SCSH News

Stretching not only keeps the body supple and flexible, but recent studies have found that stretching reduces both physiologic muscle tension and the feeling of sadness, as well as decreased levels of stress-related hormones. In a population of clients at least 65 years of age, it has been shown that longer duration of 60 seconds may produce better and longer-lasting results. Sun City offers complimentary stretch, core, and balance classes on Tuesday at 8:00 AM at Santa Rosa and Thursday at 8:00 AM at Montecito. Participate in our class and experience the lasting effects of stretching.

Updates

• Headphones for use with the new cardiovascular equipment are now available for sale at the Santa Rosa Fitness Center for $2.00.
• A big shout out to the Sun City Shadow Hills Weight Watchers who have lost 534 lbs. combined since last October! If you or someone you know that resides here needs nutritional support, please contact our coach Sue White for details as to how to become part of this community meeting. You can email her at sue.a.white@weightwatchers.com.
• Aqua shoes are solely for the use of the pool. Please do not wear your water shoes until you are ready to get in the pool.

Instructor Highlight: Melinda Lowrey

Melinda has been part of the Sun City Shadow Hills team since 2016. She teaches Yoga Balance and Strength. ☞ Click here to learn more about Melinda.

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Mind-Body Wellness Day: Spend the day renewing and revitalizing your mind, body, and senses. Join us on May 18 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. ☞ Click here for details.
• Beat the Heat registration begins today: Our Beat The Heat summer month challenge will begin June 3 and runs through June 24. Registration starts today, April 22 and ends May 20. Stop by either fitness center to register. ☞ Click here for details.

"Every day is another chance to get stronger, to eat better, to live healthier, and to be the best version of YOU.” #strongforsummer

Remember to check scshca.com/fitness for any fitness class cancellations.

Committed to your well-being,
Valeria

Snakes and scorpions are making their spring appearance in Shadow Hills. One of our residents reported they killed eight scorpions over the last week. Another resident found a large snake curled up around a tree trunk in her front yard.

Please use caution whenever you are walking around the community and keep your pets close, as well.

If you spot a snake on your property, leave it alone and call Animal Control at 951-358-7387. Keep a visual on the snake from a safe distance until they arrive in order to make it easier to capture the snake.

By George Stephens, IAC Member

After the 6.7 Northridge earthquake in 1997, California mandated that insurance companies selling homeowner’s insurance policies also offer earthquake insurance. Many people mistakenly think their homeowner’s insurance policy covers them in the event of an earthquake. It doesn’t. Everything you thought you knew has changed!

In order to be covered for earthquake damage you must specifically carry earthquake insurance with the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) through your homeowner’s policy.

Be aware that even though earthquake insurance must be offered, homeowners are not required to purchase it. It is optional. If you choose to opt out of purchasing earthquake insurance that means you are assuming the entire financial risk if a quake occurs.

Southern California earthquake scientists predict a high probability of a 7.8+ quake along the ‘Great Bend’ of the San Andreas Fault. The San Andreas Fault is a seismic fault line cutting through the state of California, forming the boundary between the North American and Pacific tectonic plates. SCSH is located very near the San Andreas Fault at the east end of the “Great Bend”.

Earthquake insurance, like all insurance, comes with different coverage and deductible options. Insurance policy premiums are dependent upon the options selected such as the dwelling coverage limit, the percentage of deductibles, personal property coverage, loss of use, etc.

In 1985, the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) and the California legislature came up with a no-frills “mini policy” that any insurer could sell to comply with the mandatory offer law. The CEA offers insurance from approximately 30 different insurance companies. The premiums offered are mandated by the CEA. This means premiums are identical regardless of the company you choose. They range from $2,862 a year for full coverage to the minimum of $618.00 for the no-frills policy with a $100,000 deductible. The CEA also offers coverage for renters.

An informal survey of 22 Shadow Hills residents found that only two had earthquake insurance. One resident, who has the insurance, lived through the 1996 Northridge earthquake. Her home was 6 miles away from the epicenter and suffered extensive damage. Fortunately, she had earthquake insurance and was able to rebuild. Many of those who didn’t have earthquake insurance walked away from their homes.

Many residents surveyed expressed the belief that any earthquake event would result in damage below the $100,000 deductible (the highest deductible), so repairs would be covered out of pocket regardless of coverage. While it is possible damage could be within the deductible amount, this is a decision that should be carefully considered.

We all have made significant investments in our homes. Informed insurance coverage evaluation is highly recommended.

*For more information on CEA’s Earthquake coverage, visit www.earthquakeauthority.com

 

Bob began with Sun City Shadow Hills as the new Community Safety Director on Tuesday, April 9, 2019.

He comes to us after serving more than 18 years as The Public Safety/Community Service Director at the PGA WEST in La Quinta, California.

Bob served on police departments in both Massachusetts and New Hampshire while reaching the rank of Interim Police Chief and prosecutor in the District Courts.

While Bob is not much of a golfer he spends much of his time off volunteering as the Commander of Son’s of The American Legion in Palm Springs Post #519 and he serves on The Board of Directors of the Coachella Valley Crime Stoppers at the Sherriff’s Station in Palm Desert.

He is married with three children and 4 grandchildren.

Bob replaces Mark Galvin who resigned his position earlier this month.

Stretching not only keeps the body supple and flexible, but recent studies have found that stretching reduces both physiologic muscle tension and the feeling of sadness, as well as decreased levels of stress-related hormones. In a population of clients at least 65 years of age, it has been shown that longer duration of 60 seconds may produce better and longer-lasting results. Sun City offers complimentary stretch, core, and balance classes on Tuesday at 8:00 AM at Santa Rosa and Thursday at 8:00 AM at Montecito. Participate in our class and experience the lasting effects of stretching.

Instructor Highlight: Melinda Lowrey

Melinda has been part of the Sun City Shadow Hills team since 2016. She teaches Yoga Balance and Strength. ☞ Click here to learn more about Melinda.

Updates

• A big shout out to the Sun City Shadow Hills Weight Watchers who have lost 534 lbs. combined since last October! If you or someone you know that resides here needs nutritional support, please contact our coach Sue White for details as to how to become part of this community meeting. You can email her at sue.a.white@weightwatchers.com.
• Aqua shoes are solely for the use of the pool. Please do not wear your water shoes until you are ready to get in the pool.

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Mind-Body Wellness Day: Spend the day renewing and revitalizing your mind, body, and senses. Join us on May 18 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. ☞ Click here for details.
• Reformer Pilates Spring Special in Bloom: For the months of March and April, receive a 10% discount on Reformer Pilates packages. This offer is for first time participants. ☞ Click here for details.

“Spring: A lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be.” – Dayspring.com

Remember to check scshca.com/fitness for any fitness class cancellations.

Committed to your well-being,
Valeria

Our community is fortunate to have 15 unique, talented, knowledgeable, and crafted instructors who share their passion with their class participants.

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Melinda loves everything “movement.” She has been teaching both “land” and “water” yoga at Sun City Shadow Hills since 2016. She shares her knowledge of Ai Chi, a warm water relaxation practice and Hawaiian dance (hula) with SCSH residents. She teaches Qi Gong, Zumba Gold (for seniors), Aqua Zumba, chair yoga, and Yoga Meets Dance at other Coachella Valley locations. Her passion is teaching seniors with a focus on balance, both physical, mental, and emotional. When not teaching, she is practicing Ukulele, reading a good book, or spending time with kids and grandkids.

SCSH Golf Club Welcomes the LPGA
in the 2019 LPGA Western Section Championship Pro-Am
Sunday, April 28, 2019

Sun City Shadow Hills residents have an opportunity to PLAY WITH THE PROS in a one-day tournament, held at the SC Shadow Hills Golf Club on Sunday, April 28.  Residents are encouraged to play with an LPGA Teaching and Club Professional or you may participate by being a spectator throughout the South Course!

Lunch + Awards + Raffle + And More!

Tee Off:

• 6:30 am Check-In
• 7:30 am Shotgun Start
• 12:30 pm Lunch & Awards

Format: 4-Person Scramble (1 LPGA Professional, 3 Amateurs)

Entry Fee: $165 per Amateur

Deadline: April 15th 2019

Contact Information and Sponsorship: Dixie Eckes Shadow Hills Golf Club dixiesb805@gmail.com  (805) 708-0836

Register Online: https://tcp.lpga.com/Meetings/Meeting.aspx?ID=1985

Make Check Payable to: LPGA, send attn: Dixie Eckes at Shadow Hills Golf Club

We hope to see you out there golfing, but if not, please come out and enjoy the competition from your back patios or along the golf course.

Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) has hired Arizona Pipeline to conduct safety checks on our community gas lines by pressure testing the gas lines. Some residents may receive a visitor from Arizona Pipeline contractor. This person will check to see if there are any problems with gas line connections in your home. They are not soliciting service, they have been cleared by the HOA through SoCalGas for annual inspections. It is important for homeowners to provide SoCalGas and its contractors access to the area around the meter to perform the inspection and services that are required. The inspections are scheduled to go on from April to the end of June.

If you have any questions, please contact SoCalGas at 1-800-427-2200.

Thank you,

Sun City Shadow Hills, HOA

 

It's not too late to leave a comment in support of Valeria Batross, our fitness director, for the Desert Health Wellness Awards.

The Desert Health Wellness Awards Executive Committee will select three finalists in each category to be announced in their May/June issue. Winners will then be announced at the grand celebration on May 22.

Click the link below and scroll down to the bottom of the page to leave a comment:

☞ deserthealthnews.com/stories/2019-desert-health-wellness-awards-nominees

Here are some of the comments left for Valeria thus far:

Leesann Shefa
January 8, 2019 at 10:48 am
Valeria Batross is a shining star of integrity and enthusiasm! I am honored to be a part of her team at Shadow Hills Community. Valeria has an unwavering commitment to health and wellness at all levels. It is wonderful to see her nomination here!

Heidi Rose Gerner
January 8, 2019 at 2:11 pm
Valeria Batross is a bona-fide asset to the Coachella valley. Her expertise, enthusiasm and professionalism are unparalleled. She gives something personal and special to every client/person that she meets. Her drive to improve her knowledge and credentials makes her exceptional. I have known her over 10 years, and I don’t know anyone more dedicated to her craft. Kudos to you Valeria for a well-deserved nomination!

Salli Rychlik
January 8, 2019 at 8:19 pm
I have known Valeria Batross close to 15 yrs. she has worked hard to be where she is and is totally dedicated to the health and well-being of her clients. Always encouraging and kind. I’ve moved away but miss my training sessions with her every day.

Traci Barnett Hone
January 10, 2019 at 12:43 pm
The health and fitness program at Sun City Shadow Hills continues to grow and flourish thanks to Valeria. Our classes are challenging and our instructors are top-notch. Valeria has raised the bar!

Jessica “Panda” Alfrey
January 10, 2019 at 8:54 pm
Valeria Batross is such an amazing example of Wellness, what a perfect nomination for an amazing individual. For as long as I have known Valeria, she has always been helping everyone around her and in her community with her knowledge of being healthy. She has so much to offer on every level of spiritual, physical and emotional well -being. Not only does she lead this life by example, but is always learning new ways to help and innovate the wellness community. I’m so proud to call her a friend, and know I can always turn to her with any questions of my own.

François Gay
January 23, 2019 at 6:34 am
In the 40 years I have been active in the fitness industry, I have met very few people that not only have a great knowledge and know how to inspire others to put it into practice but also live every day themselves what they are preaching! That’s right: Valeria does not only talk the talk but she walks the walk! They are not enough adjectives to describe her; let’ s just say that she is amazing!

Becky Alfrey
January 26, 2019 at 2:44 pm
I cannot name a Better person for this Award than Valeria Batross. Being the epitome of Consciousness and Discipline, Valeria doesn’t just Show Us the Way to Living a Healthier and High Quality Life, She Lives it Every Day by Example. Realizing the Importance of Truth, It is her Nature to share these Lifestyle Choices with Friends and All who have the privilege of getting to know her. Integrity is Priority. Sharing her Wisdom and her Life Path, makes her the Best Candidate for this Category.

Erin Smith
February 8, 2019 at 11:55 am
My vote is whole-heartedly for Valeria Batross who is our Fitness Director at Sun City Shadow Hills. As one of the lucky SCSH residents, I have personally witnessed all of the positive changes Valeria has made to bring Health and Wellness to a very diverse population of seniors! Our classes now fill up with energetic, enthusiastic participants, due to Valeria’s vision and the outstanding instructors she has hired. She is a tremendous asset to our community and is a very deserving candidate for this award!

