Unit 3 Holiday Gathering
Linda Babcock
Neighbors in Unit 3 enjoyed a very social holiday evening on Dec. 3. We gathered for appetizers and a bring-it-yourself drink at the home of Rich and Maureen Wilson. Next, secret slips were drawn indicating which of four homes you would gather for the main entrée, salad, and bread. Volunteer hosts for the dinner portion of the progressive evening were Cary and Alice Haywood, Bob and Barb Spano, Ed and Pam Steinburg, and Linda Babcock. From dinner, we proceeded to the highly decorated 155th Lane for dessert, gift exchange, caroling, and of course, Santa! The evening was perfect. Friendships were enjoyed, new neighbors were welcomed, and everyone had a great time at this annual social to kick off the holiday season.
Unit 8 Luncheon
The ladies of Unit 8 kicked off the holiday season with a luncheon at Macayo’s Mexican Food restaurant. Everyone in Unit 8 is invited to join us at our monthly social event. For information on upcoming luncheons, please contact Jane Holdcroft at [email protected]. (Photo by Alisa Moore)
Unit 18 Cul-De-Sac Party
John Fox
Unit 18’s 2023-24 scheduled fun calendar kicked off with a cul-de-sac party. If you listen closely, you can still hear the echoes of Unit 18’s social season kick-off. Unit 18 started its social season on Nov. 7 with drinks, snacks, laughter, and bad jokes, as old friends reunited once again in our 2nd annual cul-de-sac party. The music played in the background while the sun softly set, and the stars slowly came out. Appetizers, margaritas, chips and dip, potluck offerings from old family recipes, and sweet desserts were shared and consumed before the night was out. Moments like these are too few. They create a bond, a sense of community, and the feeling that you belong here. These are good people, these are our neighbors, and, if we’re lucky, they’re our friends.
Our thanks go out to Tim and Jenny Munson, Beverly Drury, and so many others for setting up and organizing the party. If all goes well, it’s going to be a great season with a caroling party, golf cart holiday lights tour, ladies’ home tour, men’s beer tasting, and other events planned. Unit 18 rocks!
Unit 20 Ladies’ Lunch
Peggy Pase
The ladies of Unit 20 continue their monthly luncheons. We met at Cheddars on Oct. 19 and enjoyed delicious homestyle entrees, catching up with neighbors, and planning for the next one. Thanks to Mary Kay Kittleson for the restaurant choice and making the arrangements. Photo by Peggy Pase.
Unit 27D Enjoys a Sunset Dinner
After the long summer months, it was great to see so many Unit 27D neighbors back in town for the fall/winter months. We enjoyed catching up during a sunset dinner at the
Oasis Pool.
Unit 34 Christmas Decorations
Bob Young
Christmas isn’t just a holiday filled with baking cookies, gift-wrapping, and enjoying dinners with family and friends. Many PebbleCreek residents and their families came over
to enjoy our animated toy displays featured on all 56 homes in our Unit, our decorated mailboxes, and our houses all lit up for Christmas. Thanks to all our residents and Keith Constable and his committee for judging all the wonderful mailbox displays. The winner will be announced soon and the coveted Best Unit 34 Decorated Mailbox Trophy will be presented at our annual lasagna party
Unit 40 Holiday Breakfast
DeeDee Fast
On Dec. 3, 35 unit 40 neighbors met at the Tuscany Falls Chianti Room for our annual holiday breakfast and food drive. We had a delicious meal, a great time visiting, and a successful food drive for the Agua Fria Food Bank.
Unit 42B Oasis Pool Breakfast
Tom Bose
With the return of so many of our snowbirds, the residents of Unit 42B finally got together again. We met for breakfast at the Oasis Pool on Dec. 2. It was a cold morning, but the food and camaraderie was body and heart warming. It was great seeing so many of our neighbors once again. We’re looking forward to getting together again in 2024.
Unit 44’s Golf Cart Parade and Holiday Party
Jean Harris
‘Twas a few weeks before Christmas, when all through Unit 44, many neighbors were gathering, after walking through Deborah and Scott Crabtree’s front door. The drinks were chilling in the coolers with care, in hopes that the pizza soon would be there. The appetizers were loaded on plates and the pizza delivered, the drinks were being drunk as, in the cool night air, the guests shivered… When what to their wondering eyes did appear, but a row of decorated golf carts with holiday garland and reindeer. With a not-so-old driver couple so lively and quick, we knew in a moment they must be Don Paxton and Nancy Preston, his Santa sidekick. Soon he and Nancy sprang to their golf cart, to their neighbors gave a shout, and away they all paraded through PebbleCreek driving out and about. At the end of the night, everyone heard themselves say, as they drove back to their abodes, “Fun Drinks on the Driveway, Deborah and Scott! See you later on PebbleCreek’s roads!”
Unit 44 and “The Golden Bachelor”
Jean Harris
On Nov. 30, 2023, a group in Unit 44 gathered at the home of Dan and Jean Harris to watch The Golden Bachelor finale. The reality TV show provided great entertainment to this older crowd, who yelled, cheered, hissed and booed, clapped and snarled … and not just at each other! It was great fun with great friends, as life in PebbleCreek should be.
Unit 48 Holiday Party
Rochelle Zuckerbrow
On Dec. 4, Unit 48 celebrated the holiday season together at the Tuscany Falls Ballroom. We had more than 90 neighbors in attendance. We enjoyed a delicious dinner and excellent service provided by the catering staff. Our very own Brian Wentz of the Happy Hour Band entertained us, and we danced the night away. We are so lucky to live in such a wonderful neighborhood where we all care about one another and have made amazing friendships. A huge thanks to Nancy Turner and the team that planned such a fun event.
Unit 49 Holiday Party
Holiday dinner centerpiece made by Judy DeGeorge
Robin Macik
On Nov. 29, Unit 49 held their holiday party. Coincidentally, the number of residents who attended matched our Unit number: 49. The evening started off with appetizers and cocktails in the library area to socialize. At 6:30 p.m., everyone headed into the Chianti Room for dinner, where they enjoyed delicious entrees of porter ale short ribs, grilled salmon, or butternut squash ravioli. Dinner was followed by a dessert of either cheesecake or sorbet. The evening wasn’t over yet—DJ Chuck Busker started the music, and the dancing began. The dancing queens of the evening were Tanya, Marie, Laurel, and Robin T. A fun evening was had by all!
Thank you to Robin Thomas for heading up the organization of the holiday dinner along with the entire social committee. Also, thank you to Judy DeGeorge who made all the table centerpieces. Each one was different and made the tables look beautiful and festive.
Unit 49 is looking forward to 2024 and all the social activities the committee has planned.
Unit 53 Christmas Cookie and Ornament Exchange
Valerie Spiegel
The women of Unit 53 gathered at Michael Stephens’ home in early December to honor our friend and neighbor, Sandy Stephens. Sandy passed away on Oct. 26 in her home with Michael by her side. Sandy annually treated our unit to a Christmas cookie party to welcome the holiday season. So this year, in her absence, Michael graciously invited us to continue the tradition as a tribute to her life and legacy.
Unit 53 ROMEO Lunch
In early December, 12 men of Unit 53 met at Augie’s for their monthly ROMEO luncheon. No extensive knowledge of Shakespeare is required to join this outing, because ROMEO is actually an acronym for Really Old Men Eating Out. However, some background knowledge of football is helpful. Many loyal Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Kansas City Chiefs fans were in attendance this month so “armchair quarterbacking” was a large part of the conversation.
Unit 54 Ladies’ Lunch
Barb Dunson
On Dec. 8, 19 ladies from Unit 54 met at Eagle’s Nest to enjoy conversations and lunch together while catching up on past summer travel adventures, upcoming family weddings, and planned Christmas travels. Two new faces were recently added from resales to the mix: Lisa Britt and Susan Sundsten. The balance of attendees is Debi Strada, Nancy Bartusch, Sherry Trefz, Pat Gray, Lorraine Schultheiss, Mary O’Neill, Helen Limjoco, Kathy Cheek, Patty Vitale, Mary Jane Broom, Cindy Strong, Julie Kemper, Cindy Hurst, Kathy Magee, Joette Lookabaugh, and Barb Dunson. Kathy Worwa’s cookies of a red painted mitten or a green Christmas cookie were left at each place setting to complete the meal.
Unit 54 Men’s Breakfast
We welcomed back a few guys and introduced a couple new neighbors to our monthly Unit 54 men’s breakfast on Nov. 15. We had a great turnout and some spirited conversation.
Unit 58 Men’s Breakfast
Clockwise from lower left: Alan Krob, Frank Grady, Timo Koenigseder (guest), David Linth, Ed Raker, Lou Tronzo, Russ Dyson, Charlie Lowe, Dennis Roelker, Charlie Lynch, Frank Rodgers, Bill Mooberry, Al Williams, and Bill Grant
Ed Raker
Maybe it’s the universal cravings that so many of us have for pancakes, waffles, eggs, and bacon that are behind it. But the Unit 58 men’s breakfast is a popular monthly event. We had another strong turnout on Nov. 16, but this was only the second time at this new venue. We met at Times Square. No, it wasn’t the one in Manhattan, but the one in Litchfield Park. Denise, our hostess, took excellent care of us, including snapping the obligatory group picture. It’s likely we’ll return soon.
Unit 59: Meeting Neighbors, Starting Friendships
November ladies’ lunch, left to right, front row: Maria Datzer, Laurel Hooper, Connie Stoy, Lori Anders; second row: Cathy Countryman Cook, Jenine Nguyen, Michelle Antunes, Lynn Gresko, Claudia Bollander; third row: Beverly Jeffcoat, Barb Amsden, Deb Bonafide, Mary Kay Colgan, Debbi Bolton, fourth row: Lori Orr, Dottie Palamara, Melinda Jenkins, Sue Colbo, Linda Gill, Linda Brisnehan, Vatia Flach, Jeanne Rice, Estelle Rebenstorf
As more homes are built in our unit we have the joy of meeting new neighbors and starting new friendships. On Nov. 12, the ladies of Unit 59 gathered for lunch at the Eagle’s Nest restaurant. Amidst laughter, we exchanged stories of where we moved from; where we’ve shopped, dined and explored; and if we’re done unpacking boxes. From Cathy Countryman Cook who’s lived in Unit 59 for over a year to Melinda Jenkins who’s lived here for only three days, we all took the time to share and welcome each other. We’ve also hosted a men’s breakfast and an all unit Oktoberfest dinner event. Other events include a Golden Bachelor night, the 12 Days of Christmas movie series, another men’s breakfast, and a monthly Bunco night. Here’s to building our Unit 59 community and strengthening our PebbleCreek community.
Unit 60 Holiday Dinner & Dance
Sherri Hille
The Unit 60 Holiday Dinner & Dance was held on Dec. 3 in the Chianti Room at Tuscany Falls. The evening included a delicious dinner, music from the Happy Hour Band, and a reverse raffle.
Unit 60 Welcome Back Potluck
Sherri Hille
Unit 60 held a Welcome Back Potluck for returning snowbirds on Nov. 17 at the Oasis Pool.
Unit 60 Halloween Event
Sherri Hille
The Unit 60 Halloween Event was held on October 31. Russ and Roxanne Lowenstein and Ralph Laquaglia were the costume contest winners!
Unit 62A Places Third at Augie’s Trivia Night
Toni Erickson
62A achieved a commendable third place in the DJ Trivia Night held on Nov. 29! At Augie’s Sports Bar, where the competition unfolds, neighbors gathered before the 6 p.m. start, allowing time to order dinner and drinks. DJ Trivia, recognized for its engaging format featured in establishments nationwide, proved to be a fun and interactive experience at our Augie’s. The live DJ host presented diverse trivia categories, spanning movies, history, music, TV, science, and more. Securing the third spot, we successfully answered the final question, identifying the eyes of Kevin O’Leary. The “Smarty Pants” (our team name) representing 62A were Paula Hupka and Gerry Hibbard, Vic and Marilyn Coates, Dale and Tim Scanlon, Jackie and Tom McKenzie, Laurie Wyman, Bruce and Lynn Banks, Paul Hull, and Toni and Bob Erickson.
Unit 62A Ladies November Lunch
Toni Erickson
On Nov. 16, we had a delightful ladies’ lunch at the Vig restaurant in Park West. The place, open for just a couple of months, is charming and new. With two other restaurants in the Phoenix area, perhaps you’re familiar with or visited a sister restaurant across town. It’s fortunate that this dining experience is making its way west toward PebbleCreek. After our delightful ladies’ lunch, a few of the ladies enjoyed exploring the area through some leisurely shopping. While there may not be specific favorite finds, the joy of the day was in the exploration and the discoveries along the way.
62A November Books and Booze
Toni Erickson
The gathering hosted by our new neighbor, Pat Pakin, on Nov. 14 for the 62A lady readers was a delightful Books and Booze night. Centered around our shared love for books, we not only exchange reading recommendations, but also enjoy the secondary delights of beverages and snacks. It’s a fantastic way to connect and share our passion for reading and gabbing. Those partaking in this night’s event were, left to right, Dale Scanlon, Cathe Pruyn, Toni Erickson, Patti Trapp, Julie Greenbank, Janelle Watts, Dee Andes, hostess Pat Pakin, Jackie Bachmann, Kim Ebert, and Barb Downey.
Other 62A News
Toni Erickson
Vic and Marilyn Coates hosted a chili cook-off on Nov. 7, featuring seven unique entries. Alongside the hearty chilis, others contributed appetizers, cornbread, and desserts, each paired with the beverage of their choice. While Tim and Dale Scanlon claimed the cook-off victory, all six other entries were praised for their exceptional flavors and variety.
Unit 62A’s Thanksgiving Canned Food Drive for St. Mary’s Food Bank was a tremendous success once again! We’re grateful for the generosity shown through more than 190 donated canned goods, perishable items, and $1,375, which was used to purchase turkeys for those in need. St Mary’s Food Bank extends their appreciation for all caring contributions this past Thanksgiving. Special thanks to the activities committee (Barb Downey, Julie Greenbank, Marilyn Coates, Laurie Wyman, and Janelle Watts) for their support. Living in a community with neighbors and friends who are always ready to help those in need is truly a blessing.
Unit 62B Tailgate Party
Judy Freidman
The residents of unit 62B were treated to an awesome afternoon at our first tailgate party. We were all encouraged to wear shirts representing our favorite teams. We brought our own chairs and beverages to Sunrise Park, and picked our favorite spot to settle in for a few hours. The social committee arranged to have the Fire Up Freedom Fire Truck provide our lunch. They arrived at the park honking their horn and made a grand entrance with curious neighbors checking it out. While we were playing corn hole, jenga, and horseshoes they were cooking up delicious hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken. It was a perfect afternoon and will become an annual unit event.
Unit 62B Holiday Luncheon
Judy Freidman
The ladies of Unit 62B enjoyed a wonderful luncheon in the beautifully decorated Chianti Room. There was time to socialize, and slowly make our way to our tables, where there were wooden holiday ornaments and a variety of markers, glitter pens, and stickers, which were used to decorate ornaments that were to be taken home.
Our emcee, Patrice Chatterton, told us about the timeline of the afternoon as well as future events. One of the highlights was presenting Lin Ochs with a gift card of appreciation for all she has done for our unit since it was built out seven years ago. She sends out information from the HOA, ADOT, and any other source she knows will affect us. She also sends out our monthly newsletter, 62B calendar, and the many invitations for unit functions.
As the saying goes, “It takes a village,” and we have many neighbors who have stepped up to keep our unit active. Those in charge of the various monthly activities are: Mary Cornwell, Bev Pliska (Ladies Book Club), Kathy Morris, Nancy Moore (Ladies Hand, Knee, and Foot), Dennis McClung (Men’s Hand, Knee, and Foot), Sandy Sobocinski (Ladies’ Luncheons), and Judy Freidman (Bunco and Mah Jongg).
After lunch, Patrice passed out trivia score sheets with three rounds. All the questions were based on holiday trivia and to say we learned a lot is an understatement. It was fun to see everyone working together at the tables to come up with one answer.
Santa Claus was a surprise guest, and helped to pass out prizes to the winners.
Villas 43B Ladies’ Luncheon
Georgia Horvath
It was so nice to get together with our neighbors for a ladies’ luncheon at Eagle’s Nest on Nov. 15 and 16! We had such a great response, we had to have two separate days since the restaurant limits us to 20. These pictures were taken on the 15th, but I forgot to take pictures on the 16th—sorry girls!
We decided to do this three times a year, with the next lunch event in February.