s widely expected that Congress may act to shore up the program before this happens, however there are no guarantees. Planning ahead can help shield your retirement income, should Social Security be unable to fully meet its obligations.
Determine the role Social Security has in your retirement plan. It is important to understand where Social Security fits into your retirement plan. For many retirees, Social Security benefits provide key supplemental income because the program alone will not provide
enough income to cover all essential and desired lifestyle expenses. Additionally, each individual’s benefits will vary depending on their lifetime earnings and the age at which they begin taking distributions. If future payments are adjusted lower to make up for the deficit of flows coming into the fund when you retire, it may be wise to plan on utilizing other means for retirement income. Take some time to determine your desired lifestyle during retirement and the associated costs, so you can craft a Social Security plan that aligns with your retirement goals.
Work with a financial advisor to adapt your retirement plan. A financial advisor can help determine the optimal payment plan for Social Security in your retirement. The age at which you begin taking distributions and where these distributions fit into the whole of your retirement plan is unique to you. An advisor can assist you in evaluating the variables that may impact the time at which you begin collecting benefits such as your health and life expectancy. With careful financial planning you can consider a variety of income producing investments that may contribute to your retirement security.
How Social Security programs morph and change in future is largely outside of your control, so plan for what you can. It is never too soon to work with a financial advisor to plot various scenarios for retirement based on factors that are unique to you. Ultimately, knowing you’re prepared can help you feel more confident about retirement.
Steven M. Rabin, CFP, CRPC, APMA, CDFA, ChFC, is Managing Director of Academy Advisors Wealth
Academy Advisors Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Gilbert, AZ. We specialize in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and have been in practice for a combined 42 years. Contact us at, www. academyadvisors.com, 480-545-8390, 161 E Rivulon Blvd. Ste. 108 Gilbert, AZ 85297 or 16220 N Scottsdale Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85254.
Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.
Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.
1- Ameriprise Financial: “Did You Know...” May 8, 2024. Compiled by Russell T. Price, Chief Economist
Management
+ Zero Interest if paid in full within 12 or 6 months
On purchases of $1,200+ for 12 months or $199 - $1,199 for 6 months at participating locations with the Big O Tires® and Service Credit Card. Interest will be charged to your Account from the purchase date if the promotional plan balance is not paid in full within the promotional period. Promotional Plan Fee may apply.*
RECREATION, FITNESS AND GOLF
2025 LW EXPO & HOME SHOW
REC. CENTER 1 COMPLEX
One of the most highly anticipated events of the year. You are invited to come and enjoy the day experiencing a myriad of commercial exhibitors and vendors, enjoy free presentations, have chances to win great raffle prizes & cash drawings. Look for more details in the paper, Recreation Newsletters, Leisure World Facebook page, and on the community website. 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
RECREATION: January Special Events
LW Foundation Lecture Series – January 29
“So, You Lived at the Grand Canyon?” The wonders and tradeoffs of living on the edge of paradise.
Join longtime Grand Canyon resident, educator, photographer, and author Mike Buchheit as he shares an intimate familiarity with the world’s most-famous chasm. Through personal accounts and a selection of his favorite images, Mike will connect or reconnect audience members with the amazing landscape. The Grand Canyon’s history, biotic communities, geology, life-sustaining waterways, pioneer and tribal histories. Mike will include the many ways to enjoy the park from rim to river.
Mike’s work was juried into the prestigious exhibit Lasting Light: 125 Years of Grand Canyon Photography, which toured the country as part of the Smithsonian
Institute’s Traveling Exhibition Series. Arizona fine art galleries have showcased his work, particularly Tanglewood Fine Arts in Flagstaff and Tilt Galleries in Scottsdale.
Raised beside the Mississippi River in his native Iowa, Mike relocated to Scottsdale in the late 80s. His passion for the Grand Canyon backcountry was forged as a counterbalance to the hectic pace of corporate life in the Valley of the Sun.
Mike relocated to Grand Canyon National Park in 1994 where he is now director of the Grand Canyon Field Institute, a leading outdoor education program, where he also teaches landscape photography. He was a full-time resident, two-thousandmile backpacker and frequent river runner.
Though his interests are many, it is in his capacity as a photographer that Mike has found the greatest artistic freedom in conveying his connection to the Grand Canyon.
“Living at the Grand Canyon is like living in a postcard, “Mike said, “It defies description in a way, but it was always inspirational.”
He will be sharing his love of the Grand Canyon in his slide show presentation. So, step inside the Grand Canyon with Mike!
The Photography Club will display related images as part of this presentation. So, come at 5:30 to see their creative work.
This FREE presentation is made possible with the cooperation of the Rec Department and Desert Financial: Wills and Trust Division AND your Leisure World Foundation.
Date: Wed., Jan. 29
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Room
Elvis Presley’s Birthday Party – Dean Z
Toby Keith Tribute – Hollywood Yates
Dean Z has dedicated his entire life to honoring the legacy of Elvis Presley. Z set off for Las Vegas at age 17, where he soon earned a spot with Legends in Concert. In 2013 Dean won the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, the only world-wide contest recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises, serving as an ambassador to Graceland and the estate and tens of thousands of new fans. Dean Z received the Heart of The King Award at the former Las Vegas Hilton, on the same stage, Elvis himself performed over 700 shows. He also had the pleasure of being a part of the national touring production Elvis Lives, a live musical highlighting Elvis’ career.
In 2017 Dean joined “The Elvis Tribute Artist World Tour” based in the United Kingdom. To date, the tour has performed several sold-out shows across England and Scotland, including performances in the country’s most historic theaters like the Apollo, and major arenas like Manchester Arena and The Echo in Liverpool. “I feel so honored to sing this great music. Making people happy when I’m on stage is so fulfilling, all because of Elvis. He stands the test of time, and as long as the world wants to hear his music, I’ll be ready to sing it.”
Date: Mon., Jan. 13
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima
Cost: $24-26 depending on seating | LIMITED SEATING AVAILABLE!
As we honor the passing of the great country singer Toby Keith, we look forward to getting as close to the real deal as we can get with Hollywood Yates. 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 resonates deep within your soul.
Date: Mon., Jan. 27
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima
Cost: $24-26 depending on seating
Winter Wonder by Mike Bucheit
RECREATION: February Special Events
Comedy Night
Comedy and Ventriloquist Duo
Adam Grabowski and Chuck Field
Enjoy a night full of comedy as we invite two wonderful comedians to Leisure World. We will have Stand-Up Comedian, Adam Grabowski who has been featured on America’s Got Talent, ABC, NBC, and WGN, and headlined in all 50 states. We will enjoy Adam’s clean comedy to be followed by ventriloquist, Chuck Field. Fresh popcorn and refreshments will be provided. Open seating.
Date: Wed., Feb. 5
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima
Cost: $15 per person
Not-So Newlywed Game
Back by popular demand! Do you think you know everything about your life-partner (or your closest friend) after all these years? Put your marriage and/or friendship to the test with Leisure World’s Not-so Newlywed Game! Everyone can play with their spouse or partner of choice. Just refresh your memories to hone your recall on things like “Where did you first meet?”, “How long have you been together or if friends, known each other?”, “Who is more high maintenance?”, and “Are they morning or night people?”
With 2 rounds of fun and a whole lot of laughs, see if you and your spouse/friend can outscore the rest of the couples/pairs to win a special prize. Sign up fast, only 8 partners can participate.
Ticket includes your mixology stations of refreshments and snacks.
Date: Thurs., Feb. 6
Time: 6:00 pm
Place: Rec. 2 HOPI/PIMA
Cost: Contestants: Free!
Spectators: $2
Deadline for contestants: Tues., Feb. 4
Leisure World’s 2nd A ual
CAR SHOW
Join us in Recreation 1 Parking Lot for a morning full of classic and exotic cars for the viewing of Leisure World Residents and the public! Thanks to Doug McMurray, one of Leisure World’s very own, we will be having over 90 classic and exotic cars on display alongside food trucks, DJ, 50/50 Raffle, as well as over $1500 in raffle prizes.
Date: Sat., Feb. 1
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE for attendees
Place: Rec. 1 Parking Lot
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.
L.W. Bingo is for Residents and their guests 18 years of age and older. Our bingo games are for recreational play and are not open to the public. The state does not allow alcohol to be present or consumed during our recreational Bingo games.
Date: Fridays
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., Jan. 3 & Feb. 7
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! Trivia will be hosted by our very own, Scott Immel! Three rounds of 15 questions will challenge you and others to see who will top the charts. Test your knowledge with a group of eight or on your own.
Date: Wed., Jan. 8 & 22 | Feb. 12 & 26
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 HOPI/PIMA Cost: $2 per person
Date: Fri., Jan. 10 and Feb. 14
Time: 9:00 a.m. Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
What If You Could Prevent Knee Surgery?
Do you suffer from knee pain? Sti ness? Been told your knee is “bone-on-bone” ?
Are you unable to do things that used to be simple? Are you tired of medications, shots and other methods that just don’t work?
CHRO NI C KNEE PAIN BREAK TH ROUGH !
Many times, the ROOT CAUSE of your knee problems are never addressed. This it likely the reason why other approaches have not worked.
YOU NO LONGER HAVE TO SUFFER WITH:
•Trouble with stairs!
•Painful walking!
•Poor sleep due to knee pain!
•Stiffness!!
•Afraid of knee giving out!
We havehelped HUNDREDS avoid knee surgery or replacement surgery with our specialized equipment. You will know INSTANTLY if we can help you!
SPECIAL OFFER!
For the month of January, we are running a special where you can get a consultation, exam and x-rays (if needed) for only $49. ($349 value!)
If we feel you are a good candidate, we will also include a FREE TREATMENT.
Please don’t wait, your quality of life depends on you getting this exam TODAY!
CLUB EVENTS
Club Events: Purchase tickets through the Recreation Office!
Purchase tickets through the Recreation Office.
Leisure World Dinner Club
The Leisure World Dinner Club will have three dinner/shows for the 2025 season in Rec 2 Hopi/Pima rooms. For all dinner shows, doors will open at 5:30 with dinner served at 6:00 and the show at 7:00.
1. First dinner/show on Thursday January 9, 2025, will be featuring steel drum percussionist Paul McDermand.
2. Second dinner/show on Monday February 17, 2025, will be featuring pianist extraordinaire, and well-known, to Leisure World, Brady Goss.
3. Third dinner/show on Thursday March 3, 2025, will feature Crystal Stark with her infectious energy, beautiful smile and out-of-this-world voice.
To make an appointment text Laurie Quartermain at: 602-739-1190 to or email at laurie@valleygoldmine.com
Scheduled appointments only. Must present a valid driver’s license or state ID to sell.
Valley Goldmine will donate 10% of the total bought that day to the Leisure World Foundation that serves this community and to charities surrounding it.
So, check around for those long-forgotten items and make some cash!
Paul McDermand
Grab your friends and neighbors and let’s keep the good times going! Join host Steve and Cathy Evangelesta as they provide great music and fun surprises. Bring potluck items of your choice to share. Enjoy listening to music and dance the night away with DJ Steve.
COMMUNITY DANCE PARTIES
Join in the fun, socialize, and dance! Come listen to great music, friendly conversation, and have a groovin’ time! All dances include your mixology stations of soda, water, ice, and cups, all you need to bring is the B in
Fresh popped popcorn will also be provided for $1 by REMAX.
Hawaiian Theme
Tropical Nights
Rhythm Edition
Let’s pretend we are on a beach in Hawaii as we dress tropical and shake our hips like some hula girls. Rhythm Edition, a Leisure World favorite is back at Leisure World to give you all a wonderful night of dancing and fun. Wear your best vacation wear and leis, and we will party all night long!
Date: Thurs., Jan. 16
Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $8 in advance or $10 at the event
Solos and Sweethearts Dance
Johnny K & Kompany
Calling all solos and sweethearts to kick off the day of love with some fun! Johnny K & Kompany is back to help Leisure World get down and reminisce on the good old days. Enjoy the night with some of your favorite oldies like Stand by Me, Proud Mary, and other favorites from the 50’s through 70’s. Wear your best pink or red to celebrate love day with your friends and loved ones.
Date: Thurs., Feb. 13
Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $8 in advance or $10 at the event
70s Theme
Bell Bottom Ball
Thaddeus Rose
A highly anticipated, new band Thaddeus Rose will be making their debut to Leisure World. Many residents have raved about Thaddeus Rose, and we thank them for bringing them to Leisure World so that you are able to enjoy a new, popular band that is famous at surrounding casinos and communities. They are a Variety Band offering the best dance rock hits of all times. Their remakes of iconic cover tunes are flawless and originate from some of the greatest musicians of our time. Show up in your funkiest outfit, as we ‘do the hustle’ all night long.
Date: Thurs., Jan. 30
Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $8 in advance or $10 at the event
80s Theme
Totally Tubular Dance New Band! Illumin80s
We are excited to welcome a new band to Leisure World, who is known for throwing a good party! They are an 80’s rock and variety party band, that is ready to make our night “totally tubular”. Wear your biggest hair, brightest neon, and all things 80’s for those who want to celebrate this era!
Date: Thurs., Feb. 27
Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $8 in advance or $10 at the event
January 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.
January 5 Unsung Hero
When David Smallbone’s music company collapses, he moves his family from Australia to the United States to search for a brighter future. Struggling to make ends meet, the couple soon realize the talents of their children, who go on to become two of the most successful acts in contemporary Christian music.
January 12 Still Alice
Dr. Alice Howland (Julianne Moore) is a renowned linguistics professor at Columbia University. When words begin to escape her and she starts becoming lost on her daily jogs, Alice must come face-to-face with a devastating diagnosis: early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. As the once-vibrant woman struggles to hang on to her sense of self for as long as possible, Alice’s three grown children must watch helplessly as their mother disappears more and more with each passing day.
January 19 Race
Young Jesse Owens (Stephan James) becomes a track and field sensation while attending the Ohio State University in the early 1930s. With guidance from coach Larry Snyder (Jason Sudeikis), Owens gains national recognition for breaking numerous records. After heated debates, the United States decides not to boycott the Olympics in Nazi Germany. Overcoming racism at home and abroad, Owens seizes the opportunity to show Berlin and the the world that he’s the fastest man alive.
January 26 It Ends With Us
Lily Bloom moves to Boston to chase her lifelong dream of opening her own business. A chance meeting with charming neurosurgeon Ryle Kincaid soon sparks an intense connection, but as the two fall deeply in love, she begins to see sides of Ryle that remind her of her parents’ relationship. When Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan suddenly reenters her life, her relationship with Ryle gets upended, leaving her with an impossible choice.
Classics of the Silver Screen Movie Night: “Sunset Boulevard” (1950) Gloria Swanson
An aging silent film queen refuses to accept that her stardom has ended. She hires a young screenwriter to help set up her movie comeback. The screenwriter believes he can manipulate her, but he soon finds out he is wrong. The screenwriters ambivalence about their relationship and her unwillingness to let go leads to a situation of violence, madness, and death.
Date: Tues., Jan. 21
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Theater
Some Like It Hot
Wicked
Winner of 4 Tony Awards®, including Best Choreography and Best Costumes, and the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album, SOME LIKE IT HOT is “A Super-Sized, All-Out Song-And-Dance Spectacular!” - The New York Time Set in Chicago when Prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement, SOME LIKE IT HOT is the “glorious, big, high-kicking” (Associated Press) story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. And what a trip it is! With its irresistible combination of heart and laughs, song and dance, SOME LIKE IT HOT won more theater awards than any show this season, and was named Best Musical by the Drama Desk, The Drama League, and the Outer Critics Circle. No wonder Deadline calls it “a tap-dancing, razzle-dazzling embrace of everything you love about musical theater.”
Date: Wed., Feb. 12, 2025
Price: $125 per person
Deadline: Mon., Jan. 13
WICKED, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz…but from a different angle. Long before Dorothy arrives, there is another young woman, born with emeraldgreen skin—smart, fiery, misunderstood, and possessing an extraordinary talent. When she meets a bubbly blonde who is exceptionally popular, their initial rivalry turns into the unlikeliest of friendships…until the world decides to call one “good,” and the other one “wicked.” From the first electrifying note to the final breathtaking moment, WICKED—the untold true story of the Witches of Oz— transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story. “If every musical had the brains, heart and courage of WICKED, Broadway really would be a magical place” (Time Magazine).
Date: Tues., March 11, 2025
Price: $145 per person
Deadline: Mon., Feb. 3
A mother. A daughter. 3 possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago. For nearly 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story, and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show.
Date: Tues., May 27, 2025
Price: $130 per person
Deadline: Mon., April 28
Mamma Mia!
2025 Hale Theatre Season
For 20 years, Hale Centre Theatre has been bringing exciting, family-friendly Broadway Musicals, Dramas, and Comedies to downtown Gilbert audiences. With discounted tickets seated on the north side of the stage, you’ll be sure to have a great night, in the round, filled with laughs, music, and high-quality stage productions. Join your friends, neighbors, and family on a local, economical excursion once a month to enjoy theatre right down the road. Drive yourself or carpool with friends as we follow along as a group to Hale Theatre!
*Please note that deadlines for shows listed below are 2 weeks before the show, please get your tickets accordingly.
On Sale Now at the Recreation Office and Online!
Cash On Delivery
Prepare for a hilariously chaotic ride with Cash on Delivery, a riotous comedy set in London, England guaranteed to have audiences in stitches from start to finish. Follow the misadventures of Eric Swan, a hapless protagonist whose scheme to claim fraudulent benefits spirals out of control in the most absurd ways imaginable. Packed with mistaken identities, outrageous disguises, and side-splitting situations, this uproarious comedy farce is a rollercoaster of laughter that will leave you doubled over with laughter.
Date: Thurs., Jan. 9
Price: $45
Deadline: Thurs., Dec. 26
The Marvelous Wonderettes
Step back in time to the 1950s and 1960s with The Marvelous Wonderettes, a delightful musical featuring the talented vocal harmonies of four high school friends. Follow Cindy Lou, Missy, Betty Jean, and Suzy as they navigate love, friendship, and rivalries while performing beloved hits from the era. Filled with nostalgia, laughter, and toe-tapping tunes, this charming production is a joyful celebration of friendship and the power of music.
Date: Tues., Feb. 4
Price: $45
Deadline: Tues., Jan. 21
Anything Goes
Set sail on a hilarious and romantic adventure aboard the S.S. American with Anything Goes, the classic musical filled with mistaken identities, madcap antics, and toe-tapping tunes by Cole Porter. Join a colorful cast of characters as they navigate love, laughter, and intrigue on the high seas. Packed with unforgettable songs like “I Get a Kick Out of You” and “You’re the Top,” this timeless production promises an evening of pure entertainment and Broadway magic.
Date: Wed., March. 5
Price: $45
Deadline: Mon., Dec. 23
Camelot
Experience the timeless tale of Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot in a captivating production featuring a small cast of eight talented performers. Follow King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, and Lancelot as they navigate love, honor, and betrayal in the legendary kingdom. With its iconic score and enchanting story, Camelot explores themes of leadership and sacrifice against the backdrop of Arthurian legend.
Date: Wed., April 9
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., March 26
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Enter the world of swashbuckling adventure and romance with The Scarlet Pimpernel, a captivating musical set during the French Revolution. Follow the daring exploits of Sir Percy Blakeney as he disguises himself to rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine. Filled with stirring melodies, thrilling action, and a tale of love and loyalty, this timeless production promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of heroism and sacrifice.
Date: Wed., May 21
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., May 7
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Step into a world of pure imagination with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the beloved musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic tale. Join young Charlie Bucket as he embarks on a magical journey through Willy Wonka’s whimsical chocolate factory. Filled with enchanting music, fantastical sets, and larger-than-life characters, this delightful production promises a sweet treat for the whole family, sparking wonder and joy at every turn.
Date: Wed., July 9
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., June 25
Jan. 13
Elvis Presley’s Birthday Party
Dean Z
Dean Z has dedicated his entire life to honoring the legacy of Elvis Presley. Z set off for Las Vegas at age 17, where he soon earned a spot with Legends in Concert. In 2013 Dean won the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, the only world-wide contest recognized by Elvis Presley Enterprises, serving as an ambassador to Graceland and the estate and tens of thousands of new fans. Dean Z received the Heart of The King Award at the former Las Vegas Hilton, on the same stage, Elvis himself performed over 700 shows. He also had the pleasure of being a part of the national touring production Elvis Lives, a live musical highlighting Elvis’ career. In 2017 Dean joined “The Elvis Tribute Artist World Tour” based in the United Kingdom. To date, the tour has performed several sold-out shows across England and Scotland, including performances in the country’s most historic theaters like the Apollo, and major arenas like Manchester Arena and The Echo in Liverpool.
“I feel so honored to sing this great music. Making people happy when I’m on stage is so fulfilling, all because of Elvis. He stands the test of time, and as long as the world wants to hear his music, I’ll be ready to sing it.”
Jan.
27
Toby Keith Tribute
Hollywood Yates
As we honor the passing of the great country singer Toby Keith, we look forward to getting as close to the real deal as we can get with Hollywood Yates. 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 resonates deep within your soul.
Feb. 10
December 63’
Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Tribute
The music of FRANKIE VALLI AND THE FOUR SEASONS comes to life in this
one-of-a-kind concert experience. DECEMBER’63 showcases all your favorite songs from Frankie Valli including the classics that have been thrilling audiences for decade. This recreation of a Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons concert will have you reaching for the high notes as our cast and band take you on musical journey with stops at every phase of the careers of Frankie and the boys!
Feb. 24
Chicago Experience
Chicago Tribute
You know them, you love them, and you’ve probably lived there: Chicago! 23 gold albums. 5 number one albums. 21 top-ten singles. 100+ million albums sold. Celebrate the music and majesty of the original “rock and roll band with horns”. Two vocalists blend seamlessly with amazing horn and rhythm sections to recreate the signature sound of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members. Khris Dodge Entertainment’s The Chicago Experience features “Saturday in the Park,” “If You Leave Me Now,” “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is,” and many, many more – it’ll be an evening of the greatest hits from the greatest band of all time.
March
10
The K-Tel All-Stars
The Totally 70’s Show
Step back in time to the ultimate era of music, the 1970s, with this electrifying and immersive production that will have you reliving the magic of one of the greatest decades in musical history. The K-Tel All Stars are here to transport you to the past with their incredible multi-media production, featuring vintage video
clips and a dynamic stage show that captures the essence of the 70s like never before. From disco beats to classic rock anthems, their setlist is a nostalgic journey through the numberone hits, one-hit wonders, and other unforgettable gems that defined the era.
March 24 Gen Maldonado Powerhouse Vocalist
The spotlight shines on Gen Maldonado as she commands the stage with her energetic and victorious performances. The New York soul singer leaves her audience overjoyed and full of life. Her vocal ability and drive, captivates audiences worldwide. She has performed in musical production shows and concerts all over New York City. She has also recorded original music and has been featured on several television and radio stations. She was chosen to perform at the World Famous APOLLO Theater in New York City and her vocal ability landed her a spot in the finals. You do not want to miss this, her voice will give you chills and bring tears to your eyes.
4:30 p.m. Band with No Name (PROM) 5:30 p.m. Community Happy Hour (CLR) 7:00 p.m. Bingo (BR)
a.m.
(CLR)
p.m. Democratic Club (CLR)
6:00 p.m. Trivia Night (HPG)
(T)
10:00 a.m. District 8 (HOPI)
4:30 p.m. District 5 (BR) 7:00 p.m. PAS – Elvis (HPG)
p.m. LW Dinner Club (HPG) Follow-Along Trip: Hale Theatre Cash On Delivery
a.m. LW Monthly Market (BR) 4:30 p.m. Band with No Name (PROM) 7:00 p.m. Bingo (BR)
8:30 a.m. District 7 (BR) 9:00 a.m. Veterans Affinity (QCR) 1:00 p.m. Long Range Planning (BR) 4:30 p.m. District 4 (QCR)
5:00 p.m. SOLO (CLR)
7:00 p.m. Dance Party –Rhythm Edition (HPG)
4:30 p.m. Band with No Name (PROM) 7:00 p.m. Bingo (BR)
5:30 p.m. Casual Aires (HPG)
Dance Party –Thaddeus Rose (HPG) Kindred Tours: Trip The Sandhill Cranes of Whitewater Draw featuring the Historic Gadsden Hotel
Trips and Tours
If you like one-day excursions or are looking to find your next big travel destination, look below to see what might fit your interests.
To reserve your spot, visit the community website, the Recreation Office or call 480-832-0000 ext. 209 to purchase your tickets.
KEY CODES: Kindred Tours (KT) ¤ Leisure World
Featured Trip
Love to Explore? Join Leisure World’s Trips and Tours Email Blast! Be the first to know about Leisure World’s travel opportunities, with one email update every 1-2 weeks. Email Molly at mshort@lwca.com to join!
Leisure World’s 5th Annual Cruise 10-Night Ultimate Southern Caribbean on the Celebrity Ascent | Sailing Jan. 2-Jan. 12, 2026
Your Leisure World Cruise is back!!! Join your Leisure World neighbors and friends for fun and high seas luxury on Celebrity Cruise’s new Celebrity Ascent. Experience the beautiful ports of the Southern Caribbean as we travel to Tortola, St. Johns, Barbados, St. Lucia, and St. Kitts & Nevis. Discover culture around every corner: Museums – Caribbean Shopping – Snorkeling – Crystal Blue Beaches –History – Delicious Caribbean Cuisine, with pleasant weather year-round. Departure
will be from Fort Lauderdale and there will be 4 relaxing days at sea on this voyage.
Price includes a Mid-Ship (Infinite Veranda) Stateroom with a balcony, round-trip flights from Sky Harbor to Fort Lauderdale, 1 pre-night hotel stay in Fort Lauderdale, classic beverage package, and basic wi-fi package, all port charges, government fees and taxes, pre-paid gratuities, cruise travel insurance, all meals and entertainment aboard ship, and round-trip motorcoach transportation from Leisure World and
FOLLOW-ALONG TRIPS:
back, and all round trip transports from airport to hotel to ship in Fort Lauderdale.
Act fast! Only 15 staterooms available. Register now in the Rec. Office or call 480-832-0000 ext. 209.
Room upgrades, Single, 3rd and 4th occupancy available upon request. Prices can be subject to change depending on fuel charges for flights and motorcoach rates.
Date: Jan. 2-Jan. 12, 2026
Cost: $4,530.00 per person (double occupancy)
Deposit: $450 per person, due at time of booking Deadline for Full Payment: Mon., Aug. 5, 2025
Discover all that the Valley has to offer! Join your friends, neighbors, and family on a local, economical excursion a few times each month! Drive yourself or carpool with friends as we follow along as a group to various locations around the Valley.
The Marvelous Wonderettes
Step back in time to the 1950s and 1960s with The Marvelous Wonderettes, a delightful musical featuring the talented vocal harmonies of four high school friends. Follow Cindy Lou, Missy, Betty Jean, and Suzy as they navigate love, friendship, and rivalries while performing beloved hits from the era. Filled with nostalgia, laughter, and toe-tapping tunes, this charming production is a joyful celebration of friendship and the power of music.
Date: Tues., Feb. 4
Price: $45
Deadline: Tues., Jan. 21
Anything Goes
Set sail on a hilarious and romantic adventure aboard the S.S. American with Anything Goes, the classic musical filled with mistaken identities, madcap antics, and toe-tapping tunes by Cole Porter. Join a colorful cast of characters as they navigate love, laughter, and intrigue on the high seas. Packed with unforgettable songs like “I Get a Kick Out of You” and “You’re the Top,” this timeless production promises an evening of pure entertainment and Broadway magic.
Date: Wed., March 5
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., Feb. 19
Camelot
Experience the timeless tale of Lerner & Loewe’s Camelot in a captivating production featuring a small cast of eight talented performers. Follow King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, and Lancelot as they navigate love, honor, and betrayal in the legendary kingdom. With its iconic score and enchanting story, Camelot explores themes of leadership and sacrifice against the backdrop of Arthurian legend.
Date: Wed., April 9
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., March 26
The Scarlet Pimpernel
Enter the world of swashbuckling adventure and romance with The Scarlet Pimpernel, a captivating musical set during the French Revolution. Follow the daring exploits of Sir Percy Blakeney as he disguises himself to rescue French aristocrats from the guillotine. Filled with stirring melodies, thrilling action, and a tale of love and loyalty, this timeless production promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of heroism and sacrifice.
Date: Wed., May 21
Price: $45
Deadline: Wed., May 7
JANUARY
Tortilla Flat & the Dolly Steamboat Cruise
Jan. 14th, Tuesday .$130
Nestled in the Tonto National Forest, in the Superstition Mountain Range, Tortilla Flat is an authentic old west town. Founded in 1904 as a stagecoach stop, this fantastic destination is just a hop-skipand-a-jump away, on the historic Apache Trail. We’ll arrive early to get seated on the BBQ Patio, where we’ll enjoy lunch on self, including burgers hot off the grill, Tortilla Flat’s famous chili and BBQ, of course. The entertainment on the BBQ Patio is legendary, as the Tortilla Flat Band takes the stage daily, providing old-time rock & roll, plus so much more. Midafternoon we’ll board the Dolly Steamboat enjoy the 1.5 hour Nature Cruise, offering dramatic views of Canyon Lake, known for beautiful shorelines along red rock cliffs and steep canyon walls. Guests on the Dolly may see Big Horn sheep and Bald Eagles, as well as other wildlife. This relaxing tour offers so much!
Suessical the Musical at Phoenix Theatre
January 23rd, Thursday .$151 Presented on the Main Stage, we’ve scored fantastic seats!
Enter the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss, where his genius leaps from the page into a visually spectacular reality. Set in the fanciful Jungle of Nool, you’ll embark on a musical adventure alongside the steadfast Horton the Elephant and an eccentric ensemble plucked from the iconic author and illustrator’s beloved tales. Let the infectious “Oh, The Thinks You Can Think!” and other melodies sweep you through surreal dreamscapes where the unimagined come to life. Narrated by the mischievous and charismatic Cat in the Hat himself, this Seussatrical celebration imparts wonderful lessons for all ages, young and sage, encouraging them to believe in themselves, allow their imagination to run wild and free, remain steadfastly true to their word, and celebrate the special qualities that make each individual unique. We’ll also enjoy lunch, on self, at the Miracle Mile Deli, prior to arriving at the theatre. A Phoenix landmark since 1949, the Miracle Mile serves the best deli sandwiches and homemade soups, along with great daily specials including a roast turkey plate, Hungarian stuffed cabbage rolls, meatloaf, mac & cheese, freshly baked pies, bread pudding, and so much more.
The 17th Annual Superior Historic Home Tour
January 26th, Sunday .$115 We’re heading southeast to Superior, Arizona, where the residents know the value of recycling, repurposing and renovating. In a town that nearly went ghost, we’ll visit several unique homes that were owned by the Magma Copper Mine until the 1970s. Along with the homes and buildings, we’ll also take some time to explore the Annual Antique Show at the Magma Club, circa 1915—a building that once hosted dinners, dances, and boxing matches for Magma Mine workers—where they will be offering live music and refreshments. We’ll enjoy lunch on self in downtown Superior, home to a handful of charming little restaurants and there is sure to be something for everyone.
The Sandhill Cranes of Whitewater Draw featuring the Historic Gadsden Hotel January 30th-31st, 2025
MOTORCOACH TRIPS:
$426 (Based Upon Double Occupancy) $65 (Single Supplement)
Day One: We’re traveling south to Tombstone—The Town Too Tough To Die—where we’ll find plenty of great little restaurants to choose from and enjoy lunch on self. Later, back in the Transits, we’ll head for Douglas, Arizona. Just a few miles north of the Mexican border, Douglas, a once remote ranching town is home to the infamous Gadsden Hotel. Built in 1902, then destroyed by fire, the Gadsden was rebuilt in 1929 in the Art Nouveau style—offering a magnificent Tiffany stained glass window overlooking the lobby, and a sweeping Italian marble staircase—up which Pancho Villa reportedly rode his horse. The hotel provided gracious hospitality to the growing business brought in by the mining industry and the settling of the Arizona Territory. The lobby of the Gadsden, “the living room,” hosted cattlemen, ranchers, copper mining executives and businessmen. For all of the Gadsden’s rich history, the hotel also had a dark side—catering to gamblers, and notable lawless characters of the American West. Famously haunted, guests and staff members have reported paranormal encounters on every floor, with the third floor seemingly the epicenter. The basement of the Gadsden is beyond fascinating—a 7,000 square foot labyrinth of twenty rooms—which secretly housed bootleg whiskey tunnels, brothels and a notorious speakeasy. We’ll check into our beautifully renovated rooms, and after a refresh we’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner, served buffet-style with a glass of beer or wine, and it’s all included. After dinner, we’ll explore the Gadsden, beginning on the third floor, winding our way down into the basement—with guides recounting the darker history that arose from the underbelly of the hotel. Afterwards you might want to call it an early night—we’ve got a big day tomorrow!
Day Two: We’ll be up before the crack of dawn to enjoy a continental breakfast, included, at the hotel. Back in the Transits, we’ll hit the road for Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, one of the best places to view sandhill cranes, with an estimated winter population of over 30,000. Located in the Sulphur Springs Valley—a Chihuahuan desert grassland habitat—Whitewater Draw is surrounded by Arizona’s magnificent sky islands. The sandhill cranes spend the night standing in the draw’s shallow waters to evade predators, and then fly out at sunrise, to feed and socialize in the surrounding area. With an impressive wingspan of 6 to 7 feet, the early morning mass ascension of the sandhill cranes is a sight to behold! There is no visitor’s center at the Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, but there are restrooms. In addition to sandhill cranes, the waters of the draw attract many kinds of ducks, geese, herons, egrets, shorebirds, gulls and terns, as well as various mammals. Don’t forget your camera! Formerly a cattle ranch, Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area was purchased in 1997 and is now managed to enhance wetland habitats and provide waterfowl habitat, and wildlife viewing. After this heart-stopping experience, we’ll travel to Bisbee, located 90 miles southeast of Tucson in the scenic Mule Mountains. Founded in 1880, Bisbee was one of the most cultured cities in the American West—the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco. Downtown Bisbee still retains much of its cosmopolitan charm, with its mining camp roots also fully on display in the rollicking Brewery Gulch district—once
home to 50 saloons and several brothels. We’ll visit the Queen Mine, don hard hats, miner’s headlamps and the always stylish yellow slicker, then head underground and back in time! Retired Phelps Dodge employees will narrate our journey 1,500 feet into the mine, recounting the dangers and dramas of mining days. Afterwards we’ll stroll the streets of Bisbee, now home to many interesting shops and galleries, and we’ll enjoy lunch on self with several fantastic restaurants to choose from. Midafternoon we’ll head for home—a relaxing journey through the rolling grasslands of Southern Arizona, with plenty of great stops along the way. This Kindred Tours Classic should not be missed!
