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.
Main Number: 480-832-0000
Administration Reception Ext. 101 reception@lwca.com
Sanitas Medical
LW On-Site Office
480-741-8041
Compliance Office Ext. 115
Facilities Department Ext. 109 facilities@lwca.com
Finance Department Ext. 119 finance@lwca.com
Fitness Center Ext. 212 fitness@lwca.com
Golf Coyote Run: Ext. 300 Heron Lakes: Ext. 400
Golf Course Conditions 480-832-0005
Landscape Department Ext. 201 landscape@lwca.com
Library Ext. 128
LW News/Communications Ext. 210 news@lwca.com outreach@lwca.com
Recreation Department Ext. 209 recreation@lwca.com
RE/MAX Classic Ext. 705
Resource Office Ext. 126 resources@lwca.com
Security Department Opt. 1 security@lwca.com
John
The current Via Norte yard hours are: 6:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 8:00 a.m. – 12:00
Owned by the Leisure World Community Association. Published monthly on the 1st
Communications/LW News Office: 480-832-0000 ext. 210, news@lwca.com
Communications and Community Affairs Director: + Diana Bridgett, dbridgett@lwca.com
Communications Supervisor: Carley Cathemer, ccathemer@lwca.com
Advertising Specialist: Elizabeth Ramos, eramos@lwca.com
Graphic Designer: Erica Odello, eodella@lwca.com
Contributing Writers: E.B. Blacke, Sue De Carlo, Larry Caves, Patti Diamond, Mary Ellen doValle, C. Barry Ingerson, Dr. Carol S. Kessler PhD, Sherry Rinddels-Larsen Ken Weinstock, and Kay West
LW Newspaper Resident Advisor: Ronda Gates, MS
FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION: 480-832-0000 Ext. 117 or eramos@lwca.com
DEADLINE FOR ADS: 15th of month
The acceptance of advertising in LW News does not constitute an endorsement or approval of any products or services by LWCA or management.
DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES:
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 years.
District1@ LWCA.com, District3@ LWCA.com, District4@ LWCA.com, District5@ LWCA.com, District6@ LWCA.com, District7@ LWCA.com, District8@ LWCA.com
Founded in 2007, the Leisure World Foundation provides charitable help for the elderly, handicapped, and distressed individuals in Mesa, Arizona, including the Leisure World community.
Volunteers
Leisure World is blessed by hundreds of volunteers yearly who contribute their time and talents to make a difference. These volunteers are pivotal in helping organize and run the many recreation and philanthropic activities throughout the community. The Leisure World Library and Foundation are operated solely by volunteers.
Have fun. Be active. Make a difference.
At Leisure World Arizona, we pride ourselves on creating an atmosphere that residents enjoy every minute of every day. Whether you are retired or soon will be, you’ll enjoy everything we have to offer. Our friendly and courteous staff are ready to help you kick back, relax, or dive into your next adventure.
city amenities and be part of an ageless generation.
For more information about our clubs or volunteering, contact the Recreation Department at 480-832-0003 ext. 206.
Leisure World cordially invites all to the 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 to 10:00 am.
Please update your billing information with the Finance Office before you leave for the Summer. Contact Finance at 480-832-0000 ex 119 or email finance@lwca.com
Be an active member of the Leisure World community by participating in one of our many clubs and activities. Whether you love chess, billiards, tennis, or philanthropy, we have something for you.
Join our community with small-town charm and big-
Copies of How Leisure World Works – Leisure World Arizona Guide, everything you need to know about our community are available at the Administration Reception Desk.
Leisure World is updating our database. If it’s been more than 3 years since you had your picture taken for Leisure World, or if you never have, please stop by the Administration Front Desk to have your picture taken any weekday between 9 am and 2 pm. If you have a selfie or a headshot you would like us to use email it to reception@lwca.com Some of our current photos of residents are outdated and/or unrecognizable. A recognizable, current photo will help enhance security and keep our software updated.
Penny is hiding inside one of the three sections of the paper. To participate in this contest, see rules below.
Rules:
• Your email must be sent to news@lwca.com.
• 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 are to be picked up in the Communication/ Recreation Office.
• All correct answers will be collected by the 15th of each month and the winner will be chosen at random.
• There will only be one winner per month.
The Nominating Committee wants you to know!
Elect District Council Members
(One vote per Manor)
Council Members serve two-year terms Elections are in November in odd number years for D1, D3, D5, & D7; in even number years for D4, D6, & D8 (there is no D2).
(Chairperson, Vice-Chair, Secretary, Treasurer)
There is one council for each of the seven Leisure World districts. Each district council’s chairperson automatically has a seat on the Leisure World community association board.
(“the board”)
Your elected district chairperson represents your district’s interests on the board.
Leisure World Community Association (LWCA) is a self-governed community. This means if you own property in Leisure World (your name is on the deed or you are a trustee if the home is in a trust) AND you live in Leisure World at least sixty days out of the year, then YOU decide who governs our community, who is on your District Council and who is on the Leisure World Board of Directors.
If you don’t like something about Leisure World or want things to stay the same, then run for office, vote in your district elections, and go to your district council and board meetings.
How District Leadership Works District council positions are chair, the vice-chair, secretary, and treasurer—sometimes the secretary/ treasurer position is held by one person. Each council member serves for two years. Each district council chair holds a seat on the board of directors.
What does the LW Board of Directors Do?
The Leisure World Board of Directors act as business managers for Leisure World by:
• Setting the budget (HOA dues) and managing LWCA’s money;
• Hiring the Community Manager, who manages the administrative functions of LW (oversees daily operations, property maintenance and administrative tasks ensuring LW runs efficiently while implementing Board policies);
• Hiring professionals to assist (lawyers, CPAs, and others);
• Establishing and enforcing rules and regulations related to the use and occupancy of LW facilities and manors; and,
• Appointing committees to help the Board fulfill their duties (Architectural Control Committee (ACC), Long-Range Planning Committee (LRPC), and the Nominating Committee).
If you are interested in the complete list of the LWCA Board’s powers and duties, see LW Bylaws Section 4.4 . The LWCA Board of Directors is where the business of our Community gets done!
You have a direct say on who is on the Board by voting for your District Council chair. Elections are held for even numbered districts in even numbered years and odd numbered districts in odd numbered years. In November 2026 Districts 4, District 6, and District 8 will be holding elections for district council members— chair, vice-chair, secretary, and treasurer. Section 6.3 of the LWCA Bylaws lists the duties of each office: their respective districts and shall see that the directives as prescribed by the Articles, Declarations, Bylaws, and Rules and Regulations are followed. The Chair shall be the representative of their District as a Director on the LWCA Board.
a. The Vice Chair shall take the place of the Chair and perform the Chair’s duties whenever the Chair is absent or unable to act.
b. The Secretary shall record the notes and keep the minutes of all meetings and proceedings of the District Council.
c. The Treasurer shall receive and account for all monies of the District Council and disburse such funds for appropriate District Council purposes.
d. Note: The duties of the Secretary and Treasurer can be combined into one position held by one person.
Per Section 6.6 of the LWCA By laws it is the duty and
responsibility of the District Council to promote the efficient management and operation of their respective Districts and of the Community by keeping the Board informed as to problems existing in their Districts and by making suggestions which will contribute to the improvement in the living conditions and the social life of the Community. The District Councils shall assist the Board in any manner in which the Board may direct or request through the Chair of the District Council. Your District Council is the vital connection between residents and the Board.
Do you like talking to your neighbors? Do you want to make Leisure World a better place to live? Consider running for district council—YOU can make a difference by participating in the Leisure World selfgoverning COMMUNITY!
Elections for Districts 4, 6, and 8 are this year! Any questions about running for office can be directed to your district’s representative on the LW Nominating Committee:
D4 David Hoel Manor 875 davidhoel@gmail.com
D6 Janet Kelly Manor 2311 hhejan36@gmail.com
D8 Claudine Sanchez-Parrott Manor 2262 stevesmom55@gmail.com
Or contact, Leisure World Executive Assistant Robin Mann at rmann@lwca.com or, you can drop by Robin’s office in the LW Administration Building during work hours.
Your community is counting on your participation. Leisure World works because residents step up, get involved, and lead. Will you be one of them?
Leisure World hosts informative speaker events called Meet and Eats. These sessions are led by a local business and as the title suggests they are followed by a free lunch. Supporting these events is a great way to boast your knowledge and keep our vendor relationships flourishing. Register online, via ext. 212 or by visiting the Fitness Center.
Neck Pain, Headaches And Dizziness: Are they Related and What Are The Best Exercises Treatments to Heal Naturally and Stay Active.
Description and what you will learn:
1. Common cause of neck pain and headaches
2. How trauma and weakness in the neck can contribute to pain and dizziness?
3. What are the best exercise to help with neck pain, headaches or dizziness
4.How to choose the right exercises or treatment when you are in pain to treat the cause and stay active and healthy
5. Why don’t I get lasting relief from massage, chiropractic or traditional physio.
Wed, April 1st
1:00-2:00PM Rec 1 theater
Call 480-832-0000 ext 212 or visit www.lwca.com to RSVP.
Thursday, April 2
1:00 to 2:00PM Rec 1 Theater
Exclusively for People with Nerve Damage Symptoms. If you have ANY of these symptoms, YOU NEED TO ATTEND THIS EVENT!
• Numbness: Prickling/Tingling Feeling
• Sharp Electric Pain: Symptoms Traveling up Legs
• Cramping, Aching
• Burning Pain
• Difficulty Sleeping from Leg/Foot Discomfort
• Hurting When you Walk
• Balance Problems
Learn the latest about Neuropathy. Seating is Limited! Call 480-832-2000 ext 212 or vist www. Iwca.com to RSVP.
Key Retirement invites you to come learn about Wills & Trusts! You will learn the following:
• The advantages and disadvantages of Wills and Revocable
• Living Trusts
• Why you need a FUNDED trust to avoid Probate.
• Do you have a digital medical directive you can take with you anywhere at any time?
• How Probate works and why your family should try to avoid it
• Strategies to help protect inheritances from lawsuits, divorce, and spendthrifts
• If you don’t know what funding is regarding an estate plan, you need to be at this event
• •Learn how to make instant changes to your estate plan, anywhere at any time, no cost.
• Learn about the 10 benefits a book trust doesn’t provide.
• Do you take your book trust with you when you travel?
• Is your trust automatically updated with any legislative changes?
• Do you know if you have a partial or fully funded trust?
Friday, April 3rd 1:00-2:00PM Rec 1 Theater
Please call 480.832.0000 ext. 212 or visit www.lwca. com to RSVP.
Turning 65? Live with Chronic Conditions? Need help finding a new doctor? SCAN is here to educate you on everything “Medicare” and help you make the best educated decisions on your health care. Join us April 7th and enjoy some snacks while we answer all your pressing Medicare questions!
Tues, April 7th 12:00-1:00 PM Rec. 1 Theater
Call 480-832-0000 ext. 212 or visit www.lwca.com to RSVP.
Can Your Evacuation Service Do What SkyMed Can? SkyMed International offers premier emergency air evacuation services designed for you. Whether you’re exploring the world or staying close to home, our 24/SEVEN coverage ensures you’re never far from world-class medical care
Join us for a free lunch & learn! Tues, April 14th 1:00-2:00PM
A popular streaming service has reached out to LW in hopes of creating their next hit TV show focusing on life inside 55+ retirement communities. Without spoiling too many details, they are in search of 4-5 individuals or couples who would be interested in representing Leisure World. These individuals would be subject to round the clock filming as well as press interviews and possible tours. If you have funny stories or memories to share or if you would just like to observe, they will be hosting an open mic to assess the entertainment value. Please join us in the Rec. 4 Conference Hall on Wednesday, April 1st from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Just kidding, Happy April Fools!
Date: Happy April Fools Day
Time: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Rec. 4 Conference Hall
Meet & Greet presented by Sanitas Medical Group Primary Care. Come learn directly from your trusted primary. care team and a cardiology specialist. Featuring guest speaker, Interventional Cardiologist, Nachiket Patel MD & Dr. Kung & Dr. Powell, your doctors at Leisure World!
Date: Tuesday, April 21st
Time: 1:00pm–2:00 Pm.
Where: Location: Rec. 1 Theater
Please Call 480-832-0000 Ext. 212 or visit www.lwca.com To RSVP
Please join us for an American Funds presentation titled “Social Security and Retirement,” hosted by Edward Jones.
Whether you’ve spent years thinking about your future retirement, or you’re just starting to build your retirement income strategy, now is a great time to join this session and learn more about the ways Social Security can fit into your future plans.
To help you get more complete understanding of how Social Security can fit within your retirement income plan, we’ll cover:
• Facts you need to know about Social Security, including what to consider before starting benefits.
• Stories that bring crucial Social Security decisions to life, considering your work history, marital status and more.
• Key points on Medicare and how it may complement your retirement income plan.
• Next steps to help you integrate Social Security benefits into your retirement income plan.
The presentation is scheduled for: Wednesday, April 29 2026 12:00pm - 1:30pm Rec. 1 Theater Lunch will be served.
Please call 480-832-0000 ext.212 or visit www.lwca. com to RSVP.
Since I have started working here at Leisure World five years ago, there is one statement that I have heard consistently which is…” This is our community and our home. We love it here!” I can’t tell you how good that makes the staff feel when we hear this because it means that we are doing our jobs in such a great way that it makes YOU, the residents have pride in where you live.
With all of the conversations surrounding modernizing Leisure World, it really is the charm and the little hidden spots that separate us from others. As beautiful as the community is, what I have come to realize just by building so many awesome relationships here is that consideration, respect, and patience is the backbone of which strong communities are built on.
I have seen so many acts of kindness throughout this
community whether it comes from neighbors coming together to assist a neighbor who has health issues to seeing fitness members cheer one another on while lifting weights. I have also heard residents speak of how they are going to an event to support a friend. I will use the Theatre club as an example. All three shows were sold out because neighbors filled those seats to support one another. These are the moments when I hear people say, “This is why we live here,” and these are the moments where staff feel good to work here.
Community is a wonderful concept. It allows us all to feel connected to not only the place that we live and work in but also to one another. When we live life with gratitude and joy in our hearts, we move around others without limiting views or self-serving perspectives. The thought of “mine” becomes “ours” and the idea of “me” becomes “we.” The best interest of the collective is the goal instead of the interest of self. We move with the intent to help and understand. Our first reactive
thought is consideration and not degradation. We move with a purpose to unite and work together. This is the strength of communities that are successful.
As we say goodbye to some of our friends and prepare for the summer months here at Leisure World, I give you this thought; what a wonderful world it is to live in when our connections are authentic, our hearts are full, our perspectives wide, and our voices are heard and respected. “Community is not just about being together, it’s about doing life together.” -unknown
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
April!
Though I have my qualms with warmer weather, I must admit I am looking forward to all the coming months have to offer. Sweating is par for the course, but I am choosing to be excited for the longer days and the summer activities headed my way. Between Pixar movies and splash pads, my home is already full of summer energy.
For those who have begun to stay indoors, allow me to make a recommendation. This last month, my spouse and I buddy-read Andy Weir’s Project Hail Mary just in time for the movie release of the same name. The experience of reading, then watching this story come to life, was
such a joy! The storytelling, the science, the friendship, and the overall visuals of this movie-book combo were unmatched. I cannot say enough great things about the experience. For anyone who is apprehensive of sciencefiction-type movies, allow me to reassure you that this is very enjoyable. It is a story set in space, but it is not too "space-heavy." The focus lies in unlikely friendships and humanity at its best and worst. Plus, it has a wacky sidekick that is sure to make you giggle. I do hope this convinces at least one person to read or see this story.
In my reading and watching, I was reminded how fun it is to get caught up in silly things. Midnight releases, movie gatherings, and general excitement are things that may seem uncool or a distraction to our daily lives— ones we feel we should have outgrown. But as I was
engrossed in science and the stars, I was glad I allowed myself such silliness. In a world that often demands we be cynical or detached, choosing to lean into the "silly" excitement of a fictional universe is a form of self-care. Whether it’s wearing a themed t-shirt to a premiere or debating the physics of a warp drive over dinner, these are the moments that build community.
As the temperatures rise and the days stretch out, I’m making a vow to myself: I will not be "too cool" for summer. I will embrace the sticky popsicle hands, the loud animated soundtracks, and the nerdy deep dives into sci-fi. Because at the end of the day, the heat will eventually fade, but the memories of these shared, "silly" joys are what will keep us cool year-round.
Hello Leisure World, April reminds us that growth doesn’t always require big change--sometimes it simply begins right where we are. As flowers bloom in our desert and days grow warmer, it’s the perfect time to embrace the beauty of the present moment.
I see the beauty of Leisure World through the connections and care that neighbors have for each other. Many of our residents help support their loved ones and neighbors who may have cognitive impairments. Other neighbors may want to help support someone with dementia but are unsure of how to approach or what to say.
This month I am offering a presentation on best practices in communicating with people who have dementia. My hope is that this presentation will help you decode verbal and behavioral messages delivered by someone with dementia, identify strategies to help you connect and communicate at each stage in the disease and most of all--embrace the beauty of the present moment.
Please join me on Wednesday, April 22nd at 10am in the theater for a presentation on Effective and Compassionate Communication with People who have Dementia
As we continue to expand the ways our Communications department supports club activities, we have come across a few items we would like to address. With more platforms available—including the community newspaper, the Community Affairs Newsletter, digital TV displays, and physical bulletin boards—it is more important than ever to tailor your content to the right medium.
We are introducing the following guidelines for future submissions:
To ensure your information is readable and professional we request all newspaper content be in a Word Document and when appropriate, accompanied by a quality photo(s). Busy graphics often lose their impact in newsprint.
Gratefully, Jessica jmontes@lwca.com or (480) 207-1611
AFFINITY
Visual flyers are fantastic tools, but they work best where color and clarity shine. Flyers are ideal for the Club News Newsletter and our Community TV screens.
We also request original digital files (PDF or JPEG) rather than scanned paper copies. This prevents blurring and ensures your event looks inviting. If only paper copies are available there are approved spaces for those flyers.
These avenues are meant to allow clubs the best chance at reaching your neighbors.
If you have any questions or need assistance with a submission, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Communications Department (news@lwca.com).
I opened my paper thinking That I’d see Leprechaun Lenny, But to my complete surprise I saw our sweet Penny.
She said that he’d gone over To see the Emerald Isle And she didn’t think that he’d be back For quite a little while.
I said, “ Sure and begorrah, Penny. You are so easy to see, Just hanging out so casually On page 10, in section C.
“ I love anniversaries,” she said “ And music from Whiskey Rose.
Dancing to their music Should keep me on my toes.”
So whether Lenny is here or not Penny and I want to say We wish to all of Leisure World “Happy St. Patrick’s Day!”
Patty O’Brien Manor 769
by Sue De Carlo
Library
Hours
– 8:00 am to 10:00 pm 7 days each week
Sincere thanks for your generous support during the library’s annual fund drive in February and March. Please know that all donations are appreciated throughout the year.
Meet An Author New to the LW Library
A graduate of Columbia Law School Ms. Rieger has worked as a dean at Yale and associate provost for equal opportunity and affirmative action at Columbia. She has taught law at both schools and written extensively about the law for newspapers and magazines.
Review of New Author’s Book – RP Fictionis a complicated multi-generational family story about three strong, independent women. I found it to be interesting. The major characters are Lila and her granddaughter Grace. All the characters are well articulated and believable. The mystery involves the disappearance of 2-year-old Lila’s mother. The themes involve being raised by an abusive father or an attentive, loving father and the effects that difference may have on the lives of the children. Another theme involves the effect on children of a mother whose only interest is her career and ambition. Rieger uses other authors’ ideas and sentences without quotes or attribution until the unspecific acknowledgements in the back of the book.
stated the review opinions are my own and the ratings are from the readers at Goodreads.com.
Canyon of Deceit
– Therese is a deeply religious woman who works as a wilderness expert on search and rescue missions and teaches wilderness survival skills. Blane is a Texas Ranger who has taken Therese’s survival class and briefly
dated her until she found out he was not a Christian. Therese is hired to locate the 8-year-old daughter of a Russian college teacher. The kidnapped girl is being
a murder mystery, the effect a loved one’s death may have on those left behind and the meaning of real friendship. The characters are memorable. The setting is a small town on Cape Cod. Tate Donovan is in town designing a summer home for his best friend Oscar, his wife and 5 children. He is staying in a big old house on 10 acres with caretakers in a cottage next door. Sparks paces the story so that it unfolds gradually bringing the reader along scene by scene and character by character. I enjoyed reading this one but 64% rated 4 or 5 stars.
RP Non-Fiction - Unexpected CEO by Sherin Behzadi. Behzadi was raised in an upper middle-class family with private schools, music and art. When she was 17 Bahzadi left Iran and came to the US via Turkey because the newly powerful Islamic regime had arrested her twice and other young students were being tortured and killed. This book tells the fantastic story of her rise from night cashier at a gas station to the CEO of a billion-dollar corporation all the while being an attentive, hands-on mother who baked cupcakes for the class and attended her children’s sports events. It’s an interesting story about facing enormous challenges and showing extraordinary resilience. I found the book very interesting. 72% rated 4 or 5 stars.
By: A very observant kid
Posted by: Terri Anne via Facebook
So, I went to visit my grandma in Leisure World and I have some questions.
First of all, why are all these “old people” busier than my parents?
At 7:00 a.m. they’re already powerwalking in matching outfits. By 9:00, they’ve played pickleball, had coffee, solved three world problems, and planned a themed dinner party called “Taco Tuesday Fiesta Luau Bingo Night”.
Meanwhile, I’m still trying to find my socks. There are golf carts everywhere. Not regular, boring golf carts either. These things have lights, cup holders, custom rims, and better sound systems than my mom’s car. I saw one with disco lights. DISCO LIGHTS.
Also... why does everyone know everyone?
You can’t walk two steps without someone yelling, “HI SHARON!”, “SEE YOU AT HAPPY HOUR BOB!”, “DON’T FORGET WATER AEROBICS, LINDA!”
It’s like summer camp... but with better snacks. And the happy hours?
Let’s just say these grandparents are HAPPY. There’s music, karaoke, dancing... and somehow everyone knows the words to every song ever written between 1965-1995.
The best part?
Nobody cares what they look like. They wear sparkles at noon. Pajamas at brunch. Bedazzled visors to the mailbox. And they all act they’ve unlocked some secret level of life where you just do whatever makes you smile.
Honestly... I think Leisure World is just a grownup playground. With better food, louder music, and cooler golf carts.
When I grow up, I don’t want to “retire”. I want to LEVEL UP! Because if this is what being 55+ looks like... sign me up.
• We are a group of reliable individuals who love pets and want to help our Leisure World neighbors when they travel.
• We each set our own schedules and rates, but we do work together to help each other out when we can.
• We provide personal, fun and caring supervision for your pet(s) while you’re away.
• We look forward to meeting you!
• Name and Contact Info
Cari Leu 715-222-2761 carileu69@gmail.com Manor 1545 Pet sitting in your home / Dog walker
Cathi Fisk 313-460-1503 gramflyer@gmail.com Manor 1668
Kathy Hilger 763-670-0804 hilgerk@yahoo.com Manor 1141
Kathy Treible 480-271-8415 winemeup6@gmail.com Manor 1821
Kim Reisner 307-421-1810 k.reisner55@gmail.com Manor 455
Marie Belmontez 562-508-2397 peanutsmom312@gmail.com Manor 196
Mary Gardner 480-510-3950 memammg@aol.com Manor 1271
Nicole (Nikki) Wurster 480-848-8134 nicwurster70@gmail.com Manor 1507
Patti Gordon 970-294-5992 patiofc59@outlook.com Manor 225
Cats in your home
Available months of October through April
Pet sitting in my home or yours / Not a dog walker
• Small-medium dogs, as long as they are OK with my dogs.
• Will do overnights, with exception
Pet sitting in my home or yours / Dog walker
• Dogs in MY home, any size, any age
• Cats in YOUR home
Pet sitting in my home / Dog walker
• Meet and greet first
• Drop in visits done
Dog sitting in my home or yours / Dog walker
• Meet and greet first
Pet sitting in your home – Long & short stays
• Small & large; young & older dogs; also cats
• No reptiles (sorry)
Dog sitting in my home or yours
• Small dogs ONLY in my home
• Overnight stays in your home
Pet sitting in my home or yours / Dog walker
• Short overnight stays for dogs in YOUR home
• Cats in my home or yours
• Drop in visits done
Pet sitting in your home / Dog walker
Healthcare isn’t the same as one ages. Seniors have different health needs, so it makes sense to choose primary care centered on seniors. Here are some things to consider:
1. Care access. Does the doctor offer same-day appointments? If there is a concern after hours, is the care team available 24/7 over the phone?
2. More one-on-one time with the doctor. It’s important for a doctor to really get to know their patient. That takes time—time for patients to ask questions and the time for the doctor to answer them thoroughly.
3. Senior-focused. Make sure the doctor and care team see just seniors. They’ll have more upto-date information on what it takes for seniors to feel their best.
4. Proactive approach to care. The doctor should see patients routinely to monitor their health and detect and treat any issue early.
5. Dedicated care team. Ideally, a patient's care team should include a board-certified doctor, a behavioral health specialist, a care coach and, in some cases, a clinical pharmacist. They should work together, so they see a broader view of their patient’s physical, mental and social well-being.
6. Accepts Medicare. Have the provider confirm if they accept Medicare plans. If someone has paid into Medicare their entire working life, they should reap the benefits of low-cost healthcare coverage and not pay more than they need to.
When it comes to aging well, it’s important to choose primary care that centers on seniors’ needs. This, along with a proactive approach to healthcare, helps patients thrive and continue enjoying the things they love.
| Actual patient
help keep you at your healthiest.
take
proactive approach
50% more one-on-one time with your doctor* 24/7 phone access to the care team
March is the end of our major fund-raising events for the 2025-2026 year. In February, the Valentines Dinner Dance was a huge success with more than $9500 raised. Pat Connelly our “Hostess with the Mostess” again organized the event. More than 200 attended and enjoyed the 50-50 raffle, live and silent auction and enjoyed dancing with DJ’s Jim and Dave-“The Dynamic Duo”. Premier Catering once again provided an outstanding meal. Desert Financial provided two Trust and Will packages for the live auction and these sold for $1450 and $1400 respectively. Carolyn Lowe donated two English High Teas and Chef LaMott donated a gourmet dinner for six for the live auction. Thank you, Carolyn and Chef LaMott! Silent auction baskets were provide by Foundation Board members.
The Charity Golf Tournament , our last event, was held on March 19 with more than 100 golfers. While the event has not been held as of this writing a record of more than $17,000 has been pledged by sponsors. The final list of sponsors will be in the April Foundation Flashes along with reports of first and second place winners in the Women’s, Men’s and mixed foursomes.
These events and donations from our annual giving drive, donations form individuals and Leisure World Clubs plus earnings from our investments support our annual Charitable Giving. At the March 18 Premier Speakers series, The Leisure World Foundation will donate a total of $58,500 to the following charities : Bag and Boobs Babes, Child Crisis Arizona, Gigi’s Cottage, House of Refuge, Matthew 25 Prison Ministry, Save the Family, Southwest Autism Research and Resource Center, and D-Squared Homes for the Homeless. These are all Mesa or East Valley based charities that were vetted and recommended by our grants committee,
Melinda Dart and Donna Bailey, to the Leisure World Foundation Board. Since 2001, with your support, the Leisure World Foundation has given $912, 564 to local charities.
In the near future, The Foundation will begin a major fund-raising drive to fund approximately $2 million of renovations recently recommended by the Long-Range Planning Committee and approved by the Leisure World Community Association Board. It is anticipated this fund raising will take place over the next year. Donations will be made through our non-tax-deductible, Leisure World Improvement Fund. Watch for more information on this in future Foundation Flashes. This is the first major fund-raising drive for Leisure World facilities since the drive that funded the Gym, Rec 2 complex, the Tennis complex and the Craft Building approximately 25 years ago. This effort is being made to keep Leisure World a great place to live while keeping HOA fees as low as possible. Keeping up our facilities helps everyone’s property values!
Thank you for attending the 2025-26 the various speakers who presented during the season. Bill Harrison kicked off the season with “Strange Creatures in Arizona”, Roger Naylor spoke about Route 66, then April Taylor spoke about her Chinese background and her travel guide ideas, and the season ended with Lynn Manaigre talking about bees and beekeeping.
The latter two speakers are Leisure World residents and offered a lot of interesting information. So, inform LWFoundationaz@gmail.com , if there’s someone out there to present information to an eager audience.
Next season will begin on Wednesday, as always, October 21 with Kate Rose and the Wild West Fiddle Project. This speaker is offered in cooperation with the AZ Humanities Commission. More details will come in the September and October issues of the newspaper.
As always, this program is offered free to residents, courtesy of LW Foundation, the Rec Department and Desert Financial: Wills and Trust Division.
*Foundation has requested that there is a box around the info or something to make it stand out a bit- thank you!
Mary Ellen doValle
April, a time of Spring, a time of renewal.
I would like to focus this month on you. You, as an individual, with daily trials and blessings. There are times you may feel down and think there is no way out. You may also look at yourself and feel like you wish you could be more attractive, thinner, not so shy, or just ugh!
You are who you are. Everyone has been designed to be a unique individual. You are a special soul. No one is like you. So why want to look or be like another? You come wrapped up with special qualities. Use those qualities that you have been gifted with. Don’t worry about anyone else and what they can do. Think of what you can do and do it to the best of your ability.
How boring life would be if we were all the same !
It’s our individual differences that make this world so vibrant and gifted with so many blessings. Use your gifts to blend in with others. Reach out to those who feel lost. Help them to appreciate who they are. Share a friendship; give a helping hand. Lend an ear and open arms for hugs. Most importantly, be yourself. To quote Maya Angelou, “My wish for you is that you continue. Continue to be who and how you are, to astonish a mean world with your acts of kindness.
LOST
I know myself but I don’t know you. I lost myself and then you came through.
To call me forth, and try to aid. I couldn’t trust, and was so afraid.
You tried, and tried again, while I stood my ground in the gently falling rain.
And I ran, but not to you, and I know it made you blue.
Darren Lee Rettie
But know my fate, I would only say, was helped by you on that lonesome day.
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SPEND LESS. SAVE MORE. Did you know you could waste as much as 25% of your homes energy?
Mesa, Arizona Courage Under Cancer, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping cancer patients overcome financial barriers to treatment, has announced its upcoming Mesa Next Top Model Fundraising Campaign, scheduled for November 7, 2026, at Leisure World in Mesa, Arizona.
The community-centered event will feature local participants walking the runway to raise awareness and funds for individuals battling cancer who are experiencing financial hardship. The evening will celebrate courage, resilience, and community support while helping raise critical resources for patients struggling to afford essential aspects of treatment.
Funds raised through the Mesa Next Top Model campaign will directly support Courage Under Cancer’s programs that provide financial assistance for transportation to treatments, temporary housing, medication costs, and other expenses that can prevent patients from receiving timely care.
Addressing Financial Barriers to Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment can place an overwhelming financial burden on patients and families. According to national patient advocacy research:
• Nearly half of cancer patients report significant financial stress during treatment.
• Approximately 1 in 4 patients delay or skip recommended care due to cost concerns.
• Financial hardship—often referred to as “financial toxicity”—can lead some patients to pause or discontinue treatment prematurely.
Courage Under Cancer works to reduce these barriers by providing direct support so patients can focus on healing rather than financial survival.
Mission of Courage Under Cancer
The mission of Courage Under Cancer is simple but powerful: to ensure that no cancer patient has to choose between life-saving treatment and financial stability.
By offering practical financial assistance and connecting patients with supportive resources, the organization helps families navigate the economic challenges that often accompany a cancer diagnosis.
More information about Courage Under Cancer and its programs can be found at www.courageundercancer.org
A 100% Volunteer Organization
Courage Under Cancer is proud to operate with a 100% volunteer board of directors and leadership team. The organization pays no wages or salaries, allowing a greater percentage of donated funds to go directly toward helping cancer patients in need.
This volunteer-driven structure reflects the organization’s commitment to maximizing the impact of every donation and ensuring that community support translates into meaningful assistance for patients and families facing financial hardship during treatment.
Courage Under Cancer was founded by Dee Baginski, a passionate advocate dedicated to supporting individuals and families facing the financial realities of cancer treatment.
Inspired by firsthand experiences witnessing how cancer impacts not only health but also financial stability and family well-being, Baginski created Courage Under Cancer to provide meaningful support to patients who
where patients receive not only emotional encouragement but also tangible financial assistance during one of life’s most difficult journeys.
The Mesa Next Top Model fundraiser will transform the runway into a platform for community engagement, inspiration, and advocacy. Participants will model in support of the cause while sharing stories of courage and resilience connected to the cancer journey.
Community members, local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers are encouraged to attend and support the event. Proceeds will help Courage Under Cancer continue expanding its efforts to support patients facing the financial burden of cancer treatment.
Individuals interested in attending, sponsoring, participating, or donating can learn more by visiting: www.courageundercancer.org
Courage Under Cancer is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to helping cancer patients overcome financial barriers that can interfere with treatment. Through fundraising events, community partnerships, and direct assistance programs, the organization works to ensure patients have access to the care they need while easing the financial strain that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis.
Operated by a fully volunteer board with no paid salaries, Courage Under Cancer is able to direct the majority of funds raised toward assisting patients and
Helping Buyers and Sellers Find the Perfect Place to Call Home Since 2004.
Lisa Taylor, Associate Broker with RE/MAX Classic, has proudly served buyers and sellers across the Valley since 2004. With over two decades of real estate experience, she has helped clients successfully buy and sell lakefront homes, 55+ community properties, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes throughout Arizona. Lisa is known for her dedication, market knowledge, and commitment to making each transaction smooth and successful. When she’s not working with clients, she enjoys traveling, watching sports, and spending special time with her family and grandchildren.
From Iceland to Arizona, Anna Ragnarsdottir has brought her strong work ethic—and a little Viking determination—to the real estate world with Remax Classic.
Born and raised in Iceland, Anna moved to the United States in 1997 and has proudly called Arizona home since then. For the past 14 years, she has helped buyers and sellers navigate the real estate market with confidence, honesty, and a touch of humor.
Anna understands that a home is more than just a property, it’s where memories are made, families gather, and new chapters begin. Whether helping someone find their perfect home or assisting a homeowner in preparing their property for a successful sale, Anna takes pride in guiding her clients every step of the way.
Known for her patience, honesty, and strong negotiation skills, Anna works hard to ensure every client feels supported throughout the process.
When you work with Anna, you’re not just hiring a Realtor, you’re gaining a friend and a trusted guide for one of life’s most important decisions.
It’s April and time to bid a fond farewell to the tennis season and all of our Snowbirds who are flying back to their other homes. Some have already left, some are leaving now, and others will be heading out soon. To all of you, we wish safe travels and a wonderful summer.
For those staying here in Arizona, be careful playing in the hot sun and try to stay cool out there on the courts. Our in-house tennis championship was a great success this year. Fun was had by all, and we saw some wonderful and very competitive matches. The championship title goes to the Red Team, led by Captain Rob Haynes, and players Joan Bishoff, Cathy Morgan, Randa Hightower, Dan Kaat, Butch Niven, Sarah Drew, Sandra Markley, Ron Aman, Arlene McClements, Patti Engel, Bub
Laudenbach, Dennis Morgan, and Robert Jones.
Congratulations to you all!
Our tennis club has also done an amazing job recycling used tennis balls this season. I’m thinking about doing a full article next season for the entire LW community about our efforts. For those of you who may not know about the program, you can learn more at https://www. recycleballs.org/.
We recently received an award from the company because our club has sent in 10,200 tennis balls to be
Hey, did you know there is growing discussion about a “tennis resurgence” despite the explosive rise of pickleball? The reality is a bit more nuanced. While pickleball has grown faster, tennis participation has also been increasing significantly in recent years. Here are a few interesting facts and trends.
Tennis participation is actually rising
Recent participation data shows that tennis is not declining overall—it has been growing steadily.
• In the U.S., 27.3 million people played tennis in 2025, a record high.
• Tennis participation has grown about 54% since 2019, adding nearly 10 million players.
It Will Be A Success!
If You Need A Ride From The Lot Or Street Call 952.594.2853 To Get A Cart Ride To The Front Door
Thank you to all who are coming to enjoy our Easter dinner. The donations that come in are very appreciated. I thank each one of you for whatever donation you were able to give. The beauty of a donation is that it’s a donation and it doesn’t matter how much you give, I’m just happy that I’m able to cover all my costs. So thank you for making this possible. I still need to find a retired chef to help me with Thanksgiving. And as I get older, I need to find younger blood to take this over at some point. I’m not willing to give it up for a while, but I want to start looking to train someone to make sure it goes on forever! So- You need to think about who that person could be so that this holiday tradition dinner idea can go on forever!
I will be having pictures in next month’s paper. And hopefully a link to my Shutterfly book. If you have some pictures, you want me to put in my book, please e-mail them to me at ChefLaMott@gmail.com and I will do my best to put them all in there.
My favorite bible versesPractice hospitality without grumbling- 1 peter 4:9 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others. As faithful stewards of God’s grace in it’s various forms. 1 Peter 4:10
Now have an amazing summer and start planning for Thanksgiving next year! Thanksgiving Will be November 26th.
Sincerely,
Doris Hoel, Chef LaMott
We want to thank the chorus for their wonderful talents of singing in the two concerts, March 14th and 15th. I also want to thank these wonderful members of the Chef LaMott Cooking Club who are taking time out of their day to make about 500 cookies to give away at the end of their concerts! It was decided that the chorus is such a wonderful community gift that we want to give back to them and their guests who come to their concerts. So we made butter sugar cut out cookies glazed with an almond icing marbleized in pastel colors to celebrate them. Enjoy the photos showing our works.
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By John Knievel
It was the afternoon of my third day in a Trauma One Hospital ward. I was becoming more cognitive, but still had trouble coping why I was there.
My wife told me that I was hit by a vehicle while on my 78-Mile Birthday Bicycle Ride. (I had the custom of riding my age in miles on my birthday.) She said I was in pretty serious condition. The tissues around my brain had been bleeding, my left lung was bruised and partially deflated, and I had fifteen broken bones.
I asked about the incision on my left shoulder. She said the doctor had repaired my collar bone that morning. It needed a plate and seven screws because of multiple fractures.
In addition to my collar bone, there was a compression fracture of the vertebra on the top of the rib cage; ten broken ribs on my left side, some broken in multiple places, and one broken rib on my right side; a Flail Chest, that occurred when a segment of the rib cage was broken due to a blunt trauma, causing multiple adjacent ribs to become detached from the rest of the chest wall; and multiple fractures in my left hip.
wound in my head, caused by my helmet breaking when I hit the road, require twelve staples. My helmet was totally destroyed, but it saved my life. I am amazed how many people I see riding without helmets.
After leaving the hospital my wife drove to the police station in the town near where I had the accident, to pick up my bicycle. I asked the officer, who was at the scene, if I could have the names of the persons who attended to me. He said that since a vehicle was technically not involved in the accident he did not need to file an accident report, so did not have their names. He did say that I could not have had better attendees because one of the person’s was an ER Technician and the other was a Nurse.
Over the years, my riding included participating in twenty-five MS-150’s (150-mile Multiple Sclerosis Charity Rides) in Minnesota, Colorado, Virginia and Arizona.
The injuries kept me in the Hospital for a month, two weeks of which were in the Intensive Care Unit. While in the hospital I thought a lot about my experiences over the 85,000 miles I had ridden, since starting at age 55.
The MS-150’s in Colorado were the most challenging. One of those rides traveled from Denver to the Royal Gorge Bridge, which is 956 feet above the Arkansas River, outside of Canon City, CO. A few miles before the final climb up the Royal Gorge, an Aid Station person told me I was a couple of miles from “Devil’s Ridge”. When asked about “Devil’s Ridge”, she said you’ll know when you get there, and indeed I did. After making a sharp right turn, a climb that looked to be straight up, got me to immediately shift to my lowest gear. I was determined to never push my bike up a hill, no matter how steep it was. The view from the bridge made that climb worth it.
One, somewhat humorous experience, occurred while riding next to an area Wildlife Preserve, when something crashed into my bike helmet. While looking around, thinking somebody had thrown something at me, my helmet got hit again. As I looked behind me, a huge crow was making another dive, which I fortunately waved off. I would not have been surprised to see an Alfred Hitchcock crew filming a sequel to the 1962 movie “The Birds”. But, alas, it was just the crow and me.
On another occasion, while riding down a road, with a wide shoulder and a very wide, grassy ditch, I was surprised by a motorist passing me on my right, in the ditch. I suppose the driver wanted to be funny and perhaps scare me. Another motorist coming over the hill behind us saw that driver pull out of the ditch and back onto the road. Apparently thinking I was responsible for him being there, he honked his horn and gave me the “middle finger” salute as he went by.
My bicycle experiences have been enjoyable, except for this accident and another one during an earlier period of my riding. While traveling down a street at a very high speed, thanks to a significant tail wind, two cars passed me with their right turn signals blinking. Since I was approaching an intersection with only a street going to the right, my thought was to swing behind them to the left. However, there were two more cars coming, neither of which had their turn signals on. The instant I decided to stay to the right I hit a pot hole.
I regained consciousness as I was being put into an ambulance. Hospital X-Rays showed no broken bones, but the
My time in the hospital Intensive Care Ward finally came to a close. Getting released was welcomed, but I was still required to spend another two weeks in the hospital, going through rehab. After leaving the hospital, I was confined to a wheelchair for three additional months.
Since there were no witnesses to the accident, and the person who struck me did not stop, the local Law Enforcement was not able to obtained any information. Hence its official report was that the accident was self induced and no other vehicle was involved. Based on that report, my auto insurance company denied coverage under the Underinsured / Noninsured part of my policy. Consequently, I challenged the Law Enforcement’s report. Based on the information from the hospital and doctors, I wrote a 12-page document about my injuries, gave it to the Law Enforcement and emailed a copy to the Insurance Company. After examining the document, the Insurance Company agreed to treat my accident as a “Hit And Run”
As I continued my recovery doing numerous therapies, not knowing if I would be able to ride again, I thought about my seven Triple By-Pass rides in the Colorado Rockies. The Triple By-Pass is a one-day,120-mile ride, over three mountain passes: Juniper Pass (11,140), Loveland Pass (11,990) and Vail Pass (10,560). Collectively the total ride includes 11,000+ feet of climbing. The ride started in Evergreen on the east side of the Continental Divide and finished in Avon, on the west side.
My first Triple ByPass ride was in 2008, at age 64, and the seventh one was in 2014, at age 70.
The mountain scenery is beautiful when you climb the passes, but the descending speed forces you to watch the road. On one of those rides, my bike computer clock me at 52 mph. The last three and a half miles of switchbacks up Loveland Pass on U.S. Hwy 6 are the toughest. The elevation gain on that
stretch is a little over 1,000 feet, and, at one point, reaches a grade of 18.9%. As you got toward the top, it was enjoyable looking down at the bikers still climbing and being pleased that you made it. Another portion of the ride, up Vail Pass, is so steep that riding in a standing position is the only option. (Remember, you never push your bike up a hill.)
After getting out of the hospital, therapies were improving my physical condition, but I continued to have pain in my left hip.
An MRI showed that my hip had some significant fractures that were not healing. It also showed that the left hip socket was displaced by 1.6 cm (63% of an inch), all of which was creating the additional pain. After the MRI, I started working with an Orthopedic Surgeon at Mayo Clinic.
The surgeon said there were a couple of pieces of my hip that were no longer attached and would have to be removed. He also noted that he would have to do a bone graft on one of the fractures because of its spacing. When asked where he was going to get the bone, he said he would take it from my left femoral ball, which also was fractured. Since that fracture would not heal smoothly, he would cut it off, use that for the grafting, and replace it with an artificial one. In addition, since my left hip socket was displaced, he would have to surgically adjust the femoral ball replacement so that my left leg would not be shorter than the right leg.
The Surgeon, and his team, did a marvelous job. He said it was challenging and would take more than a year
for the area to heal. He said I should stay off my bike and the golf course. The best thing I could do would be to walk and do a lot of it. After healing from the surgery, walking became an increased priority to strengthen the muscles in the hip area. By the end of a year after the surgery, I was walking four to five miles at a time and had traversed one thousand three hundred miles.
This accident certainly disrupted my life, as well as my wife’s, but happy days did occur. The day I received the email from the auto insurance company treating my accident as a “Hit and Run” was one of them. Another one occurred seven months after the accident when I was able to take a shower without sitting on a stool. Also, my thoughts of having to give up bike riding were banished when I received a new helmet as a Christmas present.
Unfortunately, the person who hit me was never identified, but there are many reasons to be thankful. Certainly, the support of my wife and family is paramount, plus the prayers of my friends. I was blessed by the skills of my surgeons. Likewise, my God given ability to physically recover cannot be overstated. I am thankful for going from a month in the hospital, three months in a wheelchair, having major hip surgery, and being able to ride again, which I did a little over two years after the accident.
My challenge is to do another “Birthday Ride”. Not riding a bike for over two years has had a definite impact. My last Birthday Ride in 2021 of 77 miles took me 4 hours, 17 minutes and 18 seconds, for an average speed of 17.96 mph. My goal is to gain back my form so, hopefully, I can do my 82-Mile Birthday Ride.
Instructions and photos provided by: The Suburban Soapbox.
Here’s how you dye easter eggs with whipped cream: Soak your hard-boiled eggs in vinegar for 5-10 minutes. The vinegar is essential in helping the colors adhere to the shell. You can skip this step, but your colors will be more muted.
1. Dry your hard-boiled eggs and set aside.
2. Spread the whipped cream, whipped topping or Cool Whip evenly in the wells of a muffin tin.
3. Using gel food color, drop dots of your favorite colors on top of the whipped cream.
4. Swirl the colors slightly with a knife.
5. Roll the eggs around in the whipped cream and let stand for 5-10 minutes.
6. Wipe dry with a paper towel. Do Not Rinse under water as the dye needs more time to set.
Enjoy!
The Queen Creek Library is located at 21802 S Ellsworth Rd. Queen Creek, AZ 85142 and is open to the public Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Registration may be required. Check online or call for details.
Artist of the Month
Thursday, April 2
6:00-7:15 pm
Join us each month as we learn about a different artist! After learning about that artist and their style, we will create our own unique replica. No art experience required! This month we’ll be learning about Claude Monet.
Book ‘Em: A Mystery Book Club
Wednesday, April 8
12:30-1:30 pm
Do you love a good whodunit? Do you love the twists and turns of a good mystery? Join us to discuss a monthly mystery read! For this discussion we will discuss, “Beware the Woman” by Megan Abbott.
Adult Cinema Club
Monday, April 13
6:00-7:00 pm
Join us for thoughtful discussion focusing on a new film title each month, featuring a diverse medley of
cinematic genres, styles, and storytelling approaches that invite exploration and discovery. Find your new favorite! Check online for this month’s movie.
Puzzle Palooza
Thursday, April 16
6:00-7:30 pm
Do you love puzzles? Join us for some puzzle making and swapping! You can bring a puzzle to swap with someone else, or just come in to piece together provided puzzles. This event is for all ages and anyone looking to puzzle is welcome! No registration is required and participants are welcome to come any time.
Storytime Breakout
Friday, April 17
10:30-11:15 am
Come watch a dynamic storytime, participate with your child, and leave feeling confident you can have your own storytime with your child while reading any book. This month we will be showing grown-ups how to get kids to make inferences while reading.
Creations with Canva: Thank you cards
Wednesday, April 22
6:30-7:30 pm
Make your own personalized templates for every event or project imaginable! Get guided instruction on how to use Canva and leave with a digital product saved to reuse whenever you like. This month we
will be making a thank you card template. Bring a device you prefer to work on, or borrow a library laptop. Your final product will be saved in your Canva account.
Magic the Gathering
Monday, April 27
6:00-7:00 pm
Join us at the library as we cast some spells and battle different creatures by playing Magic The Gathering. No experience necessary to join and it is a great way to learn the game or improve your skills. We have limited supplies so feel free to bring your own cards.
Read it and Weep: A Romance Book Club
Tuesday, April 28
6:30-7:30 pm
Are you ready to fall in love? Join this romance book club where we discuss a new romance read each month! This month’s book is “The Bride Test” by Helen Hoang!
Book Page Planter
Thursday, April 30
5:30-7:00 pm
Join us as we upcycle book pages and create your own planter! We will be using chalk paint, antique wax, and book pages to transform a terra cotta pot. All supplies will be provided and no experience needed.
July 4th marks the annual holiday that celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. So how much do you know about this famous document?
1. Is Independence Day really July 2?
Officially, the Continental Congress declared its freedom from Britain on July 2, 1776, when it approved a resolution and delegates from New York were permitted to make it a unanimous vote. John Adams thought July 2 would be marked as a national holiday for generations to come.
2. July 4 is when the Declaration was adopted
After voting on independence, the Continental Congress needed to finalize a document explaining the move to the public. It had been proposed in draft form by the Committee of Five (John Adams, Roger Sherman, Robert R. Livingston, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson) and it took two days for the Congress to agree on the edits.
3. Six people signed the Declaration and also the Constitution Franklin was among a handful of people who signed both historical documents. The others were George Read, Roger Sherman, Robert Morris, George Clymer and James Wilson.
4. But they didn’t sign the Declaration on July 4th!
Once the Congress approved the actual Declaration of Independence document on July 4, it ordered that it be sent to a printer named John Dunlap. About 200 copies of the Dunlap Broadside were printed, with John Hancock’s name printed at the bottom. Today, 26 copies remain.
5. So what if I stumble upon a lost version of the Dunlap Broadside at a flea market?
That’s what happened in 1989 in Adamstown, Pa. It
was tucked behind an old picture in a frame and it cost the buyer $4. That version of the Declaration was eventually acquired by TV producer Norman Lear for $8.1 million.
6. OK – when was the Declaration actually signed?
Most of the members of the Continental Congress signed a version of the Declaration in early August 1776 in Philadelphia. The names of the signers were released publicly in early 1777. So that famous painting showing the signing of the Declaration on July 4, 1776, is a bit of an exaggeration.
7. The Declaration’s association with Independence Day came from a lapse of memory
Historian Pauline Maier said in her 1997 book about the Declaration that no member of Congress recalled in early July 1777 that it was almost a year since they declared their freedom from the British. They finally remembered on July 3rd, and July 4th became the day that seemed to make sense for celebrating independence.
8. The Declaration suffered from a lack of early respect
Maier also said that the Declaration (and celebrating its signing) was stuck in a feud between the Federalists (of John Adams) and the Republicans (of Thomas Jefferson). The Declaration and its anniversary day weren’t widely celebrated until the Federalists faded away from the political scene after 1812.
9. The Declaration and Constitution were hidden away during World War II
Both documents were packed up about two weeks after Pearl Harbor. They were given a military escort to Fort Knox in Kentucky, where they remained until late 1944.
10. There really is a message written on the back of the Declaration of Independence
In the movie National Treasure, a secret message written on the back of the Declaration is a key plot device. In reality, there is a visible message on the back that reads, “Original Declaration of Independence dated 4th July 1776.” It’s not as dramatic as the movie and experts believe it was a label added at some point when the Declaration was in storage.
Recent headlines have been dominated by economic policy and market fluctuations, sending shockwaves through the stock market. For investors, each new update seems to bring another round of volatility. While tariffs are the latest trigger for market volatility, the reality is that markets are always responding to something –from geopolitical events to inflation data to interest rate shifts – and the feeling these changes evoke are timeless: uncertainty.
Whether you’re decades from retirement, approaching it in the near term, or already drawing down your portfolio, now is a good time to revisit your plan – and remind yourself what you can control when the markets feel unpredictable.
For those decades from retirement:
Revisit your views on risk. There’s nothing like a significant market downturn to remind you that investing involves risk. Market swings provide an opportunity to reassess the level of risk in your portfolio and determine whether you still think the amount is appropriate for your circumstances.
Remember that time is on your side. In theory, the longer you have to let your money work for you, the less concerned you should be about short-term market moves. Fluctuations in stocks are nothing new. And historically, markets have recovered from losses incurred during corrections or bear markets. By the time you’re ready to retire, it’s likely that a market downturn in hindsight will only look like a bump in the road.
Put volatility to work for you. Market volatility can work to your benefit by tapping into the power of a strategy called dollar-cost averaging. Here’s an example of how it works: Say you invest a fixed amount of money at regular intervals, regardless of market conditions. When the market dips, you can purchase more shares. And when the market rises, you can purchase fewer. The goal is to end up with more shares, often purchased at an overall
lower cost per share than if you had invested all the money at once. Then the shares have the potential to increase in value over time. (Dollar-cost averaging does not assure a profit or protect against a loss in declining markets.) This strategy is one example of how volatility may work in your favor if your investments move up or down in the short-term, while eventually recovering lost ground in the long-term. If you make regular contributions to a workplace retirement plan, IRA or other investments, you are likely already using this strategy. If not, consider this example as motivation to explore whether you can make consistent investing a goal for this year.
For those nearing retirement:
Ensure your investments are diversified. Various parts of the market react to headlines and economic drivers differently. For those nearing retirement, the recent spike in volatility is a reminder of how having a broadly diversified portfolio can help reduce your investment risk.
How do you know if you’re properly diversified? The simplest answer is to check to see that your portfolio contains a mix of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, short-term cash investments, savings and other investing vehicles that consider your goals and comfort-level with risk. Going a step further, ensure you understand how each asset or investment in your portfolio is helping you reach your financial goals. If you’re unsure or want a second opinion, consider consulting a financial advisor for guidance.
Balance your need for protection with growth. Protecting your portfolio from current or future market downturns becomes more important as you approach the day when you start living off your savings. Consider investing the money you plan to use for income in the first few years of retirement more conservatively in liquid vehicles that are easy to access. This can help you feel that you are prepared to handle upcoming expenses should the markets swing.
It’s also important to remember that your retirement could last 20, 30 or even 40 years. Balance your need for protection with continuing to grow your nest egg. Assets you won’t need for some time could be more aggressively positioned. At a minimum, ensure your assets can keep on pace with rising inflation.
For those in retirement:
Review your withdrawal strategy. Depending on how much money you have invested in stocks, your portfolio may lose value when the market dips. If market swings and the potential for a greater downturn make you nervous, revisit the amount of money you withdraw monthly to meet your expenses. As you review, the goal is to be assured that the amount you withdraw to meet the next year or two of expenses does not put your long-term financial security in jeopardy. If your base of assets is reduced, you may have to trim your withdrawal amount to assure you have a sustainable long-term income strategy.
Don’t take unnecessary chances in your stock exposure. For the long-term investor – which includes you as a retiree – volatility in equities can work in your favor. It’s possible that you will spend one to three decades in retirement, giving you time to withstand some market moves. At the same time, it’s important to preserve your base of savings and not be overexposed to stock risk. Review your exposure in the context of your full financial plan to evaluate if you are taking the right amount of risk.
For additional help talk to a financial advisor who is willing to discuss your personal circumstances and provide guidance on how to manage your money for today’s market.
Steven M. Rabin, CFP, CRPC, APMA, CDFA, ChFC, is Managing Director of Academy Advisors Wealth Management.
By: Rilus M. Dana
Getting the news that you’ve been named as a “Successor Trustee” is an incredible honor, but it usually comes with an immediate wave of panic. What exactly did I just agree to? If you’ve recently had to step into the shoes of a trustee, or if you are the one setting up a trust and wondering what your kids will actually have to deal with, take a deep breath. You don’t need a financial background or a law degree to do this right. You just need a clear roadmap. Here is what it actually takes to manage a trust, protect the assets, and keep the family peace.
Think of a trust as a protective vault with a detailed instruction manual attached. The person who built the trust (the “trustor”) placed their assets (their house, bank accounts, and investments) inside the vault and wrote the rules for how those items should be handled.
While they are alive and well, they usually act as their own trustee. But when they pass away or can no longer manage their own affairs, they hand the keys to the Successor Trustee. A Successor Trustee’s job isn’t to reinvent the wheel; their legal duty is simply to manage the assets in good faith and follow the instruction manual exactly as it was written.
Not all trustees look the same. Depending on the situation, the person or group holding the keys can vary:
• The Family Member (Successor Trustee): This is the most common scenario. You are stepping in voluntarily to manage a loved one’s estate.
• The Professionals (Corporate or Investment Trustees): Sometimes, a trust is so complex that a family hires a bank, a financial firm, or a dedicated professional to manage it for a fee.
• The Specialists (Charitable or Bankruptcy Trustees): These are specialized roles for managing charitable donations or handling court-mandated bankruptcy assets.
A quick note on compensation: If you are a family member acting as a successor trustee, you are generally
entitled to “reasonable compensation” for your time and effort. Determining what is “fair” without upsetting the rest of the family can be tricky, which is why leaning on an experienced trust administration attorney is usually a smart move.
1. The Scavenger Hunt (Gathering Assets): You will need to locate all the bank accounts, deeds, and investments owned by the trust and officially take the reins.
2. Paying the Tab (Debts & Taxes): Before anyone inherits a dime, you are responsible for paying off the deceased’s final bills, settling valid debts, and filing tax returns.
3. Passing the Baton (Distributions): Once the dust settles and the bills are paid, you get to distribute the remaining assets to the beneficiaries exactly as the trust instructs. However, sometimes, your job isn’t a quick sprint to hand out inheritances. If the trust dictates that money should be held for a long time—for instance, if the beneficiaries are young children—you are in for a marathon.
4. Crossing the Finish Line (Closing the Trust): When the trust has completely fulfilled its purpose, you have to officially close the doors. This means preparing a final accounting spreadsheet so everyone knows where every penny went and filing the final tax returns. Doing this properly completes the job
correctly and protects you from future liability.
Keeping the Peace: Communication is Key
The fastest way to start a family feud is by going silent. Beneficiaries have a legal right to know what is going on. As a trustee, transparency is your best friend. Send regular updates, share the necessary financial reports, and hold family meetings if big decisions need to be made. Over-communicating helps prevent misunderstandings, manages expectations, and keeps everyone on the same page.
You Don’t Have to Figure It Out Alone
Trust administration sounds straightforward on paper, but it can quickly become overwhelming in practice. Every family dynamic is different, and the legal hurdles can be confusing.
At Rilus Law, trust administration is our primary focus. We guide trustees and families through every step of the process, ensuring all the boxes are checked, communication is clear, and the family finds peace of mind. Whether you are preparing to serve as a successor trustee or are already in the thick of it, professional guidance changes everything.
- Rilus M. Dana, J.D., is the Managing Partner at Rilus Law, formerly Dana and Associates.
By Ken Weinstock, CPA, Leisure World resident.
Many people have more than one home. For some, Leisure World is their principal residence and they have a vacation home elsewhere. Others have a principal residence in another state and come to Leisure World to get away for the winter.
If your main home is in another state and you’re considering making Leisure World your principal residence, you may be thinking about what to do with your other home.
Taxes should always be considered when changing where you live. Good planning can prevent unpleasant surprises.
There are several ways to deal with a home that you no longer intend to use as your principal residence. You can sell it, you can rent it, you can abandon it, you can gift it, or you can bequeath it. You may also want to convert your primary residence to a second or third home.
If you decide you want to sell your home, there is a special section of the Internal Revenue Code that allows for the exclusion of up to $250,000 gain ($500,000 for married taxpayers) on the sale of your main home. It does not apply to second or third residences or rental property.
According to the IRS there are five eligibility tests that must be met to be able to exclude gain on the sale of your main home.
1. Your home sale isn’t eligible for the exclusion if you acquired your home through a like-kind exchange during the past five years or if you are subject to
expatriate tax.
2. If you owned the home for at least two years of the previous five years prior to the sale you meet the ownership requirement. For a married couple filing a joint tax return only one spouse needs to meet the ownership requirement.
3. You meet the residence requirement if you owned the home and used it as your primary residence for at least 24 months of the previous five years before the sale. The 24 months don’t need to be consecutive. Vacations or other short absences count as time you lived in your home. If you used the home as your principal residence for 12 months in the last five years before the sale, time spent in a nursing home may count toward the 24-month requirement if you were unable to care for yourself during that time.
the sale was a change in workplace location, a health issue, or an unforeseeable event.
4. The look-back requirement is satisfied as long as you did not previously take an exclusion on the sale of your home in the two-year period prior to the current sale.
5. There are some exceptions to the eligibility tests which may affect your qualification. Some of the situations include separation or divorce, the death of a spouse, the sale of a remainder interest in the home, if your previous home was destroyed or condemned, if you used the entire property as a vacation home or rental property, or if you used a portion of the home for business or rental purposes.
If you don’t meet all the eligibility tests, you may still qualify for a partial exclusion of gain if the reason for
When the real estate market takes a downturn, it’s possible to have a mortgage that exceeds what your house is worth. In that case you may want to consider abandoning your home to your mortgage company. Whether this happens through foreclosure or a voluntary transfer, the abandonment of the property is treated as a sale. A short sale, which involves selling the property for less than the mortgage balance, is also possible. The tax effect of the abandonment or short sale will depend on whether you are personally liable to repay the mortgage or if the loan is extinguished once you no longer own the property. There are no income tax consequences of gifting all or a portion of your home or if you leave your home to someone in your will, however there may be gift or estate taxes owed. Currently the gift and estate tax exclusion is $15,000,000. Unless your gifts and estate exceed that amount, no gift or estate tax will be owed. With the unlimited marital deduction, estate tax generally applies only upon the death of the second to die in a marriage.
These are some of the tax consequences related to a change in home ownership. Because tax law changes from year to year, it’s important to do your tax planning for the year you are changing your residence.
Please remember that The Tax Corner provides information regarding taxes, however, this is not tax advice. Because tax law is complex, please consult with your tax advisor for help with your specific situation.
Elsie E. Tennant, formerly of Mansfield, OH, passed away peacefully at her residence at Mountain Park Senior Living, February 9, 2026.
Elsie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Eugene A. Tennant, on October 3, 2004. Elsie and Eugene shared 48 wonderful years together, including serving their country for 31 years through their life in the United States Air Force. Their military journey allowed them to travel extensively while serving this nation with dedication and pride. Following retirement, they made their home at Leisure World, AZ. They made lasting friendships across the world.
Elsie was devoted to serving others. She generously volunteered with the local branch of the Lions Club International at Leisure World and was named Lion of the Year in 2014. She also contributed her time and
talents to numerous other nonprofit organizations. Her giving heart, warm spirit, and dedication to helping those around her left a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She is lovingly remembered by her children: Marty (Bobby) Gandy: Sherry (Craig) Sullivan: David Tennant (Susan Oller), five Grandchildren and 5 Great Grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Juanita Judt in Ohio and sister-in-law Nedra Esbenshade in Ohio.
Elsie’s family invites all who knew her to celebrate her life and remember her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leisure World Lions Club, 908 S Power Rd., Mesa, AZ 85206 or to Holy Cross Hospice, 1103 S. Mesa Dr., Mesa, AZ 88210
Elsie’s legacy of service, love, compassion will continue to live on in the hearts of her family and friends. The family welcomes you to share favorite stories and treasured memories.
Email : Martygandy@gmail.com Text: (469)766-0531
“It’s so much darker when a light goes out than it would have been if it had never shone.”
-John Steinbeck, The Winter of Our Discontent
On Thursday, February 19th at 12 pm, a dedication to Duffy was held. A plaque in his memory is now installed in front of the practice putting green next to Hole #1 at Coyote Run. Thank you to all who attended.
On Thursday, March 12th at 2pm, a dedication was held in memory of Bradley. A plaque for Bradley, and the now informally named Power Gate to “Bradley’s Gate”, is up next to the entrance door of the Security Office. Thank you to all who attended.
If you would like more info on any of the following events, please
Play is every Friday night at 7:00 p.m. On-sets are 3 for $3; 6 for $6; and 9 for $9. Refreshments are served at the break. Water, ice, lemonade, coffee, popcorn, and pretzels. Play starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. Players may arrive at 6:00 p.m. to purchase on-sets.
LW Bingo is for Residents and their guests 18 years of age and older. Our bingo games are for recreational play and not open to the public. The State does not allow alcohol to be present or consumed during our recreational Bingo games.
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Game starts at 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Community Happy Hour is a great way to meet your neighbors and hang out with friends. With a rotating schedule of Resident Volunteer DJ’s, it is different every month. BYOB is always encouraged. Mingle with friends, meet new people, and enjoy different varieties of music based on the Resident DJ that month. If you would like to get in the rotation of Resident DJ’s, please contact the Rec. Office!
Date: Fri., April 3 & May 1
Times: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Clubroom
Gather with your friends and neighbors to test your knowledge and expand your brain! Trivia will be hosted by our very own, Scott Immel! Three rounds of 15 questions will challenge you and others to see who will top the charts. Test your knowledge with a group of eight or on your own.
Date: Wed., April 1 & 15 (Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima)| May 13 & 27 (Moving to Rec. 1)
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $2 per person
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: April 10, last market for this season!
Time: 9:00 a.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Cost: $5 per table | $1 per rack
“Hooter’s
Grub & Groove: Egg-Citing!
Don’t miss out on this fun evening! Hooter is known for inviting fellow musicians to play with his band. There’ll be a sign-up sheet and during certain ‘sets’ —- people will be invited to join the band on stage! There’s plenty of room for dancing and grooving. BYOB, grab some old friends, make some new ones and enjoy an evening of unmistakable talent! Who doesn’t love a good blues night?!
Future dates: May 12
Date: Tuesday, April 14th
Time: 6:30 - 8:30pm
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Cost: $6 tickets from the Rec. office in advance
Come listen to your favorite tunes or dance the night away with DJ Steve! Optional potluck or bring snacks for your table. BYOB. Water and ice provided. 50/50 drawing. Everyone gets an egg! Your egg may be worth prizes. Everyone is eligible to win the Golden Egg!
Date: Saturday, April 25th
Time: 4:30 - 8:30pm
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima
Cost: $6 tickets with Rec. | $8 at door
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.
As of October 2025, due to the rising costs of bringing Leisure World’s favorite bands to our events, the dance ticket costs have been adjusted to $10 in advance and $12 at the door. This change will help us continue to provide the high-quality entertainment our community enjoys. We appreciate the support and look forward to keeping up the fun at many more dances! Save the date for Memorial Day! May 25th with Video DJ Troy Smith
Back by popular demand Outside
Back by popular demand, Outside the Line—one of the Valley’s most beloved dance bands—is ready to knock your sax off once again! With a high-energy mix of Motown, Oldies, and today’s hits, they’ll keep the dance floor full and the good vibes flowing. Known for having one of the best vocal lineups in the state, this group brings top-notch talent and fun to every performance.
Date: Thurs., April 9
Time: 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $10 in advance | $12 at event
Rose is back with their wide variety of Rock
everything from 1960’s-1990’s, specializing in
and much more!
Date: Thurs., April 23
Time: 7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 2 Hopi/Pima Rooms
Cost: $10 in advance | $12 at event
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.
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!
This sweet, romantic musical, set in a charming 1930s Budapest parfumerie, tells the story of two feuding colleagues who are unaware they’re secret pen pals. A classic show, with delightful songs and heartwarming moments, She Loves Me is a perfect blend of humor and love, and the inspiration for the film “You’ve Got Mail”, which featured Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan.
Date: Thurs., April 16
Price: $50
Deadline: Wed., March 26
Join Dorothy, Toto, and their friends Scarecrow, Tinman, and Cowardly Lion as they journey down the Yellow Brick Road to the magical Land of Oz! This cherished musical brings the classic story to life with all the iconic music you know and love from the legendary MGM film. A family-fun must-see at Hale Theatre!
Date: Thurs., May 21
Price: $50
Deadline: Thurs., May 7
2025-2026 Performing Arts Series is complete!
Thank you to all who attended any of our 2025-2026 shows! We hope you enjoyed it and can’t wait to enter our next Performing Arts Season!
Jan 4, 2027
RENEWAL: 2025-2026 Season Ticket Holders will had the opportunity to get their same seats from Mon., March 2Fri., March 13. Thank you to our pass holders who renewed!
SEASON PASS GENERAL SALES: Starting on March 16th, all remaining seats will be released and will be open seating for those who would like to be new season ticket holders or would like to change their seats from last year. This can be done through LWCA.com, or via the Rec. Office.
Remaining Season Passes: Mon., Mar. 16 - Fri., Sept. 4 Individual Ticket Sales: October 5th, 2026
16, 2026
Project Presley starring Chance Tinder is a multi-awardwinning Elvis Presley tribute band, out of Las Vegas, and has been hailed as the “Southwest’s Premier” Elvis celebration. Its frontman, Chance Tinder, is an accomplished actor & entertainer with over 30 years in the Elvis Entertainment Business. Chance and Project Presley’s secret is believing that the most important thing is accurately portraying the man and his music… Not necessarily as an “re-creation / impersonation”, but rather as an honest “musical celebration” to THE KING himself.
The cast of ABBAFAB (America’s #1 tribute to ABBA) bring you an unforgettable night of your favorite Christmas songs, with some of ABBA’s greatest hits sprinkled on top. This show features an incredible 9-piece band, who recreate ABBA’s iconic sound so closely, you will believe that every Christmas song you hear was recorded by ABBA themselves! This spectacular production features brandnew arrangements of some of the most timeless Christmas hits ever written. With classics like Let It Snow, Dancing Queen, White Christmas, Mamma Mia, O Holy Night, Santa Claus is Coming To Town, and many more, this fun and unique show is a surefire way to send you back in time and get you into the holiday spirit!
Chicago is one of the longest-running, not to mention best-selling groups of all time! They hold the distinction of being the first American band EVER to chart albums in Billboard’s Pop Top 40 over six consecutive decades. Their musical vision and influence was felt over multiple generations which is why Ultimate Chicago has assembled some of the finest musicians to re-create all of the excitement, energy and nostalgia that comes with a live performance of Chicago‘s iconic music. From soaring guitar solos to punctuated full horn section features, this 90-minute show features upbeat hits such as Saturday In The Park and Beginnings as well as chart-topping ballads including Hard Habit To Break and If You Leave Me Now.
Jan 18, 2027
Get ready for a wild ride through the heart and soul of country music with TOBY, the ultimate tribute to the bad boy of country music, Toby Keith! This electrifying show is guaranteed to leave audiences on their feet, singing along to hit after hit of great country music, all brought to life by the one and only Hollywood Yates! The air pulsates with anticipation as Hollywood Yates takes center stage, belting out country music anthems that have become the soundtrack to countless lives. Sing your heart out to timeless classics like “How Do You Like Me Now,” “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” and “I Love This Bar,” feeling every word resonate deep within your soul.
February 1, 2027
This show is an explosive celebration of the iconic music of Jimmy Buffett, featuring all of his greatest hits that will have you singing along and dancing in your seat. With a band that is as talented as it is passionate, you’ll be treated to a performance that captures the essence of Buffett’s music and the lifestyle it embodies.
15, 2027
Get ready to rock with Hearts Desire, the premier tribute to the legendary band Heart! Fronted by the dynamic duo of Victoria Fairclough and Kelly Anne Gower, their electrifying performances deliver powerful harmonies and captivating energy that bring Heart’s iconic songs to life. From classic hits like “Barracuda” and “Crazy on You” to
emotional ballads like “Alone,” Victoria and Kelly create an unforgettable night filled with nostalgia and excitement. Backed by an all-star band, including Aaron Bigsby, John Lewis, and more!
Mar 1, 2027
Leave every notion of what you “thought” a juggler was at the door. Based in Los Angeles, CA, Ivan brings the term “High Energy” to an entirely different level by delivering an unforgettable show, unlike anything you have seen before. As funny as a standup comic, and as skilled as a Chinese acrobat, Ivan has appeared on MTV, America’s Got Talent, and the “Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” He will have you laughing in one moment and amazed in the next!
Mar 15, 2027
A native of Tucson, Arizona, Linda Ronstadt is recognized as one of the most important and popular interpretive singers of the ’70s, having earned a succession of platinum-selling albums and chart-topping singles. Featuring a beautiful selection of Linda’s biggest rock hits from the 70’s, her alternative country hits, big band/jazz songs, and her softer 80’s rock ballads, this show will have you singing and swaying along, as you are dazzled by the velvety voice of Kelly Anne Gower. This is the tribute you have been waiting for, so get ready for the musical journey of a lifetime!
Prices: Ticket Prices for individual shows and season passes will be increasing to support the continued quality of entertainment at Leisure World.
Individual Tickets
Section 1 — $37
Section 2 — $35
Section 3 — $33
Section 4 — $31
6-Show Packages
Section 1 — $186
Section 2 — $174
Section 3 — $162
Section 4 — $150
8-Show Packages
(Includes 2 Pre-Season Shows)
Section 1 — $222
Section 2 — $208
Section 3 — $194
Section 4 — $180
For more information, and a complete listing of all that Kindred Tours has to offer, call the office to receive a free subscription to the monthly newsletter. You can reach Kindred Tours at 480-497-2478 or visit the website at www.kindredtours.com.
Tickets will now be sold directly through Kindred Tours. For more information, and a complete listing of all that Kindred Tours has to offer, call the office to receive a free subscription to the monthly newsletter. You can reach Kindred Tours at 480-497-2478 or visit the website at www.kindredtours.com to book tours.
KEY CODES: Kindred Tours (KT) ¤ Leisure World Recreation (LW) ¤ Premier World Discovery (PWD)
Trips to Hale Theater are self-driven. 50 West Page Avenue, Gilbert, AZ 85233. Official Hale tickets are emailed with any extra information one week prior from a Recreation Team Member.
Wizard of OZ
Join Dorothy, Toto, and their friends Scarecrow, Tinman, and Cowardly Lion as they journey down the Yellow Brick Road to the magical Land of OZ! This cherished musical brings the classic story to life with all the iconic music you know and love from the legendary MGM film. A family-fun must-see at Hale Theatre!
Easter Brunch at Francisco Grande Resort
April 5, Sunday — $189
The Francisco Grande Hotel & Golf Resort opened in 1961 and quickly became the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants. Located just west of downtown Casa Grande, the resort soon became a home away from home for John Wayne, who operated a nearby farm in Stanfield. Baseball legend Willie Mays was also a frequent visitor, famously pulling into the parking lot in his pink Cadillac with a license plate that read “Say Hey,” a nod to his iconic nickname. In recent years, the resort has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation and has built a reputation for serving delicious Southwestern-style cuisine in a relaxed desert setting.
We’ll gather inside Legends Restaurant, the resort’s main dining room, for a festive Easter Brunch. This buffet-style celebration features an elegant spread of fresh salads, a prime rib carving station, omelets made to order, an array of hot entrées and sides, and a tempting assortment of desserts—plenty of delicious options to enjoy at your own pace.
Celebrate the holiday with friends, great food, and a wonderful Arizona tradition. This popular Easter outing tends to fill quickly, so be sure to reserve your seat early!
Canyon Country: Horseshoe Bend Rafting & Antelope Canyon
April 6th—8th,2026
$799 (Per Person, Double Occupancy)
$225 (Single Occupancy)
Day One: We’ll leave the Valley this morning as we head north toward the cool mountain air of Flagstaff. Late morning, we’ll enjoy lunch on self in historic downtown Flagstaff, where a wide variety of local restaurants, cafés, and familiar favorites offer something for everyone. After lunch, we’ll take time to
Date: Thurs., May 21
Price: $50
Deadline: Thurs., May 7
explore the charming streets—lined with galleries, bookshops, and interesting local stores—before continuing north. As the scenery opens to wide desert vistas and striking rock formations, we’ll make our scenic drive to Page, where the Colorado River meets Lake Powell. By late afternoon, we’ll check into the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Page–Lake Powell, our home for the next two nights. After time to relax, we’ll head out for dinner on self at The Dam Bar & Grill, a longtime local favorite known for classic comfort dishes. Enjoy a free evening afterward. Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel before we set out for one of the most memorable experiences of the tour. This morning we’ll travel to Lee’s Ferry to begin our Horseshoe Bend Raft Trip, operated by Wilderness River Adventures. This smooth-water float offers a wonderfully relaxing way to experience the dramatic beauty of the Colorado River and Glen Canyon—perfect for travelers seeking adventure without whitewater. After a short scenic drive, we’ll board a comfortable motorized pontoon raft for approximately three hours on the river. Towering sandstone cliffs rise more than a thousand feet above us, creating a peaceful yet awe-inspiring setting. Along the way, professional guides share engaging narration about the region’s geology, Indigenous history, and early river exploration. We’ll pass petroglyph sites, watch for wildlife, and enjoy unforgettable views as the river winds toward the iconic curve of Horseshoe Bend—all from the calm comfort of the raft. Lunch and bottled water are included today. Late afternoon, we’ll return to Page with time to freshen up before heading out for dinner included at Gone West Restaurant. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, live country music, and hearty Western-inspired cuisine, our included dinner features a garden salad, entrée, dessert, and soft drinks (alcoholic beverages available for purchase). After dinner, enjoy a free
evening back at the hotel.
Day Three: Breakfast is included at the hotel before it’s bags out and we’re off for an unforgettable morning. Today we’ll visit Lower Antelope Canyon, located on Navajo land and accessible only by guided tour. Lower Antelope Canyon is shaped like a “V,” allowing more light into the canyon and creating stunning layers of color, curves, and textures. Many visitors consider it the more adventurous of the two Antelope canyons, with narrow corridors and fascinating twists and turns. There are several sets of stairs leading into and out of the canyon—about 130 steps total— made of metal with sturdy handrails. The initial descent is steep, and guests are welcome to take their time. Local Navajo guides assist throughout, and thousands of visitors successfully complete the tour each year. After our canyon experience, we’ll stop at the Horseshoe Bend Overlook to take in the breathtaking views from above—offering a completely different perspective after seeing the bend from the river the day before.
Early afternoon, we’ll begin our journey home with lunch on self at the historic Cameron Trading Post. With an expansive menu and time to browse Native American arts and gifts, it’s a perfect final stop before we continue home with scenic stops along the way—bringing our remarkable adventure to a close.
April 12th, Sunday — $245
Spring brings a fresh vibrancy to the Verde Canyon, making this one of the most scenic times of year to ride the rails. Settle into a fully restored vintage FP7 locomotive—one of only a handful remaining in North America—for a relaxed four-hour journey through towering red rock cliffs, verdant riverbanks, and desert landscapes touched with early spring color.
Along the 20-mile route, we’ll pass
ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings, cross historic trestles, and glide through a 680-foot tunnel carved straight through solid rock before emerging back into bright Arizona sunshine. Where high desert meets the Verde River, the canyon creates a remarkable habitat for wildlife, waterfowl, and seasonal greenery unique to this beautiful riparian corridor. All seats are First Class, featuring spacious living room-style seating and near panoramic windows. Enjoy a champagne toast upon boarding, table service with complimentary prepackaged appetizers, and access to fullservice cash bars. We’ll arrive early at the depot to enjoy a light lunch, on self, before boarding.
Monument Valley & Canyon de Chelly
April 13th-15th, 2026
$999 Per Person (Based Upon Double Occupancy) $215 (Single Supplement) Day One: We’ll travel north with a stop for lunch, on self, at Cameron Trading Post. A haven for travelers since 1916, this 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. After lunch we’ll explore the Grand Canyon via the East Entrance at Desert View, offering a unique opportunity to visit the world-famous Desert View Watchtower. Later we’ll travel to beautiful Monument Valley, check into our rooms at Goulding’s Lodge, and after a refresh, gather for a fabulous Welcome Dinner. We’ll experience an extraordinary evening showcasing a traditional Navajo Storyteller, while enjoying a delicious Navajo taco buffet, served with homemade frybread and all the fixin’s, included.
Day Two: Breakfast is included at the hotel. Later we’ll set off on a 2.5 hour jeep tour, covering more than 30 miles
Tickets will now be sold directly through Kindred Tours. For more information, and a complete listing of all that Kindred Tours has to offer, call the office to receive a free subscription to the monthly newsletter. You can reach Kindred Tours at 480-497-2478 or visit the website at www.kindredtours.com
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 Ancestral Puebloans, 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, before boarding our Transits headed for Canyon de Chelly and 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 setting out this evening for our own driving exploration of the South Rim of Canyon de Chelly. Later we’ll return to the hotel 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 included 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 guides, 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 a buffet style lunch, featuring all-America favorites, included. After lunch it’s back in the Transits, and we’re headed for home, with plenty of stops and great sightseeing along the way. We hope you’ll join us for this remarkable tour!
The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie
April 16th, Thursday — $129
Enjoy a beautifully paced day that blends elegance, natural beauty, and comforting cuisine with a visit to The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie, followed by a relaxed included lunch at Rigatony’s Italian Restaurant.
Tucked into a quiet corner of Chandler, this enchanting lavender estate—often called the “Castle of Life”—offers a peaceful, sensory-rich experience. Our visit includes a guided tour through the mansion, where you’ll learn about the history of the property, its architectural details, and how the estate came to be a working lavender farm.
Afterward, enjoy time to stroll the fragrant grounds at your own pace, discover different lavender varieties and their uses, and browse the charming farm shop for handcrafted lavender products and gifts.
Late morning, we’ll make our way to Rigatony’s Italian Restaurant, a longtime local favorite celebrated for its warm hospitality and classic Italian comfort food. Settle in for a leisurely lunch featuring hearty pasta dishes, fresh salads, and house specialties in a welcoming, unhurried setting.
Sharlot Hall Museum, Historic Prescott & the Lakes Scenic Drive
April 28 | Tuesday | $129
Enjoy a beautifully paced day in one of Arizona’s most charming mountain towns, beginning with a visit to the
Sharlot Hall Museum, one of the state’s oldest and most engaging history museums. Set on nearly four acres in the heart of Prescott, this thoughtfully curated museum campus brings Arizona’s territorial past to life through historic buildings, immersive exhibits, and personal stories that feel both fascinating and accessible. Founded in 1928 by Sharlot M. Hall—Arizona’s first female historian and a passionate preservationist—the museum began with the rescue of the original 1864 Territorial Governor’s Mansion. Today, guests can explore preserved homes, a schoolhouse, jail, and gallery spaces that reflect the people, cultures, and daily life of early Arizona. It’s an easy, walkable experience that feels personal, rich in detail, and deeply rooted in place. After our museum visit, we’ll head a few blocks to Prescott’s iconic Whiskey Row for lunch on self. With a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, everyone can find something just right—whether you’re craving Southwestern favorites, classic comfort food, or lighter fare—while enjoying time to relax and soak in downtown Prescott’s lively character. We’ll wrap up the day with a scenic driving tour of Prescott’s lakes and Granite Dells, passing the dramatic rock formations surrounding Watson and Willow Lakes. With minimal walking and beautiful views throughout, this relaxed afternoon drive provides the perfect contrast to the morning’s history and the bustle of downtown. With cool mountain air, rich Arizona history, and stunning scenery, this is a true Kindred Tours Classic—relaxed, enriching, and wonderfully balanced.
Desert to Tall Pines & Bruzzi Vineyard
April 30 | Thursday | $145
Join us for an incredible springtime ride on the seventy-six-mile Desert to Tall Pines Scenic Byway, following Highway 288 from Globe to the tiny town of Young, Arizona.
This area, known by cowboys as “the high lonesome,” was made famous by the Pleasant Valley feud of the 1880s—an Arizona sheep war between two feuding families, the cattle-herding Grahams and the sheep-herding Tewksburys. Just before the deadly feud, the town of Young was also home to William Young, who established the settlement that still carries his name. Today, the journey to Young is considered one of the most scenic drives in the state, offering spectacular views of Roosevelt Lake and the rugged Sierra Ancha Mountains. In addition to its breathtaking scenery and fascinating history, Young is home to the first winery in Gila County—Bruzzi Vineyard. We’ll enjoy a flight of six wines along with a hearty Italian-style sandwich, included. It’s gonna be fun!
Easter Brunch at Francisco Grande Resort
April 5, Sunday — $189
The Francisco Grande Hotel & Golf Resort opened in 1961 and quickly became the spring training home of the San Francisco Giants. Located just west of downtown Casa Grande, the resort soon became a home away from home for John Wayne, who operated a nearby farm in Stanfield. Baseball legend Willie Mays was also a frequent visitor, famously pulling into the parking lot in his pink Cadillac with a license plate that read “Say Hey,” a nod to his iconic nickname. In recent years, the resort has undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation and has built a reputation for serving delicious Southwestern-style cuisine in a relaxed desert setting.
We’ll gather inside Legends Restaurant, the resort’s main dining room, for a festive Easter Brunch. This buffet-style celebration features an elegant spread of fresh salads, a prime rib carving station, omelets made to order, an array of hot entrées and sides, and a tempting assortment of desserts—plenty of delicious options to enjoy at your own pace.
Celebrate the holiday with friends, great food, and a wonderful Arizona tradition. This popular Easter outing tends to fill quickly, so be sure to reserve your seat early!
Springtime on the Verde Canyon Railroad
April 12th, Sunday — $245 Spring brings a fresh vibrancy to the Verde Canyon, making this one of the most scenic times of year to ride the rails. Settle into a fully restored vintage FP7 locomotive—one of only a handful remaining in North America—for a relaxed four-hour journey through towering red rock cliffs, verdant riverbanks, and desert landscapes touched with early spring color.
Along the 20-mile route, we’ll pass ancient Sinagua cliff dwellings, cross historic trestles, and glide through a 680-foot tunnel carved straight through solid rock before emerging back into bright Arizona sunshine. Where high desert meets the Verde River, the canyon creates a remarkable habitat for wildlife, waterfowl, and seasonal greenery unique to this beautiful riparian corridor. All seats are First Class, featuring spacious living room-style seating and near panoramic windows. Enjoy a champagne toast upon boarding, table service with complimentary pre-packaged appetizers, and access to full-service cash bars. We’ll arrive early at the depot to enjoy a light lunch, on self, before boarding.
The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie April 16th, Thursday — $129 Enjoy a beautifully paced day that blends
elegance, natural beauty, and comforting cuisine with a visit to The Lavender Farm at Chateau de Vie, followed by a relaxed included lunch at Rigatony’s Italian Restaurant.
Tucked into a quiet corner of Chandler, this enchanting lavender estate—often called the “Castle of Life”—offers a peaceful, sensory-rich experience. Our visit includes a guided tour through the mansion, where you’ll learn about the history of the property, its architectural details, and how the estate came to be a working lavender farm.
Afterward, enjoy time to stroll the fragrant grounds at your own pace, discover different lavender varieties and their uses, and browse the charming farm shop for handcrafted lavender products and gifts.
Late morning, we’ll make our way to Rigatony’s Italian Restaurant, a longtime local favorite celebrated for its warm hospitality and classic Italian comfort food. Settle in for a leisurely lunch featuring hearty pasta dishes, fresh salads, and house specialties in a welcoming, unhurried setting.
Sharlot Hall Museum, Historic Prescott & the Lakes Scenic Drive April 28 | Tuesday | $129
Enjoy a beautifully paced day in one of Arizona’s most charming mountain towns, beginning with a visit to the Sharlot Hall Museum—one of the state’s oldest and most engaging history museums. Set on nearly four acres in the heart of Prescott, this thoughtfully curated museum campus brings Arizona’s territorial past to life through historic buildings, immersive exhibits, and personal stories that feel both fascinating and accessible. Founded in 1928 by Sharlot M. Hall—Arizona’s first female historian and a passionate preservationist—the museum began with the rescue of the original 1864 Territorial Governor’s Mansion. Today, guests can explore preserved homes, a schoolhouse, jail, and gallery spaces that reflect the people, cultures, and daily life of early
Trips and Tours continues on B12
Arizona. It’s an easy, walkable experience that feels personal, rich in detail, and deeply rooted in place.
After our museum visit, we’ll head a few blocks to Prescott’s iconic Whiskey Row for lunch on self. With a wide variety of restaurants to choose from, everyone can find something just right while enjoying time to relax and soak in downtown Prescott’s lively character.
We’ll wrap up the day with a scenic driving tour of Prescott’s lakes and the Granite Dells, passing the dramatic rock formations surrounding Watson and Willow Lakes. With minimal walking and beautiful views throughout, this relaxed afternoon drive provides the perfect contrast to the morning’s history and the bustle of downtown.
With cool mountain air, rich Arizona history, and stunning scenery, this is a true Kindred Tours Classic—relaxed, enriching, and wonderfully balanced.
Desert to Tall Pines & Bruzzi Vineyard
April 30 | Thursday | $145
Join us for an incredible springtime ride on the seventy-six-mile Desert to Tall Pines Scenic Byway, following Highway 288 from Globe to the tiny town of Young, Arizona.
This area, known by cowboys as “the high lonesome,” was made famous by the Pleasant Valley feud of the 1880s—an Arizona sheep war between two feuding families, the cattle-herding Grahams and the sheep-herding Tewksburys. Just before the deadly feud, the town of Young was also home to William Young, who established the settlement that still carries his name. Today, the journey to Young is considered one of the most scenic drives in the state, offering spectacular views of Roosevelt Lake and the rugged Sierra Ancha Mountains.
In addition to its breathtaking scenery and fascinating history, Young is home to the first winery in Gila County—Bruzzi Vineyard. We’ll enjoy a flight of six wines along with a hearty Italian-style sandwich, included. It’s gonna be fun!
Mother’s Day Brunch & the Sedona Scenic Byways
May 10th, Sunday — $199 Nestled into hundreds of acres of ponderosa pine forest, Little America Hotel has been a Flagstaff landmark since 1952. Mother’s Day brunches at Little
America are legendary. Enjoy bottomless mimosas, champagne, and Bloody Marys along with an incredible spread featuring made-to-order omelets, Belgian waffles, assorted crepes, fresh fruit and salads, savory carving stations, seafood selections, and more. Later, we’ll explore the charming streets of historic downtown Flagstaff before settling back into the Transits to travel south on Arizona 89A—a 14-mile stretch of high-country switchbacks with stops along the way at dramatic overlooks. Rated a Top 5 Most Scenic Drive by Rand McNally, the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road is especially spectacular during the spring season. And if that’s not enough, Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Road transitions into the Red Rock Scenic Byway, Arizona’s first All-American Road.
Often called “The Museum Without Walls,” the Red Rock Scenic Byway in Sedona attracts visitors from around the world. It cannot be overstated how fortunate we are that these two breathtaking scenic byways are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Valley— and ours to enjoy with every changing season.
Ever After at Phoenix Theatre
May 21st, Thursday — $139
Step into a world of romance, humor, and adventure with Ever After at the Phoenix Theatre Company. Inspired by the beloved film starring Drew Barrymore, this enchanting musical reimagines the classic Cinderella story with a spirited heroine who refuses to wait for her happily-ever-after. Set in Renaissance France, the story follows the strong-willed Danielle as she navigates court intrigue, unexpected romance, and the courage to forge her own destiny. Filled with soaring music, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, Ever After is a charming modern twist on a timeless fairy tale. Before the performance, we’ll enjoy lunch on self at Miracle Mile Deli, a longtime Valley favorite known for hearty sandwiches, classic comfort food, and friendly service—an easy and satisfying start to our afternoon.
Cape Cod & the Islands
June 13–19, 2026
$3,775 pp/double | $4,625 pp/ single | Includes Roundtrip Airfare
Phoenix
Call us for the full itinerary.
Majestic Canadian Rockies Featuring Five Nights in Banff
National Park
July 26–31, 2026
$4,349 pp/double | $5,649 pp/single |
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix
Call us for the full itinerary.
Mackinac Island, the Grand Hotel & Niagara Falls
June 3-10, 2026| $4449 pp/ double | $5449 pp/single|
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
Cape Cod & the Islands June 13–19, 2026 | $3,775 pp/ double | $4,625 pp/single | Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
Majestic Canadian Rockies
Featuring Five Nights in Banff
National Park
July 26–31, 2026 | $4,349 pp/double |
$5,649 pp/single
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
Pageant of the Masters: The Greatest of All Time
Featuring the Getty Center
August 10–13, 2026 | $1,199 pp/double |
$1,449 pp/single
Call us for the full itinerary.
Monument Valley & Canyon de Chelly
October 5th–7th, 2026
$999 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $215 (Single Supplement) Call us for the full itinerary.
Thanksgiving in New York City
Featuring the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade & the Rockettes
Christmas Spectacular
November 23rd–27th, 2026
$3,659 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $1,199 (Single Supplement)
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
New Orleans Holiday
Featuring the French Quarter, Oak Alley Plantation & Celebration in the Oaks
December 1st–5th, 2026
$3,149 Per Person (Double Occupancy) + $700 (Single Supplement)
Includes Roundtrip Airfare Phoenix Call us for the full itinerary.
May Group Exercise Class Registrations
Begins Wednesday, April 15 at 7:00 a.m., online, in-person or by phone.
If you register for a class with Silver Sneakers®/ Flex®, Silver & Fit®, or Renew Active®, you are required to attend 100% of the classes for the month. A $2 fee will be charged to your account for each class missed.
www.lwca.com
My name is Rob Haynes. My wife, Cindy, and I bought in Leisure World in May of 2013 and following my retirement in 2019 after 34 years in a senior executive role with a natural gas utility in Saskatchewan, we made Leisure World our winter home.
Friends introduced us to Leisure World, and we ended up buying a house here with a view to having a place to land after retirement for the same reasons our friends bought: Leisure World offers a wide variety of things to do here, second to any other retirement resort we toured. Most importantly, the sport and recreation facilities here are state of the art and easily accessible. I am an avid golfer, and my wife and I are also committed tennis players. The fitness facility in Leisure World is world class and the programming offered has something for everyone. Most recently, I have taken advantage of the Stretching, and the Mobility and Functional Movement classes as they have helped both my golf and tennis games and are helping to prevent injury.
Outside of Leisure World my wife and I are proud grandparents to 5 grandchildren, ages 7, 7, 5, 4, and 3. Two of our grandchildren live in Australia, and as such we travel there annually.
Spring always gets marketed as the season of “go time.”
Fresh start. New habits. Big plans. Reinvention.
And while that energy is real, I think spring is actually something a little more interesting from a nervous system perspective.
It’s not a sudden explosion of productivity. It’s a thaw.
Now, I know, we live in Arizona… so let’s be clear: nothing here is frozen. We’re not digging our cars out of snowbanks or watching the ground literally defrost. But even in the desert, the shift still happens.
The light changes.
The air feels different.
People start lingering outside again.
And whether we realize it or not, our nervous systems track those cues.
Because the body doesn’t just respond to temperature. It responds to light, rhythm, seasonality, and the subtle signals that say there’s more life available right now.
Nature shows us this perfectly. Nothing wakes up all at once. The ground softens first. Light stretches a little longer into the evening. Tiny shoots appear where things looked completely dormant just weeks before.
Spring is gradual permission. Your body works the same way.
After months of shorter days and quieter internal rhythms, the nervous system doesn’t immediately jump into full acceleration just because the calendar says it’s time. It recalibrates. It tests the waters. It stretches.
You might notice it in small ways.
A little more motivation to move.
A little more capacity for connection.
A new idea that feels exciting instead of overwhelming.
An old routine that suddenly feels ready for an upgrade.
In winter (even desert winter), movement tends to be slower, heavier, a little more inward. The body craves grounding. Stability. Warm-up time.
But when spring shows up, people naturally start reaching more. Rotating more. Walking a little farther. Staying outside a little longer. There’s a subtle shift toward expansion.
Not because we forced it.
Because the nervous system feels safe enough to open. That’s the real spring energy. Not hustle.
Not pressure.
Just the body quietly recognizing that conditions have changed… and responding in kind.
Nature doesn’t rush its transitions, and neither do healthy nervous systems.
Spring isn’t an invitation to push harder. It’s an invitation to gently reawaken.
Ingredients:
4 ½ cups sliced Yukon potatoes (about 2 ½ lbs)
3 TBSP salted butter
3 TBSP all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups half-and-half
1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese, divided
1 cup shredded colby or cheddar cheese, divided
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F , grease a 9x13 baking dish.
Spices
1-1 ½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
(smaller baking dish if doing vertical)
Peel and thinly slice potatoes to ⅛“ thickness. Place into a large mixing bowl.
April 2026
In a separate small bowl, mix spices (salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder). Once mixed, sprinkle over the sliced potatoes, mix well to coat, set aside.
In a medium pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk the flour into the melted butter until completely combined and let cook for about 1 minute while continuously stirring to create a roux.
Add the ½ & ½ to the roux and whisk well. Once combined and smooth add ½ cup of the monterey jack and ½ cup of the colby cheese and continue stirring/whisking until completely combined then remove from the heat and set aside. Now we can put this all together ~ Spread half of the potatoes to cover the bottom of the baking dish. It’s fine if they are overlapping, that’ll give space for the amazing sauce to seep into. Pour in half of the cheese sauce and spread it out covering the potatoes. Repeat this process with the rest of the potatoes and cheese sauce to create another layer, making sure all of the potatoes are completely covered. Top with the remaining cheese. (If doing vertical potatoes; line the potatoes vertically in the baking dish, pour the sauce over the potatoes. top with remaining cheese.)
Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove cover and bake uncovered for another 30-45 minutes or until cheese is bubbly . Let rest 10-15 minutes before serving.
Bodyweight exercises and weightlifting can both help you get stronger, but they work in different ways. The best choice depends on your goals, experience level, and access to equipment. Generally, weightlifting is better for long-term gains.
What’s the Difference Between Bodyweight Exercises and Weightlifting?
Bodyweight exercises use your own body weight as resistance. Common examples include push-ups, lunges, squats, planks, and pull-ups. These exercises rely on gravity and body positioning to challenge your muscles.
Weightlifting, on the other hand, uses external resistance such as dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, or weight machines. By adding weight, you can make exercises more challenging over time, often with greater efficiency.
Why Weightlifting Strengthens Muscles Better
When it comes to muscle growth, weightlifting generally has an advantage. Lifting weights makes it easier to steadily increase resistance, which is one of the main drivers of muscle and strength gains. Besides slowly increasing the amount of weight you lift as you get stronger, you can also adjust the number of sets or repetitions to continue making progress.
Bodyweight exercises can still promote muscle growth, especially for beginners or people returning to exercise. However, as strength improves, it can become harder to keep increasing the challenge without adding more repetitions, holding positions longer, or learning advanced movements. Over time, progress may slow because there is a limit to how much resistance body weight alone can provide.
Bottom line: While both methods are effective, weightlifting often allows for faster and more noticeable
strength gains because it offers more ways to increase difficulty.3
Even though weightlifting can increase muscle size and strength more efficiently, that doesn’t mean bodyweight exercises fall short. Bodyweight movements often work several muscle groups at the same time, helping the body learn to move as a unit rather than in isolated parts.
Many bodyweight exercises require balance, coordination, and control. Because you are supporting your own body, muscles must work together to keep you stable. This improves body awareness, posture, and control, which are important for daily movement. These skills carry over into everyday activities like carrying groceries, getting up from a chair, climbing stairs, or walking on uneven ground. Training balance and coordination can also help reduce the risk of falls and injuries, especially as people age. Weightlifting can also support everyday strength, particularly when using free weights like dumbbells or barbells. Free-weight exercises challenge balance and stability more than machines when they are performed with proper form.
One of the biggest advantages of bodyweight exercises is convenience. They can be done at home, outdoors, or while traveling, with little to no equipment needed Weightlifting usually requires access to a gym or home equipment, which can take more time and cost more money. For people with limited space or busy schedules, bodyweight workouts may be easier to stick with.
For beginners, bodyweight exercises are often easier to modify, which makes them a safe place to start.
Movements can be adjusted to match different strength and fitness levels, helping people build confidence as they learn proper form. Because bodyweight exercises do not use external weights, there is generally less risk of lifting too much too soon.
That said, weightlifting can also be very safe when done correctly. Most injuries happen when people lift weights that are too heavy or use poor technique. Starting with lighter weights, focusing on proper form, and increasing resistance gradually can greatly reduce injury risk. When done with good instruction and appropriate loading, weightlifting is a safe and effective way to build strength.
If you’re deciding between bodyweight exercises and weightlifting, start by thinking about your goals and lifestyle. If building muscle and strength as efficiently as possible is your priority, incorporating weightlifting may be helpful. If convenience, balance, or low impact matter more, bodyweight exercises can be a great place to begin.
Beginners may benefit from starting with bodyweight movements to learn proper form and build confidence before adding weights. As strength improves, combining both types of exercise can provide well-rounded results. Using bodyweight exercises for balance and coordination alongside weightlifting for strength can support long-term fitness and reduce injury risk.
No matter which approach you choose, consistency matters most. Start at a level that feels manageable, focus on good form, and increase difficulty gradually to build strength safely over time.
https://www.health.com/bodyweight-exercises-vsweightlifting-11897818
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY
SPLASH classes performed in the pool that offer a low-impact, full-body workout that can improve cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, flexibility, and balance. These classes are often designed for various fitness levels and can be adapted for individuals with joint pain or injuries
UNFOLD classes create space in the body and mind through a blend of intentional movement, deep stretching, mobility work, breath awareness, and meditation.
*These classes DO NOT accept insurance or our pre-paid packages
**This class DOES accept insurance but DOES NOT accept our pre-paid packages
• Schedule is subject to change.
• Pre-paid packages to use for daily group classes (Some restrictions apply).
‘A Perfect 10’ - $50 ($5/class) or a ‘Power Pack 20’ - $80 ($4/class) . Packages are good for 180 days from the date of purchase
• Registration for monthly group classes: If you are using insurance must be done in person at the fitness center or by calling 480-832-0000 ext 212 . If you are
Designed to help you release tension, increase flexibility and reconnect with your body. Expect deep stretches, jointnourishing mobility work, calming breath techniques and/or grounding moments of reflection.
EVOLVE classes aim to promote physical along with person development. All lowimpact and true to form. These classes include yoga, Pilates, barre and tai-chi
GLOW classes are designed to elevate the heart rate and to improve cardiovascular
health and well-being.
STABLE classes are designed around the use of a chair whether it is cardio or yoga, we’ll focus on keeping you stable and secure.
TRANSFORM classes are designed to change body composition through strength, mobility or circuit training.
*Please note we no longer use levels for classes as we have found that this causes participants to limit their capabilities,
self-paying you may register online, in person or by calling the fitness center at 480-832-0000 ext 21
• Registration for all individual classes can now be done online, in person at the fitness center or by calling the fitness center at 480-832-0000 ext 212. *Please note, this will only hold your spot in the class, payment (if applicable) will be due at the time of the class*
• Registration for May group exercise classes opens Wednesday, April 25.
• Fitness Center Guest Membership: Leisure World members who would like to add a guest to their membership for use of Fitness Center can please do so at the
front desk of the administration building or online at lwca.com. Sign into your member account, go to ‘departments’ and choose ‘Aquatic & Athletic Sports Club’ scroll down to ‘Guest Membership’. There is room to enter four guests. Click ‘Submit’
• All members and guests must sign-in on the computer at the fitness center desk. If you do not know your member number, please touch the screen for ‘last name’ enter your last name, touch ‘register’, find your name and touch the red ‘check in’ box. You are all set, there is no need to do anything when you leave.
• Aqua Fitness and Hydro Rider classes are subject to cancellation due to weather
putting themselves into a ‘box’ thinking that they can only do a certain level class. Instead, we have put classes into categories depending on the type of class. Therefore, if you are looking for a cardio class for example you can look specifically at the Yellow “Glow” classes. Most of our classes can be modified to fit any level. If you need help or have certain restrictions, please feel free to talk with the instructor so that they can give you specific directions or modifications.
conditions. Residents who self-pay for these classes will receive a credit to their A/R member account for cancelled classes.
Pilates ~ T/Th 10:00AM – 10:45AM (45-minute class)
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. $6/class (1 punch on prepaid package) or $30.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Pilates ~ Mondays 3:00PM – 3:45PM (45-minute class)
Strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and enhance posture in this lowimpact, full-body workout. Pilates focuses on controlled movements, breathwork, and alignment to build strength, stability, and body awareness. Suitable for all fitness levels, with modifications available. You must be able to get on and off the floor with or without chair assistance. $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
Rec.1
Classroom
Rec.1
Classroom Express Yoga ~ Mondays 12:45PM – 1:30PM (45-miute class)
**NEW CLASS ALERT**
This shortened yoga class blends gentle flow with intentional stretching to release tension, calm the nervous system, and support strength and mobility. Expect a steady-paced, accessible flow that lightly challenges the body, making it ideal for a midday reset or post-work unwind. Perfect for slowing down, breathing deeply, and restoring balance—without a long time commitment. Bring your own mat or use one of ours.$6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
Yoga ~ Thursdays 11:45am – 1:00PM (75-minute class)
Unwind, stretch, and strengthen in this all-levels yoga class designed to help you reconnect with your body and mind. Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or brand new to the mat, this class offers a balanced blend of breathwork, gentle movement, and mindful poses to increase flexibility, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. Bring your own yoga mat (or you can use one of ours). $12/Class or 2 punches if using pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 2 drop-ins)
Boxing / Kickboxing ~ Mondays 10:00AM – 10:45AM & Thursdays 2:00PM – 2:45PM (45 minute class)
This class challenges participants with dynamic combinations, agility drills and strength focused exercises. It increases coordination, endurance, balance and full body power while emphasizing safe technique and functional movement for daily life. $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
Cardio/Core/Sculpt ~ M/W/F 9:00AM – 9:45AM (45-minute class)
A full body workout to improve cardiovascular fitness, build muscle and enhance core strength. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $35.00/ month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Clogging ~ Fridays 11:45AM – 2:45PM
Clogging is a truly American form of dancing, with steps taken from different cultures, and can be danced to a wide variety of music styles. It is good physical exercise as well as brain exercise! The focus is on learning the steps, and the steps are “called” so you can easily dance to different songs as you learn. You are welcome to learn at your own pace, and the class ranges from early beginner to intermediate plus and more. $5/ hour or $35.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in per hour) No pre-paid packages accepted
Drumming ~ Tuesdays 2:00PM – 2:45PM (45-minute class)
BEAT IT! Cardio Drumming! – A fun, fast-paced workout that incorporates drumming and cardio to the rhythm of music. Improve balance, coordination, and concentration while listening to music. All levels welcome! $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) ~ T/TH 9:00AM – 9:45AM (45-minute class) A motivating, low impact circuit training workout developed to safely increase strength, balance and cardiovascular health through guided timed intervals at a fast, yet comfortable pace – helping participants feel energized, capable and excited to stay active. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $30.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Zumba Gold ~ Wednesdays 10:00AM – 10:45AM (45 minute class)
This is a low impact, but high energy class. There’s a wide range of fun music, and social interaction as we exercise together. No worries if you have not done Zumba before, do what you can and enjoy the movement and music. $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
AquaFit ~ M/W/F 12:00PM – 12:45AM (45-minute class)
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. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $35.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Updated 3/21/2026
H2-Oh Yeah! ~ Tuesdays 1:30PM – 2:15PM & Thursdays 1:30PM –2:15PM (45-minute class) **NEW CLASS ALERT**
delivers a dynamic total-body workout using water resistance to improve strength, stability, and endurance. This energizing class is designed to challenge you in a joint-friendly environment while boosting overall fitness and confidence. (Note this class is at Rec 2 Pool). $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
Hydro Rider® ~ Tuesdays 12:15PM – 1:15PM & Thursdays 12:15PM –1:15PM (60-minute class)
Aqua cycling has become a fitness phenomenon because of the many incredible benefits - high caloric burn, lean muscle-building, increased circulation, with low impact on the joints. Aqua shoes are required. $12/ class or 2 punches on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 2 drop-ins)
HydroSPIN ~ Wednesday 12:15PM – 1:15PM & Saturday 12:15PM –1:15PM (60-minute class)
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Hydro-Spin is styled after a traditional spin bike class. The focus will be on aerobic and cardio foundations. Utilizing lower body and large muscle groups. Aqua shoes are required. $12/class or 2 punches on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 2 drop-ins)
Chair Yoga ~ M/W 2:00PM – 2:45PM (45-minute class)
Join us for a rejuvenating and gentle yoga experience designed to promote flexibility, body awareness, mental clarity and pain management from the safety and comfort of your chair. No prior yoga experience is necessary. Minimal equipment may be used to assist in a deeper or more stable stretch. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $25.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Total Body Strength ~ M/W/F 11:00AM – 11:30AM or T/TH 11:00AM –11:30AM (30-minute class)
Enhance overall strength and balance through exercises primarily performed either in or with a chair. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $30.00/month for M/W/F or $25/month for T/TH (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Level Up ~ M/W 11:45AM – 12:15PM (30-minute class)
The next step beyond Total Body Strength, this elevated class boosts overall power, strength, balance and coordination through dynamic, fullrange movements performed in, with and around a chair for greater totalbody control. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $25.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Functional Circuit ~ T/TH 3:00PM - 3:45 PM (45-minute class)
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. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $30.00/ month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
TRU Strength ~ M/W/F 6:00AM - 6:45 AM (45-minute class)
Build real, measurable strength. A class for progressive overload using proper form and technique with a variety of equipment like dumbbells, barbells, bands and even body weight. Break plateaus, prevent injury and get stronger week by week. $6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $35.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
TRXtreme ~ T/TH 8:00AM – 8:45AM (45-minute class)
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Push your limits in TRXtreme, a high-intensity, total-body workout that combines TRX suspension training with cardio intervals, core conditioning, and strength challenges. Designed for those looking to take their fitness to the next level, this class builds functional strength, endurance, and mobility using just your bodyweight and the TRX system. Get ready to sweat, burn, and feel the Xtreme difference.$6/class (1 punch on pre-paid package) or $30.00/month (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – monthly class or counts as 1 drop-in)
Stretch & Mobility ~ Tuesdays 11:45AM – 12:30PM (45-minute class), Mondays & Thursdays 4:00PM – 4:30PM (30 minute class)
Unlock your body’s full potential with this rejuvenating Stretch & Mobility class. Designed to improve muscle and joint function, flexibility, and overall movement quality, this class combines dynamic mobility drills with deep, intentional stretching to lubricate the body, enhance balance and range of motion, and support more effortless, pain-free movement. A powerful preventative tool for reducing stiffness and injury while improving posture and recovery. This class will require time spent on the floor. $6/Class or 1 punch on pre-paid package (Silver Sneakers, Silver & Fit, Renew, OnePass – counts as 1 drop-in)
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Your body is made to react to stress in ways meant to protect you against threats from predators and other aggressors. Such threats are rare today. But that doesn’t mean that life is free of stress.
Instead, you likely face many demands each day. For example, you may take on a huge workload, pay bills or take care of your family. Your body treats these everyday tasks as threats. Because of this, you may feel as if you’re always under attack. But you can fight back. You don’t have to let stress control your life.
Understanding the natural stress response
When you face a perceived threat, a tiny region at the brain’s base, called the hypothalamus, sets off an alarm system in the body. An example of a perceived threat is a large dog barking at you during your morning walk. Through nerve and hormonal signals, this system prompts the adrenal glands, found atop the kidneys, to release a surge of hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol.
Adrenaline makes the heart beat faster, causes blood pressure to go up and gives you more energy. Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, increases sugar, also called glucose, in the bloodstream, enhances the brain’s use of glucose and increases the availability of substances in the body that repair tissues.
Cortisol also slows functions that would be nonessential or harmful in a fight-or-flight situation. It changes immune system responses and suppresses the digestive system, the reproductive system and growth processes. This complex natural alarm system also communicates with the brain regions that control mood, motivation and fear.
When the natural stress response goes wild
The body’s stress response system is usually self-limiting. Once a perceived threat has passed, hormones return to typical levels. As adrenaline and cortisol levels drop, your heart rate and blood pressure return to typical levels. Other systems go back to their regular activities. But
when stressors are always present and you always feel under attack, that fight-or-flight reaction stays turned on.
The long-term activation of the stress response system and too much exposure to cortisol and other stress hormones can disrupt almost all the body’s processes. This puts you at higher risk of many health problems, including:
• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Digestive problems.
• Headaches.
• Muscle tension and pain.
• Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke.
• Sleep problems.
• Weight gain.
• Problems with memory and focus. That’s why it’s so important to learn healthy ways to cope with your life stressors.
Why you react to life stressors the way you do
Your reaction to a potentially stressful event is different from everyone else’s. How you react to your life stressors is affected by such factors as:
• Genetics. The genes that control the stress response keep most people at a fairly steady emotional level, only sometimes priming the body for fight or flight. More active or less active stress responses may stem from slight differences in these genes.
• Life experiences. Strong stress reactions sometimes can be traced to traumatic events. People who were neglected or abused as children tend to be especially at risk of experiencing high stress. The same is true of airplane crash survivors, people in the military, police officers and firefighters, and people who have experienced violent crime.
You may have some friends who seem relaxed about almost everything. And you may have other friends who react strongly to the slightest stress. Most people react to life stressors somewhere between those extremes.
Learning to react to stress in a healthy way
Stressful events are facts of life. And you may not be able to change your current situation. But you can take steps to manage the impact these events have on you. You can learn to identify what causes you stress. And you can learn how to take care of yourself physically and emotionally in the face of stressful situations.
Try these stress management tips:
• Eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. Get plenty of sleep too.
• Do relaxation exercises such as yoga, deep breathing, massage or meditation.
• Keep a journal. Write about your thoughts or what you’re grateful for in your life.
• Take time for hobbies, such as reading or listening to music. Or watch your favorite show or movie.
• Foster healthy friendships and talk with friends and family.
• Have a sense of humor. Find ways to include humor and laughter in your life, such as watching funny movies or looking at joke websites.
• Volunteer in your community.
• Organize and focus on what you need to get done at home and work and remove tasks that aren’t needed.
• Seek professional counseling. A counselor can help you learn specific coping skills to manage stress.
Stay away from unhealthy ways of managing your stress, such as using alcohol, tobacco, drugs or excess food. If you’re worried that your use of these products has gone up or changed due to stress, talk to your health care provider.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stressmanagement/in-depth/stress/art-20046037
Learn more about how stress and inflammation impact your body—and how nutrition can help reduce both—at our fitness workshop, “Eat to Calm Stress & Inflammation.”
By Freddy Groves
On a recent National Slam the Scam Day for 2026, the VA stepped up, along with other federal agencies, with an array of information to keep veterans safe from scams and fraud. Thieves don’t just work one day per year, however. We need to stay vigilant all year long to protect our benefits and personal information from getting to the scammers.
Why do they want us? Because we have income and benefits.
How do they approach us? Phone calls, emails, text messages, social media, phishing, impersonation, fake charities -- you name it, the crooks have thought of it as a way to get to us.
If you’re approached, whether on the phone or in email, the more urgent the problem, the more likely it’s a scam. A scammer might pretend to be from the VA and try to claim there’s something wrong with your benefits -- and that you need to hand over your personal information so they can “fix” the problem. They might want your bank account access info or password, your Social Security number, your date of birth. The answer is no.
Don’t do a direct deposit into another person’s account -- even if it’s a relative! If you need a fiduciary situation (where someone helps you with finances), have that person go through the accreditation process and be authorized to assist you. You’re protected that way.
If you’re told you need to hand over a fee to get claims assistance from the VA or to apply for increased benefits, it’s fraud.
Invest in a shredder and use it to cut up not only VA documents with personal information on them, but any documents that can go astray, even when you put out the trash.
If someone calls and claims to be from the VA and asks you to pay for something with a gift card or bitcoin, feel free to laugh as you hang up the phone. It’s an impostor. Report it to the VA at 800-827-1000.
(c) 2026 King Features Synd., Inc.
Submitted by Lynda Longpre, CRWGA Secretary Even thought February was a short month, CRWGA’s calendar was especially busy with two exciting tournaments that kept everyone energized and engaged. The spectacular weather with lots of sunshine, warm breezes and ideal golfing conditions made it feel as though spring had arrived early, to ensure that every participant enjoyed every moment, from the first tee to the final putt.
Our first event was the Chicks with Sticks “Partners in Crime” Invitational Tournament. We were especially delighted to welcome many guests from outside our LW community who joined us for this event. The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Guests shared how much they enjoyed the energy, organization, hospitality, and warm camaraderie of our league. It was wonderful to showcase not just our golf course, but our spirit of fun and friendship.
It began on the Monday evening before the tournament with a Mini Putting Contest at the Club House putting green followed by a “Partners in Crime” Jeopardy and social afterwards. Cheers erupted for long one-putts, groans followed near misses, and plenty of good-natured teasing filled the practice green. Observers could say that the putting was mostly skill with perhaps a little bit of luck sprinkled in.
The next day, Tournament Day, was a two-person team playing a one best net ball for the final twosome score. Participants arrived dressed as dynamic partners ready to play and to perform. We spotted Thelma and Louise, Thing One and Thing Two, Salt and Pepper, Gin and Tonic, Fred and Wilma, many ‘wanted’ posters strangely enough many of whom we recognized as being on our golf course, a few criminals in prison garb protesting their innocence, Cruella de Vil with one dalmatian by her side and many other famous duos among the attendees. Playful banter and plenty of laughter echoed throughout the room. The photo station was a huge hit, complete with themed props and plenty of memorable snapshots to capture the fun. Through the generosity of our CRWGA members, businesses, CR Pro Shop and Coyote Run women golfers, all the above donated beautiful items for the many raffle baskets. The raffle tables were overflowing and the excitement during the drawings was almost as intense as the golf competition itself. It was a day filled with fun, friendship, creativity, and camaraderie – proving yet again that golf is even better when shared with your favourite ‘partner in crime’.
Tournament Flight Winners were: Flight One: Zaharichuk/Froning, Flight Two: Daley/Ray, Flight Three: Stearns/Rath and Franke/Dixon (tied), and Flight Four: Weimer/Heisler. Congratulations all!
Our second event, The President’s Cup, an exclusive event for CRWGA members only, brought together golfers in a competitive yet friendly 2-day flighted low net gross
format. Participants were grouped into flights, ensuring fair and exciting competition across all skill levels. Joyce Shepp emerged as the overall winner, demonstrating remarkable consistency and skill throughout both days. Her impressive performance earned her well-deserved recognition and applause from fellow members, in the spirit of sportsmanship and friendship.
Tournament Flight Winners were: Flight One: Leslie Goff, Flight Two; Marlene Zaharichuk, Flight Three: Laurie Brinkman, Flight Four: Ann Jonasen, and Flight Five: Cindy Gee. Congratulations all!
Make the most of this gorgeous weather and enjoy a round of golf! See you on the course!
New Members are always welcome!
For more information, please contact Joanne Weiss CRWGA Membership: 403470-2933 https//coyoterunwomen.azgolf.org
Submitted by: Mary Paulson
We had the Combined Championship Tournament on March 17th & 24th Results will be published in the May newspaper. On April 7th we will have our annual “Fun Day” with a “Masters” theme. Lunch will be served after golf. Our last day of golf league for the 2025/2026 golf season will be Tuesday, April 28th
February Golf Results
February 3, 2026 (2 Net)
1st place at 52 - Minde Strief, Connie Richert, Sharon Suchon, Jane Cox 2nd place at 54 - Bonnie Anderson, Ann Moskal, Debi Budvarson, Nancy Klotovich
3rd place at 55 - Kim Weimer, Ginny Hoyt, Penny Parson, Vciky Hauflaire 4th place at 58 (tied) - Betty Horner, Cheryle Wenck, Dawn Kasper, Jane Cox (blind draw), Jan Rydalch, Marsha Dalling, Pat Connelly, Lynn Peters
February 10, 2026 (Scramble) 1st place at 13 (tied) - Betty Horner, Rita Folk, Marilyn Weber, Sue Paitel, Minde Strief, Debbie Dehne, Denise Haala
3rd place at 15 (tied) – Lisa Steward, Cheryle Wenck, Mary Bell, Vicky Hauflaire, Susan Kolankowski, Ann Moskal, Peggy Babb
February 17 and 24, 2026 (Eclectic Tournament)
Flight 1
1st place at 24 (tied) - Minde Strief, Marsha Dalling
3rd place at 26 - Debi Budvarson
Flight 2
1st place at 22 - Dawn Kasper
2nd place at 25 - Marcia Steele
3rd place at 26 - Pam Schmitt
Flight 3
1st place at 26 - Bev Dillon
2nd place at 27 - Patty Kohoutek
3rd place at 28 - Bev Byrd
Flight 4
1st place at 24 - Peggy Babb
2nd place at 25 - Lynn Peters
3rd place at 26 - Sue Paitel
Submitted by: Don Paulson
This month we held our Member/Member 2-week tournament on February 16th and 23rd. Congratulations to all winners. Our Club Champion/President’s Cup tournament will be held on March 9th and 16th.
We are always looking for new members so if you are interested in joining us, please contact Don Paulson (paulsondo01@gmail.com).
February 2, 2026 – Follow the Groundhog
1st Place at 103 – Ben Boss, Wayne Richert, Joel Westphal, Wayne Dixon
2nd Place at 106 – Shane Budvarson, John Mullen, Kevin Sorenson, Dave Foley
3rd Place at 107 – Jack Stockton, Ron Whetter (BD), Bruce Rodabaugh, Ken Meidl
4th Place at 110 – Jeff York, Don Steffan, Jim Gardin, Larry Ziehm
February 9, 2026 – Happy Gilmore Scramble
1st Place at 46 – Andy Kolankowski, Don Steffan, Jim Greene, Bruce Rodabaugh
2nd Place at 47 – Ken Dryden, Wayne Richert, Joel Westphal, Larry Schmitt
3rd Place at 48 – Shane Budvarson, John Mullen, Jim Gardin, Larry Ziehm
4th Place tie at 49 – John Fleming, John Shostak, Kevin Sorenson, Don Paulson
4th Place tie at 49 – Jeff York, Denny McKay, Ken Steele, Dave Foley
February 16th and 23rd, 2026 – Member/Member Tournament
Flight A
1st Place at 101 – Jack Stockton, Andy Kolankowski
2nd Place tie at 103 – John Mullen, John Fleming
2nd Place tie at 103 – Sam Yanes, John Erickson
Flight B
1st Place at 100 – Wayne Dixon, Mike Nell
2nd Place at 101 – Rich Blum, Dave Foley
3rd Place tie at 103 – Jim Gardin, Bill Klepacki
3rd Place tie at 103 – Joel Westphal, Ken Meidl
Submitted by: Don Paulson
This month we held our Member/Member 2-week tournament on February 19th and 26th. Congratulations to all winners. Our Club Champion/President’s Cup tournament will be held on March 12th and 19th.
We are always looking for new members so if you are interested in joining us, please contact Don Paulson (paulsondo01@gmail.com).
February 5, 2026 – Dead Man’s Curve
1st Place at 61 – Bill Dalling, Wayne Richert, Duane Dehne, Jack Dechellis
2nd Place at 63 – John Shostak, Kevin Sorenson, Bruce Rodabaugh, Larry Miller
3rd Place tie at 65 – Ted Jackson, Bill Brayton, Jim Nell, Wayne Dixon
3rd Place tie at 65 – Ron Whetter, Jim Greene, Don Paulson, Mike Nell
February 12, 2026 – Roll the Dice
1st Place tie at 33 – Ben Boss, Bruce Rodabaugh, Mike Nell
1st Place tie at 33 – Shane Budvarson, Bill Klepacki, Gary Byrd
3rd Place at 34 – John Dailey, Joe Vitetta, Denny McKay
4th Place at 35 – Ken Dryden, Kevin Sorenson, Bob Strief
5th Place tie at 36 – John Shostak, Rod Heim, Wayne Dixon
5th Place tie at 36 – Ted Jackson, Robert Hoyt, Jim Nell
February 19th and 26th, 2026– Member/Member Tournament
Flight A
1st Place at 51 – Rich Gamble, Sam Yanes
2nd Place tie at 53 – Ben Boss, Bill Dalling
2nd Place tie at 53 – George Chrouser, Bob Strief
Flight B
1st Place at 51 -Roger Dillon, Gino Wincek
2nd Place at 53 – Joe Vitetta, Don Paulson
3rd Place tie at 55 – Joel Westphal, Ken Meidl
3rd Place tie at 55 – Larry Schmitt, Wayne Dixon
Submitted by Molly Brenza
The next meeting of the East Mesa AAUW branch will be on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 1:00PM in the Clubroom at Rec 1. This will be the last General Meeting of the year 2025-2026. Several interest groups will continue to meet throughout the summer months.
At the April General Meeting, there is a luncheon and business meeting with the installation of officers. Hopefully, a representative from the League of Women Voters to discuss the upcoming midterm elections in November at this meeting. Arrangements at this time are pending.
In October, the Branch will reconvene with the annual ice cream social with General Meetings for 2026-2027 starting Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
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 at 1PM. General meetings include social gathering as well as a presentation from a speaker on varied topics pertinent to women and education.
For membership information, please call Elaine Prom at 480-207-0655 or visit our website at: https://
https:/LWBilliardsClub.com
Larry Wolkowsky and Joe Fitzpatrick represented LW Billiards winning the East Valley League. SHOOT-OUT!
Larry Wolkowsky (3-X East Valley Champion & 2-X Top-shooter) shot six wins in the first round - seven wins in the second round (missing Top-shooter by one game) stated “it was great shooting that brought LW Billiards the win.” Joe Fitzpatrick (world-class at strategic & tactical billiards) shot seven wins in the first round - five wins in the second round (winning against the 2026 East Valley Top-shooter in round two). Larry from Regina, Saskatchewan and Joe from Boston, Massachusetts will face-off in this year’s Can-Am Billiards tournament. LW Billiards heralds these champions that once again win the East Valley League SHOOT-OUT for LW Billiards - two years running!
LW Billiards hosted the annual Good-Bye Party in March with anticipation of 140+ guests once again entertained by Rusty Nails! LW Billiards Beginner & Intermediate Training completed March 1 with guest appearances by Jolene Herum & Dan Kee - both participating in an 8-ball shootout available to view by members @ LWBilliardsClub.com/ training.
Join us for fun, billiards & entertainment, see below for events:
• Tuesday 9 ball - 1230p - $3.00 buy-in
• Thursday Ladies 1-15 8 ball900a - free
• Thursday 8 ball - 1230p - $3.00 buy-in
Buckels continue through March
Good Billiards is like Aging - the best is yet to come! (Robert Browning paraphrase)
Submitted by Lynette Magnuson
April showers bring May flowers and this year Easter too! Most of us will gather together with family, hunt for colorful Easter eggs with the kiddos, indulge in baskets full of peeps and chocolate bunnies, and share in a traditional ham dinner. But Easter, for Christians, holds a much more sacred tradition of remembering our Lord and Savior’s death and resurrection.
Jesus obediently went to the cross and took upon himself the sins of the world, my sins and your sins, “for all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God…” Rom 3:23. At the cross there were 2 others, one on his right and one on his left, one hurled insults at him and chose not to believe while the other one feared God and said to Jesus “remember me when you come into your kingdom.” Jesus replied “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Mark 23:43. Everyone has a choice in this life to believe in the one sent from God or not to believe. It is my hope and prayer that everyone believes in Jesus Christ, his death, and resurrection and is saved this Easter. Rom 10:9 “If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Leisure World Christian Fellowship Bible study is a nondenominational Christian Bible study group. We gather weekly to grow in our understanding of God’s word, to strengthen our walk, and to encourage one another. We are studying ‘30 Life Principles, a guide for growing in knowledge and understanding of God’ by Dr Charles Stanley. We meet every Thursday in the Rec 1 theater from 9:30-11:00 am and continue through April 2026 and there is plenty of time left so come and study with us.
If you are interested please contact Lynette Magnuson by email, ljhm3000@gmail.com, or call or text me at 903-316-2116.
We were beyond thrilled to present “allegedly” at three ‘sold out’ performances. A portion of our proceeds from ticket sales and all of those from the 50/50 will benefit
the magnificent work of The Leisure World Foundation… THANK YOU LEISURE WORLD!!!!!!
And yes, our somewhat normal sound glitches reappeared, especially at our Sunday and Monday shows. Just sayin’ it was a ‘hoot’ for us to do some improv and have all of you cheering us on and laughing with us!
ALL ARE WELCOME to our fun-loving family! So, if you are interested in any aspect of comedic theater, please join us at our final meeting of the season, Wednesday, April 15th at noon in the Rec 1 Club Room. For more information, contact our president, Kellini Walter at kellinisue@hotmail.com. We look forward to meeting you. And as we say, “Come for the funny, stay for the play!”
• Friday Night Surprise - 600p - All levels welcomewelcome new players - free
• Saturday 8 ball - 1230p - $3.00 buy-in
• Club 8 ball & 9 ball tournaments led by Gord
The Dakota Club is a place for Leisure World Residents with ties to North & South Dakota to get together for dinner and fellowship. We typically meet on the third Thursday of each month; November through April. This season we voted to support the New Hope Community Center by bringing donation items to the monthly dinners. The April dinner will be held on April 16, 2026. Watch emails and posts for the upcoming meeting dates, times, and locations. Dakota Club Officers are President, Maxine Beckwith; Vice-President, Kent Larsen; Secretary/ Treasurer, Kris Pillar. If you have any questions, please contact one of the officers. Our numbers can be found in the Leisure
World Directory; or email kristie.pillar@k12.nd.us with any questions.
Submitted by Jeanne Gardin, President Please mark your calendar and take note that the April meeting of the Democratic Club will be on Saturday, April 11th, at 1:00pm in the Hopi Room at Rec. 2. (The club normally meets on the second Wednesday of the month in the Card Room.) Our speaker will be Congressman Greg Stanton from Arizona’s 4th congressional district. He has been a Representative since 2018. He was previously Mayor of Phoenix from 2012 to 2018 and was on the Phoenix City Council from 2000 to 2009.
Be sure to arrive early to hear this very popular Congressman. Feel free to invite your friends and neighbors. All Democrats and like-minded people are welcome to attend our meetings. Our doors open at 12:30 for registration, socialization and purchase of 50/50 tickets. All Democrats, Independents and likeminded people are invited to attend.
Submitted by Shelly Begel
Investment Club of Leisure World (aka San Tan Investment Club) is a closed end mutual fund. It consists of blue chips and other stocks (with average annualized gains around 15%).
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, and is required 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 will meet the third Thursday in April, on the 16th, at 1:00 p.m., for between 1 and 2 hours, in the Internet Oasis Room, which is in Rec 1. You are welcome to join us. If you cannot attend a meeting in person, you can join us virtually. For more information contact our president, Tim Kula, (425) 941-1397. You can call or text Tim for more information. You can also just come to our meeting on April 16th
(Aka: Green Bananas)
Submitted by: Frank Jacoby Manor 1540
Our current club members have, on average, enjoyed a 14% compound annual return over the duration of their memberships. Non-members, new members, beginners and seasoned investors are always welcome guests at our meetings.
Are you making the right moves for your retirement? Learn about investing, discuss market conditions, discover ideas for your retirement portfolio, bounce ideas/tips off others, 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 in the theater and via Zoom the second Wednesday of each month October through May and additionally as needed over the summer.
Our next meeting will be held in the Theater and
via Zoom Wednesday 4/8//26, 1PM MST Please contact Frank Jacoby (frankjacoby4@gmail.com) or 248-535-5456 for more information
Our April meeting will focus on market conditions, stock analysis techniques, our portfolio and stock tips presented by members.
The next meeting of the Leisure World PEO group is planned for Friday, April 3, 2026, in the Club Room. The schedule is a bit different this month; Meeting at 10:00 a.m., followed by an end of the year luncheon. Hostesses are Eunice Ketterling, Isla Law and Vivian Dunbar. More information on the luncheon will be provided via email.
Our April D’Vine Book Club will be April 22, 2026, at Marta Troutman’s house (Manor 2064) at 3:30 p.m. Our book will be The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick. Marta Troutman will lead the discussion. If you can, join us for our April lunch bunch, Tuesday April 21, at 11:30 a.m. in the Leisure World Cafe.
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.
Great to see everyone and thank you for making this season so successful!
Watch LW Facebook site, LW Proboards posts and the Recreation Blast for updates on next seasons events, and have a great summer!
Linda Pratt -President 612-715-3171
Julie Shaughnessy -VP 612-867-6750
by Lynette Waltemath, Doris Hoel Mix and Mingle is a new club designed to bring people together in a fun and welcoming environment. With a focus on inclusion, Mix and Mingle will encourage participation from individuals of all ages and backgrounds who are looking to expand their social circles and share memorable experiences with new and old friends.
The April M&M events are:
Coffee on the Courtyard – Rec 1 – every Saturday, beginning at 8:30 (NO coffee on April 4th, Easter weekend) – Everyone is welcome to stop by and enjoy a cup of fresh-brewed coffee, while visiting with friends!
voice (or just your enthusiasm)!
Monthly Birthday Bash – Rec 3 - Friday, April 17
- 5:30 – 8:30 – We will honor residents with April birthdays. If you don’t have a birthday in April, come out and celebrate with those that do!!
• 5:30 – 6:30 – Pizza and salad by Barro’s – cost is $10 at the door; Reservations required by April 10. RSVP to Rocky Boss at lwbirthday.bash26@gmail.com
• 6:30 – 8:30 – BYOB No food, no cost and no reservations required. Just come and celebrate!
Wine & Cheese Tasting – Promenade, Rec 1 Thursday, April 30 – 5:00 – 7:00 – Bring a half pound of your favorite gourmet cheese to share. The cost will be $5 per person at the door to cover the cost of wine and assorted crackers.
Reservations required by April 23. RSVP to Lynette at lwmixandmingle@gmail.com
If you have an idea for an activity or event that you’d like to see M&M organize, let us know!
We hope to see you at a Mix & Mingle event!
by Diane Andersen
Our motto is “Educate, Encourage and Inspire.”
This month’s event will take place on Monday, April 20, 2026, at 7:00 pm in the Recreation 2 Hopi/Pima Ballroom.
Our guest speakers will be Tom Horne candidate and current Superintendent of Public Instruction, Greg Roberg, candidate for Arizona Attorney General, Ocean Rasso a dynamic teenager. Also, come to meet and speak to the candidates who will be on your Primary Ballot.
The Primary Election will take place on July 21, 2026.
Are you new to Arizona or have moved within the state and would like to update your voter registration? Please call the number below.
In the event you are conservative minded and would like to become politically active you are encouraged to contact Diane Andersen at (480)395-5515 or azpatriot13@gmail.com for more information.
April 13 is the date. Rec 1 ballroom is the place. 5:30 is the time to meet your fellow RV travelers. We will again meet Monday, April 13 for our last meeting of the season to plan our April Round Up and enjoy memories of our March trip to the Lakes of St David,
the sites and sounds of the area we have chosen to visit. Parks, museums, thrift shops, vineyards, breweries, mine tours, farm tours, trolley tours, live music shows, even shootouts. Our motto: Have RV / Will Travel. If you’re an RV owner and even if you would enjoy traveling with as an RWOW (Rover WithOut Wheels) call Kent Larson 605-359-5914 or Mary Kay Evans 920-912-4316. We will be happy to bring you up to speed on the trips we’ve enjoyed. Remember: Monday, April 13, rec 1 ballroom, 5:30 for a great supper and details of upcoming trips.
SOLO APRIL Calendar 2026
• Wednesday, April 1, HAPPY APRIL FOOL’S DAY
• Friday, April 3, Dinner, Cafe, Rec. 2, 4:30
• Sunday, April 5, HAPPY EASTER
• Tuesday, April 7, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, April 8, Tempe Historical Lecture 11:30 free
• Tuesday, April 14, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30
• Thursday, April 16, POTLUCK, Rec. 1, Club Room, 5pm, bring a dish to share, $3. for expenses, **Theme Spring
• Tuesday, April 21, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, April 22, OOW at Uncle Bears Grill, 1110 S. Greenfield Carpool Rec. 2, 11:45 **
• Tuesday,April 28, Solo Breakfast, Cafe, Rec. 2, 7:30 am
**means reservations are needed, Solo@thespearmans or call/text Barbara Peters at 309-215-7203 or bapeters56@gmail.com
Submitted by Carolin Lowy
Ladies have you ever played billiards? Or would you like to try to play?
Then Thursday mornings come on by at 8.30 a.m. and join us for ninety minutes of fun.
All that is missing is YOU. We play for fun and as with anything practice is a big help.
The Leisure World Billiard room has everything needed including a variety of cue sticks.
We meet throughout the year and as the air conditioning continues to function, we enjoy a cool place to meet. Need to know more give me a call: Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626.
4:00 p.m
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Pottery Class (POT)
9:00 a.m. Twiddlers (FA)
9:00 a.m. Shuffleboard (SHB)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
11:30 a.m. Pop Country (HOPI)
12:00 p.m. Mah Jongg Madness (LC)
12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)
1:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)
1:00 p.m. Swim Exercise (P)
6:00 p.m. Scrabble (LC)
TUESDAY
8:00 a.m. Table Tennis (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
9:00 a.m. Ceramics (CER/SG)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
10:00 a.m. Big Band (HOPI)
12:30 p.m. Pinochle (QCR)
12:30 p.m. 9 ball (B)
12:30 p.m. ACBL Bridge (CLR)
1:00 p.m. Hand and Foot (LC)
2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)
3:30 p.m. Music Makers (MR)
6:00 p.m Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)
6:30 p.m. Mens Poker (QC)
7:00 p.m. Mah Jong (LC)
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)
8:00 a.m. Wednesday Coffee (CLR)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)
9:00 a.m. Glass Program (CER/SG)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG)
9:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (POT)
9:00 a.m. Shuffleboard (SHB)
10:00 a.m. Computer Lab Open (CC)
12:00 p.m. Happy Ladies Bridge (APA)
12:00 p.m. Pottery Open Studio (POT)
1:00 p.m. Cribbage (QCR)
6:00 p.m. Texas Hold’em (QCR)
6:00 p.m. Dealer’s Choice Poker (NAV)
6:00 p.m. 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. Swim Exercise (P)
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)
12:30 p.m. 8ball tournament (B)
1:00 p.m. Bridge Thurs Ladies (LC)
1:00 p.m. Dealers Choice Poker (NAV)
1:00 p.m. Mah Jongg (APA)
2:00 p.m. Water Volleyball (P)
4:00 p.m. Chess (LC)
6:00 p.m. Hand and Foot - Samba (LC)
6:30 p.m. Party Bridge (APA)
6:30 p.m. Mens Poker (QC)
FRIDAY
7:00 a.m. Early Bird Stretch (BR)
8:00 a.m. Porcelain Painting (CER/SG)
8:00 a.m. Yoga (PIMA)
9:00 a.m. Lawn Bowls Play (LBG) 9:00 a.m. Swim Exercise (P)
9:00 a.m. Knitters & Crocheters (FA) 9:00 a.m. Open Studio (AS)
9:00
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.
Learn to Play Bridge (CLR) Contact: Barbara Rees, 480309-9039 . Lessons: Jan & Feb 2026 Beginner, Intermediate. Advanced.
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: Burnetta fburnetta@gmail. com Thursday, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Oct – May.
Dealer’s Choice (NAV) Contact: Jim Munkwitz, 803-7471677 . Tuesday & Wednesday 6:00 p.m., and Thurs 1:00 pm. Year round.
Mens Poker (QC) Contact: Philip Baird, 480-840-1723 Queen Card Room, Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30 p.m. Texas Hold’ Em (QCR) Contact: Randy Rickert, 602524-2503 . Monday, 1:00 p.m. & Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. Saturday 1:00 p.m. Year-round
Bunco (CLR) Contact: Laura Krever, 310-916-8105 or Dana Bourque, 602-757-4348 . 1st Tuesday, 6:30 p.m. Yearround.
Cribbage (QCR) Contact Don Newman, 402-578-2743 Wednesday and Friday, 1:00 p.m. Year-round.
Euchre (APA) Contact Ted Jackson, 518-248-2052 Tuesday, 6:45 p.m. Oct – April.
Samba (LC) Kathy Murray, kmurrayy6694@gmail.com. Every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 6:15 pm. Yearround.
Pegs& Jokers (LC) Kathy Murray, kmurrayy6694@gmail. com. Every Friday, 6:30 pm. Year-round.
Hand and Foot Progressive: (LC) Contact: Lillian Carlson, 480-290-9396 . Tuesday, 1:00 p.m. Year-round.
Hand and Foot: Samba (LC) Contact:Kathy Murray, kmurrayy6694@gmail.com Wednesday and Thursday, 6:00 p.m. Year-round.
Mah Jongg Madness (LC) Contact: Jan Biddle, 303-8817808. Monday, 12:00 p.m. Year-round. Mah Jongg (APA) Contact: Neesa Galanti, 206-356-2727. Tuesday 7:00 pm and Thursday 1:00 p.m. Year-round.
Pinochle (QCR) Contact: Jackie Anderson, 480-985-8503 . 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.
Play is every Friday night at 7:00 p.m. On-sets are 3 for $3; 6 for $6; and 9 for $9. Refreshments are served at the break. Water, ice, lemonade, coffee, popcorn, and pretzels. Play starts promptly at 7:00 p.m. Players may arrive at 6:00 p.m. to purchase on-sets.
LW Bingo is for Residents and their guests 18 years of age and older. Our bingo games are for recreational play and not open to the public. The State does not allow alcohol to be present or consumed during our recreational Bingo games.
Time: Doors open at 6:00 p.m. Game starts at 7:00 p.m.
Place: Rec. 1 Ballroom
Bunco meets the 1st Tuesday of the month in the Club Room at Rec 1, all year round. It’s a very easy game to learn, so if you haven’t played before, come and try it. We start promptly at 6:30 pm, so please be there by 6:15 pm. Doors open at 6:00 pm. Our next game will be on Tuesday, April 7th. Please wear your name tag if you have one.
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 310-916-8105 or Dana Bourque at 602-757-4348.
The chess club meets every Thursday at 4pm in the Lakeside building (near the lawn bowling). Meet new friends and enjoy a friendly game of chess. Most of us have rediscovered the joy of the game after having not played since high school. There are no Bobby Fishers here, but we do enjoy spirited games.
All levels are welcome, including beginners who wish to learn about the game. The emphasis is on fun and learning. Please join us.
For more information contact: Matthew Menenberg Manor 2171 602-334-7597 Mattmenenberg@gmail.com
Submitted by Carolin Lowy
The Leisure World Scrabble meets throughout the year every Monday evening at 6.00 p.m.
Where? The Lakeside Club House, Rec.1.
Residents and their guests who enjoy spelling games have not only Scrabble, but an equally challenging game called Upwords to choose from. The Club has everything on hand including game boards, official dictionaries and word lists to help.
We welcome one and all, so come on over.
Carolin Lowy, 480-641-4626.
Ballroom Dance Classes - Contact: Bill Goss, 480275-4647
Pop Country Line Dance Contact: Susan Tuttle, 602329-2213.
Line Dancing - Sundays 1:30p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Music Makers - Tuesday afternoons in the Rec. 2 Music Room from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. 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.
Submitted John Andrews
The Leisure World Big Band completed a very successful season this year thanks to the Friends of the Big Band. Through them, we have been able to make good friends and see excellent dancers. We look forward to starting next season with several new tunes beginning Tuesday, October 6th, 2026, at 10:00 - 12:00 AM at Rec.2. Our dances are scheduled for Sunday, December 6, 2026, and Sunday, March 7, 2027, both beginning at 2:00 PM at Rec. 2. We hope you all have a very happy, healthy and prosperous summer. For more information, contact John Andrews, phone 660-5412588. Manor 1465
THANK YOU to our loyal members and guests for another terrific Casual-Aires season. We very much appreciate your support and hope you enjoyed our events as much as we did sponsoring them. We wrapped up our 2025-2026 season on March 7th with the western themed musical selections of "WHISKEY ROSE”. Everyone had a great time dancing and listening to the many memorable hits from this talented band. It was a fitting culmination to our 25th anniversary season.
We will soon be announcing our event dates and entertainers for next year. Many of your favorite bands will be returning as we continue to feature the best musical groups in the Valley.
Now is the time to renew or inquire about membership for next season. Bill and Anne Daley can answer your membership questions via email at casualairesmembership@gmail.com or phone (602) 705-5006.
Membership applications and payments may be mailed to Cindy Kearns at Leisure World manor #2023. We hope you enjoy the rest of this lovely spring weather and wish you safe travel wherever your summer plans take you. We look forward to welcoming you back for another fun Casual-Aires season.
Submitted by Joyce Loland
At the end of March, the Leisure World Cloggers said
“Slán go fóill” (Bye for now) to winter clogging friends at a farewell gathering at BJ’s Restaurant. With a chance to chat more than in class, there was lots of talk about clogging highlights, plans for summer vacations, and clogging options until people return to Leisure World in the fall.
Classes continue even without winter visitors at the regular time (11:45—2:45) every Friday throughout the summer, meeting in the air-conditioned classroom next to the Fitness Center. Instructors Cathy Martin and Dan Rowan start with Beginner dances at 11:45 and move progressively to Intermediate and Intermediate Plus dances in the last hour. Cost is $35 per month or $5 per hour on a drop-in basis. If you are a beginner, your first class is free! No special shoes are needed to get started. You can wait until you are ready to commit to continuing the class to get clogging shoes.
Not only will you get physical and mental exercise by clogging, you will be joining a very congenial and supportive group. There is fun even in taking dancing seriously!
We held our final performance of the season on Monday, March 16th. Thanks to all who showed up to listen and show your support! We’re already planning next year’s events.
We had our wind-up potluck at the end of the month and will now be taking the summer off. Our snowbirds will be returning north in April, hopefully to return in the fall!
Desert Belles are a group of women who love to get together and sing in harmony. We meet every Monday and will be happy to welcome new members in October. If you have any questions, please contact Barb Carney at casey2duffy@gmail.com or call 480-650-9551.
“Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without.” Confucius
“Thank You” to all who attended our spring concert, “ONE SONG.” We hope that our music not only brought back treasured memories from the past but also inspired you to live more joyfully in the present and with renewed hope for the future.
We’ll be on ‘summer break’ until early October when rehearsals begin for our December holiday concert. More information will be available in August, but if you are interested now in learning more, please contact our director, Donna Mahan, at 217-720-7990 or donnalwmc@gmail.com.
MSDC Board extends a special thanks to it’s membership, guests and all those volunteers who helped make the ‘25-’26 season very successful. Your support has been invaluable in making LW’s own MSDC the premier dance club in the Valley.
Dates for ’26-’27 dances are: 11.14.2026, 1.23.2027, 2.27.2027, 3.27.2027. Next season’s membership fee is $350/per couple. Dues are payable now. Guest couple fee is $120/couple.
The General Membership Meeting held 3.4.2026 successfully elected new Board Members to replace those retiring. Going forward: President: Diane Wells; VP: Shannon Carson; Membership: Dean Meier, Treasurer: Faye Williams; Secy: Peggy Larson. Decorations chair and 2 MAL positions remain to be filled pending further discussion. Wayne Barker will continue as Music chair and Beth Borel will continue as Food chair.
Volunteers are needed to sustain the Club. Contact Jerry or Joy for suitable options. Visit the MSDC website: https://moonlightserenade. yolasite.com.
For further information contact: joyk3048@gmail. com; or Jerry:jerrymundell45@gmail.com
Submitted by Mary Smith
LW Music Makers had a wonderful season performing for the Christmas sing-along and the Spring Sing-along on the Promenade.
We play a variety of instruments: piano, guitars, saxophone, melodicas, harmonicas, percussion instruments, and we have enjoyed violins, flutes, and clarinets in our group.
If you are interested in joining our group, we invite you to attend our practice sessions, held every Tuesday at 3:30 p.m. in the Music Room, located in Rec 2. We play from a diverse collection of songs and are always open to new additions. Playing with a group is a fun and uplifting experience for everyone involved.
For our winter visitors, please consider bringing your instrument next year to join us. We welcome all skill levels, and it doesn’t take long to feel right at home with our group.
For more information, contact Mary Smith at 206349-4546 or 480-288-1423.
Best regards, Mary Smith
Submitted by Kaye West
While the usual Mesa round dance season ends each March, Doug and Leslie Dodge may continue classes in April. Find details at rounddancing.azphx.com
Besides the usual generous options of learning new routines and practicing them at party dances for all levels of dancers, March held a successful Mesa Magic Weekend where newer dancers learned routines in Foxtrot, Tango, Hesitation Canter Waltz, and TwoStep/Hustle. The All-Cuer Fun Dance provided fellowship for dancers at levels 2-6 to dance to eight different cuers and thank them for their service!
Dance opportunities abound for summer travels. Most prominently is the ICBDA convention in St. George, UTAH (July 8-11). New routines and programmed dancing will be offered in three halls (for beginning, intermediate, and advanced dancers). Find details and opportunities at https://www.icbda.com/dance-events/ and https://roundalab.org/upcoming-events-tableview-four/
April 29 is International Dance Day (see article
Submitted by Susan Strainis
Early Bird Stretch Club is a low impact aerobics and stretch exercise class that has been in existence for 30 years. It is a drop-in class that meets every Monday/ Wednesday/Friday morning at 6:55AM for an hour in the Rec.1 Ballroom.
We have a wonderful group of residents who enjoy exercise plus socialization. Come try us out, you will not be disappointed, and there is no cost. JOIN US!!!
Wednesday, April 1st will be the last meeting for this winter-spring season. NO FOOLIN’!
So, we cordially invite all interested parties to attend. It is held in the Theater Room at Recreation Bldg. #1 at 7 p.m. Please plan to attend and members are reminded to please bring 3 food items for donation to a local food bank.
All events are held at the Rio Salado Sportsman Club, Usery Mountain Shooting Range, 3960 Usery Pass Rd., Mesa, Arizona.
SPORTING CLAYS:
Thursdays: April 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th. Meet at the RSSC Shotgun parking lot at 6:45 a.m. Ready to Shoot by 7:00 a.m.
RIMFIRE PISTOL:
Wednesday, April 8th. Meet at RSSC Pistol Bay #2. from 7-11 a.m.
**PRACTICAL PISTOL: Friday, April 24th Meet at RSSC Pistol Bay #2 at 7 a.m.
**As of submission to the newspaper for April edition. May be changed to Wednesday, April 22nd, same place and time. Please watch for email update or check with another club member if any questions regarding correct day and time.
STRICLY SOCIAL:
Come to dine with us on Monday, April 27th. We meet for lunch at 11:30 at B.J.’s Restaurant, 6622 Superstition Springs Blvd., Mesa. Alone or with your spouse, all are invited.
If any questions, please contact Keith Hepler at kvhepler@gmail.com.
Congratulations to these Leisure World Pickleball Club members who won medals in the 230-player Leisure World Annual Pickleball Tournament in February:
Men’s Doubles: Steve Kernagis and partner, 3.0 (5064); Steve Cohen and Patrick Sobolik (son of Jack and Galene Sobolik), 3.5 (50-64).
Women’s Doubles: Deb DeVault and Sheri Kirkpatrick, 3.0 (50-62); Kathleen Kelnhofer and Jane Kuhlman, 3.5 (65+).
Mixed Doubles: Cindy Stockwell and David Wang (son of Joe Wang), 3.0 (50-64); Jane Kuhlman and Daniel Kurtz, 3.0 (65+); Kathleen Kelnhofer and Butch Douthit, 3.5 (65+).
SILVER
Men’s Doubles: Glenn Martin and David Wang (son of Joe Wang), 3.0 (50-64); Ty and Tony Montano, 3.0 (65+); Daryl Eastridge and Mike Rozema, 4.0 (64+).
Women’s Doubles: Barbara Busak and Shelly Christy, 3.0 (50-62); Cindy Stockwell and June Thomas, 3.0 (63+) .
Mixed Doubles: Sheri Kirkpatrick and Glenn Martin, 3.0 (50-64).
BRONZE
Men’s Doubles: Ken Fox and Dan Jorgenson, 3.0 (65+); Doug Barham and partner, 4.0 (64+).
Mixed Doubles: Deb DeVault and Don Nicholes, 3.0 (65+).
Art Assoc. – Contact: Monica Beatrice 480-685-0724
Open Studio: Friday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Jewelry and Lapidary (LAP) Contact: Dan Coulombe 479715-5826.
Photography Club (AS) Contact: Bob Bennett, 480-250-7127
Card Making/ Rubber Stamping (CER/SG) Contact: Syd Dyck 913-226-8699 or Elena Reylek 305-761-4347 3rd Thursday 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
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
Submitted by Elaine Murphy
The jewelry and lapidary club classroom and shop are open from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. We offer classes in beading, casting, chain maille, dichroic glass, lapidary, and faceting. We are also offering a new introductory class in making paper earrings. Come into the shop to see examples of these products. The cost of each class is determined by the instructor. We supply the necessary tools and supplies required for your project.
Open to all residents who do hand sewing. 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.
Ceramics (CER/SG) CERAMICS CLUB
No skills, low skills, or higher skills come one, come all! We have several supplies and pieces to get you started .Come on in and get those inner creative juices running.
Total relaxation.
Come join us or take a look on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9:30 a.m. –11:30 a.m.
All of the jewelry in our display case is for sale and has been hand crafted by members of the club. Come take a look and get inspired!
The next general meeting will take place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 7 pm in the jewelry/lapidary club. All interested residents are invited to join us.
Submitted by Linda Faber
The LW Quilters would like to thank everyone who attended the LW Only Pre-sale on March 10th and the
Call: Linda Derback (President) at 303-913-2066 or Cheryl Lamers (VP) at 973-262-1898.
Porcelain Painting (POT) Contact: Edie Pearcy, 480-7340685 or Ginger Merkle, 303-988-6420. No teacher. No 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 Arts (CER/SG) Contact: Gail Bowers 480-577-6677. Open Studio: Monday & Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Ongoing Classes for new artists
Arts and Craft Fair on the 14th. It was wonderful seeing all the happy faces as you purchased our products!
April is another busy month for the quilters. On April 2nd and 9th, we will be sewing bags to give foster children to carry their belongings from one home to another. Each bag will be sewed with a little extra love and prayers for the children’s futures.
A lesson on making a fabric collage is on April 16th. Ladies, this is another super-creative way to use your fabric stash. If you are like me, I am so creative (NOT) that, hopefully, I can learn how to “turn on” that side of my brain!
On April 9th and 16th, you will be given a list of what to bring for the April 23rd project. This will be another new endeavor for the club. It’s not as challenging as many things we have been making lately. However, it is something very useful.
Our usual Sew and Tell will take place on April 30th. Ladies, please try to finish all those UFOs (UnFinished Objects), WIPs (Works in Progress), PIGS (Projects in Grocery Sacks), and PHD (Projects Half Done), and share them with the group that day.
Our group is open to quilters of all abilities, and we enjoy meeting new ladies (and gents, if they are interested). We also accept donations of fabric!
Questions: Call Judy Kauth (757-651-5648) or Linda Faber (480-821-0952)
Submitted by Carolin Lowy
Monday and Friday mornings from 9-11 throughout the year a dedicated group of people gather in the Fiber Arts
Studio to create items for gifts and charity. Pleasant conversations are enjoyed by one and all.
Need help with knitting, crocheting or hand sewing? We are a group of experienced folk who will offer assistance as needed.
The closets have a lot of donated supplies to choose from, hooks, needles, patterns, thread, yarn and the list goes on. We also lunch at the cafe on Fridays and monthly outings to celebrate birthdays. Everyone is welcome to join us. We currently are well on the way with “ Warm Up America” donations to reach 11,000 pieces o er the Pat eight years.
Stop by and visit! Carolin Lowy: 480-641-4626.
By Kaye West
Dancers often want to know how to lead their partner so that they can move harmoniously as one unit. The first secret is an effective dance frame which is the responsibility of both the Lead and the Follow. The second secret is using contra body alignment to take steps Outside Partner (in “Banjo”) or Partner Outside (in “Sidecar”).
While the frame used for Closed Position in social dancing is often very relaxed and variable, the more intricate figures available in round dancing are improved with attention to some details for effective connections with the partner. The closed dance frame used in standard/smooth rhythms (Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, and Viennese Waltz) are described here. The frame used in international or American style Tango is somewhat different, as is the frame in Latin dances (Cha Cha, Rumba, and Swing/Jive), and different yet are frames in Argentine Tango and Paso Doble!
Closed Dance Frame
The Closed dance frame refers to how dancers position various parts of their bodies so that they have several contact points and to facilitate their moving readily together.
(1) They stand facing each other so that their right foot points between partner’s feet so that they can take generous steps forward or back without fear of stepping on the partner’s toes! This places the Lead’s “right-side” and Follow’s “right side” adjacent to each other. “Side” means aligned with a man’s suspender or a lady’s bra strap, not the true side which separates the front of the body from the back.
Why? The large steps that the Lead takes are much more readable for the Follower than shorter steps. And to perform moves like a right-face pivot, dancers need to have a pivot point as similar as possible, which means that the dancer moving forward must place the heel of the right foot as close as possible to the ball of partner’s left foot. Typically, a pivot turns one-half turn, so a shorter step between partner’s feet does not have a common pivot point and generally cannot turn that far.
(2) Their “lead” hands (Lead’s left and Follow’s right) are placed out to their side about at eye level of the shorter dancer (or a height which is mutually satisfactory) and with elbows away from their bodies at their sides and slightly in front of their body (never extending behind their back).
The Lead’s hand slants so that the fingers point diagonally up and away from the body with the palm side up and also slanted back slightly to welcome the Follow to place her palm onto his so that her fingers are to the right of his thumb. After they connect, they adjust their palms so both are vertical (and midway between their bodies) and the fingers curl around the partner’s hand and the thumbs adjust as desired (to be adjacent or crossed) to make the joined hands compact with slight mutual pressure toward the partner, so that as the Lead moves, the Follow moves herself as well. There may be no contact in the center of their palms.
This handhold is recommended because it lends itself readily to adjust the hands (flatten them) and move them so that hands can swivel against each other to change to a different position or to lead turns.
(3) The Lead places his right arm so that (if he were wearing a long-sleeved shirt) his “cuff” (from his wrist and up his arm an inch or so) is directly beneath the partner’s left shoulder joint (her armpit), and he engages a slight upward pressure (only enough for a good connection; not enough to disturb her arm). His hand likely extends approximately to her shoulder blade (where dancers are sometimes instructed to place the hand), but this is incidental!
Simply placing his right hand on her shoulder blade often does not engage stabilizing her shoulder joint as described. A slightly-curved hand on a slightly-curved shoulder blade without the connection at the cuff-armpit easily slips and slides so cannot lead effectively. What is needed is a stabilizing contact.
To adjust to taller or shorter partners, the Lead keeps his elbow at the same elevation and changes the angle at his elbow to raise or lower only his lower arm (from elbow to wrist).
(4) The Follow then places her left hand on the Lead’s upper right arm, ideally so that her thumb rests in the indention of his bicep muscle at the front of his arm and fingers extend behind his arm. She keeps her left elbow at the same elevation above the floor as elbows on the other side of their bodies. Even if the Lead drops his elbow, she should keep hers even with their other elbows. The image at this side of their bodies is to have “one elbow” showing: the Follow’s. She is further to the left than the Lead, so her elbow is more prominent.
If the Follow places her left hand before the Lead places his right wrist, he may not be able to place it appropriately. She needs to wait.
Having a contact point with her thumb on one side of his upper arm and her fingers on the other allows the Follow to readily respond when he moves or turns his body.
Placing her arm in this fashion engages not only a second contact point at this side (first: his wrist/ her armpit, and second: her left hand and his right upper arm) but also a third: her upper left arm generally connects to his lower right arm. Three contact points is very strong and greatly facilitates leading.
The Follow is responsible for keeping her own arm elevated and to have only slight pressure on the Lead’s arm. When a Follow places too much weight on the Lead’s arm, she weighs his arm down so it tires readily and he cannot keep his elbow elevated. She should also avoid squeezing his arm or holding it too tightly.
(5) Each dancer provides half of the dance frame which extends from one’s hand/arm through one’s elbow, through one’s back, through the other elbow, to the other arm/hand, and the two halves connect as described above. As they dance, even changing position from Closed Position to Banjo or Sidecar, this frame remains largely unchanged. In other words, the angles at their shoulders, elbows, and wrists remain stable. Often this is described as having “tone” in the arms. The entire frame of the upper bodies turn as a single unit. Moving the body in this way effectively allows both partners to move appropriately.
Imagine the dance frame to be like a hula hoop. The frame continues to be rounded so when one part turns, the entire structure turns without bending or breaking. Therefore, as the Lead moves his body, his upper body remains essentially unchanged and the Follow can move with him because of this stable frame.
(6) Very skillful dancers are able to achieve yet another contact point: those “right sides.” Sometimes they touch at the ribcage and sometimes they connect at hip level, depending on what is being danced. This contact point is facilitated by dancers pushing the lower ribcage forward (which also elevates it slightly) so the front of the body is as “flat” as possible so it can connect with the partner. This is especially true for ladies so they can “flatten” their normal “hour-glass” figure. The tilt forward of the bottom of their ribcage makes their shoulders and hips move further back and results in their body having a “banana shape.” Having this additional contact point makes it even more easy to lead because dancers move as a single unit instead of two people dancing in tandem. Additional techniques are learned when this contact is added in advanced dancing.
There are times in changing dance position from Closed Position to Banjo when the Lead (inappropriately) allows the angle at his right shoulder to increase so that his right elbow protrudes behind his body (Oops! That is a no-no) and his left elbow has rotated to be in front of his body (the angle at his left shoulder decreases), thinking that he has “kept his arms steady” so his “frame” is “unchanged.” However, when this occurs, he may be keeping his elbow and wrist stable, but he is collapsing the dance frame by not maintaining nearlyunchanged angles also at the shoulder joints. The shape of the frame is no longer rounded. This makes the Follow also distort her part of the dance frame. Not only is this uncomfortable, but also it does not provide for an effective lead. This means he has not yet learned the second secret: using contra body alignment.
Just what is meant by “contra body”? It means that the upper body (think shoulders) and the lower body (think hips) are out of their neutral alignment. If there were an imaginary pole extending horizontally through one’s shoulders and another extending horizontally through one’s hips, when the poles are in perfect alignment, one directly above the other, the body would be in a “neutral” position. When not perfectly aligned, they are in “contra body,” so they are in contra body much more than they are in a neutral posture.
When one walks normally, the upper body can remain stable but the hips move forward as a leg moves forward (there is a slight twist at the waist) since the bones in the upper legs are connected to the hip bone. The twisting is particularly apparent in power walking. Some may not have recognized it, but in successive walking the body moves into “contra body” alignment as one steps, then only momentarily is in neutral, and then again it moves into “contra body” alignment with the other hip, etc. So, the body is familiar with moving in contra body. Possibly, however, dancers have not applied it to their dancing.
When a dancer wishes to step Outside Partner (so the right foot would be on the outside of the partner’s right foot instead of being between the partner’s feet) the new path would be on a diagonal from the original path, and the body wants the hips to be situated so that the legs can move as normally as possible forward or back (they move like blades of scissors opening or closing).
So, the hips rotate about 1/8-turn left-face as the Lead’s left leg steps forward (still using two tracks) so the legs can walk as normally as possible. Simultaneously as the body moves forward, the shoulders (hence the entire dance frame) rotates about 1/8-turn right-face so the upper body continues to face partner, and the dance frame remains essentially unchanged! This is a preparatory step so that the Lead can take the next step forward with the right foot outside partner’s right foot (in Banjo Position with feet using the same track). Each dancer’s upper body is centered approximately above their right hip during this step. Similar alternating action of tracks occurs with successive steps in Banjo.
Similar use of contra body action is used when moving to Sidecar Position (Partner Outside). This is a much harder position to achieve because feet must move further than when moving to Banjo, because the left foot (which was outside the partner’s right foot) must end so it is outside the partner’s left foot! Also, the right side of the Lead and the left side of the Follow has less flexibility than the other side because they are more closely connected on that side, so it is a “shorter side.” Consequently, it is not used very much in dancing when bodies are connected, but when used essentially dancers’ left “sides” connect.
Moving the body with appropriate frame and contra body action allows the dancers to move harmoniously and comfortably, which enhances leading and dancing pleasure!
By Kaye West
According to an article on Wikipedia ( https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ national_dances) over one hundred-thirty countries have named a national dance. Out of 195 countries, that represents twothirds of the world’s countries consider dance important. And perhaps because it is so popular, and there are so many variations of dance, arts groups have created the International Dance Day, to be celebrated annually on April 29!
The United States does not have a national dance (yet), but we do have a National Dance Day which is celebrated on the third Saturday in September. It was created in 2010 by the co-creator of So You Think You Can Dance (Nigel Lythgoe) in partnership with Eleanor Holmes Norton (U.S. Congressional Representative of the District of Columbia). The purpose of this day is to “express support for dance as a form of valuable exercise and of artistic expression.”
There has been a concerted effort for fifty years to create square dancing as the national folk dance, and Public Law 97188 (passed on June 1, 1982) designated square dance as the national folk dance of the United States for 1982 and 1983. The rationale included that it is deserving of this honor because “it…
•… has been a popular tradition in America since early colonial days,
•… has attained a revered status as part of the folklore of this country,
•… is a joyful expression of the vibrant spirit of the people of the United States,
•… display[s]… etiquette among men and women,
•… is a traditional form of family recreation which symbolizes … the unity of the family, [and]
•… epitomizes democracy because it dissolves arbitrary social distinctions.”
Argentine Tango x Argentina Influenced by African, European, & indigenous music & dance styles
Bolero x Spain & Cuba Late 18th century Spanish influence with AfroCuban rhythms
Cha Cha x x Cuba African & Hispanic influence; evolved from Mambo
East Coast Swing x USA Evolved from Lindy Hop created by Black Americans
Foxtrot x x USA Jazz influences (from One-Step & Two-Step) popularized by Harry Fox (Vaudeville -1914)
Hesitation Canter Waltz x USA Introduced by Vernon & Irene Castle (1910 Vaudeville)
Hustle x USA Puerto Rican teenagers - NY 1970s
Jive x USA Stylized by British from swing GIs brought to Europe in WWII
Mambo x Cuba 1930s (African & Jazz influence)
Merengue x Dominican Republic Influenced by African and European rhythms
Paso Doble x Europe French King commissioned to imitate a Spanish bullfight
Quickstep x USA 1920s – combined Charleston, shag Peabody, and one-step; standardized by British in 1927
Rumba x x Cuba African & Hispanic influence
Salsa x USA 1960s – NY using salsa music & influences from mambo, swing, hustle, and tap
Samba x x Brazil Influenced by African rhythms & dances brought by enslaved people
Single Swing x USA 1920s-30s in Harlem influenced by African Americans & Jazz music
Slow (Nightclub) Two Step x USA Originated by Buddy Schwimmer in mid 1960s
Tango x x ArgentinaUruguay Also influences from Cuba; migrated to Europe in early 20 th century; codified by British in 1922
Two-Step x USA Collected by Lloyd Shaw from folks around the U.S.in mid-1900s
Viennese Waltz x x Austria Popularized in late 1700s
Waltz x x Europe Evolved from Austrian/Bavarian peasant dances by mid-1700s
Some objected to a more permanent designation because “square dancing” was “not sufficiently representative” of United States citizens since much of square dance history and legacy originates in European countries. Thus, advocates expanded the definition to include “squares, rounds, contras, clogging, line, and heritage dances.” With the expanded definition, H. J. Resolution 180 was passed by Congress in 1990 (https://www.congress.gov/bill/101st-congress/house-jointresolution/180/text).
West Coast Swing x USA Evolved in 1940s from Lindy Hop, created by Black Americans to Jazz music
everyone to celebrate April 29 as an important day:
• Participate in local dance events or workshops to engage with the community.
• Share your favorite dance videos on social media using the hashtag #InternationalDanceDay.
• Organize a flash mob or group dance in a public space to spread joy.
• Explore different dance styles by taking online classes or tutorials.
• Support local dance companies or schools by attending performances or donating.
The advocating organization, United Square Dancers of America (USDA), by their Resolution 25 in 2002, added yet another element of rationalization, that “it … • is a healthful activity for all ages to enjoy dance and fellowship and where disabled persons become skilled, happy and ‘Handicap able’ dancers.”
Next USDA, with its expanded definition and rationale, turned its efforts to work with each state to establish square dancing as their state folk dance According to their website, https://www.usda.org/FolkDance.php, to date thirty-one states have done exactly that (though occasionally also having a second designation). Ten states (Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Wisconsin, Wyoming) are working on a bill, and the remaining nine (Alaska, Hawaii, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Ohio, and Rhode Island) are inactive at this time.
As further evidence of the rich and diverse heritage of dance in this country (and around the world!), “round dancing” included in the definition of “square dancing” is also known as choreographed or cued ballroom dance. To date we include over twenty different rhythms in both International and American ballroom styles as well as other dance forms with their roots not only from Europe but also from three other continents, including half of them from the United States! While around the world ballroom dance is known as a competitive dance form (engaged in predominantly by those with sufficient funds to support private/expensive lessons), round dancing is noncompetitive and is enjoyed by “ordinary” folk, so including it as part of America’s folk dance is highly appropriate.
What Can You Do?
Knowing that dancing is important, especially as an activity which is healthy for those who do it as well as beneficial for society as a whole to bring people together in community, everyone can advocate for dance and engage in it themselves. It promotes physical, mental, emotional, and social health! It is good for you and good for our nation as a whole!
The International Dance Day proponents suggest the following activities for
• Reflect on the cultural significance of dance and its role in bringing people together.
Senior citizens are marvelous influencers. Besides becoming involved yourself, do what you can to influence family members, neighbors, dance leaders, and politicians to likewise become involved to stress the importance of this activity, and especially by celebrating these two special days: April 29 and the third Saturday in September (or activities near those special days). We especially need to get young people involved. You can introduce those you know to simple social dances via the lessons at https:// home.csulb.edu/~kwest/wido/dance.html. And share with me what you did. Email kaye.west@csulb.edu with the subject CELEBRATE DANCE. Thanks!
The Lions PARADE OF HOMES on March 7th was a huge success. 299 tickets were sold and $3867.25 will go toward Lions charities. Thank you to everyone who participated.
April 11th, from 9 am-12 pm, in the Rec 1 parking lot, beside lawn bowling.
SNOWBIRDS/SEASONAL RENTERS, please don’t leave LW for the summer without emptying your cupboards of all non-perishable items. All items must be unopened. (No glass or expired items, please.) At this event, we will also collect hygiene products and plastic grocery bags. Cash and checks (made payable to LW Lions Club) will also be accepted.
If you are unable to contribute on April 11th, donations may be dropped off in the bins located in the front foyer of the Admin Bldg. at any time.
Point of contact:
Linda Grissom at 602-568-4629, or Susan Hayes at 480-215-2643.
Camp Tatiyee Director Pam Swanson and Club President Kenneth Steele. Pam was the speaker at the Lions Club meeting on Feb 24th to raise awareness and seek donations for the Camp. This kicked off our fund drive starting April 1st. Our 2026 goal is $100,000.
The Camp is located in Pinetop/Lakeside, northern Arizona. Camp Tatiyee provides a FREE true summer camp experience for special needs children. There are 24-hour services available to meet the needs of all campers.
Camp Tatiyee is committed to including all campers in ambitious programming that includes: Archery, Robotics, Dance, Science, Go Karts, Kayaks,a waterslide program, a Talent Show , and more. What a joy when the camp turns loud, messy, and joyfully chaotic in the best possible way.
Open your heart and make a tax deductible donation to help get these special kids to camp!!
NOTE: By putting LW Lions Club in the memo line of your check, our Club gets credit for your donation and you get the tax receipt.
This special time of year is a great time to treat yourself, friends, and family to an original English tea, served by our own English Lion Carolin Lowy. She can accommodate up to 12 guests, but prefers 6-8.
For $17.50, the menu starts with a small quiche and apple juice; then 4 tiny sandwiches - cucumber, home made egg salad, cream cheese with dates and nuts, and smoked salmon. Hot tea is served. A choice of real British breakfast tea with either milk or lemon or green tea. The next course is scones with butter, clotted cream and raspberry jam. Finally, the holiday dessert of Trifle. To end the meal, dried fruit and an English cookie are served.
This is a great way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or other special occasions.
All the money paid goes directly to Lions charities. Lion Carolin contributes all the costs involved. Call Carolin at 480-641-4626 to schedule your own English tea!
18-26 April is Lions Environmental Week of Service. The Lions Club collects and recycles ONLY aluminum cans in our designated bins. Thank you LW residents for your support.
PLEASE NOTE – Trash mixed in with aluminum cans contaminates the bins which reduces the market value of the recycled materials. Remember, all profits go to support our charities.
-The PANCAKE BREAKFAST on Feb 17th was an amazing success! “WE SERVED” Pancakes, French Toast, sausage, blueberry sauce, orange juice and coffee to over 200 residents.
- Did you know Lions Club International has a Disaster Relief Fund? 100% of donations to this fund helps Lions improve the lives of hundreds of millions of people globally through humanitarian service projects. Since 1968, we’ve been helping Lions enhance their service, awarding over US $1.3 billion through more than 22,000 grants.
Submitted by Lion Kathy Murray kmurray6694@gmail.com
The outcome of many deals depends on whether or not declarer times his plays correctly. Consider this case where West leads the diamond queen against four hearts. After taking the trick with dummy’s king, how should declarer proceed?
The first thing he must do is count his losers. This reveals that he could lose a spade, a heart, a diamond and two clubs. He then seeks a line of play that gives him the best chance to avoid at least two of these losers.
South sees at once that, come what may, he must lose a spade trick. But he also sees that if he is very lucky, he might not lose another trick! If East has the queen of hearts and king of clubs, a couple of winning finesses will neutralize them. South can also get rid of his diamond loser by forcing out the ace of spades and later discarding a diamond on one of dummy’s high spades. Finally, his third club can be ruffed in dummy.
But South isn’t in six hearts, and so must put his thoughts in proper order just to ensure making 10 tricks. Clearly, the most pressing matter is to try to get rid of the diamond loser before the defenders can establish their trick in that suit.
Declarer therefore leads a low spade from dummy at trick two. Let’s say he wins with the jack and plays another spade to dummy’s queen. East takes his ace and returns a diamond to dummy’s ace.
After discarding his diamond loser on the king of spades, South proceeds to the next order of business and finesses the queen of clubs. This loses to West’s king and back comes the ten of spades. South ruffs, cashes the ace of clubs and trumps a club with dummy’s seven.
Next comes a trump finesse, which (unluckily) loses
By Ryan A. Berenz
Questions
1. Name the Italian racecar manufacturer that became the sole chassis supplier for the IndyCar Series starting in 2007.
2. What team won the NCAA women’s bowling championship six times from 2004 to 2021?
3. What Vancouver stadium was home to the BC Lions of the CFL from 1954 to 1982, hosted seven Grey Cup games from 1955 to 1974 and was demolished in 1993?
4. Name the Dallas Cowboys cornerback who set an NFL single-season record with his fifth interception returned for a touchdown in 2023.
5. He played college basketball for the Duke Blue Devils and was drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers in 2002. He has fraternal twin sons who also play basketball at Duke. Who are they?
to West’s queen. However, South makes the contract even though both finesses lost. Observe, though, that had he attempted either finesse before leading a spade at trick two, he would have gone down one. His plays had to be timed perfectly.
(c)2026 King Features Syndicate Inc.
6. John Landy, the second person to run a mile in under four minutes (following Roger Bannister), served as a state governor in what country from 2001 to 2006?
7. How many times did Wayne Gretzky achieve the NHL’s rare “50 goals in 50 games” feat - scoring 50 goals in his team’s first 50 games of the season?
Answers
1. Dallara.
2. The University of Nebraska Cornhuskers.
3. Empire Stadium.
4. DaRon Bland.
5. Carlos Boozer and sons Cameron and Cayden.
6. Australia.
7. Three, in three straight seasons from 1981 to 1985.
(c) 2026 King Features Syndicate, Inc.
By JoAnn Derson
• A good non-slip bathmat is essential in the tub to prevent accidents. Grab an extra to drape over the edge of the tub for help when entering and exiting.
• “To remove residue left over from price tags, you can use hairspray. Remove as much paper as possible, then give a good squirt. Use a plastic scraper to lightly scrape off the adhesive.” -- L.P. in Ohio
• Got bread ends? Store in a bag in the freezer until you need breadcrumbs for a recipe. Pulse frozen chunks in a chopper or blender for instantly usable crumbs.
• “Guacamole is a precious commodity at my house, but sometimes I want a snack, not a whole bowl. I have struggled with how to save the leftovers, because once it browns, it’s done. I learned a new trick, though. Simply put the leftovers in the smallest container possible and tamp down to press out all the air. Then carefully add a thin layer of water. Seal and refrigerate for up to three days. When you are ready to dip, pour off the water and stir!” -- C.D. in California
• “I have an old cedar chest from my grandmother. It had lost its smell, though. My husband removed all the contents and sanded it with superfine grit sandpaper. It is restored and smells wonderful now.” -- J.K. in Iowa
• Need a quick measure? A paper bill (U.S. currency) is exactly 6 inches long.
Send your tips to Now Here’s a Tip, 1800 Pembrook Dr., Suite 300, Orlando, FL 32810.
(c) 2025 King Features Synd., Inc.
Judge: Lindsey Pedersen
JUDGE’S NOTES ENTRY FIRST LAST TITLE
11 Watercolor Beginners
Best of Show & First 63
Julie Fabbri Rhythmic Reds
First 114 Jane Vallie-Amdahl The Edna G, Two Harbors, MN
Third 14 Nancy Cich Southwest Pots
Honorable Mention 207 Jeanette Childers Sand & Moss
Honorable Mention 13 Nancy Cich Abstract Landscape
Honorable Mention 112 Jane Vallie-Amdahl Ginger Girl
13 Acrylic Beginners
First 231 Dolores Organ Sunburst
14 Colored Pencil & Drawing Beginners
First 203 Jeanette Childers Red Lady
Second 26 Bryce Larson Circles
Honorable Mention 144 Barbara Borlonga King Fisher
Honorable Mention 204 Jeanette Childers Caught Ya!
15 Other Media Beginners
First 233 Dolores Organ Generations
Second 6 Monica Beatrice Unpeopled
Third 7 Monica Beatrice Crafting Joy
Honorable Mention 5 Monica Beatrice Soaked in the City
Honorable Mention 1 Pat Billingsley Pear Pear
Honorable Mention 145 Barbara Borlonga Tortoise
17 Mixed Media Beginners
First 64 Julie Fabbri Captured Orbs
Second 27 Bryce Larson Triangles
Third 46 Steve Stocker Neurographic Watercolor and Ink
Honorable Mention 2 Pat Billingsley Joyful Dragonflies
Honorable Mention 142 Barbara Borlonga Fried Egg 17 Mixed Media Intermediate
First 106 Lise Melton PickUp Sticks 11 Watercolor Intermediate
First 87 Elizabeth Galli Whiskey Barrel Flowers
Second 86 Elizabeth Galli Sailboat
Third 88 Elizabeth Galli Smoky’s Fruit Bowl
12 Oil Intermediate
First 102 Lise Melton Pasquini Olive Mill Lunchroom
Second 140 Diana Phinney Red Rubber Ball
Third 104 Lise Melton Dock in Toscana
Honorable Mention 141 Diana Phinney Country Road
13 Acrylic Intermediate
First 103 Lise Melton Aqua Naterali - Antico Boreo La Torre
Second 202 Gary Beckwith Bison Dream
Third 126 Gary Beckwith Royal Goose 11 Watercolor Advance
First 111 Kim Reisner Old Barn
Honorable Mention 110 Kim Reisner Fruit of the Spirit-Love 12 Oil Advance
First 109 Kim Reisner Bleeding Tree
Second 54 Billie Klaus Living Tree
14 Colored Pencil & Drawing Advance
First 10 Monica Beatrice A Quiet Gathering 17 Mixed Media Advance
First 53 Billie Klaus The Olive Tree 11 Watercolor Established/Professional
First 161 Donald Christianson Sonaran Sunrise
Honorable Mention 160 Donald Christianson Red Dog
First
13 Acrylic Established/Professional
First 95 Ray Hurd Ending the Day on a Color Note
Second 79 Sally Bills Bailey Pink Hollyhocks
Third 22 Vivian Dunbar Drawn to the Light
Honorable Mention 83 Sally Bills Bailey Summer Sky 14 Colored Pencil & Drawing Established/Professional
First 60 Dean Troutman Moving On
Second 37 Mary Opat Blacksmith
Third 57 Dean Troutman Sly 15 Other Media Established/Professional
First 56 Dean Troutman Wild Vine
Second & Viewer’s Choice 55 Dean Troutman Uncle Jess 17 Mixed Media Established/Professional
First 34 Mary Opat Café
Second 24 Vivian Dunbar Serenity 18 Computer Digital Art Established/Professional
First 171 Linda Weinstock Buckhorn Bath
Honorable Mention 170 Linda Weinstock Ukulele Mary Cox
PHOTOGRAPHY WINNERS
Judge: Lindsey Pedersen
JUDGE’S NOTE ENTRY FIRST LAST TITLE
1 Black & White or Sepia
First 115 Jane Vallie-Amdahl Moon
Second 96 Ruth Klinge Honky Tonk Tavern 2 Waterscapes
First 29 Connie Lehnke Evening Lights on the River
Second 68 Jeanne Fluhrer Canal in Brugge
Third 250 Dan Jorgenson Superior Autumn
Honorable Mention 77 Jane Page Reflections
3 Landscapes
First 169 Linda Weinstock Artist’s Alley Parisian Soul
Second 248 Dan Jorgenson Bingo Grain
Third 75 Jane Page Morning Mist
Honorable Mention 122 Ray Hurd A Hoarfrost Morning Honorable Mention 30 Connie Lehnke Italy Through Arches
Honorable Mention 132 Mary Linnemann Sunny Day
4 People
First 118 Ray Hurd Welcome to My Village Honorable Mention 70 Jeanne Fluhrer Jamming in the Park
5 Plants
First 117 Jane Vallie-Amdahl Maple Tree
Second 239 Walt Pinkus Home Protection
Third 31 Connie Lehnke Bee’s Happy
Honorable Mention 135 Dorien Lundy Cactus in Bloom
Honorable Mention 76 Jane Page Passion
6 Animals
Best of Show & First 98 Ruth Klinge Ethereal Egret Viewer’s Choice & Second 116 Jane Vallie-Amdahl Gila Wood Recker
Third 138 Dorien Lundy Eye of a Conch
Honorable Mention 234 Elaine Prom A Moment
7 Still Life
First 136 Dorien Lundy Balls, Balls, Balls
Honorable Mention 168 Linda Weinstock Sharp Focus, Soft Memories
8 Man-Made
First 99 Ruth Klinge Evening Serenity
Second 69 Jeanne Fluhrer Coffee Stop
Third 85 Wayne Balmer Bug Eyes
Honorable Mention 238 Walt Pinkus Dehydrated
9 Humor
Second 32 Connie Lehnke I Said Don’t Swim
Honorable Mention 67
Jeanne Fluhrer Cartoons Before Bath
10 Creative
First 101 Ruth Klinge Bicycle Fantasy
Honorable Mention 130 Mary Linnemann Fall Reflection
THREE DIMENTIONAL FINE ART WORK
Judge: Lindsey Pedersen
JUDGE’S NOTES ENTRY FIRST LAST TITLE
26B Quilts - Pattern
First 51 Andrea G. Williams Moochi Cat
Second 190 Elaine Prom Spring
First 52
26A Fiber Art
Jane Zeedies Ferdinand The Sheep
Second 153 Jan Tedrow Coastal View
Best of Show & First 17
Second 225
26C Quilts - Original
Nancy Cich Stash Buster
Kaye West Patriotic Profusion Array
Third 18 Nancy Cich My Silhouette
21 Pottery
First 108 Lise Melton
24 Wood
Steve & Gary’s Earth & Sky AZ Totem
First 184 Charles Dyck Chest Set
Second 183 Charles Dyck 3D Plate
25 Metals
Honorable Mention 182 Robert Andersen Montana Glory of the West
27 Folk Art
First 73 Pamela Russell Harvest Time
Second 4 Pat Billingsley Pear
30 Mixed Material
185 Charles Dyck Shadow Box #3
First 186 Charles Dyck Shadow Box #1
Second 41 Kay O’Toole Copper
Honorable Mention 28
Bryce Larson WTP - What’s the Point
Honorable Mention 49 Steve Stocker Art Studio Diorama
31 New Medium Art
Honorable Mention 74 Pamela Russell Ocean Breeze
First 107
Second 219
28A Jewelry Beginner
Lise Melton Square Ring - Casting
Jennifer Way Copper Wrapped Jasper
Third 223 Steve Way Picture Jasper with Bail
Honorable Mention 121 Larry Antes Turquoise Bolo #3
28B Jewelry Intermediate
First 42 Kay O’Toole Agate Pendant Necklace
28C Jewelry Advance
First 149 Daniel Coulombe Chrysoprase Cross - Copper Wrap
Second 243 Lauren Heald Tangled Heart
Third 228 Bill Moore Sterling Silver Set with Larimar Stones 23F Fusion Glass
First 210 Carol Ewing Forest
Second 175 Colette Kuka So Much Goodness
Third 211 Carol Ewing Faux Weave
Honorable Mention 180 Robert Andersen Binary Timiz
Honorable Mention 128 Susan Dolk Crazy for Color 23S Stained Glass
First 89 Cathie Humphreys Stained Glass w/ Pebbles & Geede
Second 154 Ellie Elliott Superstition Mountains
Honorable Mention 19 Melba Alexander Ronnie the Rescue
Honorable Mention 237 Sharon Klabon Whispers of Light and Shadow
176 Colette Kuka Anothere Sunny Day 23M Mosaic Glass
First 209 Carol Ewing Blue Bird
Viewer’s Choice & Second 127 Susan Dolk Welcome Home
The Leisure World Art Club would like to thank all the generous donors and contributors who helped make the Spring Art Show Raffle a great success. Your support and generosity added excitement to the event and helped make this year’s Spring Art Show especially enjoyable for everyone who attended.
Your donation directly enables us to continue bringing art and creativity to our Leisure World community, and we are deeply grateful for your belief in our mission.
We gratefully acknowledge the following Artists and Clubs that donated to our Spring Art Show Raffle:
Sally Bills Bailey ~ Gail Bowers ~ Don Christianson ~ Nancy Cich
Vivian Dunbar ~ Jan Kelly ~ Ruth Klinge ~ Ira Leibowitz
Lisa Melton ~ Chef Doris LaMott ~ Doug McMurray ~ Mary Opat
Kim Reisner ~ Mary Reuland ~ Elana Reylek ~ Pamela Russel
Dean Troutman ~ Linda Weinstock ~ Family of Louise Willard
Andrea Williams ~ LW Pickleball Members ~ LW Grub and Grove
LW Art Club Members ~ LW Community Theater ~ LW Fitness Center
LW Golf Shane Romesburg ~ LW Recreation Dept ~ LW Staff
Thank you for your continued support of the Leisure World Art Club.
Spring Art Show Raffle Chair Linda Weinstock Manor 694
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.
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
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.
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
Marcie’s Senior Day Club
Coming soon to East Mesa Care for senior loved one. We offer a safe, welcoming space. This is where seniors can socialize, stay active and feel valued while family can enjoy and a well deserved respite. (480)714-4043 or (623)715-2204.
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.
Companionship Care Assistant: Basic Services $65 per Day
• Visit up to 2 hrs.
• Run errands up to .6 miles.
• Prepare meals.
• Appointment setter.
• Doctor visits.
• Communicate with family members Special services
• Light housekeeping – extra fee
• Notary service from 8am – 8pm weekly Call Serena 480 232-6613.
Adult care
Full or part-time
Available: day, evening or overnight
Excellent References
Call or text: 480-529-0760
Email: alicebest712@gmail.com
Caregiver/Companion
Years of experience, good references, flexible hours day or night. Also, light cooking, light cleaning, doctors appt, and errands. Call Donna 480-493-7574
Dovely Touch
Elderly Home Care For all Your Special Needs! Doctor visits, light cleaning, 25 years of experience, and CPR First Aid. Call Cassy (480) 468-0431
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.
My Garage Guys Door Service
Senior Discounts, Veteran Owned 480-336-0880
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.
Local Seamless Gutter Company to help with your home. MNM Gutters is the community's preferred gutter company. Honest, thorough and guaranteed work in a timely manner.
Call: 602.748.8765 for your estimate. Licensed, bonded and insured.
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Handyman Services
“Don’t have time for home repairs? K3M Properties LLC. is your solution! We handle everything from small fixes to big projects.Reliable, affordable and professional. 30 years experience. Call Michael now at (602)350-1802
Eddie's Toolbox - Small Job Handyman. Leisure World Resident. Picture Hanging, Car Waxing, Assembly, Headlight Restoration, Lamp Repair, Minor Electrical, Miscellaneous. Call/Text Ed 480-390-2091
I FIXIT REMODELING & HANDYMAN SERVICE
• Kitchen/Bath Remodels
• Plumbing
• Electric
• Painting
• Drywall
• Honey Do List
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.
TODD LACHOWICZ
Over 28yrs Experience (480) 875-8282
If you can think it, I can do it
Veracity Worx LLC Experienced Handyman. Appliance installation, light fixture or ceiling fan install, drywall repairs, kitchen back splash installations, plumbing, minor electrical repairs and many more! Call or text Axel at 352-304-2330. axel.malpica1@gmail.com.
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.
MEET YOUR FRIENDLY LEISURE WORLD
AVON REPRESENTATIVE, Bonnie Ragsdale, for all of your AVON needs. Call 480-2413770 or email avon0498@yahoo.com.
HOME REPAIR & REMODELING
KTS Tile & Stone Ken Thompson
Tile installation, repairs, L.V.T. Floors, showers, decks & walways, & custom works.
LICENSED/BONDED Call Ken @ 602-751-0033
Facelifts 4 Homes. Since 1986
Rob Stalp has been remodeling in LW since 1986 Family Business Honest And Dependable Renovations-Remodeling-Room Additions-Kitchens-Bathrooms Drywall-Painting-Skylights-Roofing-TileLaminate-Granite-Quartz Countertops -Cabinets-Trim-Base-Crown-DoorsWindows- Custom Showers Lic 297942 Bonded Insured Call or Text Rob Stalp 480-703-5637 Good Things Happen When You Call!
DZO Remodeling LLC
No project too big or too small. We do Plumbing, Drywall, Painting, Bathroom/ Kitchen/Flooring Remodels, Roofing, Concrete and much more! Let me finish your to-do list! 12+ years’ experience! ROC 343814 Licensed, Bonded and Insured! Call or text Victor 480-543-8879.
Home Remodeling and Rain Gutter Specialist. AZ Rooms, Dual Pane Replacement Windows, Aluminum & Vinyl Siding & Trim Seamless Rain gutters-30 colors. Very reliable-Licensed & Bonded. ROC #114475 Call George 480-820-8711. We love small jobs.
Rapid Restoration & Construction
24 Hour Emergency Service
- Remodels & Additions
- Emergency Temp Repairs
- Flooring Installation
- 24 Hour Board-Up
- Kitchen & Bath Remodels
- Mold Remediation
- Cabinet Install & Repair/Rebuild
- Fire Restoration
- Structural Repairs
- Water Extraction
- Plumbing Services 480-662-8146 www.rapidrestoreaz.com
HOME SERVICES
*WALK-IN SHOWER
*FLOORING
*PAINTING
*WINDOW & DOOR
*DRYWALL & TEXTER
*ROOM ADDITIONS
*PATIO ENCLOSURES
*AZ ROOMS
*STUCCO
*CONCRETE & PAVERS
*BLOCK FENCE
*FRAMING
*PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL
CALL RICKY. 602-319-7280
WWW.RZFLOORBATHCOVERING.COM
HOUSEKEEPING SERVICES
Alanna's Housekeeping
“Let me take the work off your hands”. I’ll get to those hard-to-reach places! Weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, move out, move ins. Call Alanna, 480-720-0101
Trusted House Cleaning Services
Clean By Design
Friendly, caring, insured, background check. Let me Bless you with a house cleaning! Great rates! Call Julie 503-367-5904
HOUSE RENTALS
RENTAL WANTED
Non-smoking snowbirds (no pets) looking for winter 2026 rental. A 3-month term from January 10th to April 2026 is preferred. Call or text Dennis at (587) 229-9161 or email d.j.olson@icloud.com.
Designing Arizona Landscape
Specializing in complete desert landscape and sprinkler install/repair, removal, rock, lighting. Low Prices for Seniors. A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau. Perfect record with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Arizona License #243110. Bonded & Insured. Free estimates: 480-380-9966. www.designingaz.com
ALTOGETHER Landscaping LLC family-owned business provides: * Lawn Mowing
* Bush/Tree Trimming * Sprinkler Install/Repair
* Plant/Tree Installation
* Paver Installation * Free Estimates ** Call us @ 480-331-9144 ** www.altogetherlandscaping.com
July AZ Landscaping Taking care of your projects for 15 years! Irrigation, tree trimming, Desertscapes, maintenance, Gravel, pavers, wall and turf installation. Call Julio Meneses at 480-386-3954 Free Estimates.
15% SENIOR DISCOUNT, Raul’s Clean-Up & Tree Services. Yard Clean-Up, Tree Topping & Pruning, Trash Removal, Spread Rock, Trimming or Removal, Free Estimates, Affordable Rates. ALL WORK GUARANTEED,
GL Enterprise LLC
Home Repairs/Construction/Installs
Electrical High and Low voltage systems
Plumbing
Flooring
General Construction/Cabinet Installs
Carpentry
Metal Work Fabrication/Welding
Masonry
30 years of experience
Automotive Repairs
Domestic
Foreign
Scheduled General Maintenance
Oil & Lube Service
Brakes
Exhaust systems
Batteries
Tire Rotations
General Inspection
20 years of experience
Integrated Security/Media Systems/ Computer systems
Cameras
Alarms
Access Control
Theater Installs
Computer & Network solutions
Maintenace
Repair
Monitoring
Gate & Barrier Arm Systems
10 years of Experience
Call or text George Garcia: 512-590-2228
Email George Garcia: glgarcia@glenterprise.com
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
AKP Services is now offering RESIDENTIAL PAINTING in LEISURE WORLD. We will handle all stucco, siding, and drywall repairs. We have been serving the valley for 20+ years. 480.910.5181 – See the GAMES page for more info.
Spartan Pest Control Pest. Weed. Termite Veteran Owned 480-853-3811
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 ServicesFree 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 & reroutes, sewer & drain cleaning, garbage disposals, trenchless excavation, natural gas & propane piping, toilets, water heaters, softeners, faucets & fixtures, leaks, water service and sewer repair & replacement, valves, remodeling. Free estimates & competitive pricing. Senior & cash pay discounts. Call 480-2557325. Licensed, bonded, insured.
RWB 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.
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!
Geo Roofing Maintenance, Repairs, Replacements
Coating, Foam, Shingle, Tile Dealer Direct Pricing No Salesman, Owner Direct ! Cell/text Mike 480-239-4297 Mike@geoaz.com www.geoaz.com
Caruso’s Roofing and Coating. Tile Roof Repairs, Flat Roof Repairs, Skylights and Elastomeric Roof Coatings. Family Owned and Operated. No Job Too Small! FREE ESTIMATES! Call Josh at Caruso’s Roofing & Coating 480-200-7156. ROC #261628.
/ IRRIGATION REPAIR & INSTALLATION
Designing Arizona Landscape
Specializing in all phases of Sprinkler Repair, PVC, Drip Systems, Trouble Shooting. Low prices for Seniors. A+ rating with The Better Business Bureau. Prefect record with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors. Arizona License #243110. Bonded & Insured. Free Estimates: 480-380-9966 www.designingaz.com
I Repair Sprinklers Full-Service
Sprinkler Repair & Installation. Specializing in all aspects of sprinkler and drip system repair and installation. Timers, valves, leaks, backflow devices, troubleshooting, etc. Licensed, bonded & insured for your protection, 2-year warranties. Guaranteed lowest priced licensed contractor. Flawless ROC record #243662. Call Mike Smith at 480-233-1009 or schedule online at www.iRepairSprinklers.com.
ARIES (March 21 to April 19) You are selfreliant and rarely ask anyone for help. But this time, you might want someone you trust to be there for you while you deal with a difficult matter. Cheer up! Things will improve soon.
TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Your patience begins to pay off. Look for the first sign that your goals are in plain sight. Then take time out from all your hard work for some fun with someone special.
accepting a promotion, but you need to follow your own instincts. And if you believe you’re right for the job, then take the chance.
GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) There could be some lingering effects from a recent setback. But it’s all for the best (as you’re now beginning to appreciate). Use the lessons that you’ve learned to start over.
CANCER (June 21 to July 22) What seemed to be a difficult goal to reach is now -- or soon will be -- all yours. Congratulations! Meanwhile, an unexpected travel opportunity holds an intriguing new prospect.
LEO (July 23 to August 22) A chilly reception to your presentation shouldn’t cause you to abandon your ideas. Instead, tweak up the weaker parts and then, once again, show them what you have.
VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Hiding your feelings might make you feel safer against rejection. But this could be the time when you’ll need to speak up or risk losing out on an important event in your life.
LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Some co-workers might try to talk you out of
SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Some changes are in order as you come to realize that you need to sort out several areas in your life. Your remarkable insight helps you make the right decisions.
SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) It’s time to act on your own behalf and separate yourself from people whose selfish needs threaten your personal and/or professional survival.
CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Resist the tendency to close yourself off from unpleasant situations. Instead, open up to how things are so that you can help change them to what they could be.
AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) An unspoken problem could be driving a deep wedge between you and a special person. Some honest talking ‘twixt the two of you can start the healing process.
PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You might feel like you’ve been going around in everwidening circles when trying to deal with recent workplace problems. Cheer up! A successful end is finally in sight.
BORN THIS MONTH: You love to talk, and people love to hear what you have to say. If you were a teacher, you’d never have to worry about keeping your students’ attention.
e.g.
Deprived (of)
Egg-shaped
Assistant on iPhones
Pomeranian, e.g.
Accumulate, as interest
Modeling compound for kids
Twinge of guilt, e.g.
Oahu feast
Water whirl
column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely. For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org.
Q7 or A8 carmaker
Lead-in to care or gap, in health care
Impose -- on (illegalize)
Book of hymns
From the distant
-- Bator, Mongolia
mutt
By Jeff Pickering
P r of es s ion al Car egiv er s (l ic en s ed an d bon d ed )
L on g-Ter m Car e I n s u r an c e Exp er t is e an d Ad v oc ac y
Con t r ac t ed wit h t h e VA f or H om e
H eal t h Aid es (H H A/H M P r ogr am )
Am ad a S en ior Car e - m em ber of t h e
Ar izon a I n - H om e Car e As s oc iat ion
S p ec ial ize in l as t m in u t e h os p it al d is c h ar ges
R at es $36 - 43/h ou r
