SCSH News

Power Outage 7/1/2020

At approximately 8:40 a.m., there was a power outage that affected the north side of Sun City Shadow Hills. Imperial Irrigation District (IID) emergency crew disconnected the power to an electrical transformer for an unscheduled emergency repair along 40th Avenue. At approximately 9:05 a.m., IID completed the repairs and power was restored.

If you are still without power, please check your main breaker or call IID at 1-800-303-7756.

View Delivery Volunteers Needed

Volunteers are needed to deliver The View each month in the areas listed below. Volunteers are notified at the end of the month when the magazines for their area are ready for pickup at the Santa Rosa Clubhouse.

If you are interested in volunteering, please email view@scshca.com or call 760-345-4349 ext. 2204.

 

Area #9 near Camino San Mateo in Phase 1

 

Area #16 near Camino San Gregorio in Phase 1

 

We are also looking for substitute volunteers to fill in when a regular volunteer is on vacation and unable to deliver an area.

June 2020 Board Meeting Video Now Available

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

Lifestyle Desk Summer Hours

Beginning Sunday, June 21, the Montecito Lifestyle Desk will be closed on Sundays.

The Lifestyle Desk and business center are open the following hours:

  • Monday – Saturday:  8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
  • Sundays:  Closed

Riverside County Cooling Centers

The Sun City Shadow Hills Emergency Preparedness Subcommittee is posting this for the benefit of our residents based on a Riverside County press release.

Cooling Centers Now Open Throughout Riverside County Offer Escape from Extreme Heat

With temperatures expected to remain in the triple digits through portions of the County, cooling centers opened on June 1 with modifications to accommodate coronavirus safety guidelines.

The 14 centers are open to the public at no cost. The centers will be available through October as temperatures warrant.

“Cooling centers make it possible for residents to escape extreme heat and high temperatures during the summer months, particularly those among the most vulnerable populations, like seniors,” said Kim Saruwatari, Director of Public Health. “Safety precautions in the time of coronavirus are being implemented to further protect visitors.”

Among the safety guidelines, all visitors and staff at the cooling centers are asked to wear face coverings and practice social distancing. High temperatures can be hazardous for many people, especially the elderly and those with medical conditions. Heat-related injuries such as heatstroke, an illness that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, can strike quickly and pose life-threatening consequences.

The cooling centers are coordinated by the Community Action Partnership of Riverside County, in conjunction with Riverside University Health System – Public Health, and are located in schools plus senior and community centers. Light refreshments and water are available at some locations. For a list of cooling center locations, visit www.capriverside.org/Portals/2/PDF/Cool/2020%20Cool%20Center_Directory-V3.pdf?ver=2020-06-05-123828-427&timestamp=1591385942481.

Memorial Day 2020

Although we are unable to hold our Memorial Day Flag Ceremony this year, we would like to take the time to honor and remember all those who served and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Join us Monday, May 25 at 8:00 AM at the link below for the Veterans Club virtual ceremony, followed by a tribute from the SCSH Community Singers.

☞ www.scshca.com/memorialday

Flag Notifications

**** Please Note, There are two Half-Staff Events ****

1. President Trump orders flags to fly at half-staff to honor CoronaVirus victims

"I will be lowering the flags on all Federal Buildings and National Monuments to half-staff over the next three days in memory of the Americans we have lost to the CoronaVirus," the President tweeted the evening of Thursday, May 22nd.

*** Flags should be at Half-Staff Immediately for the Next Three Days per the President's Tweet.

 

2. Memorial Day United States Flag Display

Memorial Day, which is observed on the last Monday of May, commemorates the men and women who died while in the military service. In observance of Memorial Day, fly the United States flag at half staff from sunrise until NOON , and then raise it to full height from noon to sundown.

United States Flag Code
Section 7.M

The flag, when flown at half-staff, should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then slowly lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. On Memorial Day the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff.\

Click here to see the entire US Flag Code....

*** Flags should be at Half-Staff From Sunrise Until Noon on Monday, May 25th.

Flag Notification

Fly the United States Flags at Half-Staff Friday, May 15, 2020 in Honor of Police Officers Memorial Day

Proclamation on Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week, 2020

On Peace Officers Memorial Day and during Police Week, we commend the brave men and women of our law enforcement community for continually summoning the courage to fulfill their solemn oath to protect and serve. We also pause to remember all those who have lost their lives and who have suffered permanent disabilities defending their communities and the rule of law, including the heroes we have lost this year to the coronavirus.

