Leisure World News December 2024 Issue

CONTACTING LEISURE WORLD

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

LWCA DIRECTORY

Main Number: 480-832-0000

Administration Reception Ext. 101 reception@lwca.com

Allen Family Medicine

LW On-Site Office 480-977-6349

Compliance Office Ext. 109

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

Welcome New Owners

Leisure World News

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

Communications/LW News Office: 480-832-0000 ext. 117, news@lwca.com

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

Communications Supervisor: Carley Cathemer, ccathemer@lwca.com

Advertising Specialist: Elizabeth Ramos, eramos@lwca.com

Graphic Designer: Erica Odello, eodella@lwca.com

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

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 Some of our current photos of residents are outdated and/or unrecognizable.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.

LW Newspaper Resident Advisor: Ronda Gates, MS

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION:

DEADLINE

ADMINISTRATIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS

December Board and District Meetings

Board and district meetings resume this month.

Memorialize Your Pet

District Chair Email Addresses

Wednesday Coffee

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 Wednesday Coffee. Visit with fellow residents and learn about Leisure World from a resident’s perspective. Join us for coffee and light snacks in the clubroom at Rec. 1 just across from the courtyard every Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Please wear a name tag so that we can greet you properly.

Our community manager Clark Collier will join us the first Wednesday of every month, so be sure to stop by and say hello!

Find Rudy Reindeer

Meet Rudy, our winter addition to the Leisure World Newspaper. The first resident to locate Rudy and send us an email stating his exact location will be awarded a small prize!

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.

Plaques for the dog park are now available at AlphaGraphics. Purchase your plaque for a nominal fee at AlphaGraphics and then make a $50 donation to Leisure World to memorialize your pet. Bring your $50 to the finance office, then bring your plaque and Finance receipt to the

office. Plaques will be installed on a monthly basis. 4" x 2" metal plaques are $12 each. There are two color choices: Black with gold letters or gold with black letters.

Join the 2,000 plus residents that enjoy peace of mind and security by using the Surepay system to pay their monthly HOA dues. You will save time by using this convenient method to securely pay on time. No more worries of late fees if you forget to pay or are unable to bring your payment to the drop box. Stop by the Finance office or email at finance@lwca.com and ask how you can join the other residents that benefit from this service. Find out why so many residents rely on Surepay!

FOUNDATION FLASHES

“I’m a numbers person,” JOAN JAJELDSKI stated as she summed up her years of volunteerism in the Leisure World Foundation. She is completing ten years of service doing what she knows, numbers. She moved to Leisure World in August of 2014, and based on her work experience as a bookkeeper, she was recruited to be on the Board. She was first the treasurer, but as a new treasurer was elected, Joan remained on in the assistant treasurer position. Of course, she had to communicate with accounting services, CPAs, and all the Board members. The main duties include depositing money and checks and acknowledging donors with thank you notes.

by Ruth Pechmann

Joan enjoys “helping, and to provide what people need” in their work. She states that, “It’s been an interesting time to see the foundation grow, and it has come a long way.” She also adds that the foundation has done “good work . . . wonderful work!” The foundation can help the community, within and outside of the walls, to raise funds.

The Leisure World Foundation thanks Joan Jajeldski for her dedicated years of service.

JOE ROWBOTHAM and his wife Anne made the parttime move to Leisure World in 1996. Joe is not the type of person who relaxes for too long. He got involved by serving on the Architectural Control Committee (ACC), and he was tournament chairman of the Coyote Run Men’s Club and vice chair of the Capital Improvement Committee (CIC).

Joe served on the Leisure World Board of Directors for seven years. He served in different offices with the Board, including three as President. His years of service included the remodeling of Rec. 2 (pro shop, café, swimming pool and patio area), the remodeling of the fitness center, and a new craft building.

It is no surprise that in January 2020, Joe was awarded the President’s Award for outstanding work in Leisure World at the annual meeting.

A BIG THANK YOU to Joe Rowbotham for serving more than 10 years as a Leisure World Foundation Board member and as President of the Board for several years.

Premier Speaker Series

The first speaker for the 2024-25 Premier Speaker Series was Mesa Mayor John Giles.  He spoke about Mesa’s growth with Leisure World Community growth.  As the outgoing mayor, he also included highlights of the future of Mesa.  There is a lot going on in Mesa and we’re a part of it.

The next speaker will be Mike Buchheit on Wednesday, January 29.  Mike is a photographer who has lived in the Grand Canyon.  He will have a photographic presentation of areas of this American destination.  Of course, the photography club will be displaying their work in the Hopi Pima Room, beginning at 5:30 before the talk at 6:00.

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 longforgotten items and make some cash!

Welcome Back Luau!

Thank you for coming to the Luau. Attendees enjoyed a delicious dinner and a wonderful Polynesian show. Thank you for donated auction items from the following groups: Lapidary Club, Twiddlers Club, LW Recreation, LW Golf, and Ceramics Club. Mark and Ruth Pechman and Barry and Jane Jacobsen also added to the bid items.

And, thanks to Chris Lock, Luau planner and coordinator, and Barry Jacobsen, solicitor of auction items.

See page A14 for photos

Behind the Desk of Clark Collier

Leisure World Budgeting 101

Before diving into a few things about Leisure World’s budget, I want to take a minute and apologize to most of you for doing an article on such a boring topic. However, there are those of you out there that are like me – numbers geeks! This article will definitely appeal to you. So, how do you know if you are a numbers geek? Do any of these apply to you?

• You have a personal budget equipped with line items that would make Fidelity proud.

• You do your own taxes, not because you want to save money, but because you like to.

• You wake up in the middle of the night looking forward to balancing your budget the next day.

• Your idea of a good time is sitting down with a spreadsheet and working numbers.

Yikes! Well, these are all personal examples, so I definitely qualify as a numbers geek.

Why did I tell you this about myself? I know how important it is to have a well thought out budget, especially when dealing with other people’s money! As you probably know already, the budget was just approved by the Board of Directors at the November 20th Open Board Meeting. However, I wanted to give some insight into the kind of work that leads up to the budget approval so you can feel comfortable that your money is not being frivolously spent?

Here’s a little about our budgeting process at Leisure World.

1. The first thing you should know is that Leisure World uses a calendar year as our fiscal year. It has only been this way for a short time, as our previous fiscal year ran from April to March.

2. Leisure World has two budgets that need to be looked at each year. The Operations Budget, which is where personnel costs and routine expenses come from, and we have a Capital Reserve Budget, where

I absolutely love this time of year! Miracle season is upon us! This year has been one of so many changes, successes, lessons, joy, and revelations. We have a tradition in my family that we do not decorate until the weekend after Thanksgiving for Christmas. The Elves on the Shelf arrive on Black Friday and the festivities begin. This is an especially special holiday season for my family as it is the first year that we fully get to be immersed in all the fun of home Christmas decorations. Last year, we moved into our new home the week before Christmas and were able to just get the big tree up. This year, we have eight trees…eight. I told you that I love this time of year!

large purchases that are usually considered assets come from.

3. Being on a calendar fiscal year, our CFO works to create a template for the upcoming year’s Operational Budget in August. This Excel template has a lot of columns, but some of the most important are a 3-year history for each line item, what has been spent YTD, what is projected to be spent by year’s end, and what was budgeted for the current year. In addition, a list of items that may need to be budgeted for is put together for the Capital Reserve Budget. Items that appear on this budget have usually been identified from the Capital Reserve Study.

4. The Excel template and asset list go out to all the department heads, and they are asked to create an Operations Budget that works for their department, as well as look at any big purchases from the list for the Capital Reserve Budget. If they have supervisors in their department, they are looped in as well. Each budget template is well thought out, and the department heads know they will have to justify each line item in future meetings, as well as any Capital Reserve Budget items. This usually takes about two weeks.

5. In mid-September, I start having discussions with our CFO about the draft budgets, items that may be increasing in cost, the economy, you name it. This goes on for about two weeks.

6. By the end of September, our CFO, Assistant Community Manager, and I are meeting with all the department heads to discuss their proposed budgets. These meetings are quite laborious, as we tackle each line in their Operations Budget and talk about Capital Reserve items that may be needed. If a department head is recommending a line item be increased, it must be justified, looking at prior years and other data, so we know if it is indeed a rising cost, or just a “one off” increase this past year.

7. After one or more meetings with each department head, the board treasurer and vice treasurer are brought in to discuss the proposed budgets. This meeting is also long and laborious. The treasurer and vice treasurer ask extensive questions about both the Operations and Capital Reserve Budgets. Further cuts are often made at this point.

8. In mid-October, the budgets so far are sent to the Board Chairs a couple of days before the budget is presented to the entire board in an open meeting. This is a half day meeting that involves discussion and often further cuts, and even sometimes additions.

9. The draft budget is presented in the first work session of November, and there is further input from board members, staff, and residents. It is also presented another time in a separate meeting in the late afternoon to accommodate those still working.

10. The week after the work session, each District Chair has a District Meeting, where the budget is discussed with residents again.

11. The final step is the budget approval, which takes place at the open session in November. Worst case scenario, the budget is not approved, and changes must be made so it can be presented and voted on again in December.

Wow, that was exhausting. Thanks for hanging in there. Please know that there are a lot of people who are concerned with your money, and budgeting is never taken lightly.

6-8 p.m. During this time of year, it is so important to fill the heart with gratitude and praise and worship from our hearts. Its is just something about being in God’s presence and feeling the exchange of worship for peace.

Also, please bring your beautiful grandchildren to the Santa parade on Monday, December 23rd. This is such an awesome family event. It’s nice to have Leisure World filled with laughter and excitement from the kids.

In celebration of Christmas, we will have an “Evening of Worship” on December 4th in the Courtyard from

Get ready to close out the year with “Casino Night” for New Year’s Eve. We are closing out 2024 and welcoming 2025 with open arms and Blackjack! If you have not purchased your tickets, please do not wait! We are almost sold out! Get them before they are gone!

As we prepare our minds and hearts for the new year, I pray that you all will be abundantly blessed in your homes, families and in this community. I pray that you continue to see the faithfulness of God in your life and that you will see the desires of your heart answered.

It has been a pleasure to serve you this past year and I will see you in 2025! I, along with the staff of the Community Affairs departments would like to wish you a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year!

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

COMMUNICATION FROM COMMUNICATIONS

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a happy new year filled with peace, love, and prosperity.

Covers: A Year in Review!

As we close out another year, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our residents who enjoy the paper. Thank you for writing in and providing the bits that bring the paper to life!

We are also grateful for the opportunity to share your life’s moments, inspire, and entertain you. Here’s to another year of stories, together!

2025 Phone Book

We are amending the phone book process, please read... It is time for us to start gathering information for the 2025 Leisure World Phone Book. In the past this process has been less than ideal; so, in hopes of rectifying the headaches of previous years please read the following information.

• All residents with phone numbers in our systems will be included in the phone book UNLESS they turn in Form 6 stating they do NOT want their phone number published. If no form is attached to your account, your name, manor, and phone number will be published in the book.

• We will be accepting forms from now until December 20th

• Phone books will be free of charge

• We will be ordering the books in batches of 200 to avoid excess printing. This means that there may be a brief period when we run out and will be waiting for the next order.

If you have any questions about what is listed above, please contact Carley Cathemer at ccathemer@lwca.com.

Carley’s Catch All

What a year! I cannot wait to dive into the Christmas season, now I no longer need to hide the Christmas tree I put up far too early. Christmas has always been magical but adding my son in the mix, it has brought so much more joy into my home, I am beyond grateful.

I have so many things to say about the 365 days that filled 2024. I have grown in compassion, leadership roles, as a mother, a friend, and a spouse. For the first time in my life, I can truly say I became a better person this year. I have much to be grateful for and many to thank for my progress this year.

My team has done an incredible job, and we have achieved much. I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to work with. Each of you has taught me so much about how to be a better leader and person. I

am so glad I am surrounded by.

To our community: your engagement, feedback, and encouragement remind me why we do what we do. The connections we’ve built this year, both new and ongoing, have strengthened our mission and reaffirmed the importance of what I do.

Here’s to celebrating the achievements of 2024 and embracing the opportunities of 2025. Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a prosperous, fulfilling new year.

Upcoming Programs – East Mesa AAUW

The East Mesa AAUW meets the first Wednesday of each month November – April. At each monthly meeting, we invite a speaker from the community to inform our members on community programs; many of them challenge our members to become more involved in the community they live in.

In November, the Assistance League gave a presentation on community programs and how they benefit youth and adults within our community. Volunteer opportunities were presented.

In December, we will have Renee Parker, Director of Community Partnerships with the Mesa Public Schools. Our goal is to partner with the Mesa Public Schools to become more involved with STEM programs. We hope to develop a partnership with a specific elementary school to give our members an opportunity to impact future generations.

In January, we will discuss important public policy issues that impact our lives in the state of Arizona. Speaking will be the Arizona State AAUW Public Policy chairs – Betsy Flaten and Beverly Byrd, both members of our local branch. They will provide valuable information on how we can be involved in issues that affect our daily lives.

In February, we will have a presentation by Deborah Hansen – Writing our Life Stories. Deborah is a member of the Northwest Valley AAUW, and co-chair of the We Made History! Project. The project aims to elicit, document, share and archive priceless stories of actions taken by community members to improve the lives of women and girls, including themselves. This is a multi-year project tied to the two hundred fiftieth anniversary of the United States in 2026. In addition, this project will tie in with a writing group in our local branch.

In March, we will have a unique program – the History of Women and Quilts, presented by Penny Boese of Chandler, Arizona. She will present historic quilts and modern quilts and highlight the power of this art form to tell stories. Look for more information in the February Leisure World newspaper.

Again, we invite all women in Leisure World to become involved in AAUW. Since 1881, our organization has been empowering women. For more information contact Elaine Prom, Membership Chair (480) 2070655 or Janice Dill, President (920) 860-0638.

Violet Larney Trust Benefits Community Organizations

The East Mesa branch of AAUW (American Association of University Women) has been endowed with a substantial gift through the Violet Larney Trust. The trust allows us to fund twelve scholars each year. In addition, funds are available to support community organizations in the East Valley. In Spring, 2024, we awarded four grants, totaling $12,500 to four different 501c3 community organizations.

Mesa Public Schools Foundation – The foundation was given $5,000 for their Summer Stick 2 Reading Program. The program distributed books to kids on summer break. Our AAUW group found out about the program from one of our members, Marcie Hutchinson, President of the Mesa School Board. The

program helps keep kids hooked on reading over the summer and provides them with free lunch in addition to books.

Assistance League of the East Valley – This vital organization was given $2,500. Assistance League of East Valley is a nonprofit, charitable organization committed to volunteer service in the community. Assistance League of East Valley works with community agencies and schools to provide help to children and adults in need. Their programs include Operation School Bell , Assault Survivor Kits , Adult Day Care Socials, Scholarships, and Share Our Spare.

United Food Bank – This organization was given $2,500. United Food Bank believes in the power of unity to create food security in our community. They are committed to serving those in need and bringing together individuals, businesses, and communities to make a meaningful impact on food insecurity. Through their collaborative efforts, they strive to ensure that no

one in our community goes hungry. Their goal is to create a world where everyone has access to nutritious food, and together, they can make a difference, one meal at a time. They work with more than 150 sites, including food pantries and after school meal programs.

Native American Fatherhood and Families Association –This organization was given $2,500. This organization’s mission is to strengthen, keep, and reunite families by responsibly involving fathers and mothers in the lives of their children, families and communities. Their programs help to strengthen families.

AAUW promotes equity for women, education and self-development over the life span, and positive societal change. Since 1881, AAUW has been breaking down barriers for women in education, in the workplace, and in our communities — locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. Our goal is to advance equity for all women and girls. Join us at our next meeting – Wednesday, December 4, 1:00 p.m. in the Card Room at Rec. 1.

AAUW Celebrates Scholars Becoming Mentors!

By Xenia Johnston Scholarship Chair

I am incredibly proud to have been part of this remarkable journey. Three of our scholars have been mentored and have now successfully graduated. They are giving back to our organization. This year they are embracing the role of mentors to the next generation of incoming scholars. I have invited each of them to share “what being a mentor means to them.” Here are their thoughts in their own words.

Amanda Prengel – Business Graduate:

have been invaluable during my college years. She not only believed in me but helped me gain confidence as I navigated the ups and downs of my studies. I hope to carry forward that same spirit of encouragement and care with my mentee, continuing the cycle of women supporting each other through every stage of life.

Liliana Simpson – Nursing

own journey, and contribute to their growth is both an honor and a privilege. Being a mentor is not just about imparting knowledge but also about fostering a supportive relationship that encourages and inspires. I am eager to embrace this role and make a meaningful impact, knowing how crucial mentorship can be in shaping someone’s path and helping them realize their full potential.

Becoming a mentor is a deeply meaningful step in my journey, especially as I’ve recently graduated and am now transitioning into my career in accounting. I am honored to support my mentee, Hodon, who is beginning her path in microbiology. This mentorship program is more than just providing guidance — it’s about creating a space for growth, sharing experiences, and helping her navigate the exciting yet challenging journey ahead. After our first introduction, I was deeply inspired by her story and how it built her mindset towards helping others. I look forward to offering insights, sharing my own lessons learned, and being a source of encouragement as she steps into this next phase of her academic and personal development.

I’d also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my own mentor, Diana Kilby, whose wisdom and support

As a student, I’ve come to realize just how crucial mentors are in shaping our academic and professional journeys. A mentor is more than just an advisor; they are a guide, a sounding board, and a source of invaluable experience and wisdom. They provide personalized support, help us navigate complex decisions, and offer encouragement when we face challenges. Having a mentor means having someone who believes in our potential, helps us set realistic goals, and provides feedback that helps us grow. Their insights and advice are instrumental in helping us understand our strengths and areas for improvement, ultimately steering us toward success and helping us build confidence in our abilities.

I feel incredibly blessed and thankful for the opportunity to become a mentor; it’s a role that fills me with immense excitement and purpose. Knowing that I can offer guidance and support to someone else, just as others have done for me, is truly rewarding. The chance to share my experiences, help someone navigate their

Alex Coon – Education

Being a mentor for the American Association of University Women is a way for me to give back to the organization that has given me so much.

I have been with AAUW since 2018 and have continued to be involved as an alumnus and now as a mentor. This is an opportunity for me to use the knowledge I have gleaned as a college student to guide a new student through their educational journey.

My mentee, Isabella, is a freshman at Arizona State University this year. We have much in common and are a good fit for each other. Her major is Psychology, while my field of interest is adolescent behavior. We learned during our first meeting that the two go handin-hand. I am looking forward to forming a lasting relationship with Isabella, as I have with my long-time mentor, Marje Perkins. I was very honored to be asked to take on this role and look forward to making my own positive impact on the community that has made such an impact on me.

Leisure World Lions Club We Serve

Lion's Flag Project

Time to show Leisure World’s incredible American patriotism by securing a flag from L.W. LIONS CLUB to be erected in front of your manor. The purchased flags will fly for six holidays in 2025: Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Flag Day, 4th of July, Labor Day and Veterans Day.

Revisions to the Lion’s Flag Project:

• New Gmail Address- To order a flag application from the computer, express concerns, or to contact Lions Club, email lwlionsflags@gmail.com

• No two-year program

•  Price $40 for 2025 only

• Additional flags, same manor only, $20 each

• Flag applications will be available throughout the L.W. Community (working on a drop box)

• Complete applications are mailed to:  Leisure World Lions Club PO BOX 6905, Mesa, AZ, 85216 (yes, it really is 85216) Include payment of $40, covering only the 2025 physical year (January 2025-January 2026).

The Lion Bob Hutton “Fly the Flag” program is a major fundraiser for our club, providing funds to help us serve others as needed. Thank you for supporting the Leisure World Lions.

Food and cash collections for New Hope Community center

• Cash: approximately $1,500

• Food: four packed vehicles of food were donated to New Hope to help the homeless.

“Leisure World Lions Club Food Drive October 19th!  We jam packed 4 vehicles with food and received $1500 from community residents. Their generosity was awesome!!  Great day helping the New Hope Community Center!” ~Lion Kathy Murray

Thank you, Lion Kathy Murray, for leading the volunteers to this helpful project.

Winter Coat Collection

Winter Coat collection for Jefferson Elementary School, a title one school.

• 157 coats collected

• 14 backpacks

• 5 pairs of gloves

Thank you, Lion Becky Moltz, for creating this project, to various volunteers, and, of course, all Leisure World residents.

WE SERVE LION Renee Menard  Communications Director

By Sue De Carlo

Library Hours – 8:00 am to 10:00 pm, 7 days each week

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 – Book and Dagger (How scholars and librarians became unlikely spies in WWII) by Elyse Graham. In this book we learn how US campuses became the source of personnel for the OSS (precursor to the CIA) spy network created by the government after the disaster at Pearl Harbor. The US was caught short because we had no spies and no system for gathering intelligence. This very well researched book is chock full of fascinating spy tactics, little known historical facts about the invention of modern spy craft and thrilling stories of actual professors and librarians that became the spies who helped us win the war. 68% of readers rated it 4 or 5 stars.

to own all the overland lines in the territory. There are plenty of ambushes and shootouts. The drama involves blue coats, the Lakota Sioux and Comanche as well as sheriff’s, gun slingers and dance hall girls. Life on the wild frontier is well drawn and we get to know the different types of people who might have lived in the towns of Larramie and Cheyenne. 90% of readers rated it 4 or 5 stars.

Mystery – The Dark Wives (A Vera Stanhope Novel) by Ann Cleeves – Set in Northumberland England this tale involves murders, missing teenagers, legend and folklore and of course, DI Vera Stanhope to figure it all out. 86% of readers rated it 4 or 5 stars.

Forensic Mystery – The

by

- In this story forensic pathologist Dr.

Muller and serial killer Jeremy Rose again follow twisted paths of terror building in suspense to the inevitable ending. Readers found the story to be “dark, gripping, tense and hard to put down”. 74% rated 4 or 5 stars.

Western – Dry Road to Nowhere (The Frontier Overland Company) by William W. Johnstone & J.A. Johnstone. This story takes place in Wyoming Territory after the civil war but well before the pacification of native tribes in the area. Former Texas Ranger Butch Keeling and his friend Tucker Cobb are co-owners of a stagecoach which is the target of a bully who wants

LP Historical Fiction – Into the Starlight by Amanda Cabot- (Book 3 of the Secrets of Sweetwater series). Our heroine Joanna returns from a year in Europe to find that Sweetwater no longer feels like home. This beautifully written romance has intrigue and mystery and appealing, well drawn characters. 83% rated it 4 or 5 stars.

RP Fiction – The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza. Set in modern-day Sicily, the story contains equal parts of riveting mystery and everyday family life. The reader is presented with chefs and the food they cook, mafia goons and the chaos they create and the everpresent complications of different personalities living together in a small town. Then an American appears searching for her family’s roots. I found the characters to be engaging, and the story unfolded at a good pace. 75% of readers rated it 4 or 5 stars.

LP

RP

Butcher Game

Alaina Urquhart

Wren

Halloween Street Dance

A

Spooktacular L.W. Halloween

On October 31st, you may have noticed Raggedy Ann, ghouls, a witch or two, Beetle Juice, some skeletons, and even Snoopy’s crew around Leisure World! Our employees had a frightfully good time dressing in their scariest and silliest costumes, enjoying the Halloween atmosphere.

Leisure World Helpers Bring Christmas Joy to Area Children

Submitted by Kaye West

For at least the last twenty-one years, members of the Leisure World Woodshop and Quilt Clubs have collaborated to make and distribute toys to some children in the community whose holiday season is brighter because of their efforts!

Throughout the year, Charlie Dyck (coordinator), Gale Lane, and Dennis O’Grady have been busy in the woodshop sculpting and painting several models

of “Cars for Kids,” largely from donated two-by-four material.

Ira Leibowitz (coordinator), Vince Dermont, Bill Mouthrop, and Mike Sweador have crafted and assembled several dozen doll cradles, and Leisure Word Quilters have fashioned linens for them.

