BetterLIFE Winter 2014/2015

WINTER 2015

village health clubs & spas

09 14 25 28

LISTEN TO THE EXPERT coming back to tennis

GET THE MOST

out of your membership!

OCOTILLO VILLAGE shaping up

DIFFERENT STROKES rebuilding life day by day

Table of Contents

better

life

Your Resort, Every Day Coming Back to Tennis Up and Coming 5th Annual Zumbathon Get the Most Out of Your Membership Take a Big, Deep Breath E•VOLVE FIT Village Greatest Loser Focus on Kids We’ll Help You Unwind What’s Cookin’ Camelback Flood Ocotillo Shaping Up Focus on Members Social Spot

3 9 10 12 14 15 16 17 18 20 22 24 25 26 30

meet your managers Carol Nalevanko President, Village Health Clubs & Spas cnalevanko@dmbclubs.com Rick Erdenberger Vice President, Village Health Clubs & Spas, General Manager, Ocotillo Village rerdenberger@dmbclubs.com John Smallfield General Manager, Camelback Village Racquet & Health Club jsmallfield@dmbclubs.com Jim krimbill General Manager, DC Ranch Village Health Club & Spa jkrimbill@dmbclubs.com Greg Nakagawa General Manager, Gainey Village Health Club & Spa gnakagawa@dmbclubs.com

Hello Village Members, Everyone at the Village would like to wish you and your family a Happy New Year! We hope you enjoyed a fantastic holiday season with your family and friends.

| bet terlife fall 2013

Don’t forget to ‘like’ Village Health Clubs & Spas on Facebook, where you’ll be privy to the recent contests we are running, fitness information and Village events—everything Village!

on the cover

5th annual Zumbathon co-chairs, Lori Krimbill and Linda Hertzberg.

Photo by Dave Seibert.

This is a very exciting year for the Village clubs.

In April, Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa will be opening in Chandler after much anticipation. At Gainey, we celebrated our 15-year anniversary in October with our annual Casino Night. As we move into 2015, the Village clubs are committed to providing you with the highest level of service, best facilities, and greatest value in the country. Gainey, DC Ranch, Camelback and Ocotillo will be introducing new programs, classes, and state-of-the-art equipment in 2015.

Now that it is time to get back to the Village clubs, why not try some new experiences this year. As you are all aware, the Village clubs have so much to offer and we would love nothing more than for you to take full advantage of as many things as possible. Make a resolution this year to get more involved in the clubs by trying one of our many group exercise classes, or perhaps one of the clubs’ social events including ski trips, hikes, golf, and cooking classes to mention just a few. If you have not been to the spa or salon lately, you’ll find a new array of services and treatments to round out the healthy lifestyle you’ve chosen. For our juniors, we are offering new ways for them to get active so please check the new schedules for junior programming. We have many informative articles regarding our clubs’ events and programs in this newsletter and hope one will spark your interest.

We would like to thank you once again, for your loyalty and support of all of our programs and services and hope that you are as proud of our clubs as we are.

Yours in Good Health, Greg Nakagawa GENERAL MANAGER, GAINEY VILLAGE

camelback

gainey

dc ranch

OCOTILLO

4444 e. camelback rd. phoenix, arizona 85018 phone: 602.840.6412 fax: 602.852.0411 18501 n. thompson peak pkwy. scottsdale, arizona 85255 phone: 480.502.8844 fax: 480.515.5521

7477 e. doubletree ranch rd. scottsdale, arizona 85258 phone: 480.609.6979 fax: 480.609.6976 opening spring 2015 4200 s. alma school rd. chandler, arizona 85248 phone: 480.656.0045

Comments, submissions and advertising inquiries can be sent to jbuterbaugh@dmbclubs.com (Camelback); tclark@dmbclubs.com (DC Ranch) or smcgann@dmbclubs.com (Gainey).

your resort

every day

M embers ready to head out on a 25-mile ride toward Bryce Canyon and Tropic, UT.

TRAVEL Zion/Bryce

Hike and Bike Trip

Members had an amazing time on the Village trip to Zion/Bryce, September 24 – 29! They hiked over 25 miles and biked over 100 miles.

T he view from atop Angel’s Landing in Zion National Park.

T he views were spectacular on the Navajo/ Queens loop hike in Bryce Canyon.

The Village group looking up from the switchbacks on the Navajo/Queens loop in Bryce Canyon.

D inner together the first night at Oscar’s Mexican Restaurant in Springdale, UT, right outside Zion National Park.

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www.villageclubs.com

A OA guides, Alex and Nick, prepared a great lunch every day for the members on the trip.

your resort

every day HIKE Fall

Hike along Boulder Canyon Trail

These photos say it all! The views were gorgeous, the weather perfect, and the Village group was ready for a nice hike.

M embers start up the Boulder Canyon Trail leaving Canyon Lake in the background.

Village members ready to start the 7-mile Boulder Canyon hike.

iews of the Superstition Mountains V while on Boulder Canyon Trail.

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M embers enjoy lunch and the view from Canyon Lake’s Lakeside Restaurant.

l eft Junior Novice Group 1 winner Mitchel Wang

(right); Megan Mavoides 2nd (second from left)

c enter Junior Advanced winner Mason Horton (right); Mason Smith 2nd r ight Junior Novice Group 2 winner Cade Debiase

(second from left); Donovan Mavoides 2nd (left)

ro winner Julian Illingsworth (right); Roy Ollier (center); Viktor Berg 2nd (left) P

The 2014 Halloween Open held at DC Ranch Village, October 24 – 26

SQUASH

This year’s tournament was fantastic in every way—great matches, tasty food, good sportsmanship, full draws and a finale match between Julian Illingsworth and Viktor Berg that everyone will remember for years to come. Unbelievable shots, deception, and retrieving played at a thousand-milean-hour pace had all of us in awe of these two players. In the end Julian showed why he is the nine-time and current U.S. National Champion by wearing down Viktor in four hard-fought games. All the other divisions produced worthy champions. When the last balls had been struck, the final results were: 3 .0 winner Brent Stein (left); Pete Mavoides 2nd

Junior Novice Group 2 1st Cade Debiase Junior Novice Group 2 2nd Donovan Mavoides Junior Novice Group 1 1st Mitchel Wang Junior Novice Group 1 2nd Megan Mavoides Junior Advanced Mason Horton def Mason Smith 3/1 Junior Advanced Consolation Joel Uliassi def Jordan Perry 3/1 2.5 Richard Mueller def Arnie Calica 3/0 3.0 Brent Stein def Pete Mavoides 3/1 3.0 Consolation Hannah Perry def Juan Silva 3/0 4.0 Lutfi Hussein def Steve Debiase 3/0 4.0 Consolation Rick Norman def Pervez Siddiqui 3/1

Squash Clinics C • Novice/3.0 Wed 4 – 5:30 pm D • Novice/3.0 TUE 9:30 – 10:30 Am

4.5 Adam Garner def Joe Acton 3/1 4.5 Consolation Chad Collins def Jim Franklin 3/0 5.0 Shashank Khandekar def Don Sheer 3/1 5.0 Consolation Ali Rizvi def Chris Mitchell 3/0 6.0 Julian Illingsworth def Viktor Berg 3/1 6.0 Consolation Chad Stauffacher def Will Zajic 3/1

Squash Open Play C • SAT 8 – 11:30 Am, Mon 5 – 7:30 pm,

Wed 5:30 – 7:30 pm

D • SAT 8 – 11:30 Am, Mon 5 – 7:30 pm,

Wed 4 – 7:30 pm

G • Tues + Thurs 5:30 – 7:30 pm

left 4.0 winner Lutfi Hussein (left); Steve Debiase 2nd r ight 4.5 winner Adam Garner (right); Joe Acton 2nd

Junior Squash Program C • Tues 3:30 – 4:30 pm D • SAT 11:30 AM – 1:30 pm G • Call for times

2 .5/Novice winner

Richard Mueller (left); Arnie Calica 2nd

5 .0 winner Shashank Khandekar (left); Don Sheer 2nd

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For more information on lessons, clinics or the junior squash program, or to purchase all your squash equipment, please contact Roy Ollier at rollier@dmbclubs.com or 602.350.5173.

your resort

every day TRIATHLON IRONMAN

Arizona (IMAZ)

Village members were busy this past fall competing in numerous local and out-of-state races. IRONMAN Arizona (IMAZ) capped off nearly a year of preparation for many Village triathletes. IMAZ was held on Nov 16 in Tempe, AZ. Competitors swam 2.4 miles, biked 112 miles, and ran a full marathon to earn their finisher medal.

I MAZ finishers and KONA qualifiers Sharon Johnston and Dwight Lundell with TriScottsdale Founder Preston Miller (center).

I RONMAN Arizona kicked off with a singleloop swim in Tempe Town Lake, followed by a challenging three-loop bike course, and a spectator-friendly run around Tempe Town Lake and Papago Park.

O ver 30 runners, dogs, and kids came out for the annual Post Turkey Day Run in Paradise Valley.

TRIATHLON Holiday

Events

Members had a blast at our Post Turkey Day Run, a free fun run to help work off the holiday feast. Our 15th Annual Jingle Bell Triathlon on Dec 28 at Gainey Village was a success, with proceeds benefiting the Phoenix Dream Center. Adults and kids age 10 and up participated in the sprint and cruiser bike triathlon.

winterTRI EVENTS D •

Valentine’s Day Tri at DC Ranch Village

FEB 14

This inaugural event will consist of a sprint and cruiser bike triathlon for adults and kids age 10 and up.

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C D GO •

Tri for the Cure

MARCH 22

Tri for the Cure AZ will be held at a brand new venue: Phoenix Country Day School/The Phoenix Swim Club, 3901 East Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley. This all-women race features something for everyone—a sprint triathlon, duathlon, and 5k run.

Go to www.triforthecureaz.com to learn about the free training clinics and to register for the race.

Village Health Clubs will host cycling and running clinics with registered kinesiologist Terry Roach at all locations this winter/ spring. Check your club’s flyer wall for the latest information.

For more information contact Abby at aluedecke@dmbclubs.com

+ S wim Neptune team members diving

and stroking during the Trident League fall meets. Photos by Jessica Paliscak.

SPLASH

Swim team is in full swing Village-wide!

While the weather might be a little chilly, the heated pools at the Village provide a comfortable swimming experience year-round. Practices are held throughout the week at all three clubs for ages five through high school. Please contact Helen at hzemaitis@dmbclubs.com for more information about swim team or swim lessons.

Swim team at Ocotillo Village will launch as soon as the club opens.

Swim Neptune will be providing the best swim team experience for members of all abilities age five through high school.

Village member Devin Esser (center) and friends are all smiles after an early season Alcatraz training session. It’s wet suit temperature now so sign up for an adventure of a lifetime and join us in the San Francisco Bay. Photo by Pam Esser.

T raining for the April 26/27 Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge swims are in full swing.

Swimmers enter the water for a training swim at Bartlett Lake. Photo by Pam Esser.

New Year New Pool Decks!

Now we have brand-new, clean pool decks that are better looking, provide better traction, and are cooler on your feet—go on outside and check it out!

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We are so excited to kick off 2015 with newly renovated and amazing-looking pool deck areas at all three Village clubs! Thanks to all of you for excusing our dust while we got the work done.

your resort

every day SWINGERS

DC Ranch Village Tennis Center Open House

Village members hit the courts on Saturday, November 8 for the one-year anniversary of the DC Ranch Village Tennis Center. Members of all ages enjoyed a beautiful day of Cardio Tennis Court, Speed Serve and Tennis Boot Camp.

Phil Johnson takes a swing on the courts.

Photos by Butell Photography

Jan and Jerry Mackulak

(right) stopped in with friends for a quick photo during the open house.

SWINGERS The Camelback Village Open Fall Tennis Classic, October 4 – 6, 2014

The unseasonably warm weather just made the action on the courts all that much hotter! Here are the results: Mixed Open Doubles Round-Robin Champions Dan Marting and Adria Raines

Ashlee and

Chris Candelaria

Mixed 10.0 Doubles Champions Pam Ponwith and Dale Phillips Finalists Cort Alcott and Cyan Brakhage

J en and Jeff McKee

Mixed 9.0 Doubles Champions Ashlee and Chris Candelaria Finalists Isabelle Brown and Surya Janakeerama Consolation Winners Nancy and Brad Stouffer Mixed 8.0 Doubles Champions Jen and Jeff McKee Finalists Jenni and Rob Leinbach Consolation Winners Cynthia Webler and Mario Lizarraga top left Surya Janakeerama

Mixed 7.0 Doubles Round-Robin Champions Diane Hibbs and John Kelly

Adria Raines

Men’s 3.5 Singles Round-Robin Champion Frank Grant

t op right Bert Hayenga m iddle right Dan Marting and

bottom left Frank Grant bottom right Pam Ponwith

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and Dale Phillips

Men’s 5.0 Singles Champion Bert Hayenga Finalist Nick June Consolation Winner Stephen Hulston Men’s 4.5 Singles Champion Surya Janakeerama Finalist Thierry Zerbib Men’s 4.0 Singles Champion Chris Candelaria Finalist Dwane Rose Consolation Winner Rob Kukla

W endy Willams

Women’s 3.0 Singles Champion Wendy Williams Finalist Diane Hibbs Consolation Winner Doris Vaught

listen to

COMINGBACK

THE EXPERT

to TENNIS

I often hear questions like these from long-time members and new members: “I have played tennis before, but (for various reasons) haven’t played in a long time. Can I, and how do I, get started again?”

Or “I have never played before, but now as an empty nester I have the time. Can I learn tennis?” The answer is most emphatically YES! You can play again, or start as a beginner, and have fun!

Maybe you stopped playing years ago because of an injury which no longer limits you physically. Perhaps you’ve gone through a lifestyle change and have a renewed desire to play. Whatever the situation, you can start again at any stage of your life. We have all levels of play at the Village and different programs to help you on your way.

For someone who has never played before, a great way to start is in our USA Tennis 1 2 3 adult beginner classes.

Level 1 is a six-week class designed to prepare the student for match play. This class includes basic stroke production for ground strokes, volleys, and serves. In addition, basic rules of the game are covered along with customs and court etiquette, such as how to reserve a court and how to start a match.

Level 2 is a six-week class covering doubles skills so the student will be comfortable playing in doubles competition. Level 3 in the series is to play other novice players. We offer an informal “league” for developing players by helping them to schedule match play. There are many players in our top levels of play at the Village who started in this beginner program. Private lessons will help further develop your game, and clinics, such as our ball machine or serve and volley clinics, provide on-the-spot coaching and shot repetition.

Returning players to tennis should plan to start out at a realistic pace. You can’t cram 10 years off into a week of intense tennis without possible injury. A good place to start is with a private lesson. We can evaluate your level of play, and depending on what your skill level was, determine if grip and stroke adjustments, to coincide with modern equipment technology, are warranted. A realistic return to the game should be anywhere from a month to several months in order for your body to acclimate to the stresses and strains of tennis. Plan on playing a couple times per week to start with and increase as you can, but limit your time on court to an hour to hour and a half.

Brian Cheney

Another very important physical component to remember is relax! The player coming back wants to do their very best, and in the process holds onto the racket too tightly during the stroke and continues to hold on tight in the ready position. Breathe out as you hit to help yourself relax. That helps in racket acceleration also. It takes many reps to get your “eye on the ball” and develop your depth perception to the oncoming ball. Have patience. I just had a player who came back to tennis after 20 years since playing as a young junior. She took private lessons, played in some Novice League matches, and recently participated in our Fall Classic tournament and competed well.

So if you have never played before, or want to get back into tennis, there is no time like the present.

See you on court!

Brian Cheney

tennis professional emeritus

Brian’s new title is Tennis Pro Emeritus, reflecting his long-time career teaching and studying the game.

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After 38 and a half years as Tennis Director at Camelback Village, Brian Cheney is retiring as Director to focus on teaching the game. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my years heading up the tennis program here at the Village,” Brian says. “I started in May 1976, six months after the club opened, and have seen it grow into one of the finest tennis and health clubs in the country.

From its small beginnings with about 400 members I have immensely appreciated what DMB has created for our members. And I look forward to continuing many years helping our players achieve their tennis goals.”

up and

Coming HIKE C D GO •

Brown’s Mountain Summit Hike

SAT, JAN 10

KE Y event location

C • Camelback D • DC Ranch G • Gainey O • Ocotillo

Try a new hike in 2015! Brown’s Mountain is a new area that recently opened up to hikers and bikers. This is a 4-mile, beginner/intermediate loop hike in the northern section of the McDowell Sonoran Preserve (Happy Valley & Dynamite). We’ll meet at DC Ranch Village at 8:00 am and carpool over to the trailhead. After the hike, we’ll go for breakfast. For more information or to sign up, please contact Shelly McGann at 480.624.9125 or smcgann@dmbclubs.com by January 7.

Guests are welcome.

C D G O • Tom’s Thumb Hike (from the Gateway Trailhead Center)

SAT, FEB 7

This is a 12-mile advanced hike. Meet at the Gateway Trailhead Center at 8:00 am. We’ll take the Windgate trail to the Tom’s Thumb turnoff. This is an up-and-back hike. The rock formations and views from the top are amazing! We should be back around noon and will go to lunch afterward. Bring at least 70 ounces of water and snacks for along the way. For more information or to sign up, please contact Shelly McGann at 480.624.9125 or smcgann@dmbclubs.com by January 21.

Guests are welcome.

C D G O • Village Hike to Havasupai with Arizona Outback Adventures

MAY 28 – 31

This is an 11-mile advanced hike to three amazing waterfalls in the Grand Canyon. Join us for one of the most beautiful hikes in Arizona…Havasupai Falls. We have partnered with AOA to make this experience more enjoyable and easier for everyone.

AOA will be providing the tents, duffel bags (to hold your clothes, sleeping bag, and toiletries), meals, and horses to get your gear down to the campground and back out. All you need is a day pack with water, bars/ snacks, sunscreen. We’ll meet at Gainey Village on Thursday, May 28 at 1:00 pm and carpool to the Grand Canyon Caverns Inn in Peach Springs (about a 4-hour drive). We’ll eat dinner together at the Caverns Inn. Early Friday morning we’ll drive an hour to the rim of the Canyon and begin our hike down to Havasupai Falls. We’ll camp Friday and Saturday night in the campground and play in the waterfalls during the day! We’ll hike out Sunday morning and arrive back to the clubs around 6:00 pm. Cost: $579/person if we have at least 45 people. The price will go up if we fall below 45 people. Includes hotel on Thursday night, camp fees, tents, horses for your pack in/out, 3 guides, 4 meals cooked for you (two dinners, one lunch and one breakfast). Limited to the first 50 people who sign up.

Contact Shelly McGann at Gainey Village, 480.624.9125 or smcgann@dmbclubs.com. An informational meeting will be held in early March to answer any questions you might have about the trip. special note: The club reserves the right to decide if you are at a high enough fitness level to do the hike.

KIDS C •

C •

Easter Eggstravaganza!

FRI, APRIL 3, 9 – 11 AM

Daily, full- and half-day rates available! Ages 5 – 10.

For more information please contact Marcia Leach at mleach@dmbclubs.com.

Pony rides, petting zoo, bounce houses, train ride, face painting, and so much more! Cost: Family members $25 for a family of 3; Single/Couple members $30 for a family of 3; nonmembers $40 for a family of 3; $10 for each additional person. For more information please contact Marcia Leach at mleach@dmbclubs.com.

Children can have pictures taken with the Easter Bunny at this year’s Easter Eggstravaganza.

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Spring Break Camp

MARCH 9 – 13

C •

Parents Night Out

2ND FRIDAY OF EACH MONTH, 5:30 – 9:30 PM

Dinner, a movie, and activities are included. Cost: $20 Family members and $18 per additional child; $22 Single/Couple members and $20 per additional child; $25 nonmembers and $23 per additional child.

For more information please contact Marcia Leach at mleach@dmbclubs.com.

R ACQUE T C • 2015 Camelback Village Tennis Club Championships

PLAY TAKES PLACE IN FEB, MARCH, AND APRIL

Please check with Judi Buterbaugh at jbuterbaugh@dmbclubs.com for more information.

C D G O • The Arizona Squash Open at DC Ranch Village

FEB 20 – 22

The first major tournament of the year will certainly be a continuation of the improving standard of Arizona squash. Our featured players are always amazing.

So why not come, play some hard matches, enjoy the great food and have a tasty beverage? Sounds like a great weekend to me! Please contact Roy Ollier at rollier@dmbclubs.com.

SKI C D GO •

Village Ski Trip to Telluride

FEB 19 – 22

Trip includes 3 nights lodging (double occupancy) at The Peaks Resort in Mountain Village, 3-day lift ticket, roundtrip video-motorcoach transportation, rental discounts. Cost: $675/double occupancy. Full amount due at sign up. Refundable if we find someone to take your place. Contact Shelly McGann at Gainey Village to sign up, 480.624.9125. Limited to 125 people.

H itting the Telluride slopes during the 2014 Village ski trip.

TRIPS C D GO •

Village Trip to Tuscany in 2015

SEPT 4 – 12

E xperience marvelous food and the wonders and beauty of Tuscany while spending seven nights in a medieval castle.

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Imagine 7 days in an unforgettable Tuscan castle.

Built 1000 years ago, Castello di Santa Maria Novella stands proud on the highest point between Florence and Sienna amidst the rolling hills and verdant valleys of the Chianti Region. An extraordinary vacation now awaits overlooking the famous Chianti Toscana winegrowing region, a place of beauty and harmony since the Renaissance. Tuscany is the ideal starting point from which to explore Italy. We will visit medieval towns and villages like Sienna, San Gimignano, Luca and the architectural treasures of Florence. Open your mind and your senses to “Lessons of Tuscany” as we spend 2 days back at the castle experiencing the arts and culture of Italy firsthand. Immerse yourself in cooking classes, watercolor and ceramic painting, conversational Italian lessons, and photography at sunset and dawn. Cost: $3769 per person (double occupancy). Includes: 7 nights in a medieval castle, 4 daily tours to local villages, 2 days “Lessons of Tuscany,” fresh breakfast each morning, 4 lunches, 7 multi-course dinners, all taxes and service fees, airport transfers from Florence airport or train station. Contact Shelly McGann at Gainey Village for more information or to sign up, 480.624.9125. not included: International Airfare.

5ANNUAL TH

ZUMBATHON for a CURE A spirited group of Zumba enthusiasts and supporters gathered on Sunday, September 28, 2014, to dance, donate and make a difference!

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Presenters and participants alike came dressed as a person they admired. Inspired costuming and over-the-top attitudes resulted in another high-energy event featuring policewomen, firefighters, astronauts, armedservices personnel, Pocahontas, Carmen Miranda, and so many more colorful characters. Proceeds from the 2014 Zumbathon (almost $14,000 from tickets sales, raffles, and a silent auction) went to support TGen’s biomedical research to find better and more specific treatment options for people with cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

Due to unprecedented flood damage at Camelback Village, the event was moved to Gainey Village. Many thanks to Camelback staff members Kim Burch, Judi Buterbaugh, Carrie Clarke, Cheryl Dunmire, and Kayla Ho, who volunteered to assemble the balloon wall which has become the signature Zumbathon backdrop, as well group fitness staff and Village members who volunteered to help with registration, raffle sales, and the silent auction. C o-chairs Lori Krimbill and Linda Hertzberg (front center) on stage with the amazing 2014 Zumbathon team of presenters (left to right): Chris Cluff, Stephanie Hazen, Paula Letter, Nathalie Young, Kristine Reich, Esti Price, Billie Wartenberg, and Tracy Anctil.

Do you want to make a difference?

Linda and Lori start early each spring rounding up sponsors and donations of bottled water, KIND bars, silent auction items, and raffle prizes for the fall event. The generosity of so many businesses and individuals is much appreciated. We would especially like to thank Savory Sundays, Essence Bakery, Village Tavern, Arcadia Tavern, Pita Jungle, Kick Ass Kakes, Aqua Hydrate, KIND Bars, Hint Water, and Lorna Jane Activewear.

To make a donation to the 2015 Zumbathon, please contact Linda Hertzberg at lhertzberg@dmbclubs.com.

The Zumba team that has performed at these events over the past five years is a fireball of enthusiasm and professionalism. They brought in the people and the donations, and delivered the energetic show that blasted the basketball court at Gainey Village into the stratosphere.

They include Linda Hertzberg, Lori Krimbill (co-chairs), Chris Cluff, and Stephanie Hazen from Camelback Village; Tracy Anctil, Billie Wartenberg, Esti Price, and Nathalie Young from DC Ranch Village; and Paula Letter and Kristine Reich from Gainey Village.

Photos by Dave Seibert

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Get the Most out of your membership!

June Kleier Membership Director, Ocotillo Village

Are you getting the most out of your membership? Are you being all that you can be? What’s on your bucket list or your goals for 2015? Could it be: running a marathon, hiking down into the Grand Canyon, touring Tuscany, losing weight, getting stronger, meeting new people, learning Tai Chi, mastering a down dog while in a hot yoga class…? I’m guilty myself of putting off some of my dreams, not exceeding my own expectations, and staying in my own cozy comfort zone. There are times (more than I would like to admit) when I come to the club and take my favorite classes, week after week, and don’t push myself or expand my options. I’m sure I’m not alone. With the new year here, it’s a perfect time to try something new and get more out of your membership! The Village is just the place for you to accomplish some of your dreams and goals!

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Here are my suggestions: Let’s Party! Do you want to make new friends or grow your business by networking? Each of our clubs offers adult and family parties throughout the year that are included in your membership, such as: casino night, holiday socials, pool parties, Hawaiian luaus, Halloween parties, Easter eggstravaganzas, beach bashes….

Remember, we are a social club as well as a fitness club, so come on out and party with us!

Try Something New! Have you ever wanted to try paddle boarding, kayaking, mountain climbing, white-water rafting, snow skiing, or participating in a triathlon?

What about taking a cooking class, CPR class, or learning about health and nutrition? Don’t wait! Try something new this year! At the Village, we offer all these activities and many more! We send emails to our members about upcoming events, we post all of our

adventures on our Facebook page, and we have informational flyers located at each club. Get out of your comfort zone and try something new! Who knows—you might like it!

Take a Hike! We live in one of the most beautiful and diverse states in our country. Get out and hike with the Village. We have guided hikes planned throughout the year for all levels and abilities. Hike here in the valley, take a day trip with us to Prescott, or go down into the Grand Canyon for several days and play in the waterfalls of Havasupai. The choice is yours!

Have a Ball! Did you know that “Have a Ball” is the name of a Village group exercise class? The description is: find muscles you didn’t know you had. Have a Ball is an all-over muscular conditioning class using the stability ball. This class is suitable for all levels and is an hour long. Each of our clubs offers about 150 group fitness classes each month that are included with your membership. Push yourself each week and try a new class. We have something for everyone: Village Hot Yoga, 20/20/20, Body Blast, Insane Boxing, Power Pilates, VHY, Boot Camp, Power Walking, H.I.I.T, Master Swim, Dance Fusion, Ballet Barre, Zumba, Kinesis, Liquid Fit, Go Ride, Hour of Power…I could go on and on. Our schedules are posted online, on our Village app, and in each club. So, have a ball and try something new in the new year!

Make at least one new goal for yourself this year and let the Village help you accomplish it! Don’t let another year go by without pushing yourself, trying the latest “it-class,” meeting other new fabulous Village members, exploring Arizona, and partying like it’s 1999.

Now I’ve just given away my age. With that said, I wish you a happy and healthy 2015!

BIG,DEEPBREATH

TAKE A

and revitalize your life

You know how to breathe, right? Sure, it’s something we all do every day and night of our lives, but do you ever think about HOW you are breathing?

Breathing is simple, instinctual, and most of us have forgotten how to do it.

Do you breathe like a baby? Have you ever watched an infant breathe? As breath comes in, the baby’s entire body seems to inflate…every bone, muscle, tissue and cell resonates with pure, peaceful, vibrant life source.

The natural rhythm of the baby’s breath is even, slow, smooth and steady. But over time, we develop stressful breathing patterns. Most of us breathe in quick, choppy, thin breaths and use only the upper portion of our lungs. Unfortunately, shallow breathing keeps us stuck in swirls of stress, tension and emotions that constrict our flow of prana, our vital energy.

Breathe Deep and Break Free from Stress Breathing deeply sends a signal to your brain to slow down. It gives the signal to release the fight-or-flight response, the undercurrent of stress most of us hold onto continuously and unconsciously. When we slow down and breathe deeply, our heart rate slows and our blood pressure lowers.

Our breath is an indicator of the condition of our nervous system. Our thoughts and emotions influence our breathing. For example, if something disturbing or upsetting happens, we gasp or abruptly inhale and maybe restrict or hold the breath. But when we experience profound beauty or love or pleasure we may let out a sigh, relax with a long exhale and breathe smoothly deeply and evenly.

Deborah Garland, Village Yoga Instructor

Start with Awareness Developing awareness of the breath may seem very easy for some people, but not so simple for others. Breath awareness requires us to detach a bit and play the role of observer…simultaneously observing and experiencing. Here are some easy ways to bring attention to your breath throughout the day: • Pause for a moment and notice how you are breathing.

Is your breath smooth, choppy, shallow, deep, steady, inconsistent?

• Listen to the sounds of your breath, and feel the temperature of your breath.

• F ollow the path of your breath as it flows in through the nostrils, inflates the lungs, then leaves your body.

• Feel your breath as your ribcage expands on the inhale and contracts on the exhale.

• S low down your inhale and see if you can draw air all the way deep into your belly, then gently breathe out.

As you become aware of your breath more of the time, your mind becomes relaxed and tranquil more of the time. Tension and blockages are released, and you begin to naturally breathe more deeply. Your vital energy can flow freely to nourish you, heal you, and revitalize you.

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Try this: Pretend that you experience something frightening, upsetting or alarming. Observe your breathing.

How do you feel? Next, imagine yourself experiencing something profoundly beautiful, tender and lovely… like smelling a beautiful fragrant flower, embracing a lover or watching the sunset over the ocean. How are you breathing? How do you feel?

It works both ways. Breath influences emotions and emotions influence the breath. If constricted, shallow breathing is your “normal” breath, then over time a pattern of stress, negative feelings and emotions may develop. But if full, deep and even breathing is your predominant pattern then positive, healthy emotional states become your natural way of life.

