Club Connections, Interest Groups and More

ARMED FORCES SUPPORT GROUP

You do not have to be a Veteran to belong to the AFSG, although many of our members are Veterans. You only need to have a desire to say “Thank You” to our active and Veteran military families and wish to continue to help many of them on their journey of healing. The AFSG has been very successful raising and donating money to vetted 501c 3 Veteran support foundations. Three of these foundations are within the state of AZ – Honor Flight AZ, Soldiers Best Friend, Foundation for Service Dog Support, and one national organization, Feherty’s Troop First Foundation. We would like you to join us in our mission of supporting those who have served, do serve and continue to serve and sacrifice so much to give us our freedom. For more information check out our website – scgarmedforcessupportgroup.org “We shall never forget” ART CLUB

The best way to enjoy the variety of classes offered is to join the Art Club. The annual membership fee is $20 and you can join online at scgartclub.org. After completing the application, you can pay via PayPal or drop by the club. From classes and socials to exhibits and gatherings by medium, the Art Club is open and we’re having FUN creating! Take a look below. September 27, 9:00 am-4:00 pm Art Club Saguaro Sunset Watercolor with Judy Wolf Course Fee: 6 hr. session on Monday for $60 (Gold Member Fee $50) Beginning Watercolor, supplies Included. Learn how to do a simple cactus drawing and mix colors for a beautiful sunset (and have fun!). There will be a one hour lunch break. Please bring an old towel (white best), apron, paper towels and tissues. All other supplies provided by the Instructor. Please call, Judy Wolf with any questions at 623-214-8960. Objective: Students will complete a Saguaro Sunset Watercolor. Syllabus and signup: http://www. scgartclub.org BILLARDS

We are open to all SCG Community Association Members no experience necessary! We have eight new Diamond Pool tables, which are one of the best available for professional players. Check out our calendar for Club activities. Visit our website at www.grandbilliards.org for activity schedules, photos, and more. BOCCE

All Grand residents are invited to join us for Drop-In Bocce. We’ll teach you the game if you’re new to it, or just join us to play twice a week. No registration or fees required. Tuesdays 9 a.m. | Wednesdays 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome to join in. We’re having fun while the weather is nice. The start time is subject to change as the weather changes. For information, contact president@scgbocce.com or our website www.scgbocce.com BOOMERS CLUB

Sun City Grand Boomers is a 500 + member social club open to all Sun City Grand residents. Check us out at www.scgboomers.com That is where you can sign up for membership and see new events as our members schedule them. Membership in Boomers is an excellent way for new residents to establish contacts in the SCG Community. We always look forward to meeting new "Boomers." If you have membership questions, you can always contact our Membership Chair at membershipscgboomers@ gmail.com. Besides monthly events such as happy hours and luncheons, we are planning several significant events for this fall. In October we will have a large Tailgate Party at the Pavilion, as well as a Chili Cook Off and a New Members Breakfast. Check our website for dates and details. BRIDGE CLUB

There is always an eventual winner in bridge but for most players it is the social aspect of the game and particularly the partnership dynamics that gives bridge its main appeal. The club is now open with limited social games: Monday afternoon, Wednesday evening and Thursday afternoon. Duplicate games are now open on Sunday and Wednesday starting at 1PM. Please visit the bridge club website at www. scgbridgeclub.com for additional information and updates. Resumption for all scheduled Bridge games (social and duplicate) will resume starting in October. CANASTA

Canasta is played at the Chaparral Center on Monday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and Wednesday afternoons at 1:00 p.m. Tournaments are held on the first and third Monday and Wednesday of each month. We welcome new members! Two training sessions are required before joining. Training is not available in November or December. Parties are held throughout the year. Contact Joan Mattick, 623-975-1150. CLAY ARTS

As the temperatures are rising come and cool off at the Clay Arts Studio while exercising your talents created from a bag of clay. Join us for ongoing classes in hand building and wheel throwing. You can also learn new techniques in all types of high fire and low fire glazing. Register on-line for one of the classes. We are thrilled to welcome the new, professional grade, Bailey Slab Roller for use by our members. It could not be easier to roll out a slab of clay! An instructional video is on-line for review before using this one pass through slab roller. Our participation at The Market At Grand was a sell out! Once again were able to introduce the community to the many talents of our artists who work in clay. If you missed it, be sure to visit our Gallery on-line. New artists and new works are always being added. Need a bag of clay, a new rib, or want a specific tool? It very well might be in stock in our Clay Supply Cabinet or we can order it for you. Save yourself a trip to get it, wait for it to come in the mail, and extra shipping charges. And pay using your credit card, right in the studio. It’s a perfect time of the year to join the Clay Arts Club. New members are always welcome. We continue to adhere to CDC and CAM guidelines. Visit us on-line at grandclayarts.com GRAND COMPUTERS

Open Monday - Friday, 12:30 - 3:30 pm. Free Tech Help for Members available in the club EVERY Tuesday from 12:30-2:30 pm. Visit our website www.grand computers.org for more information about the Grand Computers Club. Every Tuesday in September Tech Help 12:30 - 2:30 pm in the Club. September 13th Digital Scrapbooking SIG Meeting 6 - 8 pm September 27th Digital Scrapbooking SIG Meeting 6 - 8 pm September 27th NEW Fall Semester Classes available for review online DANCE CLUB

The SCG Dance Club is eager to get back to hosting our dances and dance lessons. We will post the latest information we have on the dance club website: scgdanceclub.org. DANCE CLUB LESSONS

Line Dance News: The new season of Line Dance lessons began in July with Brenda Thomason on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Cimarron Center. This year the hours will be 10 a.m. to noon. Howard Klemmer has agreed to step in to host lessons for now. For further information write: Line-Dance-Dir@scgdanceclub.org. Residents $5, non-residents $7. Ballroom Lessons: Ballroom is excited to announce that it has contracted with an excellent husband and wife team of competition-level dancers and instructors: Julianne and Paul Daniels of Dancewise Studios. Together they have decades of combined international teaching, demonstrations, competitions, and judging experience. Julianne, a certified DAVIDA dance instructor competes in American Smooth, American Rhythm, International Standard, an International Latin. She will be doing the majority of the teaching at Grand. Lessons will begin September 21 which is several weeks earlier than past years. Lessons will be Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. at Cimarron Center. Basic/beginner lessons are held from 4 to 5 p.m. An intermediate level class is held from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. Residents $5, non-residents $7. No preregistration necessary. For further information write Ballroom-Dir@scgdanceclub.org. DOMINOES CLUB

For more information, call the President, Pat Johnson, 623–203–7713. DRAMA & COMEDY CLUB

The Drama and Comedy Club is looking forward to a return to normal in our next season. Most productions planned for this past season have been re-scheduled for the coming year. This past year did feature our first, and very successful, outdoor productions in the amphitheater, and our two virtual productions that were streamed worldwide from Broadway on Demand.

