David Zapatka The dink is pickleball’s most nuanced shot, deceptively simple to learn, endlessly deep to master. While beginners treat it as a stopgap between rallies, advanced players weaponize it. Here’s how to transform your dinking game from passive to dominant. Elite dinks share three qualities. They land in the kitchen, stay low over the…
Tag: Community
July 2026, Features
Jacquie’s Corner: America at 250: A Personal Reflection on Our Nation’s Birthday
Jacqueline M. Ruffino This year, America celebrates its 250th birthday—a remarkable moment in history. Two hundred and fifty years ago, in 1776, a group of determined men signed the Declaration of Independence and gave birth to a new nation founded on liberty, courage, and hope. It is hard to imagine all that has happened since…
Generals, July 2026
Neighbors Who Care – July 2026

Quiet Strength, Deep Faith: Meet Carolyn Robin Wilson Meet Carolyn, one of those quiet, dedicated volunteers who genuinely prefers the background to the spotlight. When asked to be featured, her immediate response was that many others were far more deserving. But Carolyn’s life of service, resilience, and quiet impact is exactly what makes her a…
July 2026, Generals
Why a Deficiency-Free Survey Matters: A Commitment to Excellence in Senior Living
Lance Williams, Executive Director, Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes When families begin exploring senior living options, they often focus on beautiful apartments, engaging activities, dining experiences, and amenities. While these features are certainly important and present at Robson Reserve at Sun Lakes, there is another measure of quality that deserves equal attention: regulatory compliance and…
June 2026, Clubs & Classes
Sun Lakes Lions Club – June 2026

Evening Lions Club Donates 350 Books to Support Local Students Chris Linder, PR The Sun Lakes (evening) Lions Club is helping young readers build skills and confidence by donating 350 books to students at Shumway Learning Academy and Picacho Elementary School. The donation is part of the club’s Kids Need to Read project, a community effort focused on increasing access to age-appropriate…
June 2026, Front Page
IOTC Hosts High-Energy All Clubs Season Finale

DD Kullman The IronOaks Tennis Club (IOTC) brought the season to an exciting close on April 11, hosting its highly anticipated All Clubs Season Finale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. More than 100 players from across the community took to the courts for a morning packed with spirited competition, camaraderie, and nonstop action. Participating…
Clubs & Classes, June 2026
Cheers Social Group Activities

Cathy Merritt Cheers Trip Opportunities Below is a brief, non-inclusive list of available travel opportunities: Mystery Tour: To ???? That’s why it’s called a “mystery” tour, July 30. Pageant of the Masters: Aug. 19 to 22. From $1,395 pp/double, $1,795.; This annual art show and tableau exhibit is run by volunteers and is remarkable. Les Miserables and…
June 2026, Generals
Message from the President
Jean Nelson I continue to be inspired by the many positive moments that strengthen our community and bring neighbors together. I am very pleased to see the improvements in the plantings and landscaping along the walkway to the Cottonwood Restaurant that were accomplished by our Maintenance Department. They are going to enhance the aesthetics of…
June 2026, Sports
Relishing Pickleball: Resetting the Rally
David Zapatka Momentum can shift in an instant. One moment you’re in control, dictating pace and placement; the next, your opponents are driving balls at your feet and forcing you into defensive scrambles. That’s where the art of resetting the rally becomes essential. A well executed reset doesn’t just keep you in the point, it…
June 2026, Front Page
Summer Hiking Begins

Warren Wasescha, Sun Lakes Hiking Club June marks the start of summer hiking. For some club members, that means hiking trails near their summer homes up north where the temps are cooler. For others, it’s a well-planned vacation in far-away places. And for those that stay in Sun Lakes, it’s adapting to summer conditions. Our…