E•VOLVE FIT

AN EVOLUTION REVOLUTION FOR A BOOMING GENERATION!

Don’t call me a “Senior.” Some days I am limitless and my powers still amaze me. I can haul forty-pound bags of mulch from my car to the yard, dig a one foot-deep hole in under three minutes.

And some days, I am only mortal. I’m getting better at acknowledging my body’s signals for “hey, take it easy, will ya?” Our Village clubs have an amazing array of fitness offerings and exceptional instructors guiding each one. Sometimes I stand outside a class watching participants pant, bounce and sweat. It does make me smile, as I say to myself, “I’m glad it’s them and not me.”

Truthfully, I could, probably would, hurt myself in what others do with ease.

Injury is not an option. Illness is not an option. I take responsibility for protecting my vessel from these possibilities best I can. So what’s a semi-active, reasonably fit, 50-something to do?

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Over my years of working and creating in the fitness/ wellness world, I have had the great gift of working with many talented, educated, skilled and successful leaders in brain and body fitness. I have observed a possible “missing link” in our program offerings.

E•VOLVE FIT fills a need in our community. E•VOLVE FIT currently is offered as a class format with a “work-in-progress plan” for a possible comprehensive program, including classes, social gatherings, and small group trainings. E•VOLVE FIT includes body to mind fitness.

E•VOLVE FIT offers Boomers (ages 50 to 68 or thereabouts) who need a little something different than our all-level or advanced-level class offerings.

Classes include physical and mental movement and challenges. This class is very customizable.

Key elements of each class are strength, agility, flexibility, and maybe even a little cardio.

Equipment choices may include chairs, stability balls, bands, tubing, and weights. There are opportunities throughout to create new neural pathways and suggestions for how to continue the work outside of class.

The protocols for our classes and program are based upon tried-and-true research and practical studies accepted, adopted, and adapted by the American Council of Exercise, particular to the “evolving population,” and other experts in the studies of neuroplasticity and aging. Instructors of E•VOLVE FIT classes are trained specifically in our program. A participant in the program may find that some of the classes offered on our general schedule aren’t as out of reach as they had once thought after their activity and fitness levels increase through E•VOLVE FIT. We are truly excited to be growing this program from fertile soil upward! Currently there are two class offerings at Camelback Village, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 7:45 to 8:45. This is just a start. It is our belief that members will share in the excitement of this new (ad)venture. Let’s hear it for the evolution revolution beginning NOW at the Village Clubs! For more information, please contact Linda Hertzberg at lhertzberg@dmbclubs.com.

P. Casey Maples (formerly Fernandez) ACE-certified Senior Fitness Specialist; YA 500-hour yoga teacher; nationally certified, state-licensed massage therapist and bodyworker specializing in injury recovery and aging care.

Casey has been an instructor of wellness and fitness classes for over 15 years and a student of natural health and wellness sciences working toward her BA in Science.

VILLAGE

Greatest Loser

Get back on the fitness wagon

A motivating program for members wanting to get in shape, lose weight and/or try new things at the Village.

There are two separate competitions during the program: individual weight loss (male and female), and a team competition based on points earned. At the beginning of the program we take each participant’s weight, body composition and measurements as well as create teams of four (form yourself or we will place you).

At the end of the 8-week program we take post-measurements in order to determine the individual winners, and tally points to determine the winning team.

Teams earn points by doing challenges, cardio work, strength training, and taking group exercise classes (offered along with your Village membership—over 150 available each week) as well as the 20 special Greatest Loser group exercise classes including Mobility, HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training), Core Galore, Sweat Circuit, and Walk ’n’ Talks. These special classes are held by personal trainers who work with the Greatest Loser teams and encourage their progress. Working together allows camaraderie as well as healthy competition to develop between teammates as they strive for similar goals. It’s great to see members, even after the Greatest Loser is completed, continue to

2014

exercise with members they got to know while in the program or work with a personal trainer that they connected with during the competition.

Another unique benefit is that we offer access to our own registered dietitian, Brittney Clarizio. Throughout the Greatest Loser program, she consistently looks at food logs, hosts workshops, gives advice and motivates. She is a valuable asset to the program because even with the best fitness routine in place, weight loss and stamina will not be evident without the proper nutrition.

Lia Pulver, MS, ACSM, Fitness Director, Camelback Village

Megan Smith, fitness concierge and personal trainer, worked alongside Brittney to design our 2015 Greatest Loser program. If you have missed it this year, please remember it for next year (age 16 and up). We have some classes within the program that do continue throughout the year such as our Sweat Circuit and Mobility classes. Please feel free to reach out to me at lpulver@dmbclubs.com if you would like to try a complimentary class!

Have a happy and healthy 2015 and see you for the next Greatest Loser!

greatest loser program results:

Last year’s champions completed the program with impressive numbers:

JULIA SOHN 1st place female winner, lost 20.2 lbs and 8.8% body fat.

SCOTT WEISMAN 1st place male winner, lost 36.8 lbs and 6.2% body fat.

focus on

KIDS

fitness time =

family time

simple exercise activities you can do with your kids

Marcia Leach Get maximum value from your Family membership Youth Services Director, today—invite your kids to work out or warm up with Camelback Village you. Just remember that for their safety, children under the age of 14 shouldn’t use exercise machines or weights.

Give Me 10! Depending on your child’s ability, you can do push-ups or modified push-ups together. Or make your workout more challenging by adding your child’s weight to yours!

Walk It Out! Walk, jog, or run around the track together. Add lunges, side lunges, or squats in different areas. Challenge yourself and give your child a piggyback ride!

Balance the Core. Get a Bosu ball or balance board from the fitness hallway and do some balancing challenges, crunches, and planks.

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Everybody Jump! Kids love to jump rope and you can get a great cardio workout, too! Jump ropes are available in the fitness hallway.

Yoga is for everyone!

Kids enjoy fun stretches and exercises at Kids Yoga, Tuesdays at Gainey Village!

Ladder Up! Use the new ladder design on the north side of the basketball court to do some drills—or just play hopscotch!

Don’t forget that the club has many family-friendly areas such as the basketball court, racquetball and tennis courts, backfield and playground, track, and recreational pool. Please be sure to check the schedules and make the appropriate reservations in advance.

If you would be interested in a Family Fit Workshop to learn more about safe and appropriate exercises for kids as well as ways to better utilize the club as a family, please contact Marcia Leach, Camelback Village Youth Services Director, at 602.553.4947 or mleach@dmbclubs.com.

(Note: any references to specific equipment or facilities in this article pertain to Camelback Village, but inquire at your club location about similar availabilities.)

VILLAGE KIDS

autumn adventures

Sound the Alarm!

The Scottsdale Fire Department brought a truck to the parking lot at Gainey Village in November and spent some time visiting with members.

Kids got to go inside the truck with the firefighters and received a fire hat of their own.

Piper and Taylor Ford

A Night On The Glow!

The kids were having a glowing good time at Camelback Village on October 24. Grins 2 Go Photography captured some spooky images during the festivities.

Chloe Kurtzman and Daisy Derrberry show off their glowing smiles!

Mailyn Ramos shows off her glowing nursing skills.

Little Miss Kitty, Londen Cairney.

Camelback Village

DC Ranch Village

Gainey Village

Marcia Leach, Youth Service Director

Kim Miller, Youth Service Director

Kristin Bullock, Youth Service Director

mleach@dmbclubs.com

kmiller@dmbclubs.com

kbullock@dmbclubs.com

we’ll help you

unwind

Spa

sational

new happenings

at the Village Spas!

Who’s Winning?

You are!

Is all the excitement of having the the Super Bowl right here in town just a little too much? Why not escape to the spa for a great deal during the big game? On February 1, 2015 any one-hour treatment with a start time of 2:30 pm or later will be discounted by the number of points accrued by the team in the lead at the time you check out. The more they score the more dollars you save!

Appointment availability is limited so book early.

what is fit skin? g• glowing • firm • stron smooth • happy • gorgeous • healthy 20 | bet terlife winter 2015

powerful

Meet Mio: high intensity bodycare

We are excited to announce the newest bodycare line at the Village Spas! Mio fit skin for life is here to enhance your fitness goals and help you feel your best. The definition of “fit skin” is subjective and personal. It is YOUR skin working at peak performance and looking its best. It’s NOT some Hollywood ideal, retouched to perfection but totally unachievable. Mio makes fit skin realistic and achievable and, therefore, it makes you happy!

Bliss Triple

Oxygen Facial has Arrived

Bliss has the answer to tired winter skin. We are proud to introduce the Bliss Triple Oxygen Facial. We start with an energizing cleanse followed by the tingly triple oxygen mask. An eye treatment to reduce fine lines and puffiness is followed by an energizing cream that leaves skin dewy and helps promote collagen synthesis with super-charged vitamin C. Enjoy this breath of fresh air for your face, now at the Village Spas.

The Village Spas pride themselves in recruiting only the best service providers in the industry to provide you with exceptional spa and salon services. Whether you are looking for a quick manicure, a full day of relaxation or a specific therapeutic treatment, we have the diverse staff to ensure your expectations are exceeded.

Bundle Up is Back all January Long

While we only have to fight a slight winter’s chill here in the Valley of the Sun, it still pays to “bundle up” this January. Schedule three one-hour treatments on the same day for one person and we’ll throw in a complimentary lunch entrée and glass of wine all for $240. Extend your day with a fourth treatment and the price only increases to $310.

Choose from a 60-minute massage, 60-minute facial, seasonal body treatment, haircut/ style, or manicure AND pedicure.

Available through the entire month of January.

A Sweet Treat

this February

Journey to the land of never-ending bliss this Valentine’s Day! Enjoy our most decadent seasonal body treatment yet—The Salted Caramel Chocolate Truffle Escape.

This organic service begins with a whipped honey sea salt exfoliation to smooth and rejuvenate. Next, a warm dark-chocolate softening mask is painted on. You are then cocooned in warmth as you bask in the antioxidant-rich CoQ10 enzymes. Finally, a light peppery caramel massage takes you away. Combine with a massage and facial to make a complete day.

Available through the entire month of February.

Even More Sweets!

Attention All P.F. Chang’s Rock ’n’ Roll Arizona marathon participants!

This year’s race is scheduled for Sunday, January 18. The Village Spas want to reward you for your achievement. Bring in your bib number following the marathon and receive a one-hour massage for $75 (good January 18 – 23, 2015).

Bring a guest with you and they will also receive this special rate!

This year, we continue our tradition of including a complimentary box of Godiva Chocolates with every gift card sold February 1 – 14. On Valentine’s Day, enjoy a glass of champagne or indulge in chocolate-covered strawberries when you have your service performed on February 14.

The Spa at Camelback Village

The Spa at dc ranch Village

The Spa at gainey Village

602.553.4917

480.515.5522

480.609.6980

Carrie Clarke, Spa Director

Constance McCarty, Spa Director

Kirk Gregor, Spa Director

what’s cookin’

good lookin’

Pantry Raid

+Checklist

review your pantry, clean out and restock

We all strive to make smarter nutrition choices for a healthy lifestyle.

Consider a successful pantry raid to assist in setting yourself up for success and avoiding potential land mines.

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Tess DeBlander, MS, is adjunct faculty (online) for the University of Phoenix and teaches Health and Wellness, Nutrition, and Fitness Courses.

She joined the Village instructor team in September, 2014.

Review your pantry, clean out and restock.

Start by taking a survey of what you have in the pantry (and why). Are the cookies for the kids—or you? Surveying the pantry provides insight into your typical eating patterns, strengths and areas that may need improvement. Every time you open the pantry door, the food you see beckons to be eaten. Watch out for trouble foods: • Fat-free items that can have more sugar/calories than the “full fat” versions.

• Unnaturally colorful items (loaded with artificial colors).

• Multi-grain breads which do not have whole grain as the first ingredient.

• Food labeled “natural” or “made with real fruit” (marketing jargon).

• A nything that has a super-long ingredient list with items that are impossible to pronounce.* During the clean out, decide whether each item stays or goes. If it’s stale or outdated/dented, toss it. If it’s been in the pantry for over a year taking up space, donate it. If sugar is the first or second ingredient, plan to replace it with healthier options. Do the same with high-sodium products.

Restock so the healthiest foods are at eye level, while less-healthy foods are further from sight or hard to reach. Using smart phone apps such as Fooducate, you can scan a barcode and grade a food’s nutritional value.

A sample pantry checklist for restocking includes: • Vegetables and fruits: Canned foods can be just as healthy as fresh (opt for low-sodium versions)— diced tomatoes, marinara sauce (tomatoes and herbs/spices on the ingredients list), fruits, peaches, oranges, veggies, corn, dried fruits.

• Nuts, seeds, beans, other proteins: Go for unsalted or reduced-salt nuts. Avoid beer nuts and high-salt mixed-nuts. Beans are powerhouses; dried beans taste better than canned. Canned salmon, tuna, and sardines have protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Natural peanut butter or nut butters.

• Pastas and grains: Brown rice, couscous, bulgur, oatmeal, barley, buckwheat, quinoa, popcorn, whole-grain cereal (low-sugar, i.e.: Cheerios). Limit white pasta and flour.

• Herbs, spices, oils, and flavor enhancers: dried garlic, curry, cinnamon, dried parsley, oregano, cumin, saffron, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, reduced-sodium chicken broth. Spices have a shelf life of 1 – 2 years. (Old spices lose flavor, but won’t make you sick.)

• Goal: Raid your pantry and try to identify 1 – 2 trouble foods and find ways to remake the pantry into a healthier place for 2015. *

Muth, N. (2013). Pantry Raid! IDEA Food and Nutrition Tips. Nov – Dec 2013.

awesome and easy Pudding from Avocados Avocados are said to “help curb your appetite,” due to the “healthy fats” that digest slowly, keeping you feeling full and your blood sugar stable. They offer protein, fiber and folate. Consider mashing an avocado and mixing in a dash of chipotle powder, cumin, and black pepper and using this instead of mayo on a sandwich.

Avocado Chocolate Pudding 3 medium avocados ∞ cup dates (soaked)

∞ cup maple syrup or agave nectar 1 tsp vanilla extract

∞ to 1 cup water as desired for texture tsp cinnamon to taste

cup unsweetened Hershey powder or cacao powder

Blend: 3 medium avocados, 1/2 cup dates soaked in 1/3 cup water, 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave nectar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 3/4 cup unsweetened Hershey powder or cacao powder, 1/2 to 1 cup water as desired for texture, 1/4 tsp cinnamon to taste.

Mix until it looks and tastes like a chocolate mousse—add some strawberries on the side and enjoy!

(The kids will never know.)

Tess DeBlander, Group Exercise Instructor

TAI CHI Yield: 1 dozen muffins

By Brittney Clarizio, BS, RD, bclarizio@dmbclubs.com

with master willie lim

Tai Chi Chuan is the art of life and the harmony of the spirits, the beauty of which lies in the aesthetic principles of all genuine movements. The soft ever-flowing movement of Tai Chi can be best described as “Meditation in Motion.” It is a total exercise—one that encompasses the body, mind, and spirit.

The soft motion of Tai Chi Chuan massages the internal organs, thus clearing the gates of corresponding meridians (natural energy pathways throughout the body); thereby promoting body harmony and better health.

The Village is privileged to have Grand Master Willie Lim as our Tai Chi instructor. Willie travels around the world sharing the classical way of Tai Chi. He has been a pioneer in the field of martial arts for over five decades. Willie was a nominee for Martial Artist of the Century and holds many honors and certificates. Come meet Master Willie Lim and enjoy the fine art of Tai Chi.

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Tai Chi Chuan aids in stress reduction and in the enhancement of vital energy. The slow graceful movements make it an ideal exercise for those with hypertension, arthritis or those with any body imbalance. Further, it promotes longevity and is an ideal form of self-defense.

BIKE

GIVEAWAY Three Village members take home the prize!

CAMELBACK

FLOOD

October 2014 was a special month for the Village member referral program in three ways.

For each new membership that was referred by a current member: • a $10 donation was made to Mobile On-site Mammography (MOM).

• as always, the current member received a free month of dues.

• the current member’s name was entered into a one-time drawing for a fat tire beach cruiser bike by Sikk Cycles.

A drawing was held at each club and the winners were Jennifer Sheedy at Camelback Village, Romanita Nica at DC Ranch Village, and Jane Caplan at Gainey Village. Congratulations to all three!

SEPTEMBER 8, 2014 Dear Camelback Village members,

As many of you know, on September 8, 2014 the Camelback Mountain area was hit with 5 – 6 inches of rain in one hour. This resulted in heavy flooding of a large portion of Camelback Village Racquet & Health Club.

With a Herculean effort by staff from all clubs, we were able to reopen the club after only one day of closure. The damage was so severe that much drywall, floor covering, and millwork had to be torn out and replaced. Probably the single most devastating loss was the basketball court which had been rebuilt just a few months earlier.

Redwall Construction Company, specialists in water damage mitigation and restoration, did a superb job bringing the club back to even better than its original glory. They did much of the work at night to minimize disruption to you, our members.

Everything, including a beautiful new basketball court, is put back together. While we were able to keep almost everything running as usual, including Ricky’s Temporary Outdoor Tiki Bar, during the restoration, we know there was a certain amount of dust and noise that you had to endure.

J ennifer Sheedy picks up her prize from Camelback Village.

Romanita Nica with her new beach cruiser bike.

I, as general manager, and our entire Camelback staff want to thank you for your patience during the inconvenience the flooding caused. We also greatly appreciate a number of you who commiserated with us and thanked us for our efforts in restoring the club. We look forward to serving you in 2015.

Sincerely, John Smallfield General Manager, Camelback Village

Dr. Jane Caplan took home the Gainey Village prize.

OCOTILLO

shaping up

Families are flocking to our newest club in Chandler.

Construction—and memberships—are moving quickly at the new Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa in Chandler. And considering the East Valley’s family-centric reputation, it should come as no surprise that Family memberships have been the top sellers at this all-new Village scheduled to open in April.

“The reception from local families has been incredible,” says June Kleier, membership director at Ocotillo Village Health Club & Spa. “Every day we are getting visits from local moms and dads, with their families in tow, who are so excited to finally have a health club where children are not just welcome, but encouraged.”

Of course, existing Village members simply have to look around their local club to see all the familyfriendly fun, from the kids-only activities to unique offerings such as children’s fencing lessons. But according to Kleier, most of the visitors walking into the Ocotillo Village’s temporary on-site membership office assume the club will offer childcare and that’s about it. “Their faces really light up when we explain that the Village is a great club for families. Aside from offering childcare for all ages, the new Ocotillo Village will also offer junior basketball leagues, junior tennis development programs, and even summer fitness camps.”

That said, perhaps the most exciting development to report is the beehive of construction activity that’s quickly transforming this once-barren plot overlooking the Ocotillo lakes into the latest Village Health Club & Spa. If you haven’t been yet, consider this your personal invitation to come out and visit

Kleier and her staff, and take a look at all the highly coordinated construction chaos it takes to build a Village Club from the ground up.

When complete in just a few short months, this all-new 82,000-square-foot facility will feature a wide range of amenities, including seven tennis courts, a hot yoga studio, and a great outdoor aquatic area. Plus, lots and lots of happy, healthy families.

Pre-Enrollment Perks In addition to great introductory pricing, Ocotillo members who pre-enroll will be treated to exciting perks.

Some of these exciting offers include exclusive happy hours, on-site barbecues, family parties, and other events designed to get everyone together and ready for opening day.

Satisfaction Guaranteed Ocotillo charter members have 30 days after the club opens to cancel their membership and get 100 percent of their enrollment fee back. But with the care and quality that’s going into the development of this new addition to the Village family, it’s unlikely that anyone will take advantage of this guarantee.

The reception from local families has been incredible.

June Kleier

TGen cycle for the cure Get ready now for the 5th Annual Cycle for the Cure, Sunday, May 3! The Village Health Clubs have been avid supporters since the inception of Cycle. Last year the event raised a record $154,000 to benefit scientific breakthroughs at TGen (Translational Genomics Research Institute).

Village members Robyn DeBell and Vicki Vaughn are this year’s Cycle for the Cure co-chairs. All of the funds generated by this event support cancer research at TGen, and most of the patients who benefit from TGen research are Arizonans.

The 2-hour indoor cycling event is held at all Village locations at variable times throughout the day. The event concludes with a festive celebration at Camelback Village, with live music provided by the Nate Nathan Band.

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TGen (based in downtown Phoenix) is focused on research and development of personalized medicine to enable physicians to deliver care more effectively. Using genomic sequencing, TGen helps doctors match the appropriate therapy to each patient’s DNA profile, producing the greatest patient benefit.

focus on members

Gainey Village Celebrates 15 Years Gainey Village celebrated its 15th anniversary on October 23 with a Lucky “15” Casino Party! There was a champagne toast by President Carol Nalevanko and Gainey Village General Manager Greg Nakagawa talking about 15 wonderful years with all our great members and looking forward to many more!

ainey Village General Manager G Greg Nakagawa and Village Health Clubs President Carol Nalevanko with their special light-up champagne glasses at Casino Night.

top Members raised their glasses after the toast by

General Manager Greg Nakagawa. Close to 500 Village members came out for the Lucky “15” Casino Night party. left Eric and Kim Carlson (left) with Natalie and Jeff Dalton having fun at Casino Night.

A BIG THANK YOU! We would like to thank the following businesses for their generous donations that helped make the silent auction a huge success. Close to $5000 was raised for the TGen Foundation in the silent auction.

Arizona Inspirations Catering

Gainey Suites Hotel

Arizona Outback Adventures

Grayhawk Golf Club

Razz’s

Barrio Queen

Jennifer’s Catering and Events

Charles Barkley

Lululemon

Silverleaf Golf Club & The Phoenix Coyotes

Chas Roberts Air Conditioning and Plumbing

The Hyatt Regency

Chestnut Fine Foods Downside Risk Driver Provider

Phoenix Suns + Eric Bledsoe

Snooze Tim Mahoney

McCormick Ranch Golf Club

Ultra Smooth Skin

Naya

Village Tavern

Over Easy

Whisked Away

Personal Gourmet Food

Gainey Ranch Golf Club

photos

fall 2014 26

To have your Village Club event photo considered for the Focus on Members section next issue, please email it, with a short caption, to jbuterbaugh@dmbclubs.com (Camelback); tclark@dmbclubs.com (DC Ranch) or smcgann@dmbclubs.com (Gainey).

Ocotillo Village Sunday BBQ in the Park Guests and members spent a fun family afternoon at Tumbleweed Park in Chandler on November 30. Kids and adults alike enjoyed good food, relay games, an inflatable bounce castle and slide, a picture booth and an all-around great time. Village staff hosted the event for a growing Ocotillo Village community as they await the opening of their new club this spring.

2nd Annual DC Ranch Village Adult Halloween Party On Friday, October 24, Village members enjoyed a Halloween party magically handcrafted by Carly Cercone who took care of all the small details, which made the night look and feel so special. Members enjoyed spooky food provided by Straight to the Plate Catering, a fun photo booth called the Social Chimp, and delicious desserts. There were dancers, spirits, and of course the Thriller!

Best Female Costume award went to Egyptian Princess Kimberly Ridley shown here with her husband, Michael.

Best Male Costume award went to Old Man who fooled everyone and turned out to be Village employee Matthew Winberry (he gave his prize to another member).

Best Duo Costume award went to Gargoyle and Tall Pumpkin Head, Diane and Wonil Gregg.

illiam Bailey (left), plus guests, came to the W Halloween fright night for a spooky good time.

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Event photos Š Buttel Photography

focus on

members

Different

Strokes

A massive stroke changed this DC Ranch Village member’s life.

Now he’s back in the pool, REBUILDING HIS LIFE DAY BY DAY.

28 | bet terlife winter 2015

“You never know how you’re going to handle a situation until you’re in the middle of it,” reflects Alexandros “Lex” Assimacopoulos, who’s been battling all kinds of major medical issues for almost four years and knows he’s still got a long way to go.

“I beat the odds to survive a serious stroke and cancer,” he says. “I’m very glad to be alive, and the things that motivate me the most are my kids. They’re adults now, but I’ll always be their father.” Before his world came crashing down, Lex was a hard-partying agent for John Hall and Associates who thought he was invincible. “I had a lot of bad lifestyle habits and was risking a lot without paying attention,” he says.

“I had very high blood pressure, which was a warning sign, and even after spending two days in the hospital because of a mini-stroke, I went right back to doing what I was doing. Frankly, I had my massive stroke because I’m a dumb****.” We talked to Lex about his ability to deal with the things that have come his way, and about his drive to live independently and continue to improve himself.

“I learned a very difficult lesson that eventually the way you live is going to catch up to you.”

the village: Let’s run through all your medical issues, starting with the mini-stroke. lex assimacopoulos: That should have been a wake-up call, but I ignored it. Four months later, I broke both my arms in a construction accident. Then two months after that I had the big stroke. It was a bad hemorrhagic stroke, which means that a vein burst in my head. I was partially paralyzed on my right side, which was my dominant side, and I was in the hospital for two months. Then, to top it all off, a week later I was at the doctor’s office for a routine visit and they found out that I had bladder cancer.

That’s a lot to take in all at once… I just had to deal with it. My biggest goal has always been to be around for my son and daughter, who are both in their twenties.

What was your prognosis after you had the stroke?

They told me I’d be in a wheelchair the rest of my life.

And I said, ‘Bull****!’

What did the doctors think of that? Initially, I couldn’t walk or move my hands above my waist.

My doctors thought that I was kidding myself and they weren’t happy that I wanted to go home. I had to fight my doctors. It was a struggle to cook and eat with one hand, but I had to adjust and now I lead a very normal life. Now my doctors couldn’t be happier with my transformation. Six months ago, I showed my doctors a video of me running. They couldn’t believe it.

Were you always athletic? I was a triathlete before it was even cool to be one. I’ve been racing for about 35 years.

Lex with his kids, Dominique and Alexander.

Do you think you’ll ever compete again? I already do!

I’ve actually raced five times in the last six weeks and finished a full triathlon two weeks ago.

How do you train for the races now? Klas Kuntze is my triathlon coach at the Village. He works with a lot of club members through his company, YBCC. I’ve had to learn how to swim all over again and he’s helped me tremendously. Klas also teaches spin classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at the Core Clinic. It took me almost two years before I could ride a real bike, but now I’m riding three two-hour training rides a week. I just rode in the Tour de Scottsdale!

In addition to your training, how else have you benefited from being a Village member? There are a lot of people who want to know about my stroke and how it relates to them in their own lives. People were very supportive while I went through chemotherapy and surgeries for my cancer, and I’ll be a two-year survivor in January.

There are many people at the club who are going through different and difficult health issues, and the inspiration I’ve received from them has gotten me through some very tough days.

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Did you ever think you weren’t going to make it?

The first year was really tough, and I wasn’t sure what was going to happen. It was like having the ultimate hangover for a whole year. But after that I got more confidence. I still have lots of issues—in the last two-and-a-half I’ve had 12 surgeries—but I’m willing to put the effort in to survive and deal with the ups and downs … I learned a very difficult lesson, that eventually the way you live is going to catch up to you, especially when you get middle aged.

I thought I was invincible, and I worked all day and I partied all night. I now get checked every three months by my primary care physician and follow his advice 100 percent. And I’m extremely grateful to my higher power for the strength to survive.

When did you start going to the Village?

I joined about four months after I had my stroke. Between weight training and swimming—and getting my nails done with Anna in the spa, which is kind of a secret—I’m at the club at least five days a week or more. The real core of my therapy is done at Endurance Rehab six days a week, where I spend a great deal of time learning how to run again, improve my balance, and strengthen my core. It’s taken an amazing amount of hard work, and when I’m not home I’m working out somewhere. What’s great about the Village is that I can really focus on building my strength.

It took me a while just to be able to get into the machines, but now I’m working with Kevin Shephard in the weight room and seeing great results. While rehab is the basis of my wellbeing, the Village adds that extra dimension I need as an athlete.

spot social Ever wonder how to use the Kinesis wall, or how you can get the most out of a foam roller? Want to see a virtual tour of Ocotillo Village?

Contests, healthy living tips, videos, events and so much more—have you connected with the Village online yet?

Our YouTube page is full of videos for you to watch—check it out!

Join over 8,000 other Villagers and “like” us online so you don’t miss a beat!

Facebook.com/VillageHealthClubs Facebook.com/CamelbackVillage Facebook.com/TheVillageDCRanch Facebook.com/GaineyVillage Facebook.com/OcotilloVillage @VillageClubs

Are you following @VillageClubs on Instagram? Be sure to connect with us for quick workout videos, party photos, new Boutique arrivals, club updates, and much more!

Be sure to tag us in your workout photos—you might be featured on our page!

Check out these members we #CaughtAtTheVillage!

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YouTube.com/User/VillageClubsAndSpas Blog.VillageClubs.com @VillageClubs Village Health Clubs + Spas Love the Village?

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january 30 | bet terlife winter 2015

SUPER 60” TV Drawing It’s going to be SUPER! For every new membership you refer in January, your name will be entered into a drawing for one of four SUPER 60” TVs we’re giving away. Not only will you receive a free month of dues, but you could also WIN a brand new TV for watching the only game in town on February 1.

For more information, please contact your Membership department.

Let your guests stay at our house.

They’ll love the all-suites boutique hotel ranked as “one of Scottsdale’s best” on TripAdvisor, featuring $2.2 million in enhancements including the stunning new pool area and Terrace Bar by the oasis-like courtyard…along with the Gainey Suite Dreams Bed, HDTV and free WiFi. Plus, they can savor a complimentary full hot breakfast buffet and evening reception daily with appetizers, beer, wine & soft drinks. No resort fees, so book today!

7300 E. Gainey Suites Drive | Scottsdale, AZ 85258 800.970.4666 | 480.922.6969 | gaineysuiteshotel.com

happy

valentine’s day

Roses are red, violets are blue...

They’ll love any gift, as long as it’s from you.

Your Village Boutique will be offering a FREE gift with purchase for Valentine’s Day. So come get your sweetie a little sumpin’ to show you care, and get a little something extra for YOU! Watch for details to be announced February 1.

winter 2015 bet terlife | 31

You can stress over what to get your sweetie, but in the end all they’ll want is you.

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