January - Ventana Lakes

OBJECTIVIES:
Volunteerism
Leadership
Property
Maintenance
Objective
Decisions
Advance Value
Ventana Views
January 2015
Keeping Up Appearances
Landscape renovation is an important part of property improvement, adding to the curb
appeal of a community. Most first impressions of a community and its level of maintenance and
value are made from the street. Even with conscientious trimming and maintenance, all foundation
plantings get crowded after 5 years. That’s when it is time to renovate.
As trees and shrubs gradually grow older and bushier, they expand by sending up
new shoots at ground level, which develop into wide clumps of increasingly crowded
stems. This preponderance of thick, woody stems cause the plant to lose vitality and
become vulnerable to disease and insect attack.
Ventana Lakes’ foundation plantings are over 20 years old. It was a great surprise to learn
from our professional arborist that foundation plantings have a limited lifespan and should be
renovated after 15 years. Renovation involves cutting the oldest and thickest of the stems down to
ground level and removing them. The initial look is sparse or ugly, but come Spring, the period of
greatest plant growth, shrubs will emerge from dormancy and all systems are go. Cutting stems
back to the ground allows a new surge of energy to produce replacement shoots that vibrantly
arise from the crown of the shrub and give older shrubs a new lease on life.
There are some specific things to keep in mind when renovating landscaping, such as the
time of year, location, maturity, usefulness, health and safety in removal or major amendment of
the plant or area. There are several reasons for tree and shrub removal, usually involving damage
from storms, disease, maintenance concerns or sheer size issues. If the right trees have been
planted in the right places, they can remain much longer. It’s the close proximity to foundations,
walls and sidewalks that create an earlier need for foundation plant renovation work.
In years past, the Association’s contract landscaper attempted a renovation process.
Unfortunately the community was not properly educated on the process, and it was stopped based
on numerous resident complaints that the plants were being cut too much and the area looked
ugly.
So, when you see an area where the shrubs and trees look
pretty sparse and cut way down, remember this is a part of the
landscape renovation process. Come Spring, you will see better
looking and healthier plants.
“Wait till Spring, it will look beautiful”
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Committee Meeting Schedules
All Board of Directors Business
Meetings and Workshops, as well as
all Committee Meetings, are open to
the Membership. All Owners are
welcome and encouraged to attend
and participate. Only Executive
Meetings of the Board are closed,
pursuant to ARS §33-1804.
On pages 8 and 9, we list the group activities. Items
listed with a symbol $, indicate additional costs to
participate. Please contact the representative of the
activity for additional information.
The Board of Directors will meet for
their Monthly Workshop at 11am on
Wednesday, January 7. They will
meet for the Monthly Business
Meeting at 1:30pm on Wednesday,
January 21. Both of these meetings
will be held in the Yacht Club. All
Residents are welcome and
encouraged to attend all open
meetings.
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Community Connection
CODE OF CONDUCT
Ventana Lakes
Property Owners Association
10874 W. Chino Dr.
Sun City, AZ 85373
Hours of Operation
Mon.-Fri. 8:30am– 4:30pm
Administrative Office 623-566-6001
Evenings & Weekends
leave message at X20
Staff:
Facilities & Grounds Manager:
John Lunsford [email protected]
Administrative Manager:
Rhonda Alegria [email protected]
Events & Communications Coordinator:
Gale O’Leary [email protected]
The following condensed Code of Conduct Rule is
being provided as a reminder to everyone what is
acceptable behavior and language and that enforcement can be imposed for violating an established rule. For the full Code of Conduct Rule,
please review Rule 7. The Board of Directors supports enforcement of this rule and employees do
have the right to refuse service to anyone in violation of the Association Code of Conduct Rule.
1. All persons are to be courteous and respectful
of others at all times.
2. All persons shall refrain from profane, indecent, and/or abusive language or actions.
3. Physical or verbal abuse directed at any person
is forbidden.
4. No person shall harass or accost any other
person
Administrative Assistant:
Lorraine Benson [email protected]
Office Assistant:
Karen Carr [email protected]
Ventana Views:
[email protected]
Webmaster:
[email protected]
General Information:
[email protected]
Board Of Directors
(all phone numbers are 623 area code
unless otherwise indicated
President Lori Norris
[email protected] 878-9566
Vice President Ken Matz
[email protected] 271-7225
Secretary Pat Roark
[email protected] 748-9305
Treasurer Larry Englerth
[email protected] 374-4216
Director Carol Burris
[email protected] 825-8674
Director Anthony Fiore
[email protected] 572-3128
Director Chet Homan
[email protected] 255-5273
The Board of Directors does not endorse products,
services, or workmanship being advertised in the
Ventana Views and will never knowingly accept an
advertisement which is illegal or fraudulent. The
Board of Directors and Ventana Lakes POA
assumes no responsibility for any loss or hardship
(be it loss of life, property, equipment, bodily injury,
money, time or other) incurred directly or indirectly
by any person using any advertiser sourced in this
publication. If you as a reader have a question
about an ad and suspect that it might promote an
illegal or fraudulent activity, please contact the
Management Office to file a complaint; or check
with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud line
at
1-800-220-5424.
Feature Index
President Report
Treasurer Report
Events & Comm.Coordinator
Administrative Manager Report
Facilities Manager Report
Exercise Groups
Sports Groups
Cards & Games Groups
Craft Groups
Social Groups
Did You Know
Scribbler Story
Everyone has a Story
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President Report
Lori Norris, President
Let’s start the new year on a positive
note! How can we do that? It can be difficult
when half empty vs. half full mindsets compete,
and when negativity clashes with positive
intentions. Granted, there are things that need
to be repaired in our community, but look at
how much we have achieved already. Rome
was not built in a day, nor will Ventana Lakes
be fixed in a year. But, we will get better
results working together rather than against
and by communicating rather than
complaining. Please give staff a chance to
explain rather than chastising them for things
that are out of their control or things they are
unaware are happening.
Each day I start out with hope. I hope
that residents recognize their Board and staff
are making improvements that benefit the entire
community. They say the wheels of justice turn
slowly. Changing a negative mindset takes
even longer. But, negative attitudes can turn
positive, if one keeps an open mind to accept
change. When negativity prevails, progress is
slower and more costly in the long run. So,
rather than focus on the negative, I will expend
my energy in 2015 building on our positive
focusing on our plans to accomplishments and
focusing on our plans to accomplish even more
positive results.
I challenge and encourage you to do the
same. Raise your head and look around.
Recognize there are plans in place to address
our deficiencies and take pride in the things
that make living in this community enjoyable.
Work with, not against. The Board can’t do it
alone. We need staff and volunteers to mold
and shape our community into an even more
desirable place to live. Every resident can
make a difference. Whether you are house
bound, participate in events or are still working,
you can contribute to your community. Step
forward!
Please ask, don’t demand.
Disagreements do not have to be
confrontational. The Board and staff want to
hear your concerns and ideas, and we
appreciate receiving them in a calm and
professional manner. I care about our
community just as much as you do, if not more,
and I want to ensure its financial and structural
integrity. Will you help us grow? Here’s to a
new year moving forward together.
5
Treasurer Report
Larry Englerth,
Treasurer
Master Operations Account: (excludes
Activities and Reserve accounts) - Total
operational revenue was $1,343,034 through
the end of November with total expenditures
of $1,300,591 for the same time period. The
resulting operating surplus of $42,442 is
approximately $18,124 greater than the first
eleven months of 2013. The general outlook
for the operating account is favorable.
The Finance Committee completed work
on the 2015 Operations budget and submitted
its recommendation to the Board for approval.
The budget includes normal inflationary factors
along with maintenance issues, like long term
lake quality and landscaping improvements
that are not covered by the reserve account.
We express our thanks to the committee
members and the six individuals who
committed their personal time to complete
the research on various projects and issues.
Over the past months, we have increased
collection actions on past due accounts and
are pursuing all options legally available to the
Association. Of the thirteen accounts that
have significant balances, two paid in full, six
have entered and are fulfilling payment
arrangements, two entered payment
arrangements which they are not in
compliance (further legal action taken) and
three have not responded and legal action is
being pursued. All payment arrangements
are monitored for compliance and additional
action will be pursued, if agreements are not
fulfilled. To prevent a repeat of these
accounts that accumulated excessive
balances over several years, we have initiated
action against two additional accounts. We
have pulled all aspects of collections, except
an initial past due reminder notice, from the
accounting firm and are coordinating
collection efforts through our staff. I
appreciate the efforts of our Administrative
Manager (Rhonda) in her efforts to collect the
past due accounts.
Masters Reserve Account – The
Reserve balance at the end of November was
$256,839 with the only pending payments
being the performance hold on the tennis and
pickleball courts (held until electrical and
windscreen are completed) and the stove
replacement for the Yacht Club. It is
projected the reserve fund will end the year in
the $265,000 - $280,000 range.
The Finance Committee completed work
on the 2015 Reserve budget and submitted
its recommendation to the Board for approval.
The Committee was provided a list of projects
recommended by staff for maintenance
issues or recommended by residents from a
usage or aesthetic perspective. The objective
of the committee was to address the required
improvements and maintenance of amenities
through a long term plan utilizing professional
evaluations in determining the scope of work
required and the urgency with which the work
must be completed. The ultimate target is to
reestablish the financial foundation of the
reserve account with amenities that meet the
requirements of our governing documents.
We have been pleased by the comments and
depth of the recommendations from residents
and projects will be prioritized based on
urgency and cost. This committee will
continue to evaluate projects during the first
half of 2015 to insure accurate data is
available for the 2016 process. Resident
involvement is appreciated.
Gardens Accounts
Gardens Operating and Reserve
accounts are both tracking to budget targets.
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Administrative Manager
Rhonda Alegria, CAAM
VLPOA contracts with Colby
Management to provide accounting-only
services to the Association. At the August
Board meeting, the Board voted to extend that
contract and established an Ad Hoc Committee
to review the current contract and accounting
processes. This Ad Hoc Committee, named
CASA (Community Accounting Services
Assessment), has been hard at work for months
now. With the emphasis on efficiency, improved
service and fiscal responsibility, the Committee
is dedicated to evaluating this very complex
project and providing recommendations to the
Board if it is determined that a change is
needed.
The first phase of this project was to
identify ways that we can become more efficient.
Colby runs computer software which is not
compatible with our onsite software, creating
duplicate work on both sides. The CASA
Committee evaluated the work of the Strategic
Planning Committee, who had previously
reviewed this matter, and concluded that it
would not be feasible to change our software
providers at this time, both from an economic
position and from a priority standpoint. The
CASA members agreed and began constructing
a scope of work to solicit other vendors. Critical
focus points were minimizing the impact on
residents and improving services.
How does this impact you as individual
owners? Ideally, there should be little to no
inconvenience to you during the transition. The
Committee wants any changes that you will
notice to be positive ones. We’re looking into
some new services, such as the ability to ‘opt in’
to electronic billings and improved account
access.