FEBRUARY
The 66th Annual Tubac Festival of the Arts
Fri., February 7th, $115 Nestled at the base of the Santa Rita Mountains, on the Santa Cruz River, Tubac has enjoyed a rich history of festivals dating back to 1959. The February Tubac Fine Arts Festival, with its 66year tradition, is the longest running art festival in Southern Arizona, drawing more than 200 artists and thousands of visitors from all over the world. The artist’s tents compliment the 100 shops, fine art galleries and working artist’s studios that grace The Village throughout the year. While the show is juried for quality, it is not pretentious—serious paintings share the street with whimsical sculptures and New Age music. We’ll also enjoy lunch on self, and there are many fine restaurants in Tubac, along with an international food court packed with fun vendor’s booths. This is a Kindred Tour’s annual trek that always fills very quickly.
Tortilla Flat & the Dolly Steamboat Cruise
Wed., February 12th, $130 Nestled in the Tonto National Forest, in the Superstition Mountain Range, Tortilla Flat is an authentic old west town. Founded in 1904 as a stagecoach stop, this fantastic destination is just a hop-skipand-a-jump away, on the historic Apache Trail. We’ll arrive early to get seated on the BBQ Patio, where we’ll enjoy lunch on self, including burgers hot off the grill, Tortilla Flat’s famous chili and BBQ, of course. The entertainment on the BBQ Patio is legendary, as the Tortilla Flat Band takes the stage daily, providing old-time rock & roll, plus so much more. Midafternoon we’ll board the Dolly Steamboat enjoy the 1.5 hour Nature Cruise, offering dramatic views of Canyon Lake, known for beautiful shorelines along red rock cliffs and steep canyon walls. Guests on the Dolly may see Big Horn sheep and Bald Eagles, as well as other wildlife. This relaxing tour offers so much!
Churchill at Phoenix Theatre
Sat., February 15th, $145 You Are Cordially Invited to Blenheim Palace for an Evening with Winston. Let us transport you to 1963 England, where a historic celebration unfolds to commemorate Winston Churchill, the indomitable statesman bestowed with honorary United States citizenship by President Kennedy himself. Though unable to grace the White House ceremony, Churchill’s iron spirit takes center stage in the very halls that witnessed his birth. Prepare to experience a captivating one-man show that reignites the flame of a formidable leader who steered a nation through the
fires of war and the triumphs of victory. Revel in his famed wit, oratory brilliance, and the poignant insights that flow as he reminisces about battles waged, leaders encountered, and the women who shaped him. From the profound bond with his beloved wife, Clementine, to his admiration for Queen Elizabeth II and his encounters with American presidents, this truly Churchillian play offers an intimate portrait that intertwines the great politician’s public career with his personal story, painting a vivid chronicle of a life lived boldly on the world’s stage. This matinee performance will be presented in the intimate Judith Hardes Theatre. We’ll also enjoy lunch, on self, at the Miracle Mile Deli, prior to arriving at the theatre.
The Sandhill Cranes of Whitewater Draw featuring the Historic Gadsden Hotel
February 17th-18th, 2025
$426 (Based Upon Double Occupancy) $65 (Single Supplement)
Day One: We’re traveling south to Tombstone—The Town Too Tough To Die—where we’ll find plenty of great little restaurants to choose from and enjoy lunch on self. Later, back in the Transits, we’ll head for Douglas, Arizona. Just a few miles north of the Mexican border, Douglas, a once remote ranching town is home to the infamous Gadsden Hotel. Built in 1902, then destroyed by fire, the Gadsden was rebuilt in 1929 in the Art Nouveau style—offering a magnificent Tiffany stained glass window overlooking the lobby, and a sweeping Italian marble staircase—up which Pancho Villa reportedly rode his horse. The hotel provided gracious hospitality to the growing business brought in by the mining industry and the settling of the Arizona Territory. The lobby of the Gadsden, “the living room,” hosted cattlemen, ranchers, copper mining executives and businessmen. For all of the Gadsden’s rich history, the hotel also had a dark side— catering to gamblers, and notable lawless characters of the American West. Famously haunted, guests and staff members have reported paranormal encounters on every floor, with the third floor seemingly the epicenter. The basement of the Gadsden is beyond fascinating—a 7,000 square foot labyrinth of twenty rooms—which secretly housed bootleg whiskey tunnels, brothels and a notorious speakeasy. We’ll check into our beautifully renovated rooms, and after a refresh we’ll enjoy a Welcome Dinner, served buffet-style with a glass of beer or wine, and it’s all included. After dinner, we’ll explore the Gadsden, beginning on the third floor, winding our way down into the basement—with guides recounting the darker history that arose from the underbelly of the hotel. Afterwards you might want to call it an early night—we’ve got a big day tomorrow!
Day Two: We’ll be up before the crack of dawn to enjoy a continental breakfast, included, at the hotel. Back in the Transits, we’ll hit the road for Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, one of the best places to view sandhill cranes, with an estimated winter population of over 30,000. Located in the Sulphur Springs Valley—a Chihuahuan desert grassland habitat— Whitewater Draw is surrounded by Arizona’s magnificent sky islands. The sandhill cranes spend the night standing in the draw’s shallow waters to evade predators, and then fly out at sunrise, to feed and socialize in the surrounding area. With an impressive wingspan of 6 to 7 feet, the early morning mass ascension of the
Trips and Tours continued from B15
sandhill cranes is a sight to behold! There is no visitor’s center at the Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area, but there are restrooms. In addition to sandhill cranes, the waters of the draw attract many kinds of ducks, geese, herons, egrets, shorebirds, gulls and terns, as well as various mammals. Don’t forget your camera! Formerly a cattle ranch, Whitewater Draw Wildlife Area was purchased in 1997 and is now managed to enhance wetland habitats and provide waterfowl habitat, and wildlife viewing. After this heart-stopping experience, we’ll travel to Bisbee, located 90 miles southeast of Tucson in the scenic Mule Mountains. Founded in 1880, Bisbee was one of the most cultured cities in the American West— the largest city between St. Louis and San Francisco. Downtown Bisbee still retains much of its cosmopolitan charm, with its mining camp roots also fully on display in the rollicking Brewery Gulch district—once home to 50 saloons and several brothels. We’ll visit the Queen Mine, don hard hats, miner’s headlamps and the always stylish yellow slicker, then head underground and back in time! Retired Phelps Dodge employees will narrate our journey 1,500 feet into the mine, recounting the dangers and dramas of mining days. Afterwards we’ll stroll the streets of Bisbee, now home to many interesting shops and galleries, and we’ll enjoy lunch on self with several fantastic restaurants to choose from. Midafternoon we’ll head for home—a relaxing journey through the rolling grasslands of Southern Arizona, with plenty of great stops along the way. This Kindred Tours Classic should not be missed!
Cronan the Barbarian at the Gaslight Theatre Sun, February 23rd, Sunday $138
Cheer the hero and boo the villain at the Gaslight Theatre, where musical comedy melodramas have been on the menu since 1977, and the audience is part of the show! The ancient world has descended into chaos and lawlessness when one man rises up to fight for the lives of his fellow tribesman. This unlikely hero, who is part man and part myth, is the Legendary Cronan The Barbarian! As he battles impossible odds to bring peace to these turbulent times, Cronan must face a legion of enemies, armed only with his brute strength and the powers of a mystical sword. Get ready for an epic and hilarious adventure as The Gaslight Theatre is invaded by Cronan The Barbarian! Located in the old Jerry Lewis Theatre in Tucson, the Gaslight is also home to the award winning Little Anthony’s Diner, where we’ll enjoy lunch on self. Voted Tucson’s Best Diner, Little Anthony’s famously serves great sandwiches, pizza, fresh salads and so much more. Enjoy diner-style milkshakes, adult beverages, and fantastic desserts, all served throughout the show. The Gaslight Theatre experience is a BLAST! Don’t wait to make your reservations for this very popular tour.
Kartchner Caverns
Tues, February 25, $138
In November 1974, Gary Tenen and Randy Tufts were exploring the limestone hills at the eastern base of the Whetstone Mountains. They were looking “for a cave no one had ever found” and found it. The two kept the cave a secret until February 1978 when they told the property owners, James and Lois Kartchner, about their awesome discovery. Since unprotected caves can be seriously damaged by unregulated use, they knew the cave had to be protected.
Tenen and Tufts spent several years looking into the possibility of developing the cave themselves. Some members of the Kartchner family lived in Tucson and were very impressed with the development and operation of Catalina State Park by Arizona State Parks. They decided to approach State Parks to see if the agency was interested in acquiring this outstanding resource. Today we have an opportunity to experience this stunning limestone cave in Southeastern Arizona that boasts world-class features. This “live” cave, is host to a wide variety of unique minerals and formations. Water percolates from the surface and calcite formations continue to grow, including stalactites dripping down like icicles and giant stalagmites reaching up from the ground. Tour guides will unveil this fascinating underground landscape during a memorable 1-hour tour. We’ll also enjoy lunch on self, prior to our cave tour, at a nearby plaza that offers a variety of fastfood restaurants.
Palm Springs—Adventure Awaits!
February 27th-28th, 2025
$449 (Based Upon Double Occupancy)
$104 (Single Supplement)
Day One: Hop aboard the Adventure Express to fabulous Palm Springs—a beautiful oasis, rich with Hollywood history, great food, midcentury modern architecture, and so much more! We’ll leave the Valley headed straight into downtown Palm Springs, where we’ll enjoy lunch, on self, at the restaurant of your choice. After lunch we’ll check into the Palm Springs Hyatt, an all-suites hotel located on Palm Canyon Drive, in the heart of the historic village. We’ll take some time to relax and refresh, before heading out this evening to explore Palm Springs’ famous Villagefest—
an exciting street fair, just footsteps outside our hotel lobby. We’ll enjoy gourmet food trucks offering everything from BBQ to exotic cuisines, international delicacies to gooey desserts. Bring your dancing shoes! Villagefest offers a fantastic line-up of live entertainment, including bands playing everything from jazz and blues to old-time rock & roll and reggae. Shops, galleries and restaurants stay open late, and you’re welcome to just relax and people watch from a sidewalk café. It’s Palm Springs—do your thing!
Day Two: We’ll enjoy a delicious hot breakfast, included, at the hotel, before setting off on an exciting exploration of some of Palm Springs’ more significant points of interest. We’ll visit famous neighborhoods, legendary secret spots and the homes of stars. We’ll cruise past Liberace’s estate, Clark Gable & Carole Lombard’s getaway, Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn’s vacation home, Kirk Douglas’ home, Ronald and Nancy Reagan’s home, Elvis Presley’s Honeymoon Hideaway and so many more! Palm Springs was “Hollywood’s Playground!” Later we’ll board the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway— the world’s largest rotating tram car— to set sail on a journey through the breathtaking cliffs of Chino Canyon. We’ll be transported to the pristine wilderness of Mt. San Jacinto State Park, while enjoying spectacular views of the valley floor below. At an elevation of 8,516 feet, we’ll reach the Mountain Station, offering a natural history museum, observation deck, gift shops, and two restaurants where we’ll enjoy lunch on self. Later we’ll head for home, with a quick stop for the “Valley’s Best Date Shake” compliments of Kindred Tours. Don’t miss it!
Senator Adlai Stevenson and many others. William Clayton famously wrote the Marshall Plan in what is now known as the Clayton House. Hollywood celebrities who visited the ranch included, Joan Crawford, Tom Mix and John Wayne, just to name a few. Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind, spent time at the ranch and Zane Gray regularly wrote there. Today Rancho De La Osa offers a remarkable guest ranch experience, with fabulous food—much of it locally sourced—and a great wine list. There are endless activities to keep you busy from sunup to sundown, although many guests are drawn to the ranch for its tranquility and remarkable scenery.
Da for lunch on self, and a little sightseeing, in the charming artist’s hamlet of Tubac. Later, back in the Transits, we’ll head for Sasabe, Arizona, where the adventure really begins! We’ll check into our
included.
or
LEISURE WORLD AQUATIC & ATHLETIC SPORTS CLUB
February Group Exercise Class Registrations Begins Thursday, January 2 at 7:00 a.m., online, in-person or by phone.
If you
for a
We
to
Fitness Center Guest Membership
Leisure World members who would like to add a guest to their membership for use of Fitness Center can do so at the front desk of the administration building.
FITNESS CRAZE
Yes, stretching is an important part of fitness! It plays a vital role in enhancing overall physical health and performance, as well as preventing injuries. Stretching is often overlooked and neglected but can make a world of difference in how we feel and move. As we age, stretching becomes even more important for maintaining physical health and function. Here are the key reasons why stretching is crucial for older adults:
1. Maintains Flexibility
As we get older, the muscles, tendons, and joints naturally lose flexibility. Regular stretching helps preserve and improve flexibility, allowing us to maintain an active lifestyle and perform daily activities—such as bending, reaching, and walking—more easily and without discomfort.
2. Prevents Muscle Tightness and Stiffness
Aging often leads to increased muscle stiffness, which can limit movement and make everyday tasks more challenging. Stretching helps to counteract this by promoting muscle elasticity and joint mobility, making it easier to move and reducing discomfort from stiff muscles and joints.
3. Reduces the Risk of Falls
Maintaining flexibility and balance is key to reducing the risk of falls, which can become more common as we age. Stretching, particularly stretches that involve balance and coordination (like yoga), helps improve stability and range of motion, which can make it easier to react quickly and prevent falls.
4. Improves Posture
As we age, we may develop poor posture due to muscle imbalances, tightness, or changes in the spine. Stretching can help counteract these issues by lengthening muscles
that may be too tight and strengthening those that are weak, leading to better posture and reduced strain on the back and neck.
5. Promotes Joint Health
Stretching helps lubricate the joints by increasing the flow of synovial fluid, which nourishes the cartilage and keeps the joints functioning smoothly. This is particularly important for reducing stiffness and discomfort caused by age-related conditions like arthritis.
6. Enhances Circulation
As we age, circulation can become less efficient, leading to decreased oxygen and nutrient delivery to muscles and tissues. Stretching helps improve blood flow, ensuring that muscles and joints receive the nutrients and oxygen they need to stay healthy and recover from activity.
7. Supports Mental Health
Stretching, especially when incorporated into activities like yoga, has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. As we age, maintaining mental and emotional well-being is just as important as physical health, and stretching can be an effective tool for reducing anxiety, improving mood, and enhancing mental clarity.
8. Helps Maintain Mobility and Independence
Maintaining flexibility through regular stretching can make it easier to perform daily tasks like reaching, tying shoes, or getting out of a chair. By improving overall mobility, stretching can help older adults remain independent for longer, reducing the need for assistance with basic activities.
Incorporating gentle, regular stretching routines into
Stretching!
daily life can help mitigate some of the natural changes that occur with aging, leading to improved overall health, mobility, and quality of life.
Set yourself up for success this year. Prioritize stretching and watch how it transforms the way you feel!
Zielinski
JP Soto Fitness Supervisor
Nancy Binder Adjunct Class Instructor
Erica LeBaron Fitness Specialist
MEET & EATS
Vitalant Blood Drive
Monday, January 6
7:00a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Rec. 1 Parking Lot Register with Vitalant or QR code
Performance Physio
Jan. 9
1 p.m.-2 p.m.
Prime IV Hydration
Did you know being properly hydrated can improve brain cognition, reduce risk of falls due to dizziness, improve energy and enhanced overall wellness? Join us for a conversation all about the importance of staying hydrated.
January 14
12:30 p.m. -1:30 p.m.
Rec. 1 Theatre
Edward Jones
At Edward Jones, understanding your goals and partnering with you to achieve them is the best part of what we do. Financial education is an important piece of that partnership. That’s why we’re excited to invite you to our upcoming event, where you’ll learn about strategies to help you achieve your financial goals.
January 15
12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m.
Rec. 1 Theatre Catered Lunch!
Fellowship Square
How to enrich your heart, body, mind, and spirit! Join our presentation and get a free subscription to our wellness app.
January 20th
1:00 p.m. -2:00 p.m.
Rec. 1 Theatre
Local Wellness Lounge
Join us for an informative presentation on the incredible possibilities of eliminating joint pain and muscle aches, through the latest advancements in rehabilitation and regenerative medicine!
January 22
12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m.
Rec. 1 Theatre
Alignment Health
Alignment Health Plan is committed to being an educational resource for our community. We are excited to meet you, discuss this important topic, and answer any questions you may have!
January 28
12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Rec.1 Theatre
SkyMed International
SkyMed Takes You Home is the Premier membership-based emergency evacuation company in the industry. It is the only company that takes members to their home hospital by their choice, even if they can be treated locally.
January 30
12:00p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Rec. 1 Theatre
January 20th 1:00 pm in the theater
January Group Exercise Schedule*
2:00 PM
Mindful Movement: Chair Yoga FLEX/S&F/Renew 30 min LVL 1-2
LVL 1 -4
Mindful Movement: Chair Yoga FLEX/S&F/Renew 30 min LVL 1-2
3:00pm Impressive Stretch FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min. LVL 2 Impressive Stretch FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min. LVL 2
4:00 PM
5:00 PM
6:00PM
Yoga Flow FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 1-3
Dynamic Drumming FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL1-4
Functional Circuit FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 4
Yoga Flow FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 1-3
Dynamic Drumming FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL1-4
Gentle Yoga Core & More FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 1-3
Attention Renew Active Members
Functional Circuit FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 4
Gentle Yoga Core & More FLEX/S&F/Renew 45 min LVL 1-3
Starting in January your insurance will cover 10 drop-in classes OR 10 visits to ONE class. This will include classes that are scheduled 3 times per week. Renew Active members that are registered for these classes can only attend 10 during the 4-week period to be covered with insurance. You CAN pay the DROP-IN FEE to attend the remainder of classes for that month.
Morning Yoga with Nancy K will not be holding class on the following dates due to room availability or Holiday conflicts: 1/1/25 1/15/25 1/24/25 2/14/25
January Class Desriptions
Aqua Fit M/W/F 12:00PM –12:45PM This class provides a water workout that includes cardio conditioning and muscle strengthening exercises using a variety of equipment with the water’s natural resistance. $5/class or $30/month OR T/TH 12:00PM-12:45PM $5/class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Balance For Life T/TH 1:45PM - 2:30 PM Who doesn’t want better balance? This class is designed to help you improve and maintain your balance, increase your confidence, and reduce fall risk. We’ll work on both front/back and lateral balance, strengthening your vestibular system, sensorineural network and spatial orientation! $5/class or $15/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew) CLASS STARTS OCTOBER 15.
Better Back, Happier Spine T/TH 12:45PM - 1:30 PM This low-impact class has a dual focus: strengthening the muscle groups which support your spine, and gently stretching those which your back needs to function. We’ll work on correcting some common causes of lower back pain with posture and exercises. As the experts say, “Move it or lose it,” So, let’s get moving! $5/class or $15/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew) CLASS STARTS OCTOBER 15
Clogging- Fridays 11:45am-2:45pm Clogging is a truly American form of dancing, with steps taken from different cultures, and can be danced to a wide variety of music styles. It is good physical exercise as well as brain exercise! The focus is on learning the steps, and the steps are “called” so you can easily dance to different songs as you learn. You are welcome to learn at your own pace, and the class ranges from early beginner to intermediate plus and more. $5/class or $30/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Dynamic Drumming M/W/F 5:00 – 5:45 PM - This fun workout joins the dynamic movements of aerobic dance with the pulsating rhythms of the drum! Come drum and dance to music from 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and 2000’s! This is a unique sensorimotor fitness class that is designed to give the mind and body instant feedback through continuous movement and rhythmical flow. $5/class or $30/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Fight Back Boxing M/W/ 11:45 12:15 PM – This non-contact class is based on the Rocksteady Boxing for Parkinson’s program. It will improve cardio fitness, balance, agility, motor skill & coordination, and functional strength conditioning. You will need to provide your own gloves and hand wraps $5/ class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Forever Fit M/W/F 9:00 – 9:45 AM – This class incorporates low impact cardio intervals with weight bearing exercises to increase strength and bone density for a full body workout including balance challenges and flexibility. You will also learn how to successfully get on and off the floor with or without a chair as needed. $5/class or $30/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Functional Circuit T/TH 4:00 - 4:45 PM – An interval type of physical training (cardio & strength) that involves high intensity exercise alternated with rest periods is highly effective in conditioning the cardiovascular system. Must be able to easily get up and down from the floor. $5/class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Gentle Yoga Core & More M/W 4pm-4:45pm- Technique that combines the flexibility of yoga and the strength of core exercises in one session, designed to improve mind and body health. This class can help with stress, osteoporosis, posture, circulation and more. Gentle Yoga Core and More combines balance, stamina, strength, and flexibility with Core techniques that improve posture, core strength, and stability. It is a gentle yet effective exercise format that can benefit anyone. $10/class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Hustle & Muscle M/W/F 10:00 – 10:45 AM. Enjoy low impact cardio aerobics utilizing full range of motion exercises for joint movement for the first part of the class. Followed by a focus of strength and toning for a total body workout. This class will get the heart rate up and build muscle tone. $5/class or $30/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
HydroRider® Tuesday OR Thursday 12:30PM – 1:15 PM – Aqua cycling has become a fitness phenomenon because of the many incredible benefits - high caloric burn, lean muscle-building, increased circulation, with low impact on the joints. Aqua shoes required. $10/class or $30/month (S&F and Renew) Rec. 2 Therapy Pool
Hydro Spin WEDNESDAY OR SATURDAY 12:30-1:15PM – Hydro Spin is a level 2 class that will be styled after a traditional spin bike class. The focus will be on aerobic and cardio foundations. Utilizing lower body and large muscle groups. $10/class or $15/month (S&F and Renew). Wednesday’s class starts October 16, Saturday’s class starts October 12.
Impressive Stretch T/TH 3:00PM –3:45 PM - Our 45-minute class will lengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and mobility. We will include static, dynamic, and ballistic stretch moves with bands, foam rollers, mats, and balls. Participants will need to be able to get up and down from the floor. $5/ class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Mat Pilates T/Th 10:00AM - 10:45 AM – This class is based on Joseph Pilates principles focusing on connecting breath and core activation. It’s designed to build core strength, abdominal endurance, and tone muscles. You must be able to get on and off the floor with or without chair assistance. $5/class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Monster Race 1 Mile Training- T/Th 7:00AM - 7:45 AM- FREE FOR THOSE SIGNED UP FOR THE RACE. Prepare for the Leisure World 5k Monster 1 Mile Walk on October 26, by walk/jog intervals to our 1mile goal. The class is designed to build endurance and strength by gradually increasing our distance each week. The class will meet at the sport court and will walk different routes.$5/class or $20/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
Morning Yoga with Nancy Knauth- M/W/F 8:00AM – 9:30 AM This class is a perfect class whether a beginner or advanced yogi. Yoga is a practice, without competition, expectation, or judgement. It is for everybody. Modifications for poses will be provided. Learn to manage stress and anxiety by using breath work. You must be able to get up and down from the floor. $5/class No registration needed(FLEX, S&F, Renew) CLASS STARTS OCTOBER 7. Pay class fee to instructor.
Strength & Balance T/Th 11:00AM - 11:30 AM OR 11:45am-12:15pm- Classes will concentrate on range of motion from head to toe along with lifting hand-held weights and using one’s own body weight to improve stability and strength. $5/class or $20/month OR M/W/F 11:00 – 11:30
or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
TaiChiEz M/W 3:00PM-3:45 PM- consists of TaiChi, Qigong, Meditation, Massage and Breath to decrease stress, promote relaxation; reduce anxiety & depression; improve balance & posture; boost the immune system; improve mental focus, concentration & memory; and more. Join us to experience the Vitality Series of 5 movements for overall health & well-being.$5/class or $25/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
TRU Strength M/W/F 6:00AM-6:45 AM This functional strength training class is designed to counter many of the physically adverse effects of aging by improving muscle tone, connective tissue strength, enhancing metabolism, and development of both daily and athletic performance while teaching you proper form & mechanics. $5/class or $30/month (FLEX, S&F, Renew)
TRX SPORT T/TH 8:00-8:45AM Enjoy a suspension training body-weight workout that develops strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously. This TRX class will introduce progressions for the exercises learned in TRX Fundamentals. This class will also include TRX exercises on the floor. $5/class or $25/month, FLEX, S&F, Renew
Schedule is subject to change. All classes need a minimum of 5 registered to proceed with class.
All Group Fitness Classes start January 6, 2025. No classes January 2nd or 3rd.
Fitness Center will be unstaffed January 1st in observance of New Years Day.
Notice: NO Hydro Rider, Hydro Spin or Aqua Fit classes in January due to cooler weather.
Insurance changes for 2025, please notify the Fitness Desk so we can make changes.
Rec.1
CLASS SPOTLIGHT
Fight Back Boxing
This month's spotlight group exercise is Fightback Boxing! If you're interested in improving your cardio fitness, balance, and agility, then this might be a fantastic class for you. Fightback boxing is based on the Rock Steady Boxing for Parkinson's Program and caters to individuals who may need assistance reducing shakiness and improving strength. Although this class caters to those affected by Parkinson’s, it is still highly beneficial for anyone looking to strengthen their balance.
Fightback boxing is a non-contact class that incorporates basic boxing techniques for the purpose of exercise. Movements include choreographed jabs,
hooks, and uppercuts along with other activities. The activities performed in this class also aid in improving motor skills, coordination, and functional strength conditioning.
Sign up for Fightback Boxing today to conquer your personal limitations and take control of your health!
This class is scheduled weekly on Monday and Wednesday at 11:45 a.m. It costs $25 for monthly registration, however, insurances under Renew, Silver Sneakers, or Silver and Fit are accepted. Please call (480)- 832- 0000 ext. 212 or 213, or visit www. lwca.com to sign up.
Stress Relief From Laughter? It's No Joke
When it comes to relieving stress, more
By Mayo Clinic Staff
Whether you're guffawing at a sitcom on TV or quietly giggling at a newspaper cartoon, laughing does you good. Laughter is a great form of stress relief, and that's no joke.
Stress relief from laughter
A good sense of humor can't cure all ailments, but data is mounting about the positive things laughter can do.
Short-term benefits
A good laugh has great short-term effects. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally, it actually induces physical changes in your body. Laughter can:
• Stimulate many organs. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygenrich air, stimulates your heart, lungs and muscles, and increases the endorphins that are released by your brain.
• Activate and relieve your stress response. A rollicking laugh fires up and then cools down your stress response, and it can increase and then decrease your heart rate and blood pressure. The result? A good, relaxed feeling.
• Soothe tension. Laughter can also stimulate circulation and aid muscle relaxation, both of which can help reduce some of the physical symptoms of stress.
Long-term effects
Laughter isn't just a quick pick-me-up, though. It's also good for you over the long term. Laughter may:
• Improve your immune system. Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. By contrast, positive thoughts can actually release neuropeptides that help fight stress and potentially more-serious illnesses.
• Relieve pain. Laughter may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers.
• Increase personal satisfaction. Laughter can also make it easier to cope with difficult situations. It also helps you connect with other people.
• Improve your mood. Many people experience depression, sometimes due to chronic illnesses. Laughter can help lessen your stress, depression and anxiety and may make you feel happier. It can also improve your self-esteem.
Improve your sense of humor
Are you afraid that you have an underdeveloped — or nonexistent — sense of humor? No problem. Humor can be learned. In fact, developing or refining your sense of humor may be easier than you think.
• Put humor on your horizon. Find
a few simple items, such as photos, greeting cards or comic strips, that make you chuckle. Then hang them up at home or in your office orcollect them in a file or notebook. Keep funny movies, TV shows, books, magazines or comedy videos on hand for when you need an added humor boost. Look online at joke websites or silly videos. Listen to humorous podcasts. Go to a comedy club.
• Laugh and the world laughs with you. Find a way to laugh about your own situations and watch your stress begin to fade away. Even if it feels forced at first, practice laughing. It does your body good.
• Consider tr ying laughter yoga. In laughter yoga, people practice laughter as a group. Laughter is forced at first, but it can soon turn into spontaneous laughter.
• Share a laugh. Make it a habit to
spend time with friends who make you laugh. And then return the favor by sharing funny stories or jokes with those around you.
• Knock, knock. Browse through your local bookstore or library's selection of joke books and add a few jokes to your list that you can share with friends.
• Know what isn't funny. Don't laugh at the expense of others. Some forms of humor aren't appropriate. Use your best judgment to discern a good joke from a bad or hurtful one. Laughter is the best medicine
Go ahead and give it a try. Turn the corners of your mouth up into a smile and then give a laugh, even if it feels a little forced. Once you've had your chuckle, take stock of how you're feeling. Are your muscles a little less tense? Do you feel more relaxed or buoyant? That's the natural wonder of laughing at work.
Can a Quick Snooze Help with Energy and Focus? The Science Behind Power Naps
By Jenette Restivo, Health Writer; Assistant Director for Digital Content Creation and Engagement, Harvard Health Publishing Sourced from Harvard Health Publishing
If you need a quick pick-me-up during the day, a power nap can be just the thing to help restore mental clarity and fight off fatigue. Power naps can help boost productivity and improve overall well-being, especially when taken at the right time and for the right duration.
What is a power nap?
A power nap is a short nap that lasts anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. Even though you're only resting for a short period of time, power naps can effectively increase your level of alertness and focus.
How? Power naps allow your body and mind to rest without entering deeper stages of sleep. Once you enter deep sleep — typically about 30 minutes after you've fallen asleep — you are likely to experience "sleep inertia" upon waking. Sleep inertia is the drowsy feeling you may get when you wake up, in which you feel temporarily disorientated and are slower to react. It can take your body 30 to 60 minutes to recover from sleep inertia.
Benefits of a quick snooze: An energy boost and mental clarity
Naps offer several health benefits that can improve your quality of life. Studies show that naps can enhance mood, reduce fatigue, and improve alertness.
Additional research has found that power naps may help decrease blood pressure and improve heart health, especially when taken in the early afternoon.
Power naps may support work performance as well. Researchers at NASA found that pilots who napped 20 to 30 minutes were over 50% more alert and over 30% more proficient at their jobs than pilots who didn't nap.
How long should a power nap be?
Keep your power nap to 30 minutes or less to avoid sleep inertia.
A shorter nap can also help you bypass some health risks associated with longer naps. For example, a study published in Obesity found that adults who napped longer than 30 minutes were more likely to experience higher blood pressure and blood sugar levels than people who did not nap. Short nappers did not share this increased risk.
Set an alarm to ensure your nap doesn't exceed the 30-minute mark.
Tips for a restorative power nap
The following tips can help you get the biggest boost out of your power nap.
Time it right. Aim to nap in the early afternoon, ideally between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., when your body naturally experiences a dip in energy. Napping too late in the day can interfere with nighttime sleep. That said, the ideal time to nap varies by individual. Some people
may benefit from earlier naps depending on what time they wake up and go to sleep.
Keep it short. Set an alarm to wake you after 20 to 30 minutes. A short nap will leave you refreshed rather than groggy. Create a cozy environment. Find a quiet, dark, and comfortable space where you won't be interrupted. If you're in a bright or noisy area, consider using an eye mask or earplugs to help you fall asleep faster.
Listen to your body. If you frequently feel the need for a nap, it may be a sign
of inadequate nighttime sleep. While a power nap can help boost energy in the short term, make sure you're prioritizing a good night's rest as well. Frequent daytime drowsiness can also be a sign of sleep apnea, a common disorder that causes people to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. Talk to your doctor if you are regularly sleepy during the day or if you're a loud snorer.
Finally, napping is not for everyone. Some people may not feel refreshed even after a short nap. In that case, the best approach may be to avoid napping and focus on getting a good night's sleep.
GOLF DEPARTMENT
Mastering Your Mid-Irons: The Key to Consistent Golf
By: Daniel Yoder Head Golf Professional
Mid-irons, typically ranging from the 5-iron to the 8-iron, are some of the most versatile clubs in your bag. Whether you’re hitting into a par-3, laying up on a par-5, or attacking a tucked pin, mastering these clubs can drastically improve your game. However, many golfers struggle with consistency and accuracy when using mid-irons. Here are some proven tips to elevate your mid-iron play and help you hit more greens in regulation.
1. Focus on Proper Setup
A solid mid-iron shot begins with a sound setup. Position the ball slightly forward of center in your stance to allow for a downward strike. Your feet should be shoulder-width apart, with your weight balanced evenly between them. This promotes stability while giving you the freedom to make a full, controlled turn. Keep your hands slightly ahead of the ball at address, which encourages a descending blow, essential for crisp contact and maximum spin.
2. Nail the Swing Tempo
One common mistake golfers make with mid-irons is trying to overswing, sacrificing accuracy for distance. Instead, focus on a smooth, balanced tempo. Think of your swing as an effortless pendulum motion. Many professionals emphasize the importance of a controlled backswing and a steady transition into the downswing. Avoid the urge to “muscle” the ball; let the loft and design of the club do the work for you.
3. Strike the Ball First, Then the Turf
Achieving solid contact with midirons requires a descending strike, meaning the club should hit the ball first and then the turf. A common practice drill is to place a small line or tee just behind the ball and work on striking the ball cleanly without disturbing the tee. This ensures your swing bottoms out in front of the ball, creating a crisp divot and ensuring optimal distance and trajectory.
4. Learn to Control Your Ball Flight
Mid-irons offer an opportunity
LADIES CORNER
By: Lisa Cornelius Assistant Golf Professional
A lot of shot inconsistencies in your golf game come from not finishing your golf swing. But what does this mean? The club head must always finish facing your intended target on the follow-through. On a full swing, pitch, or even a sand shot, the club head must continue to move “through the ball.”
The inconsistent and errant shots come from the club head stopping at the ball. When the club head stops at the ball, there’s no telling where the ball may go.
I will list some common shot patterns due to the club stopping at the ball. I always emphasize to my students that the golf ball will always follow the path of the club head. If you are stopping at the ball and one of your normal shot patterns is a low-ball flight, this is one of the reasons. If the club head finishes low, the ball stays low. If you are hitting shots to the right or left frequently, look at where you and your club head are pointing at the end of your swing. When your body stops at the ball, as in a hitting or swatting type motion, it will never finish facing the target.
When you don’t finish the golf swing, your inconsistencies become greater. I encourage you to always be aware of your finish. Keep in mind the golf swing is a rotation type motion. On the backswing, your back should be facing the target, and on your follow-through, your chest should be facing the target. If you want to hit the ball higher and longer, ensure your golf club finishes high and above your left shoulder (if you are a righthanded golfer).