There are many opportunities to participate in the Club. In fact, there are more members who are not actors, than are actors. See the ad in this magazine for a description of how you can be involved. In particular, we are putting a special focus on dancers. Whether you have danced previously, years ago, or not at all, we have the class for you. Come join us, we offer both Jazz and Tap Dance Technique Classes. So much fun, make new friends, learn something new or brush up on your steps, a great form exercise and camaraderie and good way to beat the heat! Any questions, please call Robin Kachurak, Dance Committee Chair at 818-7954859. You can also find everything you need to know at granddrama.com. For general Club questions, contact Jeff Martini at 610-304-4129. EUCHRE CLUB

Call President (Rich Eggen) 248–310–7561 for additional information. FISHING CLUB

Club members have fishing experience in all parts of the U.S., Canada and around the world. Check our Club Website www.scgfishing.weebly.com for more information. Club goals include sport fishing and enjoying the outdoors with friends. Members enjoy fly fishing and spin fishing and taking an active role in the promotion of fishing and conservation. Fishing trips are organized to areas in Arizona such as day trips to Lake Pleasant and the Salt River and overnight to the White Mountains, Lees Ferry, the San Juan River in New Mexico, Alaska and Canada. The Club assists in stocking fish at Lake Nine and has directions and fishing equipment for kids or grand kids to fish Lake Nine. The Club also supports community efforts including Healing Waters, Adaptive Kids Fishing, and the Veteran’s Home fishing outing. To contact a club officer for information or to find our about grandkids fishing in Lake Nine, please email infoscgfishing@gmail.com. GARDEN CLUB

The garden club board is working to bring you informative and exciting speakers to help us garden in the Low Sonoran Desert that we live in. Our first meeting will be October 21 at 8:30 AM in the Gila Room in the Cimarron Center. We are looking forward to our in-person meetings this year, and we will be monitoring the COVID situation over the next few months so that we will be using safety practices that are appropriate. We meet the 3rd Thursday of the month in the Gila Room at the Cimarron Center at 8:30AM, in October, November, January, February, April and May. We plan a field trip in March. Our dues are $10.00 payable at or before the first meeting you attend. We will be sending out membership renewal forms to our last year’s members and those who were members prior to COVID by email. For new members, you can pick up a membership form in the Club area at the Sonoran Plaza, or email SCGGardenClub@gmail.com, or come to our October meeting. Please volunteer to help with the hospitality committee with set up before the meeting, or the plant give-away table. More information about our October speaker and topic will be in the October Lifestyles magazine. Questions or to volunteer to help at the meetings, please email SCGGardenClub@gmail.com. GLASS ARTS

The glass arts club is welcoming new members! Whether you aspire to make a beautiful stainedglass window for your home, design a mosaic masterpiece, or enjoy creating a one-of-a-kind fused glass piece, Grand Glass Arts encourages you to explore the world of glass art. The first step to creating your masterpiece is to join the club by going to grandglassarts.com and clicking on the ‘Join Us’ tab or stopping by the glass arts studio to complete an application there. Next, you will be contacted by the Glass Arts Education Co-chairs to schedule your two orientation classes. The first class is the ‘Glass Arts Overview’ and helps you understand how our club operates. Your training continues with the ‘Glass Arts Skills’ class where you learn to lay out patterns on glass, use glass tools to cut and separate glass, and learn how to set up and use a grinder to perfect glass pieces. Questions? Kathy Cihlar at education@ grandglassarts.com for additional information.

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GOLF—150 GOLF CLUB

Par–3 golf at Sun City Grand. The co–ed 150 Golf Club plays nine holes from tees 150 yards or less from the pin Sunday afternoon. If you want to work on your short game, are new to golf or just want enjoy nine holes from a shorter distance, give us a try. We would love to have you as our guest. We are a relaxed, fun–loving group. Info: Denny Spencer 425–210–6973. GOLF—LADIES GRAND NINERS

Club website: www.ladiesgrandniners.golfgenius. com Meeting information: The Ladies Grand Niners membership year is October 1- September 30 each year. We play golf in a shotgun format on Tuesdays, November through May. Based on availability, members sign up to play at either 12:30 or 3:00. In the summer months, members can choose to play 9-holes of golf between 6–7AM or 18 holes at 7 AM. (Please note that, with restrictions related to COVID-19, we have been playing with tee times instead of shotguns since mid-March 2020. The format is subject to change.) Membership Ladies Grand Niners is processed through Arizona Golf Association. Members are required to have an active membership in the Arizona Golf Association (AGA), select Ladies Grand Niners as your club and be a resident of Sun City Grand with a valid Community Association Member (CAM) number. The LGN membership rate is discounted for those who join after April 1. Members are required to have a GHIN handicap index. If you do not have a GHIN handicap index, you must establish one. A 9–hole handicap index is also required to be eligible for prizes in any of our monthly Play of the Day events and for our annual President’s Cup Tournament. An 18-hole World Handicap System (WHS) GHIN Handicap Index is established by playing a six 9-hole rounds or a combination of 9 and18-hole rounds to equal 54 holes. The18-hole handicap index is converted to a 9-hole handicap index for our league. A member must play with the Ladies Grand Niners a minimum of 5–9-hole rounds in order to be eligible to play in the annual President’s Cup tournament (held in March each year). Club Description: Ladies Grand Niners has over 200 members. We prefer to play 9-holes of golf instead of the traditional 18-holes of golf. Although Desert Springs is our home course, we also play Cimarron, Granite Falls North and Granite Falls South during our season. We play by USGA Rules and expect our members to have a general knowledge of the Rules of Golf and some golf experience. Our motto is “Fun, Friendship, and Golf”! For information on how to join our club through Arizona Golf Association go to ladiesgrandniners. golfgenius.com and click on the link for our membership information or contact our membership co-chairs at membership. ladiesgrandniners@gmail.com. GOLF—MENS 9 HOLE

The Men's Nine Hole Golf Club thanks you for the opportunity to tell you a little about our club. As our name implies, we are an organization for male Sun City Grand residents who play nine holes of golf each week, rather than the usual 18. While we are a golf club, we also place a high priority on having fun and making lasting friendships. Our motto is "Twice The Fun in Half The Time". For more information visit our website: http://mens9hole.homestead.com GOLF—LADIES 18 HOLE LEAGUE

If you enjoy golfing and socializing with other friendly women, then the Grand Ladies 18-Hole Golf League is a perfect fit for you. GLGA 18Hole League is affiliated with the Arizona Golf Association (AGA) and members are required to comply with USGA rules of golf. We play every Tuesday, rotating among all four SCG golf courses. GLGA is a year-round league. You must have a current handicap or, establish a handicap within 30 days of joining the league in order to compete in weekly (Tuesday) play events. The maximum handicap allowed on each golf course is 40. In addition to our weekly play events, several major tournaments are held throughout the year, including a Member-Member, Member-Guest, League Championship. The League also supports a variety of charitable activities. Our President is Lin Rigutto. To learn about GLGA, go to our website: www.glga-grandladiesgolfassociation. golfgenius.com Or, feel free to contact our Membership Director at GLGAMembership@ gmail.com. Membership applications are also available at Granite Falls Golf Course and Sonoran Plaza, just left of the library entrance. GOLF—LADY PUTTERS

Lady Putters is a way to get outdoors, socialize and enjoy a game. It's a way to practice your putting skills or learn to play a new game. Every week, the putting course is arranged differently so it remains a challenge. You can putt once a week in Sun City Grand from November through May. Join Lady Putters. We would love to see you. For information, go to our website at https://scgladyputters.com/ or send an email to pamlang22@gmail.com GOLF—MEN PUTTERS

HAVE ANY INTEREST IN PUTTING? Want to meet others that share this interest? If so, then plan to come over to the beautiful 18-hole putting green located just west of the Cimarron club house, right off of W. Clearview Blvd. You are invited to play a “guest” round with a Men Putters club member. PUTTING SCHEDULE The Men Putters do “their thing” weekly on Tuesday and Wednesday at 1:00 PM, on both days, starting in November. (In the summer, we go to an early morning start time in order to beat the heat.) Members feel free to pick whatever day they prefer to participate and some even putt both days. HERE IS A TYPICAL DAILY EVENT Register to play, be paired with another person, putt 18 holes, and lastly, participate in a 19th hole challenge (this is a special one-hole challenge). Other change-of-pace fun putting challenges are offered throughout the year long program. SOCIAL ACTIVITIES There are some occasional social activities when members meet to vote on new officers OR just meet for club sponsored soda and hot dogs. VOLUNTEERS Member volunteers run the club’s daily putting activities such as setting up the course, registering members and guests, etc. If you are a golfer, the club is a great way to sharpen your putting skills. If you don't golf, or no longer golf, the club offers an opportunity to enjoy one of the best parts of the sport in a friendly, yet competitive manner. All skill levels are welcome. To equalize performance results and the receipt of monetary awards, individual handicaps are recalculated weekly. The new season starts on November 2. Rules and regulations are simple and will be explained to newcomers when you sign in. COME JOIN US. For more information, please visit our website at https://scgmensputters.weebly.com/ GOLF—COUPLES PUTTING

The Couples Putting Club is a co-ed charter club at Sun City Grand in Surprise, AZ. We are a putting only club that plays on an 18-hole course that is setup differently each month. Our goal is to provide an opportunity for experienced golfers and novices alike to compete on the putting green and at the same time, have fun and make new friends. Above all, we want our members to enjoy themselves while utilizing our wonderful putting facilities at the Cimarron Center. For more information visit our website: https://scgcouplesputtingclub.weebly.com GOLF—MEN’S NINE HOLE GOLF CLUB

The Men's Nine Hole Golf Club is composed of fun loving, supportive golfers of all skill levels who enjoy the game of golf. If you love the game, but 18 holes is too much, this club is for you. Due to the current Covid pandemic, we play every Monday with tee times starting at 12:30 p.m and 3:00 p.m. We provide free range balls upon checking in either curbside or in the pro shops. We are still offering team games e.g. team tournaments, best ball and scrambles, plus a Club Championship and President's Cup Tournaments. Come enjoy the camaraderie and friendships, that are an important part of our game playing experience. Please visit our website at: mens9hole. homestead.com. Membership Director: Wayne Mercel merk5151@msn.com GOLF—MEN’S 18 HOLE GOLF CLUB

Enjoy competition and have fun. Test your golf skills and make new friends while enjoying a round of golf on our beautiful community golf courses. The SCG Men’s 18 - Hole Golf Club welcomes resident golfers to join our club and compete for bragging rights and prize money in weekly tournaments .We play our tournaments on Wednesdays under USGA Rules of Golf and use the USGA’s Golf Handicap Information Network ( GHIN ) for tracking handicaps .Participants are flighted based on handicap and generally play with other golfers of similar ability. Our season starts the first week of November and runs through

September. Membership information/ applications can be obtained in the Granite Falls Pro Shop or by visiting our website at www.scgmgc.com.The 2021 Membership Chairman is Tom Jones. The club currently has over 400 members and we invite you to join our roster. GRAND HIKERS

Grand Hikers will resume a regular schedule of hikes and will return to most of the pre-Covid hiking procedures in October 2021. The Club will offer some shorter/easier hikes for September. The September hike schedule is available on our website at www.scghikers.org where you can also learn more about the club, upcoming hikes, and tips for more enjoyment and safety in your hikes. For more information contact president@ scghikers.org or hikedirector@scghikers.org. Interested hikers are welcome at our monthly general meeting, held the first Monday of the month from October through May (no monthly meeting June through September). The October meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 4 at 3 p.m. in the Agua Fria room. LANGUAGE CLUB

The SCG Language Club would like to increase its Foreign language offerings to our residents. We currently offer Spanish, French, Italian, German, and ASL (American Sign Language). We need volunteers in any other languages, to teach our resident students. We would also like to start ZOOMING CLASSES and need volunteers to ZOOM. If you have an interest to participate come join us at the Ocotillo Building! New classes begin the first week October 2021. Current German and Italian classes meet through the summer. Email president@grandlanguageclub.com. LAWN BOWLING

We welcome all levels and ages to join us for a relaxed but competitive game. We have a stateof-the-art bowling green that is arguably the best green in the COUNTRY and it is situated just behind the tennis courts. You absolutely have to check this out and then ask about the free introductory lessons (and use of club bowls) we offer. See more information on SunCityGrand. com or go direct to our website at www. grandlawnbowling.org for starting times, contact information, pictures and much, much more or contact Brad Heldele at 206-713-2320 MAH JONGG

Mah Jongg is a game of skill, strategy, calculation, memory and involves a degree of luck. It is an excellent game to keep your brain lively. Our club offers open play Tuesday afternoons in the Hopi Room and Wednesday evenings. Email scgmahjonggclub19@cox.net for location of open play on Wednesday evenings. We will be offering lessons and we will be starting those lessons every Wednesday morning starting Oct 6th and running thru Wednesday Nov 10th. Lesson time is 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the HOPI room. Lessons are a good way to learn the game in a more relaxed setting. If you would be interested in lessons, please send us an email with name and number and we will contact you. Our email address is scgmahjonggclub19@cox.net. MUSIC CLUB

The Sun City Grand Music Club is composed of residents who share a love of music. It is dedicated to the performance of Vocal and Instrumental Music for the enjoyment of both our participants and the general public. Its activities give members performance opportunities as singers and instrumentalists, both singly and in groups. Members also participate in production, technical, and backstage activities for our shows and support the club through Board and committee functions. There’s a place for everyone! If you have an interest or need further information, please visit our website, www.scgrandmusicclub.com, or contact Marilyn Green at president@scgrandmusicclub. com or 618-839-6349. ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENT GROUP –If you play the guitar, banjo, mandolin, bass, ukulele, fiddle, conga/bongo drums, harmonica (any non-amplified, non-horn instrument), then this is the group for you. Come and play, sing and jam in a friendly and no pressure setting. We will meet the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month, at 1:30 pm, in the Cimarron Club Room. Please contact David Durham at 970-216-8279 or sonid@msn.com for more information. FREE PAPER ARTS & MEMORIES (PAM)

We are fully open. Our Club reopened on April 5, 2021 and welcomed members back in the Hopi and Pima rooms from 8:00 -2:00 pm on Mondays. We have put out our Club tools for members to utilize and have a full schedule of classes. Our Card Boutique will be open on Sept 13th . Starting in October, our card boutique will be open each Monday morning. They will be located in front of the Pima room in the Chaparral Center. Our club provides a place to learn, create and share greeting cards, paper crafting, mixed media, scrapbooks and more. If you are a resident of Grand, have a CAM card and are interested in joining our Club, email us at GrandPamPrez@gmail.com and we will assign a PAM Ambassador to meet with you on a Monday to show you around and familiarize you with our Club. We have reduced our membership dues in half, to $10.00 for 2021. PET CLUB

The Sun City Grand Pet Club is open to all residents of SCG who are pet lovers. You do not need to be a current pet owner to join. Our meetings are designed as both an informational and social interaction among members. Guest speakers talk on subjects ranging from pet health, training, rescue, pet care and community programs. Our yearly dues of $10 per member covers our yearly donations to five community pet programs. Pet Club and Dog Park forms are back on the web! The Pet Club Membership Form, Dog Park Registration Form and Dog Park Incident Report —are all available on the Sun City Grand website, www.suncitygrand.com. Dog Park applications and membership do not automatically enroll you into the Pet Club, so be sure to pick up both applications if you desire to participate in both. The Dog Park registration is free and is required in order to use the Dog Park which is available to all SCG residents.

The Association provides this publication for informational purposes only. SCG Community Association, its Board, its employees and all other entities within SCG do not guarantee, endorse, nor promote any of the products, services or individuals advertised herein and assume no responsibility or liability for the veracity of the statements made in this publication.

Information regarding advertising rates can be obtained on our website at www.suncitygrand.com/Communications/ Grand-Lifestyles-magazine, scroll down to Grand Lifestyles Advertising or by coming to the Sonoran Plaza and visiting the Activities Office. The deadline for commercial ads is the 10th of the month prior to placement.

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GRAND PHOTOS

Grand Photos: It's still steamy here in Surprise but our team at Grand Photos has assembled an amazing array of club activities for the fall. Members can choose from a dozen classes & photo shoots and multiple special interest groups for photographers using all types of cameras from smartphone (Apple & Android) to mirrorless. Stop by our studio in the Village Center, enjoy the monthly gallery displays, visit with the volunteers there and check out our well equipped studio. New members are always welcome. www.grandphotos.org/membership Grand Photo Studio-Village Center. October 5 – Tuesday 1-3pm, October 12 - Tuesday 1-3 pm TIPS FOR BETTER SMARTPHONE PICS (NON-APPLE) Your best camera is the one that is always with you. For most of us that means our smartphone. So, what's the secret to taking great pictures with your smartphone? As it turns out, there are a few of them. Come and learn about some of these tips to improve your smartphone pics. This is a two-session class. Class Limit: 15. Instructor: Gary Jann. October 12 | Tuesday | 10am – 12 pm October 18 | Monday | 10 am – 1pm INTRODUCTION TO PHOTOSHOOTS In this 2-session class we will discuss the purpose of photo shoots, what they are, how they are developed, the social fun involved, how to participate and numerous locations visited locally in Arizona and the Southwest. Session 2 will involve participation in a mentored short photo shoot. Time will be scheduled to share a variety of images with participants as a way of discovering firsthand the social and photographic benefits of photo shoots. This class offers ideal opportunities for new members, participants with smartphones, point and shoot, mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Class Limit: 15. Instructors: Richard Coles/ Brenda Cooper. October 13 | Wednesday | 6:30-8:00PM NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION Join us for dessert! New members are invited to attend an orientation event designed especially for them. Learn all that Grand Photos has to offer from members of the Board and other club leaders. You will be encouraged to share what you would like to gain from the club and learn how you can become an active member. October 14 | Thursday | 1-3PM October 21 | Thursday | 1-3PM TIPS FOR BETTER SMARTPHONE PICS (APPLE) Your best camera is the one that is always with you. For most of us that means our smartphone. So, what's the secret to taking great pictures with your smartphone? As it turns out, there are a few of them. Come and learn about some of these tips to improve your smartphone pics. This is a two-session class. Class Limit: 15. Instructor: Margaret Anne Coles October 15 – Friday 1-3 pm PHOTOGRAPHER’S GALLERY SHOWCASE AND RECEPTION What better way of getting to see what Grand Photos has to offer. Guests and SCG residents are invited to this monthly Showcase social event. Join us for light refreshments as you enjoy a multi-member photography exhibit centered on the theme, The Colors of Nature. Each image will be an artistic perception and rendering of the colors of nature with which our world is decorated. This gallery showcase will be a companion exhibit of that featuring artist Mike Smith - Monochrome – 50 Years of Black and White Photography. Free – All Are Welcome! October 19 – Tuesday 10AM -12PM RESIZING Resizing a photographic image for personal use, exhibiting or competing is often thought of as a difficult task. This class will demonstrate methods of resizing images for both digital and print use. Consideration will be given to resizing on a computer, tablet or smartphone. Class Limit: 15 Instructors: Margaret Maione and Dennis Hilgar. October 20 – Wednesday 6 am - 3 pm AUTUMN COLORS – PHOTOS SHOOT – DEAD HORSE RANCH STATE PARK AND OLD TOWN COTTONWOOD Join us for a day in the high desert at Dead Horse State Park, that lies along the fertile rich soils of the Verde River and features three large man-made ponds with excellent accessible trails weaving along a waterfront that is lined with massive shade trees. It provides a wonderful setting for reflections of turning leaves and natural pond vegetation. Later a visit to old Town Cottonwood offers different opportunities to capture photos of architectural details, historic shops, windows and features. See website for details. Photo shoot leader – Brenda Cooper Sign up at https://scgpc.wildapricot.org/ Photo-Shoots-Upcoming. For members only. Membership ($26) prior to registration. October 25 – Monday 1- 3 pm INTRODUCTION TO SPECIAL INTEREST GROUPS (SIG’S) If you haven’t attended a SIG, you may be missing a good thing. SIGs go beyond classes by delving deeper into specific areas of photographic interest. They provide an open and friendly forum where everyone can participate and share in exploring and discussing camera technique, composition, post processing and other ways to improve your images. They have an open agenda that generally includes time to share your creations with others. This orientation will describe the current SIG’s sponsored by Grand Photos, how each operates and what activities you can expect if you participate. Class Limit: 15. Instructor: Larry Lindner. October 26 – Tuesday 1-3PM PHOTOGRAPHIC PAPERS AND PRINTING Create inexpensive high-quality prints of your best photographs. A hands-on beginner's guide to understanding and selecting photographic print papers and printing on the Club's Canon Prograf Printer. Small group hands-on printing instruction will be scheduled following this class. Class Limit: 15. Instructor: Pam Careau October 27 | Wednesday | 1-3PM THROUGH THEIR EYES WEBINAR— CULTURAL PORTRAYAL A peek into how Sherry Weinstein visually documents the cultures she visits. When possible, she enjoys capturing interesting styles of dress, dwellings, work environments, houses of worship et al. This presentation focuses on visits to Asia and Europe, journeys you will not want to miss. Presenter: Sherry Weinstein. This will be a virtual Zoom presentation October 28 – Thursday 6:30 – 8PM NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION Join us for dessert! New members are invited to attend an orientation event designed especially for them. Learn all that Grand Photos has to offer from members of the Board and other club leaders. You will be encouraged to share what you would like to gain from the club and learn how you can become an active member. October 29-30 | Near Camp Verde, AZ OUT OF AFRICA - PHOTO SHOOT This is a totally unique and special opportunity for the members of Grand Photos to have exclusive access to the Wildlife Park before it opens to the public. Offering the best light with park guides to attracting animals to the best image shooting settings. Kathleen Reeder will be present and offering members tips and guidance as needed to help you to get the best possible shots of the beautiful well cared for animals including lions, tigers, rhinos, hyenas and many other species in a perfectly natural setting. There will be no other guests in the park during this session. Image improvement suggestions will be provided at the end of the shoot. See website for fees and details. Photo shoot leader – Bill Stuart. For members only. To Sign up at https://scgpc.wildapricot.org/PhotoShoots-Upcoming. For members only. Membership ($26) prior to registration For more information and to Sign up for classes go to https://grandphotos.org/Classes, unless specifically stated otherwise. GRAND PICKLEBALL CLUB

The Grand Pickleball Club is a great place to meet other fun-loving active residents, and get a great workout! There are 22 pickleball courts located at the Cimarron Center. The club offers introductory lessons and has ongoing group lessons, clinics and ball-machine drills all designed to help you learn pickleball skills. Check out the club website at www.grandpickleball. org. The website is updated regularly and includes information about how to join, daily activites and how to reserve a court. Any Sun City Grand resident can make court reservations at any time that is not set aside for club functions. Court reservations are displayed on the monitors located in the pavilion and in both breezeways. If you are unable to use your reservation, please delete your reservation so that other residents can use that time. Non-marking, court shoes are recommended. For more information check website www. grandpickleball.org. Hope to see you on the courts soon! PINOCHLE

For information call Ron 708–415–2063 or 623–399–9083 or Stuart 206–245–5142.

POKER CLUB

Come join us for various poker games. We offer Texas Hold-Em, 7 Card Stud, Omaha Hi-Low with buy in cost from $10 to $30. We offer lessons to help you learn the game for a small fee. Other addition cash games are also played. For more information on what we offer please text Paul at 206-790-7655 or email paulscgpoker@gmail.com. All residents are welcome to play. Visit our website at http://scgpoker. org for additional information.” MAY THE CHIPS BE WITH YOU!” RV CLUB

Have an RV and want to travel with a fun group of fellow Grand residents or you don't have an RV but want a fun group to socialize with at our meetings with pot lucks, pizza parties and Ice cream socials well come on over to the Grand Rv'ers next meeting, any SC Grand resident is welcome, you don't need to own an RV to become a member. Our meetings are usually the 3rd Tuesday in Oct, Nov, Jan, Feb, March and April with our Christmas party in December. Previous members who sold their RV's are encouraged to rejoin for all of our great comradery! For more info call club President Mike Dawson @ 925-727-4625 or Membership Chair Sharron Navratil @ 602-430-0820 SHALOM CLUB

The Shalom Club is welcoming new members and we invite all Sun City Grand Residents to join us! We’re a fun–loving and energetic social club with over 300 members who enjoy a variety of social, educational and cultural activities related to Judaism, although we are not a religious group. We have an annual calendar of diverse Monthly Program Meetings and our members host many fabulous Socials throughout the year. We also enjoy our partnership and periodic socials with all the West Valley Shalom Clubs. Check out our Club at www.scgshalomclub.com for the latest on events and activities. For more information, or if you would like to join us as a guest to look us over, please contact our Membership Director, Darlyne Posternack, membership@scgshalomclub.com or 847-347-8766. SINGLES CLUB

The Singles Club is an active social club in Sun City Grand. We provide a caring and supportive environment with activities that offer opportunities for members to share interests, develop friendships and enhance a great quality of life. A variety of monthly events may include Theme Dinners, Poker Night, Game Night, Crazy Bocce, Trivia or other specially arranged outings . Check our website for additional information – www.scgsingles.com. Monthly Calendar: September 8 | Wednesday | 6PM | Chaparral GAME NIGHT Bring your favorite game (scrabble, mah jongg, deck of cards and a shuffler for hand and foot, or any other game). Also bring your own soft drink. MEET IN THE PIMA ROOM AT CHAPARRAL CENTER. IMPORTANT NOTE: Game Night will be the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The location may alter slightly, so be sure to check the calendar for the room designated. September 12 | Sunday | 6PM | Cimarron | $$ BINGO NIGHT IS BACK!!! Play BINGO with your friends – win $$$CASH$$$ prizes! Relax, enjoy pizza, and a cold beverage from the Cash bar as you practice your best “Bingo” shout out. Hosted by Donna Matthews (360) 7014636 and Fred Wright (623) 414-3717. Make your reservation and pay $10 by Monday, September 6. September 15 | Wednesday 10AM-12PM | Palm Center PROSPECTIVE NEW MEMBER MEETING Get your questions answered and find out all that the Singles Club has to offer in the Phoenix Room at the Palm Center. Hosted by Scott Houston (602) 881-2529. September 16 | Thursday | 6PM | Cimarron POKER NIGHT Your reservation includes pizza and game chips. Bring your own soft drink. Prizes for the top

three winners. Beginners and guests of members are welcome. Hosted by Jan Clark (623) 810-2236 and Rick Haskell (623) 810-5068. Make your reservation and pay $10 by Monday, September 13. September 22 | Wednesday | 6PM | Cimarron GAME NIGHT Bring your favorite game (scrabble, mah jongg, deck of cards and a shuffler for hand and foot, or any other game). Also bring your own soft drink. IMPORTANT NOTE: MEET IN THE CIMARRON CLUB AT CIMARRON CENTER. September 24 | Friday | 6PM | Cimarron | $$ OKTOBERFEST! Yes, the annual Munich Oktoberfest actually, begins in September. And, we’re having our own right here. Grilled brats & beer grilled chicken, German potato salad, mixed green salad, big pretzels and more. Why not enjoy a cold beer from the Cash Bar? DJ Rick may have us doing the “Chicken Dance” or a polka to get into the spirit of an authentic beer hall! Future event reservation/sales 6:00 – 6:30 p.m. Hosted by Renee Rut (623) 266-9047 and Melanie Betts (612) 275-7799. Make your reservation and pay $20 by Monday, September 20. ** SIGN UP AND PAY FOR EVENTS ** “$$” – Reservations required. Mondays from 2:00–4:00 pm—Look for Mary Neuwenschwander or Marlene Barczynski in the alcove adjacent to the Grand Café in the Chaparral Center. YOU MUST SHOW YOUR CAM CARD TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT SOCIAL GAMES:

Consists of Cribbage, Chess, Hand & Foot and Open Games. For more information visit www. suncitygrand.com Chartered Clubs. CHESS We are a group of chess players of varying ability and would like you to join us. We play on Monday and Wednesday from 11:30 to 3:30 usually in the Agua Fria room at Cimarron (contact us for the schedule). Bring a set if you have one. Contact Marty Schulman 623/234-9279 or martin.schulman@gmail.com HAND AND FOOT We play “officially” every Tuesday at 1:00pm and Friday at 6:00pm in the PIMA room in the Chaparral Center. We draw cards for partners and play two games. You will need $4.00 in quarters and $4.00 in bills for the two games we play. If you have your own cards (6 decks) and shuffler, please bring them. We are currently playing “Progressive Hand & Foot”. For a copy of our rules or questions, please contact Joy Kreick at joykreick@gmail.com. Come and play, we’re a friendly group and try our best to be all inclusive no matter your skill level. STAMP COLLECTING

The Stamp Collector's Interest Group meets on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Pima Room in the Chaparral Center. Meetings are always open to anyone interested in collecting postage stamps, whether to learn about stamp collecting, discover the worth of an existing collection, or to donate a collection to a non-profit tax exempt foundation. Our friendly group will encourage your interest in stamps, whatever it may be. More info is available from Gene Trinks at 602-339-8243 or gctrinks@cox.net STITCHER’S

We are a mix of Fabric, Fiber and Needlework. Stitchers is made up of 7 Special Interest Groups (SIG's) 1. Beading 2. Community Service 3. Machine Embroidery 4. Needlework (Knitting,Crochet,Macrame, etc.) 5. Quilting ( Longarm machine, Caring Quilts ) 6. Sewing 7. Weaving Each month I will be describing in more detail what each SIG does. We are presently meeting in our room at the Palm Center Monday to Saturday. Each SIG meets on a specific day. Stop in and join us. We are a very active group. TABLE TENNIS CLUB

It is scorching hot out there; hence we offer a special hot summer membership of $5.00 for 4 months in June, July, August, and September. Active residents can continue their lifestyles without enduring the summer heat. This is especially great for tennis and pickle ball players because they can continue to maintain their coordination of eyes, hands, and feet; and to practice their concentration and reflex without the scorching heat. An example of these is as shown in the video of 2020 International Table Tennis Federation’s World Cup Highlights, https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=s426FUF725Y. Alternatively, players can join the club as year-end members of 5.00 for 4 months in September, October, November and December. We play in an air conditioned environment; in addition, we also play on a wooden floor, which is easier on our ankles, knees, hips, and backs. We meet in the Gila Room of the Cimarron Center every Monday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday. Please visit www.suncitygrand.com/tabletennis for details. Why are Bill Gates & Warren Buffet the world’s wealthiest persons? • Do you think that playing table tennis has something to do with it? • Dr. Amen claimed in his book that table tennis is the world’s best brain sport. • Dr. Oz claimed in his TV show that Ping Pong can keep the brain young. Join the fun | First 3 times as a guest | $15.00 annual membership dues • Instructions are provided by tournament players. • The robot will be available for novices & advanced players after the pandemic. • All levels of playing skill are welcome. • Join men and women who enjoy the game. • Come check with the monitor and get started. • The club has paddles & balls; wear your tennis shoes. For more information, please contact David Downs at 623-208-0116, or Apollo Chen at 623-215-7011, or visit www.suncitygrand.com/tabletennis. TENNIS CLUB

DID YOU KNOW? Playing tennis can strengthen your muscles, increase aerobic capacity, increase bone density, improve coordination, lower resting heart rates and lower body fat! The Sun City Grand Tennis Club currently boasts 369 members but we have room for more!!! Your membership of only $15.00 enables you to play in "Club Tennis", use our two balls machines to improve your game, attend Club sponsored Socials (they will return eventually!), get Club e mails directly to your inbox regarding Club activities and important information and its a great way to meet new friends and have F U N !!!!! Whether you want to get back into tennis, continue with the sport you love or are a real beginner; come check us out! Visit our web site at: suncitygrandtennisclub. wildapricot.org There you will find all kinds of information regarding the Club. E mail Sally Orr at: sallyorr1972@gmail.com with questions. WISCONSIN INTEREST GROUP

Welcome back members and a special shout out to all new and prospective members. If you are interested in getting together with people who simply love life, sharing new and old memories and participating in a wide variety of events, contact us via our web site at www.wigazinfo.weebly.com. Click on the ‘Contact Us’ tab and send us a note. You can also reach us at wigmessage@gmail.com. Membership dues are $10 per person per year. You need not be from Wisconsin to join. We have members from across the country. Watch for details soon regarding monthly breakfasts at Tivoli Gardens in Surprise. On September 28, JiMichaels in Sun City will be the venue for a good ‘ol Wisconsin Fish Fry. Join the group on October 26 at Culver’s Surprise for a celebration of Wisconsin Farmers. Our Annual Meeting will be held on November 4. We will elect new Board members and look forward to your input on planned and new events. November 17 will be Polish night at I and J Fountain restaurant in Surprise. On December 8, we will once again trek to Barleen’s via our private coach and enjoy great food and their wonderful Holiday Show. Block your calendar for January 19, 2022. Our ever popular catered Holiday Dinner with Live entertainment returns. On February 10, we will enjoy your favorite appetizers combined with exciting games. March brings Spring baseball and our tailgate party and game. There may even be more surprises along the way as we finally put the last year+ behind us and expand our wings again. WOODCRAFTERS

The Woodshop, situated near the Ballpark, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on Thursday evenings 6-9 p.m. (always subject to a volunteer Monitor being on duty). The shop is equipped with all the machines and hand-tools necessary to construct furniture and cabinetry. For more information visit our website: http://www.grandwoodcrafters.com

ALASKA INTEREST GROUP

Email: grandalaskans@gmail.com. Find us on Facebook at “Grand Alaskans” Interest Group Description: The Grand Alaskans welcome all Alaskans living in Sun City Grand. If you enjoy getting together with fellow Alaskans for special events, entertainment, tours, or social hours, this is the group for you. We hold several events October through April. AMATEUR TRAP SHOOTING GROUP

Contact(s) for Interest Group: Marty Grady, 623556-9497, martygrady@hotmail.com Meeting Information: We meet the first Friday of each month at Ben Avery at 8:30 a.m. Interest Group Description: We are a group of averaged skilled trap shooters that meet at Ben Avery to shoot trap and socialize about our past sporting activities. Besides trap shooting, the members discuss other activities that foster a network of things to do, places to go, and help to provide others. BON APPETIT DINNER CIRCLE

Meeting Information: The 3rd Saturday of the month groups of 6 or 8 or 10 meet in members’ homes for dinner, November thru June. Host duties and guests alternate each month. Interest Group Description: We provide opportunities for making new friends and enjoying a meal together. The host furnishes the entrée and beverages…the guests contribute the appetizer, salad, and dessert. We have two meetings per season where everyone is invited to a potluck so we can all meet each other and visit. Many lasting friendships have been created. Contact(s) for Interest Group: Kathy, 623-266-0310. BOWLING

Interest Group Description: Grand Mixers – fun mixed league (guys and gals) Contact(s) for Interest Group: Sally Such, President, 623-975-1377 CANADIAN FRIENDS AT SCG

Interest Group Website: scgcdn.weebly.com Interest Group Description: We are a group of Canadians from coast to coast who winter in SCG from as little as a few weeks to up to 6 months. Some own homes and some rent. We meet from Oct to April for coffee, lunches or dinners. In addition we play everything from bocce / golf /billiards /bowling etc. We discuss common border crossing experiences and try to keep up to date on changes for Visitors Visas on proposed changes. We also discuss problem solving in the desert, from plumbers to landscapers. For more information see our calendar of events on our website. Come on out to one of our fun filled events and who knows you might meet a neighbor, an old co-worker or even a long lost relative from Canada! GRAND DEMOCRATS INTEREST GROUP

Interest Group Website: www.granddems.org Meeting Information: Fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in Cimarron Center. Beverages and snacks at 6:00 p.m. No meetings in July and August. Interest Group Description: We are a group that supports a Democratic presence in the community. We encourage those interested in national, state, county or local politics who are newly arrived members of the community or those who have been here awhile to come and listen to our scheduled interesting speakers. Besides our monthly meetings, we have monthly breakfasts and dinners. September 22nd 2021 | 6 PM In-Person Meeting | Adrian Fontes-Speaker Adrian Fontes is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps. His service to our country taught him the importance of dedication, discipline, and sacrifice to forcefully fight for the American dream. As County Recorder, he succeeded in rebuilding public trust in the election system in Maricopa County. On Wednesday, July 28th, Adrian testified before the US Congress to ensure the safety of election officers and voters! Adrian is now running for Secretary of State. Adrian promises, “…to stand up to voter suppression laws” and asks voters to “…join him in the fight to protect the voting rights for all Arizonans.” Join us for our “Welcome Bark Meeting” at 6:00pm in the Aqua Fria Room in Cimarron. We will celebrate our first in-person meeting in many months with cake and coffee. All members, guests, and interested parties are welcome! FOUR WHEELING

Interest Group Website: www.grand4wheelers.org Interest Group Description: The Grand 4-Wheelers are SCG residents who are interested in taking rides off-road into the beautiful areas of Arizona not accessible by standard vehicle. The roads we travel range from “easy” to “moderate” to “difficult.” The rides are for all types of four wheel drive vehicles (No ATV’s that’s another group). Our rides will allow you to see remote areas of Arizona in the safe environment of a group activity. We provide an environment to learn the off-road capabilities of our vehicles, off-road driving techniques, the use of GPS devices & maps, and available recovery tools. Please refer to our website to see a calendar of future rides, as well as photos and narratives of our previous rides. FUN DINERS

Interest Group Description: We are a social group that plans monthly events at restaurants in our area. Just $10.00 per member per year to join. Guests are welcome! Contact for Interest Group: Toni Helgeson, membership, 623-544-5988 www.fundiners.weebly.com Meeting Information: We send a notice to all of our members throughout the year advising them of our planned activities, either a lunch, dinner, or a happy hour, and we request that they sign up for the event! There is always a gala event for Christmas! Lunches and dinners will be prepaid but you will be on your own for cocktails and of course for any Happy Hours! You may attend as many or as few events as you like. You are able to bring guests, unless we have limited seating! Always check our website, www.fundiners.weebly.com, for forthcoming events and pictures of our past ones! We welcome volunteers to help find new places and to help coordinate events at their favorite restaurants. The annual dues are $10 per person each year. You may call Gerri at 623-374-7917 or Toni at 623544-5988 for more information.

GRAND CONNECTION INTEREST GROUP

The Grand Connection Social Group welcomes all who have an interest in the African-American experience and want to learn more about their traditions and heritage". At this time due to the Corona Pandemic there are no activities planned. For additional information regarding the Interest Group Contact: Betty Shelton 623 910-0015 or Pat Burnette 650 346-7727.

HORSESHOES INTEREST GROUP

Are you kidding me? We don’t have Horseshoes here? Yup…WE DO! We play at 8 AM every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and we always need more Lady and Men pitchers so come join us by the Baseball Field. Just “show up” at the 5 pits beside the Del Webb Ballpark on W. Mountain View Blvd, just west of N. Goldwater Ridge Dr. IOWA INTEREST GROUP

Meeting Information: The current SCG COVID regulations for Interest Groups make it impossible to meet and continue the group activities we currently enjoy. Therefore, the decision has been made to suspend the Iowa Interest Group until at least the first of the year. We have requested dates for events in the spring the hopes that we will be able to resume activities. We will contact you by email if plans change. Interest Group Description: The Iowa Interest Group was established as a social group to allow all people with an Iowa connection to gather. It provides the opportunity for people to meet with current friends, create new friendships and possibly find old friends or acquaintances. The warmth and generosity of Iowa is seen in the people attending. Contact Ginger Pollock. jrpollock47@gmail.com; 623-512-3637.

LGBTQ INTEREST GROUP

Contact(s) for Interest Group: scg.lgbt@yahoo.com Interest Group Website: scglgbt.com Interest Group Social Media: https://www.facebook. com/scglgbt Meeting Information: Meet formally 4 times a year and informally in-between. Interest Group Description: The SCG LGBTQ Interest Group invites residents to join us for a variety of social activities including dining out, theater, concerts, sporting events, etc. We are about making new friends, socializing and supporting one another. Residents and allies who are looking to connect with other like-minded members of our community are welcome to join.

MINNESOTA INTEREST GROUP

Contact(s) for Interest Group: Phyllis Borchardt, 623-521-0790, grandmn2016@yahoo.com Interest Group Description: Born in the North Star State/fall in love with L'toile du nord while living there? Currently a part time resident of Minnesota and/or live full time in Sun City Grand? Our Minnesota Interest Group welcomes your participation in our social events, nature walk/potluck events, putting contests, wine tastings, casino parties, theater/dinner parties. Whether you call Sun City Grand your full time or part time residence we would be pleased to have your input regarding offerings that you would find of interest and welcome your participation.

POLISH-AMERICAN INTEREST GROUP

Contact(s) for Interest Group: Dorothy (Rzeszutek) Higdon, 623-533-6611, odette46@cox.net Meeting Information: Meetings are scheduled periodically during the year to correspond with new matters of significance and availability of speakers, at which time an e-mail is sent to all members. Notification is also sent regarding any known Polish-American activity in the Phoenix area. Interest Group Description: Sharing of Traditions, Customs, Travel, Delicacies, and History. Socializing while receiving cultural enlightenment concerning holidays and also cuisine with regards to Catholic, Jewish and non-denominational citizens. Enjoy the long-established foods of Poland through planned luncheons and tours of Polish-American restaurants, bakeries and delis in the Phoenix area. Translation is also available through Maya Zubriski, mariazubriski@gmail. com, 623-546-6960

GRAND CENTRAL RAILROAD INTEREST GROUP

If you enjoy large scale (G Scale) outdoor model trains, the Grand Central Railroad Interest Group is the place for you. From operating trains, painting buildings, decorating and landscaping, track maintenance, electrical service and repair, to public relations and more…. there is literally something for everyone. While most members own and operate their own trains, it is not a requirement to join the group. Our primary function is operating and maintaining the Model Railroad Park for the enjoyment of our members, residents and visitors, young and old alike. The Railroad Park is located near the tennis courts behind the Chaparral Center. Trains run on a regular schedule as posted at the Railroad Park and on our website (GrandCentralRailroad. info). Please stop by during operating hours and introduce yourself. We will be happy to show you around and tell you more about what we do. For additional information or to make special requests, please contact chairman@GrandCentralRailroad. info GRAND REPUBLICANS INTEREST GROUP

Our July meeting at Church on the Green was well attended with over 150 members and guests. Our guest speaker was Patrick J. Connell. He was Born in Ireland and came to America at an early age, being adopted by an American family. He led a storied life which included an enlistment in the Marine Corps. His speech was well received and a lively Q&A followed. Our September speaker is Hugh Hallman, and his son Louis. He was Mayor of Tempe from 2004 till 2012. He also founded Hallman and Associates, a legal firm in 1999. He has led a very interesting life so be sure to attend our September 18th meeting at the Church on the Green starting at 9:00 am for coffee and donuts. As republicans we are committed to promoting the principles, objectives and ideals of the Republican Party on the local state and federal levels. Our President, Sally Cotten, can be reached at 480-5898049. Our Board members can also be reached by e-mail. Their addresses are on our web site, https// scgop.weebly.com. Also on our web site is information regarding special events, current group information, current monthly meeting information, along with recent information regarding Sun City Grand and Surprise. So if you have any questions about us, our goals or anything else, please let us know. We look forward to seeing you at our September meeting. You can never tell but we might be the organization you are looking for. So join us for coffee and donuts, lively speakers and interesting discussions. Be sure to review each issue of the Grand Lifestyle Magazine for up-to-date information on the Sun City Grand Republican SIG as well as interesting topics regarding life here in Sun City Grand SOUND & LIGHTING VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO KEEP THE GRAND’S ENTERTAINMENT “BEST IN CLASS”

The Sun City Grand Music Club and Drama and Comedy Club justifiably receive accolades for the many fine musical, dramatic and comedy shows that they bring to our stages each year. But it’s true for any live entertainment venue – the shows are only as good as the sound and lighting teams make them. We are currently looking for residents who want to practice their existing skills or learn new ones for the upcoming season starting in the Fall 2021. And the best part is absolutely no prior experience or knowledge is required. We will train anyone who is interested in learning the lighting and sound systems. With the many performances we are planning well into 2022, and the different roles each require, there will be much need for more trained technical people. This is a great way to learn some new skills and become a member of the Grand’s entertainment team. If you have ever wanted to be a part of Live Theater, this is your opportunity. Now that we are returning to a full schedule of performances, the need is even greater for more people to join our lighting and sound teams. For more information, contact Larry Dirksen – 623-363-5040 (Sound); or Bob Nix – 623-2148280 (Lighting) WASHINGTON STATE

Contact(s) for Interest Group: Susan Brinkley, 206276-2080, susanbrinkley7@gmail.com Meeting Information: Notification of events are sent via email to individuals who sign up on the roster. Events will be included in the Grand Lifestyles publication and will be posted on the community bulletin boards at the Cimarron Center and Sonoran Plaza. Interest Group Description: The Washington State Group provides opportunities for interested Washingtonians to get acquainted and enjoy common interests. Events have included socials, golf tournaments, hiking, and attendance at Spring Training Mariner games. Volunteering is critical to keeping this interest group vibrant. Ideas for future events are always welcome. WINE TASTING

Interest Group Description: The group conducts tastings on wines, grapes and countries of the world. There is an introductory educational preview of the topic, followed by the wine tasting done in an informal atmosphere. Light foods and finger desserts are available. Members have the opportunity to learn about wine and find new varietals to enjoy. They also meet and befriend fellow wine enthusiasts. Meeting Information: We meet on the second Tuesday of each month except July and August at 7:00PM at the home of a host member. Annual dues are $10 per person and the tasing fee is $15 per person. We also have an annua Wine dinner, catered by Chefs Tell All (the original owners of Amuse Bouche) and held at the Unitarian Universalist Church in Surprise. Contact for the Wine Interest Group: Judy Helderman, 623-322-9425, jhelderm@yahoo WISCONSIN INTEREST GROUP

We are fast approaching a ‘new’ year for the Wisconsin Interest Group. Starting In September, we plan on Renewing monthly breakfasts. We will dine at Tivoli Gardens in Sun City West. Watch for details via our web site and emails. On September 28, we will initiate a new event. A Wisconsin Walleye Fish Fry at JiMichaels in Sun City . On October 26th we will celebrate Wisconsin Farmers pride and history at Culver’s in Surprise. Our Annual Meeting will be held on November 4. November 17 brings another new event--A savory Polish Dinner at I&J Fountain Restaurant in Surprise. Our annual trip to Barleen’s and their wonderful Holiday show and dinner will be on December 8. Get ready for our Annual Holiday catered dinner with entertainment on January 19, 2022. February 10 brings the ever popular Game Night and delicious Wisconsin dishes. March will bring a Tailgate party and Brewer game. Don’t forget weekly Sheepshead games. Visit our web site www. wigazinfo.weebly.com to remain current on all events. We can also be reached at wigmessage@gmail.com.

SEPTEMBER NEWS

Aly Cline

Council Member

NEIGHBORHOOD GRANT PROGRAM

Surprise City Council approved funding to support the Neighborhood Grant Program, providing eligible neighborhoods with small grants to fund neighborhood events, functions, or community improvements. Recognizing an opportunity to encourage community Neighborhood Grant Program engagement and build strong Surprise City Council approved funding to support the Neighborhood Grant Program, providing relationships with communities in Surprise, the city designated $10,000 to support the grant eligible neighborhoods with small grants to fund neighborhood events, functions, or community improvements. Recognizing an opportunity to encourage community engagement and build program for FY22. For more strong relationships with communities in Surprise, the city designated $10,000 to support the information about the grant, grant program for FY22. For more information about the grant, visit surpriseaz.gov/NGP visit surpriseaz.gov/NGP RIDECHOICE TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM RideChoice Transportation Program Valley Metro’s RideChoice program, which offers discounted transportation options for eligible riders, has been expanded to allow more access for Surprise residents. All veterans with proof of eligibility will now qualify, and the FY2021 Income Limit Category has been changed to Low (80%) Income Limits – this is up from Very Low (50%). Persons age 65 and over and people with disabilities still automatically qualify for this program. To check for program eligibility or Valley Metro’s RideChoice recieve assistance filling out an application, call the city’s program, which offers discounted transportation Human Service & Community Vitality Department Neighborhood Services Division at 623.222.1550. options for eligible riders, has

Ready, Set, Go!

been expanded to allow more access for Surprise residents. All veterans with proof of eligibility will now qualify, and the FY2021 Income Limit Category has been changed to Low (80%) Income Limits – this is up from Very Low (50%). Persons age 65 and over and people with disabilities still automatically qualify for this program. To check for program eligibility or recieve assistance filling out an application, call the city’s Human Service & Community Vitality Department Neighborhood Services Division at 623.222.1550. READY, SET, GO! Are you prepared to evacuate if necessary? It’s always a good time to be reminded of “Ready, Set, Go!” a program designed to help keep you safe from seasonal threats. Take some time to read about emergency preparedness and the 5 P’s of Evacuation. Learn more at https://ein.az.gov/ready-set-go OTTAWA UNIVERSITY MEET AND GREET On Wednesday, July 28, the city hosted a meet and greet with the new President and CEO of Ottawa University system-wide for residential campuses and adult learning sites nationwide. Dr. William Tsutsui received an incredibly warm welcome from Mayor Skip Hall, myself, and the city of Surprise. MONTHLY MEET & GREET My monthly Meet and Greet will be on Monday, September 27 in Sun City Grand’s Pima Room at 6 p.m. I look forward to discussing the latest city news and answering any questions you have. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me anytime at aly.cline@surpriseaz.gov or by calling 623.222.1322.

Q: Surprise is a growing city. What are we doing to grow our police department?

A: We have our community members to thank for attracting the highest quality candidates out there because we have incredible support from our community. Before any police officer candidate gets hired to go to the academy or take a lateral from another agency, they have to meet with and be interviewed by the police chief and command staff. We deliberately ask questions and interact in a way that ensures us that not only is this person minimally qualified, but is the right person to wear the Surprise police uniform and work amongst a fantastic team.

Q: What do you do to attract people to Surprise Police Department?

A: Surprise has a reputation in the community already. They know that coming here, they are coming to work for a place where the community, the bosses, and the council offer the support they need to do their job

Q & A WITH SURPRISE POLICE CHIEF BENNY PIÑA effectively. Every family in our community has or knows someone that Surprise PD wants, so we have to find people through the word of mouth and referrals from our employees.

Q: What would you like the community to know about you?

A: I have been a police officer for 32 years. I took over the role of Surprise police chief in July 2021 and previously served as the deputy police chief in Peoria since 2014. Before that appointment, I served 25 years with the Phoenix Police Department rising through the ranks to the position of police commander. I have worked in patrol, investigations, special operations, SWAT, K-9, street and violent crime, crisis intervention, school resources, and training. I earned a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Arizona State University, and I am a graduate of the Senior Management Institute for Policing.