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CONTENTS
What’s Inside December 2020
COMMUNITY INFORMATION 6 Numbers to Know ASSOCIATION 8 Gratitude, Hope and Commitment 8 From the Editor’s Desk 9 Board Talk
10 Corte Bella Events
11 Upcoming HOA Events
12 December 2020 Calendar
CULINARY
14 A Truly Mouth-Watering Recipe You Must Try
16
16 Wine Pairings for the Holiday Season
17 Clayton Spangler, Cheerfully Confident
COMMITTEE 18 Corte Bella Budget Comparison Report 19 A Community Reminder
19 Corte Bella Resident Home-Based Services
COMMUNITY 20 Corte Bella Vets Happenings
22 Patrick and Donna Folan, Jewels of Corte Bella 23 Support the Salvation Army Angel Tree 23 Who’s There?
24 Corte Bella Adventure Group
22
25 What’s Happening in Corte Bella
25 Chanukah - A Timeless Celebration 26 Walkabout Night
27 Birds in Paradise (Part Twelve)
27 Your Corte Bella Garden in December
HEALTH & FITNESS
28 Corte Bella Pickleball News 28 Corte Bella Golf Club News
29 Corte Bella Tennis Club News
29
SOCIAL CLUB 30 Club & Interest Groups
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: CB Times photographer Mike Biggs found this festive image in his Corte Bella files.
To submit possible articles or photos for inclusion in future issues of the CB Times and to make changes to the interest group listings, please email the editor at trgibe@aol.com.
Editor | Linda Wright Copy Editors | Elspeth Chambers | Nancy Kronlund Renee Neuman | Carole Peterson Contributing Writers | Michael Arrington | Joel Block | Mary Blome Kathy Carmickle | Jodell Dodge | Steve Downing | Dawn Ferch Nate and Jeanne Gowan | Dan Haywood | Sam Himes Pam Lawrence | Deborah Lazear | Chris McGee | Donna Norton Judy Rischall | Tyson Siegler | Karen Starkman | Dave Thomas David Wright | Linda Wright Photography | Michael Biggs and Jim Laskowicz To advertise in the CB Times, please contact Jonathan E. Himlin at 480.636.6670 or LionTreeCommunications@Gmail.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. ©2020 CB Times Magazine. All rights reserved. Please recycle.
4 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Scott M. Kennedy Corte Bella Resident (623) 745-5088 scottmkennedy@cox.net
Scott Kennedy’s Home Services, LLC Home Watch Services
Protecting your Corte Bella investment.
Handyman Services
Maintaining your Corte Bella investment.
Your Corte Bella Home Watch & Handyman Specialist!
December 2020 | CB Times | 5
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
Please check the Corte Bella website for updated information on operating hours for Corte Bella amenities.
Board of Directors
Community Resources
Corte Bella Administration
Kathy Carmickle Treasurer Liaison to the Finance Committee Liaison to the Technology Committee kathy.carmickle@icloud.com
Guard House, 623-544-3906 Fax: 623-544-3911 Email: securitas@cortebellacca.com Gate Hours: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM Daily Roving Patrol: Monday - Friday 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM Saturday -Sunday 5:00 AM to 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM to Midnight Patrol Cell: 623-256-2907 Guards are present from 5:00am- 8:00pm. Homeowners can call the mobile phone between 8:00pm & 11:30pm Mon -Fri and until midnight Sat & Sun- Guards will return immediately to the gate house for admittance.
Association Office 22155 North Mission Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375 Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM-4 PM 623-328-5068 Ext. 221
Catherine Kelly Director Liaison to the Anacapa Advisory Group ca40th@gmail.com Steve Michaud Vice President Liaison to Golf Club Liaison to the Long Term Planning Committee svmichaud@gmail.com Debra Raeder-Gay Secretary Liaison to the Government Affairs Committee debra@debraeder.com David Saulnier President Committee Liaison to the Architectural Review Committee davesaulnier.cb@gmail.com Dave Thomas Assistant Treasurer Liaison to the Neighborhood Awareness and Safety Committee putt_thomas@yahoo.com Linda Wright Director Liaison to the Building and Grounds Committee linda.wright.0929@gmail.com
Anacapa Restaurant, 623-455-9045 Hours: Lunch: 11 AM - 3 PM Tuesday – Saturday Dinner: 4:30 - 8:00 PM Tuesday – Saturday Sunday Buffet: 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM Closed Mondays
Michael Arrington, HOA General Manager 623-328-5068 Michael.Arrington@fsresidential.com Heather Chavez, Administrative Supervisor 623-328-5068 ext. 222 HChavez@cortebellacca.com Richard Lopez, Facilities Manager 623-328-5068 ext. 223 rlopez@cortebellacca.com Jodell Dodge, Spa & Fitness Manager 623-328-5068 ext. 225 JDodge@cortebellacca.com
Fitness Center, 623-217-2018 Hours: Monday-Friday, 5 AM-9:00 PM Sat & Sun, 6 AM-9:00 PM Children’s Pool Hours 10 AM-1 PM & 5-7 PM Day Spa, 623-217-2018 8 AM to 7 PM, By Appointment
Jill Machay, Anacapa Food and Beverage Manager 623-328-5068, ext 233 jmachay@cortebellacca.com
Corte Bella Golf Club, 623-556-8951 Hours: Monday-Sunday 6:30 AM-5:00 PM Tyson Siegler, Membership Director tsiegler@cortebellagolfclub.com John Jackson, General Manager (623) 474-3612 jjackson@scottsdalegolfgroup.com
Pam Lawrence, Lifestyle Manager 623-328-5068 ext. 224 Fax: 623-328-5319 plawrence@cortebellacca.com
Corte Bella Website Community Website: www.cortebella.net Residents & Visitor Registration: www.cortebella.org
FirstService
Photo by Michael Biggs
24-HOUR EMERGENCY (480) 551-4300
6 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Dan Haywood, Anacapa Executive Chef 623-328-5068 ext. 232 dhaywood@cortebellacca.com
Maria Sobocinski, HOA Receptionist 623-328-5068 HOAreceptionist@cortebellacca.com Administrative Assistant (vacant) 623-328-5068 ext. 240 admin@cortebellacca.com Jacob Whittington, Operations Coordinator 623-328-5068, ext. 236 jwhittington@cortebellacca.com
December 2020 | CB Times | 7
ASSOCIATION
Gratitude, Hope and Commitment As this unusual and challenging year winds down, I can report that although we have all been forced to adapt to different ways and methods, our Corte Bella Board of Directors and management team have done so and overcome all obstacles related to conducting the association’s business. At every turn, we found
Mike Arrington, General Manager
a way, and then a better way, to get it done without missing a beat in the midst of new restrictions and continually changing constraints. I want to thank and congratulate everyone for their persistence, patience and determination in making sure that Corte Bella operated so well as a community and as a corporation. Many of these folks are volunteers, which makes the effort even more impressive and significant. They worked very hard on your behalf, simply because they cared and knew what they were doing was important to you. Never before has an HOA Board had so many significant and important decisions to make; and they made each one of them with careful consideration and confidence, even though there was much liability and risk at times. Many decisions were related to the safety and well-being of our residents. Each Director fully accepted the challenges before them and never shied away. I am very grateful for their effort and commitment, but mostly for their courage. Soon, there will be a “Call for Candidates” in the mail to you. You will soon elect the 2021 Board of Directors by way of an annual election, which will conclude at the Annual Meeting of the Members scheduled for early March. Now is the time to consider running for one of four openings on the board. We field
a lot of opinions and complaints each year from some residents, but when it is time to elect a board, few commit to becoming candidates for a board director position. Due to the By-Law revision passed in 2020, there will be four open Director positions for the 2021 election. The two candidates receiving the most votes will be elected to a three year term, whereas the two receiving the third and fourth most votes will win a two year term. Three of the current Directors are expected to complete their terms and one more year to serve. Please consider a run for the board if you are interested in serving your community and have some time to devote to the work. Lastly, it has indeed been a very challenging year for many and has affected everyone adversely in some way or another. I suggest we all commit to enjoying the up-coming holiday season to the utmost and to closing the year 2020 out the right way with much positivity and compassion for each other. As 2020 comes to a close, be hopeful and positive that we will all get back to the normal lives we are used to and that everything will turn out just fine. Patience and understanding will be a premium moving forward. I can promise you that the First Service Residential team is committed to doing just that. Our team looks forward to serving all of the Corte Bella residents in the coming new year with confidence, hope and determination to make your 2021 the best one possible. I wish for you all a very Happy Holidays from the First Service Residential team and I promise you we will lead the way with passion and positivity. That will be the theme that I charge to myself and to my team for the upcoming year. I hope everyone will join us in this effort and help us to reboot. Happy Holidays to you all. I hope for a wonderful 2021 for all Corte Bellans.
From the Editor’s Desk “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – so goes the cheerful lyrics of a popular song for the holiday season. While this has been a difficult Spring, Summer, and Fall for everyone, my hopes are that each
Linda Wright, Editor CB Times of you readers will find a special way to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. There are so many reasons to be hopeful and positive about the future and the new year upcoming. The CB Times, as
a community publication, will be looking forward to 2021 with much enthusiasm and anticipation. Join us who work on this magazine in our efforts to stay focused on what is real, worthy and possible. May your Christmas be happy, may your Chanukah be blessed, and may your new year’s resolutions be manageable. From me to all of you who live in this lovely Northwest Valley community – I wish you the happiest of holidays and a very peaceful new year. At this time of year, I never tire of saying this Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!
8 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Board Talk
Home sales in Maricopa County are up significantly and new building around the Corte Bella perimeter continues to expand. For residents that use the “back gate�, that exits onto El Mirage Road, this is easy to believe
Dave Thomas, Board Liaison, Neighborhood Awareness and Safety Committee as traffic continues to increase. Left turns continue to be an increasing challenge and at times getting past the gate can be tough.
If you have been following recent HOA Board of Directors’ meetings, you are aware that a traffic signal/light will be going in at the back gate after the new year. Due to the amount of traffic exiting through that gate, there is concern that we could
experience a high degree of congestion as the signal rotates. Currently, there is only enough room for 4-5 cars in each lane and, of course, any vehicle with a trailer reduces that number. As we anticipate the traffic light installation, we want to make sure we keep the gate and intersection clear, as vehicles pass through the gate. The exit gate currently uses an in-ground sensor that opens the gate for anyone leaving the property, which includes all service vehicles. We are looking into the possibility of eliminating the sensor and making the gate a resident (with transmitter) exit only. This will mean that all service vehicles will be required to exit through the main gate, which will help reduce the back gate potential congestion. This article is to let everyone know that you will be seeing changes to the back gate traffic flow in the near future. If any resident has any concerns, thoughts or ideas, please feel free to reach out to me at putt_thomas@yahoo.com or any member of the HOA Board.
December 2020 | CB Times | 9
ASSOCIATION
Corte Bella Events HOA Sponsored Events:
“First Friday - Coffee with Pam” Dates: (1st Friday of every month) Friday, December 4 Upcoming First Friday Chats: Friday, January 8 (2021) Bacara Room VIA ZOOM Time: 10:00 AM Cost: Free Event
Bella is amazingly generous – please help continue the trend. Anacapa Special Event:
This event will be held as scheduled!
Christmas Tree Lighting Date: Thursday, December 3 Anacapa dining customers only Time: Tree lighting at 6:00 PM
As is the custom in Corte Bella, the community Christmas tree will be illuminated by Santa Claus in the Anacapa reception area. Plan to dine in the Anacapa this evening so you can see the beautiful tree light up to begin the Christmas season.
Corte Bella’s Lifestyle Manager, Pam Lawrence invites you to exchange ideas, ask questions and get firsthand knowledge of what is happening in Corte Bella.
HOA Sponsored Events:
Food Truck Mondays
Hanukkah “Festival of Lights”
Dates: Monday, December 7, 14, 21, 28 Anacapa Parking Lot Time: 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM If you’re looking for a dinner time treat on a Monday, come on down to the Anacapa parking lot and partake of several offerings (two trucks at each Monday event) that will feature street food concepts of Asian fusion, Cajun and Creole, Korean, Mediterranean, Mexican, Southern Soul food, Thai and, of course, pizza. A community eblast on Thursday before that Monday will alert the residents to which truck will be in attendance. Many trucks will allow preorder of menu items. Credit cards are accepted Note: masks and social distancing are mandatory while at the venue.
Many of the usual events and activities may not be held due to current CDC guidelines and Arizona State executive orders. Should circumstances allow, any changes will be announced via eblasts and flyers. It’s hoped that in 2021 there will be the possibility of resuming some of the activities and events that our community is accustomed to being offered.
This event will be held as scheduled!
Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree Date: Ends Monday, December 14 Fitness Center Christmas Tree
The Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree is ready for you to select your Angel, a disadvantaged child who is waiting for you to make their Christmas a magical one. Each Angel hanging on the tree provides a child’s name and age along with a list of their Christmas gift dreams. Bring the unwrapped gifts back to the tree with the original Angel tag attached before December 14th and the Salvation Army will take care of delivery. Here’s your chance to make a child’s Christmas a very special one. Every year, Corte
This event will be held as scheduled! Dates: Thursday, December 10 to Friday, December 18th To celebrate Hanukkah, the lighting of the menorah will occur in the Anacapa each sunset (5:15 PM) from December 10th to December 18th. On Sundays and Mondays, the menorah will be moved to the Fitness Center for the ceremony.
This event will be held as scheduled!
Annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade
Date: Friday, December 16 Anacapa Parking Lot and around the circle (plus the San Ramon Christmas Street) Time: carts line up beginning at 5:30 PM with the parade beginning at 6:00PM Cost: Free Event Decorate your golf cart for the season and join in the fun of a real Christmas holiday parade in Corte Bella. Use your imagination and create something wonderful to share with your community. Parade route will encompass the “circle” and through the Christmas Streets of San Ramon. There will be a prize and bragging rights for the best decorated golf cart. Participants in the parade must register with Lifestyle Manager Pam Lawrence (plawrence@ cortebellacca.com) by December 15th.
10 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Anacapa Special Events:
Community Charity Events of Interest:
San Ramon Stringers Walkabout Night with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Date: Friday, December 4 San Ramon Christmas Streets Time: At Sunset (see article in this issue)
SOuL’s Holiday Boutique
Date: Saturday, December 5 Place: Cul-de-Sac at W. Micheltorena Court, Las Palmas Neighborhood Time: 9:00 AM to 12 Noon (see flyer in this issue)
This event will be held as scheduled!
Christmas Eve Dinner
Date: Thursday, December 24 Anacapa and Santa Barbara Room Time: Regular Dinner Service Hours Cost: will be provided via eblast & flyer On this magical, wonderful night come enjoy a holiday feast prepared just for Corte Bella in a special limited menu offering. Every year, Corte Bella is treated to a holiday dinner to remember and this year will be no different. Tables are limited. Note: No lunch service or regular dinner menu service. Reservations are required. Call 623-455-9045 HOA Sponsored Event:
Holiday Hours for Spa, Fitness and Pool: Christmas Eve - Thursday, December 24th 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Christmas Day, Friday, December 25th CLOSED New’s Year’s Eve, Thursday, December 31st 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon NOTE: All Events and Activities Are Tentative, Subject to Availability of HOA Facilities Under Mandatory COVID-19 Guidelines and Procedures
Annual New Year’s Eve Extravaganza Dinner & Dance - CANCELLED
Upcoming HOA Events
Date: Thursday, December 31
Jan 8 First Friday with Pam Feb 1 First Friday with Pam Every Monday evening – Food Truck Mondays Jan 4, 11, 18, 25
Anacapa Special Event:
Anacapa Special Events
This event will be held as scheduled!
New Year’s Eve Dinner
Date: Thursday, December 31 Anacapa Dining Room Time: Regular Dinner Service Hours Cost: will be provided via eblast & flyer Come raise a glass of bubbly and salute the end of this most unusual year. Usher in the new year with a special limited menu prepared for the occasion by Executive Chef Dan Haywood and his kitchen staff. Front of the house staff under the direction of Jill MaChay, will make certain your evening is special in every way. Tables are limited. Note: No lunch service or regular dinner menu service. Reservations are required. Call 623-455-9045
Dec 3 Annual Tree Lighting Dec 24 Christmas Eve Dinner Dec 31 New Year’s Eve Dinner
Upcoming HOA Board of Directors Meetings Dec 18 Dec 23 Jan 22 Jan 27
HOA Board of Directors Workshop HOA Board of Directors Open Meeting HOA Board of Directors Workshop HOA Board of Directors Open Meeting
Important HOA Board of Directors Election Information Jan 15 Jan 20 Jan 22 Mar 1
Last Date to Submit Application for Board Election Meet the Candidates Night #1 Meet the Candidates Night #2 Annual Membership Meeting & Election of Board Directors
December 2020 | CB Times | 11
ASSOCIATION
DECEMBER SUN
MON
TUE
WED
THU
1
Anacaoa Sunday breakfast 8:30 to 12:00 Noon
6
Food Truck Monday 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Hannukkah begins at sunset - light the Menorah 5:15 PM
Anacapa Sunday Anacaoa Sunday breakfast 8:30 to 12:00 Noon
7 Lady Putters 9:00 AM
13
CB Vets Regular Meeting 9:00 AM via ZOOM
8
14 Lady Putters 9:00 AM
15
Last day for Salvation Army Christmas Angel Tree gifts
20
Buildings and Grounds Committee 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
9
3
Anacapa Christmas Tree Lighting 6:00 PM (dine-in only)
Chanukah Begins at Sunset
21 Lady Putters 9:00 AM
22
Long Term Planning 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
San Ramon “Walk About Night” at Dusk w/Sa;vation Army Red Kettle
Soul Holiday Boutique 9:00 AM 12:00 Noon
5
11
12
16
17
18 HOA Board Workshop 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
19
ARC Meeting 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
4th Annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade 6:00 PM
Finance Committee 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
HOA Board of Directors Meeting 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
23
Chanukah ends at sunset
24
CHRISTMAS EVE Pool/Fitness Center Hours 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon
28
29
30
Lady Putters 9:00 AM
25
MERRY CHRISTMAS! HOA Offices, Anacapa, Pool/ Fitness Center CLOSED
Anacapa Christmas Eve Dinner 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM 27
4
First Friday with Pam 10:00 AM via ZOOM
10
ARC Submittal Deadline 4:00 PM
Food Truck Monday 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Anacaoa Sunday breakfast 8:30 to 12:00 Noon
SAT
Technology Committee 10:00 AM
Food Truck Monday 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM Anacaoa Sunday breakfast 8:30 to 12:00 Noon
2
FRI
31
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Food Truck Monday 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Pool/Fitness Center Hours 5:00 AM to 12:00 Noon Anacapa New Year’s Eve Dinner 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
HOA EVENTS - GREEN HOA OFFICIAL BUSINESS - BLUE ANACAPA EVENTS - RED
Please check the Corte Bella website for updated information on availability of the following events. We value our residents health and lean on the side of caution.
INTEREST GRPS/CLUBS - BLACK 12 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
26
Licensed | Bonded | Insured
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Interior/Exterior More than 20 years of experience Drywall /LStucco Repair Wrought Iron Fences “CORTE BELLA’S Accent Walls PAINTING EXPERTS” Garage Doors Acrylic Deck Repainting Call, text or email us to schedule a free quote ROC 324657
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(623) 374-4711
Faucet Doctor Plumbing & Air Conditioning
623-214-7161
Complete Air Conditioning Service, Install or Repair Water Heaters, Water Softeners, Slab Leaks, Toilets, Faucets, Main Water Line Repair or Replacement, Circulating Pumps, Disposals, Bathroom Remodels, All irrigation Services, HVAC New Install Service and Repair Licensed/Bonded/Insured ROC License 169411\306306
PORA/SCHOA/BBB Listed Greg Singletary
December 2020 | CB Times | 13
CULINARY
Anacapa Executive Chef Dan Haywood
A Truly Mouth-Watering Recipe You Must Try. Citrus Glazed Pork Tenderloins – Charred Tomatillo Salsa – Candied Butternut Squash and Crows Dairy Goat Cheese Instructions:
Pat the pork dry with a paper towel and set aside. Combine the tarragon, coriander, ginger, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub the spice mixture onto all sides of the pork. Carefully oil grill. Place pork on grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently to brown and cook on all sides. Cut tomatillos in half; place on hot grill, cut side down and brown nicely with the pork for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside Cook pork to internal temperature of 145 degrees. (Transfer to oven to finish, if you wish to finish cooking.) Move the pork off the grill or from the oven and let rest while you make the glaze and salsa.
To make the Glaze:
Sprinkle sugar in a small skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until dark amber, for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and whisk in the juice, vinegar, tarragon, ginger, marmalade and zest. Return to medium-low heat and boil until thick, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes. Remove pan from the heat and whisk in the butter. Set aside.
To make the Butternut Squash:
Heat butter in a skillet; add seasoning and brown sugar. Stir until bubbly and combined. Add Butternut squash. Cook covered or put in oven for 20-30 minutes until tender.
To make the Salsa and how to plate:
Dice up the tomatillos. Add all other ingredients except the cheese. Slice the pork loin. Arrange squash and sliced pork on 4 plates. Spoon glaze over the top. Garnish with salsa and cheese, and serve immediately.
14 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Pork and Marinade:
1 pounds pork tenderloin (1 1/2 to 1 ¾ lb.) 1 teaspoon dried tarragon 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, crushed 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Glaze:
2 tablespoons sugar 1/2 cup grapefruit juice 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 1/4 teaspoon dried tarragon 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger 1 tablespoon orange marmalade 1 teaspoon grapefruit zest 1 tablespoon butter
Tomatillo Salsa
8 tomatillos 2 Tbsp cilantro ½ red pepper, chopped 2 limes, juiced 1 Tbsp sugar 1 green onion, chopped 4 Tbsp Crows Dairy Goat Cheese, crumbled
Candied Butternut Squash: 2lb Butternut Squash 8 oz butter 8 oz brown sugar 1 tsp cinnamon ½ tsp nutmeg 2 pinches of ground cloves
Day Spa
December Spa Specials!
The
The Salvation Army’s Christmas Angel tree will be at the Corte Bella Fitness Center from Saturday, November 14 to Monday, December 14.
Treat yourself Or a loved one to a Spa Treatment!
Two 60 minute treatments $122 Or Two 90 minute treatments $167 Massages: Swedish or Therapeutic Facials: Corte Bella Signature (customizable)
2nd Appointment/Service must be completed within 30 days from date of purchase.
Aromatherapy Massage
$89, $85
Enhance your massage experience with soothing and stimulating aromatic scents. Choose from lavender, lemon, and Ylang Ylang to name a few!
Phytomer Products
20% off
All Phytomer products are on sale - 20% off. Stock up for the season on your favorite facial creams, exfoliant and toners.
Pick an Angel from the tree which will include the name and age of each child in need in the Phoenix area and a list of that child’s Christmas dream gifts! Bring your unwrapped gifts for that “Angel” with the original Angel tag attached and place it under the tree by December 14! Help make a child’s Christmas dream come true!
Spa Blends Body Butters, 6 oz $21 Corte Bella Embroidered Robes $74
Gift Certificates Available! Call (623) 217-2018
Offers valid December 1-31, 2020. Full payment must be rendered at time of first appointment. 2nd service must be completed within 30 days from date of purchase.
ANACAPA RESTAURANT
Seasons Greetings from the Anacapa staff and best wishes for 2021 Anacapa is open for in-house and ANACAPA RESTAURANT: patio dining for all customers. Please Phone: 623-455-9045 call the restaurant reservations desk Hours: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Days: Tuesday – Saturday with any questions.
Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays
The Anacapa features daily specials in addition to the standard a la carte menu. There is something for everyone to enjoy. Please refer to the Corte Bella website for additional details or call the Anacapa reception desk for any questions. • Enjoy Sunday Breakfast with wonderful a la carte offerings from 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon. • The Corte Bella Christmas Tree will be lighted for the season on Thursday, December 3rd at 6:30 PM. Make your dinner reservations now. • Make your reservations now for the Anacapa’s Christmas Eve dinner. This is always a magical evening for all. Reserve your table by calling 623-455-9045. Seating is limited. No lunch service on this date. • Make your plans to dine at the Anacapa for New Year’s Eve and enjoy a wonderful meal to usher out this year and welcome in 2021. Reserve your table by calling 623-455-9045. Seating is limited. No lunch service on this date.
The Anacapa is open for all patrons for in-house dining and for residents only for curbside delivery Call 623-455-9045 to make reservations and for take-out orders. Open Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM and on Sunday from additional information. 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon. Closed Sunday evenings and Mondays.
December 2020 | CB Times | 15
CULINARY
Home for the Holidays! Wine Pairings for the Holiday Season Deborah Damery Lazear, CSW “Home for the Holidays” this year may mean only you and your spouse are at the table. At best, a couple of friends or family from within your “bubble” will be with you. Very different times we live in at the moment. None the less, we can make the holiday feasts special, no matter the number of imbibers. Start your celebration with a Cranberry-Ginger Sparkling wine punch. A great recipe includes star anise, cinnamon sticks, vanilla bean pod, cranberry juice, vanilla brandy, sparkling wine, and frozen cranberries for a beautiful bowl and a lower alcohol beverage. Turkey with all the flavorful sides will pair well with a wine of lower alcohol (13.5 - 14%), fruit-forward flavor, and a good trace of acid. I recommend Pinot Gris Yamhill-Carlton from Oregon for the white wine. If you prefer red, Pinot Noir is my top drop from Oregon Eola-Amity Hills. Thinking outside the box, consider a Beaujolais Cru from France. The grape is Gamay and has that fresh fruit on the nose and in the glass that makes your turkey gobble.
body and big bold fruity flavor. Lodi and Paso Robles have some wonderful examples. Not everyone likes turkey. Consider a show stopper crown roast of pork. This would pair well with Pinot Noir (again!) or Malbec from Argentina. Vegetarians will be delighted with a whole roasted pumpkin stuffed with rice, coconut, curry, green beans and cilantro served with a California oak-aged Chardonnay. Use pie pumpkins or Long Island cheese pumpkins. AJ’s grocery store usually has both. This is the season to be thankful for our harvest and to enjoy a bountiful table in December too, so why not a vegetable paella? Search for the perfect rice; Bomba from Spain is terrific. Alternatively, use arborio rice, which is readily available in the super market. Mix the cooked rice with fall’s root vegetables and zucchini, pepper and eggplant for freshness. Pair it with a red Spanish Tempranillo or a white Albariño.. I am grateful for all our friends here in Corte Bella and I raise my glass to you. A vicarious celebration! Cheers!
Want something different for your Prime Rib? How about a Petit Syrah? There is nothing “petite” about this bottle; it is full of
16 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Clayton Spangler, Cheerfully Confident Anacapa Employee of the Month There’s a delightful young man working as a busser in the Anacapa these days. His name is Clayton William Spangler and he lights up the room, even behind the face mask he’s required to wear. He has a great attitude and a quiet confidence that helps him provide excellent service to all Anacapa patrons. His ginger-colored hair and his athletic appearance make him standout too. Clayton was born in 2003 in the Phoenix area. He is a senior at Shadow Ridge High School and will graduate in May of 2021. Clayton has an older brother and older sister. His father works as an exterminator and his mother is employed by a long term care facility in Human Resources. Clayton plays third base and catcher on his school’s baseball team and is also on the school’s golf team. He shoots a respectable 8 over par. (Note: The team has used the Corte Bella course for their practice sessions this year.) Clayton’s sister is employed by the Anacapa as a receptionist and he learned about the busser position through her. This is his first job and he is enjoying it very much. He appreciates the customers and is thrilled with what he learns from his interactions every day. Clayton feels like his job has landed him in a great community and with a wonderful team. He really loves coming to work and that fact that something new is always happening. He will take away from this experience the knowledge of how to work with others and promote the team as well as the selfconfidence that comes with working with the public. Long range planning is something Clayton seems to do well. He plans to attend trade school in the area and become a licensed electrician. He’s always liked to work with his hands growing up alongside his father. Clayton has a serious girlfriend for three years going and he would like to see them get married.
The virus pandemic changed how his senior year developed and he was not a fan of the online, distance learning. He’s glad to be back in the classroom. He missed the competition with other schools that he would have normally had in baseball and golf. Through all of this difficulty, he remains positive and hopeful for his future. He’s a fine example of American youth and their resilience. Keep smiling and working hard, Clayton, and you will go far in your life.
Our assisted living is accredited for two reasons. You. And your family. Because having the confidence and peace of mind of accreditation is important. We think you’ll find that our CARF accreditation is just one of the many reasons to take a good look at The Heritage senior living community.
Call 623.552.7858 to schedule a personalized tour.
19303 N. New Tradition Road • Sun City West TheHeritageSeniorLiving.com • 623.552.7858 C AR F-ACC R ED ITED I N D EPEN D ENT & A S S ISTED LIVI N G R E S I D EN C E S
December 2020 | CB Times | 17
COMMITTEES
Corte Bella Budget Comparison Report Joel Block, Finance Chair and Kathy Carmickle, Treasurer
Month & YTD September 30, 2020 Results of Operations Assessments: Income
Favorable to Budget Unfavorable to Budget Actual
Budget
Variance
YTD Actual
YTD Budget
Variance
200,200
200,063
137
1,801,389
1,800,565
820
Administration: Net
54,399
63,808
9,409
519,155
570,672
51,517
Facilities: Expense
68,990
84,124
15,134
540,401
687,248
146,847
Guardhouse: Expense
12,895
15,812
(2,917)
140,787
142,308
(1,521)
(25)
907
(932)
4,426
26,163
(21,737)
29,276
28,567
709
286,948
294,603
(10,655)
(29,302)
(12,796)
(16,506)
(243,631)
(71,936)
(171,695)
1,964
(66)
2,030
18,679
22,906
(4,227)
Fitness: Net
(19,331)
(15,041)
(4,290)
(121,464)
(130,369)
8,905
Results of Operations
(12,053)
(19,245)
7,192
(27,894)
50,503
22,609
HOA Events: Net Landscape: Expense Restaurant: Net Spa: Net
* Net after Departments is used when the Department has Revenue and Expenses. Favorablen to Budget by $22.6K YTD Departments favorable to budget: • Administration - $51.5K • Facilites - $147K • Fitness - $9K • Guardhouse - $1.5K • Landscape - $10.6K
Departments unfavorable to budget: • HOA Events - $21.8 - Covid 19 • Restaurant - $172K - Covid 19 • Spa - $ 4.2K - Covid 19
WHERE HAVE OPERATING ASSESSMENTS GONE YEAR-TO-DATE THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2020 Assmt $’s Spent Per Lot/% Allocation per Department
Dollar Am't
AS A %
ADMINISTRATION: NET
$314.64
28.80
FACILITIES: NET
$327.52
30.00
GUARDHOUSE: EXPENSE
$85.32
7.82
HOA EVENTS: NET
-$2.68
-0.25
LANDSCAPE: EXPENSE
$173.90
15.92
RESTAURANT: NET
$147.65
13.25
SPA: NET
-$11.32
-1.03
FITNESS: NET
$73.61
6.74
TOTAL: SURPLUS/(DEFICIT)
$16.90
1.55
18 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
A Community Reminder Chris McGee, ARC Vice Chair and Homeowner Fall in Corte Bella is a great time to take a look at your curbside appearance. Small tweaks and light investments can really move the needle in terms of increasing property values and attracting quality homeowners to the neighborhood. Walk across the street and take a good look at your property. What will others see when they first pull up? Be hypercritical. Someone new to the property may notice flaws that you’ve grown accustomed to over time. •
The exterior of your home may need a fresh coat of paint if there are stucco cracks, the paint has faded, or there are splotchy walls. Depending on the orientation of your lot, we recommend painting every 6-7 years.
•
Take a look at your mailbox, coach lights, trash can lid, fence, and gates. Is it time to freshen up the paint?
•
Are your hoses tucked into a container so they aren’t seen by neighboring properties or the street?
•
Are your planter pots still in good shape?
•
Is your landscape appropriately maintained?
Remember, each time you perform work (even when painting the same color scheme or simply hanging artwork) or if you will be making a change on the exterior of your property (including courtyards and back patios), you’ll need to complete a project submission form and send it to the HOA office. Depending on the scope of work to be performed, the Architectural Review Committee (ARC) may review and respond throughout the week, or your submission may be reviewed at the committee’s monthly meeting. Getting approval before you do the work will sure save you from frustration later should you make an unapproved change. Corte Bella carries an enviable reputation of being a guard gated, lush and green, beautiful golf course community. Our property values continue to appreciate because we all take pride in our appearance. Thank you for all that you do to maintain your property!
Corte Bella Resident Home-Based Services CB Web Team
Corte Bella is blessed not only with beautiful landscaping and wonderful year-round weather, it is also home to some very talented and very useful entrepreneurs who provide a wealth of services right here in our neighborhood. All are just a click away on the Resident Home-Based Services page on the Corte Bella website. Currently, the website lists forty (40) home-
based services from pet-sitting services to CPAs to handyman services, to painting services, to notary publics, to travel services and much, much more. These are your friends and neighbors, and all have provided excellent service to Corte Bella over the years. Before you let your fingers do the walking through the yellow pages for a service, check out what’s available locally and support these local businesses. For new residents: If you have a home-based service to offer please consider running an ad on the Resident Home-Based Services page on the Corte Bella website. The web support team will be happy to assist you in developing a personalized web page to be linked to your business card on the services page.
The Resident Home-Based Services web page can be found under the Stay Connected tab on the main menu.
December 2020 | CB Times | 19
COMMUNITY
Corte Bella Vets Happenings Karen R. Starkman Once again, the holidays are upon us. As many of us look forward to spending them with family and friends, we are reminded of our homeless veterans, those in VA Homes, VA Hospitals, Transitional Housing and/or suffering with depression, PTSD, and traumatic brain injuries. This year certainly has been an incredibly challenging one due to the COVID-19 pandemic and having to deal with a “new norm” such as social distancing, face mask wearing, and increased isolation from our loved ones. As we continue to prepare for the expected increase in Veteran and Veterans’ family’s needs, we want to thank-you for your past and continued support of our fundraising and soldier-support events. Information regarding all our fundraisers and the opportunity to purchase tickets, gift cards, and wine will be available on our website at www.corteblellavets.org. Also, continue to watch for Corte Bella Community e-mail blasts.
SOuL’s Holiday Boutique Date: Saturday, December 5 Time: 9:00 AM to 12 Noon Place: Cul-de-sac at W, Micheltorena Court
Planned fundraisers for 2021 include our 2021 March 21st 7th annual golf tournament and our 2021 Monte Carlo Night on February 27th. These two fundraisers will continue to focus on ending Veteran homelessness, suicide prevention, and treating PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. Please do not forget about our delicious HoneyBaked Ham Campaign which will run thru April 2021. HoneyBaked Ham Co. will donate 20% of the gift card’s value to the Corte Bella Vets. Again this year, the Corte Bella Vets will be working with the SunDome Merchants in support of their Angel Tree Program for Veterans. Trees will be placed in front of several business from November 15 thru December 15, 2020. Gifts collected will be delivered to Mary Ellen’s Place, James Walton Home, VA Community Center in Phoenix, and the VA Hospital in Prescott. Note that we will not be collecting and mailing packages to deployed soldiers this holiday season. The Corte Bella Vets wish our Corte Bella Community Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year.
Presenting the 2020 Christmas SOuL Swag
Decorating our Community Together One Mailbox at a Time! A fundraising effort from Smiling Out Loud (SOuL), Corte Bella’s Ladies Charity Support Group Cost $25.00 per swag
Smiling Out Loud (SOuL) will again have a delightful holiday boutique for you to enjoy. There will be wonderful vendors bringing a delightful selection of gifts and goodies to help complete your gift shopping. Please plan to attend our annual fundraising event that’s always a wonderful part of the Holiday Season at Corte Bella. All proceeds go directly to the support of local organizations and charities. Parking will be limited. Please plan to carpool with friends or drive your golf cart. This year there will not be a bake sale.
Note: There are other samples with different ribbon colors to choose from in addition to the swag pictured. To order please contact: EILEEN GOW
623-398-4077
egow@hsmove.com SOuL hopes to spread “Christmas Cheer” along the beautiful streets of Corte Bella. Join SOuL to promote hope and the joy of the season. All proceeds go to supporting local charities and organizations!
Precautions to safeguard the health and safety of everyone will be practiced at all times during the event.
20 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Freedom Plaza Residents
leave the holiday decorating to us...
and the shopping, serving and clean-up of daily fine dining to us, too. Residents enjoy Holiday entertainment by the light of our Tree and Menorah in our Grand Lobby or any of the other twenty amenity areas under one roof - all without needing to go outside in December chill.
You can enjoy this active independent senior living lifestyle knowing that higher levels of living, including Medicare-certified skilled nursing and rehab, are all available on our campus. Year-end discounts of $ 10K off select floorplans still available with 2019 pricing held through December 2021.
Come visit to see our two-story Christmas tree in the Grand Lobby.
Pet Friendly
A Life Plan Community 13373 N Plaza del Rio Blvd, Peoria, AZ 85381
Call 623-815-4015 to schedule your visit and for more information www.freedomplazaarizona.com
Following CDC guidelines, we have taken extraordinary steps to protect the health and well-being of our community and guests
COMMUNITY
Patrick and Donna Folan, Jewels of Corte Bella If there’s a Corte Bella event going on that needs resident support, chances are good that Patrick and Donna are involved. This couple has been contributing to what makes Corte Bella special ever since moving here permanently in 2011. They have a very special personal story. Patrick was born in Connemara, Ireland, the second of nine children. At age 15 ½, he traveled to London and lived there for ten years. He spoke only Gaelic when he arrived and had to learn English. Patrick found a job as a laborer (quite dangerous work in those days). During those years, he walked across the London Bridge going to the dances in Camden Town. (Side note: Patrick visited Lake Havasu, Arizona so he could again walk over the London Bridge.) Patrick married a Irish school friend while in London and they had three children there. Patrick came to the USA in 1970 to work for his brother-in-law in Boston, and soon thereafter brought his family here (the fourth child was born there). After 6 ½ years, Patrick moved his family to San Diego, California and then on to the San Francisco Bay area. In 2000, Patrick was widowed. He became a union member carpenter working throughout the bay area and retired from Overaa Construction after 17 years. He remembers his father working as a type of stone mason in his village and feels he learned to work with his hands watching his father’s labor in the rocky fields of Ireland. Patrick has two sisters and one brother living in Ireland plus a brother in England and another brother in Australia. Donna was born in Vallejo, California and went to high school and community college there. She was working as an office manager for a veterinary practice and went looking for something more challenging. She began her real estate career in 1977, getting her license in short time. Her father was a general contractor in Vallejo and she was already plugged into the real estate market. She volunteered serving on the YMCA Board, as chairperson for the Vallejo 4th of July parade and chair of the Little League World Series parade. She also served as Chief Ambassador for Vallejo Chamber of Commerce for 2 1/2 years and then as Divisional Vice President for the Chamber’s Board of Directors. She was the liaison to both the City of Vallejo and the Mare Island Naval Base. She worked on the Annual North Bay Regional Solano Wine and Food Jubilee and, in 1988, was presented the prestigious Athena Award, given out to honor women in business. This couple’s story begins in 2002 when Donna sold Patrick a house in Suisun. They began dating that year and were married in November of 2004. It’s said that Patrick told his mother that Donna came with the house she sold to him! That year, they decided to finish work on a house that Patrick had in Spiddeal, County Galway in Ireland. They arrived to no electricity, running water, no kitchen facilities and no furniture. They moved into the house after working for three weeks. With
two sawhorses, a plank of plywood and a hotplate, they lived there with a working fireplace and a supply of turf to burn. The house has been upgraded and they returned there for Christmas in 2004, 2005 and 2007. They’ve been back for multiple other visits and have traveled throughout Ireland. Donna recalls that in 2007, Patrick brought home a donkey named Baker. The donkey escaped and was found in a water-filled gully. After being rescued, the donkey had to be kept warm, so he spent the night in their laundry room. Donna had a brother working in the Surprise area and they came for a Thanksgiving visit. Several of Donna’s former real estate contacts were living in Sun City West and in 2005, they brought them to see Corte Bella. Donna and Patrick knew that this was the place for their retirement. They felt it immediately when driving through the front gates; they knew they were “home”. Patrick loves his Irish roots but he appreciates his adopted country. He became a naturalized citizen in 1979. He’s very
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Support the Salvation Army Angel Tree Please Be Generous... Continue Corte Bella’s Tradition of Giving, Caring and Sharing... Corte Bella residents have shown overwhelming generosity by providing Christmas gifts for the many disadvantaged children in the west valley of Phoenix for many years. The Salvation Army Angel tags are on the special Christmas tree in the Fitness Center from November 14th and it will remain there until December 14th. These tags have a child’s name, age and a wish-list of gifts provided by that child or their parent. Donated gifts should be put under the Christmas tree, unwrapped, with the original Angel tag attached by the end of the day on December 12th. The Salvation Army will take care of wrapping and delivering the donated gifts to each child’s family. Your generosity is most appreciated by the Salvation Army and by the underprivileged children you are so kindly supporting. Last year, Corte Bella donated more bicycles and wonderful items
like sports equipment, clothing and educational items (books and art supplies). The Sun Cities Salvation Army West Valley Corps was so very grateful to all of you. While you help out during the Holiday Season, please be aware that the Salvation Army continues to aid the needy members of our community throughout the year. The Salvation Army will pick up household items you might like to donate and will accept donated items at their facility in Surprise. The Salvation Army is always looking for volunteers. The Sun Cities Salvation Army West Valley Corps is located at 17420 Avenue of the Arts in Surprise (just off Bell Road on the Avenue of the Arts) and their phone contact number is 623-977-1084.
Who’s There? Ask Agnes Doorbells wear out. I believe every home here in Corte Bella has (or had) the AIPHONE chime/ intercom as the original doorbell device. Some may have been changed by an owner after the original failed, but they can be restored to their original condition with a completely new unit.
We purchased ours on Amazon. It’s the AIPHONE CCS-1A as pictured in the photo. The install requires only a screwdriver. I removed the screws that held the unit to the wall and took a picture of the wiring as it was with my phone for reference. I then reconnected all the wiring to the new unit, (the wire connectors can be reused) and screwed it back into the wall). I followed the same procedure for the outside; detach, photo for reference, reattach. Easy, peasy. Now I can speak with the visitor before opening the door, and I feel more comfortable about that.
Patrick and Donna Folan continued... grateful to this country that allowed him to learn and practice a trade, and a union that gave him a good retirement. He would like to return to Ireland in 2021 if at all possible and visit his houses and his family there. He knows how important it is to protect his health, and he’s been doing that during this pandemic.
sticking close to home, doing lots of reading, watching television, using food-takeout delivery services and keeping in touch with friends and family via ZOOM. Patrick remains an active gardener at the Benevilla community garden where he grows a little bit of everything.
Donna remains enthusiastic about her Corte Bella life. She enjoys being actively involved in using her organizational talents and her creativity to help in any way she can with community activities. She likes to work behind the scenes to use her volunteer experience to make community life better in Corte Bella. Donna would love to travel to Italy in 2021 and take a road trip to see her brother in Seattle, Washington.
Patrick and Donna look forward to having more normalized community activities but they understand the need for caution and patience. Meanwhile, they try their best to avoid the virus, to remain hopeful and grateful for all their blessings, and to remember the promise of each new day.
During this virus pandemic, Patrick and Donna have been
Corte Bella is filled with many wonderful people. Patrick and Donna are two of the very finest living here in the jewel of the northwest valley.
December 2020 | CB Times | 23
COMMUNITY
Corte Bella Adventure Group Steve Downing I would argue that the Corte Bella Adventure Group promotes healthy aging. Element3 Health identifies Physical Activity, Social Activity and Mental Activity as 3 major components of healthy aging. Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Studies have shown that social connections are closely related to well-being and personal happiness. Lastly, the more mental stimulation we get, the more likely we are to hold on to better brain-functioning as we age. As a Corte Bella group, our hikes and other activities, provide an approach which helps on the physical, social and mental activity. Obviously, the hikes involve conditioning and can often feel very much like exercise, heavy breathing and increased heart rate. The exercise, however, is mitigated by the conversations taking place, the beauty of our surroundings, and the occasional breaks along the trail. More often than not, we meet for a meal at the end of a hike or other activity. As a matter of fact, the subject of where we are going to eat will come up somewhere along the trail. This is our opportunity for great conversation and getting to know other Corte Bella Resident hikers. This socialization extends beyond just hike days to forever friendships. Now I don’t know if I can say it takes much mental activity to hike. What I can attest to is that I’ve met many very intelligent men and women in our hiking group. I am constantly amazed at their accomplished lives and history. I like to believe we learn from each other. Remaining inquisitive and always striving to learn something we did not know previously.
The Corte Bella Adventure Group prepare to enter in to the Wilderness Area. November hikes took us to Woodchute Trail, Vulture Peak, Skyline Regional Park and Turkey Creek. For December, we will be traveling to Spur Cross Trail 252, and Bob Fletcher will be taking the group to Lake Pleasant Yavapai Trail and Browns Ranch. We still have bike rides on Sunday Mornings and Rich Lowe has a shorter route he does on Thursdays. Times change depending on the seasonal temperatures so please check with a group member on the current starting time. Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! Looking out over the Redrock in Sedona with Humphreys Peak on the horizon. Humphrey’s Peak is the highest peak hin Arizona at 12,633 feet.
24 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
What’s Happening in Corte Bella Anacapa Haunted Happy Hour Thursday, October 29
The Anacapa was decorated in Halloween style with cobwebs (not real), pumpkins, and more. The entire staff dressed in their Skeleton Crew attire with glow-in-the-dark shirts. The kitchen created spooky foods for all to enjoy, and the bartenders delighted everyone with some very creative cocktails. The Poison Apple Martini was a hit with the dry ice that had bubbles and steam rising from the blood-red liquid. It was delicious. There were costume contests and a pumpkin “illustrating” contest with prizes. Sandy Harris won best costume for her beautiful but scary witch’s outfit. Barb Shirley grabbed the prize for the best decorated pumpkin, and Elizabeth Pridmore walked away with the closest guess on the number of chocolate balls in the Great Pumpkin. Great fun and many kudos to the Anacapa staff and kitchen for all their hard work to make this delightful evening happen.
Food Truck Mondays 1st Night Monday, November 2
Burgers Amore brought their food truck to Corte Bella, and the community responded enthusiastically. The lines were long, but many folks were quite pleased with their food purchase despite the wait. Golf carts and cars filled the parking lot, and folks carefully wore masks and enjoyed the beautiful November sunset while they waited to order and receive their cooked burger, hot dogs and French fries. Corte Bella will welcome different food trucks every Monday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Chanukah – A Timeless Celebration Judy Rischall Chanukah celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple of Jerusalem over 2,000 years ago. In order to rededicate the Temple, the Maccabees built a new alter and made a new menorah. When they went to light the menorah, they realized they only had enough pure olive oil to last for one day. But the lamp kept burning for eight nights, and this was considered a miracle. Here is where the eight days of celebration originates. A menorah, the Hebrew word for lamp, has nine branches, one each night for the Festival of Lights, plus a Shamash (helper) which is lit first and then used to light the other candles. Growing up in a small town in Michigan, my parents always made this holiday special for my brother and for me. On eight nights, we each received a small gift on each of those nights. One tradition is to give gold coins called “gelt.” These could be real silver dollars or chocolate coins wrapped in gold. We also decorated
our home to celebrate the holiday. We won the award for the best decorated home. Then, it was on to potato latkes (pancakes) served with applesauce or sour cream and jelly-filled doughnuts. Since the Chanukah miracle involved oil, it’s customary to eat foods fried in oil. Later it was time to play a game with the “dreidel” (four sided top bearing Hebrew letters). We played for a pot of coins or other small presents. To pass on these traditions, and to make the holiday more meaningful for our children, we had them take turns lighting the candles. Chanukah was always a very special and fun time in our home. Please feel free to join us on Thursday, December 10th, for the lighting of the Menorah in the Anacapa.
December 2020 | CB Times | 25
COMMUNITY
Walkabout Night San Ramon Stringers Walkabout Night will be Friday, December 4th, on San Ramon Drive. This is an annual tradition at Corte Bella, which began ten years ago with the Salvation Army Corps’ Red Kettle. That year donations were just under $1,500. Since then, the number of decorated houses has increased to nearly fifty; the number of lights on each house has increased dramatically and the total Red Kettle donations have increased by tenfold! Last year, donations totaled $14,615! We hope to beat that amount this year – in just one night of collections. The Christmas decorations take about three to four weeks to assemble. For many residents and their guests, this event marks the beginning of the Christmas Season. Homeowners enjoy doing it, and they hope everyone comes by to see the display. The Salvation Army Corps’ Red Kettle will be prominently positioned at the beginning of the walk. Come prepared to make a donation and make this evening your official start of your Christmas season. Join friends and neighbors and enjoy this eyepopping holiday display with over a million lights and decorations. Walking is encouraged but with “social distancing” please, and masks are suggested. Vehicles and golf carts are also permitted. This is the single largest Corte Bella holiday event and will be attended by hundreds of residents and their guests.
Our goal is to exceed last year’s collection of $14,615. If you cannot attend Walkabout Night but would like to donate, make your check payable to “Salvation Army” and mail before Dec 4th to: Stringers, 23026 N. San Ramon Drive, SCW, 85375 or give it to one of the San Ramon residents to be put into the Red Kettle on Walk-About-Night. With all we faced in 2020 since March, this will be a bright and positive way to end the year. Please join us.
26 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Birds in Paradise (Part 12) Jeanne Gowan & Nate Gowan Cool weather has finally arrived. Have you ever wondered how birds stay warm during the cold winter months? It requires solving two problems simultaneously. The first is maintaining a normal body temperature — generally about 105°F for birds. The second problem is finding enough food. For most birds, food supplies become greatly reduced in winter just when food is most required as fuel for keeping them warm. To make and maintain enough heat, birds have evolved many different strategies. Birds shiver to stay warm just like people. However, birds have much a higher metabolic rate and burn more energy to stay warm. A steady supply of food is essential; for example, Chickadees eat more than 35 percent of their weight every day!
American Kestrel Similar to people who may cuddle for warmth, small birds like Tree Swallows crowd together in shrubs, vines, and evergreen trees to share body heat. Cavity nesters like Nuthatches and Woodpeckers use tree cavities and nest boxes to stay warm. Big birds, like geese and ducks, put on insulation growing an extra set of downy feathers.
Greater Roadrunner A bird’s first layer of defense against the cold is its feathers. People love down-filled winter coats because feathers are fantastic insulation. A bird’s body heat warms the air between its feathers, so birds fluff up in the cold to trap as much air in their feathers as possible. (see photos)
When nighttime temperatures drop, birds must rely on every adaptation they have to survive. Some birds save energy by allowing their internal thermostat to drop. Hummingbirds are a famous example of this, undergoing torpor nightly as their body temperature drops close to outside temperatures. Fortunately, Corte Bella’s weather provides an ideal haven for birds’ winter struggles. So keep those binoculars handy. You should continue to enjoy birding during this season. Photos by Nate Gowan
Your Corte Bella Garden in December Deborah “Ladybug” Lazear
•
It’s not too late to plant pansies.
•
Plant kohlrabi, lettuce, and onion seedlings.
• •
Hose aphids off roses.
Enjoy the Holiday Season! Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!
Sow seeds for chives, collard greens, fennel, green onions, beets, and parsnips.
December 2020 | CB Times | 27
HEALTH & FITNESS
Corte Bella Pickleball News Mary Blome The weather has finally cooled down, allowing us die-hard players to sleep in a little and play later into the morning. As you can see from the photos, we are using all eight courts and have people waiting to play (for just a little sense of normalcy). Corte Bella Pickle Ball Club currently has 216 members. We are holding monthly Beginners Clinics for anyone interested in learning some basics about Pickle Ball and how to play. There’s a calendar posted in the glass case located between the tennis and pickle ball courts. If interested, please reach out to Kay Mueller at kay_mueller45@yahoo.com.
Meet Gail:
Hello, my name is Gail Levy, and I was fortunate enough to be elected to the Pickleball Board as a member at large. Upon retirement, my husband, Marc, and I moved to Corte Bella, just less than 2 years ago from Chicago. My background is in sales working for an industrial distributor specializing in metal working. I have a 28-year-old son, Jacob, who still resides in the Chicagoland area. Pickleball is my passion, and anyone who knows me can attest to that. I encourage everyone to partake in the fun, and I look forward to seeing you on the courts.
Corte Bella Golf Club News Tyson Siegler, Membership Director
The golf course came through the overseed process wonderfully, and we are looking forward to another memorable winter season. All of us here at the golf club would like to wish the residents of Corte Bella a happy and healthy holiday season and a great new year. I’m sure we have all had enough of 2020!
28 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Corte Bella Tennis Club News – A Little History Donna Norton Years ago, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) saw merit in the way golf handicapped players based on their ability to get the ball in the hole with the least number of strokes. So, the USTA started to divide players based on their ability to get the ball across the net with pace, direction, and accuracy. The system devised put players into various categories based on the criteria with beginner rankings at 1.25 all the way to 7.0 for touring players. The Corte Bella West Valley Ladies Teams are made up of 3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 players. The season is just beginning, and we welcome anyone interested in playing with us. The 4.0 team created in 2004 was initially set up by combining “Corte Bella & Trilogy” to amass enough players for weekly three court doubles matches. As the Trilogy community continued to build out, they were able to establish their own teams, while Corte Bella remained small but vibrant. Today, Mary Nasca (Corte Bella) and Sue Olson (Trilogy) represent the last of the original team. They value their friendship from over the years and have enjoyed many hours on the court with various ladies from all over the west valley. Left to Right: Sue Olson, Mary Nasca
December 2020 | CB Times | 29
SOCIAL CLUB CLUB & INTEREST GROUPS
Activities
Day of Week
Social Rooms
Time
Place
Contact Person
Bid Whist
2nd Fri.
7–10 PM
Social Hall
Kaye France
CB Quilters
2nd Friday
Varies
Bacara Room
Lana Henn Barbara Thomason
Contact Info 623-934-5051
lana@uwdawgs.com thomasonb@hotmail.com
CB Steppers Line Dance
1st & 3rd Thurs.
6–7:30 PM
Social Hall
Lynn Funk / Nancy Kronlund
623-670-0733 / 320-444-1642
CB Watercolor Enthusiasts
Varies
Varies
Social Hall
Deborah Lazear
deborahdlazear@gmail.com
Corte Bella Baggers
Thursday
4:00 PM (Summer 5:00 PM)
Anacapa Patio (Summer Social Hall)
Bill Mooney/Ruth Mooney
Bill / 816-244-2517 wmooney1945@gmail.com Ruth / 816-244-2914 rehmooney50@gmail.com
Corte Bella Chorus
Mon.
7 PM
Social Hall
Hilda Furkert
623-266-2733
Corte Bella Tai Chi Group
Mon/Tues Tues/Thurs
9:15 AM 8:00 AM
Stanza Room
Cathy Boorman
206-818-0860
Corte Bella Vets
2nd Tues.
Duplicate Bridge
Every Tue.
9:00–10:30 AM
12:30–4:30 PM
Anacapa
Social Hall
Dan Kurtenbach
The Jacobs
Friends of Italy
Varies
Varies
Social Hall
Keith Fowler
Hand & Foot Canasta
2nd & 4th Mon.
6–8:45 PM
Social Hall
Charlotte Spellman / Jill Grant
Wednesday
5:30 PM
Ladies Hi Tea
LGBTQ Group of Corte Bella
Mah Jongg
Men’s Christian Group
Open Bridge
Poker Club
Ryan’s Case for Smiles
Mon./Thu.
Tue.
Every Thu.
1st Wed. each month
2nd Wed
Smiling Out Loud (SOuL)
3rd Thu.
West Valley Photo Club
4th Tues
Ya Ya Sisterhood Canasta
Mon. & Fri.
Usually Meets in Members’ Homes Bunco
Bunco Afternooners
1st Tue.
2nd Mon.
Canadians CB Book Lovers Club
CB Open Jam Group
Cellar Dwellers Wine Tasting
Christian Neighborhood Group
Corte Bella Car Club
2nd Tuesday
Varies
Varies
Tuesday Group
Varies
Hawaiian Music Club
Varies
The Kelly Players
Varies
Iowa Group
Pinochle: Single Deck
10 AM–3 PM
9–10 AM
1–4 PM
5–9 PM
1–4:30 PM
10:30 – 12:30 PM
5:30–6:30 Social 6:30–8:30 Meeting
12–4 PM
7-10 PM
Social Hall
Anacapa
Social Hall
Laguna Room
Social Hall
Social Hall
Social Hall
Janet Silver
Nancy Stevens
Jo Ann Moberly
Jim Dowen
Ann Webb
Todd Gerber
JoAnn Shaw
FOI_keith@msn.com
623-3884069 barrspell@cox.net 602-3095627 jillg4546@yahoo.com
623-337-4139
blanchmd@aol.com
623-328-9583
623-556-8137
623-594-4592
(602) 639-8839 toddgerber3@gmail.com
623-466-6223
Social Hall
Carla Smith
SOuL4u@yahoo.com
Social Hall
Joseph Berke
jberke@cox.net
Social Hall
Barb Morin
BMorin2@cox.net
Homes
Harriet Kessler
623-388-3731
1-3:30 PM
Homes
Cathy Emerson
623-518-3833
Call for Times
Various
The Mandells
623-374-3592
3:30 – 5:00 PM
Homes
7–9 PM
Homes
6:30 PM
Homes
Varies
Varies
Homes
Donna Norton
Greg Peck
Robin Mandell
Jerry and Gayle Moore
Howard Evans
donnaenorton@gmail.com
602-657-3950
623-374-3592
623-322-8190
howard.evans@cox.net
Varies
Homes
Susan Hoe
susan.hoe@cox.net
Varies
Homes
Catherine Kelly
crkjek@aol.com
Call for Times
Bob & Pam DeWaay
515-991-9166
6:00 PM
Homes
Darlene Schilf
darcats@gmail.com
Shalom Club
Call for Times
Homes
Judi Bourd
623-433-9449
Singles
Call for Times
Homes
Pat Kovecses Edina Geurink
623-337-3743 / pageko66@gmail.com 440-725-7277 / degeurink@cox.net
2nd Mon.
5:00 PM
Homes
Evie Hansen / Merrill Ewert
evie.hanson@gmail.com Merrill.Ewert@gmail.com
Team Couples
1st Friday
4:30 – 6:30 PM
Courts
Sandy Johnson
623-251-3829
Couples
4th Friday
5 – 7 PM
Courts
Shirley Williams
309-781-9848
World of Friends
3rd Sat
Call for Times
theresadan69@cox.net
623-217-2803
Sports Bocce Ball
Couples Couples
El Camino El Sueno
Las Palmas
Men’s Open San Ramon Golf Tennis
1st & 3rd Wed. 2nd & 4th Tue. 1st & 3rd Tue. Every Wed. 2nd Sun.
Every Mon.
Ready Golf Girls (RGG)
Thursday
4:30 – 6:30 PM 4 – 5:30 PM 6 – 8 PM 6 – 8 PM 5 – 7 PM 4 – 6 PM
5:30 – 8:30 PM
Courts Courts Courts Courts Courts Courts Courts
Bob Nasser
John / Barbara Wilson Dan Louden
Darrell Emerson David Keppy
Robert Broda
Carol Dobkins
Oct to Apr 9:00 AM; May to Sept 8:00 AM
Golf Club
Deanne Greco
Meet at Various Courses
Pat Cooper
TBA
623-256-6661 623-688-8338 623-328-9341 623-518-3833 623-455-8310 847-381-6165 623-266-9395 deanne@grfamily.net 303-718-9122 / patcooperheb@msn.com
Ladies’ Invitational 3.5/4.0
Every Tue.
8 – 10 AM
Courts
Ann Paulson
623-433-9973
Men’s 3.5
Thu. & Sat.
8:30 – 10:30 AM
Courts
Colleen Miller
503-869-4570
Ladies’ Invitational 3.5/4.0
Open
Hiking/Cycling
1st Sat.
Lady Putters
Men’s 4.0
Pickleball
3rd Friday
Open Play
Member Play
Adventure Club
Every Sat.
Every Thu.
Every Wed.
Mon., Wed., Fri.
Mon.-Sat.
Varies
9 – 11 AM 10:30 AM 7:00 PM
7:00 – 10:00 AM
7:00 – 10:00 AM
Varies
Courts Courts Courts Courts
Courts
Varies
30 | CB Times | The Official Community Magazine of Corte Bella
Robin Culley
Don Schneider Jack Shifman Ken Egide
Mary Blome
Steve Downing
623-444-5448 623-399-9640 623-518-4909 623-266-3820
602-690-9940
937-684-1733
December 2020 | CB Times | 31