Issuu

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Phoenix Metro December 2014

e t a t s E l a e R Issue 2014

Is a Manufactured Home Still a Viable Option in Arizona? : : by Curt Blakeney

Finish Line Newsletter starts on page 55

The staff at Lovin’ Life After 50 would like to wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday season.

See what PEOPLE are TALKING about

IN PAIN? EMBARRASSED TO SMILE? DREAD THE DENTIST? WE GET IT.

With Captioned Telephone Service, you don’t have to worry about missing any part of your telephone conversations.

CAPTIONED TELEPHONE SERVICE: > Allows you to both listen to and read telephone conversations > Uses voice recognition software to display every word the caller says > Captions appear on a bright, easy-to-read display screen > Captioning service is

Dr. Eric Wendelschafer and his amazing team of professionals!

FREE!

r to cate ORS! We T VISI a TER or N f I W e in Com GIFT! FREE

LARGE,

easy-to-read display lets you see what your caller is saying so you don’t miss a thing!

623-239-4164

14800 W. Mountain View Dr., Ste 200, Reems Rd. and Grand Ave.

FREE Emergency Visit Problem-Focused Exam • Includes 1 X-ray New patient only. CANNOT BE COMBINED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. Not for use with dental insurance. Limited time offer.

1.866.259.1768 1.800.347.1695 TTY info@azrelay.org

47 Dental Cleaning $

Includes cleaning, X-rays & Comprehensive Dental Exam New patients only. Not for use with dental insurance. Cleaning does not include periodontal therapy. Limited time offer.

Pain-free Treatment • Most Insurance Plans Accepted • Emergencies Welcome

www.azrelay.org

n ra d e t e Ve wn ess O sin Bu “Hi, my name is ACE and you won’t believe your eyes!”

Carpet, Tile & Upholstery Care The Best Carpet Cleaning You’ve Ever Seen, Guaranteed! • No wands • No trip charges • No $4.95 a room bait & switch scams

We use the

ROTOVAC 360

Check out the difference!

CARPET

3 ROOMS for

W Ou Sup e r T po ro rt op s

Restrictions apply. Expires December 31, 2014

CARPET

5 AREAS for

Restrictions apply. Expires December 31, 2014

page 2 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

*$75 Minim

TILE

40% OFF Tile 99 Cleaning

119

••• Truck Mounted •••

Take an additional 10% OFF f or veterans!*

Restrictions apply. Expires December 31, 2014

1225 W Main St., Ste 101-252 Mesa, AZ 85201

480-969-1994 Check out our testimonials at

www.AceCarpetCleaningPhoenix.com www.lovinlifeafter50.com

A Special Wellness Report New Medicine Based On An 88-Year Old Theory By Albert Einstein Can Help Almost Everyone Who Is Sick Or Injured!

hat you are about to read may be the most important information you’ve ever read. Here is why. Albert Einstein was, quite possibly, the most intelligent person who ever lived. His theories and ideas were so far ahead of his time, that even now, the smartest scientists alive are still discovering his value.

Professional Results In a Small, Easy to Use Package! Call 1-800-303-6923, Code 6840 For Your FREE Information Report.

With the correct equipment, properly used, low level lasers have been clinically shown to reduce pain, reduce inflammation, increase cellular energy, increase cell permeability (so that the nutrients the cell needs to heal can get into the cell) and even help correct faulty DNA!*

One of his theories published in 1917, worked out the theory of how lasers function. However, it was not until May 16, 1960 (43 years later) that the first actual laser was developed by an American scientist. Since then, scientists and inventors have developed many types of lasers and all kinds of uses for them. They can be used as a scalpel that is so delicate, it can be used on the eyes of human beings. Lasers are used to read price codes at your local supermarkets. And they’re used to play music and video on your CD’s and DVD’s. But now, there is a new type of laser so effective against human disease and injury that it is rapidly changing the practice of medicine. This is a new type of low-level laser which produces an unfocused light that has been...

Registered With The FDA To Be 100% Safe! Low-level lasers use less than one watt of power and they produce what can best be described as a “Healing Light”. Here is a somewhat un-scientific description of how this “Healing Light” can potentially help reverse the damage done by human sickness and disease. As you probably know, our entire bodies are made up of cells. The health of all human cells is based on energy. If your cells don’t receive enough energy, they will weaken and the body will become sick. Call 1-800-303-6923, Code 6840.

Be One Of The First 200 To Call & Receive A Free DVD! For you to be healthy, what your cells need is exactly the right kind and the right amount of energy. Every time you get injured or become sick, the energy flow to your cells is disrupted. Until the proper type and amount of energy is restored, you will remain sick or injured. That’s what a low-level laser device does. It re-energizes the cells in your body with the right kind and proper amount of healing energy. It may surprise you to learn that low level lasers are ...

Used By Doctors To Heal Their Patients In The Fastest Way Possible! Could you guess what kind of doctors use the highest percent of low-level lasers on their patients? It’s doctors involved in sports medicine. Why? The answer is simple. You see, doctors involved in sports medicine often have to get their patients better in the fastest way humanly possible because every day he remains “unhealthy” can cost the sports organization millions of dollars.

What you have just read is a very simplistic (almost childish) explanation of low-level laser therapy, of how it works, and what it can do for you. But this is something that needs to be explained to you much more accurately by a real expert.

But here’s something exciting! You don’t actually need to go to a doctor to get laser therapy. If you want to you can buy one of these devices and use it on yourself. The best ones come with simple, easy-to-follow instructions and can be used by almost any person with average intelligence. Perhaps the best low-level lasers in the world have been invented by a doctor named Larry Lytle. He has studied lasers and human health for years, and Dr. Lytle is, without question, one of the most knowledgeable people in the world about low-level lasers... and... how they can be used...

To Help Almost Every Health Problem Ever Experienced By A Human Being! Dr. Lytle believes (as do many other people) low-level laser therapy will become the medicine of the future. If you hold a low-level laser device against the skin of your body and turn it on, you will be able to see the laser light... but... you will not be able to feel it. There probably won’t even be a sensation of warmth. Laser light is as gentle as the kiss of a butterfly. But, from a healing point of view, it is quite possible it is more effective than drugs or surgery. Low-level laser therapy is not just the medicine of the future. For many people who know about it, it is the “medicine” they use now. The problem of trying to explain the healing powers of low-level laser therapy is...

It Works So Well On So Many Different Problems, It Seems Like It Couldn’t Possibly Be True! But it is true! As mentioned earlier, all injury and illness creates an interruption of energy to the cells of the human body. The body will never recover until the proper amount and type of energy is restored to these cells. But once that energy is restored...

The Body Can Recover From Almost Anything!

This is information which just might help relieve you of any disease and might possibly save your life and the life of your loved ones. And best of all, you can

Get This Information Absolutely FREE! Dr. Larry Lytle himself has written and compiled a FREE REPORT in which he explains to you exactly how and why low-level laser therapy works. Dr. Lytle will show you some unbelievable “before” and “after” pictures of people who have benefitted by this amazing new therapy. For some people, a free report and information like this can mark the beginning of an entirely new life... pain-free and full of energy. For others, it can make the difference of living a healthy life compared to a low-energy life of sickness and disease. And, for those who live with enormous pain every day ... this free report could truly guide them to a miracle! But even if you are not sick, not injured, or not in pain, you should still order this report. After all, it is 100% free. And almost nobody lives out their life without having at least some kind of sickness or injury. Wouldn’t it be nice to know that, if you do become sick or injured, you will at least know where to go to find some sort of answer to your problems that don’t involve dangerous drugs!

Call 1-800-303-6923 ...after you are connected, at the prompt, press the code number - 6840 - into your keypad then leave your name and mailing information. That number again is 1-800-303-6923, Code 6840. Your free report ... and free gift (if you’re one of the first 200 callers) will be sent to you via 1st Class Mail. After all, this is one FREE report that will teach you about something that can possibly make more of a positive change in your life than anything else you will ever learn. Get the free report. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. The report and your gift are both 100% free! *The QLaser System is indicated for providing temporary relief of pain associated with osteoarthritis of the hand, which has been diagnosed by a physician or another licensed medical professional. No other medical treatment claims are made or implied.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 3

contents

Season’s Greetings & Happy Holidays from 442 North Dobson Road Mesa, AZ 85021 - Call 888-255-7540

Inogen One G3

PORTABLE OXYGEN

STARTING AT

$1295

Free Gift

page 24

BBB

SALE ENDS RATING DECEMBER 24TH A+

Customized Rollator & Walkers Wheelchairs

Is a Manufactured Home Still a Viable Option in Arizona?

Travel Oxygen

Knee Walkers

WESTSIDE LOCATION OPENING SOON

Home Oxygen

We want EVERYONE to get this message. We want you educated. Some want you ignorant.

opinion

6 Sound Off 6 The Curmudgeon 7 The Up Side 9 The Widow’s Corner 10 News Briefs 11 Ask Gabby Gayle entertainment

12 Calendar of Events 16 Three Dog Night 16 Fun & Games Around the Valley 18 Tinseltown Talks 19 Puzzles 23 Bingo Happenings 30 Trivia Contest

We want EVERYONE29 Jan D’Atri to get this Falls Bash: message.32 Niagara Canada’s Grand Year’s Eve Party

publishers Steve T. Strickbine Steve Fish

executive editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski associate editor Curt Blakeney travel editor Ed Boitano art director Erica Odello senior account executive Lou Lagrave administration Courtney Oldham contributors Drew Alexander, Jan D’Atri, Michael Grady, Terry Ratner, Meghan McCoy, Gayle Lagman-Creswick, Andrea Gross, Irv Green, Deb Roskamp

home improvement travel

Gun safety and marksmanship is too important to you let petty gun What’s New and Old in Las Vegas We want educated. controllers and anti-rights Some want you ignorant.arizona senior olympics bigotry rule over you. Go to TrainMeAZ.com to learn is too Gun safety and marksmanship Finish Line News important to let pettyItgun controllers more. Go there. won’t and anti-rights bigotry rule over you. hurt you. LEARN. Go to TrainMeAZ.com to learn more.

34 45

Go there. It won’t hurt you. LEARN. THIS MESSAGE IS SPONSORED A BROAD INDUSTRY THISBY MESSAGE IS SPONSORED BY A COALITION BROAD INDUSTRY COALITION

page 4 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

credits

© 2014 by EOS Publishing, LLC. Lovin’ Life After 50 is a monthly publication dedicated to informing, serving and entertaining the active adults of Arizona. It is published by EOS Publishing, LLC, an Arizona limited liability company. Subscriptions are available for $24 per year or $40 for two years. Send check or money order to Lovin’ Life After 50.

Distribution Services Provided By

(480) 348-0343 Lovin’ Life After 50

3200 N. Hayden Rd. Suite 210 • Scottsdale, AZ 85251

(480) 348-0343

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

“ I had been going around and around with my prescription

drug order… SCAN took the time to understand and the interest to help me resolve the problem. I really felt that I was ‘special’.”

– Barbara M., member since 2013

Medicare Annual Enrollment ends soon! Discover SCAN Health Plan. At SCAN Health Plan, we offer the benefits that matter most

2015 SCAN Classic (HMO) Medicare Benefits for Maricopa and Pima Counties

to people with Medicare. Beyond benefits, we do something many other plans don’t. We listen to our members to ensure they receive the support and care they need, and we put our hearts into treating people with the dignity and respect they deserve. For more than 37 years, SCAN has served people with Medicare, connecting our members to the low-cost, comprehensive care and coverage they need to live well. Today, and in the years ahead.

0 Monthly plan premium $ 0 PCP office visits $ 0 SilverSneakers health club $

membership

0 Annual physical exam $ 0 Lab services $ 0 Routine eye exam (1 per year) $ 0 Inpatient hospital care $

Learn more about SCAN. Call SCAN toll-free:

1-877-857-5024 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. Pacific Time (PT) • 7 days a week • TTY Users: 711 Or visit: www.scan2015.com

(days 9 – 90+) $

SCAN Classic (HMO) is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract offered in California by SCAN Health Plan and in Arizona by SCAN Health Plan Arizona. Enrollment in SCAN Health Plan depends on contract renewal. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, formulary, pharmacy network, premium, copayments and/or co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. Contact SCAN Health Plan for more information. There is no obligation to enroll. Y0057_SCAN_8886_2014F File & Use Accepted 09232014 G8980 11/14 www.lovinlifeafter50.com

0 Diabetic supplies (lancets, test strips and monitor)

LLA50-NOV-11/06

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 5

opinion Sound Off

Apparently some people were not taught the proper way to use the drive-thru mailboxes at the post office. When there are two or more mailboxes spread out, you are supposed to drive to the farthest mailbox to put your mail in the mailbox so that way any cars behind you can put their mail in the mailboxes behind you to keep traffic moving. Don’t tie up traffic stopping at the first mailbox and please have your mail ready to go instead of fumbling around trying to find your envelopes! Thank you! In my line of work I have to ID every single person to serve alcohol. Period. It doesn’t matter if you look 19 or 99. We even have a sign posted that everyone must show ID before being served, but time after time after time, I have to hear people whine about how they’re 65 or they are a war veteran and blah, blah, blah. I don’t make the rules, I just enforce them. It is a part of my job. If I don’t card you and I am caught, I get fired. Do you get it now? So please for

the love of God get over it! If you want alcohol, and the rules say you have to show ID, show your ID and keep your big mouth shut. Or don’t have any alcohol, because I really don’t want to hear your stupid comments anymore! It is truly that simple. Thank you. Terry, I just read your article in Lovin’ Life After 50. I am 58 and have been an athlete my entire life. About two years ago, I assessed my future health and decided to focus on becoming more flexible, not only in my muscles, but also joint flexibility. I also saw the need for good balance. My wife and I started doing Yin Yoga at the Scottsdale JCC twice a week. This has helped my flexibility immensely. Do some research in this area. There are lots of yoga types. Yin is the one where you hold poses for extended time. It is meant to get into the joints and fascia. Deep stretches. Best wishes. Mark Edgerton Michelle Obama lost her law license back in 1993. Barack Obama surrendered his law license for both corruption and lying on the application for the bar examination. They both surrendered their licenses, although Michelle was censored by ARDC. These are the people who are

The Curmudgeon Democrats Deserved Their Defeat

: : by Drew Alexander

n the 1930s “Frankenstein” movie, the villagers finally tired of the monster created by the wicked scientist, and with torches blazing, stormed the castle gates to rid themselves of Dr. Frankenstein and his unholy creation. Taking a page from the famous horror film, the American people cast their fiery 2014 midterm ballots against the Democrat stronghold in protest of a vacillating and ineffectual president and the wrongheaded philosophies and policies that have wreaked havoc on the American economy and its people. The majority of voting Americans have had enough of a bloated government that prizes political power over the best interests of the nation’s citizens. On Nov. 4, the people said it loud and clear that they are fed up with

the monstrosity known as Obamacare rammed down their throats by the Democratic Party under the cover of darkness in 2010. The people are fed up with seeing their incomes diminished, the financial future of their children impaired, and the entire economy severely weakened by reckless spending that plunges the country deeper and deeper into debt. The people are fed up with the inaction to secure the nation’s borders and being forced to pay for the feeding, medical care and education of millions of aliens who enter the United States illegally, while other law-respecting potential immigrants jump through all the legal hoops and wait their turn to live and work amongst us. The people are fed up with scandal upon scandal surfacing from the

page 6 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

in our White House and have great power over all Americans. God save our country please! There is something very wrong with our judicial system. The Jodi Arias trial has already cost the taxpayers over $2 million. She admitted she’s guilty of the very violent murder. Our system has to be revamped so that another judicial circus can be avoided. Another school shooting. Where is our do-nothing Congress? Doing nothing as

usual. There should be a groundswell of voters who should absolutely say, “You’re fired and you shouldn’t get paid for all the times you’ve just taken off and done nothing.” You’re a disgrace. Shame on you. How can you look in the mirror and claim to be a representative of the public? You stink. Last night I went to an ice cream social. There was delicious ice cream and then one hour of music from a group that did a Johnny Cash tribute. At 10 to 8, a bunch of people were leaving. I thought ...continues on page 8

We Want to HEAR from You! Your message will be printed in the next issue! At Lovin’ Life we believe your opinions should be heard. Give us yours! Space providing, your Sound Off will be printed in the next issue. Please limit your messages to one minute or 100 words and include your name only if you would like it printed.

e-mail us: soundoff@lovinlifeafter50.com

Leave a message: (480) 348-0343 option 8

Obama administration. From the Benghazi debacle and the Internal Revenue Service targeting of tea party organizations, to the Fast and Furious gun-running scheme and the disgraceful conduct at Veterans Administration medical centers, there has been nothing but lying and stonewalling from supposed public servants. The people are fed up and apprehensive about the growing menace of barbaric Islamic extremists and an American president who seems bewildered by his role as commander in chief. We are a nation at war lacking the stature, strength and decisiveness of a wartime president, making us exceedingly and unnecessarily vulnerable. Distilling everything to its core, what was said to Democrats across the land is that we don’t trust or believe you. Your party leader promised us transparency in government, but instead we have been fed lies and obfuscation. Your party leader promised accountability, but we have yet to see

Write us: Lovin’ Life After 50 3200 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

any substantial penalty paid by any government official for violating laws and the pubic trust in connection with all the unresolved scandals. Your party leader promised to be the president of all the people and to heal the wounds of divisiveness, yet he and key Democratic congressional leaders have engaged in class and racial warfare while displaying an infuriating level of arrogance. Although the Democrats deserved the drubbing administered by the American people, the Republican Party would be wise to view the recent historic election as a teachable moment by seriously listening to what we have to say, and to what we want and don’t want from our government. And remember, we are at the gates... and holding torches. Drew Alexander, also known as “The Curmudgeon,” is a monthly columnist writing about political issues. Send comments to drewalexander@cox.net or to Drew Alexander, in care of Lovin’ Life After 50, 3200 N. Hayden Road, Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

The Up Side Wishing You a Blasphemous Holiday

: : by Michael Grady

n my home, it begins with a ripple of social obligation. “The kids,” my wife will say, “want to know if we’re eating here or there for Christmas.” This is usually around Halloween, so I’ll defer with a thoughtful grunt, or a “hang on, it’s third down...” But the dorsal fin has broken the water. Pretty soon, the office holiday party announcement breaches the surface of my Microsoft Outlook, our department store shelving foams red and green, and the holiday shark is on the hunt. I love Christmas and the holiday season. I’ve written about it for years, and every year I see a struggle to untangle the holidays’ essence from all the social choreography. This is not commercialism so much as the tyranny of place cards: the personal micromanagement, company manners and rigid behaviors we observe in the hope that everything goes nice and tidy and perfect. What’s fun about that? Stephen Nissenbaum’s excellent book, “The Battle for Christmas,” tells us that years ago—long before Bing Crosby ever sounded a low note or Tiny Tim had God-blessed anyone— 17th century English lords marked Christmas by reversing the social order: They’d stock their homes with cakes, puddings and ales, open their doors, and spend the day serving the poor tenant farmers who’d done their bidding all year. It was a lovely idea—leveling the class system in honor of Jesus’ birth. And like many ideas that feature ale, it worked beautifully right up until closing time. But when the Manor House clocks chimed midnight, and it was time for the riff-raff to crawl back down the social order, they were surprisingly reluctant to go! Instead, subtle hints grew less subtle; the verse “Bring us some figgy pudding” took on a less festive air; fingers were pointed, cravats were tweaked and soccer hooliganism broke out in “Downton Abbey.” This is how Christmas became the “Animal House” of holidays—so

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

reviled in England for its drunkenness and head-butting that Oliver Cromwell banned public celebrations of the day. I think of this, joyfully, every time someone scolds or cautions me for conduct that might “ruin Christmas.” I think of plastered peasant farmers, stinking of sherry, hurling potatoes at their elegant and oh-so-shocked Lords. And I say: “Christmas is a lot sturdier than you think.” I’m speaking to all good people in our families; the “do-ers,” who selflessly shoulder the baking, gifting, dining and hosting traditions of the holidays, but often miss the joy those traditions are meant to inspire. They regard Christmas as a delicate crystal vase. They must bear it safely from the past to the future and God help them if they trip, or stumble, or otherwise screw it up. In reality, Christmas is a scarred and durable holiday, built around the dubious idea that myrrh would make a good baby gift. It is less of a crystal vase and more of a football. And, like a football, Christmas has taken its share of weird bounces over the last millennia. Consider: Santa Claus was once conceived as a method of crowd control. In the 1820s, Nissenbaum explains, New York City’s working-class men were anxious to revive and refine England’s drunken brawling traditions at Christmastime. When City ordinances forbade random mobs of drunken men, the drunken men acquired horns and drums and announced that they were “bands.” These inebriated musicians toured upscale Manhattan neighborhoods, accepting silver, furniture and liquor as payment—usually before it was offered. When our modern Santa appeared, through Clement Clarke Moore’s poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” he was hailed as a working-class hero who single-handedly shifted Christmas’s focus toward children, and away from drunken horn-blowers trying to score a free armoire in Soho. Think about this next time you spend Christmas at your in-laws: If you just get through it without fisticuffs

or looting, you are already on the more sophisticated end of the curve. I think holiday pressure comes from all the choreography. You have your various religious traditions— Hanukkah, Advent, Midnight Mass and what not—with their special services, candle lightings, fastings, feastings and songs. Add a layer of gift-giving (“Johnny wants a pair of skates, Suzi wants a sled, Buster wants an iPhone 6...”); then a layer of social season (one, maybe two, office parties; the party you attend because you’ll hurt feelings if you don’t; the party you attend for the great food; the friends you “haven’t seen in ages!”); then at least one banquet with all the family, whether they like it or not. Top all that with a coating of advertising-induced social pressure (“Do you have your lights up yet?” “Are you doing Black Friday?” “Did you purchase the latestand-greatest?”) and you have a coral reef of social expectations so dense it takes a contortionist to maneuver through it. While many of us (men) would be content just to swill egg nog and steal finger foods ‘til the bowl games are on, this kind of social pressure weighs heaviest on those most anxious to please. To them, the holidays become a performance and they self-judge with the neurotic cruelty of figure skating judges. (“Ohh, she did not land the correct sweater size on that gift! That’ll cost her half a point!”) This is not the spirit observed in the manger when the baby Jesus was born. It’s not the spirit the Maccabees showed on the eighth day when the lamp in the Temple was still burning. And it’s not the spirit displayed by the

tenant farmer when he downed his third free sherry and said, “You know what I think of you?” That’s why I’m wishing all of you a blasphemous holiday season. I’m wishing you a sprawling drunken uncle of a holiday, that topples convention, offends obligation, inspires years of laughter and stops somewhere short of the police blotter. Because those are the holidays that stick! Have you even been to a wedding that went perfectly? Quick—what do you really remember about it? Nothing, right? Because even though we all aspire to perfection, we cannot relate to it. I probably had a “perfect Christmas” once in my childhood. But it’s lost in memory; buried behind the one where we lost my grandfather at the grocery store; the one where my mom almost decapitated me; the one where my brother threw up on people, and the one where we locked my dad out in the snow. We remember the quirks and gaffes and errors because they let us see the humanity in each other. And that’s the best part of the whole holiday shootin’ match: not that we come together during this time, or get along perfectly, but that we make the effort. It’s our willingness to faithfully and imperfectly (and sometimes comically) connect that shows the very best of us. And that’s the best way to celebrate the holidays. Or you could get hammered and throw potatoes at a lord. That’s good, too. Michael Grady is a Valley-based writer. His eBook, “Death Calls a Meeting,” is available on Amazon.

