If you are envisioning a community full of helpless seniors sitting around knitting, keeping QVC in business with daily orders of useless items, joining Publisher’s Clearing House with high hopes of winning, you are mistaken. I was just like everyone else when I moved here, wondering if it was “Shuffleboard City” and would I just die of boredom? I visited 4 or 5 times, and was always impressed with who and what I saw. Attractive, active men and women, biking, swimming, golfing, exercising, doing Yoga and Pilates, dancing, power-walking, gardening, maintaining their property, acting in our theatre group, boaters, kayakers, fishermen, visiting the local beaches, and, in general, looking like they were having a wonderful time.
When I do an open house I am often asked “Will I be the youngest person here”? The age limit is one person must be 55, and the second person 50 or more. The majority of the residents are in the age range of 55 to 65, and there are some older folks, as well. My belief is that due to the incredible weather, temperate climate, lack of congestion, very little traffic, low low crime rate and an overall sense of safety and security, seniors live longer and stay healthier. Statistics show that seniors who live amongst their peers and participate in an active lifestyle are happier and healthier. Actually, Mr. John Funk, of the famous Funk and Wagnall Dictionary, just passed away after celebrating his 100th birthday here in the community. He was our “most senior” resident, having lived here for many many years.
Our residents come from all walks of life, and many of them still enjoy their careers, either working from home, or close by. We have teachers, nurses, physicians, attorneys, CPAs, Realtors, insurance sales, financial planners, investors, event-planners, professors from USC and Pepperdine, actors, retired policemen, military personnel, artists, store owners, wine distributors, chefs, etc. A cross section of folks who bring their skills to the community.
We have lots of parties in our beautiful clubhouse, most of them catered, and great bands from the area. Holiday season brings the lighting contest with prizes for the best and most creative use of lights on your home; The Spark of Love is held annually in connection with the Ventura Fire Dept–bring an unwrapped gift and enjoy a beautiful catered dinner, firefighters always in attendance! Then the New Years Eve party to follow! Clubhouse is decorated by residents who take pride in their creations, and they are most impressive. There is a large group of RV owners who have formed a caravan, plan trips throughout the year, and all take off together to enjoy a few days of camping. Throughout the year there are breakfasts sponsored by the HOA, and the men’s golf club, chili-cook-offs, ice cream socials, barbeques, Fourth of July carnival for the whole family, inter-active stage plays, musical events and so much more. So, no matter what your age, there is something for everyone! You can be as busy as you chose to be, or just sit on your deck, have a glass of wine and enjoy the spectacular sunsets. Isn’t it time to relax and enjoy your life, with no stress? How old do you feel?
See you soon . . .
Sally Fisher
818-268-2200