Mary Johnson made the mattress/ pillow sets, and Marie Sharkey served the receiving blankets. Prior to their deaths, Lucretia Smith and Helen Moseley pieced quilt tops which Kaye West (coordinator) supplemented and then quilted and bound. Linda Faber and Mary Ann Fanning purchased dolls this year, and Linda constructed additional doll clothes to complete “Cradles for Kids.”

Woodshop members then donated the toys to various organizations to further distribute to disadvantaged children in the Valley for Christmas. Receiving organizations include the Mesa Police Department, the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots, East Mesa Baptist Church, and the Navajo Indian Reservation.

In addition to the toys, Leisure World Quilters annually donate items such as quilts, clothing protectors, and fidget blankets to worthy charitable organizations: Arizona Sunshine Angels, Family Promise, Jacob’s Mission, ReHoming Veterans, San Carlos Apache Reservation, and Silver Creek Memory Care. They also donated two Quilts of Valor which were awarded to Veterans as well as doggie pillows (or “puppy pads”), stuffed with otherwise unusable quilt scraps, which they gave to Follow Your Heart Animal Shelter.

All those interested in participating in these activities throughout the year are invited to join the Woodshop or Quilt Club and/or contact a coordinator to volunteer assistance. Club members also express gratitude for those who donated materials and for purchases at the semi-annual arts and crafts fairs which fund many charitable endeavors!

Photos from the L.W. Foundation's Welcome Back Luau

Seated are Vince Dermont and Dennis O’Grady (holding a car) and standing left to right: Mike Sweador, Gayle Lane, Ira Leibowitz, Bill Mouthrop, and Charlie Dyck (holding a car) with a sample doll cradle in the foreground.

Pictured from left to right are Kaye West, Mary Johnson, Linda Faber, and MaryAnn Fanning showing a sample of linens, extra clothing, and a “Cradle for Kids” ready for donation.

Holiday Traditions!

Holiday traditions! Our first annual Thanksgiving holiday tradition dinner is in the books! It was a wonderful event enjoyed by over 300 people! I am so overwhelmed at the amount of interest this idea had to the wonderful residents of Leisure world. Again, I say, the volunteers and donations that people gave were unbelievable! I had about 50 volunteers helping with this dream event. The logistics were amazing, how everyone worked together to make this happen. Hopefully, God willing, I can do this for the next many years.

The next event will be Easter, so plan ahead. I will still need volunteers as well as donations and people to come and have dinner. What I do need to know is would people rather have a ham dinner or a roasted pork loin dinner? That information I would like to have emailed to me whenever you can. My email is cheflamotte@gmail.com you can also tell me ahead of time that you want to volunteer for Easter. The sooner I put it all on paper, the sooner I know it will happen!

Retiring from my catering chef job has given me a new ministry here in Leisure World to do special dinners for

my special guests who are my neighbors. It makes me feel honored and blessed to do this. Using the talents I was given, even in retirement, makes me stay young. I hope you all get to use your talents as long as you are able! It’s quite a blessing I feel!

I will have pictures next month of our first holiday tradition dinner. Look forward to seeing them! What an amazing village to come together to make holiday traditions really work!

By Kaye West and Larry Caves

Let’s Cha Cha! Understanding How Components Alter a Dance Rhythm

Musicians are constantly making changes to how they play music, “pushing the envelope” to create novel sounds. That is precisely what Cuban band leader Enrique Jorrin did in the 1950’s when he substituted the fourth note in a measure (one quarter note) with two quick (eighth) notes which bring three changes of weight very close together (on beats 4/&, 1). When danced, feet made a shuffling sound on the floor (dancers take a change of weight each time they hear a beat) creating a “cha/cha, cha” sound, so that was the original name for this new rhythm! Now it is commonly shortened to Cha Cha or even Cha. It is an excellent example of how various components are substituted for others to create new patterns (figures) or entire new rhythms!

This idea was introduced previously in this series related to the Single Swing pattern where each of the slow counts in the Slow, Slow, Quick, Quick pattern (four changes of weight) was substituted for a Chasse´(also called a triple step since there are three changes of weight) creating eight changes of weight in the swing pattern called East Coast Swing or Triple Swing (which Bill and Carol Goss are teaching this fall) (See home.csulb.edu/~kwest > Walk In Dance Out > Lesson 4).

In contrast, Cha Cha substitutes just one slow count for a triple step, resulting in five changes of weight requiring four counts of music (or one measure). While different styles of Cha Cha use different counts for the Chasse´, in social dancing it does not matter when the dancers include it. Cha Cha has a rhythm of Quick, Quick, Quick/ and, Quick and for purposes here, the Chasse´ is described as occurring on beats three and four. Note that the count divided in half uses the word “and” to indicate the middle of the count or a beat divided equally in two halves.

To dance this rhythm, it is first necessary to master the timing pattern. Start with a Side Chasse´ (a very useful component) which can be danced with one Chasse´ following another to fill one measure:

1 & 2 & 3 & 4 & Side L Close R Side L Side R Close L Side R

Notice that the one count and the three count are each divided in half, so two changes of weight occur during each of those counts, and there is just one change of weight on counts two and four. Also note that the first Chasse´ moves in one direction and the second one moves in the opposite direction. To become accustomed to this component and to remain on a foot an accurate amount of time, first count repeatedly 1/&, 2/&, 3/&, 4/&; 1/&, 2/&, 3/&, 4/& with equivalent intervals between each word. Then continue to count aloud in that manner and add a clap and/or march in place on each of the following bold words and continue to orally count but do not clap or change weight on the two words in plain text: 1/and, 2/ and, 3/and, 4/and; 1/and, 2/and, 3/and, 4/and; etc.

Notice that there are two sets of “triples” (three changes of weight) in each of the four counts. Also notice that the second Chasse´ begins with the opposite foot because there was an odd number of changes of weight in the first one. Both Lead and Follow can practice simultaneously, especially if they both face the same direction. When dancers face one another, the Lead begins with the left foot (as when starting on count 1) and the Follow begins with the right (as when starting on count 3).

Applying the Side Chasse´ (Triple Step) in Cha Cha Figures

The Cha Cha rhythm involves measures with two Quicks and one Chasse´ (five changes of weight) so one measure begins with one foot (Lead’s left and Follow’s right) and the next measure begins with the opposite foot. Because of this, frequently in social dancing one pattern is repeated immediately so that the third measure would again begin with the Lead’s left foot and Follow’s right using a different figure. This also gives dancers a second chance to harmonize their movements.

Initially dancers might dance the following figures in two-handed (“Low Butterfly”) position, though if dancers are comfortable dancing with someone in close proximity, the first three figures below may also be done in Closed Position.

(1) Cha Cha Basic

Using the American style Cha Cha Basic, this pattern requires two measures. The Lead’s steps are Rock Forward, Recover, Side Chasse´ Left; Rock Back, Recover, Side Chasse´ Right. Follow’s steps are Rock Back, Recover, Side Chasse´ Right; Rock Forward, Recover, Side Chasse´ Left. Notice that the Lead’s second measure is identical to the Follow’s first measure and vice versa.

(2) Shoulder to Shoulder (aka “Outside Break,” “Offset Break,” or “Parallel Break”) This figure, described for the Lead, varies only slightly from the above. It requires the dancer to step forward outside of Partner’s foot instead of stepping between her feet. The Follow steps back.

Shoulder to Shoulder 1 2 3 & 4

Beginning w/ L Foot

Beginning w/ R Foot

Note that the beats in columns 1, 2, and 4 are all Quicks (quarter beats) and count 3 is divided in two, each half taking half the time of a quarter beat. As a dancer Rocks back, s/he “creates space” for the partner “to fill” by Rocking forward. When they stand offset so their right foot points between their partner’s feet, they don’t step on toes! Recall that in a Rock step the other foot remains approximately in place to easily regain weight on it on the next count.

Rock Forward L Outside Partner’s L Foot (R in place)

Rock Forward R Outside Partner’s R Foot (L in place)

L to face partner

As dancers realize that the upper body can rotate one way and the lower body another (with a twisting sensation at the waist), they can rotate their upper body (counterclockwise when stepping forward with the left foot and clockwise when stepping forward with the right foot) which allows them to look at their partner in the Rock step. They return their bodies to neutral on the Recover.

(3) This pattern can be modified as a Back Shoulder to Shoulder in which the Lead Rocks back (so the Follow Rocks forward), essentially swapping roles from the Shoulder to Shoulder described above.

(4) New Yorker (aka “New York” or “Cross Over Break”)

& 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

Beginning w/L Foot (Swivel ¼ RF on R foot)

Beginning w/R Foot

(Swivel ¼ LF on L foot)

Rock forward on L (R foot in place)

Rock forward on R (L foot in place)

Recover on R (Turn ¼ LF to face partner

on L (Turn ¼ RF to face partner)

R

L

Starting facing each other, both dancers Rock forward. Note that half beats are depicted to identify movement occurring between changes of weight in parentheses and weight changes are underlined (which name a “shorthand description” of the figure). The swivel prior to the first step is actually done at the end of the fourth beat of the previous measure so that the dancer can step forward on count one as the beat is heard. In the Recover, one recovers weight back on the first part of the beat and on the second half of the beat turns to face partner. Notice that when turning to step forward the foot swivels on the floor; when turning back to face partner, the foot does not need to swivel because of the construction of human legs.

(5) Hand to Hand (aka “5th Position Break” or “Fallaway Break”)

& 1 & 2 & 3 & 4 &

Beginning w/L Foot

(Swivel ¼ LF on R foot)

Beginning w/R Foot

(Swivel ¼ RF on L foot)

Rock back on L (R foot in place)

Rock Back on R (L foot in place)

Recover on R (Turn ¼ RF to face partner

on L (Turn ¼ LF to face partner)

This pattern can be thought of as the reverse of the New Yorker (notice the difference?). The timing is the same as are several of the steps. The difference is in the direction of the initial swivel and whether the Rock is forward or back (both partners do the same). In this figure, both when turning to Rock back as well as turning to face partner, the foot swivels on the floor.

Modifying Above Figures for Rumba

Many Cha Cha figures and Rumba figures are similar. To change the above figures to the Rumba timing, simply substitute the component of the Chasse´ (Side/Close, Side) with one slow Side step (taking counts 3 and 4)! For example, one measure of the Basic would be Rock, Recover, Side (Hold),

Congratulations! Using the concept of substituting components you have learned not only five Cha Cha figures described above but also five Rumba figures! Practice each one individually to become comfortable with the pattern and then mix them up to add variety to your dancing pleasure! Happy dancing!

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

By Ronda Gates

Your Personal Anti-Stress Kit

The holiday season and all the joy and/or pain that comes with it is here again! For some of us, a crowded calendar is merely the underpinnings of unexpected life events. Whether it’s illness, separation, job loss, a change in health status or other expectations, life events often force us to deal with unexpected stress. Moreover, this highly charged time of year triggers expectations of ourselves and others—exacerbating the stress that’s inevitable in life. And, when the day-to-day stresses of life add up, some of us are thrown completely off course. It may seem like these small stresses are unavoidable, but the stresses aren’t the problem. It’s how we manage the little ones that can foster our ability to handle a major crisis rationally.

When stressed, our bodies respond with a “fight or flight” response. This is a physiological reaction when the body perceives a threat or harmful event and responds by releasing hormones and neurotransmitters (chemicals stored throughout our body) to prepare us to fight or flee from a real or perceived “attacker.” Your heart rate and breathing quicken. If you are super stressed, you may start to perspire, and if you look in the mirror, you discover the pupils in your eyes are dilated. For many of us, this response is hard to shut off. However, to function efficiently it is important to learn how to decrease your stress levels and cope with inevitable stresses effectively.

Here are some tips that can help you with this process.

1. Determine Your Stress Level

The first step in managing stress is to identify its intensity. At this moment, how would you rate the amount of stress in your life on a scale of 1 (no stress) – 10 (extreme stress)? To assess this, you should ask yourself some of the following questions:

1. Am I more tense, anxious, depressed, or exhausted than usual?

2. Do I lose control of my emotions easily?

3. Do I feel okay one day and awful the next?

4. Have I been getting ill more often?

5. Does it take real effort to workout or have I put off the gym altogether?

6. Is my concentration lacking?

7. Do I feel lost and out of control?

If you gave yourself a rating from 10 to 20, congratulations! It seems that you have a healthy understanding and appreciation for the stress in your life. Keep it up! Continue to eat properly, exercise regularly, and take time for yourself. Consider trying meditation, yoga, or tai chi to balance your mind and body.

If you gave yourself a rating from 21 – 30, don’t ignore the signals. Although your stress level is average, with some changes, you could reduce your stress even further.

If you gave yourself a rating over 30, it’s time to take immediate action. Your stress levels are too high. This likely means you’re in a constant state of anxiety, which can wreak havoc on your body, mind, and spirit.

2. Get Organized

Often, we experience stress due to a lack of organization in the responsibilities required of our lives. By taking the time to get organized, it becomes easier to handle multiple events in your life with ease. For example, if your workout is early in the morning, organize your closet. Knowing where you can find your favorite shoes, sweaters, and workout gear will allow you to start your day without feeling panicked. When you’re organized, you can lie in bed for a bit longer and reflect positively on the day ahead or get a few extra minutes of shuteye.

3. Find Different Solutions to Everyday Stresses

If everyday occurrences such as a broken photocopier at work, a traffic jam, or arguing kids on a playground “snowball” (admittedly, no snowballs in Leisure World) into major annoyances, it’s time to change the way you respond. Instead of reacting right away, take a moment. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and relax. Remember, there are certain events that we can control and many more that we cannot manage. If you can, changing your environment for a moment or simply taking a walk can make the best use of your time to re-center.

4. Control Your Work Environment the Best You Can

What if you aren’t retired and are still putting in the time necessary to get a job done? If pressures from your boss and looming deadlines are starting to get to you, it’s time to develop a strategy to manage your stress at work. Biting off more than you can chew will cause everything you need to manage—especially if you are prone to underpromise or over-deliver.

Since uninterrupted work time is more productive, wherever you work, take time to close your door, turn off your phone, and ignore your e-mail. If you have too much to handle and your workload keeps piling up, maybe it’s time to sit down and have a talk with

the boss. Explain your needs and suggest more realistic deadlines.

5. Work to Manage Major Stresses

Major stresses such as an illness in your family can seem almost too much to bear. Remember, it’s okay to be sad and upset. Your loss, no matter how great, cannot be compared to anyone else’s. Don’t try to fight the reality of the situation, but rather work to manage it. Create or join an emotional support group, Sharing your experiences with others who have gone through similar situations can be helpful. Take time for yourself. Spend time with those who are important to you. Do things you enjoy doing and say no to things that you don’t. Most importantly don’t spend time getting involved in groups where you have no control!

6. Exercise

The best way to manage all types of stress is to exercise. Exercise boosts the immune system, improves sleep, increases serotonin (a feel-good hormone), and helps you deal with the normal ups and downs of life. Many members in fitness classes at my dance studio used regular exercise to help cope with family tragedies. Research reveals that exercise can help you deal with the pain of loss when nothing else seems to work. If you haven’t exercised before, start slowly and listen to your body. For example, if you think that the loud music in a fitness center will only increase your stress, opt for a gentler form of exercise. Try yoga, pilates, meditation, stretching classes, or take a walk in the park. It’s stunning how any change of pace that includes some fresh air can clear your head.

So, the next time you feel like you can’t possibly take another upset in your life, pull out your personal antistress kit and get moving! It’s guaranteed that, at least for the moment, you will feel 100% better.

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

My Story of Four Kilo Lima

In 1989, a friend won the bid for 10 trainer planes from a bankruptcy sale. I bought four of them that had been stripped of parts by the flying school to keep their other planes flying before they went out of business. My friend had no use for them. I chose N704KL, a Cessna 150, to rebuild, as it was the one most intact. I took parts from the other three, as well as other sources during the rebuilding process.

The first task was to transport them to my home in Palmer, AK, from Anchorage International Airport.

I grew up on a farm and farmed for a while, so I learned how to repair and fix machinery. To me, an airplane is another machine. So, under the guidance of my brother-in-law, an AI, I began the process of rebuilding 4KL. I completely dismantled it and began the rebuild process. I found another wrecked C150 that had landing gears wiped out when the owner was trying to land on a beach at Montaque Island, AK. I had the engine majored, and it proved to be very strong and reliable. I found it enjoyable and rewarding looking for parts that were available and affordable. I found a good used King KX 170B Radio while visiting my hometown in Nebraska.

That winter, I put the fuselage in my garage and began working on it nightly. By April, it was ready to be assembled. My brother-in-law came and helped me. We towed it from my house to the Palmer Airport (PAAQ). Once we had it all assembled and double checked everything, we fueled it up and did a test flight. Everything checked out perfectly, except it tended to fly one wing low. We made the adjustment and had it flying straight and level with no hands on the controls. It was always a joy to fly.

I was very lucky, because my wife likes to fly. I must give her credit for putting up with all the time I was looking for parts and working on the plane in the garage. However, when I needed her parking space in the garage for a couple of days, she told me if I needed more days, I would have to choose her or the plane (Alaska winters are cold).

scheme, so both planes looked alike. My brother-inlaw and I would fly together in formation. One time, we went to Talkeetna (PATK), and as we were taxing to the tie down area, the people at the FSS referred to us as the Bobbsey Twins. Eventually, 4VT was sold to a flying school in Palmer, AK. It is now owned and active with a flight school in Naples, FL. My 4KL was with a flight school at Birchwood Airport (PABV), AK, and is now a derelict and deregistered at Bethel, AK.

One of the other planes was a Cessna 150, N704VT. We rebuilt that plane, and it had the same paint

I flew 4KL over 1,000 hours before selling it. We flew it all over Alaska to go salmon and halibut fishing as well as moose and caribou hunting. We landed on many of Alaska’s remote and unimproved airstrips. We flew from Palmer, our home, over the Alcan Highway to Michigan, Nebraska, and Missouri two times. I had “Palmer ALASKA” in 4-inch black letters at the top of the vertical stabilizer. Several

times, people in the FSS or at the airports in the lower 48 would ask if I really flew a Cessna 150 with one radio from Alaska. They couldn’t imagine that.

My 4KL was my most favorite plane out of all that I’ve owned and flown. It has also given us many wonderful memories as well as aerial and video pictures. I have given many people sightseeing rides over the beautiful Knik Glacier, 30 miles east of Palmer, AK. My 4KL was always a joy to fly. It was reliable and strong and never once failed mechanically or in any other way.

A Special Christmas (Moments of our life)

At last, Christmas day had finally arrived! My hubby and I were finishing up wrapping our gifts, looking forward to our family get-together this year. My hubby’s parents had invited all of us to celebrate at their house. Outside, the weather looked bleak, and the night before, it had been snowing heavily. Huge drifts of snow/ice had already begun to pile up.

Our car was old and cold, and my hubby persevered over and over again, cranking the engine, trying to get it started while we shivered. Finally, at last, the car started, and we were on our way!

We had only gone a few miles toward our destination when it happened! Our car engine suddenly started sputtering and shaking, and then it just conked out! And to our dismay, there was still some distance to go (no cellphones then).

My hubby said he knew a shortcut across a large field that led to his parents’ house. I looked across the field for some kind of movement. It was dark and eerily quiet, and it felt as if time was standing still.

We knew big mounds of snow were ahead of us, but nevertheless, clutching our bags and gifts, we ventured forward into the unknown.

Yes, the snow was deep, and I found myself struggling to balance one foot in front of the other. My poor feet were so cold. They felt like a pair of icicles looking for a way out of the freezer (I was so happy I had thought to wear boots and not my normal high-heeled shoes)!

It was a long, cold, arduous journey, but when we finally spotted his parents’ house, it was like experiencing joy!

We had finally made it!

Hubby’s father was already waiting for us at the front door. Jokingly, he said, “You two finally got here!” Then, looking around surprised, he asked, “Where is your car?”

Hubby and I glanced at each other but said nothing (His parents had no idea what we had just gone through to get there).

That Christmas was one of the special "Moments of our Life.”

H. R. McClellan 1685

December Upcoming Movies & Classics

By: Dian A. Prince

December 6: The Return (R)

After 20 years away, Odysseus decides to come back. The king has finally returned home, but much has changed in his kingdom since he left to fight in the Trojan War.

December 13: All We Imagine as Light (subtitled) (NR)

The light, lives, and textures of contemporary, working-class Mumbai are explored and celebrated, centering on two roommates who also work together in a city hospital. The film focuses on moments of connection and heartache, hope and disappointment. It is a soulful study of the transformative power of friendship and sisterhood.

December 20: Homestead (NR)

A nuclear bomb is detonated in Los Angeles, and the nation devolves into unprecedented chaos. Ex-Green Beret Jeff Ericksson and his family escape to The Homestead, an eccentric prepper’s fortress nestled in the mountains. How long can a group resist both the dangers of nature and the bloodshed at their doorstep?

December 20: Mufasa (PG)

Rafiki relays the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature antics. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka, setting in motion an expansive journey of a group of misfits searching for their destiny.

December 25: Babygirl (NR)

Despite the risk and prejudices, a successful CEO begins an illicit affair with her much younger intern.

December 25: A Complete Unknown (NR)

An enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives in the West Village in the early 1960s with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music. Timothee Chalamet stars and sings as Bob Dylan in this electric true story behind the rise of one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in history.

Harkins Tuesday Night Classics:

December 3: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

December 10: The Polar Express

December 17: Elf

December 24: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Merry Main Street Mesa, AZ

Santa will swing by Merry Main Street for free visits at The Post (26 N. Macdonald)! Bring your phone or camera for a photo November 29th– Santa starts his visits after the Tree Lighting program. He will be available for wishes 6:15 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

November 30 – December 23

• Fridays & Saturdays: 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

• Sundays: 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

December 24

• 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Free Santa Visits!

Gilbert Water Tower Holiday Lighting

December 2, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Water Tower Plaza 45 W Page Ave, Gilbert, AZ, 85233.

Get into the holiday spirit at Gilbert’s annual Water Tower Holiday Lighting at the Water Tower Plaza. This event will include free family activities, letters to Santa, food and drinks, live music, and more.

Pancake Breakfast at Falcon Field Airport

Hosted by Aviation Explorer Post 352 at Falcon Field Airport! It will be held 8:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. Saturday, December 7, in the historic World War II hangar, 4626 E. Fighter Aces Drive.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, orange juice and coffee! Suggested donation is $10 per plate.

Proceeds of the pancake breakfasts support the community service activities of the Aviation Explorers. The mission of Aviation Explorer Post 352 is to provide young people ages 14-20 with practical opportunities to explore aviation for fun and as a potential career. Members learn about aviation careers and may learn to fly the post’s two aircraft based at Falcon Field Airport. The group is led by adult volunteers who have a passion for aviation and giving back to youth.

For more than four decades, the lighting of the Mesa Arizona Temple gardens has been a favorite holiday tradition in the Valley. The free event features thousands of twinkling lights and a variety of displays designed to tell the story of Christ’s birth, including a large outdoor crèche underneath a lighted star and other Biblical vignettes, including a shepherd’s field, Mary and Joseph figurines, the prophet Isaiah, and three lighted wise men with their camels. Since 1979, this has become one of the largest Christmas lighting displays in the Southwest, recently drawing over a million visitors. The lights are on every night, 5 p.m. -10 p.m., from Friday, Nov. 29, through Monday, Dec. 30, on the north lawn of the Mesa Arizona Temple, 101 S. LeSueur, in downtown Mesa. Free parking is available nearby.

A unique display of more than 100 nativities from around the world is also hosted inside the Mesa Temple Visitors’ Center, 455 E. Main (across the street from the Mesa Arizona Temple). The event is free and open 5 p.m. -10 p.m. from Nov. 29 to Dec. 30, and 11 a.m. -1 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays during those dates. For more information, call 480-964-7164 or visit www.mesatemple.org

“A Visit from St. Nicholas” by Clement Clarke

‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house

Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her ’kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap, When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below, When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer, With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;

“Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!”...

The Cafe Releases the New Fall Menu!

So up s & Salads

Cobb Salad

$8.00

Our house dinner salad with bacon, sliced boiled eggs, diced tomatoes & corn

Chef Salad

$8.00

Turkey, ham, Swiss cheese, bacon, and hard-boiled egg over dinner salad

Taco Salad

$9.00

Freshly fried taco bowl filled with salad, kidney beans, cheddar cheese & taco meat; Topped with diced tomatoes, diced onions & jalapeño peppers; our salsa & sour cream served on the side

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

$8.00

Lettuce, parmesan cheese, grilled chicken and homemade croutons; Caesar dressing served on the side

Dinner Salad

$6.00

Lettuce salad mix with cucumber, tomatoes, cheese, & homemade croutons (add a scoop of tuna salad or chicken for an extra $3.00)

Soup of the Day

$4.00

No canned soup here; freshly made goodness – ask what we have today

Cup of New England Clam Chowder

$6.00 Creamy & thick (only available on Fridays)

Rendezvous Café is operated by COPA Health, powered by MARC Community resources and partners in recovery. On the web at copahealth.org

Please note the following dates as the Rendezvous Cafe will be closed.

• November 28th and the 29th.

• Closing at 12:00 p.m. on December the 24th.

• December 25th, 26th, and 27th.

• January 1st.

• January 3rd – subject to change dependent on sign ups.

By M Beatrice

The December Art Chapter: Inspiration

I find Photography and Art Shows totally inspiring. The last show at Leisure World was just this past November 16. Indeed, I believe it was inspiring. I didn’t exactly run for my paint and brushes on the 17th, but my mind started churning. I’m sure some of this mind churning happened to some of you artists who plan to enter the March Art Show.

Ideas. Inspiration. It doesn’t take much. Walk around Leisure World. Observe a grandchild. Examine a twig. Put a Santa costume on your pet. You are inspired!

Observe the following three masterpieces. What inspired the artist to create these?

The Potato Eaters is the first one, a Vincent van Gogh. Inspiration? Vincent was angry with his brother’s

criticism of his current work! His rebellious nature led him to paint what he thought was a radical work, and it would ‘irk’ his brother, so he painted some peasants from the area. His brother didn’t approve of the work, but many in the world do!

The second one is a work by Leonid Afremov.

NOVEMBER FEATURED ARTIST

Mary Opat

Submitted by Mary Opat

I moved to Leisure World nearly a year and a half ago, and every day has been a joy! One of the first signs that I had found the perfect place was meeting the incredible members of the Leisure World Art Association. Their warmth, creativity, and talent made me feel instantly at home.

As a lifelong learner of the visual arts, I’ve had the privilege of expressing myself through oil painting, drawing, and creating public murals. Now, in this exciting new chapter of my life, I’m thrilled to share my passion for art with others by occasionally teaching classes here at Leisure World.

In addition to teaching, I also have the honor of scheduling classes for our very talented art instructors. This role allows me to help nurture creativity within our wonderful community. This December, a few of my own paintings will be on display in the art studio, and I would love for you to stop by, explore our current class offerings, and perhaps find inspiration to embark on your own artistic journey.

Inspiration? Leonid was fascinated by the interplay of light and color. Too bad he never made it to Arizona!

The final one is 1907 Alameda Beauty by Linda Weinstock of Leisure World. Inspiration? Linda’s interest in history and love of people and family gets translated onto canvas. The picture portrays a real story of real people and where they lived.

Yes, Leisure World artists, inspiration can come from anywhere. Check out your world, and get out that canvas!

“Life is Art – Paint Your Dreams”

Angel in a Green Hat- Oil

My Lego Buddy- Graphite

Mom's Teapot- Oil

My Sweet Ride- Oil

Reach for the Sky- Oil

The Largest Leisure World Art Show Ever!

I hope you all got a chance to stop by the Rec. 1 Ballroom on November 16th for the art portion of the Fall Arts and Crafts Fair. The talent that resides here in Leisure World is astonishing. From watercolor to photography, and abstract paintings to quilting, there was plenty to inspire the artist in all of us.

If you missed out, check out the photos below.

The Leisure World Craft Fair

Happy Birthday to Larron Lerdall, Pottery Club Instructor!

On Thursday, October 24th, the Leisure World Pottery Club celebrated our instructor Larron Lerdall’s 70th birthday with a cake and goodies. Larron started with the club in 1976. Yes, that’s correct, 48 years ago! A Leisure World lady knew him from Arizona Golf Resort, where he worked as a banquet and food server. She asked if he’d like to come teach a class on pottery, and the club was born. It has been so popular; the club has had to move three times more. The club currently has 65 members.

Larron became interested in the arts while in high school and went on to study at Mesa Community College and Arizona State University. He is also an instructor of pottery at the Mesa Arts Center, a position he has held for 25 years. He sells his pieces around the Valley at art shows and at the Art Center’s Gift Shop.

Thank you, Larron, for your many years of commitment to our Leisure World Pottery Club!

Submitted by Lori Borland

Celebrating a Year of Fiber Arts!

By Andi Box

What does it look like to be crazy about quilting? The answer is simple. Go to the Fiber Arts studio in Rec. 1 on Tuesdays for open sew from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. for meetings, and you will not only see gorgeous quilts on display, but you will see joyous, charitable, and community-oriented quilters hard at work.

While the Fiber Arts studio is shared by quilters, sewers, knitters, crocheters, needle pointers, and cross stitchers, there is ample space for all crafters to work and store their creations and creations-in-progress.

The Quilters Club has 16 cabinets full of colorful quilters’ fabric and completed quilts, 16 places for sewing machines, and a computerized quilting machine that can be set up to create a myriad of different designs. Judy Kauth, the president of Quilters Club, said they provide all the fabrics for their charity quilts, but they also sell quilts at the craft fair to raise money to fund the purchasing of said fabrics.

The club donates approximately 150 quilts a year to multiple charities and those in need, including foster care, veterans, the homeless, and Family Promise Ministry in Scottsdale.

Club member Merrilly Strom added that they have also donated quilts to devastated communities, including 20 quilts to the San Carlos Apache Reservation, 10 quilts to Ukraine, and six quilts to Maui.

The club also donated two “Quilts of Valor,” which are red, white, and blue patriotic-themed, handmade quilts crafted by the club members.

Kauth said many of the quilts they make are standardsized “lap quilts” that average 45 to 55 inches and range in style from applique to piercing to paper piercing.

Club member Linda Phar said the length of time to make a quilt varies depending on the size of the quilt and if it is created by the group or by an individual, but that “it’s about 40 hours for one quilt.”

If you are not able to make it on Tuesdays and Thursdays, there is always a sewing machine, cutting board, and scissors available, and the room is open from 8:00 a.m. to 10 p.m., but some days are reserved for different clubs, so be sure to look at the schedule posted in the room. Come on in and check it out!

By Andi Box

Meet the Twiddlers

When I asked Carolin Lowy what a twiddler is, she quipped: “A twiddler is someone who uses anything with needles… except we don’t do acupuncture.” She continued. “We use needles, hooks, and weaving looms. And we use fabric or yarn as the basis for our creations.” And when I walked into the Fiber Arts studio, I stood in awe for several seconds, surrounded by a happy hodgepodge of twiddlers crocheting, knitting, stitching, and weaving. Each workspace looked like it had a rainbow puddle on the table.

I was immediately welcomed and shown a myriad of finished and in-the-works art pieces and functional pieces, some of the latter which would be donated and combined with other pieces to benefit non-profit organizations.

One of those organizations is Warm Up America, a knitting charity, where knitters donate 7” x 9” rectangles that are then sewn together to create afghans for local shelters. The rectangles can be knitted or crocheted in any color or pattern, which adds to the uniqueness of each afghan.

I spent much of my time talking with Carolin. When asked what her title is within the club, she and her fellow twiddlers hummed and hawed and decided on The Honourable Lady Carolin Lowy of Glencoe, Scotland.

Lady Lowy works tirelessly to make sure the Twiddlers Club, as well as the Knitters and Crocheters Club, have all the materials and supplies they need. The clubs gladly accept any donations. “Everything I work with has been donated,” Lowy said. “I have a home for everything.”

Lowy then showed me four closets filled with supplies and finished pieces ready to be donated. “This all used to be in my garage,” Lowy said with a laugh.

There was one shelf full of hats and scarves for the homeless, another shelf, also filled with hats, headbands, and scarves, is reserved for teenagers in need. A third shelf is dedicated to throw blankets for chemo patients.

Lowy said the club welcomes all residents and skill levels. “We even have gentlemen here. We’re not all ladies. And we help each other out with various types of knitting and crocheting. We have a room full of experts. This is a happy room. I even taught Bob how to knit.”

Bob Smallwood, a transplant from Denver, Colorado, since 2019, specializes in knitting dishcloths. When we talked, he was busy knitting a dishcloth in green and white yarn.

“I like to make dishcloths in sports colors. This one is Michigan State,” Smallwood said, holding up his green-and-white creation. He also made a scarf, the only one he’s ever made, for Lowy. “I thought, ‘I’ll just make a dishcloth and not stop. I learned how to do the purl stitch, and I stitched the word L-O-V-E within the scarf,’” Smallwood said proudly.

“We love having Bob here,” said Jan Tedrow. “And it’s fun to come and share our creations. We do a lot of show-and-tell, so everyone gets praise, but we also do so much for charity.”

This November marked the one-year anniversary of the Fabric Arts studio. Lowy was instrumental in making this studio a reality. The current Internet Oasis used to be the Sewing Room, but Lowy said that it was “never an adequate size for our needs.” The Fiber Arts studio also used to be the computer room. “After much discussion, we agreed to trade spaces,” Lowy said.

Upon coming into a family inheritance, Lowy donated some of the money to create a space that could adequately meet the needs of not just sewers, but quilters, as well.

“If you’ve suddenly come into money, what good is it if you can’t help others?” she mused.

Lowy said the original computer room was gutted and redesigned as the Fiber Arts studio, and directly across from the studio, the Internet Oasis was created.

While I was in the Fiber Arts studio, there was a constant ebb and flow of people. There was a consistent group of 14 twiddlers, and Lowy said if everyone showed up at once, there would be about 25 members. “All these little connections. You never know. All these stories. This space has certainly exceeded what we’d hoped for.”

The Illustrious Folklore of Cannabis

Introduction

Mankind’s history is steeped in the mythology of the use of a plant for its medicinal properties, utilized to treat physical ailments, as well as hemp to make clothing and rope, and in some cultures for religious ceremonies and spiritual practices related to its psychoactive characteristics. Individuals of different races, creeds, religions, languages, and political perspectives partook in this aromatic plant across the globe. Our history as a species has always included this plant, called marijuana, cannabis, ganja (from India meaning flower) or bhang (from India meaning the leaves and seeds for edibles). Why may you ask? Because life back in the day was grueling, difficult, filled with hardship, long periods of a significant other away at sea and remiss of any conveniences of our modern world today.

An assortment of characters made up the cadre of individuals who partook and benefited from this botanical resource. This informal collection of individuals came from all walks of life, from nobility to the commoner, to the wife, priest, seaman, explorers, to craftsmen, pirates, Indians, cowboys, slaves, and swindlers. The effect of this plant became an indelible mark on our history thanks to our oral tradition over time. No continent or country escaped the influence and excitement of cannabis as its effects helped to bring levity and perspective to an otherwise ongoing struggle of daily life. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the reader of the global impact of cannabis from our ancient history. A walk from China to India, the slave trade in Africa, the United Kingdom and America, and concluding with the Revolutionary War and Hemp. Understanding the influence of a plant, its impact across cultures and continents and the cast of characters that carried the message is the jest of this editorial piece.

China and India

Ancient China was instrumental in cannabis domestication, production and use in trade, originating before 10,000 BCE. Northwestern China then spread their influence of the value of this botanical to the rest of Asia, India, and throughout Eurasia. The age of the cannabis flower has been documented with archaeological evidence found in pottery at that time in southern China, Taiwan, and Japan.

The Chinese Emperor Fu Hsi is credited to introducing civilized living to China. Emperor Fu Hsi called marijuana “Ma,” the Chinese word for cannabis. He noted that cannabis was a popular medicine and as a plant integrated both the yin and yang of life. The term Ma, coined in 2700 BCE, referred specifically to the hemp plant. It was Emperor Shen Nung that discovered the healing properties of marijuana in 2700 BCE. Emperor Nung was given the name “The Father of Chinese Medicine” as he developed the first Chinese medical pharmacopeia which included cannabis. He identified over 100 aliments in writing that were positively impacted with the use of Ma.

Some of the aliments listed were gout, rheumatism, malaria, and absent-mindedness.

Emperor Shen Nung was strategic in creating a compendium of drug recipes for several conditions. Most cannabis in China was hemp used for clothing, fishing nets, rope and paper: the seeds were used for medicine.

Antiquity is associated with cannabis. The first-time cannabis was notated in India was in the Vedas, an ancient Hindu text, which is the earliest written history of cannabis dating back to 2000 BCE. According to Veda tradition, cannabis is considered among the five sacred plants and referred to as bhang. Bhang was given to individuals during Hindu ceremonies and incorporated in food. The classification in the Vedas text stated cannabis to be the “source of happiness,” and “joygiver”.  Longevity was associated with this plant, which had an important role in Indian social life as a recreational, a religious sacrament, and as a household remedy.

The Slave Trade in Africa

Cannabis as a plant crossed the Atlantic Ocean with the human exploitation of slaves from Africa. These traumatized survivors required relief, so cannabis was the antidote to deal with their anxiety, trauma, and other disorders as reported by a British physician in

1840. African slaves saw this plant as a drug. The slaves were the transporters of Indica seeds they meticulously harvested, dried, and secured for the long-wet journey ahead. Written history was scant so the accounts for Africa are less than robust regarding cannabis’ role and influence in that country.

Both explorers from Arabia and India exposed the Africans to cannabis. Oral histories from Brazil, Jamaica, Liberia, and Sierra Leone validate the fact that enslaved central Africans carried cannabis. A French American explorer named Gabon observed slaves carefully preserving seeds with the intention of planting them in the new world for profit.

Cannabis use in Africa continues to be portrayed in individuals who are seen as socially marginalized from Morocco to Nigeria. Most European travelers noted their porters to smoke cannabis before beginning their day to wake them up and warm their bodies, so they were ready to work. Cannabis in Africa was a symptom of exploitation and inequity. The harsh reality of a slave’s life demanded the comfort and perspective of cannabis to survive, function and to continue the same process the next day.

United Kingdom and America

The widespread cultivation of cannabis did not begin until the 1800s under British rule, hemp started to be found throughout the world. It was an era of sea power for England, France, Dutch, Spanish and Portuguese fleets with maritime ships outfitted with ropes, sails, and nets coming from hemp. The ocean vessels did not want their equipment rotting from sea water, so hemp was the answer.

Hemp is a strain of cannabis that is bred to make fiber, used in the construction of clothing, for ships, oils and topical ointments, and nutritional benefits without intoxication. The difference between hemp and marijuana is based on the level of tetrahydrocannabinol or THC percentage in the plant, hemp can only have less than 0.3% THC.

In 1830 Dr. William O’Shaughnessy introduced cannabis to England after a long stay in India. He was an Irish physician, assistant surgeon, and professor of chemistry at a prominent university in India, who experimented on animals using cannabis to gauge cannabis toxicity. He conducted what was the first clinical trials with cannabis. While his initial subjects were in animals, he started to experiment with alcohol tinctures containing cannabis in humans. Only in humans could he produce the inebriating effects with his cannabis tinctures and saw medical benefits in the patients he served.

Hemp was indispensable to the exploration of the

globe, trade, and mercantilism. During this time hemp was to colonial trade and transportation what oil is to commerce in the present time. When the thirteen colonies were getting established, farmers were required to produce twenty-five percent hemp crops which were needed for sails, ropes, paper, and clothing.

A period of 200 years (1620-1820), hemp was the most important crop in America. In 1850 the U.S. Census Bureau in America reported over 8,327 cannabis plantations which accounted for over 7,000 acres at each location. Our forefathers new the value and medical merits of cannabis and hemp, therefore, their backyard gardens were busy growing this amazing plant for industrial and recreational purposes.

The Revolutionary War and Hemp

The Revolutionary War success, which concluded in 1763, was attributed to the “Spinning Bees” organized by the woman at the time (wives, mothers, and daughters who stayed with the soldiers) to keep Washington’s troops clothed and protected from the cold. Hemp was the material spun and sewn for the clothing for the soldiers, without hemp, the Continental Army would have frozen to death at Valley Forge.

At the worst point, three months into the war, the army listed 2,898 men as unfit for duty due to a lack of clothing. During this time, well-equipped units took the place of their poorly dressed comrades and patrolled, foraged, and defended the camp. The impact of hemp in the war fueled the interest in this substance for its health benefits.

In the 1800s, both medicine and pharmacy were unorthodox, unorganized and in the United States, loosely unregulated. The American Medical Association was created in 1847, yet medical schools were found over garages or behind butcher shops. By 1840, marijuana became a predominant ingredient in many over-the-counter medications and was accepted in mainstream medicine. Then in 1850, marijuana was added to the U.S. pharmacopeia as a remedy for opioid withdrawal, pain, appetite recovery, and resolution of nausea and vomiting.

Conclusion In summary, cannabis circumnavigated the globe through nomadic travels connecting all mankind. The world at large celebrated its medicinal properties, loved its mood-altering effect in the body and counted on its ability to sustain one’s energy for another day of work. The foundation of living was built on this plant and so the public indulged in its inebriating constituents to bring laugher and a light heart to the tough human experience of living in that day and age.

By Dr. Dana Lillestol, PhD

ME’S CORNER OF BLESSINGS

Mary Ellen doValle

December is a month of hopeful peace, a time of sharing and giving, a period of joy and festivity. At least, for many, but not all. This can be a time of depression, sorrow, and loneliness for some. We have witnessed horrific pictures of what wars can inflict on people. Everything lost in a flash.

I ask that you dedicate this month to pray for peace in the world. As the song says: “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” Each of us can use this spirit of peace to also help those less fortunate than us. Let us open a gift of giving to our friends, neighbors, and yes, strangers. Let’s perform acts of kindness and caring, perhaps providing meals for the live aloner or maybe just a visit to express concern and care. Take time to send a message to one of our military personnel stationed out of the country or deployed to hazardous locations.

Giving does not always mean a monetary gift. However, if you find yourself in a position to do

so, please think of all the organizations that can put your contribution to good work. Why, right here in Leisure World, our Foundation will begin kicking off its annual fund drive. It has helped many right here in our community, such as the clubs and employees of our community. If you feel so driven to do so, you can donate via their website: Leisure World Foundation of Arizona - Inspiring communities, making Arizona better.

So, in this month of December, I give you my greetings and prayers. May you have peace. Best wishes. In closing, I would like to share one of my favorite prayers, Francis of Assisi’s prayer for peace.

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace: where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console, to be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Glory to God in the Highest

At the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem, a festive angelic choir in Luke 2:14 sang to some shepherds, “Glory to God in the Highest and on earth peace, goodwill to men.” As we consider the situations in our families, our nation, and our world today, we see limited examples of peace. Are there things each of us can do to increase peace? I believe there are. Being kind and helpful to others is a good way to start. Kindness can be exhibited in ways such as a smile, an encouraging word, or a listening ear. By overlooking some unkind remarks, we can strive for peace. Bearing one another’s burdens can go a long way to keep peace with others. As we willingly forgive others, we have God’s promise to forgive us.

If we are honest with ourselves, there are times we struggle to stay positive in difficult encounters, but even the attempt to defuse a situation can pay dividends. Especially during this holiday season, may we look for opportunities to be kind and helpful as we foster an environment of peace.

Act Now to Reduce Your 2024 Taxes TAX CORNER

By Ken Weinstock CPA, Leisure World resident.

December. A time for cooler temperatures, celebrating the holidays with friends and family and, of course, year-end tax planning!

Here are some things to consider:

Filing Status

If you’re married, you and your spouse can file one joint tax return or two separate tax returns. If you’re not married or if you’re considered unmarried, rather than file a single return you may be able to use the head of household filing status. If you paid over half the cost of keeping up a home for the entire year for a dependent parent, or if you paid over half the cost of keeping up a home for six months or more for yourself and someone else, you can claim the tax benefits of the head of household filing status. These include a larger standard deduction and tax brackets that start at lower dollar amounts. Are you unmarried and paying for assisted living for your mom or dad? Consider using the head of household filing status.

Standard Deduction vs. Itemized Deductions

For 2024 the standard deduction is $14,600 for single taxpayers, $29,200 for married taxpayers and $21,900 for those who file as head of household. Additional deduction amounts are allowed for taxpayers who are 65 or older or blind. If your 2024 itemized deductions will be close to the standard deduction, consider whether you could benefit over a two-year period by paying additional amounts for medical expenses or contributions in 2024 and taking the standard deduction in 2025.

Charitable Contributions

Donating appreciated assets such as stocks or other securities may be a good thing to consider. If you purchased stock for $5,000 that’s now worth $20,000,

you may have to pay capital gains tax on $15,000 if you sell the stock. If you donate the stock to a charity there is no capital gains tax on the transfer to the charity plus you would get a charitable deduction of $20,000, the current value of the stock.

Qualified Charitable Distribution

If you have a required minimum distribution from an IRA but don’t need the money, you can exclude some or all the distribution from income and pay less tax by making a qualified charitable distribution directly from your IRA. Reducing your adjusted gross income may help reduce or eliminate the amount of social security benefits included in taxable income and the amount of income subject to the 3.8% net investment income tax.

Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit

If you make qualified energy-efficient improvements to your home in 2024 you may qualify for a tax credit up to $3,200. You still have a few weeks left to reduce your 2024 tax liability by improving your home.

Credit for Electric Vehicles

You may qualify for a tax credit up to $7,500 if you buy a new, qualified plug-in electric vehicle (EV) or fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV). New for 2024: you can get a credit of up to $4,000 if you buy a qualified used EV or FCV from a licensed dealer. Also, you can transfer the used vehicle credit to the dealer as a down payment rather than wait to claim the credit on your 2024 tax return. Get a new or used electric vehicle and use your gas money for something else!

Business Deductions

If you have a business, there are a number of ways to reduce your 2024 taxes in the remaining weeks of the year.

The cost of purchasing new business equipment

may be written off in full if the equipment is placed in service by December 31, 2024. Is your old office printer slower than you can live with? Maybe now is the time to replace it and take a 100% tax deduction.

If you use the cash method of accounting, consider buying business supplies in December. Generally, amounts paid in the current year are deductible when paid even if the supplies are used in the following year. You may also want to think about sending out bills to customers later in December. The cash method of accounting requires you to report income when you receive it, not when you send out a bill.

Deducting expenses for a home office is a great way to reduce your taxes. If you qualify for a home office deduction, you may be able to deduct a portion of your property taxes and home mortgage interest even if you take the standard deduction. This is in addition to deducting other home office expenses.

Remember: there are many ways to reduce your 2024 taxes, but some of them need to be done before you attend your New Year’s Eve celebration. Action now can save you money later.

Are Household Items Considered a Part of Probate?

By: Rilus M. Dana

When someone dies, their assets may go through probate, especially if they haven’t specified how those assets should be distributed. Probate is the legal process that transfers ownership of a deceased person’s property to rightful heirs or designated beneficiaries. Understanding which assets go through probate can help simplify your estate planning decisions.

Assets Subject to Probate:

Assets solely owned by the decedent without a beneficiary designation or that aren’t held in a Living Trust are generally subject to probate. Common examples include:

• Vehicles

• Real estate

• Financial accounts

• Stocks and bonds

• Some personal property

• Assets titled “Tenants in Common”

Unlike joint ownership with rights of survivorship, “Tenants in Common” does not pass the deceased’s share directly to co-owners; instead, it goes to beneficiaries named in an estate plan or per state probate laws.

Are Household Items Affected by Probate Law?

In Arizona, household items such as furniture, clothing, artwork, collections, and jewelry generally do not trigger the probate process or rarely do. Arizona law provides simplified procedures for transferring personal property of small value without probate. These items often hold sentimental rather than financial value, and the state recognizes the importance of allowing families to distribute them without the complexities of probate.

It’s still important to consider how you want these items distributed after your passing. Naming individuals to receive particular items in a Will or Trust can prevent family disputes and ensure your wishes are honored.

Which Assets Avoid Probate?

Several types of assets are not subject to the probate process. The common theme with most of the below is that a beneficiary has been designated through proper

channels, such as a transfer on death (TOD) form, payable on death (POD) form, or even the Department of Motor Vehicle beneficiary designation form.

Specifically, the following assets would likely avoid probate:

• Life insurance or 401(k) accounts with a named beneficiary

• Living Trust assets

• Registered TOD or POD securities, U.S. bonds, and other funds

• Pension funds

• Remaining salary or wages owed to the deceased

• Vehicles and watercraft with a TOD beneficiary

If you do not check your beneficiary designations at least every 3 to 5 years, these assets may not go to the person you intend. After family changes like divorce, death, the birth or adoption of children, marriage, etc., you will need to update your beneficiaries to ensure these assets avoid probate and go to the right people.

property usually transfer ownership upon death. This transference of ownership supersedes a Will designating different beneficiaries for the jointly owned asset.

Designated Beneficiaries

While many assets allow the owner to designate a beneficiary in case of death, which can help to avoid the probate process, there are a few situations that can require the probate process anyway:

• Incapacitation of the beneficiary

• The beneficiary precedes the owner in death

• At the time of death, the designated beneficiary is a minor

• Your estate is the beneficiary

Additional Assets That May Avoid Probate

Below are three additional asset types with examples that typically avoid the probate process after an individual dies.

Jointly Owned Assets

Jointly owned assets involve assets that have shared ownership with another person. These assets could include:

• Motor vehicles and watercraft

• Real estate property

• Bank and related financial accounts

• Property with titling documentation

Basically, any asset that has a co-owner named on the title or on the account and is not titled “Tenants in Common,” as mentioned earlier. These types of

Assets in a Trust If properly set up, a Living Trust allows assets to bypass probate. However, if an asset isn’t titled correctly under the Trust or if a Trust is named as a beneficiary in a Will, the asset may still go through probate to complete the transfer. Regularly updating your Trust to include new acquisitions helps ensure assets are protected from probate.

Planning Ahead to Avoid Probate

While many assets can avoid probate with a clear estate plan, it’s important to understand how different types of property are treated under Arizona law. Household items, although they may not trigger probate, still require consideration in your estate planning to prevent potential disputes among family members. Consulting an experienced estate planning and probate attorney can help ensure all your assets are handled as you intend and minimize any potential complications. Proper planning now can help reduce stress and prevent disputes among loved ones later.

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

YOUR POCKETBOOK

Common Misconceptions about 529 Plans

Many families and individuals who want effective and efficient ways to save for education expenses often turn to the ever-popular 529 plan, which offers wideranging tax benefits. In recent years, the scope of 529 savings plan has expanded with several new features, many of which are often overlooked. If you anticipate that someone in your life may benefit from a 529, it’s important to understand the advantages – and common myths – of this unique savings vehicle.

Four common 529 plan misconceptions:

#1) A 529 is just for college. It is a common misunderstanding that 529 plans can only be used for higher education or college expenses. While the 529 plan was originally created to save for college costs, it has since expanded to be a broader savings vehicle. For example, 529 funds can now be used for qualified expenses for apprenticeship programs registered with the U.S. Department of Labor, educational loan payments (up to $10,000 total), and specific K-12 tuition (up to $10,000 per year). The major value of a 529 plan is that any withdrawal from the fund that is designated as a qualified educational expense such as tuition and books is free from federal income taxes, and in some cases, state income tax.

#2) I must have children to open a 529. You do not have to have children to open a 529 for a beneficiary. Adults over the age of 18 can open a 529 plan for themselves or for another student, including a parent, grandparent, extended family or friend. You also can open a 529 plan for future children or grandchildren before they’re born, which is a tremendous advantage as it allows savers to take advantage of a long-time horizon for funds to grow. If you are anticipating a future student’s need for educational cost-assistance, you can start a 529 plan and name yourself the beneficiary and switch the account from yourself to the student at any

point in the future. However, keep in mind there may be tax consequences if you change the beneficiary to someone outside of the original beneficiary’s family. Consider the relationship between any initial and intended beneficiary in advance of opening any plan. It is also important to note that the owner of the 529 plan must switch over the account to the appropriate beneficiary before withdrawals can take place.

#3) 529 plans rule out need-based financial aid. Opening and utilizing a 529 can impact distributions of financial aid based on need, but it does not rule it out completely. A 529 owned by a parent or student is considered an asset under the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA), which can reduce the ability to receive need-based financial aid, but only by a small percentage of the asset’s value. It is still possible to receive need-based financial aid if you have 529.

#4) I must use all the money in the account. You do not have to use all the funds in a 529 for education expenses. If you have funds remaining in your 529 plan – perhaps a child received a significant scholarship or a grandchild chose an alternative path over college – you may reallocate them. Starting in 2024, beneficiaries of a 529 plan that has been in place for more than 15 years can allocate the assets from the 529 account to a Roth IRA, which can be a great option to increase retirement savings in lieu of education expenditures. The lifetime maximum that can be transferred from a 529 plan to a Roth IRA is $35,000.

If transferring the funds to a Roth IRA does not make sense for your financial plan, you can utilize the money in a 529 for other expenses, but keep tax and penalty consequences in mind. For example, if the funds are used for expenses that are not designated as qualified education expenses, the earnings portion of the withdrawal is subject to federal, and likely state,

income tax as well as a 10% federal penalty. Make sure to consult a tax advisor for additional guidance.

A 529 plan can be a valuable saving tool if you have a desire to support the education of one or more loved ones in your life. Your financial advisor can help you understand if a 529 makes sense for your situation and how to plan for one of life’s biggest expenses while staying attuned to your long-term goals.

1 – Ameriprise Financial: “529 plans: frequently asked questions”. https:// www.ameriprise.com/financial-goals-priorities/education-planning/529plan-FAQ

Steven M. Rabin, CFP, CRPC, APMA, CDFA, ChFC, is Managing Director of Academy Advisors Wealth Management.

Academy Advisors Wealth Management, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC in Gilbert, AZ. We specialize in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies 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. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP certification mark (with plaque design) in the U.S. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification mark, and the CFP® certification mark (with plaque design) logo in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.        Investment products are not insured by the FDIC, NCUA or any federal agency, are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by any financial institution, and involve investment risks including possible loss of principal and fluctuation in value.

Ameriprise Financial, Inc. and its affiliates do not offer tax or legal advice. Consumers should consult with their tax advisor or attorney regarding their specific situation.

Ameriprise Financial cannot guarantee future financial results. Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. File # AMP6892200.1- (Approved until 10/31/2026)

By Matilda Charles

What Shall We Do With the Extra $50?

Social Security payments are going up 2.5% starting in January, which comes to an average $50 increase for the 72 million recipients. That’s less than the increase for 2024, and the previous year, and the previous year.

Your 2025 statement detailing your specific amount should arrive in the mail in early December. Read it to be sure you don’t spot any mistakes.

Medicare cost is getting a bump, from $174 to $185. (Keep an eye out for your annual booklet “Medicare & You” to come in the mail.) Remember: Upon reaching age 65, you still need to sign up for Medicare within 3 months of your birthday.

Social Security fraud is still a big problem. If you suspect someone has tried to scam you, call the Inspector General’s Fraud Hotline at 800-269-0271 and report it.

If you’re scrambling and watching your savings dwindle because of the rising cost of, well, everything and you know that the Social Security increase won’t make a dent, give your finances a good hard look.

Some ideas: Buy food in bulk and split with a friend or neighbor. Look for community rabies/distemper shot events to lower the cost of vaccines for your pet. Put clear plastic on the windows to block chilly breezes. Ask for discounts everywhere you go and shop on seniors discount days. Apply for energy, phone and internet assistance money. Consider a part-time job one day per week. If you can pay for the whole year on your auto or homeowner insurance, you might get a significant discount. Review your subscriptions and cable TV extras and see if you can delete any of them. Try out cheaper store brands. Explore GoodRx and America’s Pharmacy for reduced prescription costs.

In short, look for spare dollars anywhere you can find them, because that extra $50 isn’t going to go very far.

Ready to volunteer?

Have you considered what you’ll do with your spare time in the New Year? How about volunteering? There are so many ways we can step up.

AmeriCorps Seniors (americorps.gov/serve/americorpsseniors) provides opportunities to over 200,000 seniors every year to go into the community and give back. If there’s an interest, there’s likely a place that needs help.

The Foster Grandparent Program hooks up seniors and children ranging from premature babies all the way to young teenage mothers.

In the Seniors RSVP Program, seniors are matched with organizations that help others in the community. The Senior Companion Program pairs a volunteer with another senior who needs help with daily living activities. What do we seniors get out of volunteering? We gain new skills or improve the ones we already have as we share our experience. We can earn a small stipend. We can lessen our isolation and feelings of loneliness as we interact with others. And we experience better health, including mental health with a decrease in anxiety and depression.

The only eligibility requirement is that volunteers must be age 55 and older.

You might end up teaching a child to read, or volunteering as an aide in a kindergarten class. You might help another senior with tasks he or she can no longer do, such as laundry or writing letters to family. You could work behind the counter at a recreation center signing out basketballs. You might sort vegetables in a food bank. The opportunities are nearly endless.

If you need inspiration, look at the National Service Reports for your state to see what others have been doing.

Saving money in 2025

If food prices are going to come down after the recent election, it won’t be instantly. We need to continue to shop carefully and get the best possible deals for our dollar. Look for senior discount days, coupons, loyalty perks and, yes, the food bank.

If you can spring for a Walmart+ membership ($98 per year, minus $20 if you’re also an AARP member), each time you shop you can end up with rewards dollars added to your account for buying certain products. Look for other benefits such as free shipping, discounts on fuel if your local store has a gas station, access to the TV streaming service Paramount+, prescription delivery and a lot more.

For the first time in 15 years, the membership cost of AARP is going up in 2025. The new price of $20 will take effect after your current membership expires. If you extend your membership now, it will be at the current rate. Meanwhile, take advantage of AARP’s savings and discounts on a wide variety of products and services, ranging from dining out; insurance; travel, including car rental and vacation packages; gym memberships; and so much more.

Ask your cable and internet provider for a reduced fee. It could be that by dropping down one plan level, you could save considerable money by cutting out the channels you never watch anyway.

Investigate Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for help with fuel and heating costs, one of our biggest expenses. Start by calling the Community Action Agency in your state or the Area Agency on Aging.

efficiently.

RECREATION, FITNESS AND GOLF

High Stakes and High Spirits:

New Year’s Eve Casino Royale with Midnight Confessions

Join us for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve celebration with a glamorous casino theme! Step into a world of glitz and glamour as you enter our elegantly decorated Rec. 2, reminiscent of the iconic casinos of Monte Carlo and Las Vegas. The night will be filled with high-stakes excitement and endless entertainment. Spend your night dancing the night away to Leisure World’s favorite band – Midnight Confessions, or try your luck at blackjack or roulette, as Leisure World is providing tables and dealers for your enjoyment. All proceeds to gambling will be given to your choice of various charities, and in exchange for your chips you will receive raffle tickets to win various prizes throughout the night. It wouldn’t be a casino without an excellent buffet – enjoy dinner before all the festivities as Chef on the Go will be providing an elegant meal:

• Chef’s Salad (spring mix with English cucumbers, grape tomatoes, carrots and shaved red onions, served with house made dressings

• Herb Crusted Pork Loin with Lemon Dijon Cream Sauce

• Grilled Chicken Piccata served over Penne Pasta

• Penne with Pomodoro Sauce (Vegan Friendly)

• Scalloped Potatoes with fresh grated nutmeg, Gruyere and Parmesan cheese (GF Friendly)

• Seasonal Roasted Vegetables (Chef’s choice of seasonal vegetables tossed in fresh herbs, garlic and olive oil) (Vegan and Gluten Free Friendly)

Dress to impress in your finest evening wear or channel your inner high roller with a touch of casino chic. Whether you’re a seasoned gambler or just looking for a night of fun and festivity, our New Year’s Eve casino-themed event promises an experience like no other. Let’s roll the dice and make this New Year’s Eve one to remember!

Date: Tues., Dec. 31

Time: 8:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi / Pima Rooms

Cost: $60 per person

Santa and his helpers are going to be back at Leisure World for a special parade through the neighborhood, ending it off with refreshments and special gifts for those who were good this year. Santa leads the parade with L.W. residents in decorated golf carts, vintage vehicles, bicycles, etc. starting at Rec. Center 2 at 1:00 p.m.

Sign up in the Rec. Office to be part of the parade as well as your grandkids if they will be participating in the gifts from Santa. Bring a gift for your grandchild to the Rec. Office by Fri., Dec. 20. Be sure the child’s full name is written clearly on the package for Santa to personally give them their gift. Santa will be passing out the gifts by last name; this way we can make sure families all get their gifts at the same time. Santa’s helpers will be on hand to help facilitate the gift giving. This is a great outing for everyone, whether you have visiting family or not!

Date: Mon., Dec. 23

Parade starting: 1:00 p.m. departing from Rec. 2 Parking Lot Santa and fun: 2:00 p.m. Rec. 1 Center

Deadline for gifts: Fri., Dec. 20

Santa Parade

Extreme Faith Productions Holiday Worship Night

Join Extreme Faith Productions in a night of worship on their Christmas Classic Tour with K-Love artist Jamie Kimmett all the way from Scotland. It will be a beautiful night of Christmas joy under the stars in the Courtyard. Heaters will be provided, but bring a chair and blanket of your own if needed. Refreshments and cocoa will be provided by Extreme Faith Productions. Reservations are not required for this event.

Date: Wed., Dec. 4

Time: 6:00 pm

Place: Rec. 1 Courtyard

Pre-Season Show

Christmas Spectacular – Rockin’ Wonderland

The best way to celebrate the season is in the valley of the sun – with Brock Pro entertainment’s Rockin’ Wonderland. Enjoy hit songs, carols, and sing-a-longs like Mary Did You Know, O Holy Night, Happy Holidays/Let Yourself Go, and more! Bring your festive attitude and enjoy the holiday season with the wonderful ensemble of singers with their beautiful outfits and a night full of cheer.

Date: Mon., Dec. 9

Time: 7:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms

Cost: $24-$30 depending on section choice.

RECREATION: December Special Events

Community-Wide Garage Sale

Interested in being a part of Leisure World’s community garage sale? Sign up in the Recreation Office by 12 noon, Tuesday, Dec. 3, to be sure your manor gets highlighted on the map. A listing of all garage sale locations and maps of the community will be available online, in the back of the LW Library, Administration Reception Desk, and Recreation Office starting Thursday, Dec. 5 for you to plan your day of shopping! Due to security reasons, the Community Garage Sale is not open to the public.

Date: Sat., Dec. 7

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 1 p.m. Map Deadline: Tues., Dec. 3

By Recreation

Get into the holiday spirit and join the fun at our resident holiday mixer. Mix, mingle and be merry with your friends and neighbors while you rock around the Christmas tree with Scott Hallock and friends who are bringing a mix of holiday cheer and some classic rock. Let’s celebrate the holidays with some good food! Recreation will be carving up fresh baked ham, and various appetizers.

Refreshments include hot chocolate, spiced cider, regular and decaf coffee and water. BYOB is always welcomed. Stop by the Recreation Office for your FREE ticket! Residents are welcome to bring cookies to share.

Date: Thurs., Dec. 19

Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms

and Home

Don't know what to wear? Get dressed in the dark! Be creative, have fun!

RECREATION: Regular Events You Love!

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 onsets.

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

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: Dec. 4 & 18*, Jan. 8 & 22

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom | *Dec. 18 Trivia will be held at Rec. 2

Cost: $2 per person

Leisure World Monthly Market

is back! (formerly known as the Flea Market)

Take this opportunity to sell and buy used household items, handmade craft items, or residents may also sell commercial items. The Leisure World Monthly Market has it all, so come shop, or come sell! Recreation supplies tables for $5 each, and clothing racks for $1. Residents selling commercial items will be required to pay 10% of their sales back to Leisure World.

Date: Fri.,Dec. 13, Jan. 10

Time: 9:00 a.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom

Cost: $5 per table | $1 per rack

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 December, 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. Call us:

Please don’t wait, your quality of life depends on you getting this exam TODAY!

CLUB EVENTS

Purchase tickets through the Recreation Office.

Sunday Serenade with Leisure World Big Band

Enjoy the big band sound featuring our very own Leisure World Big Band! They’ll be playing the hits made famous by the legendary big bands of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Stan Kenton and more! Dance or enjoy listening to two hours of the sound of big band hits.

Reserved seats on sale now through Recreation and include the entertainment and water, soda, and ice. BYO spirited beverage.

Date: Sun., Dec. 1

Time: 2:30 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms

Cost: $10 per person

Deadline: Tues., Nov. 26

Come celebrate new beginnings with friends! Theme is mix and match don’t match bash. Enjoy a night of dancing and all you can eat food. The menu will be street tacos with various toppings and rice and beans and churros as a side. There will be surprise decorations with fun photo ops, and a surprise box of party favors on each table with 2 giveaways each hour. Call DJ Steve at 480-600-5308 for questions.

Date: Sat., Dec. 28

Time: 5:00-9:00 p.m.

Cost: $35 per person

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Deadline: Fri., Dec. 13

Leisure World Mixed Chorus Christmas Concert

The annual Christmas concert presented by the Leisure World Mixed Chorus is one of the highlights of the holiday season. The Chorus will delight the audience by providing a mixture of sacred and secular music designed to put everyone in the holiday spirit. Tickets are available in the Rec Office, from members of the chorus, or at the door.

Date & Time: Sat., Dec. 14 at 7:00 p.m. or Sun., Dec. 15 at 3:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms

Cost: $10 per person

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-thisworld voice.

Paul McDermand

COMMUNITY DANCE PARTIES

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

Jingle Bell Rock n’ Roll Dance Come Back Buddy

We will be Jingle Bell rockin’ the night away with Come Back Buddy! Step back in time with COME BACK

BUDDY specializing in 50's Rock-N-Roll, providing great entertainment for dancing and fun...an exciting atmosphere for "kids" of all ages! The group's repertoire includes the music of many artists from the 50's era including Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, Ricky Nelson, and of course, Buddy Holly.Wear your most festive outfit, or ugliest sweater, and let’s celebrate the holidays in style!

Date: Thurs., Dec. 12

Time: 7:00-10:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms

$8 in advance or $10 at the event

Theme

Bell Bottom Ball Thaddeus Rose

Let’s pretend

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

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

December 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.

December 1 Holiday In The Wild After her husband ends their marriage, Kate embarks on a solo second honeymoon in Africa. There, she and Derek, a pilot, rescue a baby elephant. While nursing the elephant back to health, Kate discovers how much she loves her new surroundings.

December 8 Christmas In Connecticut

While recovering in a hospital, war hero Jefferson Jones (Dennis Morgan) grows familiar with the Diary of a Housewife column written by Elizabeth Lane (Barbara Stanwyck). Jeff’s nurse arranges with Elizabeth’s publisher, Alexander Yardley (Sydney Greenstreet), for Jeff to spend the holiday at Elizabeth’s bucolic Connecticut farm with her husband and child. But the column is a sham, so Yardley hastens to arrange a publicity ploy by setting up single, nondomestic Elizabeth on a country farm.

December 15 A Heidelberg Holiday

Heidi Heidelberg receives a dream opportunity to sell her beautiful, handmade glass ornaments at the prestigious Heidelberg Christmas Market in Germany. While there, she meets Lukas, a local artisan who helps her reconnect with her lost heritage.

December 22 Family Man (PG-13)

Jack’s lavish, fast-paced lifestyle changes one Christmas night when he stumbles into a grocery store holdup and disarms the gunman. The next morning, he wakes up in bed lying next to Kate (Tea Leoni), his college sweetheart he left in order to pursue his career, and to the horrifying discovery that his former life no longer exists. As he stumbles through this alternate suburban universe, Jack finds himself at a crossroad where he must choose between his high-power career and the woman he loves.

December 29 Woman Of The Hour (R)

In 1970s Los Angeles, as a wave of murders makes headlines, a young woman aspiring to become an actress and a serial killer cross paths during an episode of a dating show.

Classics of the Silver Screen Movie Night:

“Bringing Up Baby” (1938)

Harried paleontologist David Huxley (Cary Grant) has to make a good impression on society matron Mrs. Random (May Robson), who is considering donating one million dollars to his museum. On the day before his wedding, Huxley meets Mrs. Random’s high-spirited young niece, Susan Vance (Katharine Hepburn), a madcap adventuress who immediately falls for the straitlaced scientist. The ever-growing chaos -- including a missing dinosaur bone and a pet leopard -- threatens to swallow him whole.

Date: Tues., Dec. 17

Time: 6:00 p.m.

Place: Rec. 1 Theater

Some Like It Hot

Aboard

Broadway 2025 Season

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

Rendezv s Café

Daily Specials

2024-2025 Performing Arts Series

Single Show Tickets are now on sale. Season passes are sold in 6-show packages or 8-show packages, including the two pre-season shows. Season passes allow you to see all of the amazing entertainment we provide from November-March for a discounted rate all season long. Depending on which section you choose will determine the price of your season passes:

8-Show Package:

Section One: $182 per person

Section Two: $168 per person

Section Three: $154 per person

Section Four: $140 per person

Dec. 9

Rockin’ Wonderland

Christmas Spectacular

The best way to celebrate the season is in the valley of the sun – with Brock Pro entertainment’s Rockin’ Wonderland. Enjoy hit songs, carols, and sing-a-longs like Mary Did You Know, O Holy Night, Happy Holidays/ Let Yourself Go, and more! Bring your festive attitude and enjoy the holiday season with the wonderful ensemble of singers with their beautiful outfits and a night full of cheer.

6

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

6-Show Package:

Section One: $156 per person

Section Two: $144 per person

Section Three: $132 per person

Section Four: $120 per person

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!

The best way to purchase your season tickets are through the lwca.com website, or calling the Rec. Office at 480-832-0000 ext. 209.

We thank all who supported our 2023-2024 season and can ensure next season will be even better! We can’t wait to share it with you.

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!

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

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

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.

p.m. Big Band Dance (HPG)

1:00 p.m. Desert Belles Performance (CY)

a.m. EntranceIQ Training (BR) 7:00 p.m. Republican

a.m. Big Band (HOPI)

Kindred Tours: Trip Scrooge at Gaslight Theatre

a.m. District 1 (BR)

p.m. EntranceIQ Training (BR) 1:00 p.m. Democratic Club Potluck (CLR)

p.m. District 6

p.m. Band with No Name (PROM)

p.m. Community Happy Hour (CLR)

p.m. Bingo (BR)

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 Recreation (LW) ¤ Premier World Discovery (PWD)

Featured Trip

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 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.

Sold Out!

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!

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

Ollie Trolley Holiday Lights Tour Back by popular demand with two Trolleys! (LW)

FOLLOW-ALONG TRIPS:

Enjoy the holidays in style with pick-up and drop-off from Leisure World! Ollie the Trolley’s one-of-a-kind annual Holiday Light Tour is coming to Leisure World for the second year in a row! We will have two trolleys so that everyone can go! They know the most spectacular Christmas light displays in the Valley, and they’ll do all the driving. Space is limited to 30 spots per trolley, so grab some friends and some hot cocoa or cider – and get the whole crew into the Holiday Spirit. Their Jolly

trolley operators will guide our threehour holiday light tour to experience the best Christmas displays in the Valley while playing festive holiday music along the way. Join us for holiday cheer this season and experience the magic of light tours onboard Ollie the Trolley.

Date: Mon., Dec. 16

Cost: $35 per person

Deadline: Fri., Dec. 13

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.

A Christmas Carol At the Hale Theater, A Christmas Carol continues its cherished tradition of enchanting audiences with the timeless tale of redemption and compassion. Join us once again as we bring to life Charles Dickens’ classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man whose heart is transformed by the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Filled with unforgettable characters, haunting melodies, and heartwarming moments, this beloved production is a holiday tradition that reminds us all of the power of love and redemption.

*Matinee Performance: 5:00 pm

Date: Wed., Dec. 4

Price: $45*

Deadline: Wed., Nov. 20

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: Wed.,

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

MOTORCOACH TRIPS:

DECEMBER

SCROOGE a Merry Miserly

Christmas Carol at the Gaslight Theatre (KT)

December 3rd, Tuesday $144

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! Join us as we kick off the holiday season Gaslight-style with this kooky adaptation of Dickens’ classic tale. It’s Christmas 1950’s and magical spirits open the eyes of crotchety Ebenezer Scrooge to the true meaning of generosity and compassion. 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.

Smoky Mountains & Pigeon Forge Holiday (KT)

December 8th-12th, 2024

$2749 (Based Upon Double Occupancy)

$680 (Single Supplement) Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix

DAY 1: FLIGHT TO KNOXVILLE, TN Arrive in Knoxville, TN to meet your tour director and transfer to Pigeon Forge in the Great Smoky Mountains for a four-night, onehotel stay. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner. (D) Overnight: Pigeon Forge

DAY 2: ASHEVILLE - BILTMORE This morning, motorcoach east to Asheville, NC to visit the Biltmore Estate, a Gilded Age Châteauesque-style mansion built for George Washington Vanderbilt II between 1889 and 1895. America’s largest home boasts 250 rooms, 65 fireplaces, 70,000-gallon indoor pool, bowling alley, priceless art and antiques. The grounds also feature 75 acres of formal gardens and a winery. During the holiday season, the estate is decorated with over 50 Christmas trees, hundreds of wreaths, bows and poinsettias, as well as miles of evergreen garland and thousands of ornaments. In addition, there is a massive 35-foot Fraser Fir tree adorned with beautiful ornaments. Enjoy an included lunch during your visit of the estate. This afternoon, return to Pigeon Forge for an evening at your own pace. (B,L) Overnight: Pigeon Forge

DAY 3: SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK - GATLINBURG - COUNTRY TONITE THEATER Today, discover our nation’s most visited National Park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy picturesque, wide, verdant valleys ringed by tall peaks, the very picture of calm, rural beauty. The park is also renowned for the diversity of its plant and animal life, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian Mountain culture. Then visit the gateway city to the park, Gatlinburg. Enjoy a Moonshine Tasting and learn about this formerly hidden craft. Today, the locals celebrate their rich history and make genuine moonshine on Gatlinburg’s Parkway. Enjoy free time in Gatlinburg for some shopping and a bite to eat before returning to Pigeon Forge. Enjoy a Farewell Dinner with your fellow travelers before this evening’s entertainment. Experience the award-winning Pigeon Forge Christmas Show at the Country Tonite Theater. The

magic of the holiday season abounds as the talented renditions of Christmas favorites combined with beautiful choreography, brightly decorated holiday sets and colorful costumes bring the enchantment of the holidays to the stage. (B,D) Overnight: Pigeon Forge

DAY 4: TITANIC - DOLLYWOOD This morning, discover the Titanic Museum, which is built at half-scale to the original ship, and contains over real 400 artifacts. Explore twenty dramatically lit galleries, experience 28-degree water, and sit in an actual size lifeboat. Then enjoy some free time to visit local shops and venues on your own. Later visit Dollywood for the Smoky Mountain Christmas experience. Dollywood is the area’s top-rated attraction and considered one of the best theme parks in the world. Memories are made when you take in a heartwarming holiday show or two, catch a ride on the Dollywood Express steam train, enjoy seasonal treats, festive food, and wander through the more than 5 million lights. The night ends with a seasonal fireworks spectacular sure to inspire.

(B) Overnight: Pigeon Forge

DAY 5: KNOXVILLE - HOME Today, fly home filled with wonderful memories of your Smoky Mountains & Pigeon Forge Holiday Tour. (B)

Home for the Holidays at Barleen’s Dinner Show (KT) December 10th, Tuesday $125 Get ready to mingle and jingle at this Barleen’s matinee performance, where a joyful mixture of traditional and popular seasonal classics are brought to you by masterful musicians! A delicious lunch is included prior to the show, and guests are always encouraged to “Eat dessert first!” We’ll begin with Barleen’s famous chocolate cake, before digging into slowroasted beef, creamy Yukon gold mashed potatoes with pan gravy, steamed baby carrots, a crisp dinner salad, and whole wheat rolls with butter. Barleen’s also offers an optional “Healthy Plate,” suitable for vegetarians. We’ll enjoy a variety of soft drinks, and for an additional cost, a full bar will be available serving cocktails, beer, and wine. This fantastic performance is sure to become one of your favorite Holiday Traditions!

Ollie Trolley Holiday Lights Tour – Back by popular demand with two Trolleys! (LW)

Enjoy the holidays in style with pick-up and drop-off from Leisure World! Ollie the Trolley’s one-of-a-kind annual Holiday Light Tour is coming to Leisure World for the second year in a row! We will have two trolleys so that everyone can go! They know the most spectacular Christmas light displays in the Valley, and they’ll do all the driving. Space is limited to 30 spots per trolley, so grab some friends and some hot cocoa or cider – and get the whole crew into the Holiday Spirit. Their Jolly trolley operators will guide our three-hour holiday light tour to experience the best Christmas displays in the Valley while playing festive holiday music along the way. Join us for holiday cheer this season and experience the magic of light tours onboard Ollie the Trolley.

Date: Mon., Dec. 16

Cost: $35 per person

Deadline: Fri., Dec. 13

Palm Springs Holiday Hop-On! (KT)

December 19th-20th, 2024

Thursday-Friday

Day One: Hop aboard the Yuletide 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 enjoy Palm Springs’ famous Villagefest— an exciting street fair, just footsteps outside our hotel lobby—promising to be all the more festive just one week before Christmas! 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. Searching for that one-of-a-kind holiday gift? You’ll surely find it in the rows of artist’s booths that showcase handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, paintings and clothing. Shops, galleries and restaurants stay open late, if you’d like to just relax and people watch from a sidewalk café. It’s Palm Springs—you do you!

Day Two: We’ll enjoy a delicious hot breakfast, included, at the hotel, before setting off on a festive journey to explore 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 this jingle bell journey!

Twas the Night BEFORE Christmas Eve Dinner at Durant’s (KT) December 23rd, Monday $184

A true Arizona landmark, Durant’s is famous for its humble pink exterior and backdoor entrance through the kitchen. Once inside, get ready for some oldschool elegance in a private dining room, beautifully decked out for the holidays. We’ll begin our early dinner with a glass of cabernet, chardonnay, or a sparkling prosecco, as well as an appetizer tray served with hot La Brea bread with garlic leek butter. Our second course offers a choice of spinach or Caesar salad. Entrée choices include: 8-oz Slow Roasted Prime Rib, Salmon with Mango Ginger Glaze, Chicken Picatta with Lemon Caper Sauce, and Jumbo Shrimp Scampi with Linguini. All entrees will be served with choice of Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Baked Potato, Rice Pilaf, Waffle Fries or Sweet Potato Fries. We’ll follow it all up with a Celebration Dessert, and coffee, soda and iced tea are included. Later we’ll hop back in the Transits for a smooth sleigh ride through some of the Valley’s most exciting holiday light hotspots. This whirlwind tour includes so much, but we’ll get you home tucked in bed before Santa gets to town! Christmas Eve dinner at Durant’s has always been a Kindred Tours Holiday Classic, so popular that folks call to sign up for it months in advance. This year we’re offering this tour a day earlier to accommodate a larger group. We hope you’ll join us!

The Missions of Southern Arizona (KT)

December 26th, Thursday $125 Journey with us south of Tucson to explore the Missions of Southern Arizona, beginning with Mission San Xavier del Bac—more commonly known as “The White Dove of the Desert.” Considered by many to be the “Sistine Chapel of North America,” Mission San Xavier del Bac is famous for its intricate paintings on the walls and ceiling. Built by early Spanish missionaries, San Xavier del Bac is one of several adobe chapels and missions in a chain that once stretched from northern Mexico to the western United States. Still a Catholic parish, Mission San Xavier del Bac continues to serve the Tohono O’odham community for whom it was established in the late 1600’s. Later, back in the Transits, we’ll continue south to the charming artist’s hamlet of Tubac, home to interesting shops, galleries and wonderful little restaurants. We’ll take some time to explore the streets of Tubac and enjoy lunch on self, before traveling just three miles to Tumacacori National Historic Park—home to San Jose de Tumacacori. This massive and haunting ruin was originally built around 1800 by Franciscan priests. Abandoned before completion, and later gutted by Apache warriors and various fortune hunters, San Jose de Tumacacori serves as a fascinating reminder of early American and Spanish history.

Trips

$449 (Double Occupancy) $104 (Single Supplement)

San Xavier del Bac Mission, Tucson. Photo Credit: Bree Evans

Trips and Tours continued from B15

Tombstone & Bisbee (KT)

December 28th, Saturday $115

Entertain your out-of-town guests this holiday season with this wild west tour to Tombstone—where they wanna go, then to Bisbee—where they oughta go!

We’ll head south, with a stop for coffee & goodies, on our way to “The Town Too Tough To Die.” Tombstone, with its rowdy, drunken, bullet riddled past, is home to several great little restaurants, including the world-famous Big Nose Kate’s Saloon. Lunch is on self at the restaurant of your choice and afterwards we’ll take a little time to stroll the very same blood-soaked streets as Wild Bill Hickok, Doc Holliday, Johnny Ringo, and Wyatt Earp—just to name a few! Later we’ll jump back in the Transits headed for Bisbee. Founded in 1880, driven by a booming mining industry, Bisbee became a thriving community nearly overnight. Now a living ghost town, Bisbee is home to interesting shops and galleries, terrific restaurants and neighborhoods full of artfully restored Victorian and European-style homes. We’ll spend some time exploring the downtown area and the Brewery Gulch District, before visiting some of Bisbee’s most notable sites, including St. Patrick’s Catholic Church—a magnificent monument to Bisbee’s early residents who wanted to transform a mining camp into one of the largest commercial centers in Arizona. Located 90 miles southeast of Tucson in the Mule Mountains, Bisbee draws visitors from around the world.

ZooLights (KT)

December 30th, Monday $110

We’re on our way to the Phoenix Zoo, but don’t expect to see any live animals. Animals created from lights are the star of this show! With almost four million lights and 700 light sculptures, this great festival just keeps getting better, offering the wonderful holiday displays that we’ve grown to love, including MUSIC IN MOTION featuring the music from the movie Polar Express and CAROL OF THE BELLS by Arctic Express. We’ll begin with an early dinner on self, at Portillo’s, located at Tempe Marketplace. This wildly popular eatery is a Chicagoland favorite since 1963, when Dick Portillo invested $1,100 into a small trailer to open the first Portillo’s hot dog stand in Villa Park, Illinois. Today the Portillo’s menu includes their famous Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, chopped salad, cheese fries, and homemade chocolate cake. The Italian beef is slow-roasted for four hours, thinly sliced, and served on freshly baked French bread. Then, it’s dipped in hot gravy made with their homemade blend of seasonings that they’ve been perfecting for 50 years. Ask for the Chicago-style hot dog “dragged through the garden” and you’ll understand what all the hype is about! This tour’s gonna be a blast! Don’t miss it.

New Year’s Eve at the Silver Star Theatre (KT)

December 31st, Tuesday $169 Ring in the New Year at the Silver Star Theatre, Arizona’s premier dinner and show venue. We’ve scored fabulous seats—front and center—at this multimillion-dollar facility featuring tiered seating with unobstructed views and state of the art sound and lighting. We’ll begin with a delicious holiday feast, served buffet style, topped off with a big slice of chocolate devil’s food cake. Later, kick back in comfortable seating to enjoy Silver Star’s wildly popular Variety Show. Foot stompin’ fun, this show offers something for absolutely everyone, featuring music through the decades—Rock & Roll, Country, Big Band and Pop Classics—all performed by masterful musicians. We’ll wrap up the

evening with a champagne toast with the East Coast at 10:00 p.m.. A full bar serving specialty cocktails, wine and beer will be available and on self. Holiday Tours fill fast—make your reservations!

JANUARY

The Mini Time Machine Museum (KT)

January 2nd, Thursday $157

Discover the magical world of miniatures at The Mini Time Machine Museum, where visitors are seemingly transported to different lands and times through the stories told by more than 500 miniature houses and room boxes, expertly displayed in over 10,000 square-feet of state-ofthe-art exhibit space. The Museum’s permanent collection boasts antique dollhouses dating back hundreds of years, contemporary fine-scale miniatures and enchanting collectibles. Special exhibitions mean that there is always something new to see. The Chicago Tribune has claimed; “The magic of this place cannot be overstated.” Prior to visiting the museum we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch, included, at Tandem American Eatery. Conveniently located just a few miles from the museum, Tandem is a fantastic stop when visiting Tucson, offering a menu that runs from gourmet burgers to signature sandwiches, great pasta dishes, daily specials and more.

This tour is back by popular demand— don’t miss it!

Historic Yuma (KT))

January 3rd, Friday $131

Eighty years before the Pilgrims stepped foot on Plymouth Rock, Europeans were living in Yuma—the safest place to cross the mighty Colorado River for hundreds of miles. Yuma is rich with multicultural heritage and amazing historic sites, including the notorious Yuma Territorial Prison, our first stop on this exciting tour. Authorized in 1875, with a construction budget of $25,000, the Yuma Territorial Prison only operated for 33 years, but that was long enough to leave behind a fearsome legacy. A total of 3,069 prisoners, 29 of them women, lived within the prison’s granite walls, surrounded by the powerful Colorado River and the unforgiving desert. After exploring the prison, we’ll head to the Colorado River State Historic Park—home to the Yuma Quartermaster Depot—once the beating heart of all military outposts in the American Southwest. At this site, beginning in 1864, on high ground above the Colorado River, the U.S. Army warehoused a six-month supply of food, clothing and ammunition for forts in Arizona, Utah, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas, along with more than 900 mules and their teamsters. Ocean vessels brought goods to the Gulf of California, where they were transferred to steamboats for the trip upriver to Yuma, then later dispersed overland by the legendary 20-mule teams. We’ll explore these historic sites, along with downtown Yuma, and we’ll stop by Lute’s Casino for lunch on self. A great favorite with the locals, Lute’s was built in 1901 as a general store, turned into a pool hall in 1920, and is now a no-frills greasy spoon—dishing up cheeseburgers, sandwiches and some traditional Mexican dishes. There is much to explore in Historic Yuma—don’t miss out on the fun!

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

$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

Dolly Steamboat offers sightseeing and dinner cruises on Canyon Lake, Tortilla Flat, just outside of Mesa. Photo Credit: Dolly Steamboat

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

Some Like It Hot 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 SongAnd-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

Price: $125 per person

Deadline: Mon., Jan. 13

MARCH

Wicked

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 emerald-green 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

Price: $145 per person

Deadline: Mon., Feb. 3

APRIL

Monument Valley & Canyon de Chelly April 27th-29th, 2025

$799 (Based Upon Double Occupancy)

$199 Single Supplement

Day One: We’ll travel north, with a stop for lunch on self at Cameron Trading Post. A haven for travelers since 1916, this trading post boasts an expansive dining room, with a huge stone fireplace and tall picture windows, offering a view of the Little Colorado River Gorge. We’ll enjoy the ambience, along with a

terrific menu that runs from burgers to salads, and includes local favorites, such as Navajo tacos and stews. After lunch we’ll explore the Grand Canyon via the East Entrance at Desert View, offering a unique opportunity to visit the worldfamous Desert View Watchtower. Later we’ll travel to Kayenta, Arizona and check into the Kayenta Hampton Inn, home to Reuben Helflin’s Restaurant, where we’ll enjoy dinner on self.

Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel. After breakfast we’re off to the visitor’s center where we’ll pile into jeeps for a 2.5 hour tour, covering more than 30 miles of secluded back-country to discover the restricted areas of Monument Valley, a sacred homeland to the Navajo, who are the Keepers of Monument Valley. We’ll learn about the history of the Anasazi, early Native American peoples, famously known for their petroglyphs, pictographs and their spectacular cliff dwellings. We’ll visit all of the famous monoliths of Monument Valley—The Mittens, John Ford’s Point, Three Sisters, North Window, Totem Pole, Yei Bi Cheis and Artist’s Point. These are the real life backdrops for Hollywood Westerns such as Stagecoach, The Searchers, How the West was Won, and so many more! Afterwards we’ll enjoy lunch on self at the visitor’s center. Midafternoon it’s back in the Transits, and we’ll head for Canyon de Chelly, pronounced canyon duh shay, where we’ll check into the Thunderbird Lodge. Owned and operated by the Navajo Nation, the historic Thunderbird Lodge will be our cozy headquarters for the night. We’ll take some time for a refresh before heading out. We’ll visit the South Rim of Canyon de Chelly and we’ll experience the sunset highlighting Spider Rock. Later we’ll return to the hotel restaurant for dinner, on self. Thunderbird Lodge sits on the site

of a trading post that was built in 1896. The restaurant, housed in the trading post’s original building, famously serves traditional Native American dishes, along with American favorites.

Day Three: Breakfast is on self at the hotel. After breakfast jeeps will arrive to take us on a half-day tour of Canyon de Chelly. We’ll be led by our Navajo guide, who will explain the significance of manmade structures and symbols while also sharing the natural points of interest. Heavy-duty six-wheel-drive touring vehicles are equipped with padded seats to provide a good experience. The tours stop frequently for photo opportunities, to visit ancient sites, Navajo farms and rock art. When the tour is over we’ll head back to the hotel for lunch, on self. After lunch it’s back in the Transits, and we’ll head for home with plenty of great sightseeing along the way.

MAY

Mamma Mia!

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

Price: $130 per person

Deadline: Mon., April 28

Canyon de Chelly. Photo Credit: Rich Martello

November Group Exercise Class Registrations Begins Tues., November 3rd at 7:00 a.m., online, in-person or by phone.

Forever Fit

We would like to kindly remind you to let the fitness team know about any insurance changes that may occur at the start of the new year. If you foresee this happening, please let us know PRIOR so we can change it in our system. Failure to let the fitness staff know may lead to charges for group exercise classes.

Karen Larson

Forever Fit is a low impact workout that incorporates whole body movement training to build strength, improve balance, and increase range of motion to help you stay Forever Fit! Many participants have raved about the results they’ve seen from this class and have even shared that this course has given them results they have not seen in similar classes such as Strength and Balance. Forever Fit is a level two course, whereas its counterpart Strength and Balance is a level one. This class is perfect for those who are looking to improve their balance while still getting a full body workout but may be too advanced for the simplistic routine of Strength and Balance.

Forever Fit 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. In this class you will also learn how to successfully get on and off of the floor with or without a chair as needed.

To register, please call the Aquatic & Athletic Sports Club at (480) 8320000 ext. 212 or visit www.lwca.com. Enrollment for this course is priced at $30/ month or $5/ class. Forever Fit is scheduled MWF from 9-9:45 AM. Insurances under Renew, Flex, or Silver and Fit are accepted. Please note, each class must meet a minimum enrollment of 5 participants, otherwise it will be canceled and removed from the group exercise schedule.

In 2002, my husband Dave and I moved full time into Leisure World from Washington State after visiting his folks here for several years, knowing that this is where we wanted to retire. We have four great children, three in Washington State and one in Wisconsin. As an added benefit we also have four grandchildren ages 8 to 22.

We’ve seen many changes in Leisure World over the years, but truly feel the best improvement made was building the existing fitness center from two small rooms (male and female) into the great facility it is today. Over the years I have made great use of the fitness center and participated in many of the different classes. I especially enjoy the two Aqua Fit classes offered and attend all year long. We also have the benefit of great instructors who really care about the residents of Leisure World. I am very happy to be a Leisure World Resident.

Machine Orientation

Binder

LeBaron Fitness Specialist

Cherie Dammen Fitness Administrative Assistant

MEET & EATS

Tozer Lee Eye Center

Ageing diseases of the eye and what to about it with Kevin Tozer, MD Cataract Surgeon!

December 5th Thursday

12pm - 1pm

REC 1

Lunch Provided

Skin and Cancer Institute

Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology of Mesa

Kristen Peterson FNP-C will be teaching us how to care for and love the skin we are in!

Friday December 6th

Rec. 1 Theatre

12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

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.

Tuesday, December 10th

Rec. 1 Theatre

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm

Performance Physio

Topic: Low Back Pain and Sciatica

What you will learn:

• Common causes of low back pain and sciatica

• What areas are usually tight and weak with back pain

• Why hip, leg and core strength is important in preventing and treating back pain.

• Best exercises to start wiithto prevent pain and support joints

• How to choose the best exercises or activity for you that will help you stay active, healthy & promote pain free living

Thursday December 12

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Rec. 1 Theatre Room

Cruise Planners

Join Cruise Planner, Gary Klayman, in a complimentary presentation on Cruise Planners services! Your next vaction awaits!

Friday, December 13th

1-2PM

Theater

Lunch Provided

Yamaha Motor

Narrow the Gap between Life Span & Health Span! Join Yamaha Motor in a complimentary presentation on their new Modern Aging development, an app that gets better with age! Designed to approach aging through individualized data and multi-dimensional analysis. Functional and easy to use.

Wednesday, December 18th

12-1PM

Theater Lunch Provided

Right Path Health Screenings

Comprehensive Health Screenings consisting of 11 cardiovascular and abdominal screenings. We also check your blood pressure, pulse and blood oxygen level. A complete report is provided.

Contact the Fitness Center at 480-832-0000 ext 212 for more information.

Monday, December 30th

The fitness staff will be handing out Christmas goody bags for children ages 3-6 & 7-11.

WHEN: December 2nd- December 13th

WHERE: Fitness Center front desk TIME: 8am-5pm

In the attempt to spread the good cheer, residents are kindly asked to take TWO per household on a first come first serve basis.

4:00

December Group Exercise Schedule*

December 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- Friday’s 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.

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

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 AM $5/class 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 Fundamentals T/Th 9:00AM - 9:45 PM – This class is designed to teach you how to properly use the TRX suspension trainer. This tool is excellent for increasing strength and improving body awareness. Your instructor will break down form, technique, and introduce exercises that will improve daily function. $5/class or $25/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

• Fitness Center will be unstaffed December 24th & December 25th in observance of Christmas Eve & Christmas Day.

• Any Insurance changes in 2025, please notify the Fitness Desk so we can make changes.

• Notice: No Hydro Rider or Hydro Spin in JANUARY due to cooler weather.

• Notice: No Aqua Fit classes in January due to cooler weather.

• NO fitness classes after December 13th. Class prices have been prorated for ½ of the month.

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1

Rec.1 Classroom

$5/

Rec.1 Classroom

7.

Rec.2 Pima Room

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec.1 Classroom

Rec. 1 Sport Court/ Rec 1 Classroom

https://www.healthline.com/health/ holiday-stress

Do your shoulders instantly tense up at the thought of the hustle and bustle of the holiday season? Does your heart skip a beat when you think about spending the entire day with your extended family during the most wonderful time of the year? Does the thought of holiday overspending keep you up at night?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’re not alone. Money and family responsibilities are some of the top sources of stress in the United States. Before the stress of the holidays sneaks up on you, read on to learn how to enjoy your most stress-free holiday season yet.

What is holiday stress?

Holiday stress can affect anyone, even children. There are a lot of expectations around the holidays. Many people associate the holidays with social gatherings, rituals, and happy memories. These expectations can lead to stress.

Causes of holiday stress

It can quickly become overwhelming to make every meal award-worthy, and every wrapped gift look perfect. Finding the time to attend every party or feeling like you haven’t been invited to enough parties can also cause stress.

There’s also a desire to cram in every tradition and event to make sure each day is memorable. When you add in the financial burden, travel, and visiting family members, stress can pile up quickly. The holidays can also be a difficult time

6 Tips for Managing Holiday Stress

of year for people who have lost friends and family members. The memory of the loss can make it harder to cope with holiday season stressors.

Symptoms

Holiday stress looks much the same as regular day-to-day stress. It can affect the body in many different ways. Symptoms can include the following:

Anxiety

Sadness

Headaches

Body aches

Inability to sleep

Irritability

Do certain situations cause you to feel overwhelmed? When you feel stressed, stop and try to consider what may be causing your anxiety. Once you understand your triggers, use these simple tips to limit holiday stressors.