Direction and distance are the biggest struggles most golfers face. To make a good golf swing, you do not have to swing hard. Rhythm and balance are good rules to follow, and this will allow you to finish your golf swing more effectively. Think of a pendulum and its consistent, rhythmic motion. This is a good visual to keep in mind when swinging.
A new year is upon us. Make some small, attainable goals in your golf game, and watch your game get better! Happy New Year, everyone!
to shape your shots and control trajectory. If you’re facing a headwind, practice hitting lower, penetrating shots by adjusting your ball position slightly back in your stance and abbreviating your follow-through. Conversely, for softer landings, aim for higher ball flights by adding a bit more wrist hinge during the swing and completing a full finish.
5. Dial in Your Distances
Knowing exactly how far you hit each mid-iron is critical. Spend time on the range or use a launch monitor to measure your distances with each club. Take note of any discrepancies between full swings and controlled three-quarter swings, as this knowledge can be invaluable when navigating tricky pin placements or challenging lies.
6. Emphasize Practice with a Purpose
Don’t just aimlessly hit mid-irons at the range. Set specific targets at varying distances to simulate realcourse conditions. Incorporate drills like hitting to different flags
or varying your trajectory with each shot. Practicing under pressure, as if you’re on the course, helps build confidence that translates into better play.
7. Play the Lie
Finally, adjust your expectations and techniques based on the lie. A midiron shot from the fairway is much different than one from the rough. For rough lies, focus on a steeper angle of attack to ensure clean contact. From tight lies, rely on a more sweeping motion to avoid digging into the turf.
Improving your mid-iron play requires a combination of sound fundamentals, focused practice, and on-course experience. By prioritizing proper setup, mastering tempo, and emphasizing clean contact, you’ll build the consistency needed to hit greens with confidence. The mid-irons may not be as flashy as your driver or as precise as your wedges, but they are the workhorses of your game—embrace them, and your scores will reflect the improvement.
Chip/Pitch Shot
Shane Romesburg Golf Operations Manager Dan Yoder Head Golf Pro
Lisa Cornelius Assistant Golf
Jedd Helgestad Assistant Golf
Submitted by Jeanne Gardin Publicity Chairperson
Our next General Meeting will be January 9th. We have been notified that our General Meetings will now begin at 11:45am instead of 11:30. All members are encouraged to attend. We need everyone’s input on important matters! As usual, play will begin at 1:00pm.
Games for Thursdays in January are as follows:
Jan. 2: Par 3’s Count
Jan. 9: Eclectic Day 1 (Medallion)
Jan. 16: Eclectic Day 2
Jan. 23: Cha Cha Cha
Jan. 30: Best Individual Low Net (Medallion)
Everyone is reminded to be sure and sign up no later than Wednesday morning at 10:00am. You may call the Pro Shop if you can’t get in to sign up, or send an email to Lisa at golf@lwca.com, ATTN: Lisa. If you will be walking on Thursday, please write a “W” by your name when you sign up and an effort will be made to start you on a hole that is close to the Pro Shop.
If you are interested in helping keep our golf course in good condition, there is still a need for more volunteers on Divot Patrol. There is a sign up sheet on the bulletin board.
Every woman living in Leisure World is welcome to join our group! We were all beginners at one time so don’t be shy. If you need more information about signing up, call our membership chairperson, Penny Dixon at (587)987-2405. We look forward to seeing you out there
GOLF CLUBS
GOLF CLUBS
Coyote Run Ladies Golf League
Meet our 2024-2025 CRWGA Team:
CRWGA Executive Board
L to R starting back row: Nancy Gerlach (Vice President), Paula Clark (Social), Laurie Brinkman (President), Lori Elliott (Treasurer), Diane Coole (Handicap), Nancy Will (Secretary), Diane Perry (Tournament/League Play), Jan Mitchell (Rules); absent is Jan Biddle (Past President)
Submitted by Nancy Will
CRWGA Committee and Special Events Chairs
L to R starting back row: Bobbie Stearns (Advertising), Judy Hogue (New Members), Shelley Lehrkind (Birdies/Chip-Ins/Ringers), Cathy Dalhed (Invitational), Anita Neustadt (Member/Member), Carla Wizniak (Christmas Gala), Linda Shostak (Recognition), Joanne Weiss (Membership/AWGA), Leslie Goff (Invitational), Betty Rieder (Hole-In-One), Joyce Shepp (50/50); Absent are Jan Biddle (Web Page), Shelley Burnett (CAGD), Margie Caves (Communications/ Team), Cindy Gee (Friendship), Ruthie Lenzen (Member/Member), Sara Levenstein (Team)
Tournament News: The Coyote Run Women’s Golf Association (CRWGA) Eclectic tournament was held November 19 and 26. This event continues to be rated as one of our member favorites — best net score recorded per hole on either day. Tournament results (placement by flight) were as follows:
Welcome to another season for the Heron Lakes Ladies 9 Hole League. On November 5, our league resumed playing on Tuesdays. Following golf, we had our annual Welcome Back Lunch and the monthly general meeting. League will continue every week through April, 2025.
November Golf Results
November 5, 2024 (Step Aside Scramble)
1st place at 18.25 - Janice Funke, Sharon Cziok, Kay Anderson, Pat Connelly
2nd place at 18.75 - Kay Richey, Donna Bailey, Patty Kohoutek
3rd place at 19.00 - Minde Strief, Lyn Erickson, Jan Zale, Sylvia Parrish
4th place at 19.25 - Betty Horner, Gwen Johnson, Orlinda Kittredge, Jennifer Way
5th place at 20 - Pam Schmitt, Lois Stockton, Bev Dillon, Isla Law
November 12, 2024 (Scramble)
1st place at 18.50 - Rita Folk, Ginny Hoyt, Jane Cox, Mary Paulson
Coyote Run Men’S Club November-December 2024 Post
Hello LW Readers,
The fall season started with the traditional Hog Roast (actually a chicken fete) with a good attendance of around 150 members. It was also the occasion for our annual general meeting, and the 2025 board was chosen. The incoming president is Kevin Clark, vice-president is Pat Craney, treasurer is Pat Birchill, tournament director is Randy Bishoff, Kent Gould stays as social director, Steve Elliot as golf advisory director, Mark Kohoutek as rules/handicaps director, Roger Anhorn as our sponsorship director, Ted Brinkman as our IT/ website director, and Rod Spooner moves to past president. There is a lot of continuity with this groups, so you can expect the board to run like clockwork, as usual!
The first big tourney has been played, the President’s Cup team match play event. It ran November 11, 13, and 14. There were seven flights in all, comprising 105 golfers. We had two after-golf snacks and drinks on the pavilion, one lunch, and a prime rib/chicken meal at the end of the event. Please visit our website at lwcrmc. com for a listing of flight winners and photographs of them for evidence, if you are a skeptic.
Next up is our men’s and ladies’ club Christmas party, which is always a lot of fun. Our first home-and-home series is against Cottonwood, commencing December 4. Also watch for the icebreaker for the Member-Member event on January 10. Play follows on the 13, 16, and 17.
Until next time, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy holiday season.
Rod Spooner
2nd place at 20.25 - Janice Funke, Lyn Erickson, Rita Simpson, Marilyn Weber
3rd place at 21.00 - Kim Weimer, Lois Stockton, Kay Anderson, Patty Kohoutek
4th place at 21.50 – Nancy Farrell, Ginger Kuemmerle, Jennifer Way
5th place at 22.50 – Jan Wahl, Cheryle Wenck, Punk Salberg, Pat Connelly
November 19, 2024 (2 Net)
1st place at 53 - Pam Schmitt, Lois Stockton, Joey Smith, Denise Haala
2nd place at 54 (Card Playoff) - Lillie Chafin, Lyn Erickson, Bev Dillon, Patty Kohoutek
3rd place at 54 -Janice Rydalch, Ginger Kuemmerle, Terri Goade, Pat Connelly
4th place at 56 (Card Playoff) - Ann
Moskal, Kris French, Jane Cox, Jan Zale
5th place at 56 – Betty Horner, Connie Richert, Jennifer Way, Xenia Johnston
November 26, 2024 (1 Net Even Holes, 2 Net Odd Holes)
1st place at 37 (Card Playoff) - Dorothy Kemp, Barbara Busak, Sue Paitel, Debbie Dehne
2nd place at 37 - Minde Strief, Pam Moore, Marilyn Weber, Patty Kohoutek
3rd place at 39 (Card Playoff) - Betty Horner, Kris French, Rita Simpson, Punk Salkberg
4th place at 39 - Orlinda Kittredge, Ann Moskal, Lyn Erickson, Lois Stockton
First Place Winners
Second Place Winners
Third Place Winners
Heron Lakes Ladies 9 Hole League
CLUBS | GROUPS | PUZZLES | GAMES | SERVICE DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIEDS | LIFE TRIBUTES
Trivia Time! On the Move Leisure World
Team
By Andi Box
After a brief hiatus while recovering from whooping cough, also known as the hundred-day cough, or more formally pertussis (I know this, because it was one of the trivia questions), Scott Immel took the helm once again to a sold-out crowd for Leisure World’s seventy second trivia challenge.
One of the more interesting questions was about Brown Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, that is the busiest day for people in a certain trade. While most groups logically surmised that it was busy for UPS workers and their brown trucks, the actual answer was it is busiest for plumbers. Scott added: “I hope none of you have that problem this year!”
Scott had many holiday trivia questions. Interestingly, none of the groups knew what the wobbly, red piece of flesh on top of the beak of a turkey is called. Most groups thought it was a wattle, which is incorrect, because the wattle is the red piece of flesh underneath the beak. The correct answer is a snood.
Team Scotty’s Angels, with only four members, won the first round.
The next round flew by, with the audience singing a resounding rendition of Elvis Presley’s Return to Sender, filling in the lyrics “Return to sender, address unknown/No such number, no such zone.”
Team Birthday Boy won the second round.
In the final round, the tie breaker was needed. The question was “What was the number of whiskey and bourbon distilleries in the USA in 2023?”
The crowd liked George Miller’s answer of “Not enough!” However, the correct answer was 739.
As the ultimate birthday gift, Team Birthday Boy won the third round, as well.
Happy Birthday!
Team Scotty's Angels
Birthday Boy
Alzheimer’s/Parkinson’s Club
Submitted by Vicki Jensen
Are you feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to turn? If you are caring for or are concerned about someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or any other form of dementia or Parkinson’s Disease, our Leisure World Support Group is here for you! You’ll receive valuable information, caregivers’ strategies, emotional support, and reassurance from others who have travelled this road or are still on the journey. We learn from one another and feel that our load has somehow been lightened when we share one another’s challenges and concerns.
We meet every third Wednesday of the month throughout the year at 10:00 a.m. in the Queen Card Room in Rec. 1. Please mark your calendars and join us!
We also have handouts from the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, Barrow Neurological Institute, and the Alzheimer’s Association, which offer helpful information.
We look forward to seeing you and any friends who are caregivers. All information shared during our meetings remains in the room. We always enjoy refreshments as we gather! Please remember you are not alone!
For more information, please contact Vicki Jensen at 480-369-1466 (vicnal7@gmail.com).
American Association of University Women (AAUW) East Mesa Branch
Submitted by Molly Brenza
The East Mesa Branch of the AAUW will meet for our next general meeting on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Join us at 1:00 p.m. for social time with our business meeting starting at 1:30 p.m. Please note the date, as it is a change from our usual Wednesday meeting to accommodate the holiday. Our speakers for January are members Bev Byrd and Betsy Flaten, who are the AAUW State Chairs on Public Policy. They will discuss AAUW public advocacy and fill us in on activity statewide. Come hear what’s happening from this dynamic duo.
Each year, this East Mesa Branch of the AAUW supports 12 local women scholars through full scholarships to two- and four-year colleges. The group meets once a month for a general meeting on the first Wednesday of the month in the Rec. 1 Clubroom. General meetings include a social gathering as well as a presentation from a speaker on varied topics pertinent to women and education. Special interest groups update members on their current activities.
CLUBS
For membership information, please call Betsy Flaten at 218-491-4777, or Elaine Prom at 480-207-0655 or visit our website at: https://eastmesa-az.aauw.net.
Leisure World Bible Study
Submitted by Don Dyk
We are a club that studies Biblical prophecy. We will begin this next season on Sunday, January 12, 2025. We meet in the theater at 7:00 p.m., and for six more successive Sunday evenings, except for Super Bowl Sunday. There will be a total of seven meetings. This marks the eighth season of classes for studying prophecy from a Biblical view. Study notes are provided and are presented on the screen. Some of the questions to be discussed include: what does the Bible say is happening in the world today (including the Middle East); how do we know we are in the “last days”; is there a specific timeline that outlines the end of the world as we know it; is the Bible proven to be reliable when it comes to future events?
For any questions, please contact Don Dyk, Manor 1221, at 701-440-1240, or email me at don.dyk@ gmail.com
Billiards Club
Happy New Year! The party is over, the band went home. Now what do you do? Head for the poolroom, where you can learn the games or improve your skills. The room is open from 6:30 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. for free play.
Tournaments for club members are almost daily: Mondays at 6:30 p.m.: 1-15 version of 8-ball. Tuesdays at 12:30 p.m.: 9-ball Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m.: A new game developed by several Club members called “Side Pockets Only”. Begins January 8. Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.: 8-ball. Saturdays at 12:30 p.m.: 8-ball.
Keep checking our bulletin board for all our other activities. We are here to have fun.
Dakota Club
Submitted by Kris Pillar
The Dakota Club is a place for Leisure World residents with ties to North and South Dakota to get together for dinner and conversation. We typically meet on the third Thursday of each month, November through April. The January dinner for the Dakota Club will be held on Thursday, January 16, 2025. Save the date and watch for emails in early January with details about the meal, time, location and registration information. We look forward to seeing you on Jan. 16. Officers are President, Ron Baranko; Vice-President, Maxine Beckwith; Treasurer, Dennis Rhode; Secretary, Kristie
Pillar. Please contact an officer if you have any questions or suggestions. You may find their numbers in the LW Directory.
Democratic Club
Submitted by Valerie Wendt Secretary, Democratic Club Happy New Year And 2025, Leisure World!
The Leisure World Democratic Club looks forward to an exciting agenda in this new year. We will not have candidates to speak to us this year, since there are no serious elections until 2026. However, we will focus on the communities of the Phoenix area and Mesa, Gilbert, and Scottsdale, of course.
We have decided to invite Kaylie Kochanski to this month’s general meeting. Kaylie Kochanski, Community Relations Manager for Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport Authority. Kaylie will provide an overview of this airport history and current operations, as well as some future/current projects in the area and adjacent airport communities.
We will meet on Wednesday, January 8 at 1:00 p.m. in the Club Room. Please try to arrive by 12:45 p.m. to register and socialize.
We will be happy to accept your membership fee for the new year this month. We are excited to share the many new ideas that our members suggested at last month’s meeting. These are ideas for how to spend our time together at this year’s general meetings.
We look forward to gathering with our like-minded Democrats once again.
SEE YOU ALL SOON!
Sonoran Desert Garden Club
We have gone on field trips, learned about the worm farm in Phoenix, and learned about pruning our trees as well as learning how to vet our landscapers and arborists. We talked about vegetables and citrus and are always open to suggestions from our members for topics that we want to explore. Members receive discounts on programs and at local nurseries.
We meet on the third Thursday in the theatre at 4:30 p.m. The cost is only $10.00 per year per manor for all you can learn! Call Tish for more information. Here’s to a happy and healthy New Year, and keep growing!
GATHER:
The GATHER group had a busy November with several fun outings.
Busy November Photos from the GATHER Group
We first went to Gilbert for a day of candle making at Candle Chemistry. The candle-making ladies greeted us and used their expertise to help us make our candles. They added a few ideas to enhance the scents we were trying to achieve. Once the candles were made, the group wandered to downtown Gilbert for a lovely time chatting over lunch before heading back to Candle Chemistry to pick up our finished candles.
Next, the group went to visit Suzy for our always-popular trip to Singing Panda restaurant. As always, Suzy wowed us with great food and warm welcomes and got the group singing along with her entertainers. Suzy always puts the group in a lively mood.
We then followed up that outing with a trip to Don Bluth’s Front Row Theatre for It’s a Wonderful Life, where Clarence, George Bailey, Mr. Potter, and the whole cast got us all in good spirits.
Lastly, we headed back to Martin’s Auto Museum, where we got to see Melvin’s collection of rare and classic cars, as well as a car designed by George Barris (who’s famous for the original Batmobile, among many others). Melvin was lucky enough to have the recently refurbished Sandust II , originally made from a 1953 Lincoln back in 1954 -1955. The car was loaned to him from a car museum in Chicago.
Keep watching the post, as we frequently come up with more events on very short notice. All events are open for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re married, in a relationship, or single, and if there is space available, you can also bring your non-Leisure World friends.
George Miller Manor 1625
774-275-4009
Iowa Club
Submitted by Lori Borland
The Iowa Club social and dinner will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Rendezvous Cafe located at Rec. 2. doors open at 5:00 p.m. with dinner served at 6:00 p.m. The cost is $15.00 per person, please make checks out to Lori Borland. If paying with cash, please have a note with your name. Payments can be dropped off in the box on my patio at Manor 1532 on Leisure World Blvd. from Thursday, January 16 through Sunday, January 19. As always, B.Y.O.B.
Anyone born, raised or affiliated with Iowa is welcome!
Hope to see all our Iowa natives again January 21, 2025!
Investment Club of Leisure World
Submitted by Shelly Begel
Investment Club of Leisure World (aka San Tan
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and other stocks (average earnings between 10 – 15% annually).
Each member has an interest according to the amount of their deposits and contributions. There are no membership fees to join, but there is a minimum contribution requirement of $25 per month, which is $300 annually, which is required, starting when you join. This 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 and to learn more about investing in the stock market.
We meet the third Thursday of each month, in season. We are meeting at the Internet Oasis, at 1 p.m. for between 1 and 2 hours. Please join us on January 16, 2025. If you cannot attend the meeting in person, you are welcome to join us virtually.
For more information before the meeting, you can contact our president, Alan Forbes, 808-497-8109. You can call, text, or email Alan at johnalanforbes@ yahoo.com. You can also come to the meeting on January 19, 2025. Don’t forget our new this year time and location, which is in Rec 1, on the corner near the Recreation office. Come check us out at 1 p.m. in the Internet Oasis.
Leisure World Christian Fellowship Bible Study
Submitted by Mary Louise Hendricksen
As the New Year of 2025 begins, we will continue our weekly Bible Study on the Book of Isaiah. We meet each Thursday in the theater from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. All study materials are provided but B.Y.O.B – Bring Your Own Bible. This study is for men and women. On Thursday, January 30, we will have Bible Study at 9:30 a.m. in the Lakeside Clubhouse to be followed by a potluck. For any questions, please contact Mary Louise Hendricksen, Manor 823, 480-832-2507.
Leisure World Community Theater
Submitted by Charlene Ingerson Graphic arts by Linda Weinstock
We’re excited about this season’s upcoming one-act comedies to be performed March 1-3, 2025. Both plays, “Radio Play Disaster” and “Bad Auditions by Bad Actors,” are hilariously entertaining. We know these selections will elicit lots of giggles and guffaws from an appreciative audience.
If you’ve always wanted to be on stage, we’d love to have you join the fun! We’ll be holding the last audition for roles on January 3, noon - 5:00 p.m.in the Club Room. You have the option of auditioning in person or
audition remotely via Zoom. To schedule an audition, visit this link: https://tinyurl.com/LWCT-Auditions.
If you have any questions about how the auditions will work or need help scheduling your audition, please contact Kellini Walter, at 206-234-8733 or email kellinisue@hotmail.com.
Whether you’ve performed in theater in the past or always wanted to, please sign up for an audition. There are many roles we need to cast between both plays, and we hope to see some new faces in the club this year.
If you’d like to take part in the production but don’t feel ready to be on stage, we would love to have your help in any of the many other jobs needed to stage these plays. Have experience in applying makeup? Want to work in the front of the house taking tickets or selling raffle tickets? Think you might want to help with lighting or sound or making props or any of the other tasks needed? We’d love to have you as part of our crew.
Whether your interest is focused on stage or behind the scenes, being a part of our club can be a great way to gain experience while connecting with other enthusiasts. Club dues are only $5 annually. For current members, please remember to pay your dues to Lynne Campbell this month.
Our next meeting will be held Wednesday, January 15 from noon - 1:00 p.m. in the Rec 1 Club Room. Hope to see you there!
The Computer ClubGenealogy SIG
The Computer Club - Genealogy SIG (Special Interest Group) is back in action, and we are excited to announce the return of Genealogy classes at Leisure World! We have plenty of chairs, so come ready to learn and ask questions. If we don’t know, we know who to ask!
Genealogy SIG classes are on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month, from 1 p.m.- 2 p.m. in the Internet Oasis next door to Rec. 1 Ballroom. The schedule for January 2025 is as follows: Jan 8 – State Resources. Have a question about where to find a state-specific fact? We will share where to look, what to find, and use examples from people in class to search for answers. Bring your questions so we all can learn.
Jan 22 – Federal Resources. Census Records - what they can tell you in each decade. National Archives –a free resource. We will show you how to set up an account and find information.
If you have questions you wish to submit ahead of time, please feel free to send them to Kim Hansen at kahansen58@gmail.com, and I will do my best to find an answer before class.
Kim A. Hansen Manor 1135
Leisure World Investment Club (AKA: Green Bananas)
Submitted by: Frank Jacoby Manor 1540
Our current club members have on average enjoyed a 14% compound annual return over the duration of their memberships. Non-members, new members, beginners and seasoned investors are always welcome guests at our meetings.
Are you making the right moves for your retirement? Learn about investing, discuss market conditions, discover fresh ideas for your retirement portfolio, bounce ideas/tips off others, and experience an entertaining and social way to build your nest egg.
The Leisure World Investment Club has been educating members and residents about investing in the stock market and investing the assets of the partnership for the benefit of members/partners since 1987.
Members enjoy access to the resources and benefits derived from our affiliation with “myICLUB” and “Better Investing.”
We typically meet on the second Wednesday of each month October through May and additionally as needed over the summer.
Our next meeting will be held in the theater on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 1 p.m.
Please contact Frank Jacoby (frankjacoby4@gmail. com) or 248-535-5456 for more information.
Our January meeting’s discussion segment will focus on crypto currency.
L.W. PEO Group
Happy New Year to Leisure World! Our PEO Group enjoyed a wonderful Christmas celebration in December. The next meeting of the Leisure World PEO group is planned for Friday, January 3, 2025 in the Club Room. The morning will start with refreshments at 9 a.m., Meeting at 9:30 a.m. Hostesses for the meeting are Kathy Huber, Jan Wahl and Jo Andrews.
Our program for January will be given by Gayle Butler. She will present “Family History and Artifacts”. It is sure to be a wonderful program!
Our next D’Vine Book Club will be January 22, 2025 at Janice Dill’s house (Manor 1192) at3:30 p.m.
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Our book will be Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver; discussion leader is Galene Sobolik
All PEO’s living in Leisure World are invited to attend. We would love for you to join us. Janice Dill will be happy to answer any questions you might have about the Group. Her phone number is 920-860-0638.
Minnesota Club
The “Great Minnesota Get Together” is Thursday, January 23 at 5:00 p.m. in the Rec 1. Ballroom. A delicious Italian dinner will be catered by the Rendezvous Café. The cost is $20 per person.
So, save the date and mark your calendars! Tickets will be sold in Rec 2. lobby on two days: Tuesday, January 14, from 1 p.m.-3 p.m., and Saturday, January 18, from 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
If these dates don’t work for you, please get in touch with Julie Shaughnessy. We need a final headcount by Jan 20, so no tickets will be sold at the door.
Rendezvous Café will be catering a delicious Italian dinner, including dessert and set ups.
Thank you for your input at the November meeting for future club events, so come prepared to have some fun and interesting activities. Watch the post for more details.
Everyone is welcome! See you on the 23!
Julie Shaughnessy
612-867-6750
Linda Pratt 612-715-3171
Republican Club
by Diane Andersen
Our motto is “Educate, Encourage, and Inspire.”
The election of officers was held for the upcoming years of 2025 and 2026. The results are president, Diane Andersen, vice president, Dave Speyer, secretary, Christina Lock and treasurer, Chuck Gervais. These officers were installed at the December event.
Inauguration Day is scheduled for January 20, 2025. It will be an exciting day for our members and guests. The day will start at On the Green (OTG), located across the street from the Leisure World main entrance for a group watch of the televised inauguration. Join us at 9:00 a.m. for a no-hot breakfast or coffee.
Inauguration night will usher in the regularly scheduled meeting at 7:00 p.m. in the Rec. 2 Hopi/ Pima Ballroom. Please plan to attend for a special celebratory program.
Membership dues are $5 per year per person. Now is an excellent time to pay your 2025 dues. If you have missed a year or more, you will only owe $5 to bring your membership up to date.
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.
The Shalom Group meets the third Sunday evening of the month in the Rec. 1 Club Room at 7 p.m. You do not need to be a member to attend. Everyone is welcome. This month we will have an interesting speaker, a rabbi whose second career will surprise everyone. Come and enjoy a fun evening. Refreshments will be served, of course.
The group welcomes everyone of all faiths. Traditional holidays are observed as well as fun social events.
Dues are $15 a year. You are welcome to visit our meetings at any time. Please call Neesa if you have questions at 206-356-2727.
Wisconsin Club
by Robin Dougherty
Happy New Year, Wisconsinites! Please save the date for our Wisconsin Club gathering on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, in the Rec. 2 Rendezvous Café. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. for socializing, and dinner will be at 5:00 p.m. B.Y.O.B/D. Soda and ice will also be provided. Grant and his staff will cater an Italian-themed dinner of lasagna, Caesar salad, and garlic bread. For dessert, cannoli will be served.
The price is $15.00 per meal. Checks should be made payable to Leisure World Wisconsin Club. To make your reservation, drop off your check or cash at President Terry Evan’s Manor #1728 by Friday, January 10. There will be a box labeled Wisconsin Club in a secure location. Please include names of all attendees, manor numbers, and email addresses. Thank you!
Plan to come and socialize with your fellow Wisconsinites. Everyone is welcome, even if you are not from Wisconsin. Wear your favorite Wisconsin team colors. We also plan to have the 50/50 raffle. We hope to see you there, and please wear your name tag if you have one.
We will be sending out an email to Wisconsin Club Members and a message on the post reminding everyone of the gathering. For more information, please contact Terry Evans at 920-918-7335, Janice Dill at 920-8600638, or Robin Dougherty at 715-432-0962.
2:00 p.m.
4:00 p.m.
REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS JANUARY 2025
12:30 p.m. Pinochle (QCR)
1:00 p.m. Hand and Foot (LC)
1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (PO)
2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)
3:30 p.m. Music Makers (MR)
Volleyball (P)
Matinee (T)
6:30 p.m. Partner Bridge (LC) MONDAY
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (C)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
8:30 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Shuffleboard (SHB)
9:00 a.m. Pottery Class (POT)
9:00 a.m. Twiddlers (FA)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
11:30 a.m. Pop Country Line Dance (HPG)
12:00 p.m. Mah Jongg Madness (LC)
12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
12:00 p.m. Mexican Train (LC)
12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)
1:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)
1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (PO)
6:00 p.m. Scrabble (LC)
6:30 p.m. Rubber Stamping (CER/SG)
TUESDAY
8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
9:00 a.m. Ceramics (CER/SG)
9:30 a.m. Big Band (HPG)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)
6:00 p.m Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)
6:30 p.m. Men’s Poker (QCR)
7:00 p.m. Mah Jong (LC)
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (C)
8:00 a.m. Wednesday Coffee (CLR)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
8:30 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)
9:00 a.m. Shuffleboard (SHB)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (POT)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:00 p.m. Mexican Train (LC)
12:00 p.m. Happy Ladies Bridge (APA)
12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (PO)
1:00 p.m. Cribbage (QCR)
6:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)
6:00 p.m. Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)
6:00 p.m. Hand and Foot - Samba (LC)
THURSDAY
8:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)
8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (PIMA)
8:30 a.m. Ladies Billiards (B)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Pottery Class (POT)
9:30 a.m. Christian Fellowship (T)
9:00 a.m. Quilters (FA)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
1:00 p.m. Bridge Thurs Ladies (LC)
1:00 p.m. Dealers Choice Poker (NAV)
1:00 p.m. Mah Jongg (APA)
1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (PO)
2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)
4:00 p.m. Chess (QCR)
6:00 p.m. Rubber Stamping (POT)
6:00 p.m. Hand and Foot - Samba (LC)
6:30 p.m. Party Bridge (APA)
7:00 p.m. “l-15” tournament (B)
FRIDAY
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (C)
8:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (CER/SG)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Shuffleboard (SHB)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Knitters & Crocheters (FA)
9:00 a.m. Open Studio (AS)
9:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (POT)
9:30 a.m.
ARTS & CRAFTS CLUBS
Arts & Crafts Meetings and Classes Schedule
DECORATIVE ARTS
Art Assoc. – (AS) Contact: Billie Klaus, 970-231-4845
Open Studio: Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Jewelry and Lapidary (LAP) Contact: Dan Coulombe 479715-5826.
Photography Club (AS) Contact: Bob Bennett, 480-250-7127
Knitters & Crocheters Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-6414626 – Fridays 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. All interested knitters, beginners to experienced, join in. We teach beginners and help those who are having difficulty with a pattern, No charge.
Open Sewing Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626 Open to all residents who do hand sewing.
Ceramics Club
Good news from the Ceramics Club! We have all kinds of paints and brushes to use as well as a large assortment of pieces to work on. Come in and take a look!
Club hours are Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, call Linda Staveteig at 815385-3605.
Happenings at LW Glass Studio
by Gail Bowers
• We have open workshop every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Stained Glass class will be Thursday and Friday, January 9 and 10 and Thursday, January 16 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Mosaic Glass will be Tuesday, January 21 and Tuesday, January 28 from 1p.m. to 4 p.m.
• Fused Glass will be Friday, January 24 and Friday, January 31 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Our teachers are here until the end of the “season” and will return in the fall again. Information will be posted for other upcoming classes. Stop in and see what our members are doing with glass and join one of our classes. Our teachers will teach you to score and cut the glass as well as designing beautiful items for your home or for gifts. Stop by any Monday or Wednesday. We would like to meet you and share our love of glass.
Jewelry and Lapidary Club
Submitted by Elaine Murphy
The jewelry and lapidary club classroom and shop are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. We offer classes in beading, casting, chain making, dichroic glass, lapidary, faceting, and enameling. Come into the shop to see examples of these products. The cost of each class is determined by the instructor. We provide the necessary tools and supplies required for your project.
All the jewelry in our display case is for sale and has been hand crafted by members of the jewelry club. Come take a look and get inspired!
Pillowcase Dresses Contact: Darlene Footh, 701-339-8491. Make little girls’ dresses out of pillowcases for charity.
Quilters Contact: Judy Kauth, 757-651-5648 – Tuesdays are open swing , Thursdays 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 p.m. Join us for group projects, speakers, demos, field trips and more. Donations are made to multi-generational groups.
Twiddlers: Mondays 9:00 a.m. – 11 a.m. Fiber Arts Room Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626. Any handwork done with a needle or needles, i.e., knitting, crocheting, cross stitch, needle point and applique.
FIRED ARTS
Ceramics (CER/SG) Contact: Linda Staveteig, 815-3853605. Beginners, newcomers, everyone welcome! Open Workshop and Firing: Tuesday, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Ceramics Class: Friday, 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Porcelain Painting (POT) Contact: Edie Pearcy, 480-7340685 or Ginger Merkle, 303-988-6420. No teacher. No
The next general meeting will take place on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the jewelry/lapidary shop. All interested residents are invited to join us. The jewelry and lapidary club will be hosting an open house on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon. Come and see our artisans at work. We teach classes on beading, casting, chain making, dichroic glass, lapidary, faceting, and enameling.
Photography Club News
by Charlene Ingerson
January will have two special Photo Club events to look forward to: the next in our series of presentations by a professional photographer on January 18 AND our annual photo exhibition in conjunction with the LWF lecture on January 29.
Each month during the season, we invite a professional photographer to speak to our club on an aspect of photography. This has been a popular program not only with club members, but also with Leisure World residents who would like to learn more about photography. The professional advice has been valuable, and our speakers typically have time for a question and answer session, as well. All residents are invited to attend.
January’s speaker is Sue Wright. Sue has a degree in photography from ASU (one of the top 10 colleges in the country for that program). She subsequently worked as a photographer for ASU, as well. With over 32 years in commercial and fine art photography and extensive experience teaching at all levels of education, it was small wonder that she should also be selected to teach several workshops for Arizona Highways Photoscapes.
Always passionate about raising and training horses, Sue now owns several. The tremendous variety of specializations within the horse world has enabled her to generate a body of photographic work around horses, riding, training, and, of course, wild horses. If you’ve ever thought about heading out to photograph our local Salt River horses, you won’t want to miss this presentation in the Leisure World Theater on Saturday morning, January 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Every year, our club pairs with the Leisure World Foundation to exhibit related photos during one of their seasonal lectures. This year, the exhibition will be on Wednesday, January 29 in conjunction with the LWF lecture by Mick Buchheit. Mike will be talking about living and working in the Grand Canyon. He’s a very engaging speaker with interesting tales to tell of his time in the Canyon. This free exhibition will be in the rear of the Hopi Pima Room and open to attendees both before and after the lecture.
lessons. Work on your own. A semi-annual fee of $5 for firing. All China painters are welcome.
Open Studio: Wednesday and Friday, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Pottery (POT) Contact: Judy Cooley, 512-470-9456
Open Studio: Sunday, Tuesday, and Saturday, 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Open Studio: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday,12 - 10 p.m.
Firing & Unloading: Monday & Thursday
Class with instructor Larron Lerdall: Monday & Thursday, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
GLASS PROGRAM
Glass Arts (CER/SG) Contact: Gail Bowers 480-577-6677.
Open Studio: Monday & Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Ongoing Classes for new artists
The LW Photo Club is a fun group of photographers at all skill levels who capture images with a variety of cameras, including our phones. We meet each week on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the LW Theater to learn and share and enjoy each other’s company. We’d love to have you as part of our group.
LW Quilters
Submitted by Linda Faber
After a successful Fall Craft Fair, the wonderful world of quilters is continuing to welcome back winter visitors. We also had a fantastic Christmas party that consisted of bringing items for the food bank, a cookie exchange, and fun activities.
Our board members constantly develop new ideas and projects for the club. The schedule for January includes making a Hawaiian T-shirt quilt, we are excited to see how colorful that quilt will be!
If you enjoy quilting, learning new skills, and socializing, join us on Thursday from 8:50 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Fiber Arts Studio. For questions, please contact Judy Kauth at 757-651-5648 or Carol Stickling at 847-951-6937.
Monday Morning Twiddlers and Friday Morning Crocheters, Embroiderers and Knitters
Submitted by Carolin Lowy
Thank you all who supported our group at the November Craft Fair. The unique raffle item - The Grey Pet Bed - was won and is now making a small Chihuahua called “Nina” very happy and snug.
Every Monday and Friday morning, a friendly group of residents and their guests gather in the Fiber Arts Studio from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. You can come by for the full two hours or however long you can stay. Our supply closets have a great selection of yarn, needles, hooks, and tools to utilize.
On Fridays, some of us enjoy lunch at the LW Café, and once a month we go to local restaurants to celebrate birthdays.
Folks work on their own special projects or create items that we donate annually to charities both here in Arizona and out of state for “Warm Up America.” Check our new bulletin board on the outside wall to view our recent creations.
If you need help with crocheting, embroidery or knitting work, there are plenty of people to answer your questions.
Carolin Lowy, Manor 259, 480-641-4626
CARD & GAME CLUBS
Card and Game Events Schedule
Card groups listed are open games and residents are welcome to come and join the group. Reserved room is subject to sharing if less than 20 in attendance.
BRIDGE GROUPS
ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Mondays & Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Year Round
ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Friday, 12:30 p.m. April – October
Party (APA) Contact: Lynn Peters, 262-853-4870 Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Year Round.
Progressive (QCR) Contact: Marlene Patton 507-2710003 . Thursday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct – May.
POKER GROUPS
Dealer’s Choice (NAV) Contact: Jim Munkwitz, 803747-1677 . Tuesday & Wednesday 6:00 p.m., and Thurs 1:00 pm. Year round.
Poker Men’s (QCR) Contact: Jim Shields, 920-9464793 . Tuesday & Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Oct – May.
Texas Hold’ Em (QCR) Contact: Randy Rickert, 602524-2503 . Monday, 1:00 p.m. & Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round
Bunco
Bunco meets the first Tuesday of the month in the Club Room at Rec. 1 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 p.m., so please be there by 6:15 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Our next game will be on Tuesday, January 7.
The 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.
For more information, call Laura Krever at 310-9168105 or Dana Bourque at 602-757-4348.
OTHER CARD AND GAME GROUPS
Bunco (CLR) Contact: Laura Krever, 310-916-8105 or Dana Bourque, 602-757-4348 . 1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Year-round.
Cribbage (QCR) Contact Don Newman, 402-578-2743 Wednesday and Friday, 1:00 p.m. Year-round.
The group continues to have fun in this easy, fun, friendly game that allows conversation as you meet new friends for a relaxing night of cards.
George Miller Manor 1625 774-275-4009
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; time to chat and mingle with friends and neighbors, before play begins.
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.
Date: Fridays
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m.
Game starts at 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Leisure World Scrabble Club
Submitted by Carolin Lowy Happy New Year to all Leisure World Residents and their guests.
On Monday evenings at The Lake Side Club House, folks who enjoy spelling challenges meet to enjoy games of Scrabble and Upwords. Your choice. The club supplies everything needed.
Gather at 6:00 p.m. with games starting at 6:15 p.m. On January 13, players and guests will enjoy our annual potluck supper.
Need to know more? Give me a call. Carolin Lowy, Manor 259, 480-641-4626
MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS
The Casual-Aires
Submitted by Allen Cziok
The Casual-Aires Executive Committee wishes you a Happy New Year filled with fun, adventure, success, and good health! We hope you had an enjoyable holiday season with your family and friends.
A huge thank you to those who renewed their membership and attended our November event. And we welcome the many new members and attendees who were there. We hope we were able to exceed everyone’s expectations.
Our 2025 schedule kicks off on Saturday, January 18, when we welcome back “CITY NIGHTS.” This versatile group promises to deliver a memorable evening covering the widest variety of old and new, rock and country songs.
Please don’t forget to contact casualairesreservations@ gmail.com between December 28 and January 8 to confirm your attendance and to provide the names of any persons with whom you would like to be seated.
Casual-Aires dinner dances may be attended by any Leisure World residents for only $50 per individual or $100 per couple by contacting our reservations team.
If you have talents and ideas to enrich the CasualAires experience, we are always seeking help with our membership, reservations, decorating, music, or food committees. Contact any of our executive team.
We invite you to help us make 2025 a great new year.
Desert Belles
Desert Belles are a group of women who love to sing in harmony. We meet every Monday, from 12:30 p.m.3:00 p.m. in the Music Room at Rec. 2.
In December, we had an early start on Christmas caroling. Thanks to all who attended our performance at the Rec. 1 courtyard on December 2, where the warm sun made songs like “White Christmas” a little bit of a reach! Later, we entertained shoppers at the Assistance League Thrift Shop in Chandler, where they held their annual Christmas open house and sale. Santa even helped us with his bells while we sang “Jingle Bells.” The final Christmas event was our annual LW caroling, where we visited various residents in Leisure World to bring some Christmas cheer to their homes. We followed that up with a delicious Christmas chili potluck.
After a holiday break, we’re starting Monday, January 6, to work on our repertoire of songs for a final courtyard appearance in the spring.
We are happy to welcome new members to our chorus; come to the Music Room at Rec. 2 on Mondays at 12:30 p.m. and check us out!
If you have any questions, please contact Barb Carney at casey2duffy@gmail.com or call 480-650-9551.
Leisure World Dinner Club (formerly Western States and Canada Club)
The Leisure World Dinner Club will have three dinner/ shows for the 2025 season in Rec 2 Hopi/Pima rooms. For all dinner shows, doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with dinner served at 6:00 p.m. and the show at 7:00 p.m.
The first dinner/show on Thursday January 9, 2025 will be featuring steel drum percussionist Paul Mc Dermand paulmcdermand@cox.net
The second dinner/show on Monday February 17, 2025 will be featuring pianist extraordinaire, and wellknown, to Leisure World. Brady Goss bradygoss88@ gmail.com
The third dinner/show on Thursday March 3, 2025 will feature Crystal Stark with her infectious energy, beautiful smile and out-of-this-world voice. crystalstarkmanagement@gmail.com
WELCOME BACK!
Leisure World Big Band
The members of your Leisure World Big Band hope that all friends of the Big Band and their guests had a very happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year, and we look forward to seeing them at our rehearsals every Tuesday, 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m. at Rec. 2.
Our December dance was well attended, and the dancers enjoyed dancing to our new tunes. We are rehearsing new tunes for our March dance scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2025.
The Leisure World Big Band is also sponsoring the performance of the East Valley Pops Orchestra on Thursday evening, February 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. This performance will also be accompanied by the Leisure World Choir for one of their selections.
For more information, call John Andrews 660-5412588 Manor 1465.
We suggest a caption for photo: “The Leisure World Cloggers perform a Christmas program for the residents of Visions Assisted Living in Apache Junction.”
Leisure World Cloggers
The Leisure World Cloggers welcome the new and familiar faces of January visitors. The holidays are over, and now is the perfect time to dance away some of those excess calories!
Clogging class is offered through the Fitness Center every Friday from 12:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. in the mirrored classroom. Instructors Dan Rowan and Cathy Martin teach beginner steps in the first part of the session and progressively work toward intermediate steps and dances. You can pay a drop-in fee of $5 an hour or pay $30 in the Fitness Center for a month of sessions. Beginners can get their first lesson free if they pick up a pass from JP in the Fitness Center! If you have Silver Sneakers or Silver Fit through your health insurance, check with the Fitness Center for how costs may be covered.
Cloggers very much enjoyed performing at Visions Assisted Living in Apache Junction on December 5. It was an all-Christmas program of dances to the great delight of the residents. One of them even came onto the floor and joined the cloggers mid-dance!
Clogging at a more challenging level than Intermediate is offered at Scootin’ Boots on Wednesdays from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. It has a fee of $10 and is not part of the Fitness Center class schedule. More information is available from the instructors who teach on Friday in Leisure World.
Why not try clogging as a New Year’s resolution? It
Music and Dance Events Schedule
Ballroom Dance Classes - Contact: Bill Goss, 480275-4647
Pop Country Line Dance Contact: Susan Tuttle, 602329-2213.
Music Makers - Tuesday afternoons in the Rec. 2 Music Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. NovemberMay
Ukulele Practice Group - Contact: Mary Smith, 480288-1423.
Like to play the ukulele or always wanted to learn? Come and join up with others who love to play this amazing instrument.
could become the newest part of your active lifestyle. It’s a fun way to exercise. Feel free to observe the class on a Friday afternoon. You might like to give it a try. Everyone is welcome.
L.W. Music Makers
Submitted by Mary Smith
The Leisure World Music Makers had a great time this past year and look forward to a New Year of making music together.
We are a group of musicians who play the piano, guitars, harmonicas, ukuleles, saxophone, melodicas, and more. We have a variety of music we play. Come, listen to our group, and see if it is right for you.
Music helps our brain as we age, and playing with a group adds another level of joy and well-being.
Music Makers meet every Tuesday afternoon from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Music Room at Rec. 2.
For more information, contact Mary Smith at 480288-1423 or email at marykry95@gmail.com.
Mary Smith M355
The Leisure World Mixed Chorus
A sincere thank you to all who joined us in December for our concert “Holiday Road.” Our program was meant to highlight the wondrous diversity of our holiday celebrations, as well as act as a reminder that our hopes for kindness, peace and joy are those that DO unite us. And yes, we’ve received many positive comments, so thanks for blessing us and each other!
Alas, there is no rest for avid musicians, so we’ll begin rehearsing for our spring concert on Tuesday, January 7, continuing Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the Rec. 2 Music Room.
We always welcome new voices, so if you want to sing, make new friends, and have a load of fun in the process, contact our director, Donna Mahan, 217-720-7990.
Moonlight Serenade Dance Club
Submitted by Mary Cartner Silver Anniversary Dance
Just as music is particularly effective in moving the emotions of the heart, dance can be said to be the physical expression of that spirit. Are your feet “happy feet?” Do you find yourself toe tapping or chair dancing
MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS
when the band starts playing? Or does music simply conjure long lost memories? Then you have the spirit! MSDC is proud to have offered thousands of members the opportunity to dine and dance to live music reminiscent of the 30’s and 40’s over the past 25 years.
Start your new year with us in your finest formal attire January 25, 2025. The Sonoran Swing Orchestra will move you to toe tap, chair dance, or best yet, get up and dance, or simply sit and enjoy!
Tickets are available for guests. Bring friends, new or cherished, and make it a very special night to remember. Contact Joy early for meal selection.
Member suggestions for ideas and participation can be submitted to Jerry. Visit the MSDC website: https://moonlightserenade.yolasite.com. For membership / tickets contact: Joy: joyk3048@gmail.com; or Jerry: jerrymundell45@gmail.com.
Shall We Round Dance Club
Submitted by Kaye West
After an enjoyable holiday season, Mesa round dancers are beginning the new year with two weekend festivals: Dancing in the Desert (lite for phase 4; weekend for phase 4-6) with visiting instructors from Minnesota/Florida, and at the end of the month, Cactus Capers (phase 4-6) with instructors from Washington.
January also features the Escape the “Snow” Ball dinner/dance (phase 3-5), two Sunday dance parties (phase 3-5), and the usual full schedule of workshops and dances for phases 2-6 (see rounddancing.azphx.com which also contains the 2025 brochure) with dances on Sunday and most Tuesday nights and workshops Wednesday and Friday mornings at Rec. 2 where visitors are welcome to see what is possible in their future when they begin round dance lessons!
Beginning lessons – starting in January with no experience required – include: Rumba (Monday nights – 406-860-8185)
Cha Cha and Rumba (Wednesday mornings – birgit@haltmayer.com)
Jive (Wednesday nights – 858-822-9981)
Jive (Friday mornings, then Bolero in February – 406-670-3210)
And a weekend geared for newer dancers is scheduled at the end of February!
We encourage everyone to get involved! For more information about round dancing, see the article “Start the New Year Right” in Section A.
Ukuladies and Gents
Submitted by Mary Smith
The Ukuladies and Gents meet every Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Rec. 2 in the Music Room.
We welcome all who play the ukulele, and for those who want to learn, we will help get started.
We played with the Mixed Chorus concert again this year during the sing-along time at their holiday program.
Come and see the benefits and joys of playing a musical instrument with friends. Music is good for the brain, and music will put a smile on your face.
For more information, please contact Mary Smith at 480-288-1423 or Mary Cox at 720-355-0889.
Wednesday Night Ballroom Class
Beginning East Coast Swing
Intermediate West Coast Swing
When: Wednesday Nights 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. East Coast Swing, 8:00 p.m.9:00 p.m. West Coast Swing
Where: Leisure World Rec. 1 Classroom
Cost: $10/person/class- pay at the door (cash or check only) Take both for $15/ person/class
Tentative Figures January East Coast Swing
1/8/24 Shoulder Shove, Windmill, Spanish Arms
1/15/24 Review above, Change Hands Behind the Back
1/22/24 Review above, Miami Special 1/29/24 Review above, Pretzel Turn
Tentative Figures to be Taught January West Coast Swing
1/8/24 Right Side Pass, Cheek to Cheek, Wrapped Whip
Join the class at any time, and pay for only the classes you attend.
Early Bird Stretch Club – Photo
Submitted by Susan Strainis
All are welcome. Join us Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. in the Rec. 1 Ballroom.
Leisure World-Apache Wells Gun Club
It’s a new year and new president and vice president for our club. Elected by unanimous vote at December’s meeting, Vice President Keith Hepler moves into the top spot as president with Cherie Lauro elected vice president. Thomas Lundquist remains as secretarytreasurer.
But we’d be remiss if not noting outgoing President Bob Clark and thank him for his six years of outstanding leadership.
As the holidays become a memory, the club’s schedule of events are as follows:
The January Gun Club meeting will be Wednesday evening, January 8 at 7 p.m. It will be held in the Rec. 1 Theatre. We encourage attendance for any and all who may be curious as to what the Gun Club is about.
The shooting activities all take place at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club, Usery Mountain Shooting Range, 3960 Usery Pass Rd., Mesa
January Events:
• RIMFIRE PISTOL- Wednesday, January 8. Meet at the RSSC Pistol Bay by 7:00 a.m.
• SPORTING CLAYS - Thursdays, January 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30 - Meet at The RSSC Shotgun Range parking lot by 7:00 a.m.
• PRACTICAL PISTOL - Friday, January 24, meet at the RSSC Pistol Bay #2 by 7:00 a.m.
• GUN CLUB LUNCH - Monday, January 27, meet at the Cozy Corner Cafe at 5901 E. McKellips by 11:30 a.m.
SPORTS CLUBS
Attendees to the monthly meeting are asked to bring three (or more) food items for donation to a local food bank. We’ve received word our contributions are greatly appreciated.
If you have any questions, please contact Keith Hepler at KVHepler@gmail.com.
Lawn Bowls Club
The Community Is Invited To Our Celebration Of Lawn Bowls!
Lawn Bowls club will celebrate 50 years of this unique and fun sport on Wednesday, January 15 at the Lakeside Clubhouse (just next to the lawn bowling green at Rec. 1). It will be the spot for picking up some home baked goods to go with coffee provided by First Watch. While you’re there, you can peruse the baskets that we will raffle off toward the end of the day. We will be open from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., and we will demo lawn bowling and let you roll a few bowls to see why we love this game so much! Sponsors include our own RE/MAX, State Farm Insurance, skin care specialists, Village MD, and Natural Grocers. The Cheese Steak Joint food truck will be on hand for lunchtime purchase. We will have photos and memorabilia on display. Come eat, visit and celebrate this special day with us.
For information: Larry Brownell, President (541) 990-0924
Leisure World Pickleball
Here are some details about Leisure World pickleball activities that don’t require LW Pickleball Club membership.
Free pickleball lessons for all Leisure World residents will begin soon.
The Leisure World Pickleball Club offers four consecutive day or evening sessions to introduce newcomers to the nation’s fastest-growing sport.
Daytime sessions begin at noon Tuesday, January 7. Evening classes start at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 9. If there’s enough interest, a second set of these fourweek programs will begin at noon Tuesday, January 14 and 6:30 p.m. Thursday, January 16.
You just need to be healthy enough to be active and wear a pair of court shoes, which are required for using the LW pickleball courts. Loaner paddles are available, so you don’t need to invest in a paddle right away.
If you are interested, you must pre-register with Coordinator Ronda Gates at rondagates@myyahoo. com who will send additional details.
More than 170 players have already registered for this year’s Leisure World USAPA Sanctioned Tournament,
Feb. 13-15, 2025. For the first time, tournament events will be divided by age as well as skill level.
Three major events, men’s doubles, mixed doubles and women’s doubles, are offered for players aged 50 to 64 and aged 65 and up in 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5 skill levels.
The tournament welcomes all pickleball players. For details on days, times, and registration, go to https:// pickleballbrackets.com/pts.aspx.
Leisure World’s pickleball courts are located to the right of the administration building. Check out the pickleball club at https://www.lwpickleball.com/.
Shuffleboard
Leisure World shuffleboard started back up again in November. We meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 9 a.m. to about 11 a.m. You need to arrive before 8:45 a.m. to write your name down to play. With just 8 lanes, only 32 people can play daily. The equipment is provided, and everyone is willing to help teach beginners how to play and how to score.
Becoming a member only costs $20 per person yearly. We have had some great numbers for attendance. Do what works with your schedule. You do not have to attend all three days.