Bathroom Remodel Special

Remove Old Tub Unit and Install Walk-In or Roll-In Shower Unit or Walk-In Bathtub

Before

Haven Construction Inc. 24-hour Cell: 602-571-9601 No Money Down! Low Monthly Payments O.A.C.

After

ROC #256520

For a Free Estimate 1-888-329-4488

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 7

Sound Off

... from page 6 they had to get to bed before 8. Then, these Americans in danger. How much to top it off, the group is doing their longer are the American people going last song at 8:58 and about half of the to put up with this secretive, overaudience stands up. I thought maybe oppressive government? they were going to give the group a standing ovation. But no, they had to :We just don’t understand why make sure they got to the parking lot the insurance companies are before anyone else. Scads of people so upset over Medicare, when walked out before the last song. Being it forces the people on Medicare to old is no excuse for being rude. get supplemental insurance to get the bills paid? What’s the matter with the I just want to thank you for insurance industry? Don’t they like page 32 through page 33, the having competition? I thought that’s comparisons on HMOs. It was what business was all about. Quit your complaining. Stop calling the president really helpful for us. dirty names. It’s just more business. I Records obtained by USA told you he was a secret Republican. Today show that the Obama Just more business. Wise up you poor administration lied when it Medicare dummies and get your claimed that the over 2,000 illegal supplemental insurance. immigrants that they released from prison only have minor criminal Oh boy. Carman’s back records. The records show that bugging me about the credit among those released were charged card I don’t have. Hitting the with kidnapping, sexual assault, drug annoying buttons—57* or 69*—they trafficking and homicide. Obama has are persistent pains in the neck. There released into society these dangerous ought to be a law against them. Hey criminals, who should have been sent Carman, get the other friends to call back to their countries. He has put all me back! I’ll 57 or 69 you, too.

It is absolutely frightening to know that under the Obama administration, the Internal Revenue Service is used to intimidate and attack those who Obama considers his enemies. Frightening. According to USA Today, people enrolled in Obama care can’t find a doctor who will take them as patients. This is just the tip of the iceberg. When Obamacare is fully implemented, Americans will find out why Pelosi told the Democrats that they would have to pass it to know what’s in it. This bill is a travesty, travesty. Americans will suffer because of what the democrats did to us. The November Lovin’ Life After 50 is out today and full of useful information and public opinion advice. Thanks for printing some of grandma’s. Have you noticed how television is changing, despite public opinion? It used to be you couldn’t see ads about cigarettes, beer and alcoholic drinks. Today, they’ve all been removed and replaced with marijuana, wine and phony smoke. What happened?

Why aren’t the usual nosey reporters hunting down answers of the mystery of the missing money that was donated? Who has it? What bank is holding it? How much is it and who’s withdrawing it that the trust can’t be set up as the judge had ordered? The money is missing, so go find it, nosey buddies. (A big-box store) is a scam artist. They brag about how they honor competitors’ ads. I saw Albertson’s advertising that if you spend $100, you get a free turkey. I took that ad to (the big-box store) and spent $130 in one visit. They told me they wouldn’t honor it. They stated it was a gimmick ad. I’m 60 years old and feel they don’t care about senior citizens on a limited income. I don’t feel they should advertise on TV that they honor other stores’ prices if you can’t or won’t do that. To me, that’s false advertising. During an interview, first lady Michelle Obama said that she gave permission to blacks to eat fried chicken after they voted for ...continues on page 38

Can’t Hear on the Phone? The CapTel® Captioned Telephone allows people with hearing loss to listen to their caller and read everything the caller says. Like captions on TV— for your phone! For under $100 total, you get the phone plus installation, providing you with better phone conversations. No other charges later.

Don’t Miss Another Word! Contact Your Local Outreach Representative Ron Dreyfus • 224-261-4817 CapTel® 840i

Captioned Telephone CapTel Captioned Telephone is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss and is funded and regulated by the FCC.

www.CapTel.com 224-261-4817

page 8 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

The Widow’s Corner Window Shopping

: : by Terry Ratner, RN, MFA

n the late 1990s, after my son, Sky, died in a motorcycle accident, while I was in the depths of my worse dreaminess, I began to order as many catalogs as I could. At least 30 mailorder catalogues came into the house each month and sometimes I’d have to throw a box of them away to allow room for more. During that time, I spent at least one night a week sitting in the breakfast nook leafing through the colorful pages, making Magic Marker checks for the things I wanted, dogearing pages, filling out order blanks with my bankcard numbers (most of which I never mailed) and jotting down important toll-free numbers for when I might want to call. Wish List I had animal-call catalogs, which brought a recording of a dying baby squirrel. Dogcollar catalogs. Catalogs for canvas luggage that would hold up in the Sahara Desert. Catalogs for expeditions to foreign lands with handsome men. Catalogs for every conceivable type of underwear and outerwear; Frenchlaced bras and panties, short and long skirts with collegiate tops, high-fashion dresses, sequin evening gowns, and bathing suits for a tropical vacation to a variety of luxurious port cities in Spain and Mexico. I had rare book catalogs, record catalogs, lawn ornament catalogs from Italy, flower-seed and garden tool catalogs, catalogs for weathervanes, barbecue accessories, exotic animals and women’s Olympic wear catalogs. I had all the catalogs you could wish for, and if I found out about another one, I’d write or call up and request it. I came to believe, for a while, that satisfying all my purchasing needs from catalogs was the very way of life that suited me and my circumstances. I had become the type of person where catalog-buying was better than going out into the world and wasting time in shopping malls or flying to California

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

or New York. Lots of people in my neighborhood did the very same thing and believed that was where the best and most unusual merchandise came from. You could spot the UPS truck on my street daily, dropping off hammocks and neatly framed posters and God knows what else—barbecue grills and custom mailboxes and entire gazebos. Larger than Life For me, though, there was something other than the mere purchase in all this, in the hours spent going through pages seeking the most durable lettuce spinner and beginner’s tool chest. The joy that came from my obsession stemmed from the irresistible life portrayed in these catalogs. Something about my frame of mind after losing my son made me love the abundance of the purely common and pseudo-exotic (which always turns out to be ordinary when I received it). I loved the idea of merchandise and I loved the ordinary good American faces pictured there, people wearing their wedding gowns with white veils and long white gloves, people wearing their warm plaid pajamas, men in their flannel shirts and lumberjack jackets, children sitting up and reading in their comfortable canopy beds, month after month, season after season. We all take our solace where we can. And there seemed like a life— though I couldn’t just send to Atlanta, Vermont or Seattle for it, but a life just the same—that was better than my solitude, melancholy and silence in a small California bungalow set back in a Phoenix historic neighborhood. An old house where unprovoked death had taken its toll. Terry J. Ratner, RN, MFA is a health educator at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center. Visit her website at www.terryratner. com. Send comments to info@terryratner.com.

Proudly Serving Arizona.

Wheelchair Accessible Vans • Sales • Rental Service • 24 Hour Emergency Line Toll Free: 844-448-VANS (8267) PerformanceMobility.com

2140 W. Broadway Rd. #101 Mesa, Arizona 85202

AUTHORIZED DEALER OF:

BraunAbility Minivans & Wheelchair Lifts • Hand Controls V Bruno Scooter Lifters • Braun Rear Entry Vans • Full Size Vans

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 9

News Briefs-Dec. 2014 Give Unto Others in the CAAFA Gift Drive Holiday seasons and gift giving have an intimate relationship. This year, instead of giving gifts to close family and friends, take the opportunity to bless those in need with a thoughtful gift. A gift drive co-sponsored by the Mesa Humana Guidance Center and Community Alliance Against Family Abuse (CAAFA) asks the public to give back to less fortunate members of their community. The gift drive is one of many ways that CAAFA interacts with the East Valley to increase awareness on domestic violence. Gifts can be toys or articles of clothing. Some suggested toys are dolls, trucks and cars, G- and PG-rated DVDs and computer games, dress-up clothes, educational board games, arts and crafts, books and sporting equipment such as bikes and skateboards. New clothing, pajamas, shoes, makeup and underwear can also be gifted. When giving, remember the range of age groups. The children will receive their gifts at the annual CAAFA Christmas Party. Drop off unwrapped gifts by Dec. 12 at the Humana Guidance Center, 5943 E. McKellips Rd., Mesa 85215. CAAFA is a local nonprofit safe house for women and children affected by domestic abuse in its various forms (emotional, physical and sexual). In addition to shelter, CAAFA reaches out to these individuals and families with a 24-hour crisis phone line and weekly support groups. Finally, CAAFA’s legal advocates provide information and resources about personal rights to these women and children. For more information about CAAFA services and efforts against domestic violence, visit www.caafaaz.org. Writers Group Seeking New Members The Red Mountain Writers Group is accepting a limited number of new members. Writers are invited to share their work with other writers to receive encouragement, positive feedback,

constructive criticism and suggestions for publication. Meetings are held Wednesday nights in Mesa. Fiction or nonfiction, published or unpublished writers are welcome. For more information, email redmtnwriters@ cox.net. Sun Health Senior Living Opens New Independent Living Residence Sun Health Senior Living is growing up, so to speak, with the official opening of a four-story villa featuring 36 apartment-style homes. Nearly 200 people turned out for an Oct. 30 ribbon cutting for the Villa, the second such building on The Colonnade campus. Construction on the second Villa began last November, following closely on the heels of the September 2013 opening of the first Villa. The ribbon-cutting event included tours of two model-apartments and common areas, inside and outside the structure. Situated on the 40-acre campus, the second Villa’s floor plans range from one to three bedrooms. Each home comes with high-end floor coverings, cabinetry, appliances and stylish finishing touches. Other amenities include a community art/music room, a movie theater, underground parking for cars and golf cars, extra storage and access to all amenities in Sun City Grand, a nearby active-adult community. PickleballChannel.com Gives FastGrowing Sport an Online Home An oversized Ping-Pong ball volleyed around a badminton-size court with a tennis-size net. That’s how some describe pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the United States, according to Athletic Business magazine. Fastpaced, easy-to-learn and inexpensive to play, pickleball has gained enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels since it was invented in 1965. The number of active pickleball players has nearly doubled in the country since 2010. The Pickleball Channel, powered by Hyland’s Leg Cramps, made its Internet debut earlier this year. Every

Have News?

If you have news you’d like to share with Lovin’ Life After 50 readers, please email items to info@lovinlife.com.

The deadline is the 10th of the month prior to the month of publication.

page 10 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

Raising Money for a Good Cause

he Cameo Foundation and Lovin’ Life After 50’s fifth annual Musical/Dancing Fashion Show to benefit domestic violence victims was held Saturday, Nov. 1, at Union Hills Country Club in Sun City to a sold-out crowd. Beautiful fashions modeled by dancing men, women and children were provided by Dillard’s at Arrowhead Town Center. They performed to the music of Bob Messinger from the Messinger Band. Guest performer was Frank Dimitri from “America’s Got Talent.” For information on Ms. Senior Arizona 2014 Carol Dana the Cameo Foundation, call (602) shows she has the moves during the 788-9556. Photo by Cummins Dancing Musical Fashion Show and Photography, www.cumminsphoto. com. Luncheon.

week, Pickleball Channel brings Web audiences new digital content from the quickly expanding world of pickleball. PickleballChannel.com is an interactive website that provides news and community resources for pickleball players and organizations nationwide. The channel’s Executive Producer Rusty Howes says that with the lightning-speed growth of pickleball, there was a need for exciting digital content online to serve the sport’s growing fanbase. To subscribe to PickleballChannel.com, visit www.pickleballchannel.com. To share story ideas with Pickleball Channel, email share@pickleballchannel.com. For more information on pickleball, visit: www.usapa.org/what-is-pickleball. Genealogical Society Adds New Groups The West Valley Genealogical Society and Library, 12222 N. 111th Ave., Youngtown, has added a new special interest group (SIG), “Writing Your Family History.” As the name suggests, a SIG focuses on a geographical region of the United States, a foreign country, specialized genealogical software or a particular area of interest. This new group shares family histories, ideas for stories and writing tips. There are 16 other groups that also meet monthly to pursue collaborative research ranging from New York to Germany to learning about your DNA. Visit www.azwvgs.org click Events/SIGS for dates and times. Meetings are open to guests; donations are requested. For more information, call (623) 933-4945.

Active Adult Center Offers Chronic Condition Workshop The Mesa Active Adult Center is seeking people who live with heart disease, diabetes, cancer or any other condition being treated on an ongoing basis. The classes meet weekly from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesdays Dec. 3, Dec. 10 and Dec. 17. There will be a break for the two winter holidays and then the group will return to meeting Jan. 7, Jan. 14 and Jan. 21. The workshop is described as a selfmanagement course that is facilitated by two trained leaders following a curriculum developed at Stanford University. This is not a lecture course; the workshop is interactive and encourages group participation. The Mesa Active Adult Center is located at 247 N. Macdonald St., Mesa. For more information, visit www.evaadultresources.org. Celebrate the New Year in ‘Paradise’ The Encores 17-member band will celebrate the 2015 New Year with a dance at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, in the ballroom of Paradise RV Resort, 10950 W. Union Hills Dr., Peoria. Bring your friends, snacks and beverage of your choice and dance, listen or sing along to the music of a big band playing music from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. The tickets, which cost $6, are available at the activities office and at the door. For more information, call (623) 9338620.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Ask Gabby Gayle Advice for the Over-50 Crowd

: : by Gayle M. Lagman-Creswick

ear Gabby Gayle: I’m afraid I’ve made a mistake. I talked my mother into moving into an independent retirement community. She has lived there for two weeks and every time I see her she is crying and wants to move back to her home. She has paid a sizable amount of money to live there and it is a wonderful place. It is not so much that she hates it there; it’s that she misses her home, her neighbors and driving. She had to give up driving because of her vision problems—the reason we wanted her there. They have transportation. Signed, Help!

ear Help: She has not lived there long enough to get adjusted. Loss is hard to overcome even in the healthiest person. She has lost her home, her car, her driving. Be patient with her, and please go to the administration and tell them how your mother is doing. There are many forms of support they can give her. I bet in three months she will like her new life. Please let me know! Signed, GG

ear Gabby Gayle: In the past, you received a letter from someone who had a friend who talked incessantly. My problem is similar only the person who talks constantly is my wife. We have been married just over 50 years. I was able to tune her out for all those years. Now I find that it is getting on my nerves so bad that I have to escape to my room. Maybe I am selfish, but once in a while I would like to talk. She is a good person and is good to me. Sometimes I think I will go crazy and bop her one. What is wrong with me? Signed, Wearing Thin

ear Wearing Thin: First of all, I don’t believe anything is wrong with you. I do believe something is wrong with your wife. It sounds as if she is a compulsive talker, which is a condition that may require counseling. The thing I am wondering is: Did you ever tell her that she talks too much? I am reminded of a young nurse I employed years ago. Several of the other nurses came to me and complained that they

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

could not get their work done because “Margie” (fake name) talked too much. They were afraid she would make a medication error because of this. I had to speak to “Margie” about the excessive talking. Her response was: “In all of my 34 years, no one has ever told me that I talked too much.” I said, “I’m sorry, but I feel that I must tell you, because I care about you and your future.” I am happy to report that the excessive talking ended right there. It may not be that easy with your wife, but maybe no one has ever told her? It is touchy to speak to someone about their intimate personal habits, but it is best addressed by someone who cares about them. Please don’t bop her. If you are serious about that, perhaps some counseling for you is in order too! Good luck, GG

ear Gabby Gayle: It’s that time of year when gift-giving becomes a problem for some of us who are on a fixed income. I know you have addressed this before, but please say it again for my benefit. Thank you, Low on Dough

ear Low on Dough: I have received many good suggestions from my readers on this subject and will pass them on to you. 1. Give a gift of food that keeps on giving throughout the year. One reader baked a pie for her dad once a month for the whole year. He loved it. 2. Begin giving away your prized possessions to your family. Write a little note with the article telling what it meant to you and how you came to own it. 3. Write a story about your childhood that will get lost if you do not write it down. You could probably do a story each month for the year! These are a few ideas that might spark other ideas for you. Signed, GG If you have a question for Gabby Gayle, please send it to: Ask Gabby Gayle c/o Lovin’ Life After 50, 3200 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 or lagmancreswick@cox.net.

GO Find Out If a Reverse Mortgage is Right For You!

Get the Facts From Your Local Reverse Mortgage Specialists, Sun American Mortgage Company, and Take Advantage of the benefits of a Reverse Mortgage! You’ve heard the Celebrity endorsements on TV. Now let a licensed local expert on reverse mortgages help you decide if a reverse mortgage is right for you. Sun American Mortgage Company President Terry Turk wrote the first Reverse Mortgage in Arizona in 1989, and we are still here helping seniors get the financial relief they need. Just call Sun American Mortgage Company for a FREE, no obligation consultation. You may never need to make another mortgage payment again! The Federally Insured and Federally Regulated Reverse Mortgage program is avail-able to Homeowners, 62 or older.

Call Sun American Mortgage Company TODAY for a FREE, NO OBLIGATION application and/or consultation.

Call TODAY! Parker Turk, CPA or Rex Duffin LO-0912436 • NMLS#267132

4140 E. Baseline Rd. Suite 206 Mesa, AZ 85206

Mortgage Banker License #BK7548 • NMLS #160265

LO-0911707 • NMLS # 169138

623.321.3281 or 800.469.7383

www.sunamerican.com Se Habla Español

Happy Holidays New & Used Scooters starting at $500

Southwest Mobility, Inc.

4406 E. Main St., Suite 110 • Mesa, AZ 85205 • (480) 654-2292 15458 N. 99th Ave. • Sun City, AZ 85351 • (623) 875-7296 217 E. Highway 260 • Payson, AZ 85541 • (928) 478-7940

Come by to check out our discount prices on power chairs, scooters, lift chairs, vehicle lifts, compression stockings & bath safety products. EXCEPTIONAL service after the sale.

NOW ON SALE

www.southwestmobility.com toll free: (877) 429-0944 December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 11

Below is a sample of classes offered

Thanks calendar Friendship Ads! December 1 Monday

Parkinson’s Disease Microdose Therapy Treatment Discussion, 2 p.m. Mondays in December, Helen Foundation, 105 S. Delaware Dr., Suite 8, Apache Junction, free, reservations required, (480) 389-5431, ernestogallegos01@gmail.com.

Diabetic Connection Support Group – Holiday Special Wednesday, Dec. 17 3 to 4 p.m. Take a Tour of the Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing Tuesdays, Dec. 2 & 16 11:30 to noon

December 2 Tuesday Tai Chi Class, 4:30 p.m. to 5:15 p.m., Tuesdays except Dec. 23 and 30, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, rotates between Chandler, Gilbert and Mesa locations, free, (480) 855-2224, www.ironwoodcrc.com.

Setting SMART Goals for the New Year Tuesday, Dec. 9 2 to 3 p.m. Fabulous Fiber Thursday, Dec. 4 10 to 11 a.m. Memory Care Caregiver Support Group Tuesdays, Dec. 2 & 16 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Stand Up to Falling Down Thursday, Dec. 11 9 to 10 a.m.

Do you want to meet new people? Place a Friendship Ad Today!

(480) 348-0343 Ask to speak with Rochelle.

Give Yourself the Gift of a Healthier Holiday Season Thursday, Dec. 11 2 to 3 p.m. Add Strength to Your Routine Thursday, Dec. 18 2 to 3 p.m.

Wishing You a Safe & Healthy Holiday Season! The Center for Health & Wellbeing will be closed from noon Dec. 24 through Dec. 26, and from 3 p.m. Dec. 31 through Jan. 2.

Location Sun Health Center for Health & Wellbeing Community Room 14719 W. Grand Ave. Surprise, AZ

Registration is Required Call (623) 223-8865

Extraordinary Home Care at Affordable Rates • Caregiver screening process • Ongoing FREE in-home visits • Private pay, VA or LTC Insurance • Licensed, Bonded and Insured • Experienced Alzheimers, MS, Parkinsons and ALS Caregivers

Chair Yoga Class, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Tuesdays except Dec. 23 and 30, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 3686 S. Rome St., Gilbert, free, (480) 340-4013, www. ironwoodcrc.com. Tour of Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing, 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., repeats Dec. 16, Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Learn how Sun Health can help prevent and manage chronic illnesses.

page 12 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

The Aging Eye, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Grandview Terrace Santa Fe Dining Room, 14515 W. Granite Valley Dr., Sun City West, free, registration required, (623) 4555633. Arizona Eye Institute’s Dr. Misty Cox explains what happens to eyes as age.

Chronic Pain Microdose Therapy Treatment Discussion, 2 p.m. Thursdays in December, except Christmas, Helen Foundation, 105 S. Delaware Dr., Suite 8, Apache Junction, free, reservations required, (480) 389-5431, ernestogallegos01@gmail.com.

Country Store, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa, free admission, (480) 832-3844. Come do your Christmas shopping here and have breakfast and/or lunch as well.

December 5 Friday

December 3 Wednesday

Healthy U

Society for the Arts Social, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., Olive and Ivy, 7135 E. Camelback Rd., Scottsdale, $2, (480) 751-2200. Join the Society for the Arts at this Testanidesigned hotspot.

You Can Exercise Safely with High Blood Pressure, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Banner Boswell Medical Center Support Services Building, Juniper Room, 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633.

Call for your FREE no-obligation Care Proposal

For valuable home care info and resources: www.GriswoldHomeCareGC.com

December 4 Thursday

Memory Care Caregiver Support Group, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., repeats Dec. 16, Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, (623) 455-5633.

MS Disease Microdose Therapy Treatment Discussion, 2 p.m. Tuesdays in December, Helen Foundation, 105 S. Delaware Dr., Suite 8, Apache Junction, free, reservations required, (480) 389-5431, ernestogallegos01@gmail.com.

480-999-7000

Fibromyalgia Microdose Therapy Treatment Discussion, 2 p.m. Wednesdays in December, Helen Foundation, 105 S. Delaware Dr., Suite 8, Apache Junction, free, reservations required, (480) 389-5431, ernestogallegos01@gmail.com.

Fabulous Fiber: Healthy Benefits and Strategies to Meet Your Needs, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Registration dietitian Tracy Garrett discusses the many benefit of consuming a diet that contain adequate fiber.

All Inclusive Rates: $17.00/Hour / Live-in $200/Day 12 Hour Shifts $15.00/Hour Companionship $13.00/Hour

Visit SunHealth.org

14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, $5, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Beginners are welcome are this strength-training class led by health coach Rhonda Zonoozi.

Chair Yoga Class, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Wednesdays except Dec. 24 and 31, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler, free, (480) 3404013, www.ironwoodcrc.com. Strength Training for Health, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room,

The Valley Engineering, Science and Technology Club, 11:30 a.m., first Friday of every month, Briarwood Country Club, 20800 N. 135th Ave., Sun City West, $18, (623) 544-0942, www.engineersaz.com. After the luncheon, Professor Braden Allenby, distinguished sustainability scientist of the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Institute, will discuss the rapid changes in several technologies. “Tidings of Joy” 2014 Holiday Concert, 7 p.m., Chaparral Christian Church, 6451 E. Shea Blvd., Scottsdale, $20, $15 students and seniors, (602) 4644100. The North Valley Chorale concert will include J.S. Bach’s “Magnificat,” as well as a selection of favorite holiday songs. Arthritis/Neuropathy Microdose Therapy Treatment Discussion, 2 p.m. Fridays in December, except Dec. 26, Helen Foundation, 105 S. Delaware Dr.,

Have a Very Merry Christmas! Suite 8, Apache Junction, free, reservations required, (480) 389-5431, ernestogallegos01@gmail.com. December 6 Saturday Sons of Norway Annual Lutefisk-Meatball Dinner and Bake Sale, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 1844 E. Dana Ave., Mesa, $17, (480) 986-1009, t.l.birk@juno.com. The Sons of Norway are dedicated to preserving the culture and heritage of all Scandinavian countries. Guests will be treated to lefse (traditional specially treated cod), desserts, coffee and live Norwegian music. The dinner and bake sale raise money for food banks and shelters. “Christmas Letters,” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Skyline High School, 845 S. Crismon Rd., Mesa, $5 to $15, (480) 9477464, www.sopchorus.org. The Spirit of Phoenix Chorus and Quartets present a variety of favorite Christmas songs. Holiday Boutique, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Epiphany Lutheran Church, 800 W. Ray Rd., Chandler, free admission, (480) 963-6105, sue@betterbuyerinsurance. com. Epiphany Lutheran Church invites the community to peruse the holiday boutique/craft sale. December 7 Sunday “Christmas Letters,” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Lord of Life Lutheran Church, 13724 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West, $15, (623) 584-2000, www.sopchorus.org. The Spirit of Phoenix Chorus and Quartets present a variety of favorite Christmas songs. December 8 Monday Breast Cancer Support Group, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., second Monday of each month, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler, free, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com Prostate Cancer Support Group, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., second Monday of each month, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler, free, (480) 340-4013, www.ironwoodcrc.com West Valley Genealogical Society Meeting, 1:30 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 12225 N. 103rd Ave., Sun City, (623) 933-4945, www.azwvgs.org. Cindy Patricki will lecture on the resources available at the McClellan Irish Library and how to effectively use them. Sun Lakes Democratic Club, 7 p.m., Sun Lakes Country Club’s Navajo Room, 25601 N. Sun Lakes Blvd., Sun Lakes, nonperishable food donation, (480) 8951162. There will not be a speaker at this meeting. Instead,

the meeting will focus on the election of officers and board members for the next term, a review of the past year and discussion of other plans for club activities. Better Breathers Club, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., The Colonnade, Recreation Village, 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. This monthly education and support group is for those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Nutrition for Osteoporosis: Keeping Your Bones Strong, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Registered dietitian Tracy Garrett will discuss lifestyle interventions that adults can make to keep their bones strong and prevent injury. December 9 Tuesday Mesa Women’s Connection’s Christmas Boutique Brunch, 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., Superstition Springs Golf Club, 6542 E. Baseline Rd., Mesa, $13, (480) 254-4083, (480) 276-9437. Reservations include a craft and bake sale, a silent auction and a live auction. Entertainment will be provided by singer Becky Medaris and speaker Donna Yecke, “What’s It All About?” Financial Planning at Year End, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., La Loma Village, 14154 S. Denny Blvd., Litchfield Park, free, registration required, (623) 445-5633. Time to get your financial house in order. Taking Care of Your Heart: Monthly Series, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Banner Boswell Medical Center Support Services Building, Memorial Hall West, 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. The free education series teaches people about their hearts and how to manage chronic heart disease. Setting SMART Goals for the New Year, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, (623) 455-5633. Learn how to develop a compelling vision and set goals that are specific, measureable, actionoriented, realistic and timely to achieve the behavior changes in 2015. December 10 Wednesday East Valley Michigan Club’s Christmas Party, 2 p.m., Golden Corral, 1868 N. Power Rd., Mesa, charge for food, (480) 610-9864, (480) 986-7085, jilanctot@cox. net. In lieu of gifts, make a charitable donation. ...continues on page 14

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 13

calendar

... from page 13 Circuit Training, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sun Health Center (623) 933-0217, (623) 444-4293, mwholick@gmail.com. for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Features speaker Judy Scharfenberg and Christmas music. Grand Ave., Surprise, $5, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Stations will be set up around the room, December 13 Saturday featuring resistance bands, small hand weights, stability Benefit Concert for Foothills Food Bank, 4 p.m., ballsm a step and more. Desert Foothills Lutheran Church, 29305 N. Scottsdale December 11 Thursday

Save Up To

60 0ff %

Your Dental Fees!

The Southwest Dental Plan is a reduced fee plan for individuals, families and seniors. Join the thousands of smiling people who are Southwest Dental Plan members! No annual or lifetime maximums Pre-existing conditions are covered Now with 20 convenient locations in Arizona!

Plans starting at $59/year No waiting periods No deductibles No claim forms

Join Our Plan Today!

602-814-0544 www.gentledentalarizona.com

Basic Cleaning

Molar Root Canal

Dental Crown

(Adult)

(Porcelain/Ceramic)

Usual Fee: $106

Usual Fee: $1196

Usual Fee: $1,396

Advantage Plan: $55 48% Savings!

Advantage Plan: $897 25% Savings!

Advantage Plan: $900 34% Savings!

Silver Plan: $53 50% Savings!

Silver Plan: $837 30% Savings!

Silver Plan: $855 42% Savings!

Fees based on current SIL and ADV Dental fees. Please see website or plan brochure for details.

With Purchase of Southwest Dental Plan

$50 Off Dental Treatment ®

New patients only. With Southwest Dental Plan Purchase. Hygiene services excluded. Insurance limitations and exclusions will apply, coupon only valid for cash patients. Valid only at participating locations. Not valid with other offers or prior service. No cash value. Services provided by an Arizona licensed general dentist. Expires 3-31-2015.

The Southwest Dental Plan is accepted at all Arizona Gentle Dental & Southwest Dental Group locations! The Southwest Dental Group. Gentle Dental and Southwest Dental Plan and their logos are registered service marks of the InterDent Service Corporation. InterDent provides business support services to independent dentists, but does not practice dentistry. Services provided by an Arizona licensed dentist.

CapTel: Captioned Telephone Lecture, 12:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Leckey Center at Ed Robson Branch Library, 9330 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, free, (602) 652-3000, halib72@gmail.com, reggiefaith@gmail.com. Ron Dreyfus will talk about the benefits of the entire CapTel product line and demonstrate real-time captioning. Sun Lakes Chorale’s Holiday Concert, 7 p.m., Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, $10, (480) 883-6997 www.sunlakeschorale.com. The concert features mixed voices, solos and instrumental accompaniments directed by Cristine Temple-Evans. Stand Up to Falling Down, 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Get information about personal risk factors and how to protect yourself and reduce your fall risk in your home and surroundings. VA Benefits and Long Term Care, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Grandview Terrace Santa Fe Dining Room, 14515 W. Granite Valley Dr., Sun City West, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Daniel Nunez, director of Elder Client Services with Jackson White Attorneys at Law, presents an overview of the benefits available through the Veterans Administration and Arizona’s Medicaid program. Give Yourself the Gift of a Healthier Holiday Season, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Join this lively discussion on recipe modifications, food substitutions and healthy holiday eating tips that are easy and will have you celebrating come Jan. 2. December 12 Friday Greater West Valley Women’s Connection, 12 p.m., Corte Bella Country Club, 22129 N. Mission Dr., Sun City West, $23, (623) 255-5352. Lisa Patterson, a mother of seven, will discuss how life can go from pieces to purpose. Understanding Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., The Colonnade Recreation Village, 19116 Colonnade Way, Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. A vascular surgeon will highlight the known risk factors, diagnosis and management of this vascular disease.

page 14 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

Sun City Christian Women’s Club Brunch, 9 a.m., Sun City Country Club, 9433 N. 107th Ave., Sun City, $15,

Rd., Scottsdale, $20, (480) 585-8006, www.dflcconcerts. org. Help kick off the holiday season with the Orpheus Male Chorus of Phoenix. A reception will directly follow the concert. Pancake Breakfast, 7 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa, $3.50 at the door, (480) 832-9003. December 14 Sunday “Canticles in Candlelight,” 8:15 a.m. and 10 a.m., Sun Lakes United Methodist Church, 9248 E. Riggs Rd., Sun Lakes, free, (480) 895-8766, www.sunlakesumc.org. The Chancel choir, directed by composer Joseph Martin, will perform the Christmas Cantata accompanied by a 22-piece orchestra, music, prayers, poetry and candle lighting. December 15 Monday Caregiving During the Holidays, 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Church of the Palms, 14808 N. Boswell Blvd., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Darlene Turner, director of the West Valley Enrichment Center, will discuss how the holiday season can be a time of peacefulness and meaningful connections. Managing Fecal Incontinence, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., Faith Presbyterian Church, 16000 N. Del Webb Blvd., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. A boardcertified surgeon in colon and rectal surgery will discuss this problem affecting the health and self-esteem of many seniors. December 16 Tuesday Mindful Eating, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Banner Boswell Medical Center Support Services, Juniper Room, 13180 N. 103rd Dr., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Join a registered dietitian to learn techniques to improve your health by practicing mindfulness. December 17 Wednesday May your Hanukkah shine bright with happiness and peace from all of us at Lovin’ Life After 50. Christmas Concert, 4:40 p.m., Desert Palms Presbyterian Church, 13459 W. Stardust Blvd., Sun City West, free, (623) 584-4602, www.desertpalmschurch. org. Directed by Wendy Fentiman, the Christmas Concert features a 27-voice choral ensemble and Faith Journey, a women’s vocal sextet. Diabetes Connection Support Group’s Holiday Special, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave.,

Happy New Year

2015

Surprise, free, (623) 455-5633. The topic will be holiday eating and all attendees are invited to bring a healthy snack to share as well as the recipe. December 18 Thursday

businesses in a vibrant event that showcases downtown Phoenix as a prime location for healthy activities.

Society for the Arts Social, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., ELEMENTS Sanctuary Resort, 5700 E. McDonald Dr., Scottsdale, $2, (480) 602-2300. Join the Society for the Arts at the Sanctuary restaurant led by Chef Beau MacMillan.

Phoenix Suns vs. Dallas Mavericks, 7 p.m., US Airways Center, 201 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, $25 and up, (800) 745-3000, www.usairwayscenter.com.

Add Strength to Your Routine, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Sun Health Center for Health and Wellbeing, Community Room, 14719 W. Grand Ave., Surprise, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. This informative class will present the benefits of adding strengthening exercises to your routine. December 19 Friday The Latest in Alzheimer’s Prevention Research and Clinical Trials, 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., El Dorado of Sun City, 10330 W. Thunderbird Blvd., Sun City, free, registration required, (623) 455-5633. Brian Browne of the Banner Sun Health Research Institute presents information on new clinical trials aimed at preventing Alzheimer’s disease that are being conducted in the Northwest Valley. December 20 Saturday Caregiver Support Group, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., third Saturday of each month, Ironwood Cancer and Research Centers, 685 S. Dobson Rd., Chandler, free, (480) 3404013, www.ironwoodcrc.com. Support group for caregivers of people with cancer. December 21 Sunday

Holidays! FOR THE

Enjoy and connect this holiday season with Quality Digital Zounds Hearing Aids! Our close connections with friends and loved ones are among the most valued things in life, especially the moments we gather with family – these are the things that matter most. Hearing loss can rob us of those moments. It doesn’t have to. See for yourself how Zounds advanced hearing technology can benefit you.

December 23 Tuesday

December 24 Wednesday Have a joyous Christmas Eve from all of us at Lovin’ Life After 50. December 25 Thursday

Available only at Zounds® Hearing Centers.

Merry Christmas from all of us at Lovin’ Live After 50. December 26 Friday Motown Holiday Party, 8 p.m., Vee Quiva Event Center, 15091 Komatke Ln., Laveen, $10, (800) 946-4452, www.wingilariver.com/vee-quiva. December 27 Saturday Fiesta Bowl Parade, 11 a.m., Central Phoenix, Central Avenue and Bethany Home Road, free to $25, www. fiestabowl.org/events/fiesta-bowl-parade.php. December 28 Sunday “The Nutcracker,” 1 p.m., Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix, $25 to $163, (602) 381-1096, www. balletaz.org. This is your last chance to see the holiday classic before it closes for the year. December 29 Monday Phoenix Coyotes vs. Philadelphia Flyers, 7 p.m., Gila River Arena, 9400 W. Maryland, Glendale, $35 and up, (800) 745-3000, www.ticketmaster.com. December 30 Tuesday

Polka Club of Arizona, 1 p.m., Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa, call for charge, (480) 832-3844.

Las Noches de Las Luminarias, 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, $12.50 to $30, (480) 481-8188, www.dbg.org/ events-exhibitions/las-noches-de-las-luminarias

December 22 Monday

December 31 Wednesday

Meet Me Downtown Phoenix Social Walk/Run, 5:15 p.m., The Corner at CityScape, 50 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix, free, www.meetmedowntownphx.com/. Its mission is to bring people of all ages to downtown Phoenix for a weekly social walk/run, engaging individuals and

Circle K New Year’s Eve Block Party on Mill, 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., Downtown Tempe along Mill Avenue, Tempe, $15 in advance, www.downtowntempe.com, info@solutionsaz. com. Ring in 2015 with interactive games, activities, musical entertainment and more on Mill Avenue.

Got an Event?

Send it to info@lovinlifeafter50.com

COUPON

Coffee Club, 8:30 a.m., Edward Jones, 13236 N. Seventh St., Suite 6, Phoenix, (602) 866-6309. Discuss current events, the economy and investing in a relaxed, informal setting.

Hear Better

$1,000 OFF! PER AID *

• Noise Cancellation • Accurate Programming • Amazing Clarity

20 Programmable Channels

in your current hearing aids and we’ll PLUS:Trade take an additional $500 off your purchase!

(1)

FREE Charging Station • FREE Remote Control(2) when you purchase a pair of Imprezo® 20 Hearing Aids

Expires 12/31/14

YOUR INSURANCE COVERAGE MAY PAY FOR YOUR ZOUNDS HEARING AIDS! Call us today to confirm your coverage and benefit reimbursement amount!

Call today for a FREE Hearing Exam! Mesa (480) 389-3448

Sun City West/Surprise (623) 207-7124

Phoenix-West (602) 652-2405

Paradise Valley (602) 633-9438

Sun Lakes/Chandler (480) 422-2019

Scottsdale North (480) 751-1361

Phoenix-Central (602) 633-9344

Tempe (480) 422-4415

Sun City (623) 207-8323

www.ZoundsHearing.com

*Discount on full MSRP of $3199. (1) Limit one Trade-in discount per customer. (2) Limit 1 remote and charger per customer with purchase of a pair of Imprezo® 20 aids. Present this ad at Zounds Hearing Center. Expires 12/31/14. Not valid with other offers. Void where prohibited. © 2014 Zounds Hearing, Inc.

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 15

Entertainment Three Dog Night Concentrates on the Hits A

::by Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

fter 48 years in Three Dog Night, Danny Hutton knows what he likes when it comes to music. He’s quick to dole out advice to burgeoning bands as well as veterans. “I personally don’t like it when I go see a band—especially a younger band—and they say, ‘We’re hip and we’re not going to cop out and do the hits. We’re going to do all new stuff,” says Hutton during a recent phone interview. “I want to say, ‘Come on kid. We’ve been together almost 48 years. We’ve seen it all.’” That said, Three Dog Night is known for doing the hits like “Joy to the World” and “Shambala” during performances, which includes a Friday, Dec. 12, gig at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler. “We’re going to do the hits—and sound like the record,” Hutton says. “We’re going to do a couple deep album cuts and a couple of new songs. Those are the songs where people can go to the bathroom. It’s funny. It happens even with (Paul) McCartney.” The new song to which he’s referring is the popular a cappella number “Prayer of the Children.” “It’s all six of us,” he says. “You gotta concentrate on that one, boy.” Three Dog Night’s music has stayed relevant thanks to horror movies by Rob Zombie, as well as the films “Forrest Gump,” “The Big Chill” and “Boogie Nights.” With his band the Danny Hutton Hitters, he contributed the song “Wouldn’t It Be Good” to the “Pretty in Pink” soundtrack. Hutton has imparted his knowledge on his sons, namely Dash, the drummer for the pop group Haim. His other son, Tim, worked with reggae singer Jimmy Cliff on the album “Rebirth.” Hutton also loves to share stories about his band’s career. “When we first played England, we did small clubs,” he shares. “I played in

Fun & Games Around The Valley December 2014 Country Cowboy Christmas Show The OK Chorale performs. WHEN: Wed., Dec. 3, at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Sunland Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: $6, includes dessert INFO: (480) 832-9003 Gloey & Joey The Merrymakers Ballroom Dance Club welcomes Gloey & Joey during its Thursday evening of dance. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 4, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. WHERE: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa COST: $7 to $8 INFO: (480) 570-4142 or www.dancemm.com

Danny Hutton, center, is one of three singers in Three Dog Night. a club and I’d met a songwriter. They records. You had to sell a million, at didn’t want to give us a lot of people least, to get those. But the reason I for the guest list, so we snuck him in as bring that up is you can still survive and one of our roadies. He was Elton John do well doing live shows. The records are a calling card just so people can or Reggie Dwight. We snuck in Reg.” Born in Ireland, Hutton has no come and see you. If you’re a good live sign of an accent. Spending time in act, you’re going to do well.” These days, Three Dog Night England as well, he was friends with performs mostly one-nighters at venues Harry Nilsson. “The apartment below him had a that range in size from 1,500-seat maid service and all that stuff,” he says. former vaudeville theaters to outdoor “Harry was crazy. I liked Harry a lot. summer festivals that attract around I didn’t realize that Keith Moon died 35,000 fans. “It’s different every night,” Hutton in his apartment and Cass (Elliot) died in his apartment. He traveled a lot so says. “I love doing the hits though. people used to use it. Steve Marriott I’ve got to tell you. Even if we go was downstairs. I was friends with back to a city and it’s been a long Marc Bolan, too. Marc used to come time, 80 percent of the people are new. Just knowing that we’re going to over. It was crazy.” Hutton explains that music hasn’t get the reaction we’re going to get, it changed over the years, despite what brings back a lot of good memories. others may say. The delivery of it has I’d rather do that than do new songs every night watching people say, evolved, however. “I get a kick out of looking at the ‘What the hell?’” charts at the back of Rolling Stone where Three Dog Night performs at 8 p.m. they show No. 10, for example, just moved into the charts with 28,000 Friday, Dec. 12, at Wild Horse Pass Hotel and Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., units sold,” he says. “That is just such a joke. We are lucky Chandler. Tickets are $35 to $79. For more enough to sell lots of records. I have information, call (800) WIN-GILA or visit a hallway full of gold and platinum www.wingilariver.com.

page 16 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

KMLE’s Not So Silent Night Slated to perform are country acts Big and Rich, Darius Rucker, Jake Owen and Gloriana. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 4, at 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix COST: $39 to $45 INFO: (602) 379-2800 or www.comericatheatre.com John Prine The American country, folk singer and songwriter has been performing since the early 1970s. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 4, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix COST: $43 to $78 INFO: (602) 267-1600 or www.celebritytheatre.com Bob Newhart Bob Newhart’s career has spanned two successful television shows and 14 feature films. He has sold millions of albums worldwide and still performs in soldout venues nationwide. WHEN: Fri., Dec. 5, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler COST: $45 to $99 INFO: (877) 840-0457 or www.wingilariver.com Sunland Songsters Choir Christmas Concert The Songsters, a choral music group, put on their annual Christmas concert. There are two performance dates; tickets can be used at either performance. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 6, at 7:30 p.m.; and Sun., Dec. 7, at 2:30 p.m. ...continues on page 17

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Entertainment Fun & Games Around the Valley ... from page 16 WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: $5 INFO: (480) 832-9003 Mary Hollan For more than 20 years, Mary Hollan has provided the retirement community in Arizona with quality shows, which includes “A Very Mary Christmas.” WHEN: Sat., Dec. 6, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa COST: $10 to $12 INFO: (480) 832-3844 or gvactivities@gmail.com Patti LaBelle Belting out classic rhythm and blues renditions, pop standards and spiritual sonnets have created the unique platform of versatility for which Patti LaBelle is known. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 6, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler COST: $69 to $159 INFO: (877) 840-0457 or www.wingilariver.com Charlie Daniels Band The show will feature the greatest hits and holiday classics. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St., Phoenix COST: $38 to $68 INFO: (602) 267-1600 or www.celebritytheatre.com Manuel Dorantes The Merrymakers Ballroom Dance Club welcomes Manuel Dorantes during its Thursday evening of dance. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 11, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. WHERE: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa COST: $7 to $8 INFO: (480) 570-4142 or www.dancemm.com Three Dog Night Legendary music icons celebrate their fourth decade of performing music. WHEN: Fri., Dec. 12, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler COST: $35 to $79 INFO: (877) 840-0457 or www.wingilariver.com “Ebenezer, the Musical” True to the original story and loaded with original songs and music, a tale of genuine repentance. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa COST: $12 to $18 INFO: (480) 832-3844 or gvactivities@gmail.com

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Alice Cooper’s Christmas Pudding The Christmas Pudding benefits Solid Rock and The Rock Teen Center and brings together some of the finest musicians, dancers, TV and film actors and comedians. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix COST: $38 to $128 INFO: (602) 379-2800 or www.comericatheatre.com

y pp Ha days ily i l m Ho ur fa ! o urs m fro to yo

Come join our first happy residents at the newest Assisted Living Community in the area! We are dedicated to our residents and the only Assisted Living in the West Valley that offers “anytime dining!” Let us show you what makes Park Wood so special, visit us for a tour!

14581 W. Park Wood Drive • Surprise, AZ 85374 (623) 566-5026 • www.jeaseniorliving.com

Vikki Carr Vikki Carr is celebrating her fifth decade in music, which includes more than 60 best-selling records. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 13, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Ovations LIVE! Showroom at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, 5040 Wild Horse Pass Blvd., Chandler COST: $25 to $70 INFO: (877) 840-0457 or www.wingilariver.com Jerry Riopelle Seamlessly intertwining elements of blues, rock, jazz and reggae, Jerry Riopelle continues to turn hit after hit such as “Walkin’ on Water,” “Red Ball Texas Flyer” and “Easy Drive.” WHEN: Sat., Dec. 13, at 8 p.m. WHERE: The Showroom at Talking Stick Resort, 9800 Indian Bend Rd., Scottsdale COST: $25 to $75 INFO: (480) 850-7734 or www.talkingstickresort.com Rockabilly Concert Back by popular demand, Todd Meredith and the Rave-On (Buddy Holly tribute band) with Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in Arizona for a week and Sunland Village is on their tour calendar. WHEN: Tues., Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: $15 INFO: (480) 832-9003 Moscow Ballet’s “Great Russian Nutcracker” Celebrate the beloved Christmas tradition with the whole family as 40 world-class Russian artists bring the charming classic to life. WHEN: Wed., Dec. 17, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Comerica Theatre, 400 W. Washington St., Phoenix COST: $20 to $85 INFO: (602) 379-2800 or www.comericatheatre.com Erv Reutzel The Merrymakers Ballroom Dance Club welcomes Erv Reutzel during its Thursday evening of dance. WHEN: Thurs., Dec. 18, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. WHERE: Las Palmas Grand, 2550 S. Ellsworth Rd., Mesa ...continues on page 23

www.coppercanyon.com 866-780-2813

RIDE FREFREEE $ AND 10 PLAY

CATCH A SHUTTLE BUS TO THE GILA RIVER CASINOS!

Call 1-800-946-4452, 3 ext. 7256, 8207 teorbus140 schedule.

Visit WinGilaRiver.com for comple Live in Tucson? Charter buses available for groups of 45 or more.

Santan 202 & Kyrene

I-10 and Wild Horse Pass Boulevard

51st Avenue | 4 Miles South of Baseline

Owned and operated by the Gila River Indian Community. *$10 in Free Bonus Play. Some restrictions apply. See Players Club for details.

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 17

Entertainment Tinseltown Talks

James Drury’s Next Generation ‘Virginian’ : : by Nick Thomas

hile today’s television landscape “It’s called ‘Billy and the Bandit’ is littered with so-called reality aimed at 8- to 10-year-olds, but adults programming, westerns dominated can enjoy it, too,” says Drury from his the airways in the 1960s. One of the home in Houston. “Billy is the great, most popular was “The great, grandson Virginian,” which ran of ‘The Virginian’ for nine seasons on NBC and confined to from 1962-1971, and a wheelchair. He starred James Drury as the is told tales of unnamed, mystery foreman the Old West by of the Shiloh ranch, set in his grandfather, Medicine Bow, Wyoming. played by me, and Drury celebrated his 80th fantasizes about birthday in April and, far western adventures from retiring, continues to as he falls asleep. travel the country greeting All kinds of stories fans at western festivals come out of that.” (see www.thevirginian.net). James Drury in “The Virginian.” With the pilot He is also resurrecting his tough but script completed and cast and crew honorable cowboy character in a new filming, Drury reunites in the new show for kids that combines live action series with his old “Virginian” costars, and animation. Roberta Shore and Gary Clarke.

“It’s an exciting project. We’re looking forwarded to telling some great stories for families every week,” Drury says. Broadcast on cable’s INSP TV, “The Virginian” has remained popular with audiences for more than 50 years. Drury isn’t surprised. “It was the first James Drury today. 90-minute western on TV and that gave our writers an opportunity to explore detailed stories,” he explains. “It was like doing a movie every week. We also had a wonderful cast of continuing characters, and with the great writing, the finest actors in Hollywood wanted guest starring roles: George C. Scott, Bette Davis, Joan Crawford and Robert Redford come to mind. Every day I’d go off to the set excited about the wonderful actors I’d be working with.” But starring in a weekly 90-minute series was demanding. “Some days we would be filming parts of five different episodes, so it required a lot of mental concentration,” Drury

says. “I had a strong work ethic, so didn’t mind. I did the show for nine years, but would have been delighted to continue for another 10!” With his rugged good looks and wrangling experience, Drury was a natural TV cowboy. “I’ve been riding horses since I was in diapers!” says Drury. “My grandfather put me on his Belgian plow horse when I was just a toddler. The animal was so broad, my legs stuck straight out on both sides like I was doing the splits. It’s one of my earliest memories.” Born in New York City, Drury spent time growing up on his parents’ Oregon ranch and developed an interest in acting after performing in a Christmas play as a child. He later returned to New York for stage work before moving to Hollywood. Drury has lived in Houston with his wife, Carl Ann, for 35 years. Off-screen he has competed in cutting horse competitions, polo and dressage. “Texas has been good to me,” Drury says. “I’ve worked with many great horse trainers here and up through Oklahoma. I love it all—the dust, the sweat, the sunshine and the smell of the horses.” As he did in “The Virginian,” Drury plans to bring his love of the old West to Spacious plans, up to 1523 sq. ft. ‘Billy and the Bandit’ and is confident • Full size washers and dryers • Full•in size Full home •washers size Full • Full washers size•size and washers washers dryers and dryers and infloor and dryers home indryers home in home in home audiences will embrace the show. • Full size washers and dryers in home • Community bus • Community • Community • Community • Community bus bus busbus “There are so many cable channels • Community bus • Walk in showers • Walk • Walk in•showers Walk in• Walk showers in showers in showers now looking for new content,” he says. • Walk in showers “Westerns were morality plays where • Gated community & elevator • Gated • Gated access community • Gated •community Gated community &community elevator & elevator &access elevator & elevator accessaccess access • Gated community & elevator access good always triumphed over evil and • Pet friendly • Pet•friendly Pet •friendly Pet • Pet friendly people respond to that. Our show •friendly Pet friendly 13638 North Newcastle 13638 13638 Dr. North 13638 13638 North Newcastle North North Newcastle Newcastle Newcastle Dr. Dr. Dr. Dr. those values of the Old West. retains • 30 day Good Life Guarantee • 30 day • 30Good day • 30•Good day 30 Life day Guarantee Life Guarantee LifeLife Guarantee Guarantee •Good 30Good day Good Life Guarantee Parents and grandparents can watch Sun pool/spa City, AZ 85351SunSun City, Sun City, Sun AZ City, AZ 85351 City, AZ 85351 AZ 85351 85351 • Heated pool/spa • Heated • Heated pool/spa • Heated • pool/spa Heated pool/spa •pool/spa Heated it with the kids, and that’s a valuable • WiFi - iPads available family experience these days.” • WiFi HotSpot - iPads available • WiFi • WiFi HotSpot • WiFi HotSpot • WiFi -HotSpot iPads HotSpot - iPads available - HotSpot iPads available - iPads available available

SUN CITY’S SUN SUN SUN SUN CITY’S CITY’S CITY’S CITY’S SUN CITY’S KEPT SECRET BEST BEST KEPT BEST BEST BEST BEST SECRET KEPT KEPT KEPT KEPT SECRET SECRET SECRET SECRET SUN CITY’S T KEPT SECRET Spacious andSpacious bright Spacious Spacious Spacious and and bright and and bright bright bright 1 & 2 bedroom 1 &1 2&1bedroom 21&Spacious bedroom &2 2bedroom bedroom and bright homes homes homes homes nd bright 1homes & 2 bedroom homes

droom mes

d dryers in home

& elevator access

(855) 836-0982 (855) (855) (855) (855) 836-0982 836-0982 836-0982 836-0982

13638 North Dr. Newcastle Dr.AZ 85351 uarantee 13638 North Newcastle • Sun City, • maintenance 24maintenance hour maintenance • 24 hour maintenance • 24 hour • 24 hour •maintenance 24• hour 24 maintenance hour guarantee guarantee guarantee guarantee guarantee Sun City, AZ 85351 guarantee

PlaceAtFountains.com PlaceAtFountains.com PlaceAtFountains.com PlaceAtFountains.com PlaceAtFountains.com Nick Thomas teaches at Auburn University • Cart Golf Cartstations charging (855) • Golf836-0982 Cart charging stations • Golf • Golf Cart • Golf Cart charging • Golf Cart charging stations charging charging stations stations stations at Montgomery, Alabama, and has written

www.ThePlaceAtFountains.com (855) 836-0982

features, columns and interviews for more than 450 magazines and newspapers.

page 18 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

ds available

ce guaranteeOffice Hours: M-F 8:30-5, Sat 10-3, Sun Closed

stations

PlaceAtFountains.com

entertainment ... answers on page 42 Even Exchange by Donna Pettman Each numbered row contains two clues and two answers. The two answers differ from each other by only one letter, which has already been inserted. For example, if you exchange the A from MASTER for an I, you get MISTER. Do not change the order of the letters.

Sudoku Time Place a number in the empty boxes in such a way that each row across, each column down and each small 9-box square contains all of the numbers from one to nine.

DIFFICULTY THIS MONTH H H H Moderate HH Challenging HHH HOO BOY! HHHH Put on your helmet!

Across 1. Rice field 6. Column crossers 10. Falling flakes 14. Side with 15. Olympic event 16. Patagonia ___ 17. Start to be sorry? 18. Sword handle 19. Bring home the bacon 20. 3X NBA All Star who was drafted out of the University of Arizona 23. Lunch 24. Small taste 25. Measuring instrument 30. Guff 31. Springs area 34. Send, on a computer 35. Renovate 36. Hem and __ (be indecisive) 37. Arizonan who was the first native American woman to die in combat 41. Kind of nut 42. Squad 43. Mountain lakes 44. Valuable deposit 45. Have, free and clear 46. Remember fondly 48. Romaine lettuce 49. Pal in the ‘hood 50. Otherworldly local sightings 57. Fat for cooking 58. ___ Brockovich 59. American dogwood 62. Not in port 63. Performed 64. Coffee shop order 65. Hammer-wielding god 66. Kid 67. Apprehension Down 1. Fork over 2. Back

Crossword by Myles Mellor

3. FDA part 4. Salami server 5. Cry out 6. Consider again 7. Some psychedelic designs 8. A woven fabric 9. Reserved 10. Nighttime refresher 11. Curry extra 12. Vegetable also called lady’s-finger 13. Cysts 21. One causing a buzz 22. Comeback 25. Part of a chamber orchestra 26. Love affair 27. Mammoth 28. First Super Bowl that was actually called a Super Bowl 29. Army outfit 30. Gift for an island visitor

31. Puppeteer Lewis 32. They can be taken en passant 33. Overflowing with water 35. Engine speed, for short 38. Most informative, in a way 39. A Bobbsey twin 40. Asphalt 46. Shrink in fear 47. Biker’s cycle 48. Closet material 49. Lose one’s nerve 50. Legal land outline 51. Mess 52. Creme cookie 53. Inside shot? 54. Maintain 55. Alexander, for one 56. Internet visit locale 60. When a plane is due in: Abbr. 61. Kind of carpet

SCRAMBLERS

Unscramble the letters within each rectangle to form four ordinary words. Then rearrange the boxed letters to form the mystery word, which will complete the gag!

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 19

Amish Furniture... Have you seen it lately?

Come Explore Our Store!

NEW WALL BED S!

Steiner’s Amish Furniture 10722 W. Grand Ave. • Sun City 623-974-1745 • www.safaz.net Arizona’s Leading, Largest Amish Furniture Store for Over 14 years.

Playing to Win After a Heart Attack “My wife and I love to have fun. Unfortunately, I had a heart attack while recovering from knee surgery at a local nursing home. I chose HealthSouth Valley of the Sun for my acute rehabilitation. Thanks to HealthSouth I am active, independent and back to having fun.” Nathan and his wife Micky, Peoria, AZ

Why Nathan’s Rehabilitation Was a Success At HealthSouth Valley of the Sun, our joint replacement and cardiac rehabilitation programs help patients adjust to the physical and mental changes following surgery or illness. With the goal of returning patients to independent living, our therapy teams work to help patients gain strength and endurance for performing daily tasks at home and in the community.

The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in Cardiac Rehabilitation

Nathan’s rehabilitation program included:

the christmas dinner of your wishes without the dirty dishes. ’Tis the season to enjoy a holiday meal like no other at Wandering Horse Buffet inside Talking Stick Resort or The Eagles Buffet at Casino Arizona.

• Cardiac education • Nutritional guidance • Daily cardiac exercise group • Physical therapy • Energy conservation • Rehabilitation nursing • Mobility, ADL training, safety, assistive For a no-cost in-home evaluation, call 623 334-5361.

For a no-cost in-home evaluation, call 623 334-5361.

A Higher Level of Care®

Christmas Day with champagne toast 9am–8pm, $54.95/Adults & $18.95/Children

Open Christmas Day 10am – 9pm $28.95/Adults & $12.95/Children

CALL 480.850.7777 tALkingstiCkresort.Com · CAsinoArizonA.Com

Locally owned and caringly operated by the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community.

page 20CAAZ_ChristmasDualBuffet.indd : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014 9632-2 1

11/12/14 12:53 PM

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Our Haven

LLC

Independent & Assisted Living Facility Small, Intimate Setting with Three Bedrooms 24 Hour Care Available Certified Caregivers Services May Include: • Meal Preparation • Medication Management & Administration • Dressing & Grooming Assistance • Housekeeping • Appointment Setting & Transportation • Grocery Shopping & Errands Activities May Include: • Resident Board Game Nights • Book Club • Off-Site Outings (Cinema, Museums, etc.) • Many Others! Near Fashion Square Mall and several world class health care facilities, such as Scottsdale Healthcare, Shea Medical Center, Thompson Peak Hospital, Mayo Clinic and Mayo Hospital.

Please call 850.512.8828 or e-mail DrEveMayerPhD@gmail.com for questions & to arrange an appointment to view this beautiful home.

Grow Your Money! Treasury Market Account Special

1.00% DR. JOHN STATHAKIS, D.O. Board Certiﬁed Dermatologist

APY*

40 Month Advantage CD Special

1.15%

SPECIALIZING IN ADULT & GERIATRIC DERMATOLOGY Complete Skin Exams • Growths Moles • Rashes • Skin Ulcers Pre Cancer/Skin Cancer

Scottsdale Office 7312 E Deer Valley Road, Ste D-105 Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480.473.9111 phxskin.com

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

APY***

13 Month CD Special

.80%

APY**

Hurry into Western State Bank Today for these Great Specials!

7001 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 1000 • Scottsdale 480-596-0883 • www.westernbanks.com

*Annual Percentage Yield. Rate effective as of 10/15/14 & guaranteed for six months from date of account opening. Minimum $25,000 deposit required, maximum of $250,000 deposit. Deposits $250,000 - $1 million will earn standard board rate. Limit one per household. New funds only. Personal and business accounts, no municipalities or institutions. Fees may affect earnings. Qualifying bank relationship required for special rate to apply. Offer subject to change at banks discretion. Other conditions may apply. **Annual Percentage Yield. Rate effective 10/15/14. Personal accounts only. Minimum $1,000 deposit required. Early withdrawal penalty may apply. No specials or bonuses apply. Other conditions may apply. ***Option to increase rate one time during CD term. See bank for details. Member FDIC.

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 21

page 22 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Entertainment Fun & Games Around the Valley ... from page 17

COST: $7 to $8 INFO: (480) 570-4142 or www.dancemm.com Karaoke Night Tickets for the event, hosted by Sunland resident Pat Hurley, are available at the door and include a voucher for soda or popcorn. WHEN: Sat., Dec. 20, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: $2 donation INFO: (480) 832-9003 New Year’s Eve Party with the Brookharts Jim and Becky perform classic country, new country and classic rock ‘n’ roll—music from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, doo-wop and Motown. WHEN: Wed., Dec. 31, at 8 p.m. WHERE: Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa COST: $15 INFO: (480) 832-3844 or gvactivites@gmail.com New Year’s Eve Dinner Dance Tickets include a catered prime rib dinner buffet and dancing to music by the 11th Hour Dance Band. WHEN: Wed., Dec. 31, from 6 p.m. to 12 a.m. WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: $40 INFO: (480) 832-9003

Got an Event?

Include it in this list by sending your information to info@lovinlifeafter50.com www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Bingo Happenings-December 2014 Fort McDowell Casino The bingo experience is intense at Fort McDowell Casino’s state-of-the-art and award-winning 1,700-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times WHERE: Fort McDowell Casino, 10424 N. Fort McDowell Rd., Fort McDowell COST: Charge for cards INFO: (800) THE-FORT, ext. 4380, or www.fortmcdowellcasino.com

Memorial Day. There is a money ball; 17 games include three that are percentage payout. WHEN: Monday evenings, hall opens 4:30 p.m., sale starts 5:15 p.m. and bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: Brentwood Southern, 8103 E. Southern Ave., Mesa COST: Varies according to games and numbers purchased INFO: (480) 306-4569

Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino Gamers who stop by Bingo Park enjoy picturesque National Park views in the state-of-the-art, 550-seat bingo hall. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times WHERE: Vee Quiva Hotel and Casino, 15091 S. Komatke Ln., Laveen COST: $2 to $32 INFO: (800) 946-4452, ext. 1942, or www.wingilariver.com

Earl E. Mitchell Post No. 29 Guaranteed coverall jackpot; no regular games under $100. Play all the games for $21 or the Moneyball for $1. WHEN: Mondays and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m., and Wednesdays at 11:30 a.m. WHERE: Earl E. Mitchell Post No. 29, 6821 N. 58th Ave., Glendale COST: Various costs, call for pricing INFO: (623) 930-9313 or www.azlegionpost29.org

Lone Butte Casino The bingo hall features 850 seats and has morning, matinee and evening sessions. The morning sessions include five regular games and two specials, with three for $10 and $1 specials. WHEN: Seven days a week, various times WHERE: Lone Butte Casino, 1077 S. Kyrene Rd., Chander COST: $2 to $32 INFO: (800) 946-4452, ext. 8928, or www.wingilariver.com

Red Mountain Active Adult Center Bingo seating begins at 12:50 p.m. WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1:15 p.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: Red Mountain Active Adult Center, 7550 E. Adobe Rd., Mesa COST: Tuesdays there are various prices; Thursdays the cards are 25 cents INFO: (480) 218-2221 or http://rm.evadultresources.org

Sunland Village East Prize money will vary during the year based on attendance. WHEN: Sundays at 6 p.m. WHERE: Sunland Village East Auditorium, 8026 E. Lakeview Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies to number purchase INFO: (480) 986-9822 or (480) 313-7033

Peoria Community Center Prize money will vary based on attendance. WHEN: Tuesdays and Fridays at 12:30 p.m. WHERE: Peoria Community Center, 8335 W. Jefferson, Peoria COST: 25 cents per card; 50 cents for overall INFO: (623) 979-3570

Mesa Adult Center Twenty-one games, win up to $500 in Losers Bingo, Social Bingo and Big Game Bingo. WHEN: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, at 1 p.m. WHERE: Mesa Adult Center, 247 N. Macdonald St., Mesa COST: Various costs, call for pricing INFO: (480) 962-5612 or http://mesa.evadultresources.org

Greenfield Village RV Resort Doors open at 6:30 p.m., games begin at 7 p.m. WHEN: Tuesdays Dec. 2, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16, at 7 p.m. WHERE: Greenfield Village RV Resort, 111 S. Greenfield Rd., Mesa COST: Depends on number of cards purchased, $1 and up INFO: (480) 832-3844

Social Bingo Join others during Social Bingo. WHEN: Mondays at 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. WHERE: Apache Junction Active Adult Center, 1035 N. Idaho Rd., Apache Junction COST: 25 cents per card INFO: (480) 474-5262 or http://aj.evadultresources.org

Sunland Village Auditorium doors open at 4:30 p.m., cards are sold at 6 p.m. and play begins at 7 p.m. There’s a $900 progressive pot. WHEN: Thursdays at 7 p.m., except Dec. 25 WHERE: Sunland Village Auditorium, 4601 E. Dolphin Ave., Mesa COST: Charge for cards varies according to number purchased INFO: (480) 832-9003

Brentwood Southern Only dates without bingo are Dec. 22 and Dec. 29 until

Come to Royal Oaks where our smiling residents are eager to welcome you! If you need independent living, assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing, you will find it all on the beautiful Royal Oaks Sun City campus. If you deserve all the amenities of a vacation resort, we invite you to take a tour. Independent Living homes and apartments are available under a Lifecare agreement. Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing are available to Lifecare residents for no increase in the monthly service fee and are also available on a monthly fee basis to non-Lifecare residents. Visit www.RoyalOaks.com to learn more or call

623-815-4132.

10015 W. Royal Oak Road Sun City, AZ 85351 South of Thunderbird and 99th Ave.

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 23

ention the words estate development and consulting “manufactured home” firm and every multifamily to most Arizonans, and you’ll project the company develops is get a multitude of reactions— custom, prefab housing, including from contrived ambivalence to “EPIC on French,” a complex in disapproval and sarcasm with Breckenridge, Colorado, where quips about “trailer parks” units are expected to sell in the $1.2 million to $1.4 million and “doublewides.” range. No, this isn’t your Manufactured homes, father’s prefab housing. factory-built structures Of course, you’re not that are transported going to see a grandiose to a leased or buyerdevelopment like EPIC owned lot, have a stigma in Arizona any time attached, warranted or soon. While there is not, and most people a small niche aimed will cede to resignation at the luxury market, that this fad has come and gone. Garratt Hasenstab, the majority of the industry is still targeting Well, not so fast... director of the middle class and manufactured homes development for retirees. (or prefabricated homes) Verdigris Group. Research statistics show the might be on the verge of resurgence, manufactured housing industry if you ask one industry expert. “Not only is prefab a viable is still relatively healthy, states housing option, prefab is the Hasenstab. Demand for prefab future of housing,” states Garratt housing is forecast to expand 15 Hasenstab, director of development percent annually through 2017 to for Chicago-based Verdigris Group. 135,000 units. Annual ...continues on page 26 The Verdigris Group is a real

Is a Manufactured Home Still a Viable Option in Arizona? CAVCO INC.

By Curt Blakeney

FANTASTIC V IEWS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

AMENITIES INCLUDE :

• Planned Activities • Restricted Access • Exercise Facility • Minimum Age 62 • Service Coordinator • Cable Ready ••Laundry Facility • Relax Foot Care Pedicure Services Laundry Facility •Beauty & Barber Services • Covered Parking • Outdoor Sitting Area • Complimentary Bike Racks Available • Computer Room with Internet Access • Community Room with Library, • Fireplace & Big Screen TV• Transportation

Call today for a tour of

FREE Utilit ies

FELLOWSHIP T OWERS 602-266-9438 222 E. Indianola SECTION 8 HOUSING AVAILABLE

Phoenix, AZ 85012 Studios & 1 Bedrooms

Office Hours: M-F 8:30am-12:00pm • 1:00pm-4:30pm

page 24 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

• Beautiful Environment... Cool pines, a beautiful nature path, picnic areas, and trickling water ponds grace the grounds of Las Fuentes Resort Village. • Comforts... Library, beauty and barber shop, exercise room, social areas, and underground parking. • Private Residence... Patio, individually temperature controlled environment and fully equipped kitchen. • Professional Services... Housekeeping and maintenance, full service dining room, shopping, activities, scheduled transportation and more. • Personal Security... 24-hour emergency assistance. • Assisted Living Apartments... RN supervised. • Voted Best of the Best Assisted Living and Independent Living facility in the Prescott area by Market Surveys of America 11 years running. • Small Pets Welcome.

Enjoy what retirement is meant to be!

Come for a tour and lunch to experience it for yourself!

(888) 744-9300

1035 Scott Drive • Prescott, AZ www.lasfuentesretirement.com www.lovinlifeafter50.com

We build Communities ...and homes! Enjoy two nights at CantaMia for two including accommodations, community tours, activities, mingling with current residents and more with our DISCOVERY DAYS program for just $129! Visit AVHomesInc.com or call 1-877-AVHomes today to make your reservation.

Goodyear, Arizona Among the pristine desert and mountain vistas, just beyond Phoenix, lies a resort-inspired setting offering a distinctive approach to sustainable living with lakeside and mountain views, 500 acres of parks and hiking trails and a 29,000 sq.ft. village and recreation center.

Mesa, Arizona Opening in early 2015, Encore will be the premier addition to the popular master-planned community of Eastmark and will feature a gorgeous, state-of-the-art Village Center featuring a luxurious resort pool, ﬁtness center, class facilities. Sign up for our VIP Interest list online at AVHomesInc.com and be the ﬁrst in the know.

® CERTIFIED DIAMOND

1-877-AVHomes

AVHomesInc.com

Developer may change home design, materials, features, amenities, method of construction, prices and promotions without notice. This is not an offer in states and jurisdictions where prior registration is required and void where prohibited by law. No offer for sale or lease can be made and no offer to purchase can be accepted prior to the issuance of the final Arizona Public Report. A public report is available on the Arizona Department of Real Estate website located at www.azre.gov. ROC #256789. ©Copyright 2014 AV Homes of Arizona, LLC. AV Homes is the exclusive trademark of AV HOMES of Arizona, LLC. Pursuant to the Fair Housing Act, this housing is intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years of age or older per home, although the occupants of a limited number of the homes may be younger, but no one under 18 years of age may be in permanent residence.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 25

Prefab Homes ... from page 24

page 26 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

ARIZONA HOUSING ASSOCIATION

SUN AMERICAN MORTGAGE COMPANY is Arizona’s #1 Reverse Mortgage Banker!

ARIZONA HOUSING ASSOCIATION

Anderson of the Arizona Housing Association. “Because homes are constructed indoors with a steady labor force, cost advantages are passed through to the consumer, offering a much less cost- Many floor plans include per-square-foot price spacious family rooms. says. “Many of the Manufactured Homes in Arizona advantage.” In the past, one of the complaints material suppliers Arizona has always been a desirable manufactured Upgraded cabinets and appliance packages are location for retirees, lured by the of manufactured homes was simply to available from most builders. producers promise of 300-plus days of sunshine that they weren’t built well. Most home and affordable housing. With real estate Americans recall TV news stories of are actually the same suppliers for site- to more stability in neighborhoods. prices on the rise again, the option of prefab homes getting torn to shreds by built homes.” Most of these communities feature Prefab homes are often more energy clubhouses, swimming pools and other home ownership may no longer be storm winds in the Midwest. Today’s prefab homes are following more efficient due to more accurate and amenities for residents, matching financially feasible for some seniors. More and more, retirees are looking stringent construction guidelines and precise construction at the plant. “The traditional residential subdivisions. toward manufactured homes as a building codes, handled by the National finished house has a tighter building practical alternative in Arizona— Manufactured Home Construction & envelope, more effective insulation, So Where Do You Start? whether renting or purchasing. It takes Safety Standard, including inspections more effective heat and ducting, If you decide that purchasing a time to overcome past perceptions and from the U.S. Department of Housing resulting in a higher performance manufactured home is for you, a good build momentum, but there are solid and Urban Development (HUD), home,” Hasenstab says. starting point might be the Arizona New prefab homes feature more Housing Association’s website, which reasons why more Arizona residents which supersedes all local building contemporary amenities to keep pace lists retail model centers in the Phoenix codes on the home itself. might choose the prefab route. “Now regulated by the federal with modern site-built homes, like metro area: http://azhousing.org/ “Manufactured homes are built in timely in-plant granite counters, hardwood floors and model-centers-phoenix-metro-area a factory environment, not subject to government, inspections are made at various upgraded cabinets, appliances and and Tucson area: http://azhousing. weather conditions, so higher quality can be easily achieved,” says Ken stages of construction,” Anderson faucets. org/model-centers-tucson-area. Another advantage of prefabs for By visiting these retail centers, retirees is the prospective buyers ADVERTORIAL time savings. can choose a style Anyone who and size that fit has purchased their needs. Most a new site-built of the models will Qualifying for a Reverse Mortgage is easier than ever! You could home knows be displayed by Save thousands by consulting with a Trusted Local Mortgage Banker! that it takes time companies that back into their pocket.” If without ever having to make The opportunity to get a and patience— have factories another payment and with Reverse Mortgage in Arizona anyone is considering a no out of pocket expenses. has never been better. In reverse mortgage, or would in many cases in Arizona, like Instead of the homeowner fact, the company that wrote just like to speak to a trusted For something different, exterior writing a check to the bank the first Reverse Mortgage as much as six advisor to see if a reverse Cavco, Chariot each month, the bank now in Arizona, Terry Turk, mortgage would be right for designs are also available in log pays the homeowner who can President of Sun American to nine months. Eagle, Champion, them, it is recommended that elect to receive a lump sum, Mortgage Company, is the you consult with a company With a prefab, cabin and adobe territorial styles. a line of credit or monthly #1 Reverse Mortgage banker Clayton Homes, that will is big enough to payments. One of the in Arizona. This is great handle whatever needs you a site can be excavated and the Fleetwood Homes, Laurel Creek biggest criticisms of reverse news for seniors, because may have, but also that you mortgages has been the Sun American Mortgage infrastructure and foundations put Homes, Palm Harbor Homes and find a local business with fees, which before the new Company has helped a great reputation so that changes could have totaled up thousands of seniors gain in place, while the modules are being Redman Homes. you can meet face to face to 5% of a home’s value. But financial freedom through a the new cuts in fees, plus the Reverse mortgage, and they with your banker, and get constructed in a plant. This means Many prefab builders have plants discounts and cutting of their have a track record of satisfied the answers you need, from own fees at Sun American customers. Sun American that it takes less than half the time to outside the state, but will deliver homes a company you can trust. Mortgage Company mean Mortgage Company is a Sun American Mortgage go from concept to completion when to Arizona (you’ve probably seen them that some homeowners can locally based and locally Company is Arizona’s save $15,000 or more on the owned mortgage banker. In Largest Reverse Mortgage going the prefab route. Other options being transported on massive rigs on closing costs. Parker Turk, fact Sun American Mortgage Banker and the wrote the first from Sun American Mortgage Company is owned by the reverse mortgage in the state to speed up the process include renting Interstate 10). Be warned: It isn’t cheap Company also explained Farnsworth family, who of Arizona over 20 years ago. more about these savings. have been helping seniors in the lot and purchasing a prefab that’s to transport a house. Transportation “The new calculations allow Arizona for over 50 years It’s For more information, just more seniors to qualify for never been easier to qualify already in stock. costs ratchet up the final cost on a call Parker Turk or Rex a Reverse Mortgage. Over for a reverse mortgage and the past 12 months, many for seniors to get more Communities in Phoenix metro and manufactured home, so it’s probably Duffin at Sun American people that have called money in their pocket. In Mortgage Company Tucson are catering to seniors who wise to stick to a local company. seeking financial relief just fact, some mortgage bankers (480) 832-4343 didn’t have enough equity in like Sun American Mortgage have retirement savings. In “affordable For anyone considering prefab, it is or toll-free at 1(800) 469-7383. their home, but with the new Company, have even sliced government changes people their own closing costs and 4140 E. Baseline Rd., Ste. 206, lifestyle” communities, residents imperative to find a general contractor are revisiting a Reverse eliminated their origination Mesa, Arizona 85206 Mortgage as an option and are and servicing fees to put even An equal housing opportunity company, purchase the prefab home, but pay rent familiar with the concept. finding out they now qualify. more money back into the member of the Better Business Bureau and the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders In addition, at Sun American hands of seniors who qualify for the lots, which runs roughly $400 “Ensuring that all modules are set Association. Mortgage Banker License Mortgage Company we for a reverse mortgage. A #BK7548 • NMLS #160265 cut our origination fees, reverse mortgage allows to $550 a month, depending on the on the foundation correctly, connected Para Turk: servicing fees, and are now people who are 62 years LO-0912436 • NMLS#267132 community. Unlike apartment dwellers, to each other properly, and that all able to cut their closing costs old and older to convert Rex Duffin: putting that money directly their home equity into cash LO-0911707 • NMLS # 169138 retirees tend to stay put, which lends mechanicals are connected properly industry revenue for prefab homes is near $4 billion, with approximately 174 companies in the U.S. industry employing roughly 24,400 people. Annual industry growth from 20092014 was 3.4 percent. As expected, the South will remain the leading U.S. regional market for prefab homes.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Real Estate Outlook 2015

ARIZONA HOUSING ASSOCIATION

We asked several experts where the residential real estate market is headed:

Many prefabs offer garages and front porch models. Upgrades may include stucco exterior and Spanish tile roofs.

Brian Giersz of Academy Mortgage Chandler. “It typically requires the borrower to source their own down and all interior finishes leave no trace payment and they should have a credit of modular construction can be tricky, score of 640 plus.” but is simply part of the process,” Kester adds: “Not only does the Hasenstab says. buyer/owner have to qualify for a new Of course, financing for a loan, but the property must qualify as manufactured home can always be a well.” challenge. Unlike conforming loans, Loans are concentrated among which fit in nicely with a bank’s a handful of lenders, the largest of portfolio, a loan on a manufactured which are 21st Mortgage Corporation home is less desirable for banks and and Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, mortgage companies. coincidentally subsidiaries of Clayton “Since the mortgage meltdown Homes. It’s fairly common in the in the late 2000s, many mortgage industry: Cavco owns CountryPlace companies stopped Mortgage. lending on manufactured As expected, loans on homes altogether,” says manufactured homes David Kester of Academy typically carry higher Mortgage, which has interest rates and closing offices in Phoenix metro costs than traditional and Tucson. “In the past mortgages, according few years, lending has been to the U.S. Consumer a little more flexible, but Financial Protection like with condos, there are Bureau. many more requirements “I have closed more David Kester of lenders must follow.” manufactured housing Academy Mortgage. There are in essence two loans in the last two years types of loans: For prefab than the previous four years before that, home buyers who are leasing lots, they so we are starting to see things open up can obtain a “chattel” loan, which has a a bit,” says Andy Braun of Academy higher interest rate and a shorter term, Mortgage Tucson. “But for the most typically 15 to 20 years. If they own part, there still isn’t much of a hunger the lot that they’re affixing the prefab for lenders to add manufactured home house to, it may then be considered loans to their portfolio.” “real property,” making it eligible for a The limited loan pools haven’t mortgage. necessarily dampened sales of prefab Financing a prefab home is more homes, but ultimately, cash is king for likely to occur when it is permanently buying decisions. affixed to the ground with a stem wall. With more lending reform on prefab “You will have to be prepared to pay homes, perhaps Hasenstab’s rosy for an engineer’s certification, verifying industry outlook may indeed come the property is secured to a permanent true. After all, manufactured housing is foundation properly, an appraisal, and perhaps the last bastion of affordable home inspection before closing,” says housing left for Americans.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Will 2015 be a buyer’s market? I predict 2015 to be a buyer’s market, but not the type of buyer’s market we have seen in recent years. Inventory will be stable, but there will be a low volume of homes sold, Kevin Ortner creating stagnant prices. If a seller really needs to sell, they will most likely accept a number less than their list price. Arizona’s economy, while recovering, is not keeping pace with the national average of job creation, meaning, with fewer new jobs there are fewer buyers in the market. Additionally, we are still riding out the wave of former property owners who have been through foreclosure who cannot yet qualify for a new mortgage. On the opposite end, mortgage rates remain low, and there are great deals to be found, so if you are in the market to buy, 2015 will be a great time to do so. — Kevin Ortner, CEO of Renters Warehouse in Phoenix Do you think we’ll ever see another real estate “boom”? I think that it’s safe to say that most Arizonans are acutely aware of what happens after real estate “booms.” Many of us have lived through one or more of them in the last few decades Mark Macias and I’m convinced that no one is hoping for another any time soon. A real “boom” for real estate in Arizona would be increasing investment in our children’s education, aggressively supporting entrepreneurship and innovation within our colleges, universities, and small businesses, and fostering a business-friendly environment, which attracts companies that bring jobs, competitive wages, and the potential for home ownership. That is the

type of “boom” that, I believe, many Arizonans are hoping for. — Mark Macias, Account Executive at NexTitle in Scottsdale What other factors will come into play in 2015 that will affect the residential real estate market? New construction sales will continue to increase. Firsttime home buyers currently hold the lowest percentage of buyers in three decades. My guess is that those in their Trudy Moore 20s and 30s will still not be purchasing for several years. If rental rates continue to increase, it may have a positive impact on home sales in this age group. Many are burdened with large student loans and have little extra money to save for a down payment. — Trudy Moore, Broker at HomeSmart in Phoenix Will new homes become more attainable for Arizona residents? What we are seeing that is exciting is the return of loan products to the market that will help those that do not necessarily “fit the box” under traditional lending guidelines and get into homes once again. No, we are not going Joe Hesch back to the overly aggressive loan products from 2005-06 that required little to no documentation, but we are seeing lending standards loosen just a bit, which should be very encouraging to the real estate market both locally and nationally as well. Bottom line: do not assume that you are not able to qualify for a home. It is very possible that you do now or that you will far sooner than you may be expecting. — Joe Hesch, District Manager/Loan Officer at Academy Mortgage in Chandler

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 27

page 28 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

home

Guava-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Cuban Salsa: : by Jan D’Atri I t was love at first bite—for me and for everyone else at the event catered by Scottsdale Chef Linda Martin. A guava-glazed pork tenderloin with Cuban salsa prepared by Linda was all people could talk about, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on the recipe and serve this ultra-flavorful dish to friends and family. Linda is a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef who is a Valley favorite with more than 14 years of experience. She is a popular chef at Sweet Basil Cooking School and Gourmetware in Scottsdale, the featured chef for

Dacor Luxury Appliances and the owner of her own catering company, Linda’s Dinner Designs. I’ve had many dishes created by her, but the guava-glazed tenderloin has become an all-time favorite. This month, if you’re looking for an exquisite meal for family and guests or just an easy weeknight meal, you can’t go wrong with this pork specialty. Thank you, chef, for sharing it! For more information about Chef Linda Martin or to reach her, visit www.lindasdinnerdesigns.com.

Guava-Glazed Pork Tenderloin with Cuban Salsa

(4 servings) For the Pork: 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon minced onion 1 garlic clove, minced 1 can guava nectar (found in most grocery stores in the juice section) 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon ketchup 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Kosher salt Two (3/4 pound each) pork tenderloins Cilantro sprigs for garnish For the Salsa: 1/3 cup chopped cilantro 1/3 cup vegetable oil 1/4 cup white wine vinegar 1/4 cup chopped onion 2 tablespoons chopped chives 2 jalapenos, minced 1 garlic clove, minced Kosher salt

1. Place a saucepan over medium high heat. Add enough oil to lightly coat the bottom of the pan. When the oil “shimmers” add the onion and cook 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute. Add the guava nectar and bring to boil. Cook over high heat until reduced to 1 cup. Add the soy sauce, ketchup, cayenne pepper and salt. Cook 1 minute. Remove from heat and let cool.

2. Set the pork in a 9 inch-by-13 inch baking dish. Brush all sides of the pork with half of the glaze. 3. Light grill to medium high. Grill the pork, turning and brushing with the remaining glaze until browned on all sides, about 15 minutes, or until cooked through (with an instant-read thermometer 150 degrees). Transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board and let rest 10 minutes. 4. While the pork is resting make the salsa: In a bowl, mix the cilantro, oil, vinegar, onion, chives, jalapenos and garlic. Season with salt. Transfer to a serving bowl. 5. To serve: Slice the pork into quarter- to half-inch slices. Arrange on a serving platter. Pour any accumulated juices over the pork. Garnish cilantro sprigs and serve the salsa on the side.

royal oaks Goes to the Movies to support alzheiMer’s Join us on the Red Carpet by buying an exceptionally creative calendar with Royal Oaks residents as the stars! Life is one big memory. A beloved pet. A first car. Wedding days. The smile of a child now all grown up. Holidays with families. Vacations. More weddings. More births. More joy. And favorite movies that over the years have created laughter, tears, and most of all, memories. Royal Oaks residents are exceedingly giving people. They care about their cherished families. They care about Sun City and friends in this retirement mecca where they live and play. And they especially care about anyone who struggles with memory loss. The Friendship House, the new memory care center that will open in early 2015 on our campus, will be their safety net if ever faced with the loss of memories, and for that, they are eternally grateful. So grateful that they chose to create a calendar to recognize and honor family members and friends who are the supportive forces behind loved ones who struggle with memory loss. Residents were professionally costumed, posed, and photographed to emulate famous movie posters from yesteryear. These 15 shots were produced into a deluxe 15-month calendar to benefit Alzheimer’s. The calendars will make charming holiday gifts for your family and friends. And 100% of the calendar proceeds will go to support Alzheimer’s. For a donation of $12.95 per calendar, we guarantee the photos will provide a smile every time you look at them…and a memory to cherish. Help us support Alzheimer’s! Because life is like a box of chocolates…you just never know what you’re going to get. To learn where you can purchase the calendar (and see a preview!), visit www.RoyalOaks.com.

10015 W. Royal Oak Road • Sun City, AZ 85351

(624) 815-4132

Check out www.jandatri.com for great recipes, stories and cool places we’re visiting! Come back often! www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 29

Home Sweet...Headache? What Happens to Your Home after Death ::by Rachel Zaslow, Esq. Y

our home. Your space. Likely, your biggest and most important asset. You worked hard to purchase your home, but now you should protect it. Once you pass away, what happens to this hard-earned asset? There are five ways a home is typically handled after death: Rights of Survivorship. If you are married, then your home may be titled to you and your spouse, with “rights of survivorship.” This phrase is key. Upon the death of the first of you, it means the survivor will own the home. It is fairly easy for a home to pass between spouses on the death of the first spouse, the surviving spouse will need to update the county by recording a copy of the death certificate. However, if the second spouse does nothing, then on his or her death a court would need to determine the next step. Court involvement is costly and time consuming and can be avoided. Beneficiary Deed. When your home is titled to you, in your name only (or your name and your spouse’s name), you need a plan. Arizona is one of the handful of states that permit “Beneficiary Deeds.” By filing a beneficiary deed, you can name who you want the home to go to upon your demise. You retain all ownership rights because the beneficiary designation does not take effect until your death. You can name as many beneficiaries as you want to inherit the home and you can change these beneficiaries at any time. Only upon your death will your beneficiaries be able to re-title the home into their name(s). However, if more than one beneficiary is inheriting the home, disputes can arise. What happens if one beneficiary wants to sell the home, another wants to live in the home and another wants to use it as a rental property to supplement their income? By naming multiple beneficiaries on a beneficiary deed, you are potentially creating disputes and frustration amongst your beneficiaries. If you plan on leaving your home to multiple beneficiaries, talk to them so they can come to an agreement about what they plan to do with the property. Trust. A common way to protect your home is by creating a trust and titling your home into your trust. You would essentially be signing and recording

a new deed, labeling yourself as the trustee of your trust, thereby making your home a “trust asset.” Within the body of your trust, you will nominate successor trustees to wrap up your estate. You can make provisions within your trust for example: To give the home to a beneficiary or to sell the home and split the proceeds amongst your beneficiaries. If you have more than one beneficiary, a trust is an efficient way of distributing your property. With only a will, you will need to do some additional planning as a will requires court involvement. Small Estate Affidavit. In Arizona, if the value of your home is less than $100,000, then your next of kin may be able to file what is called a “small estate affidavit.” To do so, they must wait six months from the date of death. A small estate affidavit states that the value of the home was less than $100,000 and that the home should be distributed equally between your next of kin. However, the same issues could arise as the beneficiary deed if the beneficiaries cannot agree what to do with the home. Furthermore, Arizona has been known to increase this value. Upon your death, it is possible the value requirement for a small estate affidavit may be more than $100,000. Probate. If the above tactics do not apply, then your home may have to go through the probate court system. Probate can cost thousands of dollars and takes a minimum of four to six months to complete, but is easily avoidable with proper planning. During this process, someone will be appointed by the court to authorize a sale of the home and distribute the proceeds to your heirs and your heirs could be determined by Arizona law. What not to do. Do not place children or loved ones (other than your spouse) on a deed. In the event that they are sued, your home can be used to satisfy their creditors. There may also be adverse tax consequences. Do not put your home in your name alone without an after-death plan. Rachel Zaslow, Esq., is an estate planning and probate attorney with the Mahoney Law Office PLLC in Scottsdale, Arrowhead (Glendale) and Goodyear. She can be reached at (623) 518-3513. This article is for informational purposes only; no part of this article is intended as legal advice.

page 30 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

rivia Contest To enter simply:

ait, what was that? We felt a sudden influx of readers. Snowbirds, we know we’re here. How are you liking the weather so far? We have to admit, it’s much better than the 20-degree-and-lower temps you left behind, but that won’t stop us from bundling up and enjoying a hot chocolate or 30. Because we don’t experience temperatures on the other side of extreme, sometimes we like to at least think about what it’s like to be really cold. (Come on, give us a break. We braved 117 degrees this summer! It would be a welcome change.) And there have been some seriously cold recorded temps, with repercussions around the globe. So cozy around the fireplace and make that eggnog with extra nog, because we have some cold weather trivia that will be sure to break you free of brain freeze.

Cold Weather Trivia

The lowest recorded temperature was -128.6 degrees Fahrenheit in 1983. Where was it recorded?

What wintery candy is said to go through a “snap test” before it leaves the factory to ensure it breaks clean in the middle?

3 4 5

Which Arizona city gets the most annual snowfall? What snowy cat is native to the mountain ranges of South and Central Asia? What state is the second-coldest in the country, according to weather.com, falling just behind Alaska?

On a sheet of paper list the correct answers in order 1 through 5. Include your full name, mailing address, phone number and an email address (if you have one). Mail your trivia contest entry to: Lovin’ Life After 50 Attn: Trivia Contest 3200 N. Hayden, Suite 210 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 Or email your entry to: trivia@lovinlife.com The deadline for entry is the 15th of each month. Please be sure to have your entry postmarked by that date. If you’re a winner in our drawing, we’ll contact you via telephone. Good luck!

Contest Prizes A certificate for a one-night stay at InnSuites, awarded to two winners

November 2014 Winners InnSuites certificate Maribeth Chappell InnSuites certificate Lynn Leinwohl

Last Month’s Answers

1 2 3

Blueberries are the berry that cranberries are most closely related to.

4 5

Tryptophan is the chemical component of turkey attributed to sleepiness.

Humans are 75 percent genetically similar to pumpkins. Black Pete is a traditional Dutch Christmas figure that has been a subject of debate over the last few years.

Dunder and Blixem were the original names of Santa’s reindeer, Donner and Blitzen, in the poem “A Visit from St. Nicholas.”

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

BETTER DECISIONS. BETTER MEDICARE BENEFITS.

BETTER CALL CIGNA TODAY. $0 Plan Premium** $0 Deductible $0 Primary Care Visits $0 Tier 1 Prescription Drugs Affordable Urgent Care co-pays Lowered hospital stay co-pays

More than 550 in-network Primary Care Doctors Over 5,000 in-network Specialists 100 in-network Pharmacies Over 200 in-network Dental offices*** 48 in-network Hospitals

Don’t wait. Call 1-855-698-9674 (TTY 711) 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm

* Most recent 2014 rating from www.Medicare.gov. Medicare evaluates plans based on a 5-star rating system. Star Ratings are calculated each year and may change from one year to the next. ** You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. ***With purchase of optional Cigna Dental Supplement The benefit information provided is a brief summary, not a complete description of benefits. For more information, contact the plan. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and copayments may change on January 1 of each year. All Cigna products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna HealthCare of Arizona, Inc. The Cigna name, logos, and other Cigna marks are owned by Cigna Intellectual Property, Inc. Cigna-HealthSpring is contracted with Medicare for PDP plans, HMO and PPO plans in select states, and with select State Medicaid programs. Enrollment in Cigna-HealthSpring depends on contract renewal. This information is available for free in other languages. Please call our customer service number at 1-800-627-7534 (TTY 711), 7 days a week, 8am to 8pm. Esta información está disponible de forma gratuita en otros idiomas. Favor de contactar a nuestro departamento de servicio al cliente al 1-800-627-7534 (TTY 711), 8am a 8pm, siete días a la semana.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Rated 4.5 stars by Medicare.gov*

H0354_15_22972 Accepted

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 31

NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION

travel

Fireworks mark the coming of the New Year during Niagara’s New Year’s Eve bash.

Niagara Falls Bash C A N A D A’ S G R A N D Y E A R ’ S E V E PA R T Y

:: by Andrea Gross | photos by Irv Green

GIFT CARD

IRV GREEN

GIFT CARD

’m half-submerged in a luxurious from the hotel, and as we walk along whirlpool tub, sipping from a glass the path bordering the falls, we’re of sweet ice wine and looking out surrounded by trees sparkling with the window at the cascading waters more than a million lights and over of Horseshoe Falls, the largest of the 100 illuminated displays representing three falls that make up Niagara Falls. everything from Noah’s ark and an Over there, in the distance, is the Inuit kayak to humungous Canadian United States. Here, at the Radisson and United States flags. By the time we arrive at the park, Hotel, is Canada. Divided in part by the Niagara River, the two countries music is blaring from the stage and the share the falls, with Horseshoe on the place is packed with revelers. Off to the Canadian side, American and Bridal side, the Skylon Tower rises 775 feet Veil Falls technically in the United above the falls. The circular top, which States, although better viewed from resembles a space station, is aglow with lights, and the exterior glass-enclosed Canada. They’re not the tallest falls in the elevator, called the “Yellow Bug,” world, but they’re among the most streaks up and down, ferrying visitors powerful, and tonight, illuminated in to and from the revolving dining room festive colors, they’re surely the most and observation deck at the top. The countdown begins shortly before beautiful. Waterfalls, wine and a whirlpool midnight. Eight, seven, six...one! The tub—could there be a more glorious Yellow Bug zooms to the top, fireworks way to spend New Year’s Eve? I think explode from the tower and the crowd not, but a party is waiting outside. Not roars. Then, led by the performers on just any party, but one of the grandest in Canada and the only one that’s televised from coast-to-coast. In short, “It’s Canada’s answer to Times Square,” says Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati. My husband and I don our parkas—December weather in Niagara typically ranges from the low 20s to the mid30s—and set out for Queen A helicopter ride will help visitors understand the geography Victoria Park. It’s not far of the region in ways walking cannot.

page 32 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

IRV GREEN WINTER FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Niagara Falls actually consists of three separate waterfalls. A panoramic view of Niagara Falls from the Canadian side reveals American Falls on the left and Horseshoe Falls on the right. stage, everyone begins singing “Auld we take a helicopter ride to better understand the area’s geography. From Lang Syne.” It’s almost 1 a.m. when we head back up high, we can see how the Niagara to the Radisson, and we have to run to River, which begins in Lake Erie and catch the falls’ Incline Railway before it flows north into Lake Ontario, divides closes. This saves us the uphill hike from as it circles around Goat Island. The the street level park to the Fallsview southern side plummets over a cliff Tourist Area, where the hotels, casino, to form Horseshoe Falls, while the northern side leads to American and eateries and shops are located. We arrive in our room chilled but Bridal Veil Falls. These two smaller falls are, in turn, separated from each thrilled, ready to start the new year. The next day we explore more other by the much smaller landmass of of Niagara’s winter offerings. After Luna Island. Finally, because the Niagara walking farther along the 3-mile illumination route, we warm up Peninsula is one of the top ice wineamongst the poinsettias and Christmas producing regions in the world, we visit cactus at the Floral Showhouse and Inniskillin Estate Winery, an awardwinning producer of then make our way to the luxury wine. We Journey Behind the see the vineyards, Falls, an attraction where harvesting that helps us truly of the frozen grapes appreciate the size has just begun; and splendor of watch a video of the Niagara. production process; Dressed in and sample three waterproof ponchos different types of (distributed free at ice wine: Riesling, the entrance), we Cabernet Franc and slosh through tunnels Sparkling. to emerge 13 stories We can’t agree on below ground level which one we like at the point where best, so we splurge Horseshoe Falls crashes into the A three-story-tall illuminated flag of on mini-bottles of Lower Niagara River. Canada welcomes folks from the United each. If we can’t We’re showered with States, who make up half of the 11 make it back to mist as the equivalent million travelers who visit Niagara each Niagara next year, at least we’ll be able of more than 1 year. million bathtubs full of water rush over to celebrate at home—but it won’t be the falls every hour, traveling at a speed the same without the whirlpool tub and of 25 mph. (During the winter, the the magnificent view of the falls. lower observation deck is closed, but there’s drama and moisture aplenty on If you go: the upper deck.) Niagara’s Winter Festival of Lights Although it’s possible to see all three runs through Jan. 12. falls from the ground-level walkway, www.niagaraparks.com

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 33

DEB ROSKAMP

Aria Resort and Casino offers sweeping views of the Vegas skyline.

The new Mob Museum is housed in the former federal courthouse and U.S. Post Office in the Art District.

What’s New and Old in Las Vegas :: by Ed Boitano

y last trip to Las Vegas was nearly 16 years ago, and as you can imagine, so much has changed since that visit. Vegas is always morphing and redefining itself: from a dusty Nevada desert town built by the Mormons to a world-famous gambling and entertainment mecca jump-started by the mob. Whenever I travel, I find it insightful to chat with cab drivers, who generally have a keen take on their city. The consensus among Vegas cabbies is that Vegas today is as much about shopping, dining and shows as it is about gambling. This transition was pushed along by Las Vegas entrepreneur Steve Wynn, who’s been known to give taxi drivers comps to shows and attractions to steer folks in the right direction, thus making cab drivers his personal ambassador to the city. Selected Attractions Mob Museum: “Don’t worry, we only kill each other,” infamous mobster Bugsy Siegel reportedly told a nervous foreman during the construction of the original Flamingo Hotel in Las Vegas. Bugsy’s words were self-fulfilling, as he later was gunned down by his own gang after his dream project went hopelessly over budget. This scene and more is on display at the new Mob Museum, housed in the former federal courthouse and U.S. Post Office in the new Art District. Built in 1933, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mob was also responsible for bringing in famous entertainers like Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack, but kept their underworld presence low-key to fly under the watchful radar of Feds. Of course, Vegas has always been a wide-open town. When prohibition ended, many citizens expressed surprise that there ever had been a prohibition. One of the museum’s

page 34 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

iconic artifacts is the brick wall where members of the Bugs Moran gang were lined up and gunned down by Al Capone’s henchmen. Cirque du Soleil’s “Love:” My life changed when I saw The Beatles on “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Many friends were surprised that I hadn’t seen Cirque du Soleil’s “Love.” Okay, I bought the CD by Sir George Martin, The Beatles’ longtime producer, but hadn’t actually seen the show. It’s a psychedelic journey through the 1960s, told through 30 of The Beatles’ original songs that were re-mixed by Martin and his son. The show is a seamless blend of Beatles songs and Cirque du Soleil’s acrobatics, dancing and visual effects. Performers are dressed as The Beatles and characters from their songs. It’s the closest thing to attending a Beatles concert. Foot Rescue at Canyon Ranch: Let’s face it: Much of the Vegas experience is strolling down the strip, basking in the almost Felliniesque excess of architecture and attractions. Your feet definitely get tired. Located at The Venetian, Canyon Ranch Healthy Feet Center is devoted to advanced foot health and comfort. I opted for a foot/gait analysis, which monitors how one moves, assessing the biomechanics of your gait. This was followed by my first foot massage, then a health food lunch at the Canyon Ranch Spa Club where I ordered “The Healthy Elvis”—a banana and peanut butter on whole wheat grain bread, sans the deep frying. Where to Eat Piero’s: Located across the street from the Vegas Convention Center, this 30-year-old iconic ItalianAmerican restaurant has been the destination of choice from the early days of the Rat Pack to contemporaries

like Mick Jagger and Justin Timberlake. Deeply rooted in Vegas culture and history, one doesn’t have to look too closely to see multiple areas in the restaurant used in the Martin Scorsese film, “Casino.” Several cab drivers suggested the stone crab appetizer and the restaurant’s signature osso buco. I wasn’t disappointed. Jean-Georges Steakhouse: Was that The Clash playing on the sound system? Indeed it was. Awardwinning chef and owner, Jean-Georges Vongerichten, hand-picks his favorite tunes for his popular restaurant, located in the Aria Resort & Casino’s food court. This is indicative of his approach, putting his personal spin on the traditional American steakhouse by adding a strong dose of flair and creativity to his innovative gastronomic creations. Where to Stay Aria Resort & Casino is my top pick for accommodations on the strip. I was fortunate to score a top floor corner room with sweeping views of the Vegas skyline. Later, I was informed that all the rooms at Aria have been designed so that everyone feels as if they have a corner room. Unlike the carnival-like ambience of some properties, Aria features elegant architecture, soft colors and natural light. It seemingly stands alone as a relaxing haven, yet still with the attractions you’d expect in Vegas like designer shops, shows, vibrant restaurants, a spa and pool. If it weren’t for the fact that I wanted to see more of Vegas, I could have spent my entire time at the Aria. But I will return, and see once again the changes Las Vegas has coming. For more information on Las Vegas, visit www. lvcva.com.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

THE BEST OF 2015 TRAVEL

to advertise in this section, contact ed Boitano at 818.985.8132 or ed@travelingBoy.com

Our Guide tO Year’s Best tOurs, treks & destinatiOns. v Compiled by Ed Boitano

ALASKA CRUISES AND VACATIONS BY TYEE TRAVEL - What kind of cruise is right for you? From casual small-ship cruises to elegant luxury ships, Alaskans at Alaska Cruises & Vacations have experience and first-hand knowledge to plan your perfect cruise. Customize a land tour to make your journey complete. For advice from Alaskans who cruise themselves, go online at www.akcruises.com or call (800) 977-9705 ASPEN SQUARE, Aspen’s downtown condominium hotel is located in the heart of this renowned mountain resort, only a few steps from outstanding Colorado restaurants, unique shops and art galleries. Even the Silver Queen Gondola is right across the street at the base of Aspen Mountain! Featuring fireplace studio suites and condominiums, Aspen Square is a full-service hotel with outdoor heated pool, hot tub, fitness center and lobby concierge. (800) 862-7736 or www.AspenSquareHotel.com BIG SUR LODGE is located in ancient groves of redwood and oak trees in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur, California.

Ask About Early Booking Savings!

See the REAL Alaska Up-Close on a Small Ship Cruise or Private Yacht Charter

Guests are invited to step back in time to an earlier, more peaceful era. Our 61 cottage-style guest rooms, each with its own deck or porch, are located on a hillside, within walking distance of our restaurant, gift shop, and grocery store. Your stay at the Big Sur Lodge includes free access to Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Ask about our Lovin’ Life discount. (800) 424-4787 or www.BigSurLodge.com CLIPPERSHIP MOTORHOMES, INC. was founded in 1982 and has remained a family owned and operated business ever since. Our goal is to provide affordable and flexible Alaskan RV vacations and to help our clients create their own dream vacation. Whether your Alaskan vacation involves independent activities such as wildlife tours, glacier tours, fishing trips, or organized tours; Clippership Motorhomes can help make your Alaskan vacation dreams come true. (800) 421-3456 or www.ClipperShipRV.com COLORADO TRAILS RANCH - What you need is a week unwinding and exploring the wonders of our first class guest ranch. Colorado Trails Ranch is not far from Durango, in lovely Southwest Colorado. Set in the spectacular panoramas of the San Juan Mountains, our dude ranch resort offers lifetime experiences for singles, groups and entire families. There isn’t one difficult activity in our

THE DUDE RANCHERS’ ASSOCIATION - Dude ranches are a popular destination vacation for families, couples, singles and groups. All seem to fit in nicely with the easygoing ranch atmosphere. Since most ranches offer a wide variety of activities such as horseback riding, fishing, river rafting, swimming pools, children’s programs, cattle drives, cookouts,

Learn more at these FREE presentations: Jan. 12 9 am 1 pm 4:30 pm

Spend your summer with us

Cherish the Stay

Condominium Hotel in Downtown Aspen. Fireplace, Studios and Condominiums with full Hotel Sevices. Pool, Hot Tub, Concierge, all in the Heart of Aspen! Call now for rates & information.

1-800-TO ASPEN

(1-800-862-7736)

AspenSquareHotel.com

• Award-winning performing arts • Weeklong university courses • Beautiful mountain valley

Jan. 13 2:30 pm

Jan. 14 9 am 2:30 pm Jan. 15 9 am 1 pm 4:30 pm

INDEPENDENT VACATION SPECIALIST Cruise Lines & Land Packages Contact: Joni Notagiacomo Los Angeles

Big Sur Lodge

“I represent all major cruise lines to the world’s most exotic locations, including Antarctica.”

47225 Highway One, Big Sur, CA 93920 âoâWWW BIGSURLODGE COM

(800)600-4548 www.luv2cruz.com

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

CRUISEONE specializes in cruise and land vacations to the world’s most exotic destinations, including Antarctica, Alaska, Belize, Caribbean, Mediterranean and the Mexican Riviera. Programs range from family reunions at sea and honeymoon cruises to river cruising and land vacations. Each independently owned and operated business combines the latest technology with old-fashioned customer service. Contact Joni Notagiacomo in Los Angeles at (800) 600-4548 or www.luv2cruz.com

Logan, Utah

Enjoy the Drive

The Sur coastline offers Only dramatic a five hourBig drive from the LA area, the dramatic Big Sur coastline offers breathtaking views from California’ s breathtaking views. Enjoy the tranquility, and Pacific Coast Highway. Enjoy the spend the night surrounded by ancient oaks tranquility and cool ocean air, and spend and redwoods at the Big Sur Lodge. the night surrounded by ancient oaks Mention this adatfor and redwoods thea Big Sur Lodge. complimentary breakfast. Ask About our Lovin’ Life After 50 Discount.

perfectly personalized programs. The food is delicious, the comfort is wonderful and you’ll feel like a well cared member of the family. (800) 323-3833 or www.ColoradoTrails.com

Arizona Golf Resort Mesa United Methodist Church Sun Lakes Sun City Grand – Cimarron Center Surprise Pebble Creek – Eagles Nest Clubhouse Goodyear Canoa Hills Rec Center Green Valley Saddlebrooke HOA 1 Tucson American Lutheran Church Sun City Westbrook Village – Vista Rec Center Peoria Desert Palms Presbyterian Church Sun City West

Jan. 16 10:30 am Sun City Festival – Sage Center Buckeye 3 pm Fountain of the Sun – Admin Bldg. Mesa

1-800-882-4433 | summercitizens.usu.edu

CST2006278-40

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 35

line dancing, spas and plain relaxing on the porch swing, everyone is sure to find something that appeals to them. (866) 399-2339 or www.DudeRanch.org EXPLORE LOGAN, UTAH is famous for outdoor adventures, hands-on heritage experiences, and performing and fine arts. The city is home to Utah State University, art galleries, specialty shops, Mormon pioneer architecture, and the 1923 Ellen Eccles Theatre. This beautiful high mountain valley is nice and cool. It’s just 90 minutes north of Salt Lake City and 4 hours from Yellowstone National Park. Take a day trip along Logan Canyon National Scenic Byway through dramatic limestone cliffs and forested canopies to the breathtaking turquoise waters of Bear Lake. (800) 882-4433 or www.summercitizens.usu.edu HAND HELD TRIPS TO THAILAND specializes in unique and personal experiences to Thailand, Bhutan, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, China, Hong Kong and Singapore. With their diverse culture and landscape, these destinations offer the ideal locations for an exotic adventure. Hand Held Trips to Thailand is a veteran-owned small business operated by Lee Porter, a returned Peace Corps volunteer. Lee offers a shared experience that suits each individual in his small group tours. (571) 244-4363 or www.handheldtripstothailand.com

THE LODGE AT LAKE TAHOE - Centrally located in South Lake Tahoe. Our Studio, one, and two-bedroom condominiums provide ample space and the comforts of home to relax after a fun-filled day. Our heated pool is open seasonally with hot tub open year-round. Our on-site resort amenities serve as the premier spot to relax and enjoy South Lake Tahoe. Call today (866) 469-8222 or visit www.8664myvacation.com PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT – Located right on the beach, this beautifully landscaped RV resort features 400 full hookup sites, each with complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV, on 26 grassy, tree-lined acres. Enjoy general Store, children’s arcade, restaurant, laundromat, heated pool, bicycle rentals and miniature golf course. The resort offers the ideal location for wineries, golf or Hearst Castle. Pismo Coast Village RV Resort was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year. (888) RV-BEACH or www.PismoCoastVillage.com RANCHO CAYMUS - Nestled among the wineries of the world-famous Rutherford Bench Wine Region, Rancho Caymus is a quaint, all-suites Napa Valley inn which offers a unique sense of rustic elegance conveniently located in the heart of the Napa Valley. Each of our 26-room suites are distinctively designed to recapture the simpler times of early California. The two story hacienda style inn surrounds an award-winning

CLIPPERSHIP

ur bout o Ask avin’ Life Lo er 50 Aft unt! Disco

HOME RENTA TOR LS O M BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

AWARDED BY THE BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU OF ALASKA

MAKE RESERVATIONS EARLY!

1-800-421-3456

5401 Old Seward Highway, Anchorage, AK 99518

email: info@clippershiprv.com

www.clippershiprv.com

A WESTERN ADVENTURE OF A LIFETIME! A first-class dude ranch in the mountains outside of Durango. Horseback Riding Fly Fishing River Rafting Western Dancing Campfire Cookouts

garden courtyard. Join us in the “Heart of the Napa Valley” for a wine country experience unlike any other. Let Rancho Caymus be your balcony to expand your senses on your next Napa Valley trip. (800) 845-1777 or www.RanchoCaymus.com RUBY’S INN & RV PARK is the closest accommodations to southern Utah’s Bryce Canyon National Park. We offer 368 deluxe guest rooms, restaurants, general store and gallery, conference center, car care, and a RV park and campground. Our guests can enjoy swimming pools and spas, or browse the general store, shops and gallery. We feature year-round activities including cross-country skiing, horseback rides and scenic flights. Ruby’s Inn and Bryce Canyon National Park are open all year. (866) 878-9389 or www.RubysInn.com SUNRIVER ST.GEORGE is southern Utah’s premier master-planned resort-style living community. Built in an unspoiled, rural location, SunRiver St.George provides a quiet, superbly planned community with occupancy limited to at least one resident 55 or better. From the golf course layout and community center design to the floor plans of our sensational SunRiver St. George homes, the resort-style living lifestyle is our central point of focus. SunRiver St.George is “building a lifestyle, not just homes.” (888) 688-6556 or www.SunRiver.com

PISMO COAST VILLAGE

PISMO COAST VILLAGE RV RESORT was awarded the 2007/2008 National RV Park of the Year

Your base for exploring Central California

A recreational resort, nestled right on the beach. 400 fully developed sites with picnic tables, fire rings,Wi-Fi, utilities and satellite TV hookups all included in one price!

RV RESORT

Ask About Our Fall Midweek Discount Reservations: Call 888-RV-BEACH

Ask About Our Discount Weeks!

165 Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, CA 93449

(800) 323-3833 www.ColoradoTrails.com

www.PismoCoastVillage.com

A Romantic Hideaway In the Heart of the Napa Valley

Affordable • Small Group Tours • VIP Accommodations •Great Cuisine

Just Relax & Enjoy (571) 244-4363 • www.handheldtripstothailand.com

The Lodge at Lake Tahoe

• One & Two-Bedroom Condos • Partial/Full Kitchens • Centrally located

page 36 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk, UtAh BrYcE CaNyOn GrAnD HoTeL HiStOrIc RuBy’S InN

Rates from

Call Today!

RuBy’S Rv PaRk & CaMpGrOuNd

LA50

Or Visit Us

ClOsEsT AcCoMmOdAtIoNs To BrYcE CaNyOn NaTiOnAl PaRk 1.866.878.9398 | RuBySiNn.CoM

$89/night!

www.duderanch.org • 1-866-399-2339

(800) 845-1777 • www.RanchoCaymus.com

866.469.8222

www.8664myvacation.com

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

TARA TOURS specializes in tours to Latin America with and Private Journeys. All more excitement and mystery one could experience in a feature the exceptional lifetime of travel. Tara Tours can take you there, with great quality that has made us a service and tour programs, designed with your desires and leader in adventure travel. budget in mind. Experience the majesty of Machu Picchu, (800) 368-2794 or www.WildernessTravel.com Rio de Janeiro’s “Cidade Maravilhosa,” indigenous market of Chichicastenango; Peru’s Amazon Jungle; the incredibility MACHU PICCHU PRIVATE of the Galapagos Islands, Chile and Argentina’s Patagonia,the From US$1,996 pp/dbl ruins of Tikal, Easter Island, Including all private tours, and natural beauty of Costa 6 nights hotel acc., Rica. (800) 327-0080 or local airfare and more! www.TaraTours.com WILDERNESS TRAVEL has been creating dream journeys for over 35 years. With over 200 journeys worldwide, our cultural, wildlife and hiking adventures offer an incredible range of experiences with trips for every interest. From walking trips in Tuscany to thrilling wildlife safaris in Africa and cultural journeys to Machu Picchu, we offer both Small Group Adventures

1-800-327-0080

tara@taratours.com www.taratours.com/peru.htm

Extraordinary Cultural, Wildlife, and Hiking Adventures since 1978. Classic Swiss Alps • Great Alpine Traverse Hike to the Matterhorn • Tour du Mont Blanc Hiking the Haute Route

(800) -368-2794 www.wildernesstravel.com

No Mortgage Payments for Life! *

*FHA-Insured HECM Mortgage. Must be 62 or better to qualify.

(888) 688-6556

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Utah’s only Active-Adult Golf Community w w w. s u n r i v e r. c o m

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 37

Sound Off

... from page 8 Democrats. Can you imagine what girls are doing the civil air patrol, wore would have happened if a Republican a uniform, too. And they remember had made a comment like this? Of how good it was. It’s great training for course the mass media totally ignored discipline lessons for kids today who need to learn that. this very racist remark.

When walking in my community when it is dark, I notice numerous homes with their shades up, front door open and/ or garage door open up to 3 feet. If I ever decide to become a burglar, I’d have to leave thank-you notes for these good folks for making it so easy on me. ISIS thinks air strikes are unfair war. How crazy can they be? Oh that’s right! They also think beheading children is the way to secure their future new governmental control. That’s about as crazy as you can get. Go Air Force, go. I can’t believe the stupid, cruel, thoughtless cowards showed the video of how the 19 firemen died. It was totally unnecessary. You can still read it in the newspaper. You greedy stupid people. Shame on you! Greed, greed, greed. You think the next generation’s going to live to over 50? The Republicans want more war, so they can say it’s all Obama’s fault—not George Bush I, way back in Kuwait. They’re going to let Bush No. 3 take the credit for ending it, with one big bomb. Oh yeah. Same old, same old, in Republican Washington. Sadly, sadly, print it. It’s the truth. Goodbye. The National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., is hosting a “Muslim Prayer Service.” A school district in Maryland has eliminated Christian and Jewish holidays from the school calendar because a group of Muslims was offended. Meanwhile, Christians are being crucified, beheaded and slaughtered if they don’t convert to Islam. America, it’s time to wake up. The goal of Islam is convert or die. Their goal is worldwide domination. It’s Nov. 11, a holiday of memories for grandma, too. All her fellow high school graduates were mostly girls because the boys were in the service. But the

Wasn’t this election about improving life for citizens and not continued personal animosity and career enhancements for congressional politics? So what happened? They can’t even wait until being sworn-in in January, Oh gee, but that would mean more lies about honestly serving the public. Same old, same old for bamboozled voters. You get what you bought. Gee whiz, I can’t get rid of that Carman and Bridget and the credit card problems. Now I get the guy calling to fix the computer that I don’t even have. Isn’t it amazing what these idiots can do with the phone? Stupid people. That’s what’s wrong with this country. It’s being run by stupid, stupid people. The food truck idea is nothing new. It started with Arizona Public Service food truck years—and many years—ago. Remember the ‘60s and ‘70s? Why do we call the Affordable Care Act “Obamacare”? Obamacare was essentially Medicare for all (How do you like your Medicare?). The Affordable Care Act we have was written by Republicans and should be called “Republicare.” Republicans should take credit for it. I would like to encourage everyone to check their driver’s licenses to see when the expiration date is because I have to check licenses at my job and I was shocked at how many people have licenses that are about to expire within a couple of months and they had no clue! It would not be good for you if you were to happen to get pulled over by a police officer with an expired license, so please check it! Don’t forget when you come back from vacation one of the first things you should do is change your voicemail back and take your “Out of Office” email notice off!

page 38 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

It is so unprofessional when I email someone and they have the “Out of Office” message on and they have been back for days. So, all the ISIS leader wants is a fight to show America how well they taught him. Interesting. How much longer do you think it will take for the freedom of the press dummies to learn the tell-all news is equal to aiding the enemy and helping treason? Of course the allies will lose to ISIS—as long as they check their iPhones and their newspapers. Bill Cosby is addressing possible problems of past years by just ignoring the people who have nothing else to do but make themselves TV specimens of the day. If anything did accidentally happen—get over it! It’s called life! Oh Monti’s restaurant did enough damage destroying the Hayden House in historical Tempe that everyone in this state knew and loved. They’re tearing it down and building yet another hotel as you enter Tempe. Whoopee. The dummies in charge at city hall need to be tarred and feathered and run out of town. Obamacare is a joke! I was forced to buy insurance or risk a penalty at tax time. I had to get a second job to be able to afford his “affordable” insurance. I can’t even afford to use this insurance if I get sick with all the deductibles, copays, etc. And none of the insurance, employees, doctors or office staff understand how this all works. For example, I have been putting off having outpatient surgery, but figured I might as well since now I have insurance. I called Meritus to find out how much all my copays would be under my plan so I could budget for it. Well, because they didn’t understand their own plan, they gave me the wrong amounts. And since my wonderful doctor and her staff don’t understand the plan either, instead of sending me to “outside” imaging centers, she sent me to Maricopa Medical Center that charges more money for tests! And all of the doctors are so far behind it has taken me seven months in my process to try and get this surgery done and I

haven’t even been given a surgery date yet! And now we have open enrollment coming up so I will be forced to re-sign, because if I switch insurance, I will have to start all over again! Obamacare can kiss my (butt). OK, you sit-on-your-handsfor-six-years Republicans. Now you have two years to produce those secret miracles before the next election. Got any money you can pull out of the billionaires again? We are new to Scottsdale and love living here. We appreciate how Scottsdale has regulations limiting neon signs and keeping the desert beautiful. So why do those who govern Scottsdale allow all these election signs plastered over every main street and intersection? People here are well educated and aware of who these candidates are. So why denigrate Scottsdale’s beauty with these signs? It was reported that we supply more subsidy to Israel than any other country. This includes warplanes and armaments such as used in the battle with Hamas that killed hundreds of innocent Palestinians. The justification given for this support appears to be the belief that Israel is an important ally. Since Harry Truman conceded to Justice Brandies to recognize Jewish occupation of Palestine territory as a new State of Israel, I have yet to recognize any meaningful Israel contribution to the United States. It was reported that more Jewish holocaust survivors came to the United States than to Palestine. It is not likely that Harry Truman would have approved a new Jewish state carved out of New York. Mr. Kruatheimer wrote an article explaining Israel as our ally in that Israel supports us by demonstrating the effectiveness of the warplanes and arms we supply in their wars with their neighbors. It appears well known that Israel has atomic weapons and superior fire power to any neighbor. Our recent $700 million gift to add to their missile defense further insulates Israel from any neighbor. Since its inception, Israel has followed a policy of evicting Palestinians from their land their homes and their livelihood. It is clear why there is so much animosity to us from Islamic people, however, it certainly does not

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

justify the radical Islamists who must be thwarted. Pressure by the United States on Israel for peace with Palestine is sorely needed. There are so many in the world in need of our help to feed and nurture the poor, the hungry and refugees. I do not see how we can justify sending so much of our taxpayer money aid to Israel. I am so tired of all of these car repair shops offering these so called “great deals” on oil changes, only to find out that it’s only up to five quarts of oil and then they charge you almost $5 for the extra quart because almost all cars nowadays use six! But for them it’s better to deceive the consumer and advertise a low price and then stick you for the extra quart and shop fees instead of advertising the real price. If your oil change is $25.99 you should have to advertise $25.99 not $9.99 and then in fine print put “up to five quarts plus shop fees and taxes” to lure people in the door. That should be considered false advertising. I do agree with the lead-off piece on Martha McSally. It will be interesting to see how much this self-proclaimed fighter can do as freshman congresswoman. Thomas Eric Duncan, who died from Ebola, lied to get into the country. Granted, how do you stop people from lying and don’t have symptoms upon boarding an aircraft? It was stated that if a person wants to get to this country, they can simply lie or go to another country that doesn’t have Ebola and fly out. The family is rightfully upset but with the hospital who dropped the ball initially. Citizenship should not be a factor. Every president comments on killings of others. Focus was put on this by the writer. It was newsworthy to him simply because both are black. Statistically, more blacks are killed than whites due to black-on-black violence. More needs to come out on this case. But after all is said and done, the kid was not armed. The cop was. There have been mercenaries since

the start of war. We had some fighting in our war of independence. Civil war you could buy your way out of it. Hire someone to fight for you. I am not worried about junk mail— political or not. I just toss it. The USPS gets paid from that. Hard to say what was sent to this one person was illegal. The postal authorities are the ones to contact. Not sure of what to call people of faith. There are good Catholics and bad ones. Same goes for any religion. Emphasis has been place on Islam for the simple reason extremists got to airplanes and flew into the Twin Towers. Wonder what the blowback would have been if Catholic nuns flew airplanes into the towers. Military hardware and weapons systems that are not needed. Many a Legislators have pet projects or want to keep jobs in their district. Engines for the C-130 were contracted even though they are not needed. Ike warned of the military industrial complex. Added should be overzealous congress people. Congress has an approval rating lower than the APR for a house loan. But for some reason, many of the worst are still there. It was said on Sunday political shows that people don’t like Congress, but like their incumbent. I voted for my incumbent because he doesn’t take away anything that we need, i.e., Social Security. There is so much ignorance and racism in this column it is hard to zero in on one contributor. The president can’t act alone, except for executive action and, if he did, others would say he was a dictator. Everything is his fault. I wonder what these people will say when their wonderful Republican president messes with their Social Security and Medicare? I don’t understand how this president has taken this country to rack and ruin by not doing anything. People forget the Congress has a part in this mess too. I might concentrate on ACA next time. My care is with the VA, but it does affect my family.

What Do You Think? Leave a message: (480) 348-0343 option 8 e-mail us: soundoff@lovinlifeafter50.com Write us: Lovin’ Life After 50 3200 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

New Hope for Stroke Victims! SPECIAL EVENT

WELCOME.

AESTHETICMD CLINIC 7580 E. Gray Rd., Suite #103 Friday, Dec. 19th at 1 PM After a short presentation Dr. Roman Chubaty will answer questions.

No one should have to live the rest of their life with limitations - give yourself the gift of life back. New hope for people suffering from: • Stroke • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) • Alzheimer’s Disease

Please RSVP to 480-540-8503 Jill Chubaty Chief Executive Officer Jill, the wife of Dr. Roman Chubaty, is not only the CEO and co-owner of Arizona Neurological Recovery, she is a true testimony to the amazing results of the anti-TNF treatment as she is a stroke survivor herself.

ANR uses a patented medical procedure which is a FDA approved medication to alleviate the symptoms of these conditions. The medication is administered using a simple procedure. There is virtually no discomfort.

Arizona Neurological Recovery 480-540-8503 www.azanr.com 7580 E Gray Rd, Suite 103 Scottsdale, AZ 85260

There’s a reason they call us MR MR. Rooter Plumbing isis: LOCAL and located the heartwill: of Mesa, Mr. Rooter Mr. in Rooter • TheWe industry with our unmatched • Do the jobprofessionals right the first time,of saving you AZ. areleader the sewer and drain cleaning Mesa. time and money. warranties on all work performed. “NoMR.bodyRooter is aRooter fullPlumbing servicewar-plumbing company that specializes beats a Mr. • Be clean and courteous, while performwarranty on all parts professional plumbingissues. and drain MR. serin ranty.” sewer(Lifetime and drain issues as well as ing water treatment installed) vices. Rooter Plumbing hasnewyou covered coming andservice goingappointments, “if water we’re runs • The industry leader in technology, • Schedule which saves you a lot of money. available on your time. 24 hours a day 7 through it, we do it”. days a week and we never charge over• Mr. Rooter Plumbing is the home of the FREE SECOND OPINION. If someone has told you that they need to dig up your water or sewer line to repair/replace it. Please give us a call 1st. With the latest TrenchLess technologies available, we can replace your underground piping with little to NO DIGGING at all.

time.

• Provide a complimentary inline video camera inspection to ensure the problem has been solved, with every drain cleaning service (a $250 Value). • Exceed your expectations. We are not the ordinary plumber.

24/7 Emergency Service • Immediate Response 60 Minutes or Less

623.455.5819

EASY FINANCING: FIX IT FAST AND PAY IT OFF SLOW. Up to 12 months ZERO Interest.

Licensed/Bonded/Insured Lic #114708-114709

phoenix.mrrooter.com

15% OFF

All Services With this coupon. Expires 12/31/2014

There’s a reason they call us MR MR. Rooter Plumbing is LOCAL and located in the heart of Mesa, AZ. We are the sewer and drain cleaning professionals of Mesa. MR. Rooter is a full service plumbing company that specializes in sewer and drain issues as well as water treatment issues. MR. Rooter Plumbing has you covered coming and going “if water runs through it, we do it”.

480.526.7214 phoenix.mrrooter.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 39

How Can I Get the Most Out of My Insurance?

ealth insurance is often one of the largest expenses in a family’s budget. As such, it is important to understand your benefits and how you can get the most out of them. By utilizing your health insurance to the fullest, you may find ways to save money and improve your health. Listed below are some suggestions for you to maximize the benefits from your health plan.

can cost you sick days at work and a visit to the doctor. By getting your flu shot, as well as other immunizations, you are preventing potentially serious complications that will end up saving you money in the long run. Medicare Open Enrollment: Medicare open enrollment ends on Sunday, Dec. 7. If you are not satisfied

90-Day Prescription Fills: By filling your medications for a 90-day supply, you can save yourself that monthly trip to the pharmacy. Most insurance companies allow for a 90day supply and some even offer a discounted rate for a 90-day supply versus a 30-day supply. Generic Prescriptions: By choosing generic prescriptions over brand-name medications you will be able to save money. Many individuals often ask if the generic drug is really as good as the brand name. The answer is yes. Generic drugs are identical to their brand-name counterpart in dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires that generic medications have the same quality, strength, purity and stability as the brand-name drugs. The biggest difference that you will see between the medications is cost. Generic drugs have reduced copays of 30 percent to 80 percent. If you are on a brand-name medication, request the generic next time you visit your pharmacy. If you are on a brand-name medication that does not yet have a generic, talk to your pharmacist about switching to a generic medication within the same medication class. Immunizations: Although most individuals do not look forward to getting immunizations, doing so may save you time and money. Take for example the influenza (flu) vaccine; most insurance companies fully cover the cost and you are able to receive it for zero copay. If you do not receive the vaccination, you are at an increased risk of getting the flu, which

page 40 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

with your current plan, you still have time to switch plans before the end of the year. By changing plans you may have cheaper copays for your medications. You should thoroughly research all options to see which plan will save you the most money. Your Walgreens pharmacist can help you research which plan may be the best for you.

There are a variety of ways to get the most out of your health benefits. Perhaps you may have further questions or concerns in regard to maximizing your insurance benefits. Talk to a Walgreens pharmacist today to help you research ways to get the most out of your insurance and improve your health!

On medicare part B and have diaBetes?

New Medicare changes may limit where you can get your diabetes testing supplies. The good news is that diabetes testing supplies are available at every Walgreens along with: • Easy, direct billing of Medicare Part B and most supplemental insurance • A wide selection of major national brands • Convenient 90-day supplies

It’s easy to switch! Visit your local Walgreens or call 888-380-8051. Walgreens is an accredited Medicare Part B supplier of diabetes testing supplies.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Lovin’ Life After 50 presents…

Lovin’ Life After 50 presents… Italian Vistas

13 Days • 18 Meals October 31 – November 12, 2015 Highlights: Rome, Coloseum, Ruins of Pompeii, Sorrento Coast, Isle of Capri, Florence, Statue of David, Leaning Tower of 13 Days ● 18 Meals October 31 – November 12, 2015 Pisa, Tuscan Winery, Venice, Murano Island, Verona, Stresa, Locarno (Switzerland) Highlights: Rome, Coloseum, (Featuring Northern Ireland) Ruins of Pompeii, Sorrento Coast, Isle of Capri, Florence, Statue of David,

Leaning Tower of Pisa, Tuscan Winery, Venice, Murano Island, Verona, Stresa, Locarno (Switzerland) Shades of Ireland (Featuring Northern Ireland)

(Featuring Northern Ireland) 13 Days • 17 Meals September 20 – October 2, 2015 Highlights: Dublin, Irish Evening, Kilkeny, Waterford Crystal, Blarney Castle, Jaunting Car Ride, Ring of Kerry, Killarney, 13 Days ● 17 Meals September 20 – October 2, 2015 Farm Visit, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Donegal Town, Lough Eske Castle, Derry, Giant’s Causeway, Glens of AnHighlights: Dublin, Irish Stays Evening, Kilkeny, Waterford Crystal, Blarney Castle, Jaunting Car Ride, Ring of trim, Belfast, Two Castle

Kerry, Killarney, Farm Visit, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Donegal Town, Lough Eske Castle, Derry, & Paris Giant’sLondon Causeway, Glens of Antrim, Belfast, Two Castle Stays 8 Days • 9 Meals November 2 – 9, 2015 Highlights: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, London Theatre Performance, Eurostar Train, Eiffel Tower Dinner, Seine River Cruise, Arc de Triomphe, Paradis Latin Cabaret

8 Days ● 9 Meals

November 2 – 9, 2015

TRAVEL PRESENTATION Highlights: Buckingham Palace, BigSPECIAL Ben, London Theatre Performance, Eurostar Train, Eiffel Tower MONDAY, JANUARY 5, 2015 • TIME 11:00 AM Dinner, Seine River Cruise, Arc de Triomphe, Paradis Latin Cabaret Granite Reef Senior Center SPECIAL TRAVEL PRESENTATION 1700 N. Granite Reef Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85257 TUESDAY, Please RSVP JANUARY 480-348-034320, ext. 2015 405

TIME 9:00 AM Double Tree Resort Reid Park, 445 South Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ 85711 Please RSVP 480-358-0343 ext. 405

For more information contact Steve H. Fish (480)-348-0343 ext. 405 • fishs@seniormedia.com www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 41

Listen Up! Hidden Danger in Popular Toys

Puzzle Answers ...from page 30

::by Arizona Commission for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing and Arizona Relay Service

he holidays are a wonderful and fun time to go shopping. While you are out buying presents for your family members—especially your grandchildren—it is important to read the warning labels for ageappropriate toys, small parts and other things that may be harmful. This also includes the noise level that a toy registers.

Classified & Friendship Ad Information Write your ad in the space provided. All ads must be prepaid before each monthly deadline. Deadline for ads is the 16th of each month. Your name, address and telephone number will not be printed in your ad. We will give it a code. All mail we receive with your code will be mailed to you at least once a week. We reserve the right to edit ads. Check your type of payment and mail to: Lovin' Life Newspapers 3200 N. Hayden Rd. Suite #210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 • Call 480-348-0343 Name: Address: City/State/Zip: Telephone #: Email:  Check/Money Order  Visa  MasterCard  American Express  Discover Acct# _________________________________________________ Card Exp. ____ / ____ /____ CVV#________________________________ Signature ______________________________________ CLASSIFIEDS INFORMATION Please check desired circulation:  Tucson  Sun Cities (Metro Phx)  East Valley (Metro Phx) Southeast Valley  Phoenix & Glendale  Scottsdale $25 first 30 words. 50¢ per word thereafter. $10 per additional zone.

FRIENDSHIP AD INFORMATION Standard Abbreviations Used in Friendship Ads

M = Male D = Divorced W = White LTR = Long Term Relationship

F = Female H = Hispanic NS = Non-smoker TLC = Tender Loving Care

W = Widowed B = Black ND = Non-drinker ISO = In Search of

$15 first 30 words. 25¢ per word thereafter Start Issue: _______ End Issue: _______ Check one:  Classiﬁed  Friendship Ad to Read: ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ (30) ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ ________________ How do I Answer a Friendship Ad? Compose your response and address it to: Drawer # ________ Lovin’ Life Newspapers, 3200 N. Hayden Rd., Suite 210, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

page 42 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

Why is this important? Noise is the No. 1 cause of hearing loss. By first grade, less than 1 percent of all children have hearing loss, but by the time they are teenagers, 20 percent of all children will have some sort of hearing loss. Much of it can be attributed to loud toys, but how do you know when loud is too loud? According to research, 85 decibels (dB) is the maximum volume a child should be exposed to for no more than eight hours. Decibels are a unit of measurement to gauge volume and decibel volume is measured in several industries including construction and engineering to ensure hearing safety. Sounds more than 100 dB can damage hearing in less than 15 minutes of exposure. Sounds over 100 dB—the equivalent to the volume of a motorcycle while riding—can damage hearing in less than 15 minutes of exposure. According to the Sight and Hearing Association, in 2013, seven of the top 18 most popular toys sold this holiday season tested above 100 dB when held close to the ear, and dangerously close to the 85 dB max when held at approximately arm’s length. Topping the list: • Disney Baby Einstein/Take Along Tunes: 114.8 dB near the ear, 88.1 dB at arm’s length • Twister Dance Rave: 107.9 dB near the ear, 83.5 dB at arm’s length • B. Meowsic (Piano): 106.8 dB near the ear, 87.9 dB at arm’s length • Doc McStuffins—Talkin’ CheckUp Set: 102.8 dB near the ear, 76.5 dB at arm’s length • Road

Rippers—Road

Rockin’

Ricky: 101.2 dB near the ear, 83.8 dB at arm’s length • Leap Frog—Chat and Count Smartphone: 100.7 dB near the ear, 78.9 dB at arm’s length • Fisher‐Price/Disney Planes Shake ‘n’ Go! El Chupacabra: 100.4 dB near the ear, 84.5 dB at arm’s length. What can be misleading is the distance at which the decibels are measured. Most children are not keeping toys at arm’s length; they use them closer and most often right next to their ears. You should ask yourself these questions when shopping: • Is the toy loud to you? Because if it is too loud to you, it is probably too loud for your grandchildren. • Do the toys have an on/off switch for the noise? It is easy to check if the toy has an on/off switch for the volume. Plus your children will probably thank you for this one. Along with watching the decibel levels, grandparents should also monitor their grandchildren when they are playing video games, watching television or listening to music. There should be time and volume limits that the children are exposed. Noise-reducing or volume-limiting headphones are a good investment. It is important to remember that if you can hear the music beyond the ear buds it is too loud. According to the American Speech Language Hearing Association, toys that you have already purchased should be inspected as well. Remove the batteries or discard the toys if they are too noisy and pose a potential danger. An alternative measure could be to place tape over the speakers on noisy toys.

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

BUSINESSES FOR SALE

HELP WANTED

COFFEE SHOP

CAREGIVERS IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

FOR SALE Great for Retired Couple Scottsdale 30K 602-418-4963

DANCES

DANCE TUESDAYS

2:00 - 4:30pm Greenfield Village 99 S. Quinn Crl. off Main St., Mesa

Good Times Band w/Wes Reed & Sylvia Dances Dec-March $6 pp Dec. Dates: 2, 9, 16, & 30 • 253-845-9321 No dance Dec. 23 Happy Holiday!

GARAGE DOOR REPAIR SUN DEVIL GARAGE DOOR REPAIR Stuck Door, Broken Spring, Opener Problems, Etc? Senior Discount AAA Discount 24 Hour Service Free Estimates 480-838-9397 GLASS SHOWER DOORS, MIRRORS, GLASS Family Owned with 33 years’ EXPERIENCE. Shower and tub enclosures Install new one or repair what you have, insulated units, window glass, mirrors, patio door glass, glass tops to protect your furniture. QUALITY SERVICE at Competitive Prices. FREE Estimates WESLEY’S GLASS & MIRROR Call 480-306-5113 wesleysglass.com SERVICING THE ENTIRE VALLEY HEADLIGHT RESTORATION GUARANTEED HEADLIGHT RESTORATION *1 Year Money-Back Guarantee *Improve your nighttime driving safety *Increase value of your vehicle *From $45.00 per set *Mobile Service Call Doug with Fas-Seal 480-252-4133 SPACE AVAILABLE Call for our specials 480-348-0343 x100

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

Compassionate CAREGIVERS to assist seniors in their homes. Training provided. Hourly, 12 Hour & 24 Hour shifts Up to $11/hr. on hourly shifts. Apply in person at 3850 E. Baseline Rd., Ste. 128 Mesa 85206 - (480) 827-4343 www.homeinstead.com/195

LEGAL HOUSE-CALL LEGAL SVCS BY EXPERIENCED ATTNY Low Prices – Wills, Trusts, Miller Trusts, Long Term Care, Probate, Medicare FREE estimate call: D’Jean Testa, Esq. at: 480-962-8248 MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOMES FOR SALE WONDERFUL SENIOR COMMUNITY Centrally located in Tucson Quiet neighborhood, close to shopping, hospitals, etc. Recreation Hall, Pool, Laundry One-and-Two Bedroom Mobile Homes available for sale Call 520-850-4763 for Details YOUR AD HERE You have a great business. Let everyone know about it. Know what happens when you don’t advertise? Nothing. Call Tracey Wilson to find out about our classified ad special rates. 480-348-0343 x100 REAL ESTATE FOR SALE BY OWNER CONDO IN 55+ COMMUNITY 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 Car Over-Sized Garage Move-In Ready Small Pets OK Carpet & tile in all the right places All appliances included. A Must See! 84 unit complex with pool, spa & clubhouse University & Val Vista area – Mesa 480-835-5044 Please leave a message

SENIOR SERVICES & ASSISTANCE COMPASSIONATE COMPANIONS If time or distance is preventing you from being with a loved one, then Compassionate Companions can help. Now you can provide the person you care about with a regular visit from a Compassionate Companion. All Companions have Fingerprint Clearance. North Scottsdale/North Phoenix Area Call Julie for details: 602-317-4977 EXCEPTIONAL HOME CARE AND AFFORDABLE PRIVATE PAY RATES We are Certified and Experienced in assisting Individuals with most Medical Conditions in the comfort of your home. Proof of: Certification Finger Print/Background Check On-Going Training Insurance Custom Rates from $13.00/Hour to $120.00/Night Call for more information: 480-261-9588 EXPERIENCED, COMPASSIONATE CUSTOM CARE Safety, independence, comfort, affordable non-medical in-home care with dignity Etoyle 602-690-6303 etoyletaylor@yahoo.com SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS SEWING MACHINE REPAIRS You watch, while I service in your home. All brands, including Kenmore. No waiting, no drop off. John McAulay East Valley – 480-897-0338 West Valley – 623-224-1371 Only $49.95 TRANSPORTATION SERVICES JACK’S TRANSPORTATION For Your Transportation Needs In business over 15 years 10 minutes early is “on time” Airports, date night, doctor appointments etc. We Service Mesa Gateway 602-770-4648

TRAVEL ENOS KING-LEWIS II, AGENT Guide, Producer Fun Trips! Prosperity - Wellness www.Enos4Prosperity.com 800-824-1450 (Call 24/7) enos4homes@hotmail.com WANTED TO BUY CA$H PAID! WE BUY DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Unopened/Unexpired CALL NOW!! 480-269-3289 WANT TO PURCHASE Minerals and other oil & gas interests Send Details to: PO Box 13557 Denver, CO 80201 WANTED! Old Coins Paper Money Gold & Silver Collectibles of Interest Hummels Comic Books Jewelry Militaria Wanted by retired collector Immediate cash payment Highest current price or will trade. 480-270-9404 or 602-374-4465 Call Now! FRIENDSHIP ADS DRAWER 9791P WIDOWS AND WIDOWERS CLUB Come join us for lunch the last Wednesday of each month. Black Bear, 6039 W. Bell Rd. at 11:30 am Call 602-843-0404 GREAT WAY TO MEET NEW FRIENDS

DRAWER LL1223 You only get one chance to make an impression – if you don’t care, don’t answer this ad. You’re an adult senior, fairly intelligent & want to be with a lady who’s always smiling and has a great sense of humor. Enjoy all kinds of music, interesting books in all subjects, healthy eating & varied conversation. Interested? Write! DRAWER LL1234 Refined lady WWNS 70’s searching for tall gentleman from the N Scottsdale – Cave Creek area to share time with. I enjoy movies, short trips, fine dining, casinos & quiet time at home. Let’s talk. DRAWER LL1237 Youthful DWM, early 70’s, 6’2”, 200#, Healthy, Fit, Educated, Variety of Interests. ISO Attractive lady – Age, Ethnicity Unimportant. DRAWER LL1252 Hispanic man, easy-going type with no vices, on the reserved side with husky build, also a kind, gentle and caring person. Enjoy dining out, movies, spectator sports, some travel, etc. Looking for lady with similar interests and qualities. Speak Spanish. DRAWER LL1339 Retired lady would like to meet a nice gentleman for friendship first, LTR later – Mesa area Preferred. NS, ND, I love Country Music and home life. Companionship is very important. I miss cuddling & tender loving care. Togetherness is so important in old age. Please remember to send your phone number & address.

DRAWER LL1067 Male senior citizen would enjoy sharing love, good times, companionship, cuddling & kisses with a beautiful, honest & shapely lady of a similar age, race unimportant. Please write with phone number.

DRAWER LL1401 Attractive DWF, ISO single senior male 68+ who knows life, can still offer fun, caring & love in the Avondale, El Mirage, Glendale or Peoria area. I’m energetic, positive, active & have a great sense of humor - 5’ & 112#. Please tell me about yourself, your hopes and expectations. Please include Phone #.

DRAWER LL1144 To all those who have answered my ad from July thru November; Thank you for taking the time to write, I valued each letter that I received. I wish you all the Blessing of finding the one you are looking for.

DRAWER LL1496 Woman wanted 65+ ND/NS, someone interested in sharing life as a companion to WWM 70+, 6ft/180lbs, slender build, with a country lifestyle. Please write with phone number.

DRAWER LL1426 S/W, N/S Retired gentleman looking for that slim special lady. Late 70s early 80s, good health, dine in/out movies, short day trips, whatever we both like, When we get to know each other, longer trips. Time is flying by! Let’s have fun with the good years ahead. Like to have lunch with you or a glass of wine – treat on me. Chandler, Tempe, Ahwatukee area. DRAWER LL1460 Retired, Christian man, elderly but healthy enjoys communicating in Spanish. Would like to know an educated lady 75 or older feels alone. DRAWER LL1482 SWM early 60s looking for LTR – one with a sense of humor. I’m 5’11”, blue eyes, blond hair going white with a sandy blond goatee. I’m 4’ tall and 4’ wide – I’m a beach ball with eyes…Ha-ha – I’m 173lbs. My humor can be dry at times & other times, a bit on the raw side, but with both can produce belly laughs. If you’d like to meet someone that’s very real – well here I am. DRAWER LL1491 WWF, attractive widow, young 70, still a kid at heart, an on the go person in the Gilbert area. Have a lot of married friends, but feel like a third wheel going places with them. Looking for an attractive, sincere, with a sense of humor, nice gentleman friend, younger 67-73, to go places with and have fun. I enjoy music, dancing, movies, bowling, sight-seeing and more. If U R the one 4 me, please write with your phone number. Serious replies only. DRAWER LL1494 WSM, 68, 5’9”, 166, NS Independent baseball scout and general contractor looking for SF 53-66 with personality plus romance who likes fine dining and travel, moves for LTR. Please send picture and phone number. DRAWER LL1495 WM, NS, ND ISO TLC & LTR with someone who wants to spend time with me. Enjoy movies, dining out, holding hands, pillow talk, holding each other & romantic kisses. Want to place a Friendship Ad? See the facing page for instructions on how to place or answer a Friendship ad.

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 43

FREE !

Now in 27th our Year! Presents...

Tuesday, Jan. 13th, 2015 9am-1pm | Admission Free

Sundial Recreation Center 14801 North 103rd Ave., Sun City, AZ 85351 Lots of Prizes and Giveaways! Also sponsored by

Hosted by Danny Davis Entertainment by

(480) 348-0343 • (800) 959-1566 • f: (480) 348-2109 • www.lovinlifeafter50.com/expo page 44 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

T HE F INISH L INE Arizona’s Leader in Senior Fitness Happy Holidays!

2014 Sponsors

By Irene Stillwell, ASO Executive Director

olidays are some of the happiest times of the year for grandparents. Those who are far away from their grandchildren often go “home” for the holidays or have their loved ones visit them. In this changing world, many grandparents have become disillusioned by the holidays’ commercialism. Ads and marketing campaigns are not what it’s all about. Every grandparent can choose if he or she wants to “buy into it.” There is such a temptation to meet what is thought to be the expectations of those to whom we give gifts. It doesn’t have to be so.

The most important gift we can give to another human being is love. There is no substitute for genuine caring and interest. There is no gift as precious as a listening, understanding ear. Perhaps the older generation can set the example by putting less emphasis on material possessions to be given and

then discarded, and more attention to providing memories. Time spent with grandchildren will be kept in their hearts and minds long after toys or gifts are forgotten. We at the Arizona Senior Olympics wish you the happiest, most love-filled of holidays.

2015 Arizona Senior Olympic Games Calendar Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday 2/21

ACTIVE LIFESTYLE FUN FAIR! Breakfast OPENING CEREMONY Cause Walk

Sunday 2/22

2/24

2/25

2/26

2/27

2/28

3/1

Shuffleboard Alpine Skiing

Shuffleboard

Aerobic Fitness Archery

Bowling Racquetball Table Tennis Tennis

3/2

3/3

3/4

3/5

3/6

3/7

3/8

Golf

Badminton

Badminton Billiards Cycling

3/12

3/13

3/14

3/15

M. Softball

3/10

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

3/11

Basketball Handball Pistol Rifle, Highpower W. Softball Sporting Clays Volleyball

The Finish Line Newsletter is produced by Arizona Senior Olympics, founded by:

Field & Racewalk Swimming

2/23

3/9

in partnership with the cities of Chandler, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe and the communities of Sun City, Sun City West and Sun City Grand

Arizona Senior Olympics

Basketball Handball W. Softball Volleyball

P.O. Box 33278 Phoenix, AZ 85067-3278

602-274-7742

web site: www.seniorgames.org

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 45

www.seniorgames.org

Watch for the ASO in Your Email The Birdies are Coming!

ere’s your chance to help support Arizona Senior Olympics and have some fun at the same time. Guess how many “birdies” will be shot at the 2015 Waste Management Phoenix Open and pledge money. One hundred percent of your fully tax-deductible donation will support Arizona Senior Olympics, a program of the Arizona Lifelong Fitness Foundation. It’s easy and fun. Visit www. birdiesforcharity.com and make

a pledge to the Arizona Lifelong Fitness Foundation, charity No. 176. Help the ALFF reach its goal of $5,000, which will be used to replace computer equipment that is more than 10 years old. Then, the organization can serve athletes better and faster. Both organizations’ mission is “to promote the health and physical fitness of adults 50 and better through organized events, competition and education.”

The Flu and You

acebook is here to stay and offers some wonderful ways to connect with friends, colleagues and family members near and far. You don’t have to reveal any more of your personal information on FB than you want. It’s a safe way to share if you are prudent and responsible.

emember the old days when you wrote a letter, put a 5-cent stamp on it and sent it out? You expected an answer in a couple of weeks. Today, “snail mail,” as it’s called, has been replaced with email because it is cheaper and faster. Although many aspects of email are annoying and sometimes worrisome, it is, without a doubt, considered the primary form of communication for many. Arizona Senior Olympics lost funding for mailings in 2008 when the program was cut by the City of Phoenix. Since that time, the ASO has come to rely on email as its preferred method of communicating with its athletes. The organization also became the 501(c)(3) called Arizona Lifetime Fitness

Arizona Senior Games Fundraiser

ere are tips for healthy living from the National Council on Aging and the Centers for Disease Control. • Influenza, commonly known as “the flu,” is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease, especially in adults 65 years of age and older. It’s a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. • The flu can worsen existing health conditions, and it’s especially dangerous for people with chronic health problems. • The best way to help protect again the flu is a yearly vaccination.

• There is a vaccine designed specifically for adults ages 65 and older. This higher-dose vaccine addresses the age-related decline of the immune system. Be good to yourself and those around you. Get your flu shot. After you open your free Facebook account, you will be able to access Arizona Senior Olympics in the Search for People line. Just type in our name and you can become a part of the ASO Facebook family! We want to make our Facebook page a place where you can ask questions, share ideas and learn about the latest news and announcements from the Arizona Senior Olympics.

page 46 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

o further aid in the continuation and development efforts of the Arizona Senior Olympics, we are holding a Bowl Season Fundraiser. Purchasing seats for either the Fiesta or Cactus bowls is really fun with the interactive pick-your-ownseat map. Bowl seats, as well as accessible seating, are available through our pickyour-own-seat map. For orders of four or less, follow these steps to help all our

Foundation and sometimes the emails will come from that name or with the traditional name of Arizona Senior Olympics. The ALFF/ASO organization tries very hard to limit the number of emails it sends each year, so it will not become problematic. However, there are times when the organization does send them out and, hopefully, they will not end up in a spam filter. These are the instances when the ALFF/ASO sends email: 1. The newsletter, The Finish Line, monthly as a part of Lovin’ Life After 50. It is also available at Walgreens stores. 2. Registration confirmations are sent. 3. Announcements of special events are emailed. 4. The ALFF/ASO sends requests for donations to support the organization. The organization never sells or distributes email lists or its database to any other group, company or agency. friends, family and volunteers support our fundraising goals. 1. Go to tickets.fiestabowl.org in your Internet browser 2. On the left menu click “Promo Codes” 3. Enter: SGAMES 4. Pick out your seats 5. Checkout For added savings on orders of five or more, contact our representative, Zach Fish, at (480) 517-6274 or via email at zfish@fiestabowl.org. All orders will be shipped the beginning of December. Thank you in helping the Arizona Senior Games offer a variety of events that promote a lifetime of active lifestyles.

Shirts Available

ASO’s most popular shirt is on sale at the ASO office. Black with a bright “Fitness Champion” design, this shirt is a real bargain for only $15. (including shipping)

Only $15 each

To order a shirt, call (602) 274-7742. www.lovinlifeafter50.com

www.seniorgames.org

Humana Volunteers Sign Up for 2015 Games

umana volunteers are an integral part of the senior games. They volunteer in many games throughout the United States as well as the National Senior Games. Arizona is no exception, and the Humana volunteers have been a vital part of the success of the Arizona Senior Olympic Games. In addition to Humana’s financial support, its employees sign up to help in a myriad of ways at the annual games. With a need for 600-plus volunteers to make the ASO Games a success each year, the organization is always looking for willing helpers. Some of the volunteers are those with expertise in a particular sport, but others carry out important tasks such as check-in, results tabulating, awards presentations, signage management, hospitality and many other things.

Without these generous folks, the ASO Games would not be possible. Humana offers its employees the opportunity to volunteer for the games and many who have never seen the events up close are astounded and inspired by the athletes’ performance. For some it is a life-changing experience. Last year, one of the Humana volunteers said that she was surprised and happy to see seniors who were healthy and active even in their 80s and 90s. She vowed to get her parents into activities that lead to this kind of healthy lifestyle. At the 2015 games in February, Humana will once again be represented at the events. It is this kind of corporate engagement that led former President Bill Clinton to say, “Citizen service is the very American idea that we meet our

challenges not as isolated individuals, but as members of a true community, with all of us working together. Our mission is nothing less than to spark a renewed sense of obligation, a new sense of duty, a new season of service.” Without a doubt, there would be no senior games movement without the dedicated service of volunteers. You are invited to join the Humana team in volunteering for the 2015 Arizona Senior Olympic Games. For job descriptions and information, visit www.seniorgames.org and click on “volunteers” in the left-side index. Then call the ASO office at (602) 274-7742 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday to sign up, As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we do, but we make a life by what we give.”

COME TO THE FAIR!

The Arizona Senior Olympics’

‘Active Lifestyle Fun Fair’ 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 at Saguaro High School, 6250 N. 82nd St., Scottsdale 85250

Vendors! Giveaways! Prizes! Free Breakfast!

www.innsuites.com

Albuquerque Airport • Tempe/Phx Airport Tucson City Center • DFW Studio InnSuites King

$69

Executive 2-Room King Suite $89 Presidential Jacuzzi

$99

• Add $10 Phoenix/Scottsdale, Yuma Mall, Tucson Foothills • Add $20 Ontario/LA/Disneyland, • Subject to projected space availability • Good thru 12/30/14

FREE

Hot Breakfast Buffet • Evening Social Hour • Parking WIFI/Hi-Speed Internet • Long Distance Calls to Canada, Mexico & USA

1-800-842-4242

T he best time to make your move is now.

To learn more about current openings in our senior living community, call (623) 875-0146. All faiths or beliefs are welcome.

InnSuites is an IBC Member. More Independent Hotels at IBCHotels.com

www.lovinlifeafter50.com

December 2014 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : page 47

urb

WinterSavings! Take advantage of our best specials ever!

15% OFF

All Santa Fe Colors

On Sale Now!

All Tumbled Pavers All Colors Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details.

Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details.

Expires 12/31/2014

25% OFF All Boulders

Pit Run & Surface Select Restrictions apply. See sales associate for details. Expires 12/31/2014

• Pavers • Coping • Top Soil & Blends • Travertine • Flagstone •Arena Sand • River Rock • Railroad Ties

• Decorative Rock • Artificial Grass • Masonry Block • Weed Barrier • Boulders • Sealers • Sand • Rebar SURPRISE 13460 W. Westgate Dr. Bell & Grand 623-556-5050

GLENDALE 11550 W. Northern Ave. 112th Ave & Northern 623-977-4800

GOODYEAR 18335 W. McDowell I-10 & Citrus (W. of 303) 623-853-1833

page 48 : : Lovin’ Life After 50 : : December 2014

PHOENIX 23044 N. 7th St. 7th St. & Pinnacle Peak 623-780-3076

PHOENIX 1638 E. Deer Valley Rd. 16th St. & Deer Valley 623-869-7400