Throughout our Nation's history, law enforcement officials have never wavered in the face of crisis or tragedy. During uncertain times, law enforcement officers bravely face challenges and continue to protect the American people. They steadfastly ensure the safety of our communities, providing a much needed sense of security for our citizens, and our country is extremely grateful for their efforts.

My Administration remains committed to ensuring our Nation's Federal, State, local, and tribal law enforcement officers have the resources and support they need to perform their duties safely and effectively. Last October, I was proud to sign an Executive Order to establish the Presidential Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice - the first commission on law enforcement in half a century. This Commission identifies ways to reduce crime while simultaneously bringing law enforcement officers and the communities they serve closer together. We have also worked to expand lifesaving programs like the National Blue Alert Network. Thirty-five States have enacted Blue Alert plans, which provide early warnings to law enforcement agencies, the media, and the public by transmitting Blue Alerts to cell phones, television stations, and other devices. These alerts disseminate information on suspects who pose an imminent and credible threat to the safety of our officers, and this network demonstrates how we can work together to provide proactive programs, innovative resources, and cutting-edge technology to support and advance our law enforcement personnel.

We must continue working toward a time when all people respect and understand the important work that law enforcement officers do. Unfortunately, our law enforcement officers do not always receive the respect they deserve. These brave men and women must operate in an environment where their moral and legal authority is constantly being scrutinized, and they undertake the critical yet difficult task of addressing the actions of those affected by addiction, homelessness, and mental illness. Their ability to work well in the face of these and other challenges is extraordinary, and we have incredible appreciation for their public service and selflessness.

On behalf of our grateful Nation, we proudly recognize the more than 900,000 sworn members of law enforcement for their resolve and dedication in the face of dangerous uncertainty. The thoughts and prayers of our Nation are with them and their families, and we will always owe them our appreciation and support.

By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (Public Law 87-726, 76 Stat. 676), and by section 1 of Public Law 105-225 (36 U.S.C. 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as "Police Week."

NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 15, 2020, as Peace Officers Memorial Day and May 10 through May 16, 2020, as Police Week. In honor of our hardworking law enforcement officers, Melania and I will light the White House in blue on May 15, 2020. I call upon all Americans to observe Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week with appropriate ceremonies and activities. I also call on the Governors of the States and Territories and officials of other areas subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, to direct that the flag be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers Memorial Day. I further encourage all Americans to display the flag from their homes and businesses on that day.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
eighth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-fourth.

DONALD J. TRUMP

Drone Activity on May 3, 2020

A drone surveyor will be on site on Sunday, May 3. A drone will be flown over the Phase I and Phase III North Golf Course perimeter landscape areas. This is to gather information for the 2020 ground cover replacement project. The field measurements will help verify the scale of the areas.

Poem: “SCSH Masks of Honor”

By Gina Star Pollack

Throughout the Coachella Valley, the pandemic was raging,
Our community was silent, all residents self-isolating.
Then an edict came down from our leaders, statewide,
That all should wear masks, so the spread will decline.

Our clubs heard the call for volunteers to help out,
To make masks to keep germs from spreading throughout.
The members of Needles and Pins quickly jumped in,
Then rose to the challenge gathering supplies to begin.

They eagerly teamed up and divided the mission,
Cutting cotton squares and sewing masks for our protection.
Bright colors and fun designs with easy to use ties,
We lined up to get one with smiles and relieved sighs.

I grinned as I donned my new virus protective gear,
Proud of our community for proactively easing our fears.
I can’t wait to wear my mask at the market next week,
I’ll send photos to my family who’ll be envious I look chic.

Three cheers for the members of Needles and Pins,
Like Betsy Ross, they’ve aided the Shadow Hills citizens.
They’ve protected our health and curtailed the spread of the coronavirus,
We thank them profusely; their creativity has inspired us.

Contact the author at g-star15@sbcglobal.net.

The Mystery of Resilience

By Gina Star Pollack

The author at a Halloween party last year.

Sometimes I’m afraid of the dark. I wake at 2:15 am and hear creaks in the floorboards and whispers in the air, and I see looming shadows on the wall. But, when I turn on the bedside lamp and rub my eyes, everything looks fine. There is no scary monster in the room or masked intruder trying to climb through the window.

Now, everything is upside down. It’s the bright light of day that frightens me. Being close to people is scary, even my beloved family and friends. Those who used to comfort me in times of stress could infect me with a deadly virus, sending me to the hospital. I shrink from their once soothing embrace, frightened that germs could crawl up my nose or get sucked into my throat, infecting me with the coronavirus; and I might die.

