Retirement & Life Care Journal

Mike Mankenberg Named SVL Director of Nursing

2012-02-16T13:11:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623)933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org

www.sunvalleylodge.org

Mike Mankenberg Named SVL Directorof Nursing

Sun City, Arizona – Tuesday, February16, 2012 – Sun Valley Lodge has named Mike Mankenberg its Directorof Nursing. Mike is a registered nurseand will oversee the care of Sun Valley Lodge Health Care Center residents.

Mike is a Glendale resident and agraduate of the University of South Dakota. He has worked at various long-term care facilities across the valley providingstaff education and holding the assistant directors of nursing and directors ofnursing positions. He takes over forBobbi Jackson who retired in January after serving the Lodge for 11 years.

The programs are free and open tothe public. Sun Valley Lodge is locatedat 12415 N. 103^rd Avenue in Sun City. Formore information please call (623) 933-0137.

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Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T11:55:00.000-08:00

Sun Valley Lodge Celebrates Arizona's Centennial

2012-02-14T10:56:00.000-08:00

DiscoverArizonaSpeakers Announced

Sun City, Arizona – Tuesday, February 14, 2012 – Sun ValleyLodge announced today that it will againhost Discover Arizona. The DiscoverArizona series will kick off on Wednesday, April 4^th at 10:00 AMwith a program entitled “Along Old Route 66” presented by John Craft, a professorat the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. The series is made possible through a grantfrom the Arizona Humanities Council.

MarketingDirector Mike Kloberdanz said, “We are proud to be able to offer this kind ofhigh quality programming to both our residents and the community, and to bepart of Arizona’s centennial celebration. Sun Valley Lodge is grateful to the Arizona Humanities Council for theirhelp putting the series together.”

All programs on the following schedule begin at 10:00 AM:

· April 4^th“Along Old Route 66”

· April 11^th“Desperado Trails: Outlaws on the Arizona Frontier”

· April 18^th“Planes, Trains, and Automobiles' (and Stage Coaches and Boats, too): Women Travel in Arizona”

The programs are free and open to the public. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103^rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

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February 2012 Health Care Center Activities

2012-02-02T13:44:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

February 2012 Independent/Assisted Living Activities

2012-02-01T15:36:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Bobbi Jackson Retires, Perfect Score for the Healthcare Center

2012-01-31T12:06:00.000-08:00

Bobbi Jackson Makes a Perfect Exit

Sun Valley Lodge staff, residents, and families gathered last week tocelebrate the career of their long-time Director of Nursing, Bobbi Jackson, whostepped down after 12 years of guiding the SVL Healthcare Center. Bobbi left on a high note after receiving yetanother perfect score on the annual Arizona Department of Health Servicessurvey just days before retiring. Theinspection found the Lodge’s skilled nursing center to have no deficiencies; astrong testimonial to the care Bobbi provided for all of her residents.

Lodge Executive Director Michael Fahey who has worked with Bobbi forover 30 years at SVL and other facilities credits her with much of the Lodge’sexcellent reputation. “WhenI think of Bobbi I think of the following: competent; confident; trustworthy;clinically sharp (the best I’ve seen clinically in my 33 years of working);fair minded in her management style; strong as a manager and a leader; able tomake the tough decisions which are the best for Sun Valley Lodge but often painfulto make personally; worked well with her own department and all otherdepartments.”

Michael not onlycredited the Health Care Center’s excellent reputation to Bobbi, but thankedher for getting the Assisted Living off to a great start several years ago. Bobbiserved as the clinician for three years because the Lodge did not have alicensed nurse on staff.

Michael spoke for allof the Lodge when he said,” we are most grateful and appreciative of Bobbi’swork ethic and the impact she had made on all of Sun Valley Lodge. Quality Care and Positive Outcomes are herhallmark.”

Activity Professionals Week 2012

2012-01-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

We honor Tammy and Bernadette this week for all the wonderful things they do to keep the Lodge vibrant and our residents engaged and happy.

Leave a Legacy, Honor a Memory by Supporting our Memorial Garden

2012-01-09T09:35:00.001-08:00

This fall we began constructing a memorial garden designed to honor residents, families, and friends who have impacted life at the Lodge. Our goal is to create a space for reflection that adds to the overall beauty of the Lodge. Thus far we have erected the gazebo and laid the walkway thanks to gifts from former residents and their families. Now we need your help.

Thewalkway leading to the gazebo will be lined with bricks inscribed with the names of donors. This is a great way to memorialize a loved one or express your feelings for Sun Valley Lodge. We have also created an annual Garden Society whose donations will help maintain the Garden throughout the year. And, we are in need of benches and plants to complete the garden. Please help us complete our garden and continue to provide outstanding care to Seniors. All funds raised help us continue to fulfill our mission and provide the highest quality care for Seniors as we have for over 45 years.

We invite you to honor a loved one, leave your legacy, or simply help the Lodge by supporting our Memorial Garden. You can order an engraved brick and join our annual Garden Society through our website:www.sunvalleylodge.org. Or, contact our development office directly at (623)933-0137 extension 129. All donations to the Sun Valley Lodge Memorial Garden are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.

January 2012 HCC Activities

2012-01-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

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January 2012 Assisted Living Activity Calendar

2012-01-05T14:13:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

... from your friends at Sun Valley Lodge

Resident & Staff 2011 Christmas Party

2011-12-22T14:43:00.000-08:00

Every year our residents and staff gather together to celebrate Christmas and our community. Here are some photos from this year's event ...

HCC Christmas Party

2011-12-21T09:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Carols

2011-12-20T14:59:00.000-08:00

Our residents were treated to some great entertainment last week thanks to a local Girl Scout troop.

Leave a Legacy, Honor a Memory by Supporting our Memorial Garden

2011-12-12T10:30:00.000-08:00

This fall we beganconstructing a memorial garden designed to honor residents, families, andfriends who have impacted life at the Lodge. Our goal is to create a space forreflection that adds to the overall beauty of the Lodge. Thus far we haveerected the gazebo and laid the walkway thanks to gifts from former residentsand their families. Now we need your help.

Thewalkway leading to the gazebo will be lined withbricks inscribed with the names of donors. This is a great way to memorialize aloved one or express your feelings for Sun Valley Lodge. We have also createdan annual Garden Society whose donations will help maintain the Garden throughoutthe year. And, we are in need of benches and plants to complete the garden.Please help us complete our garden and continue to provide outstanding care toSeniors. All funds raised help us continue to fulfill our mission and providethe highest quality care for Seniors as we have for over 45 years.

We invite you to honor a lovedone, leave your legacy, or simply help the Lodge by supporting our MemorialGarden. You can order an engraved brick and join our annual Garden Societythrough our website:www.sunvalleylodge.org.Or, contact our development office directly at (623)933-0137 extension 129. Alldonations to the Sun Valley Lodge Memorial Garden are tax deductible to thefull extent allowed by law.

Long Term Care Benefits for Veterans

2011-12-12T10:23:00.000-08:00

The acquisition of long-term carebenefits for veterans has long been a subject of major concern for Seniors andtheir families at the Lodge. It is a topic we regularly addresswith our residents and prospective residents because of its potentially hugeimpact in their financial lives. In order to keep our residents wellinformed and make the process of applying for VA benefits as easy as possible,we have enlisted the help of trained and trusted volunteers to help them throughthe process. Before sitting down with avolunteer, though, it is important to be as well informed as possible.

TheVeterans Administration Non-Service Connected Disability Pension is designed toprovide qualified veterans and their surviving spouses with a tax-free pensionbenefit. This pension was formed in 1952under Title 38USC to provide a tax-free monthly pension to help defray thecosts of long-term care at home, in assisted living facilities, or in nursinghomes. The pension offers reimbursementfor medical expenses not covered by insurance and Medicare.

While it can be frustrating forseniors to file for their benefits, the financial gains for qualifiers can makea huge difference in their lives. Weencourage all veterans and their spouses to carefully review their situationsto see if they qualify and explore ways to maximize their benefits if they do.

In order to receive this aid theveteran must have served at least one day during wartime with 90 days of activeduty. Disability does not have to berelated to service, but an honorable or general discharge is necessary to haveyour application considered.

The next area of qualification ismedical. The veteran or surviving spousemust need the assistance of another person to perform daily tasks. And finally, assets and income are taken intoconsideration. The assistance that comeswith living at Sun Valley Lodge is a great way to demonstrate the fulfillmentof these two requirements and our volunteers can help make sure you areproperly positioned to take advantage of the benefits earned through service toour country.

December 2011 HCC Activities

2011-12-05T15:49:00.001-08:00

Click on the Calendar to Enlarge

December 2011 Inn Living Activites

2011-12-05T15:46:00.001-08:00

Click on the Calendar to Enlarge

Non-Service Connected Disability Pension for Veterans

2011-12-01T08:49:00.001-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATERELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
www.sunvalleylodge.org

Veterans Benefits Workshops

Sun City, Arizona – Thursday,December 01, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will host two workshopsdesigned to help veterans and their spouses understand the benefits they may beentitled to receive under the Veterans Administration Non-Service ConnectedDisability Pension program. Theworkshops will be held on Wednesday, December 14^th at 10:00 AM and2:00 PM.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanzsays the workshops are “very important to residents in our community. There seems to be a great deal of confusionregarding the qualifications needed to access these pensions and the stepsneeded to submit an application. We arevery excited to be able to help veterans and their spouses negotiate their waythrough the process.”

The Veterans Administration (VA)Non-Service Connected Disability Pension is designed to provide qualifiedveterans and their surviving spouses with a tax free pension benefit. Thispension benefit which was established in 1952 under Title 38USC, provides adirect tax-free monthly pension to help defray the cost of Long-term care inassisted living or home care.

The workshops are free and open to the public. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103^rdAvenue in Sun City. Seating islimited. Please call to reserve a seat. Formore information on assisted living services at Sun Valley Lodge please call(623) 933-0137.

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The Nurse's Clinic

2011-11-29T11:54:00.001-08:00

Onthe third Friday of every month our assisted living manager, Blanche Forrester,plays host to a program she calls the Nurse’s Clinic. The Nurse’s Clinic is a monthly informationaldiscussion formatted to introduce seniors to community resources and addresspertinent issues in their lives.

EdwardJones financial advisor Jonathan Miles was our most recent guest presenter. He discussed strategies for seniors to createsafe income streams.

“WhatI’m finding,” explained Jonathan, “is with money markets and CD rates so low,it is difficult for seniors to create income. I like to show how utilizing short duration bonds, investing in qualitycompanies, and taking advantage of some insurance products can stimulateincome.”

Pasttopics have included dentists, massage therapists, and companion care services. Keep an eye on our activity calendars for aprogram that interests you and feel free to stop by. Activity calendars can be picked up outsideour activity office or accessed through the “What’s New at Sun Valley Lodge”link on our website.

Memorial Garden

2011-11-22T08:46:00.001-08:00

SunValley Lodge has broken ground on a memorial garden designed to honorresidents, families, and friends who have impacted life at the Lodge. The garden is being constructed on thenorthwest side of the Lodge’s central courtyard. It features a walkway that will be lined withmemorial bricks and benches and culminates at a beautiful gazebo. The walkway and gazebo were constructed withfunds donated by friends and families of former residents. The gazebo is dedicated to Richard Birocciand the walkway to Merle Fachet.

Marketingand Development Director Mike Kloberdanz said the Garden “is intended both as a living memorial and as a place of solitude, comfort and reflection. It is a place where we can allremember some of the people who have made and continue to make Sun Valley Lodgesuch a special place.

“We are thrilled that somany people have already chosen to leave their legacy at Sun Valley Lodge. Fundsraised through donations to the Memorial Garden will help us continue tofulfill our mission of providing affordable, quality living choices to Seniorsin a trusting environment.”

The walkway leading to thegazebo will be lined with bricks inscribed with the names of donors. If you would like to order abrick or otherwise support our memorial garden you can contribute through ourwebsite: www.sunvalleylodge.org. Or, contact our development office directlyat (623)933-0137 extension 129.

Short Term Stays at the Lodge, Part III

2011-11-17T08:59:00.001-08:00

Most residents at the Lodge have settled in to their apartments forlong-term stays. They move in theirfurniture, bring in their belongings, and decorate their apartments as they seefit. Many people do not realize,however, that we also specialize in housing options for people with temporaryneeds.

Skilled Nursing in our Health Care Center

If more care is needed than our assisted living respite program canprovide, a short-term resident can stay in our Health Care Center. The HCC is a fully licensed nursing carefacility. We offer private andsemi-private rooms at extremely reasonable daily rates.

Financial Planning for Seniors

2011-11-15T08:40:00.001-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org

Financial Planning for Seniors

Sun City, Arizona – Tuesday, November 15, 2011 – EdwardJones financial advisor Jonathan Miles will be the special guest presenter at theSun Valley Lodge Nurse’s Clinic on Friday November 18^th at 3:00 PM.

Jonathan will bediscussing strategies for seniors to maximize their retirement assets. The Nurse’s Clinic is a monthly informationaldiscussion hosted by our assisted living manager, Blanche Forrester. The Clinic is formatted to introduce seniorsto community resources and address pertinent issues in their lives.

The Nurse Clinic isfree and open to the public. Sun Valley Lodge islocated at 12415 N. 103^rd Avenue in Sun City. For moreinformation please call (623) 933-0137.

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Short Term Stays at the Lodge, Part II

2011-11-14T10:50:00.001-08:00

Most residents at the Lodge have settled into their apartmentsfor long-term stays. They move in their furniture, bring in their belongings,and decorate their apartments as they see fit. Many people do not realize,however, that we also specialize in housing options for people with temporaryneeds.

AssistedLiving Respite Care

There are manytimes when short term assisted living care is required. Respite care is a great solution for seniorsneeding a little extra help after an illness or hospital stay. It is also usedto help out when family members are not able to care for a loved senior for afew days due to illness or a vacation. Sometimes people use our respiteapartment just to get a feel for Lodge living and to decide if we are the rightplace to make home.

For respite care weutilize fully furnished studio apartments and the package includes three mealsa day in the Lodge’s dining room, assisted living care from certifiedcaregivers, transportation to local medical appointments, and access to allcampus activities. It also includes anyassisted living services we offer including medication management, bathing,transporting, and dressing. There is atwo-week minimum stay in our respite apartments.

Medicare Changes Open Enrollment Period

2011-11-09T11:21:00.000-08:00

Every year there is an open enrollment period in whichMedicare beneficiaries can switch to an alternate plan. If you want to changeyour Medicare coverage for 2012, you need to be aware that the enrollmentperiod has changed. Instead of November 15 to December 31 as in previous years,this year the Medicare enrollment period begins October 15 and endsDecember 7.

MarvWorthen, Executive Director of the Community Assistance Network (formerly theSun City Taxpayers Association), describes this period as “the one time duringthe year people can change to a new plan that will better serve theirsituations.” Marv also stresses it isnot required that one take any action regarding Medicare benefits. If no changes are made during the openenrollment period, the previous year’s plan will remain in place.

Inorder to help people determine the best plan, the Community Assistance Networkprovides free access to a Benefits Assistance Counselor during the openenrollment period. CAN is located in thenortheast corner of the Sun Valley Lodge and appointments with a counselor canbe reserved by calling (623)933-7530.

Short Term Stays at the Lodge, Part I

2011-11-04T12:01:00.000-07:00

Most residents at the Lodge have settled into their apartments for long-term stays. They move in their furniture, bring in their belongings, and decorate their apartments as they see fit. Many people do not realize, however, that we also specialize in housing options for people with temporary needs.

Furnished Garden Apartments

We have fully furnished two-bedroom apartments available for daily, weekly, and monthly rentals. The 1,200 square foot units have 1 1/2 bathrooms, full kitchens, washers and dryers, and covered parking.

These apartments have been immensely popular with snowbirds and visiting families. They have also been used by people renovating their houses and folks who just want to see what the Lodge has to offer. And, the rates are hard to beat!

November Assisted Living/Indpependent Living Activities Calendar

2011-11-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

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November HCC Activities Calendar

2011-11-01T16:56:00.000-07:00

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Achtung!

2011-10-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

Octoberfest at Sun Valley Lodge.

October Inn Living Activities Calendar

2011-10-19T14:40:00.001-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Nutrition Seminar

2011-10-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

Our residents never stop learning. Jamie Avalla, our dietary director, recently held a nutritional seminar to help residents make good decisions about their eating choices.

October HCC Activities Calendar

2011-10-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Maintenance, Housekeeping, and Landscaping

2011-09-20T12:31:00.000-07:00

Our maintenance, housekeeping, andlandscaping departments gathered today for an employee recognition party. These are the folks who keep ourapartments clean, our gardens beautiful, and everything in working order.

Aloha!

2011-08-30T14:25:00.000-07:00

... from the Sun Valley Lodge Health Care Center!

Todays activities ...

2011-08-18T14:35:00.000-07:00

... included a morning trip to the spa and an afternoon ice cream social.

Congratulations to Chelsie and Josh ...

2011-08-11T13:25:00.000-07:00

... and welcome Addie!

From all your friends at the Lodge

Ollie Washington Celebrates 38 Years at SVL

2011-08-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Ollie Washington for 38 years of feeding Lodge residents and making them feel special!

Ollie (third from left) celebrates with our dining staff.

Thanks, Merle!

2011-08-01T16:33:00.000-07:00

One of our beloved residents passed away recently and her family donated funds for a staff party. What a nice way to remember our old friend.

August Assisted Living/Indpependent Living Activities Calendar

2011-07-29T17:05:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

July Assisted Living Activities

2011-07-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

SVL Healthcare Center Gets a Perfect Score

2011-06-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

We are again thrilled to announce that the Arizona Department of Health Services has given our community a stellar rating. A couple of months ago our Assisted Living Cen-ter was awarded a “deficiency-free” grade after its thorough inspection by the state agency. This time it was our skilled nursing center that garnered a perfect score.

After the state’s inspection this winter, our Health Care Center was given a 100% score on the Quality Rating. We also received the highest possible rating on the quality per-formance scale. SVL Director of Nursing Bobbi Jackson credits teamwork and dedi-cated employees for the stellar results.

“We have a very dedicated staff in all departments. Nursing, Dietary, Housekeeping, Maintenance and Human Resources all need to work together to make sure we are all in full compliance with the state. We also have a very good patient to staff ratio at the Lodge which helps make sure the care we provide is always good. And, many of our employees have worked here quite a while. They know our residents well and treat them like family.”

Sun Valley Lodge Employee Recognized by State Organization

2011-06-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Sun Valley Lodge Employee Recognized by State Organization

Sun City, Arizona – Wednesday, June 22, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge employee Al Pepe was honored at the 2011 Aging Services of Arizona convention held at the Fort McDowell Convention Center in early June. He received the “Excellence in Service” award from the state organization in recognition of his service to the Lodge’s Senior residents.

“Al has been a shining example of service for several years,” said Lodge Executive Director Michael Fahey. “He does everything within his power to make life better for our residents and Sun Valley Lodge is a better place because of his efforts.”

Al has served as Sun Valley Lodge’s Director of Plant Operations for nine years. In that capacity he manages the maintenance, housekeeping, landscaping, and transportation departments that provide many services for residents. He was nominated for the award by his co-workers.

Aging Services of Arizona is a trade association representing more than 50 not-for-profit facilities dedicated to providing quality health care, housing and services to over 12,000 elderly Arizona citizens and is affiliated with the LeadingAge a Washington D.C. based national membership organization of non-profit voluntary and governmental homes and service providers for the aging.

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Happy Fathers' Day!

2011-06-17T16:09:00.000-07:00

Our fathers gathered for a great lunch and a little entertainment today in Wriston Lounge.

Foot Care at the Lodge

2011-06-08T11:45:00.000-07:00

Foot care is a vital part of our wellness routine at the Lodge and we now have a visiting podiatrist available to our residents on a regular basis. We have recently enlisted Dr. Marie Paul, through a program called MD24, to begin making regular stops at the Lodge to care for our residents.

Dr. Paul is originally from Far Rockaway, New York and she completed her podiatry residency at St. John’s Episcopal hospital in Rockaway after graduating from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine in 1989. Dr. Paul is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and has been practicing podiatry for 22 years. Her practice includes comprehensive podiatric services to adults to diagnose and treats all foot and ankle problems such as simple tendonitis conditions, bunions, heel pain, and ankle sprains, corns, calluses, warts, ingrown toe nails, bunions, claw and hammer toes, heel pain and spurs, tendonitis, flat or arch feet pain and shin splints. Her main clinic has evolved around Diabetic Neuropathy’s and treatment for pain.

Foot Care Crucial for Seniors

2011-05-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

Even though seniors have years of wear and tear on their feet podiatry care is often a neglected aspect of their health and wellness. SVL Assisted Living Manager Blanche Forrester says, “Seniors are particularly susceptible to foot problems because of declining activity, changes in shoe size or foot structure, and medical conditions. The problem is compounded because many physicians do not focus on regular foot care.”

To help keep seniors healthy and active, we encourage them to pay special attention to their feet. It is crucial to find proper fitting shoes that do not add undo pressure to the feet. It is also important to keep blood circulating as much as possible. Seniors should put their feet up when they are sitting or lying down and stretch after sitting for a long while. Walking, gentle foot massages, and warm foot baths also help tremendously with circulation.

Other tips to keep your feet healthy include trying not to expose them to cold temperatures, avoid sitting for long periods of time (especially with your legs crossed), and avoid smoking.

Did you know?

2011-05-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

… that 36% of all our employees have been with us for at least 5 years!

At our recent Years of Service Celebration we honored:

1 employee who has been here 40 years
5 employees who have been here 15 years
9 employees who have been here 10 years
16 employees who have been here 5+ years.

Clarice Turns 103

2011-05-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday!!!

Volunteer Needed

2011-05-12T10:03:00.000-07:00

This is taken from an ad we are running on the Volunteer Match website. Drop us a line if you are interested.

Candy Cart Operator

Sun Valley Lodge has been serving Seniors in Sun City since 1965. We offer independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing housing options.

We are seeking a weekly candy cart operator for the summer. The operator will wheel the cart through our assisted living hallways and offer candy and other provisions to residents. This is a great opportunity for someone who likes to make friends and loves conversation.

We are seeking someone friendly, patient, and with the physical ability to do a bit of walking. Our candy cart is operated by a school group when school is in session, but we need someone for the summer.

We have been running the cart on Tuesday mornings at 10:00, but can work with a volunteers schedule.

May Assisted Living Activities

2011-05-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

May Skilled Nursing Activities

2011-05-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Sun Valley Lodge Thanks Norma Gray

2011-05-03T10:37:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Sun Valley Lodge Recognizes Top Volunteer

Sun City, Arizona – Tuesday, May 03, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge honored Surprise resident Norma Gray as its annual Volunteer Appreciation luncheon. Ms. Gray was given the Helene Pfeifer award in a ceremony honoring volunteers to the organization. The Pfeifer award is given annually to a volunteer who best exemplifies the spirit of the Lodge.

“Norma was an easy choice for the honor,” said Lodge marketing director Mike Kloberdanz. “She exemplifies everything good about our volunteer program. Norma gives selflessly, has fun, and improves the lives of our residents. We are really lucky to have her.”

Norma has lived in Surprise for 14 years and is originally from Boston.

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SVL Honors Years of Service

2011-04-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

SVL Honors Years of Service

Sun City, Arizona – Tuesday, April 26, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge celebrated its annual Employees Years of Service party and counted two key directors among the honorees: Director of Nursing, Bobbi Jackson, and Executive Director, Michael Fahey.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz said, “Much of the success the Lodge has enjoyed over the past decade can be attributed to Michael and Bobbi. In terms of quality and caring, they set the bar high. Their efforts are also responsible for employee satisfaction. Fully 36% of all our employees have been with us for at least five years. ”

Bobbi came to the Lodge in 2001 from Eastern Star Retirement Center in Phoenix where she held a similar position. An Ohio native, Bobbi has 25 years of geriatric nursing experience in Arizona. She started as an LPN and became a Registered Nurse in 1987. In 2003 Bobbi was instrumental in helping Sun Valley Lodge establish an assisted living program.

Now going into his 34th year of Senior Living Management, Michael holds a master’s degree in Long Term Care Administration and a bachelor’s degree in Health Care Administration from the University of Arizona. Much of his career has been spent working in the nonprofit service sector and caring for seniors. Over the course of his career, Michael has received three Governor Appointments to the State Board of Examiners for Nursing Care Institution Administrators and Assisted Living Managers, and has been both President and Vice President of the state agency.

Also honored at the event were one employee for 40 years of service, five employees for 15 years, nine for 10 years, and 16 employees for 5 years.

Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

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The Fight in the Salt River Canyon: Skull Cave, December 1872

2011-04-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

The Fight in the Salt River Canyon: Skull Cave, December 1872

Sun City, Arizona – Thursday, April 21, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will conclude its 2011 Discover Arizona series on Thursday, April 28th at 10:00 AM with a program entitled “The Fight in the Salt River Canyon: Skull Cave, December 1872.”

The Fight at Skull Cave in the Salt River Canyon took place during General George Crook's Tonto Basin campaign in December 1872. It proved to be an important engagement during General Crook's first campaign in the Arizona Territory; it was a testing ground for his method of using tribal scouts and mule pack trains along with small columns of soldiers for search-and-destroy missions against hostile Apaches and their Yavapai allies. This presentation looks at the battle from both sides, with a focus on what many believe to be the most important witness, Mike Burns, a Yavapai boy who was captured right before the cave stronghold was discovered.

The program is being presented by Dale Curtis Miles who was born on the San Carlos Apache Tribal Area and was their first tribal historian.

The Discover Arizona programs are free and open to the public. They are made possible by a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

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Walk & Roll!

2011-04-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

On Monday mornings in the spring, our staff gathers to take our HCC residents on walks through our beautiful rose garden.

Spelunking for the Corps: The Civilian Conservation Corps at Colossal Cave Mountain Park

2011-04-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org

http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Civilian Conservation Corps at Colossal Cave Mountain Park Program at Sun Valley Lodge

Sun City, Arizona – Friday, April 15, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will host the fourth installment of the Discover Arizona series on Thursday, April 21st at 10:00 AM with a program entitled “Spelunking for the Corps: The Civilian Conservation Corps at Colossal Cave Mountain Park.”
The presentation will be made by J.J. Lamb, Director of the Vail Preservation Society. Ms. Lamb has collected over 60 oral histories related to the New Deal and local history. In this fascinating presentation she will recount the story of the ‘boys’ of CCC Camp SP-10-A who worked underground surrounded by the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites to develop Colossal Cave as a tourism destination during the mid 1940’s.

The Discover Arizona programs are free and open to the public. They are made possible by a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.
# # #

Lodge Dietary Staff Lend a Hand

2011-04-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

Week in and week out our dietary department serves great meals and takes care of our residents’ nutritional needs. You would think the last thing they would want to do on a day off is feed a large group of people. But on a recent Saturday afternoon they generously gave their time and resources to feed some folks in need of a good hot meal.

Jamie Avalla, our Director of Dining Services, led six of her employees to the corner of 12th Avenue and Madison where they served macaroni and cheese with ham, sweet rolls, dinner rolls, cherry pie, chocolate cake, candy, potato chips, soda, coffee, and water to over 250 hungry people. “We sang, laughed, and had a great time,” reports Jamie. “The people we served were all grateful and blessed us at every item passed to them. “

Thirty-two members of Jamie’s staff were involved in raising the funds to purchase the food. They generated enough money to do it all over again and another feeding mission is being planned for the near future.

Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame

2011-04-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame

Sun City, Arizona – Friday, April 08, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will host the third installment of the Discover Arizona series on Thursday, April 14th at 10:00 AM with a discussion of the Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame.

Historian Reba Granrud will give a presentation on the Hall of Fame created in 1979 by the Arizona Women's Commission and the Office of the Governor. Seventy fascinating Arizona women have now been honored since the first induction ceremony in 1981 - homemakers, educators, entrepreneurs, ranch women, legislators, judges, authors, potters, transplants from other states, a mayor, an architect - each one, a woman whose story is worth telling and retelling.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz said, “This is another fascinating piece of Arizona history and culture that many people do not know about. We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Granrud to our campus.”

Reba Granrud is a consultant in historic preservation and oral history, and is an active board member for a wide range of nonprofits, including the Arizona History Convention, Arizona State Committee on Trails, Anza National Historic Trail Advisory Council, Old Spanish Trail Association, Sunnyslope Historical Society, and Pioneer Cemetery Association. She retired in 1998 from the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office, and in 2000 as Director of the Arizona Historical Society Museum in Papago Park

The Discover Arizona programs are free and open to the public. They are made possible by a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

# # #

April Skilled Nursing Activities

2011-04-01T10:17:00.000-07:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Arizona's War Town: Flagstaff, Navajo Ordnance Depot, and World War II

2011-03-31T15:00:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Arizona's War Town: Flagstaff, Navajo Ordnance Depot, and World War II

Sun City, Arizona – Thursday, March 31, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will host the second installment of their Discover Arizona series on Thursday, April 7th at 10:00 AM with a program entitled “Arizona's War Town: Flagstaff, Navajo Ordnance Depot, and World War II.”
The program will be hosted by Dr. John Westerlund of Flagstaff who will lead the audience through a fascinating – and somewhat forgotten -- period of Arizona history that began just weeks after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

After the attack, the War Department announced the construction of a massive ammunition depot ten miles west of Flagstaff at Bellemont on U.S. Highway 66 thus exploding Flagstaff’s population from five to twenty thousand. The Army rushed the $17 million project to completion and the Navy halted plummeting enrollment at the teachers college (today Northern Arizona University) by shipping in one thousand sailors and marines as part of its "V-12" program. Additionally, 1,000 Hopi and Navajo construction workers were employed on the project and 250 POW’s were transferred to Flagstaff.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz said, “This promises to be a fascinating program. We have a great many veterans living at the Lodge who well remember this time. We are looking forward to a lively discussion.”

The Discover Arizona programs are free and open to the public. They are made possible by a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

# # #

Lewis & Clark: The Arizona Connection

2011-03-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Lewis & Clark: The Arizona Connection at Sun Valley Lodge

Sun City, Arizona – Monday, March 21, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge will open their third annual Discover Arizona series on Thursday, March 31st at 10:00 AM with a program entitled “Lewis & Clark: The Arizona Connection.”

Historian Todd Weber will return to the Lodge in period attire, to recount the successes and perils of the Corps of Discovery as they journeyed to the Pacific in their epic 1804 expedition. Among the many historical items discussed, audiences will discover the little known history of Sacagawea's son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, who went on to become one of the most interesting and foremost figures in early Arizona history.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz said, “We are very excited to have Mr. Weber open our series. His passion for Arizona history is infectious and he puts on a great show.”

# # #

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

2011-03-17T16:42:00.000-07:00

Visit Our Improved Website

2011-03-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

Our website has undergone considerable changes over the past few months. We have streamlined the information on the site to include more photos, floor plans, and a link to current stories and news. Please visit us often at www.sunvalleylodge.org.

Sun Valley Lodge Announces Discover Arizona Lineup

2011-03-03T14:38:00.000-08:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Sun Valley Lodge Announces Discover Arizona Lineup

Sun City, Arizona – Thursday, March 03, 2011 – Sun Valley Lodge has again been awarded a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council to host our popular Discover Arizona series. For the third straight year, we will be presenting programs designed to explore life in Arizona. The public is invited to join us every Thursday at 10:00 AM from March 31st through April 28th to celebrate and explore our fascinating state.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz said, “We wish to express our gratitude to the Arizona Humanities Council for their support of this series and our community. We love being able to host this type of quality programming at the Lodge.”

All programs on the following schedule begin at 10:00 AM:

March 31st, “Lewis & Clark: The Arizona Connection”
April 7th, “Arizona's War Town: Flagstaff, Navajo Ordnance Depot, and World War II”
April 14th, “Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame”
April 21st, “Spelunking for the Corps:
The Civilian Conservation Corps at Colossal Cave Mountain Park”
April 28th, “The Fight in the Salt River Canyon: Skull Cave, December 1872”

The programs are free and open to the public. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. For more information please call (623) 933-0137.

# # #

A Perfect Score for Sun Valley Lodge Assisted Living

2011-03-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

We are pleased to announce that the Arizona Department of Health awarded our assisted living department a deficiency-free rating during our most recent inspection. The state generally inspects assisted living facilities on a yearly basis; reviewing care, food services, housekeeping, record keeping, and any incidents that may have arisen during the past year. We consider our survey results another indication of our prominence in the field and our strong commitment to fulfilling our mission.

March Skilled Nursing Activities

2011-03-01T11:17:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Discover Arizona Lineup Announced

2011-02-23T08:57:00.000-08:00

Sun Valley Lodge has again been awarded a grant from the Arizona Humanities Council to host our popular Discover Arizona series. For the third straight year, we will be presenting programs designed to explore life in Arizona. The public is invited to join us every Thursday at 10:00 AM from March 31st through April 28th to celebrate and explore our fascinating state.

Lewis & Clark: The Arizona Connection

March 31st

We will open the series with a presentation by historian Todd Weber who, in period attire, will recount the successes and perils of the Corps of Discovery as they journeyed to the Pacific in their epic 1804 expedition. Audiences will discover the little known history of Sacagawea's son, Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, who went on to become one of the most interesting and foremost figures in early Arizona history.

Arizona's War Town: Flagstaff, Navajo Ordnance Depot, and World War II

April 7th

Just weeks after Pearl Harbor, the War Department announced the construction of a massive ammunition depot ten miles west of Flagstaff at Bellemont on U.S. Highway 66. Flagstaff’s population exploded from five to twenty thousand.

Dr. John Westerlund will lead the audience through a fascinating period when the Army rushed the $17 million project to completion and the Navy halted plummeting enrollment at the teachers college (today Northern Arizona University) by shipping in one thousand sailors and marines as part of its "V-12" program. Additionally, 1,000 Hopi and Navajo construction workers were employed on the project and 250 POW’s were transferred to Flagstaff.

Arizona Women’s Hall of Fame

April 14th

Historian Reba Grandrud will discuss the Hall of Fame created in 1979 by the Arizona Women's Commission and the Office of the Governor. Seventy fascinating Arizona women have now been honored since the first induction ceremony in 1981 - homemakers, educators, entrepreneurs, ranch women, legislators, judges, authors, potters, transplants from other states, a mayor, an architect - each one, a woman whose story is worth telling, and retelling.

Spelunking for the Corps: The Civilian Conservation Corps at Colossal Cave Mountain Park

April 21st

J.J. Lamb, Director of the Vail Preservation Society, has collected over 60 oral histories related to the New Deal and local history. In this fascinating presentation she will recount the story of the ‘boys’ of CCC Camp SP-10-A who worked underground surrounded by the natural beauty of stalactites and stalagmites to develop Colossal Cave as a tourism destination during the mid 1940’s.

The Fight in the Salt River Canyon: Skull Cave, December 1872

April 28th

Discover Arizona concludes with a return appearance by Dale Curtis Miles who was born on the San Carlos Apache Tribal Area and was their first tribal historian. The Fight at Skull Cave in the Salt River Canyon took place during General George Crook's Tonto Basin campaign in December 1872. It proved to be an important engagement during General Crook's first campaign in the Arizona Territory; it was a testing ground for his method of using tribal scouts and mule pack trains along with small columns of soldiers for search-and-destroy missions against hostile Apaches and their Yavapai allies. This presentation looks at the battle from both sides, with a focus on what many believe to be the most important witness, Mike Burns, a Yavapai boy who was captured right before the cave stronghold was discovered.

Big Thanks to Girl Scout Troop 1912

2011-02-17T07:39:00.000-08:00

Daisy Scout Katie

February 4, 2011

Dear Girl Scout Troop 1912,

On behalf of the residents of Sun Valley Lodge I want to thank you for the beautiful Valentine cards you created for us. I am very impressed with your artistic abilities. I have never seen so many beautiful cards at once. We will deliver the cards on Valentine’s Day to all of our assisted living residents.

Your gift is especially important because many of the elderly people who live at the Lodge do not have much contact with the outside world. Receiving correspondence from young people in the community really makes them feel good; especially when it is clear that so much care was put into making the cards!

Thank you again for thinking of our residents. Your thoughtfulness and compassion are true signs of your commitment to Girl Scouts. I wish you all a Happy Valentine’s Day and good luck with your Scouting!

Sincerely,

Mike Kloberdanz

Director of Marketing & Resource Development

Sun Valley Lodge

Valentine's Day Party in the Health Care Center

2011-02-16T08:04:00.000-08:00

Valentine King & Queen

2011-02-11T15:13:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to John and Helen!

February Skilled Nursing Activities

2011-02-04T15:25:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

A Cold Day at the Lodge

2011-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:00

Brrr ...

Activity Professionals Week

2011-01-21T10:16:00.000-08:00

We honored our wonderful activity professionals this week with a staff party. Tammy Wilson and Bernadette Gromowski do a great job keeping our residents busy and happy. Their efforts are a huge part of the reason people love Sun Valley Lodge!

January Assisted Living Activity Calendar

2011-01-07T15:21:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

January Skilled Nursing Activities

2011-01-04T16:02:00.000-08:00

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Resident-Staff Christmas Party

2010-12-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

Residents and staff joined together to celebrate Christmas at our annual party. We mingled with friends, listened to music, sampled treats from the kitchen, and even had a visit from Santa Claus!

Christmas Thanks to Staff

2010-12-22T15:39:00.000-08:00

Click on picture to enlarge

Christmas Singing

2010-12-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

Staff and Residents joined together today to sing Christmas carols.

Goodbye Fifi

2010-12-14T15:03:00.000-08:00

Click to Enlarge

December Assisted Living Activities

2010-12-10T10:40:00.000-08:00

Assisted Living Activity Calendar

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

December Health Care Center Activities

2010-12-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

Skilled Nursing Activity Calendar
Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Time to Decorate for Christmas

2010-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Greetings From a Friend

2010-11-19T15:06:00.000-08:00

Grayce was a beloved volunteer at Sun Valley Lodge. We miss you Grayce!

November Skilled Nursing Activities

2010-11-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

HCC Activity Calendar

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

November Assisted Living Activities

2010-11-04T15:13:00.000-07:00

Independent and Assisted Living Activity Calendar

Click on Calendar to Enlarge

Sharing Holiday Time with Persons with Dementia

2010-11-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:
Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0133
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
www.sunvalleylodge.org

"Sharing Holiday Time with Persons with Dementia" Workshop

Sun City, Arizona – Monday, November 01, 2010 –Sun Valley Lodge and Hospice of the Valley are partnering to host a workshop for the friends and family members of persons with dementia on Thursday, November 11th at 3:00 PM.

The overall goal of this interactive presentation is to assist participants in understanding some of the common holiday-related issues that people with dementia may have. The unique considerations for holiday time with patients with dementia will be discussed including possible safety concerns and the importance of adjusting expectations related to celebrating the holidays.

Sun Valley Lodge Assisted Living Manager Blanche Forrester says that the holidays can be particularly difficult for those suffering with dementia. “We feel this program will help families and professionals construct plans to successfully manage the holiday season and improve the quality of life for both the patients and caregivers.”

Sun Valley Lodge welcomes the public and health professionals to attend this informative and free discussion. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. Seating is limited. Please call (623) 933-0137 to reserve a seat.
# # #

SVL Celebrates Oktoberfest

2010-10-28T14:57:00.000-07:00

Non-Service Connected Disability Pension Workshop

2010-10-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

Sun Valley Lodge invites you to attend a workshop on Wednesday, October 27^th at 3:30 PM to find out if you qualify for this crucial benefit and how much you can expect.

Call (623) 933-0137 to reserve a seat.

Lodge Welcomes New Chef

2010-10-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

We recently introduced a new chef to the Lodge kitchen. Daniel Kusik is a graduate of the Scottsdale Culinary Institute and hails from a restaurant family. Daniel has joined our staff as a sous chef where he will help continue our tradition of serving tasty and nutritious meals and offering a wide variety of choices.

Lodge Dietary Director Jamie Avalla explains Daniel’s role as highly interactive with residents and the meals themselves. “Daniel is not just planning menus. He will be very familiar with every meal served and will communicate with residents in order to ensure quality and consistency.” One of his first tasks will be to establish a monthly “Chef’s Table” where he will dine with a group of residents and critique the meal. The next time you join us for a meal, be sure to say hello to Daniel.

Non-Service Connected Disability Pension

2010-10-18T14:50:00.000-07:00

Did You Know?

• Access to your benefit through this system provides you with access to care. With a pension in hand, you are able to afford the care you need.

• You may choose the services and providers you need under this benefit.

• This pension is paid directly to you by the US Treasury Department.

2010 Maximum Benefit Amounts

Two Veterans/Spouses ... $2,440 per month ... $29,280 annually

Married Veteran ... $1,949 per month ... $23,388 annually

Single Veteran ... $1,644 per month ... $19,728 annually

Surviving Spouse ... $1,056 per month ... $12,672 annually

Veterans’ Benefits Workshop

2010-10-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:Michael Kloberdanz
Sun Valley Lodge
Phone (623) 933-0137
Fax (623) 933-5846
mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Veterans’ Benefits Workshop

Sun City, Arizona – Friday, October 15, 2010 – Sun Valley Lodge will host a workshop designed to help veterans and their spouses understand the benefits they may be entitled to receive under the Veterans Administration Non-Service Connected Disability Pension program. The workshops will be held on October 27th at 3:30 PM.

Marketing Director Mike Kloberdanz says the workshops are “very important to residents in our community. There seems to be a great deal of confusion regarding the qualifications needed to access these pensions and the steps needed to submit an application. We are very excited to be able to help veterans and their spouses negotiate their way through the process.”

The Veterans Administration (VA) Non-Service Connected Disability Pension is designed to provide qualified veterans and their surviving spouses with a tax free pension benefit. This pension benefit which was established in 1952 under Title 38USC, provides a direct tax-free monthly pension to help defray the cost of Long-term care in assisted living or home care.

The workshops are free and open to the public. Sun Valley Lodge is located at 12415 N. 103rd Avenue in Sun City. Seating is limited. Please call (623) 933-0137 to reserve a seat.

# # #

Sun Valley Lodge is a nonprofit organization and has been providing independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care in Sun City, Arizona for over 40 years.

The Benefits of Volunteering a Two Way Street

2010-10-14T16:03:00.000-07:00

Caring volunteers have been a Lodge strength for many years. They escort residents to medical appointments, play games and music, serve coffee at functions, deliver mail, and visit with those in need of companionship. While it is obvious that our volunteers bring cheer to the Lodge and help us fulfill our mission, they tell us that they too benefit immensely from lending a hand.

A perfect case in point is our recently formed relationship with the Austin Centers for Exceptional Students (ACES) in Peoria. The ACES is a state-certified, private, year round, special education school for kindergarten through twelfth grade special needs students. This year the school instituted a Career Express program for their seniors who will soon be entering the job market.

During the course of this program, students prepare resumes, write cover letters, and role play interviews. They also volunteer with local businesses in order to get work experience and improve their social skills.

Seven students from the ACES, along with a rotating group of teachers, have been operating the Lodge’s snack cart and helping with various activities since the beginning of the school year. Two months into their experience at the Lodge, ACES teacher Kim MacBoyle considers the partnership a huge success. “Our teachers are reporting that the kids volunteering at the Lodge are really responding well to their work. One of our quieter kids has really opened up in the classroom because she knows she is helping others. We are also hearing from parents that the kids in the program are showing great improvement in their behavior at home and really enjoy talking about their experiences.”

Of course, our residents love spending time with kids and the opportunity to visit with new friends is even more important than the help being provided by our volunteers. If you would like to brighten the lives of our residents and lend a hand, please give us a call ... (623) 933-0137.

Check out our new sign!

2010-09-24T11:20:00.000-07:00

SVL Celebrates Assisted Living Week

2010-09-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Sun Valley Lodge is extremely proud of our Certified Caregivers. They provide 24-hour a day service to our assisted living residents and are on call around the clock to help our independent residents, as well.

September Skilled Nursing Activities

2010-09-10T10:42:00.000-07:00

SVL Health Care Center Activity Calendar
Click on Calendar to Enlarge

September Assisted Living Activities

2010-09-08T15:25:00.000-07:00

Independent and Assisted Living Activity Calendar
Click on Calendar to Enlarge

A letter from our friends at the Sun City Foundation ...

2010-08-24T09:38:00.000-07:00

Fundraiser for Lodge Employee

2010-08-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact:

Michael Kloberdanz

Sun Valley Lodge

Phone (623) 933-0137

Fax (623) 933-5846

mike@sunvalleylodge.org
http://www.sunvalleylodge.org/

Car Wash Scheduled for Sun Valley Lodge Employee

Sun City, Arizona – August 19, 2010 – A car wash will be held on Saturday, August 28th at a Peoria Circle K to aid a Sun Valley employee who was recently injured in a traffic accident. The fundraising event will be held from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Circle K located at 7870 W Bell Road in Peoria. All of the money raised will go to help Christopher Snell of Peoria travel to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota to undergo an innovative procedure to restore the use of his left arm.

Chris, 18, was struck and seriously injured by a hit-and-run driver on May 26th at 67th and Greenway while he was riding his motorcycle to a class. Chris just graduated from Centennial High School in May and was taking classes to become a Certified Caregiver at Sun Valley Lodge in Sun City where he had been employed for two years in the food service department. He also intended to enroll in the Motorcycle Mechanics Institute in September to become a motorcycle mechanic.

The accident left Chris with numerous life-threatening injuries including a torn aorta. While his recovery has been remarkably swift, Chris still does not have the use of his left arm because of a brachial plexus injury. Doctors at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale feel Chris is an excellent candidate for an innovative surgical procedure to correct this problem.

The complex procedure is performed at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Chris has health insurance, but needs additional funds to help with travel and lodging expenses. He hopes to schedule the operation in October. For more details please call Chelsie Speedling at 623-330-8174.

# # #

Lodge Hosts Community Service Gathering

2010-08-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

On August 6th, Sun Valley Lodge served as hosts for the annual Sun City area Community Service Gathering organized by the Sun City Taxpayers Association. The meeting is designed to promote camaraderie and foster collaborations among nonprofit groups serving the West Valley.

August HCC Activities Calendar

2010-07-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

Click on the calendar to enlarge.

August Assisted Living/Indpependent Living Activities Calendar

2010-07-27T15:52:00.001-07:00

Click on the calendar to enlarge.