The Committee will approach this
transition carefully in a controlled, phased
approach to minimize any glitches that may
accompany the change process. The end result
should be more efficient processing of our
accounting functions and more payment and
access options for our owners. More information
will be provided as the project progresses.
Gale O’Leary
Events & Communications
Tis the season – I hope you are all enjoying
the Holiday party, photos will be on the website
for you to view. Thank you Jan & Mike Borden
for taking pictures, next time we will make sure
to take one of you. Don Wetzel & Bill Jones set
up tables, Nancy Munsch cleaned & decorated
tables, organized and helped set up 25 gifts for
the games. Carol Robinette took tickets at the
door – kitchen help – organized 25 gifts for the
games – cleaned tables off and sanitized them.
Joan Weber, who was a guest, also chipped in
where needed; kitchen, helping with the game
etc. Huge thanks to everyone who helped make
this party so awesome!!!
** Anytime you see a flyer advertising an
event, tickets for that event are on sale. If the
event price is $15.00 or more, I want to give
you advance notice. I understand that some
people are on a budget, this way you will know
what is ahead and you can pick and choose.
After 2 weeks of sales, it will be open to the
public. Some of our upcoming shows are
requiring a full house or they have the option to
cancel the show. I am trying by best not to let
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John Lunsford
Facilities
& Grounds Manager
Over the past several years we have
embarked on a program to improve the quality
of the amenities in our community and as a
part of that endeavor we recently had a
professional evaluation of our lakes. The
evaluation indicated that the lakes were in
reasonably good condition but steps should
be taken to improve them 1) Provide aeration
to Landings Lake (Lake 1) and Lake Beardsley
(Lake 2) 2) Continue the annual program of
restocking the lakes with fish that control
weeds and 3) establish a program to treat the
lakes with a natural sediment reduction
stimulus. The boat that you recently observed
on the Lakes was installing the aeration system
which should have been a part of the initial
construction of the Lakes. Lakes 7, 8, and 9
previously had aeration installed and further
study is being conducted to determine the
need for aeration on Lakes 3, 4, 5, and 6.
The lighting of the tennis/pickle ball
courts was completed which leaves only the
installation of the windscreen to complete this
project. The windscreen has been backorder
but we do anticipate this to be completed
prior to the end of this year. The comments
we have received from the residents that have
Gale O’Leary - ECC that happen and asking you to work with me
on this.
*** When an event is over, would you all try
to remember to pick up your table and throw
your trash in the barrels on the way out. We
also have a recycle bin; we are working on
having it enclosed. Sometimes people forget
or think that we have a crew that does this
work; we have me and whoever volunteers to
played on the new courts has been
overwhelmingly positive. We anticipate this to
be completed prior to the end of this year. The
comments we have received from the residents
that have played on the new courts has been
overwhelmingly positive. We are in the process
of establishing the recommended maintenance
program to insure the courts are managed
properly.
We had a series of failures on the new
heater at the Landings Pool and the company
recently replaced this unit and it has been
working well since the new installation. We did
delay the annual maintenance work on the pools
until January so that we did not inconvenience
users during the holiday season.
We have been having some problems with
our lake 9 Fountain. We had a contractor out to
take look at it he found out there was a short in
the pump. The pump is being fixed all work is
covered under warranty.
From me and the field staff, we extend
greeting for a Merry Christmas and express our
appreciation for your support during the previous
year.
Continued from page 6
help me. So please try to remind them. I thank
you very much ahead of time.
**** My special thanks to Tom Dryfout for
donating a TEXAS HOLD”EM table. Our group
is getting bigger every month. Thanks Tom. Also
to Jan Galluzo, She donated a KITCHEN AID
MIXER; this was much needed for our bakers.
We absolutely appreciate your thoughtfulness.
Thanks, again. Gale O’Leary
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Exercise Groups
Sports Groups
Cards & Games
Social Groups
Craft Groups
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THE LEARNING CENTER
An AARP Smart Driver Course will be presented at the
Lakeside Building at the Landings, Saturday March 28,
2015 at 9 AM. The address is 20255 N. 106th Ave, Peoria, AZ. If you’re like many older drivers,
it has probably been several decades since you last took a “driver’s ed” course. Meanwhile the
roads, traffic laws and the very cars we drive have changed; as an example:
Are you still driving with your hands at 10 and 2 O’clock? Research now indicates the safest place
to place your hands is at 8 and 4 o’clock or 9 and 3 o’clock due to the chance of injury during an
accident in which airbag inflates
The Course is 4 hours short, satisfying most Insurance Companies requirements for a 3 year
discount on your AZ Auto Insurance Premiums (contact your insurance company for more details).
The multi-media course has been totally redesigned and is taught by AARP Volunteer Instructor
and Ventana Lakes Resident Bruce Burnside. Participant cost is $15 for AARP members and
$20 for non-members. Space is limited so call the Ventana Lakes Community office 623-566-6001
and reserve your place.
Ventana Lakes Garden Club
Understanding Seasonal Landscaping will be Master Gardener Kris Coates topic on Thursday,
January 8th in Edgewater A at 1 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend. We will learn what to do
each season in the way of fertilizing, pruning, etc., whether self-landscaping or using a hired
company. Upcoming meetings will include a Yard Art Craft project, Cooking with Native Plants
and a Yard Tour. A small donation is suggested to reimburse the Master Gardener.
Valley View Community Food BankVentana Lakes has been very supportive of Valley View Community Food Bank and the thrift store
connected to it (located at 10615 W. Peoria Ave, Sun City) This is really appreciated. Please
continue to bring non-perishable food items to the office whenever you can. Thank you so much
for your support of this valuable community program. Need anything picked up and your home?
Call Tony 623-566-3894.
Ventana Lakes Shalom Club
"...miracle of miracles: the candle suffused with only one day's oil burnt for eight days..."
It will be a greater miracle, if we don't put on eight pounds after last month’s Hanukah party! The
food was really great! We owe a big "thank you" to those indefatigable members who outdo
themselves each year preparing the traditional goodies.
It has been an interesting year for our group. Several of our members went on to their greater
reward, and to their survivors we again extend our collective condolences. We also have several
members dealing with severe illnesses and injuries. To them we extend wishes for a speedy
recovery. Hopes for a year of peace, harmony and good health are extended to all.
As usual, members will be advised of upcoming meeting details by email or phone.
Shalom, Burt Bacher
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Ventana Lakes employs an Event and
Communications Coordinator (ECC) to
coordinate and schedule entertainment events
for our residents and their guests. The ECC is
also responsible for communicating with
residents to ensure they are up-to-date on
activities and concerns. Program success is
determined by direct resident feedback and
event participation levels.
There are legal requirements your ECC
must comply with, such as: liquor laws,
regulations regarding food preparation,
service and consumption and Fair Housing
Act regulations dealing with age restrictions,
facility use and discrimination issues.
All events are self sufficient—no Association
funds are budgeted for them. Therefore, a
minimum level of participation is required to
ensure an event is cost effective. An event may
be cancelled, if a participation threshold is not
met. Events are booked and advertised months
in advance, and VLPOA residents are given first
choice to reserve seats. When participation is
low, seats are opened to the general public. It
is disappointing when an event must be
canceled due to poor response. Over the last
six months, resident participation in events has
declined, resulting in several cancellations.
The ECC develops contacts with a multitude
of entertainers who cater to HOAs, small groups
and Active Adult Communities. She spends
countless hours negotiating quality
entertainment at the lowest price possible.
Being an “unknown” entertainer does not mean
“poor quality”. Past events have been of such
high quality that other entities have attended
them to preview and book our entertainers.
Feedback and past behavior influence
future scheduling. For example, last year’s
New Year’s Eve event was well attended, but
feedback received indicated fewer might
attend this year’s event, because another
local venue booked a preferable entertainer.
Your ECC took precautions to ensure a
successful New Year’s Eve event by opening
some seats to outside guests. This event
sold out in mid-November.
Your ECC does not personally host all
Ventana Lakes events, nor does she get paid
to attend all events. She adjusts her
schedule every week to compensate for the
days that events are held. Volunteers are still
needed to assist with all activities and events.
Some monthly casino trips, dance nights,
dinner shows and seminars are popular and
well attended; others are not. The Board of
Directors would like your input on event
scheduling. Please help by completing the
following survey and returning it to the
Management Office by January 31, 2015.
—— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— —— ——
—— —— —— —— ——
Ventana Lakes Event Scheduling Survey
#
Options
1
Continue scheduling events
2
Limit scheduling Ventana
Lakes events to 2-4 a month
3
Stop scheduling any events
Y N Comments
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Notary at your place by appointment. G.F. Bonifaz 623-221-6769
Ethan Allen solid wood bookcase with leaded glass doors, medium pecan color $125.00 Call
480-599-5840
New-Never Used—3 Wheel Rollator folding Walker with basket, tray and zippered pouch. Dark
Blue. Purchased for $135.00 will sell for $85.00. Contact Joyce @ 623-433-8990.
Maytag French Door Refrigerator. Black $699.00 Call 623-208-0886.
Outdoor Electric Grill (Power Chef by Dimplex), Cost $300, Sell $45 Used twice Joan
562-208-1049
HP Printer, Model 7280, Scan, Print, Copy and Fax with CD-Book of instructions-extra ink-works
good $25.00; HP Digital Camera Model R717-with battery, memory card, docking station, and
cord $25.00; Kodak Digital Camera-Model Z8612. Is with battery, memory card, and docking
station $25.00 602-228-9489
Place your Classified Ad at a very reasonable cost; $1 for ten words , $2 for 20 words or $3 for 30
words. Here is your chance to sell some of your things that you just don’t want any more or to find a
new “treasure” at a great price. Contact the office to place your ad. Sorry, but they can’t take credit
cards so cash or checks only.
Italian American Club
Bruce Burnside opened the meeting with the pledge of allegiance and recognizing
December birthdays and anniversaries. An invocation by Cathy Mannino included a moment of
silence in memory of Pat DiGiovani. Surprise visitors from the North Pole giving gifts to an
attendee at each table, a sumptuous meal and entertainment by the Diane Lindsey Band made
this event a real Christmas memory. Cheesecake and apple pies topped off the festive evening.
January's meeting will be held the second Thursday of the month, January 8th, as the first
Thursday is New Years Day. Mark your calendars and join us at a Member's only meeting with
Pizza and a Penny Auction. Call Gail Hellquist at 623-234-2200 to get your tickets, and remember
to bring a wrapped item for the penny auction.
The February 5th meeting celebrating Valentine’s Day is open to members and guests.
Mary Jo Johnson—a favorite of us all—will entertain, and a great dinner will accompany the
entertainment. Tickets are $12.00 for members and $15.00 for guests. Please bring a food item
for the Food Bank at every meeting.
The Ventana Lakes Italian-American Club is open to all Ventana Lakes residents who
share an interest in all things Italian. Call President Bruce Burnside,
623-322-6257, if you have questions or are interesting in joining.
Chuck Hellquist, Secretary
Beginning in February, trash and recycle cans will be picked up on the same date. Watch your
water bill for more information on this.
You can now submit your Architectural request applications via email to [email protected].
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VLPOA Election Information –
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
The Election Committee Chairperson this year is resident Kathy Freda. Make sure your assessments and auto
payments are up-to-date to ensure your vote will count.
IMPORTANT ELECTION INFORMATION
If you plan to seek a Board seat, you must submit a Declaration of Candidacy and
documentation showing you are a Ventana Lakes homeowner and at least 55 years of age (driver’s
license, passport or government issued photo ID card). The declaration is a personal written
statement expressing your interest in a board seat in your own words. You may also include a
digital resume (CD or e-mail) not to exceed 350 words. Your information must be positive in tone.
Submit your declaration (and resume, if desired) to [email protected] no later than Friday,
January 9th 2015 at 4:00 p.m. for publication in the February Ventana Views.
Be advised that Election Rule 15 was updated to address write-In votes. Please read Rule 15 carefully. The
following is a summary of the rule:
Any homeowner may write-in the name of a Ventana Lakes homeowner. To qualify as a write-in candidate:
The write-in candidate’s name cannot already be listed on the ballot.
The write-in candidate must meet the requirements of the CC&R’s.
The write-in candidate should submit a Declaration of Candidacy prior to the Annual Membership Meeting (March 3 rd
2015).
The individuals who write-in a candidate’s name must ensure that the candidate is aware of his or her write-in status.
The write-in candidate must:
Be present at the Annual Membership Meeting to verify his or her eligibility and accept the position, or
Be available via electronic means on the day of the Annual Membership Meeting to verify his or her
eligibility and to accept the position.
Should a write-in candidate not accept or not qualify, the candidate with the next highest votes shall be advanced to a
vacant Board position.
MEET THE CANDIDATES SCHEDULE
Three “Meet the Candidate” sessions are scheduled for all self-declared and write-in candidates to present their
qualifications and their positions on issues and for community members to question the candidates. These meetings will be
held at the Yacht Club:
Thursday - January 15th at 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday - January 27th at 1:00 p.m.
Saturday - February 7th at 10:00 a.m.
VOTING PROCEDURES FOR 2015 BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION
Ballots will be mailed to each homeowner of record approximately 30 days before the Annual
Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2015. If you have not received a ballot by Thursday,
February 5th, please call the Management Office.
Voting in person will take place on March 3rd between 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. If you prefer
to vote by mail, you may mail your ballot in the control numbered envelope provided, or deposit it in
the locked voting box in the Management Office no later than 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2rd.
The control numbered envelope is used ONLY to validate that the ballot was returned by a property
owner and is not a duplicate. No one can use this control number to learn how you voted or connect
that ballot to you. Please do not tamper with the control number. If you mark over the control
number or scratch it out, your vote cannot be validated and therefore will not be counted. If you
have any questions, please contact the Management Office (623) 566-6001.
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TIME IN A BOTTLE
JANUARY 17 - SATURDAY
-
Brought to us by TERRY DAVIES
SHOW STARTS 7:00 p.m.
in the YACHT CLUB.
Please don’t wait until the last minute to get your tickets. They are only $20.00 and you
can get them NOW at the office. There are a few of our residents who have seen this
show and have asked me to PLEASE bring it to Ventana Lakes. So, here it is!
E N J O Y !!!
**********************************************************************************************************************************************
TIME IN A BOTTLE
From Jim Croce to Dan Fogelberg – from Carole King to James Taylor,
“Time In A Bottle” presents an unforgettable couple of hours of some of the greatest
American music to come from the 1970’s.
From the end of the 1960s, it became common to divide mainstream rock music into soft
and hard rock, with both emerging as major genres of popular music. In the early ’70s,
rock music mellowed out creating the distinctive, laid-back sound of soft rock. The smooth
and easy feeling this music inspires is perfect for life’s most meaningful moments.
These are songs that just make you feel good.
“Time In A Bottle” re-creates the best of the Soft Rock era. Featuring the hits of Jim Croce,
Carole King, James Taylor, America, Dan Fogelberg, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot and
many more amazing singer/songwriters.
TIME IN A BOTTLE
will rock you gently.
JANUARY
B I N G O every Monday
At the Yacht Club at 6:30
The snack bar closes after the break.
* * * * * * *
* * *
JANUARY - WEDNESDAYS 12:30 - 2:30
BEGINNER LINE DANCE LESSONS $4.00 Y.C. Every Wednesday. If there is a
Board Meeting they will hold the lessons in
the Lakeside building.
* * * * * * *
* * *
JANUARY 4 - SUNDAY - 3:00p.m.
BILLIARDS ROOM - Yacht Club
FREE Professional Trick Shot Billiard
Exhibition BY: STEVE LILLIS
One show only and free door prizes
Appeared on ESPN and other TV networks
worldwide with overseas travel to 15 foreign
countries
President and Founder of International
Ministry Organization called Gospel Trick
Shot Ministries, Inc.
Chaplain of the U.S. Men's Professional
Pocket Billiard Tour
Please, Call or sign-up at the office if you
will be attending. “IN MEMORY OF ELLA”
Donations will be accepted Commemorating Steve’s granddaughter
Elizabeth Fuehring
Elizabeth was taken from them far sooner
than she should have been. At just 2 1/2
years old Ella was enjoying a day out at
the farm when tragedy struck and she was
hit by a shuttle bus along with her mother
and a few friends. She passed instantly &
her mother, Sarah Fuehring, was rushed
into surgery with a broken femur.
Google - Elizabeth Fuehring for more info.
* * * * * *
* * * *
JANUARY 9 - FRIDAY - 6:30
TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT STYLE
There will be a $10.00 buy in at the Yacht
Club and a $3.00 sign-up charge at the
office for your admission ticket. If there
are over 12 people, then 1st, 2nd, and 3rd
place prizes will be given out. If there are
under 12 people playing, there will only be
1st and 2nd place prizes.
* * * * * *
* * *
*
15
We will be serving refreshments and sweets to
our players.
Marty will be your host at this Tournament
Style Texas Hold’em Night, and he is willing to
come back once a month if we have a good
showing. Let your friends know about this fun
event and don’t forget to sign up early.
* * * * * *
* * *
*
JANUARY 11 - SUNDAY - 12:30
NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE AT WILD HORSE
Bus picks up at the Yacht Club at 12:30
MATINEE SHOW - 3:00 (first come, first
serve seating)
DINNER - Choice of 2 restaurants
HOME - Bus leaves Wild Horse Pass Casino
at 7:30pm
PRICE - $20.00 includes all of the above plus
gratuities
There’s not been a Neil Diamond Tribute artist
like Dean Colley, who has the extraordinary
look, moves and sound of Neil himself.
Backed by his awesome band, Dean takes the
audience on a musical journey through the history of Neil Diamond and performs ALL the
hits including “Cracklin Rosie,” “America,”
“Song Sung Blue,” “Cherry Cherry,” “Holly Holy,” and other audience favorites from the Neil
Diamond catalog. Wherever Dean plays,
packed houses follow and the show’s reviews
are stellar. *** This event will sell out - get
your tickets now. ***
* * * * * *
* * *
*
JANUARY 13 -TUESDAY - 8:30 - 1:00
S.A.L.T. MEETING AT THE Y.C.
(POLICE DEPARTMENT)
Seniors and Law Enforcement working
together. Free lunch. You must sign up to
reserve a spot. No walk-ins. To sign up, call
Darryl Rivers at 623-773-7093. Don’t wait , the
seating is limited.
* * * * * * *
* * * *
JANUARY 15 - THURSDAY - YC - 7:00
MEET THE CANDIDATES SESSION
Meet the candidates session shall be held on
the following dates and times. This is part of
the 2015 Election process for the Board of Directors.
Thursday, January 15h @ 7:00
Tuesday, January 27th @ 1:00
Saturday, February 7th @ 10:00
* * * * * *
* * *
*
16
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
4
5
6
ACTIVITY MEETING
Y.C. - 1:00
12
13
“IN MEMORY OF ELLA”
QUIK SHOT
BY
STEVE LEWIS
11
BUS TRIP, CASINO,
NEIL DIAMOND TRIBUTE
& DINNER
BEGINNER
LESSONS
$4
----------WORKSHO
Y.C.
1
POLICE DEPARTMENT
S.A.L.T.
MEETING
8:30 - 1:00
$20.00
18
Wedn
19
20
2
SOUND ME
-------BOARD
Y.C.
25
26
27
CANDIDATE SESSION
1:00 Y.C.
2
HEALTH S
Y
INFO ON N
nesday
7
LINE DANCE
LAKESIDE 4.00
--------------OP MEETING
- 11:00
14
21
EETING - 8:00
17
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
LINDA & DAVE LINE
DANCE LESSONS
8
9
BAKING SESSION
SEMINAR
BENEVILLA
------------TEXAS HOLD’EM
TOURNAMENT 6:30
15
16
SCREENINGS
Y.C.
NEXT PAGE
17
TIME IN A BOTTLE
7:00 - $20.00 - Y.C.
TERRI DAVIES SHOW
CANDIDATE SESSION
7:00PM Y.C.
22
23
BAKE SESSION
LINE DANCE PARTY
6:30pm - 9:30pm
$7.00 @ DOOR
29
30
31
KARAOKE
Y.C. - 6:30 - $2.00
THE BREEZE
7 - 10 $6.00
DANCE
-----------MEETING
- 1:30
28
10
24
18
JANUARY 17 - SATURDAY - YC - 7:00
TIME IN A BOTTLE / TERRY DAVIES
$20.00
From Jim Croce to Dan Fogelberg – from
Carole King to James Taylor, “Time In A
Bottle” presents an unforgettable couple of
hours of some of the greatest American
music to come from the 1970’s.
From the end of the 1960s, it became common to divide mainstream rock music into
soft and hard rock, with both emerging as
major genres of popular music. In the early
’70s, rock music mellowed out creating the
distinctive, laid-back sound of soft rock. The
smooth and easy feeling this music inspires
is perfect for life’s most meaningful moments. These are songs that just make you
feel good.
“Time In A Bottle” re-creates the best of the
Soft Rock era. Featuring the hits of Jim
Croce, Carole King, James Taylor, America,
Dan Fogelberg, Neil Young, Gordon Lightfoot and many more amazing singer/ songwriters.
TIME IN A BOTTLE will rock you gently.
Please don’t wait until the last minute to get
your tickets. They are only $20.00 and you
can get them NOW at the office. Please
don’t wait until the last minute. There are a
few of our residents who have seen this
show and have asked me to PLEASE bring
it to Ventana Lakes. So, here it is!
E N J O Y !!!
* * * * * * *
* * * *
JANUARY 23 - FRIDAY - 6:30 - YC - $7.00
LINE DANCE PARTY W/KORT KURDI
Join Kort on the dance floor for a wonderful
evening of fun and easy line dances everyone can enjoy! Kort will do a walk-through of
each dance, call the steps and dance along
with us! BYOB AND SNACKS.
* * * * * * *
* * * *
JANUARY 27 - TUESDAY - 1:00 - YC
CANDIDATE SESSION
* * * * * * *
* * * *
We are always in need of volunteers.
Please call the office, one or two hours
really makes a difference. Thank you.
* * * * * * *
* * * *
JANUARY 28 - WEDNESDAY - Y.C.
RIGHT PATH HEALTH SCREENINGS is
returning to Ventana Lakes. Is Your
Health at Risk? Find Out!
HEART DISEASE – STROKE – CANCER –
ANEURYSM - KIDNEY/LIVER DISEASE . .
The screenings available are:
CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENINGS
Heart Ultrasound
Arial Fibrillation
P.A.D. (Peripheral Arterial Disease)
Carotid Arteries - Ultrasound
Thyroid Ultrasound
ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND
SCREENINGS
Abdominal Aorta
Gallbladder
Kidneys
Pancreas
Spleen
Liver____________________
All 11 screenings - $200
BP, Pulse, and blood oxygen saturation
level FREE w/ all screenings
(Comparable screenings in a medical
setting would cost $2-3,000 or more)
Appointments are required.
Call: 602-254-7130
Don’t miss out. Space is limited!
www.cathedralhealthservices.org/
screenings.htm
* * * * *
* * * * * * *
JANUARY 30 - FRIDAY 6:30 - Y.C.
KARAOKE
PAY $2.00 at the door. Snack bar will
be closed. BYOB and snacks. We
provide ice and water
* * * * *
* * * * * * *
JANUARY 31 - SATURDAY - 7:00 - 10:00
THE BREEZE DANCE BAND w/ Joey &
Gloria . Dance to the 50’s - 60’s -70’s -80’s.
Disco - Country - Motown - Ballroom. Get
your dance tickets for $6.00 now at the
office. We also will be selling Burger Baskets
for $5.00. (burger - chips - drink - cookie)
You must get your meal ticket at the office
so that we have a head count. We will also
be having a 50/50 raffle.
* * * * * * *
* * * *
19
LOOKING AHEAD
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------MARCH
FASHION SHOW - CHICO’S OUTLET - $7.00
ALLEN EDWARDS - SHOW & DANCE - $10.00
BUS TRIP - CASINO - SHOW (NASHVILLE GOLD) - DINNER $20.00
TEXAS HOLD’EM TOURNAMENT STYLE
SMALL BUSINESS EXPO
RUMMAGE SALE
LINE DANCE PARTY W/KORT KURDI
KARAOKE W/BILL JONES, CYRIL COLBERT & JAY
DOG PARADE W/PHYLISS ZUBIC
MARK STONE - (MENTALIST) COMEDY, MINDREADING & E.S.P.
AARP CLASS W/ BRUCE BURNSIDE
TOM & JERRY DANCE BAND
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------HAPPY EASTER
MONTHLY DINNERS
UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN * SNOWBIRD PARTY
MOTOWN & DISCO PARTY W/ TNT ENTERTAINMENT
SINGLES GET TOGETHER
GET TO KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOOR NIGHT
(DINNER & ? ? ? )
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----There are many different things coming your way. Please consider
volunteering for one of these events. If you have any suggestions
for an event, let me know.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20
CONTINUED FROM DEC. ISSUE BY Sheila
Lester-VLPOA Scribblers CHEYENNE,
THE PRAIRIE MUSTANG
After the loss of the lilly filly, the herd was
too nervous to sleep and kept wandering on
toward new grazing. Cheyenne wasn’t exactly
sure what had happened but he knew the
smell of wolves and fear and blood were things
he wanted to get far away from. This time
White Star didn’t have to goad him into
moving. He was only too happy to keep going.
Morning brought them to a small canyon,
protected from the winds and cold and carpeted
with bright green new grass. This time the herd
waited for Banjo to lead the way. All was safe
for them. There was plenty of grass and a nice
stream fed by the melting snow running off of
the canyon walls above. It was perfect horse
country.
As the mares dropped their foals, Banjo’s little
band had grown to fourteen. They spent time
in the canyon, grazing, getting back their thin
layer of fat. They shed their unsightly winter
coats in exchange for a sleek new summer
look. The foals played and nursed, and it
wasn’t long before the mares began to wean
them. They quickly learned to eat grass on
their own. They started to develop into pretty
little fillies and handsome colts. Banjo and their
mothers had passed on their best qualities.
As he realized his brood was stronger and the
grass was thinning, Banjo nipped at the mares
and foals and started them on a migration
around his territory. He had created a route
and routine to provide his harem with a new
and abundant supply of grass and convenient
watering holes. He avoided other herds and
the two-legged wolves.
Cheyenne and his friend, Buckskin, were now
two year old bachelors. It was time they left
the herd. It took a few nips and some strong
bites from Banjo to convince them they were
on their own. Looking back over his shoulder,
Cheyenne caught the last sight of his mother.
He was on his way to a new life.
Cheyenne had grown into a handsome dark
brown horse with black points. His mane and
tail were nearly blue they were so dark. His
legs were the darkest of brown and he still had
that faint black streak down his back. His
frame was tall yet compact and he bore his
mother’s white star on his forehead. He truly
was a mustang of the plains. Buckskin was
shorter and smaller. He, too, had dark points,
dark mane, tail and legs. They both looked as
if they had walked into a deep bog of mud.
As the youngsters topped a low rise, they saw
a very large herd of horses ahead of them.
They were anxious to join a band and ran to
catch up with the others. By the time they
realized these were not wild horses, it was too
late. Riders were closing behind them and
there was only one way to go…forward into the
herd.
They had stumbled onto a herd recently
purchased and being taken to the U.S. Army at
Fort Laramie, Wyoming. Cheyenne and
Buckskin soon became separated and
Cheyenne was now more frightened than he
had ever been.
Most of the horses were rough-broke and had
been around men before. Cheyenne had not.
He did his best to stay in the center of the
milling animals, away from his captors.
The Ventana Scribblers welcome anyone
interested in creative writing. We meet the
second and fourth Saturday of the month.
Please join us. Call Sheila Lester at
623-594-6181 for details.
21
Ventana Lakes has over 3200 residents, each with
a unique and interesting story. In this Issue, we
continue our series of Spotlight stories, bringing
those stories to you. If you have a suggestion on a
Resident to profile, please submit your suggestion
to the Communication Committee.
Everyone Has a Story
Kathy Freda’s eyes fill with tears as she tells the story of being in Manhattan on
September 11, 2001. Yes, our Kathy Freda, a New Yorker who speaks her mind in her
pronounced Brooklyn accent. She still gets emotional when talking about that horrendous day
over thirteen years ago.
That day started like any other weekday. She took the train into Penn Station and
walked uptown to her office at West 44th Street and Broadway. When the first plane hit the
World Trade Center, she thought a stunt plane had gone off course. From her office window
on the 50th floor, she could see the plane sticking out of the tower. The image shocked
everyone.
When the second plane hit, terror and the realization that something was very wrong
swept the city. Emergency protocols were in place and as fire warden, Kathy made sure
everyone safely evacuated the floor. All buildings were considered a target. The Port
Authority Bus terminal and Penn Station were closed, everyone was at a loss as to where and
what to do.
Kathy’s focus became locating her husband Fred, who was also working in
Manhattan. They connected, but any attempt to get out of Manhattan was a nightmare. A
mass exodus was in progress. People jammed into any vehicle that was leaving the city. A
wave of people walked across bridges to exit the city. She thought she would never see the
end of that sea of people. Kathy recalls, “People say New Yorkers don’t care about anyone but
themselves. Well, that day everyone helped each other, even strangers.”
After nearly eight hours since the first plane struck, Kathy and Fred finally headed to
their home in New Jersey. It was so eerie walking to Penn Station with all the streets
empty. One could stand in the middle of 42nd Street and Broadway and see nothing. The only
sounds were sirens and the echoing of people proclaiming the end of the world.
They got on the first train out of Penn Station, which was packed. “As we got into
New Jersey, you could see the smoke. It was surreal. We were fortunate that we did not lose
anyone that day, but a part of me was forever changed. For weeks after that tragic day you
could still see the smoke.” The next day Kathy stated, “I wasn’t going to let a terrorist get the
best of me, so I went to work.”
Kathy and Fred moved to Ventana Lakes in 2010. She is a member of the
Strategic Planning Committee, the Election Committee, Prides and works in the Yacht Club
kitchen. One never knows what is behind the happy façade of our neighbor.
Contributed by Jan Borden of the
Communications Committee
22
Interested in advertising with us? Send us
an email at [email protected] or contact
the Management Office. Special Rates for
VLPOA Residents!
Residents are welcome to submit articles
or article suggestions. All submissions must
be received by the 12th of the prior month
and are subject to approval. Please provide
electronic copy, preferably in 12 pt. Arial
font (for articles only; ads will be published
as submitted) to [email protected].
23
ARIZONA ROOF RESCUE
LLC
3635 W Rose Lane, Phoenix, AZ 85019
Licensed-Bonded-Insured ROC.#264597
Dual Licensed for Residential and Commercial
Alan Monzon, Operations Manager
Office # 602-242-2706 - Fax # 602-595-2704
E-Mail # [email protected]
www.arizonaroofrescue.com
Repair or replace shingle and tile roof systems,
flat roof systems, foam roof repair
Pigeon issues, maintenance, coatings, venting
free inspection & free estimate
We are a Member of the
B.B.
Bureau,
Service
Magic
Mem-
24
25
15030 N 99 th Avenue
Sun City, Arizona 85351
$9.95 OIL CHANGE
26
27
28
29
30
Listen Assist is available for
the Hearing Impaired at all
Yacht Club functions. Bring
your own FM radio and
headphones and tune to
101.9.
31
2
0
1
4
VENTANA LAKES
HOLIDAY PARTY
X
M
A
S
HO! HO! HO!
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
1
2
3
4
5
6
ACTIVITY
MEETING
BEGINNER
LINE DANCE
LESSONS
LINDA &
DAVE LINE
DANCE
LESSONS
7
BOBBY
BROOKS
SHOW
CANDIDATE
SESSION
10
11
13
14
8
9
BUS TRIP
CASINO,
ABBA &
DINNER
GOLD
EVENT
USA
15
16
12
LINE
DANCE
PARTY
17
18
19
SOUND
GROUP
22
23
24
25
26
20
21
TEXAS
HOLD’EM
POKER
DAN ST.
PAUL
COMEDY
SHOW
27
28
KARAOKE
THE
UGLY
SWEATER
CONTEST
PARTY &
DANCE
W/D.J.