MHBGROUP Custom Community Magazines Since 1974
Sahara Mobile Park
Camelot
REGION 27
SERVICES Duct Cleaning / Refreshing - Leveling & Foundation Repair - Permanent Foundation (433a) - Plumbing Repairs & Re-Pipes - Flooring, Paneling & Trim - Doors & Windows - Painting - Roofs & Skylights - Heating, A/C & Swamp Coolers - Kitchen & Bathroom Remodels - Decks & Steps - Awnings & Patio Enclosures - Siding, Skirting & Subfloor Repairs
NO-W G
OFFERIN
855.906.6077
Camelot Sahara Park
1955 S. Camino Real, Palm Springs CA 92264 (760) 327-1881 / (760) 327-6832 Fax Email: sahara@havenms.com Managers: Tom Engel and Sandra Mohr Office Hours: Mon—Fri 9am—noon / 12:30—3:30 pm DIRECT ALL BILLING QUESTIONS TO THE ONSITE MANAGER
Weekend Emergency Contact Person (Pager Only): Jim Rountree 1 (760) 866-9995 At the Beep—key in your phone number Press # then Hang Up 611 Anton Blvd., Suite 890, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Property Management Company: Haven Management Services
Phone: (949) 515-5100 / Fax: (949) 515-5101
3491 Concours St., Suite 204, Ontario, CA 91761
http://www.millenniumhousing.com
Katie Davis (909) 930-9750
President: George Turk V.P. / Chief Operating Officer: Lori Carraway Director of Asset Services: Diana Welsh SPARC Director: Stacee Kazmierski
Toll Free (877) 930-9750 kdavis@havenms.com 1
November Dates to Remember
We keep hearing that a “Super El Nino” is coming this winter, possibly bringing record rainfall—yes, even in Palm Springs. You’re ready for that, aren’t you? You’ve unclogged your rain gutters? Your downspouts are secured and pointing toward the street? The gutter in front of your house is clear? You’ve checked that your yard drains properly?
Daylight Saving Time Ends
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Election Day
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Veteran’s Day
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Full Moon
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Thanksgiving
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Black Friday
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By the way, with all the rain that’s coming, we can expect an explosion of weeds and possibly debris in your yards. Please make sure you stay on top of that.
Small Business Saturday
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In Other News
Cyber Monday
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Sandy took the Pool & Spa Certification course…and passed! Not just barely passed, but with a score of 98%. Not that this has gone to her head, but Sandy has added “Aquatics Professional” to her resume.
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Upcoming expenditures: a new Trash Bin ($10K), repaint and add Ceiling Fans to the Laundry Rooms (also $10K) and more Clubhouse Furniture ($5K). Other than chairs, we haven’t spent much on furniture lately, so it’s probably time.
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We were saddened to hear that long-time (27 years!) resident Ron Maas recently passed. He would have moved into Sahara 3 years before our purchase, when Sahara was a very different place. Please
Great. Sounds like you’re prepared for whatever comes, even if we have a rain of terror.
Did You Know? Wild turkeys may look a little awkward, but they can run at around 20 miles per hour—and, unlike most domestic turkeys, they can fly!
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keep Ron in your thoughts. Speaking of a Different Place It was fun reading Marlene Smith’s look back at some of the changes to Sahara over the years. I had almost forgotten that Sahara didn’t have a wall when we showed up, but was encircled by oleander bushes. We built the Great Wall in 2007, helped by a $450K loan from the City of Palm Springs—and yes, we paid off that loan. Marlene also remembered that Sahara used to have 4 tournament-quality shuffleboard courts, back when shuffleboard was a “thing.” Thanks for the memories, Marlene. Starting a New Tradition Some people over-indulge on leftovers after Thanksgiving. Not me, however. This year I’m going to quit cold turkey. Have a great Thanksgiving!
George Turk
Happy Thanksgiving
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Manager’s Corner Hello, November! November is one of those wonderful months in Palm Springs when we’re reminded why we live here. The days are getting cooler, patios are becoming inviting again, windows can finally be opened, and our seasonal friends and neighbors are making their way back to Sahara Park. Suddenly, the community feels a little busier—and a lot more fun! As we head into the holiday season, it’s a great time to reconnect with neighbors, and take advantage of everything our community has to offer. Whether it’s a dip in our newly renovated pool, a gathering in the clubhouse, a walk around our beautiful park, or simply sitting outside with a cup of coffee and saying hello to someone passing by, November is a perfect month to enjoy the simple pleasures of community life. A Season for Gratitude Thanksgiving naturally reminds us of the things we’re grateful for, and here at Sahara Park, we have plenty. From neighbors who look out for one another to residents who volunteer their time and help bring our activities to life, neighborly friendship is woven into our community. So many thoughtful gestures happen quietly, without recognition, yet they make a difference. I feel very lucky to have a front-row seat to that kindness from the Sahara Park office. Welcome Back Snowbirds! To all of our seasonal residents returning for another beautiful winter in the desert: Welcome home! We’re happy to see familiar faces returning to Sahara and look forward to another season of activities, parties, dinners, dancing, laughter, and friendship. And to everyone spending Thanksgiving here at Sahara, whether you’re surrounded by family, sharing dinner with friends, or enjoying a peaceful holiday at home, we hope your day includes something delicious, someone who makes you smile, and at least one reason to be thankful. Enjoy November, enjoy our beautiful weather, enjoy each other—and save a little room for pie! Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Sahara Park! Warmly, Sandy Manager, Sahara Park
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Previews
dlatini@aol.com
NOVEMBER BLESSINGS AND GRATITUDE
A VERY SPECIAL SHOUT-OUT... ...To everyone who makes Sahara Park such a special place to live—THANK YOU! Camelot would not be what it is without all of you who give your time, energy, creativity, and heart to our community. A huge thank-you to everyone who plans, organizes, cooks, sets up, cleans up, volunteers, participates, attends, and helps make our park activities happen. From the people with the big ideas to those who quietly pitch in behind the scenes—we appreciate every one of you. And a very special thank-you to everyone who contributes to Camelot—our editors, writers, photographers, recipe contributors, Meet Your Neighbor participants, artists, storytellers, and everyone who sends in pictures, ideas, articles, jokes, recipes, and submissions. Every contribution, big or small, helps make Camelot our community magazine. Most of all, thank you for showing up, getting involved, lending a hand, and helping create the friendships, laughter, memories, and sense of community that make Sahara Park feel like home. It truly takes a village—and we have a wonderful one. With sincere appreciation, Thank you for being part of Camelot and part of Sahara Park! � George, Lori, Diana, Stacee, Tom, Sandy, Juan, Beto, Miguel, MJ, Liz, Jay, Karen and Linda, Rhonda and Ann, Mark, Gary and Michael, Jill, Phil, Leisa, Jim and Richard, Stephanie, Kathie and Ron, Leslie, Alicia, Bob, Teresa, Judy, Shel, Bob and Christy, Patrick, Tricia and Fred, Ron, Dave and Pam, Rod and his crew Ed, Christine, Eric, Jerry, Jaime, Cathy C., Dennis, Pat, Debbie, Stacie, Jill, Sunnie and Mel, Jennifer, Jimmy, Dave and Saundra, Steve, Linda, Niki, Craig, Kjell, Nancy and Patty, Linda, Kim and Marion. To all of those not mentioned, but certainly not forgotten. THE ORDINARY MIRACLES OF EXISTING ~Alan Lightman
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Meet Your Gerald Chester Have you ever wondered who lives behind the tall fence at the corner of Araby and Aladdin? The mystery is solved! Gerald Chester has been there for 23 years, predating the construction of the wall around the Park and other additions to our beloved community, such as the
beautifully landscaped area in the middle, the gym, and billiard room. The perimeter originally displayed oleander landscaping, which failed to keep intruders from ransacking residents, followed by a wooden fence, and finally a secure block wall. Gerald Chester also remembers Potlucks of years gone by along with other long-time residents such as Roberta and Boots. Originally from Detroit, Gerald has made his home in several areas of this great country, including Abilene, Texas, and other
areas of California. Gerald’s quiet, unassuming manner belies an academic career spanning four degrees, including 2 degrees in English Literature, a Law Degree and a Master’s in Library Science. He moved here in 2003 with his then partner Santiago, a paparazzi who was familiar with celebrities such as Ann Margaret, and whose fascination with Mobile Homes led to their residency here. He unfortunately passed from ALS, leaving a collection of 5,000 CD.s, They often vacationed in Puerto Rico, Santiago’s home of origin. Gerald’s qualifications opened many doors throughout his career. He has worked at the Health/Science Division of USC, as a librarian who chose books for a future library, and a lawyer. He volunteered for the Gay and Lesbian Organization G.L.A.D. which sought to maintain a positive image of the LGBT and which conducted plays in Hollywood until the theatre program was dismantled.
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Neighbor His daily routine is consistent with his well-disciplined life-style, and consists of a 40 minute walk each morning, and a breakfast of oatmeal, Manuka honey, and Sencha green tea. His morning TV talk show, the View, keeps him abreast of current events, while his mind is stimulated by the famous word puzzle Wordle, and the New York Times crosswords. You will see him at Clubhouse events when he is not maintaining his proliferate Cactus garden hidden behind his 6-foot wooden fence. Behind this fence 21 Ficus trees once resided, as well as a grass yard, all of this is now maintenance free and replaced with gravel and cacti of many varieties… Cactuses in pots adorn his yard, as well as a15 foot cactus, cereus, which is night blooming, and many missions cacti. Many of the cacti were planted from seeds sowing themselves in the yard. His love of gardening motivated him to join the online internet group, Coachella Gardening. He is also a member of Bloom in the Desert’s Pop-Up Choir. Gerald’s many travels and experiences have led him to conclude that, “You can’t go home again”, and he finds contentment in the aging process by “making each day as full as it can be, and by being as present as he can possibly be, always trying to find something beautiful.” He rises at sunrise every morning and belongs to a mini community of friends who engage in daily bonding via text. He goes to a spiritual place in contemplation and believes that, “As you grow older you can develop a closer awareness of the unseen”. If he were to offer advice, it would be to “Remain open and keep looking and learning.” Gerald’s desert life of 23 years seems to have given him a peace that he can share with others and that will carry him well along this journey of life.
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NOV 12 / DEC 10 @ 6 PM
Trivia and Treats TBA 8
Coming in December….
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Meet Another A Life of Flight and Adventure… John Bryan John Bryan grew up on a 240-acre farm in Kansas, where the sight of airplanes first captured his imagination. Aviation would not become part of his life for many years, but that early fascination eventually led to a 36-year flying career. His rural community offered only a one-room school through the eighth grade. His family homestead in Osage County later became a filming location for a trilogy starring Glenn Close, titled Sarah, Plain and Tall, and for a film starring Jack Nicholson, titled Family Homestead The Last Drive. John once envisioned becoming a landscape architect. Although that plan did not work out, his meticulously remodeled home at 178 Oasis reflects his considerable talent for interior design. After earning a degree in business administration from Kansas State University and completing ROTC training, he became a U.S. Army second lieutenant and platoon leader. His active duty from 1969 to 1971 included training at Fort Benning, jungle operations training in Panama, and a desk assignment in Long Beach. During that period, he also traveled to Sydney and Singapore. After returning to Kansas, John worked for Kmart, where the Blue Light Special was a familiar feature. There, he met a manager who introduced him to his true passion: flying. That encounter launched a 36-year career piloting corporate and fractionally owned aircraft throughout the country. John did not begin flight training until after he left Kmart. An accidental disclosure of allergies had prevented him from pursuing aviation in the military. He later received instruction in St. Louis and continued training near his hometown in Wichita, Kansas, where he earned a private pilot’s license through VA benefits. After obtaining the necessary flight-instructor ratings, he began flying charter aircraft and accepted a position in Alaska, where airplanes were essential for transportation. John also flew helicopters and turboprops for an air ambulance service, although the Lear 35 remained his favorite aircraft. During his years in charter aviation, he transported well-known passengers, including Willie Nelson, Martha Stewart, and George and Barbara Bush—but you didn’t hear that from me. John lived in Sugar Land, Texas, for four years and also made homes in Houston and San Antonio. He spent 12 years in San Antonio flying for an insurance corporation. Over the course of his career,
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Neighbor he logged 14,000 hours as a professional pilot and attained the rank of captain. He maintained that qualification through recurring training every six months, including check rides and simulated engine failures. John retired at age 66 and bought a condominium in Palm Springs. He later moved to Sahara Park, first living at 86 Caravan before settling into his present home. John has devoted considerable time and effort to remodeling his home at 178 Oasis. He enjoys staying active and walks as much as he can. Having traveled throughout all 50 states and Mexico, he continues to value exploration while remaining closely connected to his family in Springfield, Missouri. He also frequently goes to the movie theater with a friend on Tuesdays. John describes his favorite aircraft, the Learjet, as being like a rocket ship and built like a Swiss fighter jet, only with a larger cockpit. He is also a member of the National Gay Pilots Association. His honesty, gentle spirit, good taste, and impressive career have made him a valued presence in the park. Learjet 35 Top speed 542mph Range 3,290mi John’s favorite aircraft to fly
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He turned to the class with the disarming grin. “Hello, I’m, um, Mister Harris.” He gestured to the blackboard with his thumb. “You can just call me Roy.” Two days later when the class met again it had doubled in size. Twenty new female students had suddenly decided it was time to fulfill that ConLit requirement. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning Sonny sat in his crowded classroom, transfixed, as Mr. Harris spoke in earnest of the social relevance of Vonnegut and Kerouac, Albert French and Edmund White. She was torn between the desire to please him by working hard to submit A-quality essays, and writing poorly enough to require private office hour counseling. The thought of having a conversation with him made her dizzy, and the hallway outside his office was already crowded with foxier classmates. He should install one of those take-a-number machines, she thought. Sonny assumed they would never speak. Then one afternoon, on her way to the dining commons, she had her Big Chance. She was slowly peddling her ten speed on the sidewalk adjacent to busy College Avenue when she saw HIM coming toward her. Her stomach lurched, her mind, it raced! Should she say hello? Would he even know her? Closer he came, in his faded jeans and elbow patches, then there he was, three feet away. She stared. He smiled—oh god—and said, “Hi! Hello there!” Sonny took a deep breath, opened her mouth to reply, and drove her bike off the sidewalk and into the gutter, jamming the front tire into a drainage grill. Then she fell in the street. An instant later she looked up in horror to see his beautiful face, now lined with concern—and bemusement—peering down at her.
You can just call me Roy
“Dang, Sonny, are you all right?” he said. He extended his hand to help her up.
She was bleeding at the temple... “He knows my name!” was her only thought. …
Sneak peek from “Splattered, Volume One: Simply Green”, a new graphic novel by our neighbor Rhonda Coleman (146 Morocco). Sahara Park creatives—do you have a piece to share? We'd love to see it! Submit your short stories, poems, or artwork to Denise at dlatini@aol.com 15
Sudoku Puzzles
Sudoku
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GET A HEAD START ON YOUR HOLIDAY BAKING
Carmel Pecan Fudge
INGREDIENTS:
Sonia’s Tic Tok Recipe
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3 cups chocolate chips
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1 can of sweetened condensed milk
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Splash of vanilla
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1 cup Carmel bits
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Nuts to your liking!
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Melt chocolate chips in 30 second intervals make sure creamy. 2. Then add Carmel bits, nuts and vanilla. 3. Spread mixture into 8x8 pan, chill for 2 hours until firm, then cut into squares.
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NO BAKE PEANUT BUTTER BLISS BITES INGREDIENTS: •
1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1/2 cup finely chopped roasted peanuts (for the mixture)
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For coating option 1: 1 cup coarsely crushed roasted peanuts
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For coating option 2: 1 cup melted semi-sweet chocolate chips
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For coating option 3: 1/2 cup colorful sprinkles
INSTRUCTIONS: 1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened unsalted butter. Beat with an electric mixer or sturdy spoon until smooth and well combined. 2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick. 3. Stir in the vanilla extract and the 1/2 cup of finely chopped roasted peanuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough. 4. Scoop out small portions of the mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into smooth, bite -sized balls using your hands. Place the rolled balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 5. Prepare your coating stations: Place the coarsely crushed roasted peanuts in a shallow dish, the melted chocolate in another shallow dish, and the colorful sprinkles in a third. You can also combine these or use other creative toppings.
TIPS: •
For a nuttier flavor, toast your nuts for 2-3 minutes in a dry pan.
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If the mixture is too wet, add a small handful of nuts or oats to tighten the texture up.
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If it feels too dry, add a little extra peanut butter or honey.
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Refrigerate the mixture for a few minutes before scooping into bite size balls.
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A cookie scoop helps create evenly sized portions.
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Lightly dampen your hands when making bite size pieces.
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Store them in a single layer initially until they set up so they do not stick together. 19
Peg’s Hot Artichoke Dip Ingredients 1 cup mayo 1 cup of Parmigiano-Reggiano OR Parmesan 1 cup chopped artichoke hearts in oil – drain oil 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Instructions 1. Mix ingredients all together adding a dash of pepper. 2. Put in shallow oven proof baking dish adding a touch of paprika. 3. Bake at 350 degrees approximately 20 minutes – until bubbly and crusty. Serve with pita chips, bite size pieces of sourdough or anything of your choosing.
Sriracha Mixed Nuts Ingredients 1 large egg white 2 Tbsp. Sriracha 5 cups unsalted mixed nuts (we used a combo of cashews, almonds, and pecans) 1/4 cup sugar 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds
Instructions 1. Heat oven to 325°F. Line rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. In large bowl, whisk together egg white and sriracha until foamy. Add nuts and toss to evenly coat. Add sugar and sesame seeds and toss until nuts are thoroughly coated. 3. Spread nuts onto prepared baking sheet and bake, stirring halfway through, until golden brown and dry, 23 to 27 minutes. 20
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