1. Plan ahead

Finding time for all of your holiday activities can be tricky. On top of holiday commitments, you may also have to deal with increased traffic. Or you may feel extra pressure to get ahead of work so you can take time off to travel. Creating an action plan can help relieve stress. Write down all the things you need to do so you can prioritize the things that are most important. A list also makes it harder for things to slip your mind.

2. Put yourself first

The act of giving gets so much attention during the holidays it can be easy to forget to give back to yourself. Taking care of yourself can help make it easier for you to take

care of others. Set aside some time to do things you enjoy. Find time to exercise, plan a dinner out, or just get a few minutes of fresh air. And don’t forget the importance of a regular good night’s sleep.

3. Keep your finances in check

If you’re worried about spending and how it will affect you after the holidays are over, be realistic about what you can afford. The sentiment behind a gift is more important than the cost.

no. Try to say “yes” to the events and things you know will bring you joy. Say “no” to obligations you know will cause you heartache and disappointment.

Create a budget and stick to it. Spend only what you can afford, and if you don’t have the ability to spend anything, bake a treat or offer your talents and time to your friends and loved ones.

4. Honor loved ones you have lost It may be difficult to celebrate the holiday season if you’ve lost someone dear to you or distance makes it difficult to spend time together. Spend this holiday season reflecting on special memories of lost loved ones. Consider doing something meaningful in their honor. And if you’re unable to spend time with loved ones, volunteer your time to a local organization where your smiling face could change someone’s day.

5. Don’t be afraid to say no Understand that it’s okay to say

If working a few extra hours of overtime will make you happy so you can treat someone you love, it may be worth doing. But if your boundary-crossing relative invites you to a holiday party, feel free to decline. You’ll experience less stress and worry by saying no.

Takeaway

When it comes to stress, it’s important to listen to what your body and mind are telling you. If a situation is too stressful, ask yourself why you feel the way you do and consider what you can do to better manage your stress.

By learning how to cope with day-today stress, you can be better prepared to tackle holiday stress.

• Rehydrate

• Unclog pores

• Improve imperfec ons

• Maintain

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!

CLINICAL STUDIES REVEAL:

The debilitating pain, numbness and tingling experienced by patients su ering from Peripheral Neuropathy can be successfully treated WITHOUT THE USE OF DRUGS AND SURGERY

IN THIS

CUTTING-EDGE

FREE SEMINAR YOU’LL LEARN:

• Why many current treatments for neuropathy don’t work.

• The underlying causes of peripheral neuropathy, and the key to prevention!

• The Nobel prize winning discovery that every neuropathy patient MUST know.

• How peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed, and when it can be successfully treated.

• A technology originally developed by NASA that decreases neuropathy symptoms.

• Advanced diagnostic testing to help determine if your condition can be treated.

• A simple home therapy that is used by some of the largest specialty hospitals in the country to treat certain types of neuropathy.

TUESDAY December 10th @11:30AM

INTEGRITY NEUROPATHY CENTER 1122 S GREENFIELD RD, #102, MESA

LUNCH WILL BE SERVED. SPACE IS LIMITED TO 15! RSVP: BY Dec 9th @ (480) 820-9147

DR. AARON T SHAPIRO, DC, BCN

Monster Run/Walk 2024- Recap

Thanks to everyone who came out for our Monster Run/Walk! We had nearly 60 participants with ages ranging from 5-71. We had 1st-3rd place costume winners and 1st-3rd place runners! A special thanks to our volunteers for your support and our sponsors Frys and Banner Help for their contributions.

Why White Noise May Help You Get Your Best Sleep Ever

https://www.healthline.com/health/ sleep/why-white-noise-may-help-youget-your-best-sleep-ever#benefits

There’s nothing quite like waking up and feeling refreshed and ready for the day ahead.

Unfortunately, many people struggle in snoozeville. One reason may be the fact that it’s difficult to create the ideal sleep environment: cool, calm, light-free, and quiet.

White noise machines can help with at least one part of this equation. They provide steady, continuous noise that blocks out all the other stuff, like sirens, barking dogs, and your roommate’s TV. There’s even some science to back up the fact that white noise machines can give you sounder sleep.

Read on to get the details on how this simple sleep tech works.

What is white noise?

White noise is a combination of various sounds at different frequencies that are audible to the human ear.

It can often sound like hissing or a “SHHHH” sound, similar to television or radio static.

You may have even heard white noise machines in a doctor’s or therapist’s office. In these settings, they help keep sessions private.

Researchers have found white noise helps people not only get to sleep but also stay asleep.

“White noise is more than just recordings of ocean waves and rain sounds,” says Molly Szkotak, community manager at Yogasleep. “Sonically, white noise is a collection of sounds that has the same intensity through the audible range, creating a uniform sound perfect for masking loud disruptions.”

This masking effect helps block out other sounds so you can sleep.

White vs. pink noise

Similar to white noise, pink noise consists of all the frequencies audible to the human ear.

However, the energy isn’t evenly distributed among them, and there’s more intensity of lower frequencies, creating a deep and even sound.

Examples of pink sounds include:

Rustling leaves Steady rain falling

Strong wind Waves crashing on a beach

How white and pink noise can help you sleep

White or pink noise can help people sleep by blocking out outside sounds and masking disruptive sounds.

Research has found that sleep disturbances caused by noise pollution have health consequences for our biological systems. Both duration and quality of sleep can be impacted by outside noises. It creates a buffer between outside noise and your eardrums so you can keep snoozing peacefully, despite what’s going on around you.

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!

“So much of good sleep hygiene is establishing a good nighttime routine,” says Szkotak. “Following a nightly ritual like winding down with a book, switching on the sound machine, and settling into your bed for the night signals to your brain and body that it’s time to rest.”

“It’s a little bit of a Pavlovian response to the sound of the white noise,” Szkotak adds. “After it helps you fall asleep, white noise also helps you stay asleep by blocking out any noises or loud disturbances that may wake you up.”

This is especially useful for those who live in the city. Traffic, neighborhood noises, and aircraft sounds are all sources of sleep disruption.

Additionally, white noise can help those who work the night shift and need to sleep during the day or live with housemates on different sleeping schedules.

A 2021 study Trusted Source found that white noise significantly improved sleep for people who experience difficulty sleeping due to high levels of environmental noise. It concluded that the application of white noise may be an effective tool in helping to improve sleep in metropolitan areas.

Furthermore, a 2012 study Trusted Source found that steady pink noise can increase stable sleep by reducing brain activity. A 2017 study showed a positive link between deep sleep and pink noise.

Find a white noise machine There are a range of sleep machines

that emit white noise to help with sleep, and some are even geared specifically for helping babies sleep.

For example, the Dohm Classic Natural Sound Machine by Yogasleep has two speed options for adjustable tone and volume so you can find a soothing sound you enjoy. This will mask background noises, like boisterous housemates or cars on the highway.

Another option is the Dreamegg D1 Sound Machine. It features 24 sounds, including white, pink, ocean waves, rain, and campfire, plus a night light, headphone jack, and timer.

The Whish Multi-Sound Machine from Yogasleep boasts multi-sleep sounds including chimes, sleep songs, nature sounds, and meditation soundtracks. There are also multiple apps you can download, including the hugely popular Bedtime Fan for Apple devices or White Noise Generator for Android.

The bottom line

White noise machines may help you get a better-quality night’s sleep by masking environmental or outside noises that are causing disturbed sleep. They not only can help you get to sleep but also stay asleep and may even help to train your brain to know when it’s time to snooze.

White noise is a simple way to create an environment that supports your best sleep.

Vitality Fair Photos

The Vitality Fair took place November 8th, 2024. Our vendors had many raffles, samples, and goodies to share! Over 500 residents participated in local company awareness to learn about many opportunities to enhance their lives physically, emotionally, and mentally. Thank you to our resident volunteers for their assistance and our sponsors Banner Health, Optum, V-Juv, Fry’s Food Stores, Brookdale Senior Living, Healthcare Pilots, The Flower Shop, Devoted Guardians Home Care, and Evernorth Health.

https://www.healthline.com/health/ sleep-hygiene#electronic-devices

Developing certain habits, like keeping a consistent schedule and limiting blue light exposure before bed, can improve your sleep hygiene and promote quality sleep.

Do you ever find yourself staring at the ceiling, wondering if you’ll ever fall asleep? Or maybe you wake up thinking it’s time to get up, but it’s actually 2 a.m.?

If you’re in need of better sleep, it may be time to consider your sleep hygiene — and how your habits may be preventing you from getting the quality sleep you need.

Let’s get into what sleep hygiene is and the changes you can make to your daytime and bedtime habits to improve your sleep.

What is sleep hygiene?

Sleep hygiene refers to healthy sleep habits that help you get a good night’s sleep.

Good sleep hygiene is important because of how crucial getting good sleep is for your mental and physical health, as well as your overall quality of life.

Your behavior during the day — not just before you go to bed — can affect how well you sleep. This can include food and drink choices, schedule, evening routine.

If you don’t sleep well, you can take several steps, both during the day and before you go to bed, to improve your sleep.

Let’s take a closer look at 12 ways to improve your sleep hygiene for better sleep.

1. Keep a consistent sleep schedule

Try to go to sleep and wake up at about the same time every day — even on weekends. This reinforces your body’s sleep cycle (your internal clock), which can make it easier for you to fall asleep and wake up every day.

Sticking to a consistent schedule may also help reduce daytime sleepiness. Make sure that the bedtime you pick allows you to get 7– 8 hours of sleep each night.

2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine — and stick with it

A relaxing bedtime routine helps you unwind so you’re ready to sleep. Keeping the routine consistent helps your body recognize that it’s bedtime

12 Healthy Sleep Hygiene Tips

when you start the routine. This may help you fall asleep more quickly.

The best time to start your routine is about 30– 60 minutes before you go to bed.

Your routine can include whatever makes you feel most relaxed unless it involves a device that emits blue light.

Here are some ideas:

Take a warm bath or shower. Not only is the water relaxing in the moment, but the drop in your body temperature as you cool down afterward may make you feel sleepy.

Try some gentle stretches or yoga to help your muscles relax and release tension.

Spend a few minutes meditating to help calm your body and mind.

Try listening to some soothing music while you focus on your breathing.

Spend time reading a book but try to avoid electronic reading devices that emit blue light.

Avoid anything stressful or overly stimulating, like emotional conversations or working.

3. Turn off electronic devices before you go to sleep

Electronic devices like your phone emit blue light, which can reduce melatonin levels in your body. It’s similar to how seeing sunlight can make you feel more awake.

Melatonin is a chemical that controls your sleep/wake cycle. When your levels dip, it can be more difficult to fall asleep.

Devices that emit blue light can also keep your brain alert, making it harder to fall asleep.

Keeping your phone near your bed can disrupt your sleep, even if you’re not aware of it. Message notifications, buzzing, and light that can suddenly pop on in the middle of the night can interrupt your sleep.

4. Exercise regularly

As little as 30 minutes of aerobic exercise per day can improve your sleep quality and overall health. Exercising outside might increase the benefits even more since exposure to natural light helps regulate your sleep cycle.

If you can’t get outside, don’t worry. Regular indoor exercise can also help you sleep better.

But avoid exercising within an hour or two of your bedtime. This can increase your energy levels and body temperature, which may make it harder to fall asleep.

If you want to do some type of activity later in the day, try doing stretches or yoga.

5. Limit your caffeine intake

The effects of caffeine can last 3–7 hoursTrusted Source after you consume it. This means that your afternoon cup of coffee may keep you awake and alert a lot longer than you’d like.

Although it’s usually best to limit your caffeine intake to the morning hours, keep in mind that everyone has

a different tolerance to caffeine. Some people may be able to stretch their consumption to midafternoon, while others might need to cut themselves off much earlier in order to fall asleep easily.

The less caffeine you consume, the more sensitive you may be to its effects.

6. Make your sleep environment work for you

The way you set up your sleep environment may help you fall asleep and stay asleep more easily.

For most people, a bedroom temperature between 60 and 67°F (15.6 and 19.4°C) is the optimal temperature for sleeping.

It’s also important to make sure you have a comfortable mattress, pillows, and bed linens. The more comfortable you are, the easier it may be to fall asleep and stay asleep. Want suggestions? Browse our market, filled with editor-trusted and expert-verified pillow and mattress recommendations.

If you’re a light sleeper or have noisy neighbors, a good pair of earplugs or a white noise machine may help you sleep without disruption.

Also, if your bedroom gets flooded with too much light, you may want to consider using blackout curtains or an eye mask to keep your sleep environment as dark as possible.

By Heidi Godman, Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter

Retrieved from Harvard Health Publishing

The holiday season is one of the hardest times of the year to resist salty, fatty, sugary foods. Who doesn’t want to enjoy the special dishes and treats that evoke memories and meaning — especially during the pandemic? Physical distancing and canceled gatherings may make you feel that indulging is a way to pull some joy out of the season.

But stay strong. While it’s okay to have an occasional bite or two of marbled roast beef, buttery mashed potatoes, or chocolate pie, gorging on them frequently can lead to weight gain, and increased blood pressure, blood sugar, and “bad” LDL cholesterol.

Instead, skip the butter, cream, sugar, and salt, and flavor your foods with herbs and spices.

The bounty of nature’s flavor-makers go beyond enticing tastes, scents, and colors. Many herbs and spices contain  antioxidants,  flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds that may help control blood sugar,  mood, and inflammation

Amp up holiday foods with herbs and spices

Try flavoring your foods with some of the herbs and spices in the list below.

21 Spices for Healthy Holiday Foods

Play food chemist and experiment with combinations you haven’t tried before. The more herbs and spices you use, the greater the flavor and health rewards. And that’s a gift you can enjoy all year through.

Allspice: Use in breads, desserts, and cereals; pairs well with savory dishes, such as soups, sauces, grains, and vegetables.

Basil: Slice into salads, appetizers, and side dishes; enjoy in pesto over pasta and in sandwiches.

Cardamom: Good in breads and baked goods, and in Indian dishes, such as curry.

Cilantro: Use to season Mexican, Southwestern, Thai, and Indian foods.

Cinnamon: Stir into fruit compotes, baked desserts, and breads, as well as Middle Eastern savory dishes.

Clove: Good in baked goods and breads, but also pairs with vegetable and bean dishes.

Cumin: Accents Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern dishes, as well as stews and chili.

Dill weed: Include in potato dishes, salads, eggs, appetizers, and dips.

Garlic: Add to soups, pastas, marinades, dressings, grains, and vegetables.

Ginger: Great in Asian and Indian sauces, stews, and stir-fries, as well as beverages and baked goods.

Marjoram: Add to stews, soups, potatoes, beans, grains, salads, and sauces.

Mint: Flavors savory dishes, beverages, salads, marinades, and fruits.

Nutmeg: Stir into fruits, baked goods, and vegetable dishes.

Oregano: Delicious in Italian and Mediterranean dishes; it suits tomato, pasta, grain dishes, and salads.

Parsley: Enjoy in soups, pasta dishes, salads, and sauces.

Pepper (black, white, red): Seasons soups, stews, vegetable dishes, grains, pastas, beans, sauces, and salads.

Rosemary: Try it in vegetables, salads, vinaigrettes, and pasta dishes.

Sage: Enhances grains, breads, dressings, soups, and pastas.

Tarragon: Add to sauces, marinades, salads, and bean dishes.

Thyme: Excellent in soups, tomato dishes, salads, and vegetables.

Turmeric: Essential in Indian foods; pairs well with soups, beans, and vegetables.

By: Dan Yoder Head Golf Professional

GOLF DEPARTMENT

Mastering the Mental Side of Golf: A Guide to Unlocking Your Potential on the Course

Golf has often been described as a game played on a five-inch course — the space between your ears. No matter how refined your swing or how far you can drive the ball, success on the course hinges heavily on mental fortitude. Unlike many sports where physical prowess can often compensate for lapses in concentration, golf demands complete mental engagement. To truly excel, you must not only conquer the greens but your own mind as well. Here’s how to strengthen the psychological side of your game.

1. Cultivate a Pre-Shot Routine.

A consistent pre-shot routine acts as a mental trigger, signaling your brain to focus on the task at hand. When done correctly, it helps eliminate distractions, reduce anxiety, and establish a consistent approach for every shot. PGA pros are known for their meticulous routines — from taking a few practice swings, aligning with their target, or even visualizing the shot’s trajectory. Find a routine that works for you, and stick to it religiously. This habit will serve as a mental anchor, keeping you calm and collected under pressure.

2. Stay Present and Focused.

Dwelling on a bad shot or worrying about future holes is a recipe for disaster. The key is to stay present. When you step up to the ball, forget about what just happened or what might come next; the only thing that matters is this shot. This mindfulness

approach, often discussed in sports psychology, helps clear your mind, allowing you to perform at your best without the baggage of previous mistakes or anxiety about upcoming shots. To practice this, consider incorporating a breathing exercise before each shot. Take a slow, deep breath to calm your nerves and bring your focus solely to the present moment.

3. Develop Emotional Resilience.

body to execute the shot with greater precision. Positive visualization also bolsters self-confidence, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy of success.

5. Embrace the Pressure.

Golf is a game of ups and downs, where even the best players experience bad breaks and unexpected outcomes. It’s crucial to stay emotionally steady. When a shot doesn’t go as planned, acknowledge your frustration but let it go quickly. Dwelling on errors only compounds negative emotions and can spiral into poor decisionmaking. Instead, treat each setback as a learning opportunity. Analyze what went wrong after the round and leave any negativity on the course. This approach keeps your confidence intact, allowing you to rebound effectively.

4. Visualize Success.

Visualization is a powerful tool used by elite athletes across many sports. Before you hit a shot, take a moment to picture exactly what you want to happen. See the ball’s path, the landing spot, and even how it will react upon impact. This mental rehearsal primes your mind and

For many golfers, the pressure of a crucial putt or a tight competition can lead to a complete mental meltdown. However, pressure is not inherently negative; it’s a sign that something important is on the line. The key is to embrace these moments as opportunities to grow. One effective technique is to reframe pressure as excitement rather than fear. Tell yourself that you thrive in high-stakes situations and use the adrenaline as fuel to sharpen your focus. By changing how you perceive pressure, you can transform it into a catalyst for peak performance.

6. Maintain a Positive Inner Dialogue. Your inner voice can be your greatest ally or your worst enemy. Golfers often fall into the trap of self-criticism after a poor shot, muttering phrases like “I’m terrible” or “I always miss those.” Negative self-talk erodes confidence over time. Instead, practice positive affirmation and constructive feedback. Replace “I can’t” with “I will.” Remind yourself that everyone makes mistakes and that every shot is an opportunity to recover. Cultivating a kind and encouraging inner dialogue builds resilience and fortifies your mental game.

7. Set Realistic Expectations.

Many golfers become frustrated because they expect perfection. The truth is, even professionals miss fairways, flub chips, and leave putts short. Accepting that mistakes are part of the game is liberating and helps reduce performance anxiety. Set realistic goals for yourself — whether it’s hitting more fairways, reducing three-putts, or simply enjoying the game more. When you shift your focus from perfection to progress, you’re more likely to enjoy the journey and stay mentally grounded.

8. Practice Under Pressure.

To excel mentally on the course, simulate high-pressure situations during practice. Challenge yourself with competitive drills, such as “mustmake” putts or scenarios where you’re trailing by a stroke. This mental conditioning trains you to manage nerves and focus when the stakes are high. The more you expose yourself to pressure in practice, the easier it becomes to handle the course.

Golf’s mental component is often what separates good players from great ones. By developing a strong pre-shot routine, staying present, building emotional resilience, visualizing success, and reframing pressure, you can transform your mental approach to the game. Remember, it’s not just about how well you strike the ball; it’s about how well you master your mind. Embrace the challenge and unlock the mental edge that will take your game to the next level.

Shane Romesburg Golf Operations Manager Dan Yoder Head Golf Pro

LADIES CORNER

Chip/Pitch Shot

By: Lisa Cornelius Assistant Golf Professional

There’s nothing more frustrating than almost reaching the green in a respectable number of strokes and then taking just as many or more strokes to hole out! I’m not a big statistical advocate in my teaching, but I will on occasion let my students who are frustrated with their short game know that at least 57% of all shots they hit on the golf course come from chipping and putting.

Based solely on feedback, I can honestly say that most people do not spend enough quality time practicing their short game. One reason is: “I don’t know what I’m doing or how to fix it.” Hopefully, this segment will give you some insight and clarity to help save some strokes around the green.

Fear of the shot because of uncertainty is the biggest contributor to a poor chip or pitch. When fear sets in, the hands get tight and the club stops moving through

the ball. When the club stops moving freely through the ball, your shots become more erratic and inconsistent. There are a few drills you can do to free up the club motion and keep it moving more freely through the ball.

Stand with your feet closer together, and practice swinging the club in a pendulum-type motion while moving the club head equal distances back and through. When your stance gets too wide on a shorter chip shot for example, your tendency is to decelerate, meaning too big of a back swing will promote more of a stopping, jab-type motion at the ball. Even on a greenside chip, the club must continue moving through the ball and down the target line. Like a putt, the key is a shorter backswing, which allows more acceleration through the ball. Concentrate on your grip pressure.

Fear creates tension, and the tension starts in your hands, more specifically, your dominant hand. Whether or not you realize it, if you’re hitting inconsistent

GOLF CLUBS

Heron Lakes 18 Hole Women’s Golf Club

Our 18-hole Golf Club began weekly league play on November 7, which was a beautiful day, especially compared to the hot summer experienced by those who stay in Leisure World year-round. November 14 was our first General Meeting for the year as well as our yearly Welcome Back party, which was enjoyed by all. November 21 was the last day we played in November since we did not play Thanksgiving Day.

December 5 our Monthly General Meeting will be at 11:30 a.m. As usual, we sell 50/50 raffle tickets and sign up for chip-ins and Birdies before the meeting, so please come early and avoid the rush. League play begins at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 12 will be our Annual Christmas event, and we will be joined by the Nine Hole Ladies. Be sure to sign up on the appropriate sheet on the bulletin board if you plan to attend and/or play golf. This is very important so that we have sufficient food for everyone attending.

In order to play in our League Play, you are reminded to sign up on Tuesday before the Thursday of play. It is wise to be at the golf course by 12:30 p.m. to purchase 50/50 raffle tickets ($1.00 each) and pay for your chance at chipins and Birdies (a quarter each) and to pair up with your group. We are asked to take two carts per foursome and three carts per fivesome. Please remember to preserve our course as much as possible by keeping your carts on the cart path while teeing off as well as while putting and to carry sand on your cart for fixing divots.

We welcome all players to join our league. This is a very fun group of ladies! There is a wide range of ability in our group, so there are no worries if you will fit in. If you wish to join the Heron

shots, it’s because of your grip pressure. Pretend like you’re cradling an egg. Keep your hands loose, and make sure your dominant hand thumb is off the top of the grip! Right before you hit your shot, check your grip, and more importantly, your thumb. A tight or death-type grip will hinder your club motion and cause more of a jab-type stroke resulting in an errant chip or pitch.

Lakes 18 Hole Women’s Golf Group, please call Penny Dixon at 780-4585097 or email her at penelopeadixon@ gmail.com

Submitted by Jeanne Gardin Publicity Chair

Heron Lakes Men’s 18 Hole League (Monday)

Submitted by: Don Paulson

October League Play Results

We had minimal play during October due to the course being closed for overseeding. League play will resume the week of November 4 when the course reopens. The course is in great shape after overseeding and our winter residents are returning, so we look forward to getting back out there.

October 7, 2024 – 1 Net Front/2 Net Back

1st Place at 82 – Ben Boss, Don Steffan, Larry Ziehm

2nd Place at 83 – Bill Funke, Jim Gardin, Joel Westphal

3rd Place at 85 – Virgil Knapke, Ken Steele, Tim Bauer

The

Heron Lakes Men’s 9 Hole League (Thursday)

Submitted by: Don Paulson

October 3, 2024 (2 Net)

1st Place at 65 – Jim Gardin, Bob Richey, Larry Ziehm

2nd Place at 66 – George Chrouser, Tim Bauer, Roger Dillon

3rd Place at 68 – Bill Funke, Don Paulson, Roger Dillon (BD)

October 10, 2024 (1 Net)

1st Place tie at 22 – George Chrouser, Joel Westphal, Mike Anderson, Larry Schmitt

1st Place tie at 22– Greg Holl, Larry Ziehm, Ken Meidl, Bob Richey

A pitch shot is somewhat like a chip, but a few yards longer. Depending on the shot and club you choose, you should keep the same basics in mind. A 20–30yard pitch can be intimidating, because it is an in-between shot. We don’t usually have a club for this distance, so now what to do? Depending on the shot and if you need a more lofted shot or lower,

pitch and run shot, we must choose our club accordingly. Whichever club you choose, be sure to grip down, which will give you more control and less chance to decelerate. When you grip down, you are taking some of the distance out of the club, which will shorten your backswing and give you more confidence to move through the ball. The body and arms must keep moving towards the target. We must allow the club to do its job and not attempt to help it. Your inconsistencies will be less frequent, resulting in saved strokes!

As we practice and gain trust, the short game will become easier. Keep small goals in mind by trying to eliminate just one stroke per hole, which will result in a lower overall score.

CLUBS | GROUPS | PUZZLES | GAMES | SERVICE DIRECTORY & CLASSIFIEDS | LIFE TRIBUTES

Oh The Places

Go

The Gather group attended a showing of the stage play "Anastasia" at Don Bluth's ront Row Theater

Shall We Round Dance Club hosted a Halloween Dance at the end of October.

CLUBS

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 Wednesday, December 4 at 1:00 p.m. The business meeting will begin at 1:30 p.m. The speaker for this month is Renee Parker, Director of Community Partnership from Mesa Public School. One of the goals of this AAUW branch is to become more involved in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) program and will research volunteer efforts for this. As usual, we will have a presentation about a Women in History from Mary deChesnay who always delivers an interesting talk about a woman and her contribution to society. Members who have attended the AAUW State Fall Forum program will give an update on this seminar.

Each year, this East Mesa Branch of the AAUW supports 12 local women scholars through full scholarships to 2- and 4-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 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.

For membership information, please call Betsy Flaten at 218-491-4777, Elaine Prom at 480-207-0655 or visit our website at: https://eastmesa-az.aauw.net.

Billiards Club

League play began in November, and we wish all participants good luck (skill helps, too). If you are interested in joining either as a competitor or as a substitute, please contact the team captain.

Wednesdays: East Valley 8-ball League needs 12 players. Men only (but we hope to change that in the future). Games begin at 8:00 a.m. and end in time for

you to make a noon tee time. Contact Doug Henry, captain (310-738-5336).

Thursdays: Cactus Mixed League Playing 1-15 “call shots”. Men and women are welcome. Rules have changed to shorten the playing time, which was a problem last year. Contact Jack Chambers, captain (480-241-1804).

Fridays: Cactus League. 5-man “round robin” singles. Highly competitive amongst the Valley’s best players. Looking for a captain. It is Doug Henry now (see above).

Keep checking our bulletin board for all our other tournaments and activities. We are here to have fun.

Leisure World Democratic Club

Submitted by Sue De Carlo, Treasurer

The LWDC will meet at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday December 11 in the Club Room at Rec 1. The theme of this meeting will be a Holiday Party. Turkey and potatoes will be provided along with soft drinks and wine. We ask those who wish to bring something provide a side dish or desert. Looking forward to seeing you all.

Gather

October had us going to the Singing Panda again (this seems to be a group favorite…as soon as we do an outing, another is requested).

We also had an entertaining evening with a great cast of the Don Bluth’s Front Row Theatre as we saw the performance of Anastasia. We were then treated very nicely at Yo Pauley’s for delicious Italian food after.

Since most outings come at very short notice and sometimes in very limited seating, I suggest you watch for my e-mails on the post, as things happen quickly

and have very little lead time. November will have had: Candle making at Candle Chemistry Don Bluth’s play “It’s a Wonderful Life” Singing Panda

As always, drivers for the carpool are greatly appreciated.

For any trips in which you would like to partake, contact:

George Miller manor 1625

774-275-4009

Investment Club of Leisure World

Submitted by Shelly Begel Investment Club of Leisure World (aka San Tan Investment Club) is a closed end mutual fund of one quarter of a million dollars. It consists of blue chips 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 have changed our time and location! We are meeting at the Internet Oasis, at 1 p.m. for between 1 and 2 hours. Please join us on December 19, 2024. If you are 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 just come to the meeting

Gather Club Photos from Past Events

on December 19th. Don’t forget our new 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 new Internet Oasis.

Leisure World Christian Fellowship Bible Study

Submitted by Mary Louise Hendricksen

We invite you to join our Bible Study on the Book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. We will find much knowledge, history, wisdom, and comfort in its 66 chapters. We meet during the months of November – April each Thursday from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. in the Theater. This is a nondenominational study for men and women. All study materials are provided but B.Y.O.B. – Bring Your Own Bible. Thursday December 19 we will have Bible Study at 9:30 a.m. in the Lakeside Clubhouse to be followed by a Christmas 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

The new season is underway, and the club has selected two one-act comedies for our annual production; March 1-3, 2025. The plays, “Radio Play Disaster” and “Bad Auditions by Bad Actors” are both full of madcap characters, hilarity, and lots of surprises.

If you’ve always wanted to be on stage, we’d love to have you join the fun! We will be holding auditions in December and January. Everyone is welcome.

There are three audition dates: (1) December 7, 8:00 a.m.noon in the Club Room, (2) December 11, 8:00 a.m.11:45 a.m. in Lakeside, and (3) January 3, noon - 5:00 p.m. in the Club Room. You will have the option of auditioning in person or 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 (206) 234-8733.

CLUBS

If you’d like to take part in the production but don’t feel ready to be on stage, there are many other jobs needed to stage these plays. Have experience in applying makeup? Think you might want to help with lighting or sound or making props? We’d love to have you as part of our crew.

The great thing about community theater is the laughter and camaraderie we experience throughout the process — the connection with other cast and crew members and ultimately the joy of entertaining the audience. 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. Current members, please remember to pay your dues to Lynne Campbell this month.

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 the second Wednesday of each month October through April and additionally as needed over the summer.

Our next meeting will be held in the Theater on Wednesday, December 11, at 1 p.m. MST.

Please contact Frank Jacoby (frankjacoby4@gmail. com) or 248-535-5456 for more information.

Our December meeting’s discussion segment will focus on “Should Your Retirement Portfolio include Precious Metals (Gold, Silver etc)?”

Submitted by: Frank Jacoby Manor 1540

L.W. PEO Group

from noon – 1:00 p.m. in the Rec 1 Club Room. Hope to see you there!

Leisure World Investment Club

(AKA: Green Bananas)

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.

The next meeting of the Leisure World PEO group is planned for Friday, December 6 in the Club Room. This will be our Christmas luncheon. We will start at 11:00 a.m. (a bit later than usual) and have a festive luncheon. Hostesses for the meeting are Marta Troutman, Sandra Lackore and Bev Zengel. Please RSVP to Marta Troutman if you plan to attend at (417) 335-1033. The luncheon will be $15 per person.

Our next D’Vine Book Club will be December 11. We will be reading The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck. The book club will be hosted by Bev Zengel, Manor 2678, with Eunese Roberg leading the discussion.

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.

Clubs Continues on page C4

Shalom Group

The Shalom Group will celebrate Chanukah and winter holidays on Sunday, December 15 at 5:30 p.m. in Rec. 1 Club Room.

You do not need to be a member to attend. Everyone is welcome. We will be having a catered dinner from Arizona Premier Catering that will include brisket, chicken, potato latkes and more. Everyone can participate in the fun Right-Left game. Just bring a new wrapped $10 Gift.

Dues are $15 a year. You are welcome to visit our meetings at any time. Please call Neesa if you have questions, 206-356-2727.

Minnesota Club

SAVE THE DATE

Another “Great Minnesota Get Together” will take place on January 23, 2025. Get out and buy your 2025 calendar so you can record the date. Watch the January, 2025 Leisure World News for all the details. Information about purchasing tickets will also be in that edition. Everyone who has ever lived in Minnesota, visited Minnesota, or driven through our beautiful state is cordially invited to attend. The more, the merrier. See you on January 23.

CLUBS

Republican Club

by Diane Andersen

Our motto is “Educate, Encourage and Inspire.”

Onward and upward with a new administration to be inaugurated on January 20, 2025. We hope for the best for our nation!

Our Christmas event is scheduled for Monday, December 16, 2024, at 7:00 pm in Recreation 2 Hopi/ Pima. We will showcase Eric Golub who is a national political comedian. He is kind but will keep us in stitches. We will have a travel collection for our guests. Plan to join us for an evening filled with live music, gifts and fun!

Election of officers including president, vice president, secretary and treasurer will also be held at the December event.

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 so you will only owe $5 to bring your membership up to date. Meetings are not only for education but for fellowship as well. Are you new to Arizona or have moved within the state and would like to update your voter registration? Please call the number below.

In the event you are conservative minded and would like to become politically active you are encouraged to contact Diane Andersen at (480) 395-5515 or azpatriot13@gmail.com for more information.

Leisure World’s Singles Group

SOLO -Stepping Out Lively Outlook

December 2024

• Tue. Dec. 3, Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 8 a.m.

• Thur. Dec. 5, Free music, Mesa Arts, 12:30 p.m.1:30 p.m., last of the season *

• Mon. Dec. 9, Lunch, Cafe, Rec. 2, 11a.m.

• Tue. Dec. 10, Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 8 a.m.

• Wed. Dec. 11, OOW HODGEPODGE Capool Noon Rec. 1, *

• Fri. Dec. 13, Mesa Christmas Market 5 p.m.

• Fri. Dec. 20, POTLUCK REC. 1, 5 p.m.

• BRING AN APPETIZER OR DESSERT TO SHARE AND $3.

• Also bring a White Elephant gift for a fun exchange

• Sat. Dec. 21, First Day of Winter

• Mon. Dec. 23, Lunch, Cafe, Rec. 2, 11 a.m.

• Tue. Dec. 24, Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 8a.m.

• Wed. Dec. 25, MERRY CHRISTMAS

• Tue. Dec. 31, Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 8a.m.

• HAPPY NEW YEAR’S EVE

Wisconsin Club

Submitted by Robin

Dougherty

Hello Wisconsinites! Please mark your calendar for our next gathering. It will be held 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. Grant and his staff will cater a delicious Italian-style dinner, with the main entrée being lasagna. More details will be provided in the January newspaper regarding prices and the deadline to make your reservation.

At our last meeting held March 12, 2024, the Wisconsin Club voted on and passed donating $500.00 to the L.W. Foundation. This is to be used for projects only in Leisure World. Janice submitted this donation to the foundation last spring. The club also voted on and passed donating the Daily Wall Street Journal to our L.W. library. Janice has been working with the library staff on getting this, so it is in the works, and we hope to have it available to everyone soon! We will keep you posted! We will also provide more information on the donation we agreed to give to the Wisconsin Historical Society later. Terry Evans is currently working on it.

Remember to save the date of January 14. As already stated above, more details will be provided in the January paper. We will also be sending out an email to Wisconsin Club members and a message on the post reminding everyone of the gathering in early January.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact one of us: Terry Evans at 920-9187335, Janice Dill at 920-860-0638, or Robin Dougherty

REGULAR WEEKLY EVENTS DECEMBER 2024

SUNDAY

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

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

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

4:00 p.m. Movie 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)

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)

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)

7:00 a.m.

FRIDAY

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. Ceramics (CER/SG)

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

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

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

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

SATURDAY

Shuffleboard Court

ARTS & CRAFTS CLUBS

Arts & Crafts Meetings and Classes Schedule

DECORATIVE ARTS

Art Assoc. – (AS) Contact: Billie Klaus, 970-231-4845

Open Studio: Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Jewelry and Lapidary (LAP) Contact: Dan Coulombe 479715-5826.

Photography Club (AS) Contact: Bob Bennett, 480-250-7127

Rubber Stamping (CER/SG) Contact: Mickey Dent, 480634-4574, Monday, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

FIBER ARTS

Knitters & Crocheters Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-6414626 – Fridays 9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. All interested knitters, beginners to experienced, join in. We teach beginners and help those who are having difficulty with a pattern, No charge.

Open Sewing Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626 Open to all residents who do hand sewing.

Leisure World Art Association

The Art Association will be meeting on December 12 at 4 p.m., in the Art Studio. The Board will meet at 3 p.m. and the General Meeting will be at 4 p.m. You are welcome to attend.

Ceramics Club

Good news from the Ceramics Club! We have all kinds of paints and brushes to use. We also have a large assortment of pieces to work on. Come in and take a look.

Hours for the club 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 are open Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. We have Stained Glass, Fused Glass, and Mosaic Classes in progress and will continue these classes until February.

Please stop in on Monday or Wednesday to get signed up to start your creating with glass. Our teachers will teach and help you to score and cut the glass, and design beautiful items for your home or for gifts.

*Due to the sharpness of the glass please wear closetoed shoes.

We look forward to meeting you.

Photography Club News

by Charlene Ingerson

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 to 11:30 in the LW Theater to learn and share and enjoy each other’s company.

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.

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

December’s speaker is Peter Coskun. Peter is an award-winning nature photographer with a focus on landscapes and wildlife. His work consists of bold and unique compositions of the American West while chasing spectacular lighting and weather conditions. An East Coast transplant to our arid deserts, Peter has taken to the Southwest and his photographs show the glory of our area. Peter’s photographs have appeared in numerous publications such as Arizona Highways and Outdoor Photographer magazines. Some of his photos have also been featured on the National Geographic website. You can find Peter’s work at www. pjcphotography.com

Peter will be speaking to the photo club on Saturday, December 14th in the Leisure World Theater from 10:00 to 11:30. He’ll be talking about his experiences in photographing Alaska’s brown bears. All Leisure World residents are invited to attend.

We love showing our photos and our display cases are now in a new location. They are located on the wall across from the theater next to the passage to the Rec 1 pool. We have a monthly exhibition of photos and would love for you to vote for your favorite. In the later part of December, we will be posting our annual Christmas card to Leisure World from the Photo Elves.

Best wishes for a safe and healthy holiday season!

LW Quilters

by Carol Stickling

We hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful. On to Christmas and New Years. We only meet two Thursdays in December. One of these meetings is our cookie exchange. The last Thursday is December 12, and we will make thread catchers for our next sale and maybe one for ourselves. Then we will not meet again until January of 2025. Enjoy the holidays.

For more information, please contact: Judy Kauth @ 757-651-5648 Or Carol Stickling @ 847-951-6937

Woodworking Club

The Woodworking Club at Leisure World is a group of more than 200 woodworkers who enjoy the privilege of having a very well-equipped woodshop within Leisure World. Situated right next to the basketball court and the exercise room, it provides every piece of equipment that any serious woodworker would need to work on projects for the home, or for gifts or fun times in the shop. Inexperienced woodworkers are welcome to join the club and would be entertained and instructed by current members, many of whom are experienced woodworkers. Membership is $20 per year to use all of the equipment and many of the supplies that are furnished by the club. If you have an interest in woodworking and long to get your hands on some

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

Pillowcase Dresses Group

The pillowcase dress group has started up, and many new dresses have come in. We want to thank everyone who has donated material for this project and those who have spent the summer sewing dresses and shorts for us. Please come in and visit the Anniversary Room Monday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and see our pillowcase dresses. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us and leave messages if we aren’t answering. Darlene Footh. 701-339-8491. #816. Joan Bishoff 701-200-8917 #506

Monday Morning Twiddlers and Friday morning Crocheters, Embroiderers and Knitters

submitted by Carolin Lowy Holidays greetings to everyone here in Leisure World. Our group has just had our “Annual Give Away.” We’re delighted to donate our years’ work of hats, scarves, and throws to help those in need, including homeless people who appreciate a gift to keep them warm, youngsters in need of support, and patients going through cancer treatments.

Our group uses donated yarn throughout the year to create the above-mentioned items.

Residents or winter visitors who enjoy any handiwork using fabric, floss, needles and yarn is welcome to join us Monday and Friday mornings from 9:00 a.m. -11:00 a.m. in the Fiber Arts Studio.

Bring your own project or select supplies from our donation bins.

As a group, we also enjoy Friday lunch at the cafe here in Leisure World and our monthly outings to local restaurants to celebrate birthdays.

If you need to know more, give me a call. Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626

power tools, come by the shop and talk to the monitor on duty about joining.

CARD & GAME CLUBS

Card and Game Events Schedule

Card groups listed are open games and residents are welcome to come and join the group. Reserved room is subject to sharing if less than 20 in attendance.

BRIDGE GROUPS

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Mondays & Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m. Year Round

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Friday, 12:30 p.m. April – October

ACBL Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480-3099039 . Sunday, 12:30 p.m. October-May

Non-Sanctioned Duplicate (CLR) Contact: Roger Mickelson, 319-750-7112 . Thursday, 12:30 p.m. Sept – May.

Partner (LC) Contact: Lynn Peters, 262-853-4870 Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Year Round.

Party (APA) Contact: Lynn Peters, 262-853-4870 Thursday, 6:30 p.m. Year Round.

Progressive (QCR) Contact: Marlene Patton 507-2710003 . Thursday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct – May.

POKER GROUPS

Dealer’s Choice (NAV) Contact: Jim Munkwitz, 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 on the first Tuesday of the month in the Club Room at Rec. 1, all year round. It’s a very easy game to play, 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, December 3.

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.

Euchre (APA) Contact Ted Jackson, 518-248-2052 Tuesday, 6:45 p.m. Oct – April.

Game Night (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-2902936 . Every Friday, 6:00 pm. Year-round.

Hand and Foot Progressive: (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. Yearround.

Hand and Foot: Samba (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Wednesday, Thursday & Friday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mah Jongg Madness (LC) Contact: Jan Biddle, 303881-7808 . Monday, 12:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mah Jongg (APA) Contact: Neesa Galanti, 206-3562727. Tuesday 7:00 pm and Thursday 1:00 p.m. Year-round.

Pinochle (QCR) Contact: Jackie Anderson, 480-9858503 . Summer: Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 12:30 p.m. Winter: only Tuesdays, 12:30 p.m.

Scrabble (LC) Contact: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626 Monday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round.

Mexican Train/Dominos (LC) Contact: Theresa Cuocci Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m. Year-round.

Polish Poker

As the weather gets cooler, I hope you come join us on the last Monday of the month for a low-skill, great socializing game of Polish poker. $3.00 and BYOB get you a night of playing and chances at our 50/50 raffles.

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

Seasonal greetings from the Leisure World Scrabble Club S = Season C = Christmas R = Ribbons A = Advent B = Baby B = Birth L = Love E = Eve. All the above words could be played on either a Scrabble board or an Upwords board. Your choice.

The Scrabble Club always welcomes new players. We meet every Monday evening at 6:00 p.m. with games starting at 6:15 p.m. Location = Lake Side Club House at rec.1 The club provides everything needed to enjoy an evening of good cheer.

Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626

Casual-Aires

Submitted by Allen Cziok

MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS

Have you checked out the Casual-Aires? We organize rock-and-roll or country music dinner dance parties in Leisure World. You will find many of your friends are already members, and we invite you to join us.

We feature the most entertaining musical groups in the East Valley as well as a catered dinner served at your table. We have a smart casual dress code and always a fun-loving friendly group. Our four yearly events are held in the Hopi/Pima Ballroom at Rec 2.

Our first dance was on November 16 when “ MIDNIGHT CONFESSIONS” delighted everyone with wonderful renditions of so many dancing and listening favorites. Premier Catering served a delicious prime rib dinner.

Our three remaining events this season will feature the following musical groups:

Saturday, January 18 “CITY NIGHTS”

Saturday, February 15 “RHYTHM EDITION”

Saturday, March 15 “WHISKEY ROSE” (Country Night)

While we have a large and loyal membership, we accept any Leisure World residents as guests for only $50 per individual or $100 for a couple. Contact our friendly team at casualairesreservations@gmail.com to attend one of our parties or for more information.

Desert Belles

Desert Belles are back. We’re having a wonderful time getting together, welcoming new members and singing in harmony.

In November, we raised our voices in honor of our veterans in the LW Courtyard at Rec. 1. We appreciate everyone who came out to hear us on November 12. We have a collection of mostly traditional Christmas songs to share in December and will return to the Courtyard at Rec. 1 on December 2, at 1:00 p.m. Later that day, we will take our Christmas songs to the Assistance League Thrift Shop in Chandler.

On December 6, we will do our annual caroling to various homes in Leisure World, followed by a chili party.

We then take a break until January 6, 2025, when we will start working on our repertoire of songs for a final courtyard appearance in the spring. We are happy to welcome new members to our chorus. We meet every Monday from 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. in the Music Room at Rec. 2. Check us out!

If you have any questions, please contact Barb Carney at casey2duffy@gmail.com or call 480-650-9551.

Leisure World Big Band

Submitted by John Andrews

The Leisure World Big Band is in full swing for this season and had its first dance December 1. Our next dance is scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. The Leisure World Big Band also sponsors the performance of the East Valley Pops Orchestra scheduled for February 20, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Hopi-Pima Room at Rec 2. The orchestra will also be accompanying the Leisure World Choir that evening. We expect it to be an excellent performance. Our rehearsals for the Big Band are still on Tuesday of each week at 10:00 a.m., and all residents of Leisure World and their guests are welcome. Come, listen to the music, dance, and enjoy the coffee and cookies. For more information, contact John Andrews, Phone 660541-2588. Manor 1465

Leisure World Dinner Club (formerly Western States and Canada Club) photo

The Leisure World Dinner Club will have three dinner/ shows for the 2025 season in Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima. For all dinner shows, doors will open at 5:30 p.m., dinner served at 6:00 p.m., and the show at 7:00 p.m.

1. First dinner/show on Thursday January 9, 2025, will be featuring steel drum percussionist Paul Mc Dermand paulmcdermand@cox.net

2. Second dinner/show on Monday February 17, 2025, will be featuring pianist extraordinaire, and wellknown, to Leisure World Brady Goss bradygoss88@ gmail.com

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. crystalstarkmanagement@gmail.com

WELCOME BACK

Leisure World Cloggers

Submitted by Joyce Loland Leisure World Cloggers who were in Mesa over Thanksgiving happily gathered on the day after Turkey Day to clog away some calories! Now, dancers are looking forward to the Christmas season, dancing to holiday songs and sharing holiday treats.

Class is held every Friday from 12:45 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. in the classroom next to the Fitness Center. Under the very able instruction of Dan Rowan and Cathy Martin, beginner steps make up the first part of the session and progress to the intermediate level by the end of the time-block. 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!

As it turns out, there will be clogging on December 6 and December 13 only this month due to Fitness Center scheduling needs. Impromptu gatherings to keep on practicing will occur according to popular demand and will be announced later.

For those who would like to try a little more challenging level than the Intermediate, an Intermediate Plus/Easy Advanced class meets 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 at Leisure World.

Calorie consumption is up at this time of year. Why not use clogging as a fun way to burn off some excess? It’s good for both your body and your brain – and it’s fun! Drop by on a Friday afternoon, and we’ll demonstrate dances and steps and show how the class operates. Everyone is welcome.

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.

LW Music Makers

Submitted by Mary Smith

A gift is what music gives your soul and keeps on giving throughout the year and your lifetime.

If it has been a while since you have played your instrument, consider joining our group of music-loving players. We play guitars, ukuleles, sax, melodicas, harmonicas, and piano and welcome violins, clarinets, flutes, etc.

We meet every Tuesday in the Rec. 2 Music Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, contact Mary Smith, at 480288-1423 or email me at marykry95@gmail.com.

Mary Smith M355

The Leisure World Mixed Chorus

Yes, it’s December, and we hope you are rejoicing in the wonder and warmth of our sun-filled days. And as you do so, dear friends and neighbors, your 70+ member (NO, not age but voices!) chorus is joyfully putting the finishing touches on our concert, “Holiday Road.” Our musical selections, both sacred and secular, will honor the diverse ways people celebrate the Christmas season. We hope our ‘song’ will touch your hearts, uplift your spirits, revive treasured memories,

MUSIC & DANCE CLUBS

and even elicit a chuckle or two. Please join us for “Holiday Road” on Saturday, December 14, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 15, at 3:00 p.m. Tickets are $10 and are available at the Rec. office and online at www.lwca.com, or you can buy tickets at the door. The entire amount of your purchase will benefit the musicianship of the chorus.

We always welcome new voices, so if the concert tickles your vocal curiosity, think about stopping by at rehearsals in the new year as we prepare for our Spring Concert. For more information, contact our director, Donna Mahan, 217-720-799

Moonlight Serenade Dance Club

Submitted by Mary Cartner

Lucky are those who attended Moonlight Serenade Dance Club’s November formal dance opening its Silver Season. Another stunning success, it was ‘the’ place to be in Leisure World. Special thanks to Linda Matheson and Kathy Litzenberger, who transformed the dance hall so beautifully into a fall fantasyland, and Paulette Barnard for managing another exceptional banquet, and Wayne Barker for band selection. What a beautiful evening!

Plan your calendar to join us again on January 25, 2025, for our special Silver Anniversary Dance, featuring the big band sounds of the Sonoran Swing Orchestra… another “don’t miss it!” Our board is grateful to all club members past and present, volunteers, and Leisure World’s administrative staff for ongoing support and ideas this past year. Volunteering a few hours this coming spring for short-term small projects may be an option for you. It’s an excellent way to “give back,” meet new people, and invigorate your body. MSDC extends our warmest wishes to all for a healthy and happy holiday season.

See you next year on the dance floor!

Visit the MSDC website: https://moonlightserenade. yolasite.com.

For Information on membership contact: Joy: joyk3048@gmail.com; or Jerry: jerrymundell45@ gmail.com.

Shall We Round Dance Club

Submitted by Kaye West

The Mesa 2024-25 dance season is underway with new workshops and classes for beginning dancers and those who have been dancing for a while.

At the Halloween Dance, fun-loving leaders Bill and Carol Goss and George and Pam Hurd entertained attendees with “Geriatric Olympic Gymnastics” and awarded prizes for costumed attendees.

Get a new brochure (at gphurd.com) alerting folks to the many weekly events as well as forthcoming special dances including three weekend events next spring: Dancing in the Desert and Cactus Capers (Phase 4-6) and Mesa Magic featuring new teaches accessible for Phase 2-4 dancers.

Lee Boyle posts a weekly schedule of dances being taught and flyers of dance programs (with cue sheets for those wanting to practice prior to a dance) at rounddancing.azphx.com. Added this year is a cumulative list of routines taught.

Unfamiliar with round dancing? Find abundant information about this healthy, enjoyable activity at home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/wi-do. To see personally what is possible for your own dancing via round dance lessons, visit the Rec. 2 ballroom 10 a.m.noon most Wednesday and Friday mornings, Sunday nights, and many Tuesday evenings! We encourage everyone to get involved! New beginning lessons start in January!

Note: Accompanying this article are three pictures, Possible captions:

1. Mesa dancers pause a moment at their annual Halloween dance.

2.  Pam and George Hurd and Bill and Carol Goss sport their “Geriatric Olympic Gymnastics” gold medals.

3.   Prize-winners for costumes pose for a photograph.

Ukuladies and Gents

Submitted by Mary Smith

Our ukulele group is having a great time playing along with the music projected on a screen with songs from the internet. We also play from the 365day yellow book and printouts of favorite songs. We learn something new each week and have fun doing it.

Our skills are gradually improving, and we are playing Christmas music during the season.

We will have fun playing our ukuleles during the singalong with the Mixed Choir this Christmas season. Be sure to come and enjoy the holiday show.

We encourage people who want to learn to play the ukulele to contact us. Mary Smith 480-288-1423 or Mary Cox 720-355-0889.

Mary Smith M355

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 both for $15/ person/class

Dates Tentative Figures to be Taught November East Coast Swing

12/4/24 Review Fallaway Throwaway, Link Rock, Turning Fallaway Rock, Turning Link Rock Introduce: Change Places Right to Left and Left to Right

12/11/24 Review Turning Fallaway Rock, Turning Link Rock, Change Places Right to Left and Left to Right Introduce: Shoulder Shove

12/18/24 Review Change Places Right to Left and Left to Right, Shoulder Shove Introduce: Windmill

Dates Tentative Figures to be Taught November West Coast Swing

12/4/24 Review Tuck and Spin, Left Side Pass with Tuck and Spin Introduce: Left Side Pass with Inside Turn

12/11/24 Review Left Side Pass with Tuck and Spin, Left Side Pass with Inside Turn Introduce: Right side Pass from Left Side Pass Man Overturn to Handshake 12/18/24 Review Left Side Pass with Inside Turn, Right side Pass from Left Side Pass Man Overturn to Handshake Introduce: Right Side Pass with Outside Turn

Bill & Carol Goss email: billgossjr@gmail.com Phone: 858-822-9981.

Slow Cooker Mississippi Pot Roast: Your Holiday Gift to Yourself

By Patti Diamond

As the holiday season approaches, finding time for homemade meals becomes more challenging. That’s why this Slow Cooker Mississippi Pot Roast is not just a meal, it’s a gift to your future self. Make a double batch, enjoy half now and freeze the rest for one of those crazy-busy days ahead.

This clean version of the classic pot roast skips the

Slow Cooker Mississippi Pot Roast

Yield: 6-8 servings

Total Time: 8 hours, 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons cooking oil

3-4 pounds boneless beef chuck roast

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 cup butter

1 cup yellow onion, coarsely chopped

3 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1/2 cup water

1 tablespoon Better than Bouillon Beef Base

1/2 cup liquid from a jar of pepperoncini

1/2 cup sliced or 5 whole pepperoncini

Ranch Herb Blend:

1 tablespoon dried parsley

1 tablespoon garlic powder

2 teaspoons dried chives

2 teaspoons dried dill weed

1 teaspoon onion powder

usual processed flavoring packets, using whole food options instead. With just 20 minutes preparation, you can have this roast simmering in the slow cooker, leaving you with a savory, fall-apart meal that’s perfect over mashed potatoes with a side of green beans or salad.

With this meal prepped and ready, you’ll have one less thing to worry about during the busy holiday season.

Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Add the beef to the hot skillet and sear until golden brown and lightly crusted on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Transfer the seared beef to a 5or 6-quart slow cooker. Leave the skillet over the heat.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add onions and cook, stirring, until soft, about 4 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Meanwhile heat 1/2 cup water and dissolve the beef base in the water. Add the water and 1/2 cup pepperoncini liquid to the skillet, scraping up the browned bits. This mixture will quickly thicken into a lovely, velvety sauce. Pour this sauce over the roast in the slow cooker. On top of the roast and sauce, evenly distribute the pepperoncini, and sprinkle the ranch herb blend.

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) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

with the cooking liquid drizzled over the top, alongside mashed potatoes, green beans and/or a green salad.

For Oven Roast Mississippi Pot Roast: Preheat oven to 275 F. In a Dutch oven, heat oil and sear roast. Remove roast, cook onions in butter, then stir in flour. Add water and pepperoncini juice and stir to combine. Return roast and add pepperoncini and Ranch Herb Blend. Cover and cook for 5-6 hours. Shred beef and serve with juices.

Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or 4 hours on HIGH or until the beef is tender and easily shredded. After cooking, transfer the beef to a cutting board and rest it for 5 minutes. Next, shred with a fork. Serve

Freezer Instructions: Cool ingredients completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight and reheat as desired. If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! This makes the most delicious sandwiches. You’ve heard of French Dip? Meet Mississippi Dippi! Serve shredded meat on buttered, toasted ciabatta rolls spread with mayonnaise and top with sliced provolone cheese melted under the broiler. Dip the sandwiches in the remaining jus from the crock pot thinned with beef broth if desired.

Thursday Morning Lady Billiard Players

Submitted by Carolin Lowy

All lady residents and their guests are invited to join up every Thursday morning at 8:30 a.m. for friendly games of pool.

Yes, we know that is still early for some folks but have the pleasure of enjoying the billiard room with plenty of tables to use.

If you have never picked up a cue stick or have not played in years or you just enjoy the game, you ALL are welcome to join us for ninety minutes of billiards.

There is a good selection of cue sticks to choose from or bring your own!

Need to know more? Give me a call. Carolin Lowy

480-641-4626

Leisure World/Apache Wells Gun Club

Well, it’s that time of year again: The season for giving. Have you made out your “list,” and are you checking it twice? The Gun Club definitely has. We hope more people will give joining our club some serious consideration. An increase in our membership would indeed make us feel merry and bright (And bring a very happy new year).

Not simply our Leisure World friends and neighbors, but we’d love those folks living in the Apache Wells community to check us out, as well.

Our monthly meetings are held the first Wednesday of each month in the Theatre at Rec 1 at 7:00 p.m. If unable to attend, feel free to come to any of our scheduled gun club events. PLEASE REMEMBER to bring three food items for a local food bank. All shooting events are held at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club, Usery Mountain Shooting Range, 3960 Usery Pass Rd., Mesa.

Calendar Of Events For December 2024

GUN CLUB MEETING - Wednesday, December 4 - Meet at the LW Rec 1 Theater by 7:00 p.m. It is A VERY IMPORTANT meeting, as the ELECTION OF CLUB OFFICERS for 2025 to 2026 will take place.

SPORTS CLUBS

• SPORTING CLAYS - Thursdays, December 5, 12 & 19 - Meet at the RSSC Shotgun Range Parking lot by 7:15 a.m., ready to shoot at 7:30 a.m.

• RIMFIRE PISTOL - Wednesday, December 11Meet at the RSSC Pistol Bay #2 by 7:00 a.m.

• PRACTICAL PISTOL - Friday, December 27 - Meet at the RSSC Pistol Bay #2 by 7:00 a.m.

• GUN CLUB LUNCH - Monday, December 30Meet at BJ’s Restaurant by 11:30 a.m. (located on Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa)

If any questions: please contact Robert Clark, President at captsteptoe@gmail.com

Pickleball

While you don’t need to be a member of the Leisure World Pickleball Club to:

• Play on Courts 15 and 16 from 8 am to 5 pm every day

• Reserve a court

• Attend beginner pickleball lessons

• Joining the club opens up a world of pickleball activities, including:

• “Paddles Up” play every morning

• Skill-level Round Robin play

• Opportunities to improve your game

• Social events

Annual membership is $50 per person. You can sign up and pay online at  https://trackithub.com/ share/4030?group_id=3019 Wait for the Leisure World Pickleball panel to appear on the right side and click on “Join” to begin the registration process.

Contact the club’s membership director for more information: lwpb.membership@gmail.com

For more about pickleball at Leisure World, visit https://www.lwpickleball.com/

Leisure World Water Volleyball Club

LW Water Volleyball Club is a fun, sun loving group of your neighbors who gather for an afternoon of laughter, exercise, and playful camaraderie! Please come and join our fun from 2:00-4:00 pm every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday (Sunday is open play at the same times for those who want to try it before joining).

ALL ARE WELCOME!! Membership assures you will be playing on those days when our court is very crowded. We “play” volleyball (non-competitive), keeping game score “serves” as our reminder to take a break after reaching games end (hydrate/phone/potty). Our game play is also very, VERY forgiving *we “lift” and we “carry”, we “splash”, we “double” hit (in fact, it’s encouraged!) and we serve from ANYWHERE!! We play with a soft “bouncy” ball, but we must be confident that all players are competent in basic volleyball (and water skills), are mobile, and comfortable in fast WET action. “HANDS UP” is our credo…. You’ll hear that a lot!

To join the LWVB Club, contact Tony Hildebrand at 480-748-8657 or Lois Waugh at 402-587-2392 with questions or come to the Rec 1 pool area at 1:45 pm on any play day. Copies of the By Laws, Rules and sign-up forms are available at the pool. Club dues are $20 for the year.

Photo Credit: Jeff Bayer

CONTRACT BRIDGE

A Tactical Measure

By Steve Becker

There are plays in bridge that are easy to understand when they are pointed out, but that are overlooked in practice because they are very unusual. For example, take this deal where West leads the king of spades against South’s four-heart contract. How should declarer play the hand?

Let’s say South wins the spade with the ace. What should he do next?

If he ruffs a spade in dummy at trick two, he cannot stop East-West from eventually collecting two spades, a heart and a club to defeat him one trick.

If South instead leads the king of clubs at trick two, East beats the contract by winning with the ace and returning a trump. West wins and cashes three spades for down two.

As a matter of fact, if declarer adopts any other method of play at trick two after winning the first trick, he eventually runs into a dead end from which there is no escape.

The solution to the problem, and the only way to make the contract, is to let West hold the first trick!

If West then switches to a trump, whether high or low, declarer draws trump as soon as possible and loses at most a spade, a heart and a club to bring in the contract.

A club shift by West at trick two is equally futile, and so is another spade lead, which declarer would ruff in dummy. In the latter case, a club return from dummy at trick three establishes a parking place for South’s remaining spade loser.

SPORTS QUIZ

By Ryan A. Berenz

Questions

1. In 1987, what Minnesota Twins third baseman became the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit home runs in his first two postseason plate appearances?

2. Former Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo played college football for what team?

3. What two soccer teams played in the notorious 2006 FIFA World Cup knockout stage match dubbed the “Battle of Nuremberg” that had four red cards and 16 yellow cards issued?

4. What 1986 made-for-television movie starred Vanessa Redgrave as transgender tennis player and ophthalmologist Renee Richards?

5. Name the mixed martial arts fighter

It is certainly unusual to duck the king of spades at trick one with dummy holding a singleton spade opposite the ace, but if that’s the only way declarer can make the contract, then that’s what he must do.

(c)2024 King Features Syndicate Inc.

from Ohio who successfully defended his UFC heavyweight title three times from 2016-18.

6. In September 2003, Baseball Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson played his final Major League Baseball game as a member of what team?

7. What German racecar driver, winner of the 2015 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race, holds the Formula 1 record for most career starts without a podium finish?

Answers

1. Gary Gaetti.

2. The Eastern Illinois Panthers.

3. Portugal and the Netherlands.

4. “Second Serve.”

5. Stipe Miocic.

6. The Los Angeles Dodgers.

7. Nico Hulkenberg.

HERE'S A TIP

By JoAnn Derson

• “I have to wear my hair tied back for work. With all the ponytails, I get lots of little broken hairs that stick up all over my head when it’s very dry or very humid, especially when I go from a wet, yucky outside to a dry, heated inside. I have tried lots of styling products that don’t work very well. Then a co-worker suggested a fabric softener sheet. I can’t believe it, but it works.” -- P.G. in Michigan

• If you have an ink stain on fabric, try blotting it with hairspray. Saturate the ink spot with hairspray and blot using a clean white cloth or non-decorated paper towel. Repeat until all the ink is gone. Make sure you test on an inconspicuous area first.

• For every degree you lower your thermostat during the heating season, you generally reduce your energy costs by 3% daily. Also, turn down the temperature setting on your hot water heater.

• Here’s a no-fail strategy for raking up leaves: Rake leaves into a single long line, preferably onto a sidewalk. Then turn a large garbage can on its side and sweep the leaf pile into the can, breaking to empty leaves into bags as needed. The raking goes much quicker when done in “stripes.” And bagging is faster as well.

• “I have one of those big wall calendars for work. When the year is over, the kids like to cut out the months into bingo cards. They use stickers to create both the bingo cards and the puller’s cards (the individual days and the different kinds of stickers). It’s a fun craft that uses their brain cells, plus recycles the paper calendar.” -- Y.R. in Arizona

Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803. (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

James W. Engelland

Age 90, formerly of Pembine, died peacefully with his family by his side on Friday October 11, 2024, at Desert Blossom Health and Rehab Center in Mesa, AZ. He was born in Two Rivers, Wis. on December 28, 1933; son of the late William and Linda (Schultz) Engelland. James served with the US Coast Guard and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree. He had a career as a teacher and then as administrator with Milwaukee Public Schools, retiring in June 1990. He enjoyed years of retirement with faithful Black Lab Picabo, riding the motorcycle,

LIFE TRIBUTES

reading, golfing, hiking and traveling.

James is survived by his children: Terry Lynn Schaefer and Nick James Engelland both of Milwaukee; grandson, Christopher Ryan Callan; siblings: Allan Engelland and Judy (Roger) Hoida; and special longtime friend, Joyce Lesniewski of Mesa, AZ. He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul; and sister, Nancy.

Burial will be in the Pembine Cemetery.

Roubal Funeral Home of Wausaukee is assisting his family with arrangements.

Margaret

“Peggy” Davis Jefferson

Peggy Jefferson passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, at age 91. Born in Whittier, California, Peggy’s life was always full with family, faith, music, sports and friends. A UC Santa Barbara graduate, she taught Physical Education in Miami Shores, Florida, where she and her husband, Dr. Thomas W. Jefferson, lived for the majority of their 60-year marriage.

Peggy embraced life, traveling extensively throughout Europe and annually across the United States in their RV. After retirement, she and Tom settled in Leisure World Mesa, Arizona and then permanently in Laguna Woods, California, remaining active in community, sports and church. Peggy was an enthusiastic sports fan, skilled musician, and loving friend who will be missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held Monday, November 11th at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Laguna Niguel, California. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Church of the Master

Operation Gratitude Still Going

PC(USA): cotmmesa.org

If anyone donates, please let us know so that we can send thank you notes.

Thank you for being so kind to her; she loved her friends in Arizona!

All the best, Peggy’s niece, Sandi Sandi Hanscom cfosandi@yahoo.com 949-214-8870

Strong

By Freddy Groves

Since it began in 2003, Operation Gratitude has sent out in excess of 4 million care packages to deployed service members. Starting several years ago, OpGrat has expanded their range of giving to include first responders, wounded heroes, recruit graduates coming out of boot camp and veterans, saying thank you to those who serve.

The kids aren’t left out either. Over 20,000 Battalion Buddy teddy bears have been send out to military children in one year alone.

The donated items in the boxes (ranging from expensive gadgets to snacks to games to necessities) come from corporations, small companies, community and civic groups, and individuals.

Requesting a care package to be sent to someone is easy. Packages can be sent to Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard personnel deployed overseas and National Guard serving domestically.

Volunteers are at the heart of OpGrat. They write letters to be included in the packages and volunteer at the packing events. Local groups create handmade items, scout troops and companies hold fundraisers and schoolchildren collect loose change.

If you doubt the value of this ongoing effort, look at the videos on the website (www.operationgratitude.com). And look for Carolyn Blashek, the woman who started OpGrat in her living room in 2003 after talking to an Iraq War soldier who doubted that anyone cared

about whether he’d make it back. She decided to prove him wrong, and 4 million packages later, she has.

I first wrote about Operation Gratitude in 2008 and have been tracking them through the years. While other efforts have come and gone, OpGrat has only grown and expanded. One memorable highlight was the year founder Carolyn Blashek personally delivered a care package to a soldier in Iraq. That box contained the keys to a new vehicle, courtesy of the automaker.

Want to open your wallet and help? You can make a tax deductible donation on the website or send a check to Operation Gratitude, PO Box 260257, Encino, CA 91426-0257. For more information, call them at 818-960-7878.

(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

COMICS

The Spats

By Jeff Pickering

Out on a Limb

By Gary Kopervas

Just Like Cats & Dogs By Dave T. Phipps

© 2024 by King Features Syndicate, Inc. World Rights Reserved.

Grin and Bear It

By Fred Wagner

“It's your lawyer. Are you in?"

Tiger

By Bud Blake

CLASSIFIEDS

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING

PlumbSmart Heating and Air Conditioning - Free service calls + Free A/C diagnostic w/ repair. BBB A+Rated NATE-Certified technicians and quality affordable HVAC service. Seasonal discounts on furnace and AC tune-ups. Senior & Vet discounts, 3-Ton AC unit only $4,995 including installation. Voted Best of East Valley in 2021. Licensed, bonded & insured ROC289252. Call 480-498-8896.

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Appliance 911 Major Appliance Repair and Service. Refrigerators, Washers, Dryers, Stoves, Dishwashers, Disposals. Factory Trained, 15 years in business. Fast, Friendly and Guaranteed. Get It Fixed Now call 480-200-9955.

ASSISTED LIVING HELP

Do you need help navigating senior living options? A free service for seniors! Trusted and highly vetted experts can help you find your best options for independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Call Corrie Shirey with The Senior Solution Group 480-942-9027

BLINDS & SCREENING

Shine Valley Screen & Awning Sunscreens, patio & screen rooms, security/screen doors, retractable awnings, patio roll curtains, window awnings, wood shutters, rain gutters and alum. pergola. Free estimates. 480-612-1012, bonded & insured, license ROC#274491.

CAREGIVERS

Marcie’s Home Care LLC

In Home Senior Care

• Companionship

• Meal preparation

• Medication reminders

• Errands-shopping-appointments

• Light housekeeping

• Respite care

Caregivers:

• CPR certified

• Fingerprint card

• TB tested Marcieshomecare.com (480) 714-4043

TLC Cleaning Services One call cleans it all! Professional housekeeper available weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. 10 years’ experience for dependable, thorough & customizable cleans. Call today 480-529-1600 Serving the East Valley.

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

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.

Space Available!

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with more customers. Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-832-0000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today. The summer only slows down if you let it!

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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

Norwex – Live Cleaner, Safer, Better. Microfiber, household and personal care items that improve quality of life by eliminating the use of harmful chemicals in our homes and our bodies. For more information check out my website: www.norwex.com/debeastridge Call or text Deb Eastridge at 602-686-8019

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.

Space Available!

Don't miss this opportunity to connect with more customers. Call Elizabeth Ramos today at 480-832-0000 Ext. 1178 to reserve your ad space today. Our residents are back and looking for help!

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. Senior & cash pay discounts. Call 480-2557325. Licensed, bonded, insured.

Stay Cool & Dry – With Full Services HVAC and Plumbing

Installations/Upgrades/Maintenance/ Repairs

ACW Mechanical LLC’s Expert Techs are Ready to Help (480) 735-4447 or (949) 235-3877 No trip charge Senior Discount Available!

ROOFING

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.

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ASTROLOGY

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A rejection of your attempt to be friendly leaves you with two choices: Try again or give up. If you want to make another effort, go slowly. Let things develop without pressure.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) It could be a problem dealing with unfamiliar people who do things differently from what you’re used to. But rely on your strong sense of purpose to get you through this difficult period.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) To avoid neglecting a personal matter because of a demanding new workplace schedule, start prioritizing immediately. Knowing how to apportion your time takes a little while to set up.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) It won’t be easy to avoid some of the pressures that come with change. Best advice: Take things a step at a time, and you’ll be less likely to trip up when things are in a chaotic state.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A much-talkedabout workplace change could be coming up soon. Be sure to get all the details involved in the process, and once you have them, you can decide how you want to deal with it.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) You might still believe that your trust was betrayed, although the facts would appear to prove the opposite. But by the week’s end, you should learn something that will help set the record straight.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Holiday plans could be a challenge because of shifting circumstances. But a more settled period starts by midweek,

allowing you to firm up your plan-making once and for all.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) The facts continue to be on your side. So, make use of them when dealing with any challenge to your stated position. Also, open your mind to an offer of help from an unlikely source.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) There still could be a communication problem holding up the resolution of a troublesome situation. Stay with it, and eventually, your message will get through and be understood.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A possible change in your workplace schedule might create a chaotic situation for a while. But once things begin to settle down, you might find that this could work to your advantage.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A recent job-linked decision might need to be reassessed because of the possibility of finding benefits that you might have overlooked. Check out all related data to help in the search.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) A personal situation you agreed to might not be as acceptable to the other person who is involved in the matter. Avoid pressuring and bullying. Instead, seek common ground by talking things through.

BORN THIS MONTH: You have a gift for touching people’s minds as well as their hearts. You would be an outstanding educator.

(c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

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:

Dressing • Bathing • Toileting • Meal Preparation/Feeding • Medication Reminders • Walking Ambulation • Companionship • Transportation • Light Housekeeping • Errands & more

24/7 Care Support regardless of in-person care hours

• Exceptional pay to our caregivers to provide them secure employment in their profession

• Long-Term Care Insurance (LTCi) claims expertise and advocacy. We verify benefits and manage your claim at no charge.

• VA Contracted for the Home Health Aide and Homemaker Benefit

• Support finding Senior Living