By JEFF DEMPSEY, DAILY NEWS-SUN East Valley Tribun

Back in 1994, Realtor Blanche Lukes was living in Arizona and preparing to move her mother from their family home in Chicago.

“My mother and father lived in a home built in 1936,” she said. “My mother was in that home for nearly 60 years by the time she was ready to leave.”

And in that home, she said, was six decades’ worth of possessions, all of which had to be dealt with before she could make the transition.

“My brother and I brought her to Phoenix, to an independent living facility, and she loved it,” Lukes said. “But the weekend we spent in Chicago getting her moved out was tough.”

Lukes was on hand at the Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale along with Robin Adrihan, owner of Smooth Transitions of the Valley, for a seminar aimed at seniors looking to downsize or to sell their homes.

Lukes, who works with RE/MAX Renaissance Realty in Peoria, said seniors looking to sell should find a Realtor with a Senior Real Estate Specialist designation.

“Realtors with that SRES designation have been given special training to deal with seniors,” she said. “They have that experience.”

She also said seniors preparing to sell a home should consider having friend or family member present when any big decisions are being made.

“You need to have an advocate,” she said. “A family member, even an attorney, someone who can offer some guidance or even act in your place if you fall ill.”

Lukes said anyone hoping to learn the secret to quickly selling a home will be disappointed.

“There is no magic formula,” she said. “The two biggest factors will always be the condition of the home and the asking price.”

Adrihan said her business is all about downsizing, often in preparation for the move to assisted living facilities.

“We’re a senior move management company, and that’s a fairly new industry,” she said. “We do more than regular movers because this is not just a move, it is a life transition. People are giving up things with a lot of memories attached to them.”

First and foremost, whether a person decides to hire a company like Smooth Transitions or do the job on their own, Adrihan recommended getting an early start.

She also said those getting ready to move should compartmentalize the job.

“Work one room at a time,” she said. “Stay focused, you’ll see the progress you’re making and that will kind of spur you along.”

Adrihan said the best place to begin is the room least frequented.

“Start in the room where you have the least emotional attachment, say, the garage or a guest bedroom,” she said. “It will be easier to let go of those things, and you’ll probably find quite a few items that can be sold or donated.”

She said most people can get rid of nearly everything in their kitchen, as assisted living facilities typically prepare meals.

“Instead of a drawer full of things, you’ll probably be fine with two or three of each item,” she said. “And will you need that toaster oven? That big coffeemaker?”

As for what to do with the items that will have to go, Adrihan said the most popular choices are to find a family member to give the item as a gift, to donate it or to sell it.

“For selling, estate sales are the best option,” she said. “They seem to be the way for the client to make the most money.”

Adrihan said if a person prepares well ahead of time the downsizing process does not have to be stressful.

“It’s an emotional time, because it’s an entire lifetime you’re having to make decisions about. The bottom line, though, is you’ll always have the memories. But that stuff? It’s just stuff.”

CLOSE

A colorful array of paintings, jewelry, crafts and needlework by Thunderbird Retirement Resort residents and local artists were on display at the Glendale retirement community's art exhibit.

Several artworks by residents of Thunderbird Retirement Resort were selected for submission to the nationwide art competition hosted annually by Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, for its 12-month Expressions Art Calendar. The judged competition will announce the artworks selected for inclusion in the 2012 Expressions Art Calendar in the fall.

Among local entries submitted to the Watermark Retirement Communities' 2012 Expressions Art Calendar competition are the works of Thunderbird Retirement Resort resident artists: patchwork quilt by Eleanor Cathcart, painted plate by Marie Just, wintry oil painting by Donna Orr, and watercolor landscape by Ruth Walsh. Many other residents also showcased their talents during the art exhibit.

For seniors in the area who are inspired to discover their inner artist or develop their creative skills, Thunderbird Retirement Resort offers a variety of free, Watermark University classes from crafts, watercolors and acrylic painting, to chair yoga and water aerobics. For those with a passion for teaching and/or enrolling in the mind-expanding and body-strengthening classes, call 602-938-0414.  Watermark University courses are an ongoing program at Thunderbird Retirement Resort, 5401 W. Dailey St.



Ruth Walsh painted a watercolor depicting a sailboat winding along a waterway, which has been selected as an entry in a national competition among residents residing at Watermark Retirement Communities for a chance to be featured in the 2012 Expressions Art Calendar.

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort residents Willard Tripp, left, Glenna Harmount, right foreground, and guest Adriana Klein, mingle at the Glendale retirement community’s speed dating social.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort had 22 eligible seniors romancing thoughts of re-entering the dating scene during a speed dating event.

Stormie Curtis, move-in coordinator at Thunderbird Retirement Resort, hosted the speed dating social in the Glendale retirement community’s Starlight Theater.

The dating game was played with women seated on one side of a table for four, while the men rotated around the room following a predetermined time limit.

“Every five minutes, gentlemen stand up and move one chair to the left,” Curtis said. “Women, the men will move to you. Sit and socialize. If a match in friendship, companion or more, mark a ‘yes,’ if not ‘no,’ beside the name.”

Everyone was on a first name basis, since no last names were exchanged. At the end of the event the “yes group” was coupled together for a follow-up social at a later date.

“I came just for the fun of it,” Phoenix resident Marion Greenberg said. “It’s an interesting concept.”

“I’m a fun-loving, crazy person,” Thunderbird Retirement Resort resident, Glenna Harmount said. “I love people and join in everything.”

Leo Escherhausen, a resident of Phoenix, agreed. “I never meet a stranger. I always make friends with everyone,”  he said. Escherhausen has kept a one-year diary every year for 53 years since his farming days in South Dakota, and was planning to pen an entry about speed dating.

Chitchat filled the room as the seniors mingled in five-minute increments before the Speed Dating crowd was asked to evaluate their encounter.

 As for speed dating advice, Curtis advised, “If you’re having a conversation and the five minutes goes fast, then it’s a ‘yes.’”

CLOSE

MITCHELL VANTREASE, DAILY NEWS-SUN | Posted: Monday, May 23, 2011 9:33 am Even though it was an impersonation of Justin Bieber, several young girls screamed and yelled as Levi Mitchell performed as the teenage pop singer.

But Glenna Harmount, 87, hollered with just as much enthusiasm for the impersonator and so did others in the audience. Mitchell performed to a mixed crowd Saturday with children and seniors at Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale.

Harmount said she enjoyed watching Mitchell and always has loved the real Bieber.

“People might think it’s strange that I like Justin Bieber, but I can like old and young singers,” she said with a laugh. “(Justin Bieber) is so cute and just a good singer, very darling and I don’t see anything wrong with being a fan even at my age.” At the end of the mini concert, Harmount took a picture with Mitchell and planted a big kiss on his cheek, leaving red lipstick prints.

Angelia Mitchell, Levi’s mom, said she found the moment between Mitchell and Harmount funny.

“I thought that was so cute when she did that,” said Mitchell. “I know that he enjoys performing and making folks happy, so this is so much fun.”

The one-hour free concert benefited Watermark for Kids, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering kids to express themselves and thrive. During the event, Mitchell poised as Bieber for fans in photos for a $3 donation, all going to Watermark. In addition, MidFirst Bank collected coin contributions and will match up to $1,000, depending on how much money was raised from the concert.

Peoria resident Roz Farnsworth decided to bring her granddaughter, Marissa Bajaras, 5, of Las Vegas, to the concert.

Farnsworth said she heard of Bieber but wasn’t familiar with any of his songs, other than “Marissa talks about them all of the time.”

Marissa is visiting Farnsworth for a week, so the grandmother thought the concert would be perfect.

“She loves Justin Bieber so much,” she said. “When they introduced him, she put on some lip gloss just before he came out so she could look pretty.”

In addition, Farnsworth chuckled and watched as Mitchell, a.k.a. Bieber, received a hug from Marissa, who wouldn’t let go.

“That was just too adorable, but that’s how much she loves Justin Bieber, even if it wasn’t the real one,” she said with a laugh.

Angelia Mitchell said her son has always enjoyed impersonating Bieber and will probably do it a little longer, even though he’s already taller and his voice is much deeper than the real celebrity.

“Levi loves doing this stuff and he made both the young and older people smile,” she said.

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Revelers were having a ball at Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s Mardi Gras Masquerade with Bourbon Street music by the Desert City Six.

Merrymakers masqueraded through the Glendale retirement community flaunting flashy feathered masks and Mardi Gras costumes. Residents looked like jewels adorned in symbolic Mardi Gras beads: purple representing justice; green, faith; and gold, power.

Clad in old-time barbershop quartet-style stripes, Desert City Six piped up with a jazzy mix of Dixieland music ranging from “(Won’t You Come Home) Bill Bailey,” to a  Louis Armstrong impersonation on “Hello, Dolly.” Bandleader Dick Knutson’s Desert City Six band played a mix of musical instruments, including trombone, trumpet, tuba, banjo and washboard.

“I love to dance,” said Opal Sellheim, an 80-year-old resident of Thunderbird Retirement Resort, as she spun around the dance floor to the snap-happy music.

Meanwhile, countless chair dancers could be seen swaying to the toe-tapping rhythm of Dixieland jazz standards, such as “Basin Street Blues,” “Sweet Georgia Brown” and “Tin Roof Blues.”

To swing by for a tour, call Thunderbird Retirement Resort at 602-938-0414. Thunderbird Retirement Resort is located at 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s community life, Valerie Leethip (center), revels with residents, Dorothy Weisenberger and Milo Kinn, at the Glendale retirement community’s Mardi Gras Masquerade. 

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s reveling resident, Pat Lilley (center), masquerades alongside Whitney Lloyd (left) and Valerie Leethip, both of community life, at the Glendale retirement community’s Mardi Gras celebration. 

 

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s 80-years-young resident, Opal Sellheim
 (right), and community life, Whitney Lloyd, join in the merrymaking as they
 dance to Bourbon Street music by Desert City Six playing at the Glendale
 retirement community’s Mardi Gras Masquerade

CLOSE

Watermark for Kids award recipient Da’Vaughn Cantley (center), a freshman at Ironwood High School in Glendale, receives congratulations from Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s executive director Kristi Roberts (right) and Watermark University director Linda Wiley. The Watermark for Kids program provides Cantley with an opportunity to receive coaching in the culinary arts at the Glendale retirement community, so he can pursue his dream of becoming a pastry chef. Photo by Marla Levine.

 

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Thunderbird Retirement Resort teamed with its Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, to kickoff the Watermark for Kids program at the Glendale retirement community. The “Shine Night” celebration honored the first local Watermark for Kids award recipient, Da’Vaughn Cantley, a freshman at Ironwood High School in Glendale.

The Watermark for Kids award encourages underserved kids to express their creative spirit, leadership skills and compassion in a way that makes a difference in the world and helps the Watermark Kid thrive.

Cantley’s dreams of becoming a pastry chef are being nurtured by hands-on coaching from Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s food and beverage director, John Valencia. As Chef Valencia shares his secrets of the culinary arts with the aspiring baker, Cantley will get a taste of preparing meals for the retirement community’s restaurant-style dining room menu at the Dailey Street Grill.

“Ten years ago, the first time I watched the Food Network, that’s what inspired me to be a chef,” Cantley recalled. “I was six and at my graduation from kindergarten the teacher asked what I wanted to be? I said,  ‘Food Network chef.’”

Originally an Emeril Lagasse fan, he favors cooking shows with Martha Stewart, and the Food Network’s Ace of Cakes, Chef Duff, and the Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro.

“My specialty for my own cooking recipe is Cantley Cookies,” he said. “Oatmeal, chocolate chips and walnuts – tastes delicious.”

To sweeten his success, the Watermark for Kids program will sponsor him at the culinary summer camp at The Art Institute of Phoenix. The Ironwood Class of 2014 student also plans to take courses in culinary arts and creative foods.

During the Watermark for Kids “Shine Night” program, Thunderbird Retirement Resort awarded Cantley several tools of the trade including a chef’s uniform and hat, Faberware cookware, bakeware set, and a knife roll.

Raffle tickets sold at Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s “Shine Night” raised funds for Watermark for Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering kids to fully express themselves and thrive.

Thunderbird’s executive director, Kristi Roberts announced, “We are thrilled to have MidFirst Bank tallying and matching donations, which are topping $500, which is incredible.”

MidFirst Bank stationed a coin van that counted $577.10 in monies contributed by Thunderbird residents, staff and guests. MidFirst Bank generously matched the donations by adding another $577.10, for a grand total of $1,154.20 contributed to Watermark for Kids.

 

CLOSE

To celebrate Valentine’s Day, several couples from Immanuel Campus of Care in Peoria and Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale shared words of wisdom and lasting love advice they would give today’s young couples.

Immanual residents Allen and Margaret Baker, who will be married 57 years this month, grew up and went to school together.

The Bakers, parents of five children, offered young couples this advice: “First and foremost, be friends first. Never fail to forget that. Faith holds it all together.”

Dennis and Alice Koenig, also Immanual residents, have been married 53 years and are the parents of two sons. They met on Alice’s 18th birthday, which fell on her first day of work at the JCPenney where Dennis worked. The couple were love struck and two years later, she asked him to marry her.

“She’s still my bride,” Dennis vowed.

“It is a gratifying feeling that our love and friendship has lasted this long,” Alice said.

Glendale Retirement Resort residents also shared their love stories.J.T. and Irene Peterson met through a mutual friend and have been married 55 years.

“Be prepared to work harder than you have on anything in your life. Compromise, forgive the hurts, and work, work, work,” they said. “Try to do something you both love together. Be best friends.”

Steve and Claire Gallizioli, married 61 years, met when she traveled from New York to California to see her sister’s two children for the first time.

“His mother and my sister were friends,” Claire said. “She took me to meet Steve’s mother, and I met Steve too.”

The Galliziolis offered young couples this advice: “Follow your promise to love for better or worse, and if you work hard to make it better, it will be better. You will have arguments, but talk it out.”

George “Ken” and Georgena Mead, married 55 years, met through mutual friends. “Continue to see and share activities with your single friends,” Georgena said. “Add younger and older friends to your life, including parents, in-laws, nieces and nephews, their friends and neighbors, etc. Take time out sometimes to be alone together.”

Paul and Sue Bennett, married 51 years, met at a church youth group in Caribou, Maine, and married four months later.

“Give God first place in your heart and life,” Paul said. “Be considerate. Treat your partner the way you want to be treated. Be a good listener. Be faithful. You have to work at it lovingly.”

Milo Kinn and Dorothy Weisenberger, have been together three years. “While visiting Thunderbird, the first day at breakfast, we began our courtship,” Dorothy said. “I made several more visits before moving in with Milo.”

As for the secret to a successful relationship, she says with a smile, “Good humor and laughing together a lot. Self respect and respect for each other. Communication!”

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Thunderbird Retirement Resort teamed with its Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, to kickoff the Watermark for Kids program at the Glendale retirement community. The “Shine Night” celebration honored the first local Watermark for Kids award recipient, Da’Vaughn Cantley, a freshman at Ironwood High School in Glendale.

The Watermark for Kids award encourages underserved kids to express their creative spirit, leadership skills and compassion in a way that makes a difference in the world and helps the Watermark Kid thrive.

Cantley’s dreams of becoming a pastry chef are being nurtured by hands-on coaching from Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s food and beverage director, John Valencia. As Chef Valencia shares his secrets of the culinary arts with the aspiring baker, Cantley will get a taste of preparing meals for the retirement community’s restaurant-style dining room menu at the Dailey Street Grill.

“Ten years ago, the first time I watched the Food Network, that’s what inspired me to be a chef,” Cantley recalled. “I was six and at my graduation from kindergarten the teacher asked what I wanted to be? I said,  ‘Food Network chef.’”

Originally an Emeril Lagasse fan, he favors cooking shows with Martha Stewart, and the Food Network’s Ace of Cakes, Chef Duff, and the Cake Boss, Buddy Valastro.

“My specialty for my own cooking recipe is Cantley Cookies,” he said. “Oatmeal, chocolate chips and walnuts – tastes delicious.”

To sweeten his success, the Watermark for Kids program will sponsor him at the culinary summer camp at The Art Institute of Phoenix. The Ironwood Class of 2014 student also plans to take courses in culinary arts and creative foods.

During the Watermark for Kids “Shine Night” program, Thunderbird Retirement Resort awarded Cantley several tools of the trade including a chef’s uniform and hat, Faberware cookware, bakeware set, and a knife roll.

Raffle tickets sold at Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s “Shine Night” raised funds for Watermark for Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering kids to fully express themselves and thrive.

Thunderbird’s executive director, Kristi Roberts announced, “We are thrilled to have MidFirst Bank tallying and matching donations, which are topping $500, which is incredible.”

MidFirst Bank stationed a coin van that counted $577.10 in monies contributed by Thunderbird residents, staff and guests. MidFirst Bank generously matched the donations by adding another $577.10, for a grand total of $1,154.20 contributed to Watermark for Kids.

CLOSE

                 

PHOTOS BY MARLA LEVINE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s food and beverage director John Valencia, left, brought hearty

smiles to Glendale resident Louis Polsky and Marion Greenberg, a resident of Phoenix, during

a “Lunch and Learn: Incredible Edibles” fruit and vegetable carving class. Valencia, a six-year

Thunderbird associate, recently received an “express your Self” award for “Passion” from the

retirement community’s Tucson-based management company. To create a tomato rose, Valencia

said to “use a sharp knife and turn the tomato as you follow the skin all the way around.

Roll the skin to form a rose.” A “Taste of Germany” is on tap next at the Thunderbird Retirement

Resort, 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale.

The “Taste of Germany” from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 4 includes beer, bratwurst, sauerkraut, potato

salad, black forest cake, door prizes and German music by tuba player Duane Tendick. Call

602-938-0414 for reservations by Oct. 2.

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s food and beverage director, John Valencia, indulged residents and guests in the juicy topic of fruit and vegetable carving techniques at a recent “Lunch and Learn: Incredible Edibles” class.

A six-year associate of Thunderbird Retirement Resort, Chef Valencia recently savored a taste of sweet success as the recipient of the express your Self® award for “Passion” presented by the Glendale retirement community’s Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities.

Chef Valencia’s passion for the culinary arts spices up the retirement community’s restaurant-style dining room menu at the Dailey Street Grill. He is a cut above the rest when it comes to the art of carving fruits and vegetables into edible arrangements to accent his wonderful dishes.

At the “Lunch and Learn: Incredible Edibles” class Chef Valencia shared his secrets of the culinary arts by demonstrating the carving of fruits and vegetables into baskets, bouquets, birds and more.

“I’ll show you how to do some carvings and impress your friends,” Chef Valencia announced. “A simple accent makes a salad look like a million bucks.”

“To create a tomato rose, use a sharp knife and turn the tomato as you follow the skin all of the way around,” Chef Valencia demonstrated. “Roll the skin to form a rose.”

The crafty chef then wove around creating an orange basket, which he suggested, “Put on the plate with small grapes or watermelon.”

Admiring a vegetable bouquet with carrot petals and zucchini leaves, Phoenix resident Marion Greenberg marveled, “Amazing.”

“It’s a skill he’s been doing a long time,” Glendale resident Louis Polsky commented as he watched Chef Valencia craft the bouquet of flowers from carrots.

If you’re hungry for more, a “Taste of Germany” is on tap next at the Thunderbird Retirement Resort located at 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale. The “Taste of Germany” on Oct. 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. takes taste buds on a journey from the Alps to the Black Sea and back.

Call 602-938-0414 for reservations by Oct. 2 to savor the flavorful festivities with beer, bratwurst, sauerkraut, potato salad, Black Forest cake, and German music by tuba player Duane Tendick. Everyone will be in high spirits with lively polka music, door prizes, community tours and savory dishes to celebrate the comradery.

CLOSE

CLOSE

CLOSE

CLOSE

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – In celebration of Mother’s Day on May 9, several senior ladies from Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale contemplated what words of wisdom they would share with today’s young mothers. The seasoned moms reminisced about their decades old, child-raising tips that are as pertinent for today’s young mothers as it was in their youth.

Hertha Aguirre, a mother of two children, offers young mothers this advice, “Communication! Communication! Listen. Let your children know there is nothing they can’t talk to you about. Try to be at home (if possible) when children arrive home from school. Tell them often you love them.”

Lydia Balkenbush, a mother of one son and three daughters agreed, “Talk to your children about anything they are interested in. Listen to each of them. A meaningful hug goes a long way in gaining trust and affection. Laugh together as young ones learn to appreciate life’s ups and downs.”

Forsia Watkins, a mother of seven children advised, “If you can’t do anything else, give them a sense of humor.”

Irene Peterson, a mother of three children suggested, “Give them lots of love. Be firm about rules! Let them know what your expectations are. Encourage them to participate in sports, music, drama, debate, school, politics, volunteering, poetry and art. To live life fully with kindness and love.”

Dorothy Weisenberger, a mother of three children noted, “Relax, enjoy your children. Remember your own childhood and what made you happy. Don’t let new trends take over. Don’t over schedule your children’s time. Teach children it’s important to make choices.”

Betty Myers, a mother of two sons said, “Set good examples for them to follow.”

Lillian Stevens, a mother of three children said, “Start when they are young and teach children to respect other people, obey you, but be sure your request is worth following through with.  Don’t tell them ‘No’ and then let them do what they want, if you do they will not trust what you say.”

Selma Payne, a mother of four children advised, “Keep lines of communication open regardless of the age of your children (even when they are adults).”

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort Raises Money For Haiti

GLENDALE, Ariz. – In response to the devastating Haiti earthquake, Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s residents and associates contributed funds to a weeklong Haiti Relief Fundraiser in February.

The Glendale retirement community’s residents and associates raised $2,217 that was donated to the American Red Cross Haiti Relief and Development Fund. The financial contributions help to deliver humanitarian relief, such as food, water and medical supplies, to the people of Haiti struck by the 7.0-magnitude earthquake.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s Watermark University director, Linda Wiley, spearheaded the Haiti Relief Fundraiser. “We raised $1,965 the first evening,” Wiley said. “At the request of associates, we continued the fundraiser through payday. Thanks to the generous spirit of residents and staff, Thunderbird raised $2,217 for Haiti Relief.”

“The Haiti fundraiser received overwhelming support,” Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s executive director Kristi Roberts said. “I think it is pretty incredible to see the generosity right here in our community.”

Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, acknowledged that all of its Watermark communities across the country are raising funds for Haiti.

Watermark Retirement Communities is matching up to $5,000 in donations made by the senior living communities’ residents and associates to the American Red Cross Haiti Relief and Development Fund. The Watermark communities have already met and exceeded their goal of collecting $5,000 in contributions to the relief efforts in Haiti.

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort Partners with SafeNet Home Health

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale, in partnership with their Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, brings the expertise of SafeNet Home Health in-house.

Arizona-based SafeNet Home Health, A Watermark Agency, provides state licensed registered nursing and rehabilitation services, as well as certified social workers and registered dieticians, to residents residing at Thunderbird Retirement Resort.

“Our commitment is to support the resident in whatever care they may need so that they may continue to live a full, productive independent life,” said Patty Kuzia, executive director of SafeNet Home Health. “We provide quarterly educational meetings, plus an on-sight registered nurse is available 40 hours per week to answer questions.”

“A lot of residents find it assuring to have a nurse in the building,” said Kristi Roberts, executive director of Thunderbird Retirement Resort. “SafeNet’s services help residents to be proactive in maintaining an independent lifestyle. A weekly wellness clinic encourages residents to stay on the safe side by receiving nursing advice regarding medication questions and possible drug interactions, as well as monitoring vital signs.”

February is American Heart Month and SafeNet has heartily been encouraging residents to take preventive measures against heart attack and stroke by visiting the in-house office for regular blood pressure checks.

Individualized care planning, regular assessments and specialized dietary service encourage maximum independence when SafeNet’s Home Health Care is needed. Assessments are done by appointment to evaluate if a residents’ changing needs require stand-by assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming or monitoring medications.

Licensed nursing staff and certified nursing assistants, along with a team of occupational, physical, and speech therapists, provide Home Health Care in the privacy of a resident’s apartment. The patient’s medical expenses are often paid by Medicare or accepted by private insurance coverage.

SafeNet Home Health’s award-winning services received Ranking Arizona’s “Best of Arizona Businesses” 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 and the HomeCare Elite Award of Excellence. According to Kuzia, “Our success has been recognized nationally and we’re in the top 25-percent of home care agencies across the United States.”

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale, in partnership with their Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, find that more and more seniors are getting in the swing of the Spring 2010 Watermark University brain and body fitness classes. The retirement community’s residents and local seniors are enrolling in a variety of free, thought-provoking and body-strengthening classes available in the Watermark University Spring 2010 Course Catalog.

“Stimulating the mind and strengthening the body has enormous benefits at any age,” Watermark University director Linda Wiley said. “Besides being good for you, keeping the brain and the body active and engaged doesn’t just improve your life – it’s a whole lot of fun!”

“I love life,” Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s resident Hertha Aguirre declared as she expressed the joy she finds from being enrolled in the Thunderbird Kitchen Band, which utilizes kitchen utensils as instruments. She added, “In addition to rejoining the Kitchen Band, I’m going to try the Art of Acrylics again, the teacher is very talented.”

Food and beverage director Joe Aiello has students pouring into his Wine Tasting demonstrations that he hosts on the fourth Friday of the month. “Learning how to taste wines is a straightforward adventure that will deepen your appreciation for both wines and winemakers,” Aiello said. “Starting with your basic senses – look, smell, taste – and expanding from there to learn how to taste wines like the pros.”

Watermark University offers a variety of brain and body fitness classes designed to lift the spirit and tone the body – from chair yoga, water aerobics and healthful walking, to hands-on crafts, acrylic painting and gardening.

Watermark University courses are an ongoing program at Thunderbird Retirement Resort located at 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale. Call 602-588-1496 to request the Watermark University Spring 2010 Course Catalog featuring numerous free, mind-expanding and body-strengthening classes scheduled through April 2010.

CLOSE

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Lester Potts, a 95-year-old resident of Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale, leapt at a chance to fulfill his lifelong dream of skydiving in a tandem jump at Phoenix Area Skydiving on Oct. 7.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort, in partnership with their Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, granted his wish to skydive as a true expression of the company’s “express your Self” philosophy.

“Watermark Retirement Communities create an atmosphere where residents and staff are encouraged to pursue their dreams,” said Kristi Roberts, executive director at Thunderbird Retirement Resort. “It was a pure joy watching Lester Potts soaring across the sky. His inspiring adventure shows us that dreams have no age limit.”

“It’s exciting to know that somebody at 95 years old can still accomplish something they’ve dreamed about their entire lives,” agreed Debi Elder, resident services director at Thunderbird Retirement Resort. “It’s what our entire Watermark culture is all about – there’s no box or limit to what residents are capable of accomplishing.”

“I believe at his age and the condition that he’s in, which is remarkable, he should have every opportunity in the world to do what he wants to do,” said Lester’s grandson Gary Potts, a manager of the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport shops. “He’s that energetic and wants to do everything.”

Lester’s son Jerry Potts and daughter-in-law Ann Covington, residents of Phoenix, also gave thumbs up to the adventure-seeking senior’s tandem jump at Phoenix Area Skydiving in Casa Grande.

The supportive crew watched with great anticipation as Mark Sunman, manager and instructor at Phoenix Area Skydiving, secured Lester’s harness and reviewed the equipment with the first-time jumper.

Master jumper Sunman, a resident of Tempe, has done 6,000 skydives since he began parachuting 10 years ago. At age 95, Lester was a first for Sunman, who had never tandem jumped with someone in their 90s. He assured concerned onlookers, “It’s twice as fun and half as scary as you think it would be.”

The single-engine plane piloted by Ben Pegram, a resident of Tempe, took off from the Casa Grande Municipal Airport Terminal at 11:25 a.m. Bird’s-eye views of a 1,000-feet-deep copper mine near Casa Grande and the Phoenix skyline could be seen from the scenic flight.

At an altitude of 12,000 feet, the tandem jumpers’ 7,000-feet freefall flew by for less than one minute at 120 mph. The parachute opened at 5,000 feet and the pair soared through the air for five minutes before touching down in the landing zone at 11:45 a.m.

“Unbelievable,” exclaimed Lester soon after his feet touched the ground. “When we were on top of the clouds they looked like cotton, as if you could walk on them.

“My favorite part of the jump was when we started to slow down and I knew the chute was out,” he said. “I felt like a butterfly gliding on air. I could pull the chord to spin us around. I was having fun up there. It was peaceful, quiet up there, no noise, no wind – what a feeling.”

Soaring with enthusiasm, Lester added, “I’m ready to go again. My 96th birthday is Dec. 19, and would like to go again on my 100th birthday.”

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale had a public open house to kick off enrollment in the brain and body fitness classes offered by Watermark University.

Residents and local seniors received a sneak peek at the free classes available in the Watermark University Fall 2009 Course Catalog.

Watermark University Director Linda Wiley registered visitors for the cultural class, As U Wish, at a booth featuring places around the world.

"The As U Wish class travels off to unique parts of the world," she said. "Students learn about various cultures, animal life and foods."

"I signed up for Fall Treats," said Thunderbird resident Hertha Aguirre, as she treated herself to a cream puff prepared by food and beverage director Joe Aiello. "I rejoined the Kitchen Band. I’m going to try the Art of Acrylics again. The teacher is very talented."
Also on Aguirre’s fall calendar is her leading role in the retirement community’s Drama Club production, "Hello, Dolly!"

"Bookends is a book club-style class," said book discussion group leader Debbie Einstman, who serves as housekeeping supervisor and administrative assistant for maintenance. "We read ‘The Shack’ (a novel by William P. Young) last month, which brought out lots of discussion. Next, the readers have chosen to talk about the book, ‘My Sister’s Keeper,’ by Jodi Picoult."

Thunderbird resident Lita Schwartz, signed up for the Bookends, The Art of Acrylics, Ball Class, 4 the Love of Hot Rodz and Beading Made Easy.
Marketing director Stephanie Schmidt’s beadwork display included bracelets, necklaces, lanyards and earrings.

"From the wonderful samples here, I want to learn beading," said Colette Ellsworth, community liaison for Hospice Inspiris in Phoenix.
Watermark University courses will be featured ongoing at Thunderbird Retirement Resort. The Watermark University Fall 2009 Course Catalog offers classes through December.

CLOSE

July 30, 2009 12:52 PM
Staff report
Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale, in partnership with their Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, kickoff public enrollment to Watermark University with course demonstrations from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 7.

"Thunderbird Retirement Resort invites the public to enroll in Watermark University courses that stimulate the mind and strengthen the body," said Kristi Roberts, executive director of Thunderbird Retirement Resort. "Local seniors are encouraged to come to the open house-style event and discover the wide variety of brain and body fitness classes being offered by Watermark University. It’s an excellent learning opportunity and a great way to socialize with other fun-loving seniors."

To sample the free, thought-provoking and body-strengthening classes available in the Watermark University Fall 2009 Course Catalog, visit the kickoff celebration Aug. 7 at Thunderbird Retirement Resort, 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale. For reservations or enrollment information, call Thunderbird Retirement Resort at 602-588-1496 by Aug. 6.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort launched Watermark University with a resident orientation for its summer 2009 Course Catalog June 4. The ongoing Watermark University will continue with the fall 2009 Course Catalog, which includes a book club-style class called "Bookends," classic car enthusiasts can enroll in "4 the Love of Hot Rodz," as well as "Coffee Tasting" and "Easy to Make Fall Treats" courses and more.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort will continue to offer an ongoing course schedule of mind-expanding and body-toning classes available through Watermark University. Those with a passion for teaching can join the Watermark University faculty by contacting Linda Wiley at 602-588-1496 with course suggestions.

Thunderbird Retirement Resort features spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments with courtyard views of the sparkling ponds, fountains and heated swimming pool.

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort became the toast of the town on Jan. 30 as a myriad of guests poured in to get a look at the newly remodeled Glendale community. Ribbon-cutting ceremonies by both the Peoria and Glendale Chamber of Commerce members marked the unveiling of Thunderbird Retirement Resort’s recently completed renovations. “Thunderbird Retirement Resort is a valuable partner of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce,” acknowledged Diana Bedient, executive director / CEO of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce. “Marjorie van der Wagen (director of marketing) attends many chamber activities, thus increasing awareness of the many amenities Thunderbird has to offer.”

Among the highlights of the independent living and assisted living community’s enticing amenities are the new Bistro 5401 and freshly redecorated, restaurant-style dining room, the Dailey Street Grill. Excitement continued to build around every corner as visitors toured the Starlight Theater, and the Books & Bytes library and computer center.

It was a super kickoff to Super Bowl weekend with scores of chamber members and seniors huddling around the champagne fountain and waterfall of chocolate with sweet talk about the kick off of the newly renovated community. The Thunderbird Retirement Resort fans toasted everything from the community’s winning renovations, to its teaming with Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities, and of course, the anticipated Arizona Cardinals’ Super Bowl game.

About Thunderbird Retirement Resort: Thunderbird Retirement Resort is located at 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale. The community features spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments with courtyard views of the sparkling ponds, fountains and heated swimming pool. To learn more about Thunderbird Retirement Resort, visit http://www.watermarkcommunities.com or call 602-904-7895 to schedule a tour.

About Watermark Retirement Communities: Watermark Retirement Communities has owned and operated innovative, senior living communities for 20 years, and is committed to creating a culture where everyone is encouraged to express their true selves, where people connect with each other and real communities are formed. Watermark communities are located in Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Watermark Retirement Communities is headquartered at 2020 West Rudasill Road in Tucson, Ariz.

PHOTO: PEORIA CHAMBER Photo by Marla Levine The Peoria Chamber of Commerce officiated a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the renovations at Thunderbird Retirement Resort in Glendale. Call 602-588-1487 to schedule a tour of the retirement community’s new Bistro 5401 and freshly redecorated, restaurant-style dining room, the Dailey Street Grill.

CLOSE

Thunderbird Retirement Resort has twice as much to celebrate when “New Year, Take II – Ring in the Renovations!” uncorks from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 30. Excitement will be bubbling over with champagne toasts to the freshly renovated Glendale community and its teaming with Tucson-based management company, Watermark Retirement Communities.

Oysters Rockefeller, salmon canapés, antipasto hors d’oeuvres and sweet chocolate fountain treats will whet the appetite for a tour of the tasteful amenities. A new Bistro 5401 and redecorated restaurant-style dining room, the Dailey Street Grill, are spicing up life at the independent living and assisted living community. For a double-feature presentation, visitors will also be reeling with delight about the Starlight Theater, and Books & Bytes library and computer center.

“At Watermark, we’re committed to creating extraordinary communities where seniors can fully experience and celebrate their lives,” said David Barnes, president of Watermark Retirement Communities. “We’re excited to partner with Thunderbird Retirement Resort and to build upon the existing strength of this outstanding community.”

Come indulge in a taste of the “New Year, Take II – Ring in the Renovations!” celebration at the Thunderbird Retirement Resort located at 5401 W. Dailey St., one block north of Thunderbird Road at 53rd Avenue in Glendale. Space is limited. For reservations call Thunderbird Retirement Resort at 602-588-1487 by Jan. 28th.

About Thunderbird Retirement Resort: Thunderbird Retirement Resort features spacious studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments with lush courtyard views of the sparkling ponds, fountains and heated swimming pool. Visit http://www.watermarkcommunities.com to learn more.

About Watermark Retirement Communities: Watermark Retirement Communities has owned and operated innovative, senior living communities for 20 years, and is committed to creating a culture where everyone is encouraged to express their true selves, where people connect with each other and real communities are formed. Watermark communities are located in Arizona, Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Watermark Retirement Communities is headquartered at 2020 West Rudasill Road in Tucson, Ariz. Visit http://www.watermarkcommunities.com for details.

CLOSE