If it is windy or raining, shuffleboard will be cancelled and shared on the LW post.
Hope to see you there. Minde, Shuffleboard reporter
Thursday Morning Lady Billiard Players
Ladies, are you a billiard player?
If the answer is YES, we invite you to join us every Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m. for games of fun. If the answer is NO, we invite you to join us every Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m. to learn the basics of the game.
The Leisure World Billiard Room has everything needed to participate. The only thing missing is you! We meet throughout the year, so come by and join us.
Submitted by Carolin Lowy, Manor 259, 480-6414626
Mindful and Healthier: New Homemade Snacks for the New Year
By Patti Diamond
The new year is a great opportunity for new beginnings and maybe even a slightly healthier makeover. Don’t worry, we’re not canceling cookies! Instead, we’re mixing in some lower-sugar, higher protein, whole-food options that might make your body (and your doctor) happier.
Nearly everyone I’ve shared this idea with has said
Dark Chocolate Bark
Melt unsweetened dark chocolate and spread it out on parchment paper. Top with nuts and a sprinkle of sea salt. Once set, break it into pieces and package it in a decorative box or jar. Dark chocolate is lower in sugar, and the nuts and seeds provide healthy fats and fiber, making this treat both indulgent and nutritious.
Peanut Butter Stuffed Dates
Yield: 1 dozen
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
12 Medjool dates, pitted
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/4 roasted peanuts, chopped
2 tablespoons dark chocolate, chopped
Slice dates lengthwise and remove pits. Fill each date with 1 teaspoon peanut butter. Sprinkle the sticky peanut butter with chopped peanuts and dark chocolate. Chill before serving.
their family is craving the same change. Whether it’s to help with managing diabetes or prediabetes, heart health, food allergies and sensitivities, chronic inflammation, or simply to prioritize healthier habits, it’s a delicious way to give ourselves the gift of wellness in the new year.
For those looking for new snack ideas instead of the usual suspects, these recipes are a perfect choice. They’re easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed
Maple Toasted Coconut Cashews
Yield: about 3 cups or 12 servings
Total Time: 30 minutes
3 cups roasted, unsalted cashews
1/2 cup shredded coconut flakes, unsweetened
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons demerara sugar
Preheat oven to 300 F and line a baking sheet with parchment. In a mixing bowl, mix cashews, coconut and salt. Melt the coconut oil with the maple syrup. Stir in maple syrup mixture to coat cashew mixture. Add sugar and stir once more. Spread the mixture on the baking sheet in a single layer with gaps for airflow. Bake 15 minutes, flip and bake another 10 minutes until golden. Cool for 30 minutes before storing.
with flavor -- proof that healthier choices can still feel indulgent!
Lifestyle expert Patti Diamond is the penny-pinching, party-planning, recipe developer and content creator of the website Divas On A Dime -- Where Frugal, Meets Fabulous! Visit Patti at www.divasonadime.com and join the conversation on Facebook at DivasOnADimeDotCom. Email Patti at divapatti@divasonadime.com (c) 20254 King Features Synd., Inc.
Blitz dates and cashews in a food processor until chopped. Add coconut, oats and cinnamon and pulse. Add in chia seeds, maple syrup, coconut oil and vanilla and pulse until combined. Press into a parchment lined loaf pan and refrigerate until firm. Slice into squares.
CONTRACT BRIDGE
The Rabbit-In-The-Hat Trick
By Steve Becker
A declarer can’t pull a rabbit out of a hat if there isn’t one in there, but sometimes the rabbit is there and declarer doesn’t know it. As a case in point, consider this deal where South is in six spades and West leads a club.
Declarer wins with dummy’s king and leads a diamond to the ace, followed by a low heart to dummy’s queen. East wins with the king and returns a diamond, and South must fail whatever he does next. He cannot successfully trump two hearts in dummy and eventually goes down one.
Oddly enough, after winning the opening club lead with the king, the play that offers the best chance to make the slam is to cash the ace of clubs at trick two and discard the ace of diamonds on it!
For practical purposes, this play assures the slam. It allows declarer to utilize dummy’s Q-J-10-9 of diamonds and score three diamond tricks regardless of which defender has the king of the suit.
In the actual case, South leads dummy’s queen of diamonds at trick three and discards a heart after East follows low. West takes the queen with the king but cannot stop South from scoring 12 tricks consisting of six spades, one heart, three diamonds and two clubs.
The outcome is the same if East has the king of diamonds. In that event, his king is trapped as the diamonds are led from dummy regardless of when he elects to play it, and declarer again scores three diamond tricks. Of course, when South sooner or later draws trump, he cashes the A-K before leading a
SPORTS QUIZ
By Ryan A. Berenz
Questions
1. What Swedish tennis player won the Australian Open, French Open and U.S. Open singles titles in 1988?
2. At the 2024 Paris Games, Greco-Roman wrestler Mijain Lopez became the first Olympic athlete in any sport to win five gold medals in the same individual event. For what country did he compete?
3. Name the goalkeeper who started for Brazil in its 1958 and ‘62 FIFA World Cup championships and was awarded with the FIFA Order of Merit in 1998.
4. What bowler was the first to complete the PBA career triple crown -- winning the U.S. Open, PBA National Championship and Tournament of Champions -- when he accomplished the feat between
third round to the queen to collect whatever diamonds remain in dummy.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
1963-69? (Hint: His son is a comedian and TV personality.)
5. Since 2008, the college football rivalry game between the Ole Miss Rebels and the LSU Tigers has been known as what?
6. Bananas T. Bear is the mascot of what university’s athletic teams?
7. In August 2022, New York Yankees pitcher Aroldis Chapman was placed on the injured list for an infection in his leg caused by what?
Answers
1. Mats Wilander.
2. Cuba.
3. Gilmar.
4. Billy Hardwick (his son is Chris Hardwick).
5. The Magnolia Bowl.
6. The University of Maine Black Bears.
7. A recent tattoo.
(c) 2025 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
HERE'S A TIP
By JoAnn Derson
• “Fill a quart-size zip-top bag with water and double-bag it, making sure there is no air in the bag. Place it inside the toilet tank, on the opposite side from the pump. Secure it there, if you can. This will displace some of the water when you flush, and you will use less water as a consequence.” -- E.S. in Florida
• If you have a stained porcelain sink, try using it to soak your stained garments. The presoak can do double duty on the stained sink and washable alike.
• To make your own breadcrumbs without a chopper or blender, place dry bread pieces in a plastic bag. Use a rolling pin to “roll” them to crumbs.
• Save water in the shower by using your kitchen timer, set for no more than 5 minutes. If you can find a digital one, you will know better how much time you have left. After a little while, you almost don’t need the timer.
• “If you seal your jelly jars with wax, here’s a good tip for you: Place a small piece of string into the wax before it hardens. Then you’ll be able to pull on the wax to remove the wax when you are ready to enjoy your homemade goodies!” -- U.L. in Maine
• “Laundr y stain removers can be good to remove stains from concrete drives. For instance, my relatives’ car was leaking, and I was able to get the stains from my pavers using a spray and wash stain remover that I borrowed from the laundry room. It worked very well.” -- S.E. in Arkansas Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Marjory Lois Atkinson died November 14, 2024, at her home surrounded by several of her children.
Born in Bismarck on July 5, 1927, daughter of Mary Lois and Joseph Barth, Marge graduated from Bismarck High School in 1945. She attended the College of St Catherine, St Paul, MN for two years, then transferred and graduated from the University of North Dakota with a degree in Marketing. Marge returned to Bismarck and worked at Inga’s Dress Shop in downtown Bismarck. Her old high school friend, Myron Atkinson, came home from Law School and on that first date they both knew that they wanted to be best friends forever. Myron and Marge were married at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on July 21,1951 and began a 66-year marriage adventure.
Marjory loved life. She was a strong and gracious presence at her husband’s side in community service, Republican activities, Bismarck State College, University of Mary, and as Baroness von Bismarck. She served as a Girls
LIFE TRIBUTES
Scout Leader or Boy Scout Leader or wherever she could support her children. Marge and Myron traveled extensively to locations such as Europe, Egypt, the Amazon Jungle, China, Russia, and Central America. Twenty plus years were enjoyed as winter residents in Leisure World, Mesa, AZ, where Marge was actively involved in the Mixed Chorus and playing Bridge.
Her passion and greatest enjoyment came from family. She and Myron had seven children who are Timothy (Faye), Bismarck, Sister Kathleen, Bismarck, Thomas (Robyn), Bismarck and Leisure World, Mesa, AZ, Patrick (Julie) Edina, MN, Elizabeth (Murray Wolf), Minnetonka, MN, John (Sharon), Mesa, AZ, and Paul (Lisa), Prior Lake, MN.
Marge is survived by their seven children and spouses and 17 grandchildren: Isaac Pavlicek, Shannon Johnson, Joshua Atkinson, Kelli Erdmann, Derek Atkinson, Scott Atkinson, Ernesto Atkinson, Andrew Wolf, Matthias Wolf, Sophia Wolf, Nicholas Atkinson, Christian Atkinson, Julia Atkinson,
Marjorie Atkinson, Maria Thompson, Joseph Atkinson, and Michael Atkinson, and 8 great-grandchildren: Jordan Pavlicek, Jayda Pavlicek, Aurora Johnson, Aidan Johnson, Abigail Johnson, Barrett Erdmann, Briggs Erdmann, and Bowen Erdmann.
Marjory was preceded in death by her
husband (2017), her parents, and her brother Glenn.
The family would prefer memorials to the GOD’S CHILD Project, PO Box1573, Bismarck, ND, 58502 or Ministry on the Margins, PO Box 3065, Bismarck, ND, 58502
“My diet was going well until I had those visions of sugar plums."
Tiger
By Bud Blake
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Space Available!
Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-8320000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today.
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
Patty's Caregiving Services
I have been helping the elderly and disabled for the past twenty years in the Mesa Area. I have many wonderful references upon request. Please feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.
Patty Carrube, (480) 747-7859
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
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.
My Garage Guys Door Service Senior Discounts, Veteran Owned, BB Accredited. 480-630-3638
HANDYMAN SERVICES
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
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.
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 253-380-5848.
G+M Neighborhood Barbershop
Open 7 Days
6515 E. Main St #123 Mesa, AZ
Specializing In Haircuts For Men And Boys Beard Trims And Shaves
TUES – SAT 9AM – 6:30 PM SUN – MON 11 AM – 5 PM Haircuts $16.00 480-924-5053
MEET YOUR FRIENDLY LEISURE WORLD AVON REPRESENTATIVE, Bonnie Ragsdale, for all of your AVON needs. Call 480-241-3770 or email avon0498@yahoo.com.
HOME
REPAIR & REMODELING
KTS Tile & Stone Ken Thompson Tile installation, repairs, L.V.T. Floors, showers, decks & walways, & custom works.
LICENSED/BONDED Call Ken @ 602-751-0033
SEAMLESS GUTTERS
Edward Donohue Contracting Seamless Gutters License. Bonded. Insured. 480-310-3100 EdwardDonohueContracting@gmail.com Free Estimates at www. EdwardDonohueContracting.com Over 15 years’ experience serving Arizona. All types of repairs: Elastometric coatings, painting all types, gutter guards, seamless gutters, pressure washing, mobile homes, and drywall.
Facelifts 4 Homes. Remodeling specialist. Rob Stalp, 480-703-5637. Over 28 years in Leisure World. Facelifts Home Makeovers LLC, ROC 297942. Facelifts4home@aol.com.
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 Raingutters30colors. Very reliable-Licensed & Bonded. ROC #114475 Call George 480820-8711. 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
RZ FLOOR & BATH COVERING LLC
CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
*HOME ADDITIONS
*ARCHITECTURAL & DESIGN
*FLOORING ANY TYPE
*WALK-IN SHOWERS
*DRYWALL & TEXTURE
*WINDOW & DOOR
*PAINT
*STUCCO
*CONCRETE
*MASONRY
*BLOCK FENCE
*PAVER
*LICENSED/BONDED/INSURED CALL Ricardo Z 602-319-7280
WWW.RZFLOORBATHCOVERING.COM
LANDSCAPING
Designing Arizona Landscape www.designingaz.com Specializing in complete desert landscape and sprinkler install/repair, trimming, blowing, removal, rock, lighting. Low Prices for Seniors. A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau. Perfect record with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Arizona License #243110. Bonded & Insured. Free estimates: 480-380-9966.
ALTOGETHER Landscaping LLC family-owned business provides: * Lawn Mowing
* Bush/Tree Trimming
* Sprinkler Install/Repair
* Plant/Tree Installation
* Paver Installation
* Free Estimates
** Call us @ 480-381-6330 ** 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. D & E Landscaping Free Estimates and Affordable Prices Yard clean-up, tree trimming/removal Call today! (602) 621-9033
Mariposa Gardens tandem mausoleum crypt. Level DD, Space 36. Includes bronze marker. $25,000 obo Contact Diana at 480-250-6141
Don’t want the hassle of selling! I buy all makes and models. Cars, RV’s, Golf Carts, etc.
Forty years of buying experience. Honest and dependable Call or email Rickie today. 480-450-4064 or rickietrainor@gmail.com
PAINTING
AKP Services is now offering RESIDENTIAL PAINTING in LEISURE WORLD. We will handle all stucco, siding, and drywall repairs. We have been serving the valley for 20+ years. 480.910.5181 – See the GAMES page for more info.
PEST CONTROL
Spartan Pest Control
Pest. Weed. Termite Veteran Owned 480-853-3811
PLUMBING
RWB PLUMBING Quality work at affordable prices. Licensed/Bonded/ Insured. Complete Plumbing Service. Re-pipes, toilets, faucets, water heaters, gas lines, faucets, garbage disposals, water services. Senior and Veteran discounts. Visit rwbplumbingusa.com for valuable discounts. When hiring a contractor, always check with the Registrar of Contractors to ensure proper Licensing. We have referrals we are happy to provide. Call 480-332-1457. ROC# 178767.
Aqua Tech Plumbing & Drain Senior & Military Discounts ask for David! Over 25 years of experience, drain cleaning, R/O systems, fixtures, water heaters, toilets, water softeners, sewer line locating, leak repairs, slab leaks, repipes, sewer repairs, and much more. Call David 480-507-3335 or 480-2266795 ROC # 228747
PlumbSmart Plumbing Services - Free estimates - no trip charge! $49 drain cleaning, $99 sewer camera inspection, $189 garbage disposal includes installation. Low-cost toilet replacement, water heaters, softeners and reverse osmosis systems. Whole house re-pipe special, seasonal discounts on furnace and AC tune-ups. Affordable full service plumbing, heating and air-conditioning services. Voted #1 Mesa Plumber and Best East Valley Plumber three years in a row. Senior & Vet discounts. Licensed, bonded & insured ROC223709. Call 480-498-8896.
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.
ACW Mechanical LLC’s Expert Techs are Ready to Help (480) 735-4447 or (949) 235-3877
No trip charge
Senior Discount Available!
ROOFING
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
I Repair Sprinklers Full-Service Sprinkler Repair & Installation. Specializing in all aspects of sprinkler and drip system repair and installation. Timers, valves, leaks, backflow devices, troubleshooting, etc. Licensed, bonded & insured for your protection, 2-year warranties. Guaranteed lowest priced licensed contractor. Flawless ROC record #243662.
Call Mike Smith at 480-233-1009 or schedule online at www.iRepairSprinklers.com.
TAX SERVICE
Kenneth A. Weinstock, CPASpecializing in taxes. Personal and business. Convenient personal service. Multi-state and Canadian returns. Tax planning, IRS audits. Leisure World resident. 480-687-3234.
TO PLACE AN AD
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 480-8320000 Ext. 117.
ASTROLOGY
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Sharing the joys of the celebrations that mark this time with your loved ones can help reinforce your devotion to them. You’ll treasure the reactions you get in return.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Enjoy the parties and pleasures of this week with families and friends. A holiday romance could take you well into the New Year -and maybe beyond!
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) Your loved ones help make this week’s celebrations especially meaningful. Make time to do some serious thinking about the decisions that you’ll soon be facing.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Love of home and family is reinforced during this last week of the year. This could be your chance to open up about secrets that you’ve held on to for far too long.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) Enjoy this week’s special round of merriment with loved ones who adore you, whether you’re roaring with delight at a party or purring with affection at home.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) This last week of the year is a good time to assess what you’ve done and reassess how recent changes might affect your plans for the coming year.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Balance the festive aspects of this last week of the year with honest reflections about the relationships you truly value
and those you think might have become irrelevant.
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21)
Celebrate the week’s festivities knowing that you’ll be able to invest what you’ve learned over the past year into opportunities that await you in 2025.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) Share the merry moments of this week with the wonderful people who have loved you and encouraged you to realize your dreams.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19)
As this week of celebration moves into history, the sage Sea Goat takes their high place in the Zodiac to judge the past and face the future.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18)
Enjoy the last merry-making week of the year knowing that you’ve done well in 2024 and that you’re ready to confront the challenges of 2025!
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) When you ultimately emerge from the celebrations of this week, you’ll find yourself with many new friends whom you’ll take into the next year!
BORN THIS MONTH: You have a strong sense of self that makes people feel comfortable and confident in your presence.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Word Search: Martin Luther King Jr.
WHO IS AMADA SENIOR CARE?
Amada Senior Care is America’s trusted resource for caregiving and long-term care insurance claims advocacy. Our caregivers are trained to provide non-medical assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as:
