• • • • • • •
$395,000 2840 sf
12948 W. Panchita Dr., mirAdA w/CAsitA
• • • •
$310,000 2726 sf 23111 N. Sol Mar Ct., AlAmedA
Contents
What’s Inside January 2014
15
ASSOCIATION 6 8 10 11 12 13 14 16
Numbers to Know From the Editor’s Desk / In the Loop Board Talk: From a Great 2013 to All the Best in 2014 Farewell / Kudos Korner Welcome Our New GM / Thoughts from ARC Technology Committee Formed Upcoming Events More Corte Bella Events
18 19
Event Recaps Not Even a Crumb Remained
20 20 21
Ask Agnes: Old School Cleaners Reinstituting Smile-Stone / Wild Horse Pass Casino Builder of Confidence / One Woman Art Show
22 23
Wine Time It’s All in the Cards
24 25
Pickleball News / Golf Cart Safety Casual Golf Outside the Gate
27 27
Quick-hitting Tech Tips for Health Wanted: Tech Committee Volunteers
28 29 30
Where Did You Come From? A World of Friends Elvis is in the Building / Corte Bella Steppers / Genealogy Group
HOLIDAY SEASON COMMUNITY CULINARY
20
HEALTH & FITNESS
TECHNOLOGY 26 Try Using Evernote / Technology that Connects SOCIAL CLUB
30
CB Times Magazine is the official community magazine of Corte Bella, brought to you by the Corte Bella Country Club Association, Inc. and published by Lion Tree Communications.
On the Cover “[I] captured this image of a typical late afternoon along Fairway 11 — always a good time for friends and neighbors to get together to relax and enjoy the beautiful view.” Jim Laskowicz, CB Times Contributing Photographer Member, Chicago Digital Photography Club
4 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Editor | David Jolovitz Contributing Writers | Janice Aiken | Bill Blake | Cindy Buda Pat Burke | John Eakins | Lynda Erickson | John Friesner Ronald E. Gray Hilda Furkert | Evie Hansen | Sam Himes Celeste Nelson | Ed Purfield | Bob Rosenberg | Stan Sacha Regina Shanney-Saborsky | Jim Williams Photography | Mike Biggs For advertising opportunities, please contact Barb Spitzock at 480.266.5034, or email: Barb@LionTreeCommunications.com. Reproduction in whole or in part of any text, photographs or illustrations without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. Trademarks, logos and content provided by advertisers, sponsors and partners are owned by the respective companies and all rights are reserved by them. The views, statements, and claims of advertisers or other CB Times contributors do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, Corte Bella Country Club Association, Inc. or its employees. Printed in the USA. ©2014 CB Times Magazine. All rights reserved. Please recycle.
Community Education In Your Backyard
January Events Three-part Series: Wednesdays, Jan. 8, Jan. 15 & Jan. 22; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • AARP Finances 50+ Class In this three-part class, AARP volunteer Linda Vitale will cover topics such as ways to make ends meet, methods for reducing debt, safeguarding your identity, examining what’s in your credit report and how to thwart scammers from stealing your money. A free workbook will be provided to class participants. First two classes (Jan. 8 & 15) Grandview Terrace, Santa Fe Dining Room, 14515 W. Granite Valley Drive, Sun City West Final class (Jan. 22) Grandview Care Center, Bldg. B, 14505 W. Granite Valley Drive, Sun City West
REGISTER TODAY
Thursday, Jan. 16; 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Snoring and Sleep Apnea: A New Treatment for CPAP Intolerance Snoring and sleep apnea are associated with excessive daytime tiredness, fatigue and lack of concentration, but can have more significant implications on your overall health. Traditional treatment consists of a CPAP mask, which may be difficult for people to tolerate. Now, some insurance companies are allowing an alternative treatment with an oral appliance, which can significantly improve your health and quality of life. Devin Croft, DDS, will provide the details. PORA Headquarters, 13815 Camino del Sol, Sun City West Friday, Jan. 31, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. • Vial of Life/File of Life Learn more about two new Sun Health tools providing enhanced access to vital medical information during an emergency. At the end of the presentation, all guests will receive a free “Vial” and “File” of Life. R.H. Johnson Recreation Center, Lecture Hall 19803 N. R. H. Johnson Blvd, Sun City West
Registration is required. To reserve your space, please call (623) 455-5626 or register online at www.sunhealth.org and click Community Education. Events with fewer than 10 reservations are subject to cancellation. We make every effort to avoid cancellations. If one does occur, we will contact you in advance of the event.
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January 2014 | CB Times | 5
ASSOCIATION Board of Directors
Community Resources
Corte Bella Administration
Jim Williams President SCP Task Force cortebellajim@cox.net
Guard House, 623-544-3906 Fax: 623-544-3911 Email: securitas@cortebellacca.com Gate Hours: 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 P.M. Daily Roving Patrol: Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M. to Noon, and 10:00 P.M. to 11:30 P.M. Saturday — Sunday, 2:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M., and 10:00 P.M. to Midnight Patrol Cell: 623-256-2907
Association Office 22155 North Mission Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 A.M.-4 P.M. 623-328-5068
Anacapa Restaurant, 623-455-9045 Hours: Lunch: 11 A.M. - 3 P.M. Tuesday – Saturday Dinner: 4:30 - 8:00 P.M. Tuesday – Saturday Sunday Buffet: 8:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. Closed Mondays
David Jolovitz, Spa & Fitness Mgr. Editor, CB Times, Ext. 225 djolovitz@cortebellacca.com
Bob Rosenberg Vice President Communications Liaison rlrose27@hotmail.com Walt Kearns Treasurer SCP Task Force Finance Committee Liaison walt@wekearns.com Regina Shanney-Saborsky Secretary Chair Architectural Review Committee, Corporate Records Liaison & Government Affairs Committee Liaison rsaborsky@cox.net Bob Moberly Director Anacapa Restaurant Liaison JBMoberly@cox.net Bill Blake Director Neighborhood Awareness and Safety Committee Liaison WillieB38@cox.net
Corte Bella Website Community Website: www.cortebella.net Residents & Visitor Registration: www.cortebella.org CB Events Group Volunteers CBEventsGroup@cortebellacca.com
FirstService 24-HOUR EMERGENCY 602-336-2700
Photo by Dan Hammel
Larry Leighton Director Buildings & Grounds Committee Liaison, Golf Club Liaison ldleighton@yahoo.com
Fitness Center, 623-217-2018 Hours: Monday-Friday, 5 A.M.-9:30 P.M.* Sat & Sun, 6 A.M.-9:30 P.M. *Close at 9:30 PM on all days – until September 2, 2013. Children’s Pool Hours 10 A.M.-1 P.M. & 5-7 P.M. Day Spa, 623-217-2018 8 A.M. to 7 P.M., By Appointment
6 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Lynda Erickson, CAAM®, PCAM® HOA General Mgr. lynda.erickson@fsresidential.com
Fred Hernandez, Food & Beverage Mgr. Ext. 233 fhernandez@cortebellacca.com Dan Haywood, Anacapa Executive Chef, Ext. 232 dhaywood@cortebellacca.com Heather Chavez, Administrative Supervisor, Ext. 222 Valerie Brachulis, Administrative Assistant, Ext. 221
ASSOCIATION
From the Editor’s Desk After a colorful 365 days, the book has closed on 2013; it was a year marked by the forward progress of so many residents, volunteers, and staff here at Corte Bella. And, there was nothing more impressive, one could argue, than the events occurring this past December, the year’s final month. David Jolovitz, Editor
With my office located in the heart of the Fitness Center, I was witness to a month-long flurry of philanthropy that was steady and unrelenting. The Fitness Center lobby appeared to be “snowed in” by a siege of presents during most of December; a space more than happy to be occupied by an army of gifts laid under a Christmas tree and near a proudly lit menorah.
In the Loop I monitor the Discussion Group on the Association’s website, cortebella.net, for topics that might be of interest to the people of the community, and have noticed that repair and replacement are becoming bigger topics of discussion as our houses get older, which is not a total surprise. People have asked about how to find replacements for the outdoor light bulbs — especially the one above the address number. True Value and Ace Hardware in Sun City West know what we need to replace the bulbs and other items in our houses. I’m sure they have been asked this question numerous times Bob Rosenberg, Vice President, Board of Directors over the years because all you have to do is say, “Corte Bella… light bulb…. please,” and they’ll point. If we were a larger community they would probably assign an entire aisle to our community. Recently my double car garage door would not go up more than three feet. Being the eternal pessimist and anticipating a major repair, I called a garage door repair company referred by my wife’s friend and located on the PORA web site. The repairman said the problem was the spring needed adjustment. He checked the gears for both the single and double doors, lubricated both doors, and $59 later the doors were back in working order. He
8 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Although the true significance of the daily miracles taking place in December could never be properly weighed or measured, we’ve attempted to sum them up with some quick-hitting bullets: •
The San Ramon Red Kettle Drive drew in over $4,000 … in just four hours.
•
In almost an equal amount of time, SOuL’s Holiday Boutique and Charity Bake Sale almost matched that of San Ramon.
•
98 “wish list” tickets were removed from the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree and replaced with a blizzard of Secret Santa gifts.
•
Dozens more unwrapped presents were donated to the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program.
Throughout December, I viewed the shock on the faces of guests and prospective homeowners, who appeared disarmed, in disbelief, and as though they had just stumbled onto the set of a Toys “R” Us commercial or a WalMart loading dock. Read more about these wonderful events and other pertinent Corte Bella news items later in this issue... good reading!
recommended that I have the door serviced every two years going forward. I asked him to approximate what the double door weighs and he said about 300 pounds. This door has the same 1/3 horse power motor as the single door, which makes relatively little sense. Another homeowner who replaced the opener went to ½ horse power. The gist of the story is having your garage door serviced and checked if you haven’t done it yet. I had to lift the door to get out of the garage and my life passed before my eyes, which definitely wasn’t a pretty sight. If you have problems with your faucets call the Moen Company and they will send replacements, usually free of charge since they are under warranty. If you have problems with your windows, good luck. Apparently, the company who is supposed to warranty them is not very cooperative. Go on the Corte Bella website and post the question and another resident will more than likely tell you of their experience. Have your furnace and air conditioning checked before the heating and cooling season starts. If you want to make friends with the HVAC repairman, ask him to go up into your attic in the middle of July to check your unit. And lastly, if you have any suggestions for future columns or comments please let me know and I’ll try and accommodate your request. I wouldn’t be averse to you commenting on my column, but we writers are a sensitive bunch, so please be gentle in your criticism. I can be reached at RLRose27@hotmail.com.
January 2014 | CB Times | 9
ASSOCIATION
Board Talk:
From a Great 2013 to All the Best in 2014! The Holidays are over and so is 2013. Please join me in reflecting on the past year, and in looking forward to the best of a New Year for our families and our Corte Bella Community. First, a heartfelt thank you to the community for making 2013 a magnificent year — a year to build on. The majority Jim Williams, President, Corte Bella Country Club of you have provided steady encouragement and enthusiastic support, affirming that we are on the right track in striving to make Corte Bella the best it can be. Thanks also to my fellow Directors, Committees, HOA Staff, and many additional resident volunteers. None of the progress made in 2013 could happen without you. Your accomplishments the past year have enhanced the quality of community life, improved harmony and core community values, and enhanced our amenities. 2013 was a year of many positive actions and many firsts for Corte Bella. My hope is that 2014 will continue down the same path. Consider what has happened in 2013 and/or is forecasted for 2014: In 2013 alone, a record 63 of you have stepped forward to volunteer for everything from Committees, to task groups, special projects, support of the Community Web, Corte Bella events, and more and more. It simply is amazing to me to see so many resident volunteers come together for the community, willing to use their experience, their talent and their time to help enhance and even steer Corte Bella. The newly approved Volunteer Recognition Program (VRP) was formed in May 2013. The VRP drives monthly Kudos Korner articles, an annual volunteer recognition dinner, several articles and the annual Corte Bella Times Volunteer Appreciation issue. We have together embraced the concept of a long term Strategic Community Plan (SCP). 2014 will see continued efforts to implement “Protect, Enhance and Preserve” initiatives. This is the foundation on which the SCP is built. The response to the SCP survey was the best ever in our history and portends trust in the Board and this concept. We now have a Corporate Records Policy in process, which defines the use of, storage and archive requirements for all Association records and media types. Budget, Procurement and Election Policies were also updated in 2013.
The Finance Committee (FC) and Treasurer earn high marks for their professionalism and diligence. Their meticulous attention to our monies has provided Corte Bella a well-defined financial basis for current and future community needs. Their vision, investigations, and recommendations have fostered sorely needed planning to meet long term painting, granite, landscaping and street repair and maintenance needs. The Preventive Maintenance Committee evolved to the Buildings and Ground Committee. This Committee has also established a well-earned reputation of diligence and professional engineering and financial review of several projects including the 2013/2014 Community Lanai, 2013 Bocce Court renovation, and 2014 Social Building storage expansion. This group exemplifies the phrase “due diligence”. The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is comprised of a conscientious group that listens closely to residents. They reviewed hundreds of applications for home changes ranging from new casitas and solar panels to landscape/hardscape revisions for approval and compliance. Using several years of applications and direct resident input, the ARC recently updated the Design Guidelines and expanded the Plant & Tree List. This Committee also reorganized in 2013 to use additional volunteers to help with in-progress and completion inspections. Several initiatives defined by Neighborhood Awareness and Safety Committee (NASC) have improved safety and security within Corte Bella and reduced security related costs by some 20 percent. Their close relationship with Securitas and the Sheriff’s Department has paid safety, security and financial dividends (e.g., reimbursement of gate damage). The Board provided our management company (First Service Residential, or FSR) a Review Report reflecting Board, Committee and Community concerns. FSR, in an impressive example of teaming and professionalism, is working closely with us to improve our business relationship, and more importantly improve Management of the Community on behalf of the residents. The newly formed (late 2013) Government Affairs Committee (GAC) – is busy networking and setting the groundwork to tackle a number of your concerns in 2014. They and the Board plan to address the wastewater-water rates; the Peoria school tax, local transportation and roadway impacts, zoning changes and new adjacent construction, real estate property values and more. The GAC also plans to establish meetings with similar committees in local communities to “share the wealth of knowledge and experience”. More volunteers will likely be needed to help on special assignments. Continued, next page.
10 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Farewell
They say, “Change is good.”
As some of you may have heard by now, I will be leaving Corte Bella by the end of January, 2014. The two years that I have been here as your General Manager have been very productive and rewarding — and have gone by in a flash! Lynda Erickson, General Manager, CAAM®, PCAM®
Having been in an executive level position for many years was extremely rewarding and fulfilling; returning to on-site management was also rewarding and fulfilling but, it is time that I move on to greater things. I have enjoyed my time at Corte Bella, it is a beautiful community and you should be very proud of where you live. I have met so many wonderful people at Corte Bella; I will also miss my fellow team members at Corte Bella — they are among the most wonderful and hard working team that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I wish everyone at Corte Bella all the best.
Board Talk: Continued The Technology Committee charter was approved last month, and the Committee is being formed as we speak. The promise for 2014 is a technical synergy with all facets of Corte Bella to ensure technology impacts are defined and addressed. A number of such issues will be addressed, including an assessment of current capabilities and assets, an enhanced Social Hall (and Anacapa) wireless Audio-Visual system with online streaming, to support HOA meetings, entertainment, Anacapa events and business needs. Corte Bella’s Events Group Volunteers have built on a solid foundation of past experiences, and with a large group of fresh volunteers have surpassed even our highest expectations on the breadth and variety of entertainment, information, and market events. All of the events you have enjoyed in past years have been continued, and many new events have been added. Several residents remarked, “It is refreshing to see so many new faces participating in our community events.” A “Welcome Wagon” group has been formed and is working with the Communications Liaison, HOA and PORA to improve how we welcome new residents. The Liaison is also looking to form a Communications Committee or in lieu of that, a Communications group to further integrate HOA, FSR Connect, and magazine, web and technology areas. 2014 will also see the installation of a liquor security gate, providing increased availability of resident interest group meeting space (on Sunday and Monday), and potentially improving
Anacapa revenue by giving access to Social Hall rooms for select business clients during the week late afternoon/early evening rooms in the Social Hall. Planning for the Anacapa and Social Building renovation is in progress. Funding is in place for complete carpet replacement, all new furniture in the Anacapa and Laguana room, floor tile repair, multiple décor enhancements including paint, lighting, and bathroom fixtures, and new kitchen equipment. Anacapa Managers have obtained design proposals, information and cost from interior design firms, evaluation advice from a resident designer, and several planning meetings with Directors and HOA. We anticipate a contract award in January or February, with the bulk of the multi-phase renovation occurring in August. The Board faces significant challenges during 2014 to meet Fiduciary responsibilities, and fulfill its goal of Preserving, Enhancing and Protecting Association assets. There are significant increased costs forecasted on three multi-year maintenance/repair plans including streets, landscaping and gravel, and painting. It is a daunting task and requires careful attention from the Board, Committees and FSR to insure budget and funding streams are in place for long-term viability of these assets. The Board is looking forward to fulfilling your expectations in 2014 and continuing the reputation of Corte Bella as the jewel of the West Valley and a great place to live. Thanks again for your support, and I wish everyone a Healthy and Happy New Year.
Kudos Korner CB Times Editorial Staff A sincere “Thank You” goes out to Stan Sacha who has volunteered for the new Technology Committee (for more on the committee, flip to page 13.)
January 2014 | CB Times | 11
ASSOCIATION
Welcome Our New GM On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to Corte Bella’s new General Manager (GM), Michael David Arrington. Mike is a military veteran followed by ten years working on the nation’s Space Shuttle launch team. The last 20 years he has served in a variety of Arizona Community Association Management positions.
Mike has experience in all facets of community management, at all levels, which has helped him develop a keen understanding of the customers’ needs and expectations. Mike is a family man and enjoys golf and sailing the family boat anchored in San Diego when he can get away. Mike (pictured, left) said recently, “I am extremely proud and pleased to now be serving the people of such an elite community as Corte Bella, and look forward to this exceptional opportunity to contribute to its success.”
Jim Williams, President, Corte Bella Country Club Mike worked as a GM for the largest privately owned developer in the southwest. He also worked as an Executive Director for the largest active adult resort community company in the world. Mike has been a Division Vice President for a national community management company and brought that company presence into the Arizona market.
Please join the Board of Directors in wishing Mike continued success and all the best in 2014.
Thoughts from ARC “The owner or future owners of a property onto which a renewable energy system is installed assumes all risk with diminished performance of said system caused by any present or future adjacent structure or landscaping that may interfere with the system’s ability to produce power at its rated capacity, regardless of when that adjacent structure or landscaping is constructed or installed.”
Architectural Review Committee (ARC) This month’s thought: all about solar panels. The law surrounding solar panel installation is quite clear here in Arizona but even the clearest of statutes can be confusing when applied to your residence or that of a neighbor. So, here’s a quick refresher on solar rights and responsibilities in an Association context, such as Corte Bella. In Arizona, there is a specific law that states that an Association cannot prohibit an owner from installing or using a solar energy device as defined under the statutes. Additionally, while reasonable rules regarding the placement of a solar device may be implemented, such rules cannot inhibit the installation or repair of a device, nor negatively impact its efficiency. The Corte Bella Homeowners Association has chosen not to implement any rules regarding solar devices, and thus, ARC does a “quick sign-off” for all solar projects. Simple? Well, yes and no. While the statute clearly states that an Association cannot prohibit or impede utilization of a solar device… it stops at that point. The statute does not have any provision, express or implied, which would require that the Association ensure that neighboring properties are maintained in such a manner so that properties with solar devices are guaranteed the passage of light and air. In fact, Maricopa County Zoning Ordinance, Article 1206.5 Access to Sunlight and Wind states:
In addition, our own governing documents (specifically section 4.13 of the Declaration) specifically states that: “[N]either the Declarant Parties nor the Association guarantees or represents that any view or passage of light and air over and across any property, including any Lot, from adjacent Lots will be preserved without impairment… any express or implied easement for view purposes or for the passage of light and air are hereby expressly disclaimed.” ARC has had inquiries from residents concerned with neighboring trees which may grow to overshadow solar panels and negatively impact their efficiency. However, this is a neighbor-to-neighbor issue and not an area which falls under the responsibility of the Association. In a case such as this, please don’t ask ARC or the HOA to take action against one neighbor to insure access to air and light for another neighbor. There is nothing in the statute or our governing document which permits that type of interference in the lives of our residents. If you have any questions, suggestions or thoughts for ARC — regarding this issue or any other — please send us an inquiry at Communication@cortebellacca.com.
12 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Technology Committee Formed Stan Sacha & Jim Williams While we progress with the Strategic Community Plan (SCP) and other initiatives, the Board believes there is also a need for a Technology Committee to give advice, help sort out technologyrelated issues and proposals, and look at a technology strategy. There is a wealth of technical knowledge and experience within our community that could support Corte Bella technology requirements. The Board agreed to the need for a standing Technology Committee, and approved the Technology Committee Resolution and Committee Charter at the 10 December Board meeting (both of these documents can be found on the community website in the resource center under Board Matters). The purpose of the Committee as stated in the Charter includes: •
Establish and maintain a technology inventory of the Corte Bella Country Club Association (CBCCA).
•
Establish and maintain a Strategic Technology Plan for the CBCCA.
•
Appraise technologyrelated projects and technology architecture decisions.
•
Ensure that technology projects support and are aligned with the community’s vision, objectives and strategies.
•
Advise the Board of Directors and its committees on technology-related matters and provide best practices.
This Committee will be an asset to the community. See elsewhere in this issue the Help Wanted request for Committee volunteers. Please provide any comments to the HOA Office.
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Dr. Matt Harmon invites you to become a part of The Village Dental Center family of patients. We utilize the latest advances in dental technology and are dedicated to excellence in patient care. Our entire team is committed to working with you to keep your teeth strong and healthy. It takes “The Village” to keep your mouth healthy! Now welcoming new patients and offering convenient payment options: VISA, MasterCard, Discover, AMEX and Care Credit. A Delta Dental provider.
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January 2014 | CB Times | 13
ASSOCIATION
Upcoming Events Farmer’s Market
Wednesday, January 8 / 10:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Anacapa Breezeway Shop the freshest breads, meats, and produce the Valley has to offer. Also on sale are handmade items, and back by demand is the knife sharpening vendor. Future Farmer’s Market dates include February 12, March 12, and April 9.
Line Dancing Series 1 & 2: (finished) Series 3: Jan 7, 14, 21, 28; Feb. 4, 11 Series 4: Feb. 18, 25; March 4, 11, 18, 25 Series of 6 classes for $15 or $3.00 per class. Class size limited to 25, but walk-ins welcome. Series 4 tickets on sale Sun., Jan. 5 at 10:00 A.M. in Fitness Center.
Shredding Event
Wednesday, January 22 9:00 A.M to Noon Fitness Center Parking Lot $5.00/voucher* Voucher(s) required (Vouchers on sale Sunday, December 15 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center) *A $5 voucher will allow you to shred the equivalent of one Banker’s box 16” x 13” x 12” OR 3 brown paper bags. Acceptable materials: paper clips, rubber bands, manila folders, hanging folders, staples, spiral notebooks, bank books, binder clips, and patient charts. Not acceptable: electronic media, CDs, DVDs, hard drives, tapes, and floppy disks.
Revisiting the Orbison Years
Sunday, January 19 / 7:00 P.M. Santa Barbara Room (Doors open at 6:45) $22 per person (Tickets on sale Sunday, December 8 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center) Your journey back in time will feature the exceptional vocal talent of Mark Barnett. Mark has been singing the songs of Roy Orbison professionally since the early ‘90s. Mark captures the Orbison style and vocal range with such classic hits as “Only the Lonely”, “Crying”, “Pretty Woman”, “In Dreams”, “Running Scared”, and other hits. Mark transforms himself with the looks, voice, and feel of the magnificent Roy Orbison. A limited menu will be available before the performance at the Anacapa Restaurant. Choices will include avocado bleu cheese salad with grilled steak or chilled jumbo shrimp, Caesar salad with grilled chicken, homemade beef chili bowl, chicken pot pie, ½-pound burger and fries, beef bourguignon, meatballs and linguine, pulled pork on brioche, and basket of fries or homemade chips.
Super Bowl Party
Sunday, February 2 Santa Barbara Room Tickets on sale Sunday, January 5 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center Tailgating begins @ 3:45 P.M. Kickoff @ 4:30 P.M. Join us for what promises to be an exciting game on a large screen projection. If your favorite team’s not playing, join us anyway for great food and, of course, the commercials. Enjoy the game with your friends and leave the food preparation to the Anacapa staff. Think tailgate food: hamburgers, hot dogs, chili fries, and other “game watch” food. Watch for email and flyer for further details.
14 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
You’ll be taken back with classic hits including “Piano Man”, “New York State of Mind”, “Only the Good Die Young”, “My Life”, “Your Song”, “Daniel”, “Rocket Man”, “Candle in the Wind”, and many more. A special menu will be available before the performance at the Anacapa Restaurant. Seating is limited, so make your reservation early.
Home Improvement and Vendor Fair Saturday, March 1 / 10 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. Anacapa Patio and Breezeway
Browse through the many vendors including businesses that provide home improvement products or services to Corte Bella residents. CB residents wishing to be vendors should contact Monique: mmevents@juno.com or (480) 585-8639).
Valentine’s Day Dance
Friday, February 14 / 7:00 to 10:00 P.M. Santa Barbara Room (Doors open at 6:45) $7.50 per person; Cash bar (Tickets on sale Sunday, December 29 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center) Bring your Valentine and join your friends at our Valentine’s Day Dance. Enjoy the music of Billy James, one of Corte Bella’s favorite DJ’s, and dance the night away with everything from rock ‘n’ roll to line dancing to swing. A special Valentine dinner will be available before the performance at the Anacapa Restaurant. Seating is limited, so make your reservation early.
The Piano Man
Sunday, February 23 / 7:00 P.M. Santa Barbara Room (Doors open at 6:45) $22 per person (Tickets on sale Sunday, January 12 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center) The Piano Man celebrates the music of Billy Joel and Elton John who come to life in this multimedia tribute. British entertainer, Terry Davies, along with his extraordinary 9 piece band, recreate the sights, sounds, and amazing music of Billy and Elton, two of the most successful artists in rock ‘n’ roll history.
Cooking Demonstrations
March 7, April 3, and May 2 (Tickets on sale Sunday, January 26 at 10:00 A.M. at Fitness Center) Watch for emails and flyers for themes and details. Bon appétit!
3 International Tenors
Sunday, March 16 / 7:00 P.M. Santa Barbara Room (Doors open at 6:45) $ 22 per person (Tickets on sale Sunday, February 2 at 10:00 A.M. in the Fitness Center) 3 International Tenors is a tribute to some of the finest music in the world and features show stopping performances in tribute to Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Enrico Caruso, and others. Listen to some of the most memorable songs ever written including “Time to Say Goodbye”, “Ave Maria’, and “Nessum Doma”. This show is comprised of multiple genres including Opera, Musical Theatre, and Pop Opera (POPERA). Four singers from extremely diverse backgrounds bring you an evening you will never forget. Starring Johnny Huerta, Robert Erlichman, Guillermo Ontiveros, and Korean soprano, Michele Oh, this show will transport you to the great opera houses of Europe. Join us for 3 International Tenors. Experience an emotional show that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
January 2014 | CB Times | 15
ASSOCIATION
Corte Bella Events Hilda Furkert and Celeste Nelson
Holiday Transformations ... In search of a new holiday look, eightyfive women enjoyed an evening of wine, make-overs and entertainment. Cory Flotta and Kim Peacock of Chace Salon helped twenty-five models with their holiday hair styling dilemmas. Each model had requested a makeover that would accommodate her busy lifestyle. Imagine a hairstyle perfect for both the tennis court and a night out on the town. Or what style goes from the swimming pool to bridge?
The pictures below show a few of the many models as they waited behind the scenes for the show to begin. Some already donned their new hairstyles, and others were waiting for their makeovers.
With their transformations complete, the models strolled down the runway to the delight of the audience. So many new ideas for the busy holiday season!
... and Traditions A team of volunteers transformed Corte Bella into a festive feast for the eyes this holiday season. From atop lofty ladders, the new tree in the Anacapa was decorated with much care. All but the stockings were hung in the freshly decorated rooms in preparation for the annual tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 4.
The Corte Bella Chorus stood poised to begin their holiday program when who should appear but Santa Claus. With a hearty Ho! Ho! Ho! Santa ushered in the holiday season . The choir joined in the fun singing “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”.
If you couldn’t help but sing along to your favorite holiday songs, consider joining the Corte Bella Chorus. Contact Kay Steik (623 214-3284) for details.
Be sure to check out the Corte Bella website for additional photos from both of these holiday events.
Upcoming Events
R – L: Lynn Potter, Herdis Petersen, Shirley Herring, and Connie Lane
Santa (Eric Gow) and Jeanne Asmussen swing to” Jingle Bell Rock”
Under the direction of Gary Cravens, the chorus delighted the guests with holiday favorites such as
R – L: Elizabeth Blake, Jolene Piaskowski, Mary Nasca, and Marilyn Arrieta
With much gusto, John Belliveau counted down the moment the guests had waited for. And they were not disappointed. As Santa’s helper, Larry Leighton, lit the tree, it came alive in sparkles of gold and twinkles of light. Truly one of the great traditions of Corte Bella.
“Silver Bells”, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree”, “Feliz Navidad”, and a sing-along of “Corte Bella Wonderland”. In her own unique style, Bonnie Stenzel performed a moving rendition of “O Holy Night”.
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Jan. 8 Jan. 19 Jan. 22 Feb. 2 Feb. 12 Feb. 14 Feb. 23 Mar. 1 Mar. 7 Mar. 12 Mar. 16 Mar. 29 April 3 April 4
Farmer’s Market Orbison Years Shredding Event Super Bowl Party Farmer’s Market Valentine’s Dance The Piano Man Vendor Fair Cooking Demo Farmer’s Market 3 International Tenors Corte Bella Marketplace Cooking Demo (also May 2) Fashion Show
ONE-HOUR EMERGENCY GARAGE DOOR REPAIR AVAILABLE
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saveonservices@live.com
Not a Licensed Contractor (I don’t have to be.)
Hi, I'm Rick Lane, owner of "Save On Services". My brother, Marcus, and I answer our own phones and perform all repairs so that we know the WORK IS DONE RIGHT and you're treated as a VALUED CUSTOMER. We have no warehouse, low advertising costs and no employees, so we can offer you the LOWEST PRICES POSSIBLE and a LIFETIME WARRANTY ON ALL PARTS AND LABOR. Instead of worrying, just call us (Rick or Marcus!) right now. Frankly, most garage door problems are easier to repair and less costly than you might think. And if we don't have an inexpensive solution, we'll direct you to the right place. However, we can probably help you right away with advice, pricing questions, parts, service and repairs. If you're eager to get the door working again there's no problem we can't fix the same day you call. But no matter what the problem is, we can give you good advice.
Here’s some advice…BEWARE! Some companies have technicians who are paid a commission and have to charge more to make a paycheck. When you hear prices for springs start at $45 to $120 — LOOK OUT! There will be more hidden charges.
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We sell and install Weather-Stripping for the Top, Bottom & Sides for your Garage Door
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HOLIDAY SEASON
Event Recap:
Corte Bella Walk-Around Night Sam Himes On Friday, December 6 the fourth annual Corte Bella WalkAround Night was held where residents and guests gathered on San Ramon Drive to enjoy the many houses that are decorated for the Christmas Holidays. Over 30 houses in the area projected a holiday image of cheer and good will. As in past years, the residents who decorated their homes, opened their doors to greet visitors and share some Christmas spirit. Also present was the local chapter of the Salvation Army, present with their Brass Band and famous Red Kettle. This year there were also two special guests, Santa Clause (Ed Kuba) and his helper the Elf (Steve Buda). Together they entertained, assisted with donations, and posed for Christmas photos (taken by Jim Gannon). The celebration began at dusk, when the lights came on, and lasted until the cool Arizona weather turned cold at around 10:00 P.M. The grand total from the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle was $4062.42!
The neighborhood was alive with lights This was the greatest year yet in contributions and reflects the generosity of the Corte Bella residents. As one resident who participates in the decorating process said, “We get our gratification from the many residents who come by for this event and from the generous contributions they make to the Salvation Army.” Another event participant said, “We have a lot of fun putting up the lights and a lot of fun taking them down. It is a neighborhood event that nearly all the local neighbors participate in and enjoy.” If you missed the Walk-Around night, please drive or walk by during the holidays next year and enjoy the Christmas spirit which is alive and well in Corte Bella.
‘Twas a beautiful night for giving
The Holiday Spirit Editorial Staff The Corte Bella Cellar Dwellers gathered Friday, December 6 to celebrate the season in their traditional way, with an appetizer buffet and fine wine — only this year, there was an added twist. Hosts, Janice and Bob Aiken, greeted the guests, all of whom came bearing canned goods as the group’s donation for the local food bank. “We are amazed and so grateful for the generosity of this Corte Bella group — they brought over 226 pounds of food items,” Bob Aiken said.
No sooner did they enter, however, the guest were turned around and en-mass traveled over to the San Ramon neighborhood to enjoy a stroll down the street of lights. While they were there, they dropped over $500 into the Salvation Army’s red kettle. Cellar Dweller Coordinators, Robin and Michael Mandell took note of the charitable nature of the group’s members. “Thanks to the Aikens’ idea, this is the first year that the December Cellar Dwellers event was coordinated with the festive Walk Around Night. We’ll try to make it a new tradition and continue the great charitable contribution combined with a fun evening,” said Robin Mandell.
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Not Even a Crumb Remained (…Well, Maybe on the Floor) Regina Shanney-Saborsky It was the first weekend of December, 2013 and the Social Hall was bustling bright and early as cookies and breads, brownies and fudge made their way to the waiting tables. The sweet treats didn’t stop there. There were homemade purses, jewelry, pictures, wreaths, scarves and even a raffle basket of Christmas goodies with a stocking on top. Oh my! On Saturday, December 7, the sisters of SOuL (Smiling Out Loud) presented for the first time — and to the delight of Corte Bella residents — a Holiday Boutique and Bake Sale for the benefit of a local charity, Eve’s Place. The event was staffed by cochairs Eileen Stomski-Gow and Arleen Kann and their team of merry helpers who offered, collected, and sold raffle tickets to everyone — not once, but twice. The baked goods were lovingly made by SOuL sisters working diligently for days (even weeks) before the event and stored on shelves, in boxes and bags… our very own Corte Bella bakery. Various other Corte Bella residents contributed to the cause by purchasing tables to show their homemade wares, just in time for the holidays.
• • •
All day people came and went… raffle tickets were sold… and as the cookies and brownies dwindled, the popcorn and fudge disappeared. As the dust settled, the ladies of SOuL happily discovered that the day’s event resulted in over $3,900 being raised for Eve’s Place — happy holidays, indeed! So, please mark your calendars, again, for the benefit of Eve’s Place; there is a concert with Bonnie Stenzel and Katie Iverson on February 8 as well as the 5th Annual Taste of Spring on March 23. And last, but definitely not least, the ladies of SOuL want to thank everyone who supported the event, bought cookies, or jewelry or popcorn or wreaths. On behalf of Eve’s Place, thank you Corte Bella.
January 2014 | CB Times | 19
COMMUNITY
Ask Agnes: Old School Cleaners Nothing kicks it like old school, right? Back in the day we were able to accomplish lots of things that never made it to a TV ad! I’m listing some of my favorites because they do the job, are cheap, and not as toxic as some of the other things out there. 1. Fels Naptha — Use it to pre-treat oily or otherwise tough stains like chocolate, make-up and ring around the collar. Wet the bar, rub on, let sit for a few minutes and then wash as usual. It’s also a great shower cleaner! 2. Essential oils — Mix about 10 drops of lavender or lemongrass oil in 2 ounces of water in a spray bottle and wipe off grime from windows. Makes the house smell fresh. 3. Distilled white vinegar — It inhibits the growth of mold, mildew and some bacteria. Go nuts in the kitchen and bathroom. Spray it on the underarms of clothing and let
soak for 30 minutes to deodorize. Pour it in the washer to rescue a forgotten load from funky despair. Run it through an empty machine to get rid of odors. 4. Hydrogen peroxide — Mix 1 tablespoon with ¼ cup water and spray on fruits and vegetables to kill bacteria, then rinse. Use to disinfect cutting boards. Mix it with a little liquid dish soap to deodorize the cat box and trash cans. 5. Borax [sold as “20 Mule Team Borax”] — Add it to a little dish soap and tackle the refrigerator shelves. Pour down a clogged drain along with boiling water. Sprinkle around the house exterior to deter insects. Dilute and spray it to kill mildew in the bathroom. Pour it in the toilet and let it sit overnight and the next day, swish with a brush and flush.
Have a Special Moment or “Smile-stone” to Share With Us? We’re reinstituting the Corte Bella Times’ Milestones feature! Submit all “Smile-stones” to Susan Eisgrau, contributing writer, at REisgrau@cox.net
Free Monthly Trips to Wild Horse Pass Casino Our monthly flyer is posted under the Resident Sponsored Events page on the Corte Bella website. For more information and registration please contact Bill Blake at (623) 537-7969, or at willieb38@cox.net.
Every month a group of Corte Bella residents go to Wild Horse Pass Casino in Chandler, AZ. The trip is coordinated by Bill Blake. The trips depart on Mondays because it is Senior Day and players receive extra benefits. Our next trip: On Monday, January 13, the coach bus arrives to the parking lot at the Anacapa Restaurant at approximately 8:00 A.M. and returns at approximately 4:30 P.M. The transportation is free (excluding driver gratuity) and is direct to and from Wild Horse Pass.
20 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Builder of Confidence
The story of Don Civis, model ship master builder Janice Aiken
Don Civis pictured with his original model ship design, the Marie E. Seated in his living room, Corte Bella resident Don Civis and his wife, Marie, beam with pride and joy as they share the story of his becoming a master at the craft of model shipbuilding. Just prior to retiring as VP of Sales for the Dole Corporation, Don explored ideas of what he would like to do in his “next life.” Never one to let a moment go idle, he knew it would have to be both challenging and time consuming.
Almost on a whim, he purchased a ship building kit. The first one was made of plastic and he admits that it was both challenging and a bit of a failure; as were the next two or three kits, until he got his “sea legs” in mini marine construction techniques. Over the past 25 years, Don has designed, hand crafted, carved and hand assembled over 28 unique wooden ship models. One of his largest and most intricate is a nearly 3 foot long model of the AMERIGO VESPUCCI, a wooden sailing ship launched in 1931 as a training vessel for Italian Navy cadets. Ensconced under a glass case, the ship sits regally and after one glimpse, the viewer is captivated by its intricate construction. Cannons, masts, rigging, life boats, gold colored filigree, and pristine paint — all painstakingly applied in over 3,000 hours and in a span of two years — serves as a testament to Don’s masterful ship building skill.
“At first, I never thought I could achieve this, but shipbuilding builds confidence because of the need to be both patient and precise,” said Civis. Don turns 80 years old in January and thought he’d retire from ship building after he designed and completed an original model ship, decked out with a bright red hull, that he named the Marie E, in honor of his wife of 32 years. That was until he was introduced to fellow CB resident Paul Jacobs. When Paul was only 4 years old, his father began a wooden shipbuilding project and the hull, still unfinished, has been in Paul’s possession for over 50 years. Don agreed that it would be both an honor and a challenge to complete this treasured craft for his friend and neighbor. “However,” said Civis, “it’s going to take a while,” to which Jacobs replied, “It’s been 50 years, take all the time you need!”
One Woman Art Show Editorial Staff Marilyn Watkins, Corte Bella resident, in Connecting with the Divine Birt’s Bistro, 16752 Greasewood St, Surprise, AZ Marilyn Watkins has an extensive background in art, coming from a family of artists and having taught art in the public schools for many years. A resident of Corte Bella for 6 years, she continues to teach watercolor and acrylics. About 20 paintings are on display at Birt’s Bistro, a wonderful little café and bookstore off Bell and El Mirage. Marilyn paints intuitively and loves to experiment with color and texture. Her work can be seen now through January 22: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 7:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
January 2014 | CB Times | 21
CULINARY
Corte Bella Cooks: Ed and Shaun Schierberl Editorial Staff
Ed and Shaun Schierberl
Forty-eight years ago, Ed and Shaun Schierberl began dating in a suburban high school north of Seattle. Ed was a 17-year-old senior and Shaun a 16-yearold sophomore. They recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary, being married as Ed was starting his junioryear at the University of Washington. They were young at 20 and 19, and both worked while putting Ed through college.
Their first of four children arrived with Ed still facing a year before graduation. Ed’s first job after college, one in federal law enforcement, took them to northern California and then the Bay Area — both sides — where their three other children were born. The Schierberls had three daughters and then a son. Shaun worked in retail in California and then in northern Virginia when Ed’s job took him to Washington, D.C. This was followed by a move to Los Angeles. After two years there, they wanted to return to the Seattle area. To do so, Ed left government service and headed a business security consulting firm for several years. Shaun had office positions at a large cabinet manufacturing company and then at a computer hardware company. A few years later, Ed went to work for the U. S. Postal Service, holding numerous management positions in the Seattle area. About this time, Shaun began working in the front office and billing in a medical clinic. This led to her favorite job of all as the office manager of a women’s clinic. At this time they lived in Redmond, WA and the 16 years they lived there were the longest they spent in any one place. This allowed for all 4 of their children to grow up and graduate from the same high school. But, after their son graduated from the University of Washington in 2000, the couple became mobile once more. Ed took positions in New Mexico, followed by several in Colorado. Their final career move was to Spokane, WA in 2004 where Ed served as Postmaster until his retirement six years ago. Over the past 20 years, they would come to Arizona on personal and work trips. They loved the weather and started to be drawn to the northwest valley. For the first few years after retirement, they would spend two or three winter months in the area. They zeroed
in on Corte Bella when they finally made the move here 2½ years ago. They truly enjoy the Corte Bella community and its people and believe it is the best location in the area. The Schierberl’s four children have blessed them with 12 grandchildren ranging in age from 1 ½ to 20. Two daughters and five grandchildren live in the Seattle area and their other daughter, son and seven grandchildren live in the Washington, D.C. area, with their son a Major in the Air Force at the Pentagon and sonin-law a Commander at Coast Guard Headquarters.
Oh Sweet Mama….!
Shaun’s favorite recipe to make for her grandchildren back in a northern Virginia suburb of D.C.: On a visit this past summer to the DC clan, Shaun tried out this apple crisp recipe she had seen on Facebook. She figured her grandchildren would be honest critics as children usually are about how food tastes. Her 11-year-old granddaughter was outside playing during the baking. The apple crisp was just about done when her granddaughter came bounding through the front door and yelled, “Oh sweet mama, what’s that smell?” Everyone in the house broke out in laughter. She was right: it smelled wonderful and tasted good, too. During this visit, Shaun ended up making it a half dozen times. Her two teenage granddaughters are now baking this on a regular basis back in northern Virginia. At the request of her son-in-law, Shaun made this up one evening with peaches instead of apples. It was also good, but the consensus was that the apple version is better. You could also try different fruits or berries if you wish. (Ed says not to forget the vanilla ice cream on top.) Shaun now refers to this as the “Oh Sweet Mama” recipe.
Oh Sweet Mama Cake Mix Apple Crisp • • • •
5 to 7 Granny Smith apples sliced Yellow cake mix 2 tbsps. sugar (may adjust for personal preference) 1 tbsp. ground cinnamon (may adjust for personal preference) • 1/4 cup butter or margarine melted (may adjust for personal preference) The grandkids preferred this with more sugar, cinnamon and butter 1. Place apple slices in a 9 inch square pan 2. Sprinkle with dry cake mix 3. In small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon and sprinkle over cake mix 4. Drizzle melted butter or margarine over cake mix 5. Bake 30-45 minutes at 350 degrees until topping is golden brown Check at 30 minutes and continue baking as necessary until done as desired. Enjoy the smell and taste of Oh Sweet Mama.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
Pickleball News John Friesner, President, CB Pickleball Club With the holidays behind us, the high season in fifth gear, and the rest of our members returning, the pickleball courts are busy every morning and some evenings. Eight courts are now available for member play on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays for January and February and then we’ll shift to Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for March and April. If you would like to learn about this fabulous game, stop by after 9:00 A.M. and I’m sure one of our members would be glad to answer any questions you may have. The Corte Bella Pickleball Club has a couple of great events planned for January. On Saturday, January 11, we’ll have our first pickleball social of the new year to welcome back our snowbird friends. There will be plenty of pickleball to be played, but the food is always the standout. All community residents are invited to attend. The event will start at 1:00 P.M. and go until no one is left standing. In addition, on Monday, January 20 at 2:00 P.M., we will be conducting a clinic for those that are new to the game. If you would like to join in on the fun, come on out! We’ll have a few of our more experienced players available to offer helpful hints so you can enjoy the game that much more. Also, tournament season is upon us. In December, several of our members had some great results in tournament play. Gwen Miller and her partner took the silver medal in 4.0 women’s doubles in the Venture Out Tournament in Mesa and then backed it up with the bronze medal in the Surprise Pickleball Fundraiser tourney on December 6. Gwen then teamed up with this author and took the bronze medal in the Mesa Regal Tournament on December 11. Congratulations to Gwen… what a month!
In addition, Rudy Black and Liz Kozloski, in their first tournament, took the gold medal in the 3.0 women’s doubles in the Surprise tourney. January has two great tournaments in the west valley. On January 17 through 19, the third Surprise Fundraiser Tournament will take place on the Surprise public courts, and the 2014 Happy Trails Classic will be held on the 20th through the 24th. As a reminder, if you would like to reserve a court for pickleball, go to http://holdmycourt.com/reserve2/cortebella and reserve an open court. The first time you visit the site, you’ll need to sign in/register and enter your name, email, password, and phone number. For future reservations, you’ll enter your email address and password. So, bookmark the site and join in on this fantastic game. And finally, if you’d like to consider membership in the Corte Bella Pickleball Club, your membership includes: •
Access to all member play times
•
Ability to join in ladder play
•
All pickleballs provided for all member play times
•
Name tag with the Corte Bella Pickleball Club logo
•
Invitations to all social events
•
Nonstop fun!
So… stop by the courts and investigate the fastest growing sport in the United States. Check out our calendar of events posted on the bulletin board next to the courts. Have questions? Send us an email at cortebellapickleballclub@outlook.com See you on the courts!
Look Out: Golf Cart Safety Bill Blake, Board Liaison to the Neighborhood Awareness and Safety Committee (NASC) Recently, there have been reports of young children driving golf carts in the community. This is very dangerous and can result in a serious injury to the participants and others. Please discourage this type of activity for the safety of all residents. We want to keep our roads safe for everyone. And finally, it is illegal -- and not covered by any insurance policy -- to drive a golf cart without a driver’s license. Thank you.
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Casual Golf Outside the Gate Ed Purfield Are you: •
An infrequent, casual golfer who likes to play every now and then?
•
A golfer residing in Corte Bella part time who plays infrequently while here?
•
A golfer who needs a place to take visitors for a round of golf?
If your answer to any of these questions was “yes”, then read further because I think many of you will be surprised and pleased at what I have discovered locally. There are 21 golf courses within 10 miles of Corte Bella. All welcome outside play and all except for Coyote Lakes are located in a senior community. One facility will even issue you a golf access card that allows you to book tee times 5 days in advance using their computer tee time system. This operation also offers a rewards program that accumulates points towards free stuff, either as green fees or pro shop merchandise. These courses, their locations, and number and type course are listed below. Sun City Arizona — Eight courses consisting of three executive course and five regulation courses. Sun City Grand — Four regulation courses. Sun City West — Hillcrest Golf course consisting of once regulation course. You can use your own cart here if you wish. Surprise, Coyote Lakes — One regulation course including free GPS on the golf cart. Sun City West Recreation Association courses — Seven golf courses consisting of three executive courses and four regulation courses. They offer a golf access card for online bookings and a rewards program mentioned previously. If you happen to own your own golf cart you can use it for play on these courses at a discount rate. Last but not least, our developer had the foresight to construct a golf cart only path directly to Sun City West so that occasional golfers would not need to drive their golf carts on Deer Valley Road. This provides access to Hillcrest Golf Course and the seven Sun City West Recreation Association courses. Happy golfing.
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TECHNOLOGY
Try Using Evernote Stan Sacha, Coordinator, Corte Bella Computer Club If you’re like me, you can use all the memory help you can get. Even when I write things down, I forget where I put the note! Fortunately, I stumbled upon a popular application that can help us whether we are using our computer, tablet, or smartphone — and it keeps your notes synchronized between all of them! It’s called “Evernote”, and it can remember things for us neatly, without having cock tail napkins or sticky notes lying around the house. Now, I hear some of you saying to yourself, “Well, heck, all computers have a notepad! Why would I need this?” If you are one of those naysayers, you’re missing the point. Evernote is a lot more than that. You can capture everything you want to remember (not just text), and conveniently keep it in the “cloud” where you can find what you’re looking for much easier than some obscure text file on your computer. And you can access this information from anywhere with any capable device.
Evernote has an almost unlimited amount of uses. You can publically share your files with others for collaborative purposes. You can put your notes in a “notebook”, such as your upcoming travel information, your recipes, your scrapbook, and so on. The practical uses are only limited by your ingenuity. Evernote also has add-on programs that are rather interesting. One I found intriguing is called “Skitch”, which enables those who are inclined to pen their creative ideas on paper a way to capture them digitally, and keep them with everything else in their Evernote notebook. Sound interesting? Do you remember what I was just talking about? I hope so. I really suggest you give Evernote a try. Our December Computer Club meeting discussed Evernote in some detail, but if you missed it, you can still see my notes at http:// CorteBellaClub.org/notes.
Technology for Connecting with Family… John Eakins Some of us escaped to Corte Bella only to find that we must occasionally touch base with grandkids and others in the family. Many of us use Skype, but on a small screen it can be more of an aggravation than a quality visit. Recently, I came across a product that should make connecting with grandchildren, children, and other loved ones more of a pleasure. It’s called TelyHD and delivers high-definition Skype video calls directly to an HMDI port on a TV. With this you can make connections to any Skype user who is using any device, anywhere in the world. Another product to link with family is Telikin, a simple computer designed for people who’ve never used computers and including video chat, photo sharing, e-mail, and other features into a touchscreen device. Telikin comes with its software fully installed and ready to go, so it is simple to set up and use. TelyHD does not require a computer, nor is there any software to install. Designed for the living room, TelyHD features a highdefinition camera with wide-angle lens and microphones. It also allows you to share photos from an SD card or USB memory stick and to send and receive video mail. And there are no monthly fees. Of course you can use TelyHD for more than connecting with family: Use it for business video conferences with two or more locations connected. You can get more information from Telylabs at (650) 318-3549 or www.tely.com.
The video chat program connects to Skype, the photo gallery to Facebook, and the e-mail browser to any POP3 or IMAP e-mail service. Among its applications is a productivity suite compatible with Microsoft Office, games, and media players. Find out more from Telikin at (800) 230-3881 or www.telikin.com. I found the Telikin product in an article by Laurie Orlov on homecaremag.com. Laurie is the founder of Aging in Place Technology Watch, www.ageinplacetech.com. She has several other products that can be of help to some of us concerned about our own health or aging family, whether far from us or even here in the valley.
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Quick-hitting Tech Tips for Improving Personal Health John Eakins Listed below are some products that greatly assist with personal health that I discovered in Aging in Place Technology Watch, a website helpful for “connected” or “plugged in” adults. Fitbit has products to display real-time activity statistics to make it easier to reach personal goals. They track steps taken, stairs climbed, distance traveled, calories burned, activity level, sleep quality, weight, body fat percentage, and BMI. Find out more at www.fitbit.com. Prevent is a 16-week online program designed to help people lose weight and change things that put them at risk for type2 diabetes. It combines a plan with individual mentorship to guide participants toward their achievable goals. See more at omadahealth.com/programs/prevent GreatCall has MedCoach, a free app that delivers medication schedule reminders to your smartphone. It can also connect you to your pharmacy for refills. And finally, there’s the free app, Symptom Checker, which serves as a medical dictionary for prescriptions by phone and 24/7 access to nurses or doctors. Find out more at (800) 733-6632 or www.greatcall.com.
Wanted: Technology Committee Volunteers As mentioned in this month’s CB Times, the Board has approved creation of a Technology Committee. The Committee’s purpose, functions and responsibilities are listed in their Charter listing the purpose, functions, and available on the Corte Bella website in the Resource Center under Technology Committee. We hope to attract individuals with a wide range of knowledge and expertise to advise the Board, and help sort out a technology-related strategy, and proposals and issues. If you are interested in joining the Technology Committee or simply want more information, then please contact the Committee Liaison, Jim Williams, at CorteBellaJim@cox.net or contact the HOA Office (623-328-6058, option 4).
January 2014 | CB Times | 27
SOCIAL CLUB
Where Did You Come From? Corte Bella Genealogy Club Ronald E. Gray (The first installment of two)
“Where did you come from?” No, I don’t mean that place up north that you left to enjoy our nice weather and beautiful community. I mean where did your ancestors come from and, more importantly, why did they migrate here? Most of us are not Native Americans, so we are only here because our ancestors migrated from another continent and met here. If they had not done so, we would never have existed. Aren’t you curious about what motivated them to make such a move and whether or not their dreams were fulfilled? My search for my ancestors began when we moved to Corte Bella. We had a lot of items stored in boxes for five years while we took our time buying the right home. When we did move in May 2012, opening boxes containing forgotten treasures was like having Christmas again. One item was a carefully folded cloth on which someone had stitched one branch of our family tree. The branch was that of Kalso Gray (1768-1830) and his family who lived in Montpelier, VT. The work was done by a family member around the time of the American Civil War. The cloth was brown with age and I knew immediately that this was a treasured family heirloom that needed to be framed and hung on a wall. I gave it to my wife and asked her to press out the wrinkles so I could get it framed. She was reluctant to do so for fear that she would ruin the treasured heirloom. I reassured her that I had every confidence in her ability to do a good job and assured her that she wouldn’t dare ruin it. The accompanying photograph shows the framed family heirloom that now hangs in our home. My interest in my family was now piqued and my search was just beginning. Possessing one of the top 100 most common names in the United States, I quickly found a wealth of information. A book on the Gray Genealogy by Marcius D. Raymond was both helpful and interesting. It must have taken years to research as it all was done by correspondence. The book itself was published in 1887, long before computers and the Internet. Our research is just a fingertip away with the advent of the Internet and various genealogical sites. If you were like me, when the old folks started talking about the past on the front porch, you went inside and watched television on one of two channels that were available. Then when the adults came inside to watch Lawrence Welk, I would go out on the front porch. I do remember my Dad saying that five brothers came over together. My wife gave me Ancestory.com for Christmas 2012 and I was off and running on my research. I quickly found ancestors back eight generations and discovered we had an interesting history.
By searching the Internet, I found early history books and sites that mentioned my ancestors and their migration from Northern Ireland. I also took the Family DNA test and discovered new relatives. I was contacted by a Rory Gray the day before I got my results as he was already part of the Gray Family Tree DNA Project. Rory lives in Roswell, GA, but he also lived a couple of years in Roswell, NM. I fondly refer to my first contact being with one of the Roswell Grays, not the ones from 1947 but rather the ones that came here almost 300 years ago. Rory’s aunt in Tucson did all the family research and we met with her for lunch. It was a great meeting and we felt like we knew her for years, it became a real family reunion. She is meeting Rory in Phoenix and we are planning lunch with them at the Anacapa Restaurant. In the second installment (printed in February’s issue of the CB Times), I will tell you about the interesting things I was able to quickly learn about my family. If you have an interest in finding your ancestors, you should consider joining the Corte Bella Genealogy Club. We share our experiences, explore various genealogical resources and assist each other in overcoming roadblocks. We meet the third Saturday from 9:00 A.M. to 11:00 A.M. Contact Pat Burke at patburke48@gmail.com if you would like to join or attend one of our meetings. The genealogy experience of our members runs from beginner to advanced. Try a free, no obligation trial meeting.
28 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
A World of Friends: A New Corte Bella Social Group Evie Hansen
Corte Bella residents and world travelers Evie and Randy Hansen came to the Arizona desert after Randy retired from his commercial fishing business in Alaska. Feeling a bit like a fish out of water, Evie and Randy ventured out into the community of Corte Bella and found a world of interesting people. They fell hook, line and sinker in love with the diversity of the backgrounds and cultures of the people they met here. “We’ve met residents who’ve come from all over the world. Some of whom left the ‘old country’ years ago, others who are newly relocated,” Evie said. Hoping to snag some interesting stories from them and to learn more of their rich history, music, customs, culture and of course, food, Evie has cast out this invitation to CB’s multi-cultural residents to create a new group called, A World of Friends. The flagship event will be held at the home of Evie and Randy Hansen on Monday, January 20, 2014 at 4:30 P.M. *** 22628 N. San Ramon Drive Please RSVP to Evie & Randy Hansen (206) 497-6561, or e-mail to: Evie.Hansen.NSE@gmail.com Who can come? Anyone interested in sharing in the richness of our multi-cultural backgrounds. Come if you were born in the USA, in another country, have spent time living abroad, or if you are just… an interesting person! Please come to the celebration with a finger food appetizer from your country, a story to tell, and any drink of your preference, perhaps a unique wine from your area. The hosts will provide soft drinks, smiles and Alaskan humor, just for the halibut!
480.266.5034
January 2014 | CB Times | 29
SOCIAL CLUB
Elvis is in the Building Italian American Club Back by popular demand, Corte Bella’s Italian American Club (IAC) is bringing back world famous Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison impressionist Roy LeBlanc. It’s been three years since Roy last appeared at Corte Bella, and so… the wait has ended. Open to all residents, the show will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2014 in the Social Hall at 7:00 P.M. The show will be preceded
by an IAC-sponsored dinner at the Anacapa Restaurant at 5:00 PM. Tickets for the dinner and show and dinner are available for just $40.00. For more information or to set your reservation, please email the IAC President, Jack Carollo at ajlcarollo@cox.net
New Dance Moves with some New Friends Cindy Buda The Corte Bella Steppers, a fun line dancing club, has gained momentum since the group’s inception this past fall. Currently, we dance to country, swing, rock and roll, and have yet to dance to disco. I believe we’ve learned about 15 dances since spring 2013 sessions, including Christmas music which was added in the month of December! Throughout our various events, we have met some wonderful new friends and enjoy dancing and getting off the couch. Learning the dances is easy! Step sheets are passed out at club meetings and we also can go to line dance websites for more dance sheets and also to view videos. Here are a few: www.copperknob.co.uk www.kickit.to/ld/search.html www.youtube.com www.linedancermagazine.com To join us, visit the Anacapa Restaurant’s patio on the first and third Thursdays of each month from 5:30 to 6:00 P.M. (when we
socialize), and from 6:00 to 7:30 P.M. (when we dance)! For more information, call Cindy Buda at (708) 337-0008.
An Active Genealogy Group in Corte Bella Pat Burke
What is genealogy and why might you want to have an interest? Genealogy: The gathering of family names and dates. Family History: Getting to know the family details, struggles, what they did, how they lived, etc. First of all it is fun to see what we can learn about our ancestors and how far back we can go; secondly it is good to do it while there are still relatives alive who can answer questions or provide information; thirdly, it is interesting to learn about your ancestor’s family history; fourthly, it is great to be part of a supportive group with similar interests. Our Corte Bella group has varying degrees of interest in genealogy
and family history as well as experience in each. One of the best parts of our monthly Saturday morning meetings is the sharing of our research experiences, including new places to research. We learn a lot from each other and we receive aid in “breaking down brick walls.” We also have a special presentation each month as part of our meeting. We meet on either the second or third Saturday of each month and our dates are shared six months out. Whether you have a long history in the U.S. or you’re first generation, we find lots of information in other countries. We invite you to come to a meeting and see if would like to become a part of the CB Genealogy Group. For questions or additional information, please contact Pat Burke: patburke48@gmail.com or (623) 748-3751.
30 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
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