55 Plus Palm Springs

Sun City Shadow Hills Pet Expo

2012-02-01T15:44:00.000-08:00

The 4th Sun City Shadow Hills Pet Expo will take place Sunday, February 12 from 9am to 1pm at the Monticito Clubhouse.

The event will feature vendors, a bake sale, a silent auction, contests and prizes, toe nail clipping, micro chipping, K-9 demonstrations and pet adoptions.

For more information, email SunCityPetExpo@gmail.com or call 760-342-5495.

Who's In Bed With The Butler?

2012-02-01T15:38:00.000-08:00

"Who's In Bed With The Butler?", an American farce, written by Michael Parker, will be performed by the Sun City Shadow Hills Performing Arts Club on March 22, 23 and 24 at 7pm and March 25 at 2pm.

Reserve your seat tickets after February 6 at 760-393-8352.

OPEN HOUSE Sunday 1-4 Sun City Shadow Hills

2012-01-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

You're invited to tour a very beautiful and affordably priced home at Sun City Shadow Hills Country Club this Sunday. Built in 2004, this active-adult home offers a 3-car garage, 2 bedrooms plus a den or additional bedroom, over 2,100 square feet, low HOAs of approximately $278 and is located on a cul-de-sac. Asking price is $349,900.

DATE: Sunday, January 29th
TIME: 1-4pm
ADDRESS: 40378 Corte San Carlos

Ask for directions as the gate.

55+ Communities With The Lowest HOAs In The Desert

2012-01-23T15:42:00.000-08:00

There are 12 fifty-five plus communities in the desert offering single family homes.

The lowest homeowner association fee can be found at Las Brisas II in Indio. The luxury 55+ community of Villa Portofino has the highest HOA fee at $758 a month. Compare all HOAs below.

Desert Willows in Desert Hot Springs - $153 HOA

Four Seasons in Palm Springs - $267 HOA

Heritage Palms Country Club in Indio - $279 HOA

Las Brisas II in Indio - $89 HOA

Mountain View in Desert Hot Springs - $98 HOA

Paradise Springs in Desert Hot Springs - $153 HOA

Sun City Palm Desert Country Club - $372 HOA

Sun City Shadow Hills Country Club in Indio - $247 HOA

Trilogy Country Club in La Quinta - $288 HOA

Villa Portofino in Palm Desert- $758 HOA
Villas At The Vinyards in Coachella - $238 HOA

Watercolors in La Quinta - $124 HOA

TO VIEW ALL HOMES FOR SALE IN THESE COMMUNITIES VISIT www.55PlusDesertHomes.com

Free Rock Tunes of the Sixties Concert on Sunday, December 4th

2011-12-03T05:44:00.000-08:00

Did you know there is going to be a Free Concert on Sunday, December 4th at 2 PM.
Bob Allen is performing his favorite Rock Tunes of the Sixties at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park Amphitheater (on San Pablo Ave between Fred Waring & Magnesia Falls)

Word has it there will also be a Classic Car Cruise-in with great cars from the ‘50s & ‘60s to enjoy looking at. There are lots of great songs and great memories from the Sixties so it’ll be lots of fun.

Bring your friends, your lawn chair and your own refreshments.

OPEN HOUSE Today - $169,900 Home In La Quinta

2011-11-27T06:24:00.000-08:00

Stop by my Open House today, Sunday, November 27th, from 11am to 2pm.
My almost new, 2 bedrrom, 2 bathroom home is located in the gated, 55+ community of Watercolors, on 48th near Adams, in La Quinta.

Watercolors is a moderate income, senior community in one of the nicest and most convenient locations in the desert.
CLICK HERE for photos, open house directions and information.

Brand New 55+ Desert Homes Starting at $140,000!

2011-11-09T12:08:00.000-08:00

If you're searcing for a new home, but you prefer an intimate, 55+ community over one of the desert's many mega super-sized active-adult communities, then you'll want to tour this beautiful new community.

Located in the Indio/Coachella area, not far from Heritage Palms and Sun City Shadow Hills, is a brand new, gated community of 35 homes ready for move in. They each include granite counter tops, two tone paint, casitas, common area pool, club house, Golf Course views, mountain views, and much more! Prices start in the $140,000's.

Please contact me today and I will be happy to give you a personal tour of the homes and the grounds.

Call Steve Stewart at 760-600-6152 or email stevestewart@kw.com

The Lowest Priced 55+ Home In The Desert Is Under $10K!

2011-11-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

The lowest priced 55+ home in the desert is just under $8,000. For all of you buyers worried that prices will continue to go down, this one should ease your mind. There's no where for this home to go but up!

Located in a very clean and newer senior community in Desert Hot Springs, this single wide, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom Desert View Mobile Club home is half the price of a new car!

To search all other mobile homes currently priced at under $10,000 in the desert area. To view them visit www.PalmSpringsMobileHomes.com.

The Snowbirds Are Returning And Rentals Are Booking Up Fast

2011-10-21T15:04:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. As Thanksgiving turkeys start heading for the ovens, the snowbirds start heading back to Palm Springs for the high winter season. And, as sure as Highway 111 will become more of a parking lot than a four-lane street, vacation rentals will become scarce and double their annual lease rates.

If you haven't already booked your active-adult, 55+ desert area rental, contact me today and I will be happy to assist you.

Or, visit my website and search for all currently available rentals in each 55+ desert community: http://www.55pluspalmspringsrentals.com/

Pictured above is the beautiful 55+ community of Heritage Palm Country Club in Indio. This is one of the more than 40 fifty-five plus desert communities offering vacation and annual rentals.

Yard Sale At The Oldest Home In Palm Springs

2011-10-09T11:46:00.000-07:00

The historic McCallum Adobe home, located at 221 S. Palm Canyon Drive in the Village Green downtwown, is the oldest home in the city of Palm Springs.

On December 10th and 11th, from 8am to 5pm, the Palm Springs Historical Society will be holding its first Yard Sale fundraiser and all are welcome. Items on sale will include historic collectibles and artifacts from days gone by.

Are You In The Market For A NEW 55+ Desert Home?

2011-09-19T13:24:00.000-07:00

With so many 55+ desert communities to chose from -- there are over 40 -- the choice can be overwhelming.

But, if you're looking for a new 55+ desert home, the choice is simple - Sun City Shadow Hills, in Indio. Del Webb is currently the only developer still building new, active-adult homes, here in the desert.

I was informed last week that their new model homes, which are being built in the new North Course development, will open in January. The models are completely different than previous models and prices will start in the low $190,000s.

Remember, when you purchase a new home you can have a Realtor, like me, represent you and there is no charge to you. There is no downside to having a real estate agent represent you and negotiate the best deal possible deal for you when you purchase a new home.

Please contact me if I can assist you. I would love to show you around the beautiful country club community of Sun City Shadow Hills - 760-600-6152 or stevestewart@kw.com.

LABOR DAY OPEN HOUSE WEEKEND At Watercolors La Quinta

2011-08-31T12:24:00.000-07:00

If you haven't yet visited the beautiful 55+ community of Watercolors in La Quinta, now is your chance.

I'll be holding an open house this Labor Day Weekend, Saturday, September 3rd, and Sunday the 4th, from 11am to 2pm.

Stop by and say hello and get to know one of the most unique and affordable, senior communities in the desert.

CLICK HERE for photos, open house directions and information.

Desert Braemar Offers Midcentury Modern Living To 55+ Boomers And Seniors

2011-08-21T00:35:00.000-07:00

Built in the 1950s, Desert Braemar, located in Rancho Mirage, California, is a Midcentury Modern, 55+, stock co-op.

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH ALL DESERT BRAEMAR CO-OPS FOR SALE

View The Only Affordable 55+ Condos In The Desert

2011-08-16T12:09:00.000-07:00

Jardin De Leones is a 55+ community in Cathedral City. It's also only one of two senior condo complexes in the desert, and the only "affordable" condo development.

The other 55+ condo community is Villa Portofino in Palm Desert. Villa Portofino promotes itself as luxury condos.

CLICK HERE TO SEARCH ALL CURRENT JARDIN DE LEONES CONDOS FOR SALE

Retirees Make Up The Largest Group Of Homeowners In The U.S.

2011-08-15T13:01:00.000-07:00

According to the New York Times, "households headed by people 65 and older make up the largest segment of the population of homeowners in this country, and many of them will continue to make home purchases in or near retirement — in many cases, trading in a larger suburban house for a smaller apartment or town house in a more urban area.
While the majority of older homeowners will pay with cash and therefore will not need a mortgage, some may require financing — perhaps because their previous home declined in value, or because they wanted to keep a portion of the money from the sale in income-generating investments.

About a third of the 65-and-older households that owned a home in 2009 had a mortgage, according to the Census Bureau’s American Housing Survey, which also put homeownership in this age group close to 81 percent during the second quarter of this year. By contrast, around 64 percent of people 35 to 44 were homeowners, and only 38 percent of those younger than 35 owned homes, the latest census data found."

CLICK HERE to read the rest of the article

The LOWEST PRICED 55+ Country Club Homes For Sale - AUGUST 2011

2011-08-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly, some of the lowest priced homes in the Palm Springs desert resort area are located in our four, high-end active-adult country club communities. Here are the lowest current prices, for August 2011. Click on the links below to view additional information and photos:

SUN CITY SHADOW HILLS COUNTRY CLUB - $173,252, 2BD/2BA, approx. 1,571 SF

HERITAGE PALMS COUNTRY CLUB - $175,000, 2BD/2BA, approx. 1,382 SF

SUN CITY PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB - $189,950, 2BD/2BA, approx. 1,157 SF

TRILOGY LA QUINTA COUNTRY CLUB - $219,499, 2BD/2BA, approx. 1,386 SF

How To Find Out If You Qualify For A Reverse Mortgage

2011-08-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

The August, 2011 issue of California Real Estate magazine reports that "Seniors considering applying for a reverse mortgage to tap into their home's equity to fund their retirement may fit it harder today to get approved for a reverse mortgage loan.

The reverse mortgage market's two biggest players, Bank of America and Wells Fargo, which recently accounted for 43 percent of the business, according to Reverse Market Insight, have both stepped out of the market.

With declining home values today, fewer seniors qualify for reverse mortgages. And, because banks are not allowed to assess borrowers' financial health, reverse mortgages have become a riskier proposition."

I've been told by my reverse mortgage contact at Metlife that they are still offering Metlife HECM reverse mortgages to qualifying seniors. If you are interested in knowing if you qualify, please contact me at stevestewart@kw.com and I will put you in touch with a desert area Metlife representative.

Save Big On 55+ Community HUD Homes

2011-08-11T12:37:00.000-07:00

If you're ready to act fast, you can occassionally take advantage of HUD home deals. There are currently 2 very nice mobile homes for sale in our 55+ desert communities.

If you would like to be notified when HUD homes hit the market, before other buyers have a chance to snap them up, please email me and I will contact you with the latest listings. stevestewart@kw.com

A Midcentury Modern Condo Development For Those Over 55?

2011-08-09T09:16:00.000-07:00

The majority of 55+ homes, here in the desert, are newer and predominantly designed in the California Mediterranean style.

So, what's a 55+ boomer or senior to do, if your architectural style runs more toward contemporary, modern or midcentury modern but you still prefer to be in a senior community? Glad you asked.

One option is Desert Lanai. Located at the corner of Sunrise Way and Tachevah, in central Palm Springs, this very popular, and architecturally significant, 50+ condo community is affordable and full of midcentury modern style.

Another option, is Desert Braemar, in Rancho Mirage. A gated, 55+ stock co-op community, the development is located on Highway 111, near Frank Sinatra Drive.

To view current homes for sale in each community, click the links below.

Desert Lanai Condos For Sale

Desert Braemar Stock Co-Ops For Sale

One Home Sells Every Day In Sun City - Even In This Market!

2011-08-08T01:24:00.000-07:00

It will probably come as a surprise, to most 55+ desert home buyers, to learn than in the past 12 months, more than one home sold every single day, between the two Sun City desert neighborhoods.

That's saying a lot, in one of the worst economic downturns in history, for homes in this community to be selling so briskly. Here are the actual figures for the past 12 months:

SUN CITY PALM DESERT had 242 home sales
Lowest priced sale $126,000
Highest priced sale $725,000 (no, that's not a typo)

SUN CITY PALM SHADOW HILLS had 179 home sales
Lowest priced sale $157,500
Highest priced sale $650,000 (again, no, that's not a typo)

According to the Desert Area MLS, a total of 420 homes sold in the Sun City communities in the past 12 months and this figure doesn't count homes for sale by owner. There are over 7,500 homes between these two communities. Click the links below to view all current homes for sale in each neighborhood, and find out why boomers and seniors have made Sun City one of the most popular communities in the Palm Springs desert area.

SUN CITY PALM DESERT HOMES FOR SALE

SUN CITY SHADOW HILLS HOMES FOR SALE

RV Enthusiasts And Snowbirds Flock To These Desert RV Parks

2011-08-04T11:13:00.000-07:00

If you're a 55+ RV lover and desert homeowner, then it's very likely that you call Desert Shadows RV Resort in Catheral City, Desert Aire RV Resort in Indio, Rancho Casa Blanca RV Resort and Country Club in Indio, or Las Brisas II in Indio, home sweet home.

These four gated, senior communities were designed with RV owners in mind. Click the links below to view all current homes for sale in each community.

DESERT AIRE RV RESORT MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE

RANCHO CASA BLANCA RV RESORT AND CC MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE

DESERT SHADOWS RV RESORT MOBILE HOMES FOR SALE

LAS BRISAS II HOMES FOR SALE

Are You Still A Hippy At Heart?

2011-08-02T11:54:00.000-07:00

About this time each year, when desert temps hit the triple digits for weeks on end, former hippies, 55+ boomers and seniors head for the hills.

If you're in need of a daytrip, the mountain village of Idyllwild is less than an hours drive from the desert, and typically 20-30 degrees cooler.

And speaking of cool - all of you former hippies and hippy wannabes will feel right at home at the top of the mountain. I snapped this pic in front of one of the many gift shops in this Alpine village. Tie Dyed Tees were being sold across the street and incense wafted out of another shop. The whole town seemed to be trapped in a bit of a time warp.

I thought I was just getting away for the day with a friend for breakfast and a hike, but it was more like taking a short, fun trip to a few decades gone by, making the trip a real Trip and even cooler than the temps.

To get to this groovy getaway, take Highway 74 from Palm Desert, or Highway 243 from Palm Springs.

Country Club Living Without The Price Tag

2011-08-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

Mission Lakes Country Club is located just 10 miles north of Downtown Palm Springs, off of Indian Canyon Drive, in west Desert Hot Springs.

Next door to Mission Lakes are the 55+ communities of Paradise Springs, to the east, and Mountain View Country Estates, to the west. (Mountain View is only partially a senior community.)

Homes in these two developments start at under $100,000s, have low HOA fees, are gated and just across the street from one of the most affordable golf courses in the Palm Springs desert area.

You don't have to live in a country club to live the country club lifestyle. You just need to live across the street!

CLICK HERE to view all current homes for sale in Paradise Springs

CLICK HERE to view all current homes for sale in Mountain View

How Many Shoes Does It Take To Fill A 1,700 Square Foot Closet?

2011-07-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

The other night, I watched the new HGTV series Selling LA. The homes, of course, were all off the chart stunning, but the WOW moment of the show was when one of the Realtors toured a 1,700 square foot walk-in closet.
This closet came with its own fireplace, kitchen and well, a few shoes.

If you're currently looking for a 55+ Palm Springs area luxury pad with a WOW closet, please call. I'm sure I can make it happen, on a bit smaller scale, that is.

Villa Portofino Are The Only 55+ LUXURY Condos In The Desert

2011-07-26T04:15:00.000-07:00

The phrases Fifty Five Plus and Luxury Condo aren't typically used together. But the Villa Portofino 55+ luxury condos are anything but typical.

Located in Palm Desert, on Country Club Drive, Villa Portofino is the ONLY luxury condo development in the desert. If you prefer a simple, carefree, low maintenance, but upscale resort lifestyle, you'll want to visit Villa Portofino.

SEARCH ALL CURRENT VILLA PORTOFINO CONDOS FOR SALE

Please contact me directly with any questions, or for a private showing stevestewart@kw.com.

55+ Homes With Private Pools Start In The $100Ks!

2011-07-25T07:42:00.000-07:00

Are looking for a home in an active-adult, 55+ community with a PRIVATE POOL?

There are currently close to 50 homes for sale in 55+ communities that offer private pools. Most of the homes are in country club communities such as Trilogy, Sun City, Heritage Palms and others. Prices start in the $100Ks and go up to the $800Ks.

Call me or email stevestewart@kw.com and I will email you my list of 55+ homes with private pools. The list is UPDATED and emailed to you whenever a new 55+ home comes on the market with a private pool.

Talk About A Senior Discount - Many 55+ Desert Homes Are Half Off!

2011-07-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

It's true that, in this current real estate market, many great homes are half off, but with an asking price under $175,000, this bank-owned foreclosure really caught my eye today.

It's in the terrific, gated 55+ community of Paradise Springs, in Desert Hot Springs, it has a beautiful private pool, is huge, is almost new, has tons of expensive upgrades in every room, and well, if you want to know more, click the link below to see photos and details about this home and the other great homes for sale in this community.

CLICK HERE to search all current homes FOR SALE in Paradise Springs.

You're Invited To Next Desert SHORT SALE SEMINAR

2011-07-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

Thousands of responsible 55+ home owners will SHORT SALE their home, this year.

You're invited to join me for the next SHORT SALE presentation and Q&A.

There is no fee, no obligation and no sales pitch. Just education. Get the answers to questions such as: What is a short sale? When is it the best option? What type of hardships qualify? And, learn about new laws that dismiss money owed to the lender and tax obligations.

To sign up for the next short sale seminar, please email me at stevestewart@kw.com and I will send you the date. Or, call me if you would like a private phone consultation.

What's At The Top Of Your 55+ Dream Home Wish List?

2011-07-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

The other day, I met a potential home buyer in my office, who wanted to purchase in a 55-plus, Palm Springs community. In an effort to assess his needs, I asked him to list his Top-5 must-haves. The deal breakers. The items he had to have before he would be ready to make an offer on a home. Without hesitating, he said, "it needs to be within walking distance to the Golden Rainbow Gay and Lesbian Senior Center."

Only a month earlier, another buyer told me she wanted to be within walking distance of the Mizell Senior Center, in Palm Springs. While this would have been a plus for her, it wasn't on her Top-5 list. So, it wasn't a deal breaker for her.

Needing to be near the Senior Center in South Palm Springs, and wanting to buy in a 55+ community, narrowed down our selection to one very nice development, known as ParkView Estates, a 55+ mobile home community. It has some of the best mountain views in the desert, is near downtown and has a monthly lease of approximately $500-$600. One of the other items on his Top-5 list was LOW HOAs or monthly lease.

In the end, he decided that lower HOAs were more important than being able to walk to the Senior Center, so he's still looking. What's on your Top-5 list? If you would also like to be able to walk to the LGBT Senior Center, CLICK on this link to view the mobile homes currently for sale at ParkView Estates.

55+ Desert Home Of The Month - July 2011

2011-07-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

This nearly new, Palm Springs desert area home of the month is located in the beautiful, gated, 55+ development of Paradise Springs, in Desert Hot Springs.

Located across the street from the Mission Lakes Country Club, this short sale, with an asking price of only $159,000, is a desert dream home at a dream price. Golf lovers will find the adjacent golf course especially convenient. Why pay high HOAs to live on a golf course when you can live across the street and pay some of the lowest HOAs in the desert?

CLICK HERE for photos and more information about this home and all current homes FOR SALE in Paradise Springs.

55+ Luxury Desert Homes For Sale

2011-06-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

Of the thirty six, 55-plus communities located here in the Palm Springs desert area, four are country clubs that offer traditional, single family attached and detached golf homes. Homes currently range in price from the high $100s to nearly $1 million. Many also have private pools and golf course views.

Click the links below to view current homes for sale in these four communities.

Heritage Palms Country Club - Indio
Sun City Palm Desert Country Club - Palm Desert
Sun City Shadow Hills Country Club - Indio
Trilogy Country Club - La Quinta

If I can be of assistance in your search, please feel free to contact me at stevestewart@kw.com.

Put A Face To KWXY On Their New Facebook Page

2011-06-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Still haven't joined Facebook? Still waiting for a good reason to?

Well, now you have one. If you're a fan of the classic oldies Palm Springs area radio station KWXY, like me, you'll want to following and friend them on their new Facebook page.

You don't have to be a local to listen, either. KWXY is now online and you can listen 24/7 from almost anywhere in the world from your computer.

This is one of the few remaining radio stations that still plays the classic standards. Show your support by becoming a fan of their Facebook page.

Politic Statement Or Work Of Art

2011-05-15T13:08:00.000-07:00

I'm about as apolitical as you can get, but I am an art lover, so when I saw this "political statement" and hand made work of art in someone's front yard, I had to share it. Of course, this photo was taken in a primarily senior community - where everyone speaks their mind.

Who Says There's No Such Thing As A Free Brunch?

2011-05-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

I had Sunday brunch yesterday with my friend and associate, Twyla, at the 55-plus community of Heritage Palms Country Club, in Indio. The country club on-site restaurant serves a wonderful buffet on Sundays for only $10 per person, and it was one of the nicest brunch buffets I've ever been to. I've paid three or four times as much for buffets not half as good. We ate on the patio, overlooking the golf course, and the weather was a perfect 80 degrees and beautiful.

Okay, the meal wasn't free, but yours can be. Here's how.

If you're considering a move to Heritage Palms Country Club, allow me and my associate, Tyla, who lives in Heritage Palms Country Club (that's her pool overlooking the greenbelt), to help you with your house hunt and we will treat you to brunch. Call or email me for details today, while prices and interest rates are still historically low.

CLICK HERE to view all current homes for sale in Heritage Palms Country Club.

From Here to Eternity - How To Realize Your Bucket List

2011-04-23T10:22:00.000-07:00

500 Things to Do Before You Kick the Bucket
"From Here to Eternity: Realizing Your Bucket List" is an upcoming class in Creative Visualization being offered by The Golden Rainbow Center, in Palm Springs, on Tuesday, May 3rd from 9 am to Noon.

The instructors describe the class as "What you see is what you get! By creating a visual map to match your goals, you can achieve your deepest desires, in this three-hour hands-on workshop, By cutting out pictures and words and arranging them on to a poster you will set the scene for accomplishing your dreams and goals. This visual "bucket", filled with clear, vivid colorful pictures and words will help focus your attention, both consciously and subconsciously. This bucket's contents will be a constant reminder of what you are expecting to happen in your life and, believe it or not, it will happen! Darlene Atteberry darleneka@yahoo.com and Anne Winchester anne.winchester@yahoo.com have previously taught this class to many individuals, but more importantly, they have seen it work during their lives, both for business and personal goals. $15 for members, $45 for non-members, please call the Center at 1-760-416-7790 to register.
The Golden Rainbow Center - SAGE is located at 611 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 201, Palm Springs, CA 92264 in the Sun Center with ample parking.
Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday, plus evening and weekend programs, as announced.
Call 1-760-416-7790 or email info@grcps.org with questions.

55-Plus Desert Area Home Foreclosures Updated Daily

2011-04-16T11:30:00.000-07:00

If a bargain price is at the top of your 55+ desert dream home wish list, then you'll want to visit this website before you start your house hunt http://www.55plusDesertHomes.com/foreclosures.html.

Unlike housing communities in the rest of the desert, there are very few 55-plus home foreclosures or bank-owned homes in the desert area. One reason is that not as many speculators and investors purchased in these communities before the economic bubble burst. The other reason is that many older buyers pay cash for their homes.
So, if you're considering a move, remember that timing is everything and retirement living has rarely been as affordable as it is today, and may never be again.

What Would You Give For Just One More Day? Everything?

2011-04-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

"In all of time and space, can you think of anything more valuable than just another day?"
-- A Note From The Universe http://www.tut.com/

In the end, time is our most valuable possession and the thing we often waste without a second thought.

Free Screening of "Secrets In America: The Crisis of Elder Abuse" On April 16th

2011-03-18T08:49:00.000-07:00

The Palm Springs Human Rights Commission is hosting a free screening of “Secrets in America, The Crisis of Elder Abuse,” plus a panel discussion with leading experts on the subject. This event will be from 4 to 6 p.m., Saturday, April 16 at the Mizell Senior Center. Share this information with your friends, family and neighbors so they can learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones from becoming a victim of elder abuse.

The Only Country Club With A 24/7 Guarded Gate In Palm Springs - On Fee Simple Land

2011-02-02T17:19:00.000-08:00

It's not a 55-plus community, but many Palm Springs active-adults call it home.

If you want to live in a Country Club, with a guard at the gate 24/7, and you want to live in the city of Palm Springs, and you want to own the land - there's only one community to consider. That community is Seven Lakes Country Club in South Palm Springs. There are currently 43 condos for sale, including my listing at http://www.7lakesdreamhome.com/.

For a private showing, email me at stevestewart@kw.com.

WARNING: Reverse Mortgages And Leased Land Don't Mix!

2011-01-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

For the last few months, I've been working with a couple who have decided to buy a retirement condo in Palm Springs. Last week, they fell in love with a new townhome, within walking distance to the downtown village, and decided to make an all cash offer. That made my day, and theirs.

After they signed the Purchase Agreement they said, "Oh, by the way, we plan to obtain a reverse mortgage in a few years, on this home." If they had mentioned this before we wrote the contract, we could have saved a tree and a lot of disappointment.

Unfortunately, according to my mortgage broker, lenders will not make reverse mortgage loans on Leased Land. So, our search continues, and has narrowed to condos on Fee Simple land (you own the land) only.

For a list of home and condo communities, in the city of Palm Springs, on Fee Simple land, please email me at stevestewart@kw.com.

Tips On Decorating Your Golf Cart For The Holidays

2010-12-11T08:20:00.000-08:00

If you're over 55 and live here in the desert, it's very likely that you own a golf cart. If you've decorated yours for the holidays, email me a photo and I'll post it here for all to enjoy. 55plus@dc.rr.com

Here'a little inspiration, taken at last weekend's Palm Springs Festival of Lights Parade, for those of you who haven't yet started decorating.

Stroke Recovery Center Lights Up The Holidays

2010-12-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

I was happy to see that the Stroke Recovery Center was part of this year's Palm Springs Festival of Light Parade. Watch my video above. I only hope that they add a little music or a bit more fun to their display next year. Okay, so maybe it's difficult to compete with dancing penquins and hot air balloons in the shape of candy canes and gift stockings, but I wouldn't mind seeing them all dressed up as candy canes next year. Just a thought. For more information about the center, visit http://www.strokerecoverycenter.org/.

Mizell Senior Center Holiday Food Program Saved!

2010-11-26T06:22:00.000-08:00

Thanks to generous donations by the community, the Mizell Senior Center Holiday food program was saved this year.

What Are You Most Thankful For Today?

2010-11-25T16:16:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all the readers of this online newsletter.

I spent this Thanksgiving at the top of the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Today, I'm most thankful that I've been able to spend nearly every Thanksgiving, of my 57 years, in Palm Springs. What are you thankful for today? What's your Thanksgiving tradition?

Thanks for reading and thanks for sharing.

Donations Needed This Holiday Season

2010-11-20T06:16:00.000-08:00

Don't Forget To Take Part In National Memory Screening Day

2010-11-15T13:50:00.000-08:00

This year's National Memory Screening Day will take place Tuesday, November 16th at the Palm Springs Police Department, from 7am to 1pm.

Location: Palm Springs Police Department, 200 S Civic Drive, Palm Springs, CA 92262

Caring For A Person With Alzheimers In The Desert Area

2010-11-15T06:26:00.000-08:00

Are Baby Boomers Moving Into 55-Plus Communities In The Same Numbers That Their Parent's Did?

2010-11-13T14:53:00.000-08:00

Are baby boomers moving into 55-plus communities in the same numbers that their parent's did or is there a stigma to these communities among boomers? This is another question that I often get, usually from home buyers who aren't yet 55.

I don't know about other areas of the country, but 55-plus communities here in the desert are very popular. In fact, when the economy hit the skids a couple of years ago, all of the new home builders here in the Coachella Valley abruptly stopped building, leaving many communites looking ghost towns. The only new builders who never stopped were the 55-plus builders like Sun City Shadow Hills in Indio, Shea Home's Trilogy in La Quinta and K.Hovnanian's Four Seasons in Palm Springs. Why? Because the demand never stopped in these communities.

If you're thinking about buying a new home in one of these communities make sure you bring a buyers agent with you. If you buy directly from the builder you are using their agent, who is required to put the seller's best interest first. A buyer's agent is required to put your best interest first and negotiate to get you the best deal. Plus, it doesn't cost you a penny to use a buyers agent when you buy a home. That's something many home buyers don't realize. And, unfortunately, they end up paying more their home than they might have, if they had used their own agent.

Call me before you visit a new 55-plus builder, here in the desert, and I will be happy to represent you and negotiate the best deal possible for you.

For more information, visit http://www.55plusdeserthomes.com/

How Many 55-plus Communities Are There In The Coachella Valley?

2010-11-07T14:34:00.000-08:00

One of the questions I get the most is "How many 55-plus communities are there in the Coachella Valley?"
When I say that there are nearly 50 communities and approximately 10,000 homes in all, my answer is always met with surprise. We're known for having more golf courses per capita than anywhere else in the world and I wouldn't be surprised if we had more 55-plus communities per capita than anywhere else in the world, as well.

55+ Single family home communities include Four Seasons (Palm Springs), Las Brisas (Indio), Mountain View Country Estates (Desert Hot Springs), Paradise Springs (Desert Hot Springs), Watercolors - Income Restricted (La Quinta).

55+ golf course and country club single family homes include Heritage Palms Country Club (Indio), Sun City (Palm Desert), Sun City Shadow Hills (Indio) and Trilogy (La Quinta).

55+ condos and stock co-ops include Desert Braemar (Stock Co-Ops, Rancho Mirage), Jardin De Leones Condos(Cathedral City) and Villa Portofino Luxury Condos (Palm Desert).

There are also over thirty 55+ mobile home communities in our desert area.

For complete information about all of the 55+ communities here in the desert, visit my website at http://www.55plusdeserthomes.com/ or call me today, I'd be happy to help you buy, sell or rent in one of our beautiful neighborhoods. There's certainly something for everyone, in all price ranges and sizes.

VA Home Loans May Help Seniors

2010-11-03T13:11:00.000-07:00

Veterans 55 and older looking to buy a new home in Palm Springs, California should consider a VA home loan to finance their purchase. The VA loan program, which has helped more than 18 million veterans and active duty members achieve homeownership, is a progressive lending program that provides extensive and quality benefits that save borrowers money while enhancing the quality of their lives.

Why Should Veterans Choose a VA Loan?
The VA Home Loan Program was created to honor the service of each veteran, including Vietnam, Korean, and WWII veterans, by providing them with the opportunity to achieve homeownership. The Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees each VA loan allowing VA-lenders to provide borrowers with flexible loan terms and benefits which they wouldn't normally be able to obtain with a conventional home loan.

The VA Home Loan program also offers high loan limits which is highly beneficial for veterans choosing to purchase a home in Palm Springs, California. The warm weather and comfortable living provided by Palms Springs brings the average cost of a home to $210,000, and with a VA loan a veteran can receive a loan of up to $417,000 to cover their costs. Loan limits are even higher for veterans wishing to purchase a home in more expensive real estate areas.

In addition to providing flexible loan terms, competitive interest rates, and high loan limits, VA home loans also offer benefits such as:
• zero down payment
• no mortgage insurance requirement
• regulated closing costs

How Do I Qualify for a VA Loan?
The VA home loan program has no income or credit requirements making homeownership accessible to nearly every veteran. In fact, 80% of all veterans and active duty service members who have secured a VA loan would not have been able to obtain a conventional loan. To be eligible for a loan through the VA Home Loan program, veterans residing, or wishing to reside, in California must meet one following initial requirements:
• Served 181 days on active duty or 3 months during war time
• Served 6 years in the National Guard or Reserves
• Be the spouse of a service member killed in action

A Certificate of Eligibility must also be presented by veterans and active duty service members who meet the initial guidelines. A VA-approved lender may be able to aid potential borrowers with obtaining their Certificate of Eligibility should they not have it.

Although the VA home loan program has no credit requirements, most VA-approved lenders will require a credit score of at least 620 to secure financing.

This post was written by James Kelley of VA Benefit Blog http://www.vabenefitblog.com/ . A law school student at the University of Missouri, James Kelley works to educate the public on government financing options for home purchases. He is a co-founder of Military Basebook, a facebook application that helps connect military members based on where and when they served.

Veteran's Day Parade To Honor All Who Served - November 11

2010-11-02T05:22:00.000-07:00

View the video of last year's very diverse Palm Springs Veteran's Day Parade, which included Cub Scouts, Active Duty Soldiers, Gay and Lesbian Vets and more.

Up to 20,000 people are expected in downtown Palm Springs on Thursday, November 11 for the City’s Veterans Day Parade.

The parade is scheduled to kick off at 3:30 p.m. on Palm Canyon Drive at Ramon Road and head north on Palm Canyon Drive – concluding at Alejo Road. This year’s theme is “Honoring All Who Served.”

Immediately following the parade, a post parade concert will kick off featuring the Marine Corps Combat Band from Twentynine Palms. The concert festivities will conclude with a fireworks finale. All of this will take place at the main stage located at the intersection of Amado Road and Palm Canyon Drive. VillageFest will be cancelled on November 11, the day of the parade.

For the second year in a row, the Veterans Day National Committee of the Department of Veteran Affairs has designated the City of Palm Springs as a regional site for the observance of Veterans Day. Palm Springs was one of only 50 events nationwide to receive this important designation.

With thousands of United States Marines and Sailors stationed locally at the Marine Ground Air Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, the City’s Veterans Day Parade is a must see for many Coachella Valley residents who have family serving overseas in Afghanistan or Iraq or who have had a family member serve in the Armed Forces over the years.

“The City of Palm Springs respects, honors, and appreciates all those who have served and those who continue to serve in our Armed Forces,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet. “Through our annual Veterans Day Parade we extend our thanks for all that they have done and continue to do in protecting our country.”

And a special thanks to our many 55-Plus Vets living here in the desert!

Discounts, Prizes And Freebies Offered At This Year's Desert Home Show

2010-11-01T05:51:00.000-07:00

This year's Desert Home Improvement and Remodeling Show offers free entertainment, free Home Show prices and discounts and free drawing for prizes.
The 2010 event will be held November 5th, 6th and 7th at the Fantasy Springs Special Events Center located at 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway in Indio, CA 92203. Fantasy Springs Resort Casino and hotel is located south and west of Palm Springs, California near the I-10 freeway in Indio and offers 100,000 sq ft of special events center space.

Home Show events will include: Educational and informative demonstrations, displays and seminars on the newest ideas in home improvement and remodeling, including Interior Home Decorating, Home Furnishing, Carpeting, Appliances, Exterior Painting, Room Additions, Kitchen Cabinetry, Landscaping, Swimming Pools, Spas, Decks, Patios, Gazebos, plus "Do-It Yourself" Building Materials, Supplies and Services for 2010.

Home Show HOURS:
Friday 2pm - 7pm
Saturday 10am - 7pm
Sunday 10am - 6pm

For more information, call 1-800-358-7469.

LGBT Seniors On Parade In Palm Springs

2010-10-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

Members of the Golden Rainbow Senior Center marched with pride in the Palm Springs Gay Pride Parade last year and plan to do it again this year. If you want to join in the fun, contact the center for information.
The Golden Rainbow Center - SAGE is located at 700 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262 across the street from Regal Cinemas. Parking behind our building. Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday, plus evening and weekend programs, as announced. Call 1-760-416-7790 or email info@grcps.org.

The parade will take place on Sunday, November 7th at 10am on Palm Canyon Drive in downtown Palm Springs. For complete information, visit http://www.pspride.org/

Yikes, My Home Sold Too Fast!

2010-10-20T06:31:00.000-07:00

I came across this question on Trulia.com this morning and decided to share it. A home seller asked "If a property sells two days after the listing activates with multiple offers over full price, has the agent mispriced it?"

My answer? How ironic that getting your home sold fast would seem like a mistake! As a seller, would you rather that your home had stayed on the market for months without an offer? That would have been mispricing and that's why so many homes never receive offers. The listing expires, the home is put back on the market a year later - with a much lower price - and then it sells immediately. Correctly priced homes almost always sell immediately - usually within days - and they often get multiple offers higher than the asking price. Real estate professionals consider that the goal and an ideal situation, not a mistake.

The problem is that very few homes are correctly priced and that has become the norm. Sellers expect their homes not to sell fast. Unfortunately, most homeowners refuse to listen to their agents, who know what buyers are willing to pay, and insist on over pricing their homes. Kudos to this seller for taking the advice of his agent. It doesn't happen very often. He should consider himself one of the smart and lucky ones!

It's an Alice In Wonderland world we live in when a seller gets upset at his agent for selling his home too fast! If sellers trusted and valued their agents more, most homes would sell fast, but then we'd have a world full of very unhappy sellers, so it's a good thing that that's never going to become reality.

What's Scarier Than Halloween?

2010-10-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

What's scarier than Halloween? A senior driving a golf cart? So, what better way to kick off the season than a Halloween golf cart parade. This year's Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade will be held on Halloween, Sunday, October 31st, 2010 and free senior seating is available.
Space is limited to the first 200 people to sign up over 63 years of age. A limited number of VIP parking passes will be available along with shuttle service from parking to the parade and then back to your car.

The Palm Desert Golf Cart Parade celebrating its 46th year. Parade steps off at 1pm and the Senior Seating area open at 12:30 on the south side of El Paseo. Contact the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce to Reserve your seats today. Four Seats may be included in each reservation. Call: (760)346-6111 or visit the website http://www.golfcartparade.com/

I took the photo above outside of Sun City Palm Desert.

Do You Know The Top 10 Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes?

2010-10-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

According to Bill and Mona Miller, of Estate Planning Services of Incodevco, Inc., Procrastination is the #1 mistake. Want to know the other nine?

You'll have to attend the discussion on Estate Planning at the Mizell Senior Center in Palm Springs, on Monday, November 1st at 2pm. The center is located at the corner of Sunrise Way and Ramon Road in Palm Springs, California. Reservations are not required, but you can call 800-309-3965 or 760-834-8566 for more information.

Among the topics to be considered: What is estate planning? Who needs estate planning? How can we control our estate? Why is Probate so expensive and take so long? Why do we need a REVOCABLE Living Trust? When is an IRREVOCAB LE trust appropriate? How do we avoid or reduce death taxes? Can improper vesting get me in trouble? How do I avoid Medical spend-down? How do unmarried partners do estate planning?

The discussion will be lead by Jeffrey A. Kopczynski, Estate Planning Attorney and Bill and Mona Miller, Estate Planners.

Desert Living On The Cheap

2010-10-15T14:39:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about being over 50 is that now you quality for all of those "senior" discounts and savings. To learn more, start by saving the date: Friday, November 5th, from 9am to 10 am.

Guest speaker, Clark Bufkin will present "Living on the Cheap" at the Golden Rainbow Senior Center SAGE in Palm Springs. Bufkin's presentation will share what discounts are available to people living in Riverside County. You'll learn how to save money on food, utilities, home weatherization, appliances and more. Call the Golden Rainbow Center at 1-760-416-7790 to register. Attendance is free, but a $3 donation would be most appreciated.

The Golden Rainbow Center - SAGE is located at 700 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262. They are across the street from Regal Cinemas and there is ample parking behind the building. Hours: 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Friday, plus evening and weekend programs, as announced. Questions? Call 1-760-416-7790 or email info@grcps.org or visit http://www.grcps.org/.

Name That Oldie And Win!

2010-10-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

Wake up every weekday morning to the desert's oldies station for boomers, KDES 98.5 with Danny Fox playing the Greatest Hits of the 60's and 70's, 6-10am. Danny offers lots of prizes and loads of fun with Celebrity Birthdays and the Daily Almanac at 6:30, "the morning joke" at 7:20, interviews with special guests, morning traffic updates with Tammi Low of the CHP and Name That Oldie at 9am. Danny asks you to name the title of the Oldie and win!

For complete information, visit KDES radio station.

Over 55 But Not Yet Ready To Retire? Attend The Desert Job Expo

2010-10-13T05:57:00.000-07:00

The 15th Valley Wide Employment Expo or Desert Job Expo will be held October 21st, 2010 from 9:00am to 1:00pm at the Riverside County Fairgrounds, Fullenwider Auditorium. They provide businesses an opportunity to network and recruit qualified people for their hiring needs. They provide job seekers an excellent opportunity to meet and apply with local employers.

In past years, they have had hundreds of employers and thousands of job seekers participate. Employment opportunities have ranged from entry level positions to upper management opportunities. Hospitality, retail, banking, gaming, education, and County, State, Federal, and local government agencies are just some of the industries represented.

Admission and parking are free. Free copying services for resumes and applications will be available.

Participating employers include:
Accentcare
Anka Behavioral Health, Inc.
ASEA
Augustine Casino
Best Buy
CET
Conciant Lifestyle Concierge
County of Riverside Human Resources TAP
Desert Adventures
Desert Business Machines
Dunn-Edwards Paints
Ernie Ball Inc
Fantasy Springs Resort Casino
FitzHenry-Wiefels
Giuseppe's Pizza and Pasta
Herbal Nutrition
IHSS Public Authority - Count of Riverside DPSS
Joshua Tree National Park
KESQ-TV 3
KMIR 6 TV
La Quinta Resort & Club/PGA West
Lowe's HIW
Marriott Vacation Club
Mary Kay Cosmetics
Melaleuca
Motel 6
Parker Palm Springs
Premier Residential Services
Proper Solutions Staffing
Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa
Renaissance Palm Springs Hotel
ResCare HomeCare
Riverside County Economic Development Agency/WDC
Riverside-San Bernardino County Indian Health, Inc
Sunline Transit Agency
The Desert Radio Group
The Home Depot
Time Warner Cable
Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians
Verizon Wireless
Address: Riverside County Fairgrounds, Fullenwider Auditorium, 82-503 Hwy 111, Indio, CA 92201. For additional information, visit http://www.desertjobexpo.com/.

Sons Of Italy Pasta Dinner To Benefit Stroke Recovery Center

2010-10-11T11:02:00.000-07:00

Save the date, Sunday, November 19 from 5pm to 8pm to attend the Sons of Italy Pasta Dinner to benefit the Stroke Recovery Center in Palm Springs, California. The event will be held at the Dolly Sinatra Lodge.

Entertainment will be provided by the Evaro Brothers and admission is only $10 per person.
Tickets are available at the door, 2800 E Alejo Road, Palm Springs. Contact the Stroke Recovery Center for more information, 760-323-7676 Extension 112 or http://www.strokerecoverycenter.org/.

Funding Parents' Reverse Mortgage A Win-Win

2010-10-08T16:57:00.000-07:00

The following article is courtesy of the California Association of Realtors.

DEAR BENNY: I want to help my older parents so they can have a more stress-free and comfortable retirement, and believe I am in a position to do so. They have a home in an area where housing prices are actually still increasing, which makes the scenario even more attractive to my husband and me.Their home is valued at about $250,000. They have an interest-only mortgage with a balance of $115,000. I would like to
give them a personally financed reverse mortgage of $115,000 to pay off this first mortgage. So I would give them $115,000 and set the interest rate at 6 percent. The $115,000 grows for me like a long-term, fixed-rate, compound-interest CD would grow, except I would get no payments of interest or principal until they sold the house or the house was sold because they passed away. They would make no payments so long as they were living in the house and I could not/would not get back my investment or interest until the house was sold. Is this correct? For someone who has the funds to invest and is looking for a tax-deferred and safe investment, this sounds like a great opportunity (so long as they can live without the funds for potentially a long time -- which I can). As far as it being a great deal for the elderly parents, I can see no disadvantage to them -- only benefit. Am I missing something? –Lisa

DEAR LISA: Sounds like a good plan -- for you and your parents. However, before you enter into this transaction, I suggest that you consult a tax professional so that you (and your parents) understand the tax consequences. An attorney should also prepare the promissory note and the reverse mortgage document.
When a person (or couple) reaches the age of 62 and is considering obtaining a reverse mortgage from a commercial lender, he generally is required to have a meeting with a consumer credit counselor so that he fully understands the pros and cons of such a reverse mortgage. I don't think that would be necessary in your situation. However, it might make sense to have your parents retain their own attorney, so as to avoid any potential claim that you somehow took advantage of your elderly parents.

DEAR BENNY: I have an older friend whose neighbor has approached her regarding doing a reverse mortgage. They want to acquire her property after her death or when she goes to an assisted living facility. She has a niece and two nephews who will inherit her estate when she is gone. They are not in a position to do a "family" reverse mortgage as you suggested. My question is that my friend feels very comfortable with the honesty and integrity of the neighbor who suggested this, but is it a good idea? She said she would definitely go through a real estate lawyer to prepare the paperwork, etc. What is your opinion? –Betty

DEAR BETTY: As you can see from my previous answer, I advised the parents to get an attorney even though their children were going to lend them the money on a reverse mortgage. In your friend's situation, while she may trust the neighbor, she definitely needs to discuss the entire situation with her own lawyer. If, for example, she would like to leave the house to her niece and nephews after she dies that may not be possible under the reverse mortgage -- or in the worst-case situation, the heirs may inherit a very large mortgage, which would have to be paid off to satisfy the neighbor's loan. Keep in mind at all times that the neighbor wants the house.

Benny L. Kass is a practicing attorney in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. No legal relationship is created by this column.

Benefit for Friends of the Animal Shelter

2010-10-06T16:41:00.000-07:00

All desert area pet lovers are invited to join the Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet at the 55-plus community of Four Season for a special event in support of the new Palm Springs Animal Shelter. Mark your calendars now, the fun will begin at 2 pm until 4 pm on Saturday, October 23rd. The afternoon event will offer music, entertainment, food, and a silent auction with prizes. Wine and vegetarian snacks will be provided.

Where? The ballroom at the Four Seasons Lodge, 3800 Four Seasons Blvd., at the north end of Sunrise Way. Enter on the east side.

Retirement Requires Smart Tax Moves

2010-10-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

The following article is courtesy of California Association of Realtors.

DEAR BENNY: My aunt is 76 years old and lives in her home. She also owns a detached rental property nearby. Her primary residence has been the same property for more than 10 years. She would like to move into a retirement community this year, but to afford this new lifestyle she would have to sell one of her properties soon. Would it be more cost-effective from a tax perspective to sell her primary residence or her rental property? Are there any tax benefits to selling rental property vs. one's primary residence? I have heard about a one-time tax exemption on the proceeds of selling one's primary residence, but I do not understand the rules of this exemption. I was thinking it would be better to sell the rental property first to avoid inconveniencing my aunt's daily routines, and later convert the primary residence into rental property after she moves. She could wait to sell one of the houses until the housing market improves. However, I would not want her to lose a tax exemption or tax benefit by making the wrong decision. –Arlene

DEAR ARLENE: If your aunt is married and files a joint tax return with her spouse, she can exclude up to $500,000 of any gain (profit) that she will make in the house. If she is not married -- or files a separate tax return -- she can exclude only up to $250,000 of gain. In order to take advantage of this gain exclusion, there are two tests: (1) ownership -- you must be on title; and (2) use -- you have to have lived in (used) the property for two out of the five years before it is sold. In your aunt's case, she currently meets both tests: She owns the property and has lived there for a long time. However, if she rents it out and cannot sell within three years from the date she moved out, she will lose that tax benefit. You (or your aunt) should consult a tax advisor, who will prepare an analysis of the pros and cons of selling each house. Everyone's financial situation is different, so I can provide only general advice. I suspect that your aunt has an accountant who has been preparing her tax returns each and every year. He/she should be able to quickly project the tax consequences regarding each house.

Benny L. Kass is a practicing attorney in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. No legal relationship is created by this column.

Get Your Classic KWXY Oldies Radio On The Go

2010-09-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

I exited the 10 freeway onto Jefferson Blvd. the other day, on my way to Trilogy, La Quinta and my radio reception turned into annoying static. I was listening to my favorite oldies station, no not KDES, that's my other fave. I was tuning into the classic, standards, the oldies of the '40s and '50s, on KWXY AM1340 radio. Even when I reached Trilogy, the reception wasn't great.

If you're also in an area of the desert with bad reception, but like me, can't get by without your daily fix of Steve and Edye, Frank and Dean and Ella and Doris, you're in luck. You can now listen to KWXY radio on your computer, from anywhere in the desert or anywhere in the world, for that matter.

I grew up listening to this station, here in the desert, with my grandparents. They died shortly before personal computers were invented, in the 1980s, but if they were alive today, I'm sure they would also find it cool how modern technology is helping to keep the past alive. Visit http://www.kwxy.com/ and take a trip to the past.

Protect Real Estate From Medicaid

2010-08-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

The following article is courtesy of the California Association of Realtors.
DEAR BENNY: Seven years ago, when my mother was 80, my husband and I purchased cooperative apartment shares in a senior complex for her to live in. Since at least one of the tenants had to be over 55, we put her name on the shares, as well as my name. The actual paperwork reads: " 'My Mother's Name' or 'My Name' as joint tenants with right of survivorship and not as tenants in common."

If my mother needs to move to assisted living or a nursing home, will Medicaid try to get possession of this apartment? I've called the co-op's attorney, senior law offices here in Reno, Nev., and I've called private attorneys. No one can give me an answer. One office suggested I call the Medicaid office. As much as I would like to, I think that might give Medicaid an opportunity to take what isn't hers. We used equity in our home to purchase this apartment. My mom lives on Social Security and could never afford this apartment.
One lawyer suggested the co-op "reconvey" the share back to my name, but their bylaws require that whoever is on the deed live there. Any ideas? Are we safe in keeping this, selling it and keeping the monies, or will Medicaid take it? --Penny

DEAR PENNY: This is a complicated question and I am surprised that the senior law offices were unable to assist. There are a number of "elder lawyers" throughout the country, and you can locate them on the Web. I searched "elder lawyers" and found a number of Web sites that should be of assistance to you.
Generally, however, Medicaid (which is administered by the state, with each state having its own rules) does not "get possession" of property. But if your mother applies for Medicaid, I assume she will need to disclose her interest in the co-op as an asset. It is possible that the state will take into account the fact that she is not an "equitable" owner of the property (as she did not contribute to the purchase price of the property) and simply disregard the asset. But even if she is considered to be an owner for Medicaid purposes, the state may impose only a lien on the property rather than require it be sold. In fact, if the state considers the co-op interest an asset of your mother, it wouldn't require her to sell it, but could deny her benefits until her assets, including her interest in the house, were spent down to whatever the threshold is in Nevada. Many states allow a number of exceptions. For example, if a disabled family member (or a spouse, which I assume there
is none) is living in the property, the Medicaid applicant would qualify for benefits and a lien would be imposed on the applicant's share of the property in the amount of any benefits paid -- but the benefits would need to be reimbursed when the property is sold or the disabled person or spouse dies. This is a highly specialized area of law, and not all attorneys understand the rules or the law.

Benny L. Kass is a practicing attorney in Washington, D.C., and Maryland. No legal relationship is created by this column.

Classic Cars Grow More Beautiful With Each Passing Year

2009-10-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

The Great Autos of Yesteryear car club is holding its annual classic car show benefit at the Indian Canyons Golf Resort (South Course) on Saturday, October 24th from 10am until 4pm.

More than 150 beautifully restored, classic, exotic and special interest automobiles from all decades will be on display on the golf course greens.

General admission is $10 per person and all proceeds from this year's show will go directly to three very deserving desert charities: Desert Outreach Foundation, Golden Rainbow Senior Center and the Desert AIDS Project.

The Indian Canyons Golf Resort is located 2 miles south of downtown Palm Springs at 1097 E. Murray Canyon Drive. Food and beverages will be available at the show for purchase.

Great Autos of Yesteryear car club just celebrated its 25th anniversary and is Southern California's premier gay and lesbian classic car club and one of the largest in the world. The club has over 1,100 members with over 300 members in the Coachella Valley area alone. The club’s members have approximately 3,600 collector cars.

Palm Springs Makes List Of 10 Best Places To Retire In 2009

2009-09-18T02:08:00.000-07:00

Palm Springs is #2 on the September 2009, Money Magazine List of Best Places to Retire. Port Charlotte, Floriday made #1.

The article, written by by Sarah Max and Beth Braverman states that, "We pored through the numbers and quizzed real estate experts to identify places that offer terrific value for your housing dollar right now—plus good medical care, reasonable tax rates, lots to do, and plenty of company. While no one can predict exactly when home prices will bottom, most forecasts are for sometime in 2010. This is a fantastic time to buy the home to which you’ll retire, whether you’re a month or a decade from saying sayonara to the office. That’s because home prices in some sought-after retirement havens have plunged about 50% since the market peak, nearly double the national average. You might actually be able to afford a town you once only fantasized about, especially if you’ll be moving from a high-cost area."

So, what makes Palm Springs, California so special for retirees? Here are the statistics, courtesy of the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism.

Population: 48,000
Percent over 50: 42%
Typical 3-bedroom home: $250,000
State income tax: 10.55% (top bracket)

"It's easy to see the appeal of living in the desert town beloved by Frank Sinatra's Rat Pack. Residents get 332 days of annual sunshine, 360-degree views of the mountains, and as much culture and design as they can pack in.

They can see paintings and sculpture in the 125,000-square-foot Palm Springs Art Museum, landmark midcentury architecture by the likes of Richard Neutra and Albert Frey, and indie movies galore at the Palm Springs International Film Festival," says author Sarah Max.

The Slow Food Movement Is Catching On Fast In The Desert

2009-09-17T02:17:00.000-07:00

Last February, the Palm Springs Cultural Center sponsored a certified open-air farmers market in the parking lot of the Camelot Theater. The Saturday event was an immediate success with locals and visitors alike. Not a big surprise.

The Coachella Valley supplies much of the country with its produce, but our own grocery stores are filled with over-priced, under ripe, tastless fruits and vegetables from other parts of the world.

By popular demand, farmers markets were also opened last year, in La Quinta and Palm Desert. If you've forgotten what a tomatoe tastes like, the Palm Springs farmers markets will reopen for the season, on Saturday, September 26th. La Quinta reopens on Sunday, September 27th and Palm Desert reopens on on Wednesday, September 30th.

On Sunday, November 15th, the third-annual Slow Food Farm To Table Celebration will be held at the Jackalope Ranch in Indio. Visit their website for more information.

Desert Samaritans Helps Seniors Stay In Their Homes

2009-08-29T00:16:00.000-07:00

Desert Samaritans for the Elderly is a non-profit organization dedicated to serving the elderly throughout the Coachella Valley. They help over 3,000 individuals a year and rely on donations and volunteers.

The 18TH Annual GOOD SAMARITAN OF THE YEAR AWARD, honoring Pattie Daly Carusosa, will be held Saturday evening, November 21, 2009. Mark your calendars now. The charity event will be held at the Westin Mission Hills Resort and Spa in Rancho Mirage.

Entertainment will be provided by Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries. Visit the Desert Samaritans website to learn more or to contribute.

The Many Rewards Of Getting Older

2009-08-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

For those of you who prefer the slots to Mahjong, The Agua Caliente Casino in Rancho Mirage and the Spa Resort Casino in downtown Palm Springs, want you to join their club. Getting older does have its rewards. (The ad above appears in the current issue of The Bottom Line magazine.)

Is Wii Tai Chi In Your Future?

2009-08-10T03:15:00.000-07:00

Nintendo's Wii Fit exercise and sports games are so popular that I'm surprised they haven't yet offered Wii Tai Chi. I'm sure it's just a matter of time. Until then, you'll have to practice this slow-motion, low-impact, martial-arts based exercise the old-school way, at one of the local senior centers.

The Mizell Senior Center and The Golden Rainbow Senior Center, both in Palm Springs, offer Tai Chi classes. Visit their websites for schedules. The Desert Hot Springs Senior Center also offers Tai Chi classes, but doesn't offer a website. Call (760) 329-0222 for their schedule.

Photo above courtesy of the Golden Rainbow Senior Center.

Still High On Jefferson Airplane And Led Zepplin

2009-08-09T01:56:00.000-07:00

Does seeing Bruce Springsteen on the cover of AARP magazine with the headline "The Boss Turns 60" make you feel younger or older? How about turning to page 76 of the magazine and learning that Jefferson Airplane's silver-haired Grace Slick is turning 70! I'm sure these are both typos.

If I wasn't enjoying myself so much, at 55, maybe it would make me feel old. Instead, it just makes me smile to learn that Marie Osmond is turning 50, Led Zepplin's Robert Plant is turning 61 and KISS' Gene Simmons will be 60 in a few days.

I don't think the Boss has performed in the desert yet, but nearly everyone else has. And that's one of the perks of living here, you can relive your glory days almost any day of the week at one of the many casinos, nightclubs, theaters or restaurants in the area.

For example, The Golden Boys, Frankie Avalon, Fabian and Bobby Rydell are playing at the Morongo Casino tonight, while Foreigner will appear Saturday, August 29 and Daryl Hall and John Oates will perform there Friday, September 11.

How boss is that?

How Old Is Old?

2009-08-06T03:00:00.000-07:00

In case you missed it, The Pew Research Center recently did a survey on Aging Trends and here are some of their findings. According to the respondents you are considered old when:

You turn 85 (79 percent)
You can't live independently (76 percent)
You can no longer drive (66 percent)
You turn 75 (62 percent)
You forget names (51 percent)
You have failing health (47 percent)
You have trouble walking up stairs (45 percent)
You have bladder control issues (42 percent)
You are no longer sexually active (33 percent)
You turn 65 (32 percent)
You retire (23 percent)
You have grandchildren (15 percent)
You have gray hair (13 percent)

Birdies Or Bogeys? The Best And Worst Golf Movies

2009-08-02T00:05:00.000-07:00

I happened to catch Who's Your Caddy, last night on cable. It's a silly, but fun, golf movie that got me thinking about the two biggest pasttimes here in the desert: golf and movies.

We have more golf courses, per capita, than anywhere else in the world and we have a film festival of some sort, nearly every other weekend, it seems. So, I put together this list for all of you golf and movie buffs. If I've left off anyone's favorite, please let me know and I'll include it.

Banning (1967)

Bobby Jones, Stroke of Genius (2004)
Caddy, The (1953)
Caddyshack (1980)
Caddyshack II (1988)
Dead Solid Perfect (1988)
Dreams of Gold: The Mel Fisher Story (1986) (TV)
Follow The Sun (1951)
Gentleman's Game, A (2001)
Golfballs! (1999)
Greatest Game Ever Played, The (2005)
Happy Gilmore (1996)
Legend of Bagger Vance, The (2000)
Miracle on the 17th Green (1999)

Mulligans (2008)
National Lampoon's Golf Punks (1998)
Pat and Mike (1952)
Tin Cup (1996)
Who's Your Caddy? (2007)

How Old Do You Think You Are?

2009-07-26T18:14:00.000-07:00

I love this question from @caro372 on Twitter. "How old would you be if you didn't know your age?"

Depends on the day and when you ask me, but most days I'm 24.

How old are you?

Move Over Starbucks, Make Room For Seniors

2009-07-11T01:29:00.000-07:00

While some may call it discrimination, cafes for senior citizens are popping up all across the United States, and the company behind it promises that their businesses focus on aging well. It's a concept that started in nursing homes and assisted living facilities across the country, which have now expanded into an empire all its own. Grab a coffee at a café for seniors, and make a toast to aging. Read the full article.

Films For The Forever Youngish

2009-07-01T14:56:00.000-07:00

I'm a movie buff and I try not to miss any of the deeply moving and inspring tear jerkers reviewed by AARP's Movies For Grownups.

Guilty pleasures, however, are what keep me young. I prefer movies for those of us who have decided not to grow up. As you might guess, they're all comedies.

Here's a list of my top 10 comedies featuring age as a theme or featuring an older actor who steals the movie. Which comedies about aging are on your list?

The Bucket List (2007)
Calendar Girls (2003)

Death At A Funeral (2008)
The Cemetery Club (1993)
Grumpy Old Men (1993)
Harold and Maude (1971)
The Odd Couple II (1998)
Oh, God! (1977)
Steel Magnolias (1989)
The Sunshine Boys (1975)
There's Something About Mary (1998)

Does LGBT 55-Plus Community Have A Future?

2009-06-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

Rainbow Vision Santa Fe was one of the first gay and lesbian 55-plus communities in the country.

Two years ago, Rainbow Vision announced that their second 55-plus LGBT community would be located here in Palm Springs, near the corner of E. Palm Canyon Drive and Gene Autry Trail. (photos above). Then the booming housing market collapsed and the project was put on hold.

Jane Steinberg, the National Marketing and Sales Director with Rainbow Vision recently said, "We are on hold and plan to resume the project when the credit markets ease up."

To be added to their waiting list, visit the Rainbow Vision Website.

Is There Life After Disco?

2009-05-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

Apparently, for Mark Lee, the construction worker from The Village People, (he took the place of original member David Hodo) there is life after disco. And it's in the desert.

The 50-something Mark, who recorded two albums with the group and toured with them for six years, until they disbanded in 1989, now lives here in Palm Springs, California.

He plays piano and sings in Rancho Mirage at Bing Crosby's Restaurant and Piano Lounge (where "cool and hip never go out of style"). You can catch his act on Sundays and Mondays between 6 and 10 pm.

If you happen to be a fan of both Bing Crosby and The Village People, like me, then welcome to the club, small though it may be.

Hiking With My Grandfather

2009-05-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

As a kid, I was lucky. I had a grandfather who loved to hike. We hiked together in the desert, the hills, the mountains and the canyons in and around Palm Springs, California.

He died at the age of 72, doing what he loved, hiking along a mountain desert trail here in Palm Springs. I should be so lucky, someday in the very distant future!

I took a two mile hike with a friend yesterday to the waterfall in Tahquitz Canyon, which, amazingly, is within walking distance to downtown Palm Springs. On the way down, I passed a young man and the older man he was hiking with - who looked to be in his 70s - who were on their way up the hill.

As they passed, I couldn't help but wonder which is better for your heart, the strenuous exercize or the wonderful memories? I'm lucky to say I have both, to keep me forever young.

Coachella Valley Senior Centers

2009-04-01T18:04:00.000-07:00

We not only have more golf courses per capita than just about anywhere else in the world, but I think we also have more senior centers than any other area this size. Many of the centers are dropping the word Senior, but if you're over 55, you'll fit right in. Hours and other information listed, subject to change. Call ahead for current information.

Cathedral City Senior Center
The Community Center at Tierra del Sol
37-171 Buddy Rogers Ave
Cathedral City, CA 92234
760-321-1548
email to: seniorheart@worldnet.att.net
http://www.cathedralcity.gov/

Coachella Senior Center
1537 Seventh Street
Coachella, CA 92236
760-398-0104

Desert Hot Springs Senior Center
11777 West Dr
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240-3652
(760) 329-0222

Golden Rainbow Senior Center SAGE
700 E Tahquitz Canyon Way, Suite F
Palm Springs, CA 92262-6765
(760) 416-7790
http://www.goldenrainbowseniorcenter.org/

Indio Senior Center
45222 Towne St, Indio, CA 92201
760-347-5111
760-391-4170
Fax 760-791-6448
http://www.indio.org/
Hours: Monday-Wednesday 7:30AM -5:30PM, Thursday 7:30AM-8:00PM, Friday 7:30AM - Noon

Joslyn Senior Center
73-750 Catalina Way
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Voice: 760-340-3220
Fax: 760-568-9230
Email peterr@joslyncenter.org
Staff Office Hours: 8:00am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday
http://www.joslyncenter.org/

La Quinta Senior Center
78-450 Avenida La Fonda
La Quinta, CA
760-564-0096
http://www.la-quinta.org/
Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Mizell Senior Center
480 South Sunrise Way, Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 323-5689
http://www.mizell.org/

Thermal Senior Center
Bingo Games during the week
87229 Church Street
Thermal, CA 92274
760-399-0081