Gary C Miller
February 11, 2019 at 2:05 pm
I too would like to put in my vote for Valeria Baltross, our Fitness Director at Sun City Shadow Hills. Every since our first contact with Valeria, as Aqua Fitness Instructor, we knew we had someone special. My wife’s and my goal was intense training and Valeria was “Sergeant Major” of Aqua Boot Camp, getting right in the pool with us and setting the pace. She is a delightful, thoughtful, supportive individual with great knowledge and experience and a desire to make every class and experience worthwhile. Thank you Valeria!

Wayne D. Chandler
February 11, 2019 at 2:12 pm
Being new to Sun City Shadow Hill’s I was aware my wife wanted to participate in the fabulous fitness facility we had viewed prior to our purchase. I made it a point to contact Valeria Batross the fitness director.

As the result of my contact, Valeria followed up with a text to my wife. My wife is now totally “All In” with regard to her personal fitness program at Shadow Hills.

As we all know many of us have all the good intentions of involving ourselves in a regular physical fitness regime. “Regular” being the key word. Valeria cuts to the chase and as a result removes the hesitation so many of us have. Valeria’s knowledge and delivery makes one believe they can accomplish their dream.

Cathy/Fred Nielsen
March 10, 2019 at 2:43 pm
Valeria Batross has done an amazing job managing the fitness program at
Sun City Shadow Hills. She has overseen many classes to enhance the wellness of the community retirees. She offers many educational seminars as well as
Fitness programs on a daily basis. The instructors are all knowledgeable and encouraging. I especially appreciate the Aquatic exercise programs.
Bravo Valeria. A true professional, hard working lady!

Tuesday, April 9, 2019
Montecito Clubhouse Ballroom

9:00 AM - Polls Open
10:00 AM - Polls Close, Meeting Call to Order
2:00 PM - Meeting Reconvenes, Results Announced

 

Read more about the election in a message from President Kim Fuller. ☞ Click Here to Read

Measure 1 – What is at Stake? ☞ Click Here to Read

 

Submit a valid ballot for the Annual Election and be entered into a raffle to win up to $500! *

* HOA Elections of California must receive 2200 valid ballots for the raffle to occur.

Contracts, Vendors, and Decisions

By Terry Coon, Information Advisory Committee (IAC) Member

When you see the many workers in our community who manicure the golf course, prune the trees, test and repair sprinklers, resurface tennis and pickleball courts, or maintain our roadways, ever wonder how those folks got their jobs here? How does our HOA Board decide who gets the work? I set out to examine the processes involved, and here’s what I found.

Request for Proposals (RFPs):

An RFP requests proposals from vendors to accomplish specific work and a price quote. RFPs are written and recommended by Board-approved advisory committees, and then reviewed and revised by HOA staff and consulting attorneys. If the Board accepts an RFP, the RFP is then released. The resulting proposals are carefully considered. After a proposal is selected, a recommendation is sent to the Board through a Board Action Form (BAF). After the Board approves a proposal, it then negotiates a contract between the HOA and the selected contractor/vendor. Contracts of this type have a 1-year period of performance, with options to extend (renew) the contract annually at the discretion of the Board.

Fortunately our Board has a great deal of help when services are required to keep our complex looking good and running smoothly, while managing costs. The help comes from the many residents who volunteer on the various advisory committees approved by the Board.

Current Advisory Committees:

Communications (CAC)	Health & Fitness (H & F)
Facilities & Services (F & S)	Information (IAC)
Finance (FAC)	Landscape (LAC)
Food & Beverage (F & B)	Safety (SAC)
Golf (GAC)

Of the $15.7 million allocated to the Sun City Shadow Hills Operating and Replacement Budget for Fiscal Year 2019, the four largest contracts are with:

·       Desert Resort Management	·       21% of budget
·       Troon Golf and Food & Beverage	·       12% of budget
·       Security	·       6.5% of budget
·       Landscape	·       6.5% of budget

This current fiscal year our community’s Landscape and Security contracts will expire, so much work has been underway the past several months by the Landscape Advisory and Safety Advisory committees to identify areas of concern from committee members, as well as from residents who have voiced concerns throughout the year.

Recently, the Landscape Advisory Committee completed work to ready the RFP for the landscape contract. The committee comprises six resident members and the chairperson, who each possess many skills and backgrounds in private business, plant science, engineering, biology, previous landscape committee experience, and even aerospace!

The committee was able to hire a landscape/design architect consultant to provide the guidance needed by committee members to establish the best possible Statement of Work for the RFP. The consultant provided guidance and recommendations that addressed the concerns of residents and committee members, such as inconsistent maintenance to the common areas of the complex, as well as to insect and rodent control. Once the contract is awarded, the landscape/design architect consultant along with the landscape maintenance contractor, will be asked to provide insight into which types of plants should be considered for replacement. In addition to the above concerns, the committee also examined the current irrigation system. With the upcoming summer months of high temperatures and calcification of chemicals in the drippers, special attention was also given in the RFP to ensure the irrigation system is checked at specific intervals to prevent lack of water and plant die-off.

As a result of the RFP process, six proposals were submitted. A proposal evaluation team (also referred to as the deselection team) reviewed the proposals. The team included two members from the Finance Advisory Committee, two members from the Landscape Advisory Committee, the General Manager, the Director of Facilities and Maintenance, and the Landscape Advisory Committee Board liaison. The team created a short list from the group of six proposals, choosing three vendors for interviews. The team then interviewed the short-listed vendors and made a selection recommendation to the Board, which will make the final decision very soon.

The Security Advisory Committee has also been busy formulating a recommended RFP for the Board. Committee members comprise five residents, four of whom are retired law enforcement personnel. The committee has focused the RFP with an emphasis on the following:

1. Appropriate coverage of safety personnel throughout the community during all shifts;
2. Training of all security personnel;
3. A quarterly review of the security services provided by the contractor;
4. Mandatory supervision of security personnel in connection with performance and procedures;
5. Ongoing employee post-order (guardhouse stations) procedures and protocols followed on a consistent basis.

The Security Advisory Committee has received four proposals. The deselection team, comprising HOA management and security personnel and Finance and Security committee members, narrowed the proposals to one vendor and made a recommendation to the Board for final approval of the contract.

Advisory committee volunteers are essential to the RFP and proposal selection process. We thank them for the time and energy they dedicate to the improvement of our community!

Fitness Class Survey

On behalf of the Health and Fitness Advisory Committee and myself, we would like to thank each and everyone who took part in our Fitness Class Survey and shared their compliments, comments, and suggestions. Your feedback will be evaluated and we will share the outcome with you in the coming weeks.

Spring: A Time for Renewal

Spring is a time for renewal, growth, and expansion – we feel it in the air. We seem to have that extra energy and focus to get physically active, take action, and create change. Spring is a great time to envision endless possibilities and to use our creative gifts to reach new levels of achievement, wellness, happiness, and success. Let us practice lightness of being and continue to make choices that lead to a constant state of healing.

Book your complimentary orientation to learn how to use the TRX suspension trainer at Montecito Fitness Center. Also, learn proper hand and foot work with the Century Versys punching bags which are well suited for functional training, agility, eye to hand coordination, and balance. Tutorial videos are available on our website and gloves are available at both fitness centers.

Updates

• A big shout out to the Sun City Shadow Hills Weight Watchers who have lost 534 lbs. combined since last October! If you or someone you know that resides here needs nutritional support, please contact our coach Sue White for details as to how to become part of this community meeting. You can email her at sue.a.white@weightwatchers.com.
• Tai-Chi on Tuesdays is now offered at 5:00 PM in the Montecito Fitness Center.

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Mind-Body Wellness Day: Spend the day renewing and revitalizing your mind, body, and sense. Join us on May 18 from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. ☞ Click here for details.
• Early Spring Special in Bloom: For the months of March and April, receive a 10% discount on Reformer Pilates packages. This offer is for first time participants. ☞ Click here for details.

“Spring: A lovely reminder of how beautiful change can truly be.” – Dayspring.com

Remember to check scshca.com/fitness for any fitness class cancellations.

Committed to your well-being,
Valeria

Awaken the Body, Calm the Mind, Enliven the Spirit

If you are like most of us Westerners, you’ve seen Tai Chi in the parks and often wondered, just what is it? My fascination with Tai Chi began after visiting San Francisco many years ago and seeing very elderly Chinese people in the park doing what looked like very slow-motion dancing. I certainly didn’t think of it as a fitness class – no weights, no running, no heavy breathing – but there must be something to it to have so many elderly people participating.

We are beginning a three-part series of articles on the benefits of Tai Chi in an effort to educate our residents on why we think Tai Chi is the PERFECT class for our aging population, and let’s face it, we are ALL aging!

Tai Chi is well known in medical studies for its benefits for balance, stamina, and mental focus. All practices are done standing and do not require any special equipment or clothing. Just wear something that is easy to move and stretch in.

Explore the fundamental principle of “Mindfulness Practice thru Breathing and Movement”, the foundation of “Life.” Tai Chi Qigong is an ancient Chinese health exercise performed in slow, even, fluid movement, with calmness of mind. It is designed to restore proper breathing, tonify the organs, strengthen the muscles, enhance flexibility of the spine and joints, stretch and relax fascia, tendons, and ligaments; while adding resilience to and rejuvenating bone and bone marrow, without stress, tension or strain, naturally.

Through the practice of Tai Chi we learn to: - calm the mind, balance the emotions and enhance mental clarity - relieve stress, reduce tension and increase energy levels - develop a more natural restorative breathing process - develop structural foundation, balance, rooting and centeredness - develop flexibility, fluidness in movement and greater range of motion - reduce physical aches and pain and promote overall wellness.

Michael E. Hamilton, Ph.D., Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Acupuncture Physician has been a practitioner of the Internal Arts of Oriental Medicine for over 45 years. Recognized as an international teacher having traveled the world sharing his knowledge in fifteen countries, Michael offers a unique experience integrating the classical wisdom of the East, with our contemporary lifestyle, for physical balance, mental equilibrium, emotional stability, and spiritual wellness.

Weekly Class Schedule: Montecito Clubhouse: Tuesdays from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM and at the Santa Rosa Clubhouse: Saturdays, from 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM.

In the next few weeks, we will be highlighting various SCSH residents who have participated in our Tai Chi classes and have benefited from this practice. Stay tuned for their stories.

* Residents are invited to attend the 14^th Annual Spring into Health, Tai Chi Qigong Symposium on Saturday, April 6 at 10:30 AM in the Montecito Fitness Group Exercise Room. For more information, please pick up a flyer in the Fitness Centers, or click here.

Should you have any questions or problems regarding any election materials, please contact:

HOA Elections of California, Inc.

Phone: (951) 667-7191

Email: info@hoaelections.com

Vote Today!

The new cardio equipment at Santa Rosa Fitness Center is here and ready to use!

Sign up for your complimentary group orientation at the Santa Rosa Fitness Desk.

 

Click Here to Download the Application

To see more videos, visit our Videos page by clicking here.

Learning a new skill contributes to your ability to learn things faster over time. By stimulating neurons in the brain, more neural pathways are formed. It is called Neuroplasticity; the ability of the brain to adapt and change.

Book your complimentary orientation to learn how to use the TRX suspension trainer at Montecito Fitness Center. Also, learn proper hand and foot work with the Century Versys punching bags which are well suited for functional training, agility, eye to hand coordination, and balance. Tutorial videos are available on our website and gloves are available at both fitness centers.

Updates

• The Saturday 80-minute yoga class is now divided into two 45 to 50-minute classes. We have one at 8:30 AM and one at 9:30 AM. Each class is $4.
• Tai-Chi on Tuesdays has been moved to 5:00 PM and will no longer be offered at 6:30 PM. This change took effect March 12.
• Thera-band with Dr. Eric will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 28, so plan to come earlier.

Instructor Highlight: Angel Vanderveer

Angel is a pioneer in the Coachella Valley Fitness Industry. I met Angel as an instructor when I was only 15 and stepped foot into a gym for the first time. I always looked forward to taking her classes. Her busy classes and amazing charisma kept us all coming back for more, day after day, year after year. I am glad to say she was an inspiration to me in making fitness my career. It truly is a rewarding experience. Little did I know that Angel and I would collaborate again years later to bring wellness and fitness to a great community such as this one. I am proud and honored to have Angel on my team. ☞ Click Here to Learn More About Angel

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Annual Fall Prevention Education and Screening: Learn about fall prevention and get screened. Join me Thursday, March 21, or Thursday, March 28, from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM in the Montecito Group Exercise Room. The education portion will be 30 minutes.  We will then proceed to screening which takes  two to three minutes per person. No RSVP needed. ☞ Click Here for Details
• Health and Wellness Lecture: Ayurveda - The Science of Life: Wednesday, April 3 at 4:00 PM in the Montecito Ballroom. RSVP required: valeria.batross@associa.us or at either fitness desk. ☞ Click Here for Details
• The 14th Annual Spring into Health Fair:  Saturday, April 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Montecito Ballroom. If you are involved in health, fitness, or wellness and would like to be a vendor for this event just stop by the Montecito Fitness Desk and register. ☞ Click Here for Details
• Fitness Survey: Do you want to have an Assisted Pull-up/Chin Dip Machine as a new addition to our fitness facility? Take the survey online and let us hear from you! ☞ Click Here to Take the Survey
• Early Spring Special in Bloom: For the months of March and April, receive a 10% discount on Reformer Pilates packages. This offer is for first time participants. ☞ Click Here for Details.

Tips for Creating New Habits

Our brains are equipped for automaticity-- for making the least effort possible. Habits can be hard to change but automaticity works for you, not against you. Learn how to  create new healthy habits:

• Make small changes: creating new habits can be done in small doses. If, for example, you want to create a habit of getting more sleep each night, start by going to bed 10 to15 minutes earlier than your current time. Then slowly increase that to 15 to 20 minutes and so on. Start with something that feels easy and nonthreatening;
• Staple it: tack your small change onto an activity that’s already a routine part of your day. That way, you will have to think less about when to make the change, and eventually it will become a new routine. For example, if you go for a daily walk, add the new habit of stretching your calf muscles right after you are done with the walk;
• Mornings are green light zones: the earlier in the day the strongest the motivation;
• Don’t decide--just do it: making decisions can be exhausting and in a weak moment the answer to your mental question might go against the intention of the goal. So just go ahead and  do it. You will be happy you persevered in creating the new habit;
• Celebrate it: have a mini-celebration each time you achieved a micro-goal. This boosts confidence and strengthens your resilience. Consciously say to yourself, “Yes!” or “I did it!” or “Done!

Reference book: The Telomere Effect by Nobel prize winner Elizabeth Blackburn, PhD and Elissa Epel, PhD.

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” – Jim Ryun

Remember to check scshca.com/fitness for any fitness class cancellations.

Committed to your well-being,
Valeria

Our community is fortunate to have 15 unique, talented, knowledgeable, and crafted instructors who share their passion with their class participants.

---

I’ve been a group exercise instructor for over 26 years. I was over-weight and decided to join 24 Hour Fitness Center where I met Valeria. By then I was already an instructor. I love teaching and helping people reach their fitness goals. I’ve been doing that ever since. I love my job.

As a homeowner, you have a lot to keep track of.  From bills and maintenance to insurance and just daily household tasks, it’s easy for things to fall through the cracks. These seven apps will help you get organized and make managing your household a breeze.

1. SmartThings

The SmartThings app helps you transform your home into a smart home and make your home more secure. From Ring doorbells and ecobee thermostats to Amazon Echoes, SmartThings connects with the most popular smart devices and allows you to control and monitor them easily from anywhere.

2. Mint

The Mint app helps you stay on top of your finances. It syncs with your credit cards and bank accounts so you can track your bills, create budgets, check your credit score, track your investments, and get tips and advice from experts.

3. Sortly

Sortly makes it easy to take inventory of everything in your home, storage, or during a move. Reduce clutter by digitally storing manuals and warranty information, access detailed notes about your collectible items and make moving easier by knowing the exact location of everything you own.

4. Evernote

Get organized with Evernote – the app that makes sure you keep track of everything in both your personal and work life. With features to create to-do lists, clip web pages with must-try recipes, scan your receipts, and so much more, you’ll have everything you need, all in one place.

5. Pixie

The Pixie app allows you to find things you’ve lost from your phone. You can attach the app to valuable things you’re always losing, like wallets, keys, cars, and remotes, and it will show you where they are – down to the inch.

6. Centriq

With Centriq, you just need to take photos of the labels on your home products like the water heater, dryer, and refrigerator and the app will provide you with manuals, accessories, and everything you need to know about each of your things.

7. HomeZada

Your home is a big investment, so it’s important to take care of it. The HomeZada app creates a personalized maintenance calendar and schedule for all maintenance tasks, provides instructions, and allows you to track your costs and take pictures. Other features also allow you to manage remodels, reduce energy bills, make sure you are correctly insured, and stay on top of all home finances.

Courtesy of associaonline.com.

Happy Monday Sun City Shadow Hills!

Santa Rosa Fitness Center has new cardio equipment: bikes, ellipticals, and a rower.  We also have punching gloves for the versys punching bags, and a TRX suspension trainer. Book your complimentary orientation to learn how to use the new cardio equipment and fun functional training equipment at either fitness desk.

Be sure to take the “Fitness Class Survey.” Click here: ☞ www.scshca.com/fitsurvey

Want to know how to create new healthy habits and learn about the wonderful events we have coming up? Please  read on . . .

Tips for Creating New Habits

Our brains are equipped for automaticity-- for making the least effort possible. Habits can be hard to change but make automaticity works for you, not against you. Learn how to  create new healthy habits:

• Make small changes: creating new habits can be done in small doses.. If, for example, you want to create a habit of getting more sleep each night, start by going to bed 10 to15 minutes earlier than your current time. Then slowly increase that to 15 to 20 minutes and so on. Start with something that feels easy and nonthreatening;
• Staple it: tack your small change onto an activity that’s already a routine part of your day. That way, you will have to think less about when to make the change, and eventually it will become a new routine. For example, if you go for a daily walk, add the new habit of stretching your calf muscles right after you are done with the walk;
• Mornings are green light zones: the earlier in the day the strongest the motivation;
• Don’t decide--just do it: making decisions can be exhausting and in a weak moment the answer to your mental question might go against the intention of the goal. So just go ahead and  do it. You will be happy you persevered in creating the new habit;
• Celebrate it: have a mini-celebration each time you achieved a micro-goal. This boosts confidence and strengthens your resilience.. Consciously say to yourself, “Yes!” or “I did it!” or “Done!”

Instructor Highlight: Leesann Shefa

Leesann Shefa joined our team this past summer and has been a wonderful addition to our growing yoga program. Her lightness of being truly carries out and transmits healing positive vibes to all who come to her class. Join her every Saturday at 8:30 AM for the Yang/Yin Vinyasa Yoga at Santa Rosa Fitness Center. ☞ Click Here to Learn More About Leesann

Updates

• The 80-minute yoga class is now divided into two 45 to 50-minute classes. We have one at 8:30 AM and one at 9:30 AM. Each class is $4.
• Tai-Chi on Tuesdays has been moved to 5:00 PM and will no longer be offered at 6:30 PM. This change took  effect March 12.
• Thera-band with Dr. Eric will be held at 1:00 PM on Thursday, March 21 and 28, so plan to come earlier.

Upcoming Events and Activities

• Annual Fall Prevention Education and Screening: Learn about fall prevention and get screened. Join me Thursday, March 21, or Thursday, March 28, from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM in the Montecito Group Exercise Room. The education portion will be 30 minutes.  We will then proceed to screening which takes  two to three minutes per person. No RSVP needed. ☞ Click Here for Details

• The 14th Annual Spring into Health Fair:  Saturday, April 6 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM in the Montecito Ballroom. If you are involved in health, fitness, or wellness and would like to be a vendor for this event just stop by the Montecito Fitness Desk and register. ☞ Click Here for Details
• Fitness Survey: Do you want to have an Assisted Pull-up/Chin Dip Machine as a new addition to our fitness facility? Take the survey online and let us hear from you! ☞ Click Here to Take the Survey
• Early Spring Special in Bloom: For the months of March and April, receive a 10% discount on Reformer Pilates packages. This offer is for first time participants. ☞ Click Here for Details.

Reference book: The Telomere Effect by Nobel prize winner Elizabeth Blackburn, PhD and Elissa Epel, PhD.

“Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going.” – Jim Ryun

Remember to check scshca.com/fitness for any fitness class cancellations.

Committed to your well-being,
Valeria