Our new reality is covered in gloves and masks, measured by distance and tiny droplets. At times I try to deny the severity of the constant warnings by physicians and politicians who claim that self-isolation is the key to safety. But I cannot deny the fact that I’m 65 years old and part of the group at the highest risk for infection. So I obey the shelter in place edict and suffer alone.

"Path to the Lake," photo by David Blumenthal

After the first week, I ventured outside to go to the market. I cautiously opened the garage door, breathed in the fresh air, and drove through our community gate into a changing world. When I waved to a neighbor jogging, I finally allowed myself to cry. Hot, wet, messy tears. I cried for myself, for those who are ill and for those who have died from the virus. I mourned for humanity. This deadly infection has stripped more from us than our friends, family, jobs, and entertainment. It has robbed us of our false sense of superiority, thinking that we have control over our lives. Sadly we’re learning that no one is immune.

Most of us here are baby boomers who have led the country through brilliant decades. We’ve forged careers advancing science, technology, entertainment, fashion, music, and space exploration. From Woodstock and bell bottoms to smartphones and hi-def, we’re the generation who championed education and the physical and emotional freedoms to inspire the generations that will follow.

We proudly pursued jobs as teachers, lawyers, physicians, politicians, and entertainers, putting off retirement. We championed rights for the oppressed, held concerts to raise funds after world-wide disasters, broke the glass ceiling, and passed legislation to improve our government. And we saved money in our 401ks and IRAs for our retirement years. We moved to SCSH in hopes of spending our golden years pursuing the sports and hobbies we put on the back burner while raising families and climbing the corporate ladder.

Ironically, we are the age group most at risk during this pandemic. COVID-19 is a swirling black cloud raining down on our retirement dreams. It is a biological volcano that forces distance between neighbors, rather than the usual camaraderie.

"North Golf Course Fountain," photo by Glenn Jones

I’m saddened when I pass the vacant emerald golf courses and the fountains spraying tears instead of liquid diamonds. I’m forlorn when I see the empty tennis and pickleball courts where boisterous players competed. The Montecito and Santa Rosa Clubhouses have empty tables and hollow hallways, no longer filled with laughter and the click of Mah Jong tiles or canasta cards. And no one is complaining about the TVs not working in the gyms, or the broken machines. There are only silence and dust bunnies.

But I’m an optimist and seek the silver lining, which will undoubtedly emerge when this pandemic is under control. We will learn to respect each other’s choices. Be more compassionate and philanthropic, and remember the lessons of practicing good hygiene. Yet we are only human and have selective memory. History has shown that, when we feel safe again, most people will resume their former habits and joke about the terrible days of forced isolation during the siege.

But I will keep these horrific memories close in my consciousness to remind me to live joyfully. To hug and kiss my loved ones every chance I get. To laugh at silly jokes, savor every bite of food, and stroke my cat whenever she curls around my legs. I will never forget this pandemic. I vow to make it the beginning of a better me.

"Montecito Clubhouse at Night," photo by Anna Kelly

Please don’t lose faith, my friends, for we are resilient. The doctors and scientists will work tirelessly to find a cure. Sometime in the next few months, we will be able to join hands with family and friends and move to a new period of hope and caring. Then I will cry tears of joy as I stroll through our community. I’ll wave to the golfers, and I’ll smile and cheer the pickleballers racing around the court. I’ll greet sweaty neighbors exercising in the gym and never complain about the TVs. I’ll attend my cherished book and writers clubs, eager to share views and experiences. And I’ll sit in my backyard soaking up the bright sunlight while watching the rabbits and roadrunners cavort with abandon.

Throughout this ordeal, I remain grateful for my blessings of family, friends, pets, and our scenic desert oasis. Stay safe and hopeful because this tribulation shall end and make us more resilient for the next challenge.

Sending you all a virtual hug and wishes for a delightful future filled with health, joy, and toilet tissue.

Contact the author at g-star15@sbcglobal.net.

 

Shadows Restaurant Update

We are adjusting the hours and menu for Shadows Restaurant effective 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 9.

New Hours Starting Thursday, April 9:

  • Monday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Limited Breakfast Menu Available “All Day” (10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.)
  • Lunch & All day Menu starts at 10:00 a.m. (as opposed to 11:00 a.m.)

New Menu Starting Thursday, April 9: