SEPTEMBER 2025 NEWSLETTER |
President's Message
The first thing I had to do when obtaining my administrative credential was to write down my beliefs and values and then think about what actions I would take based on those beliefs. In my job as Program Manager for the school district’s literacy department, I tried my best to stick to my beliefs and values when making curriculum/administrative decisions. I will do the same as president and volunteer of our Village. That said, I will share one of my beliefs.
I believe establishing relationships is important. As an educator it didn’t matter how much I knew, until the teachers and students I worked with knew how much I cared. I want you to get to know me as a family member, leader, volunteer, friend and a constant learner. I want to get to know and appreciate the diversity in our members. If I believe establishing relationships and connections are important then I need to provide more opportunities for people to get to know each other and allow time for collaboration.
Action Step #1: Have more “Casual Conversations”: morning coffee chats or afternoon desserts. These are informal gatherings aimed at building connections, gaining insights and exploring opportunities. These relaxed discussions without a strict agenda will hopefully allow members to connect on a more personal level and build rapport. It’s an opportunity to get to know each other, strengthen existing relationships, foster new friendships, share interests and ideas, ask questions and get updated on lives and events. Save the date for the first Casual Conversation on Tuesday, October 7th at 1PM.
Action Step #2: Meet with the committee leaders. This is a meeting for members who have stepped up to be leaders within the committees and sub committees. It’s an opportunity to share ideas and concerns related to their committees. It's also an opportunity for the leaders to give input and gain insight on items related to the Village’s Purpose and Mission.
If you believe in the importance of building connections within our membership and have other ideas related to small gatherings, feel free to email me. I will share these ideas with the appropriate committee and/or the Board of Directors.
I’ll end with a favorite quote of mine: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” - Helen Keller
Ginny VanBenthuysen
TVSD Board President
|  | | Happy 17th Anniversary TVSD!
Villagers, it’s the month of September and time again to remind everyone of the 17th Anniversary of the Village. This year (2025), I had a “lightbulb moment” and the song by Earth, Wind and Fire -- “September” came to mind and has now become one of my favorite “September” TVSD songs.
For a look back to see how far we’ve come, the Tierrasanta Village of San Diego (TVSD) was first named “Tierrasanta Project” spear-headed by Co-Founders, Candy Walsh and Susan Deininger. They read an AARP Magazine article about Beacon Hill Village…”Declaration of Independents: Home is where you want to live forever. Here’s how…”. Their idea was to create a similar model here in Tierrasanta.
A Kick-Off Gala was held on September 27, 2008 and an exciting new journey began for those Tierrasanta residents aged 50+ who listened to guest speakers, asked questions and some joined the Village at the end of the evening.
TVSD has continued to stay in touch (with members) by monthly meetings, Zoom, social events, phone calls, emails, exercise/health awareness topics, or seeking care related needs.
Congratulations to TVSD for 17 years of determination and continued growth!
Trish Newbill
Village Historian
|  | | Free Cybersecurity & Smartphone Classes
In partnership with the San Diego Seniors Community Foundation, TVSD will host a 12-part Cybersecurity & Smartphone Essentials Workshop.
These engaging classes will cover practical smartphone skills, fraud prevention, and cyber security basics, all in an supportive easy-to-follow format tailored for older adults.
Sample topics include:
Smartphone essentials
Smartphone hardware basics
Understanding QR codes
Cyber Security & Passwords
Cyber Security & Scams, and more!
The 12 workshops will provide a powerful hands-on learning experience designed to help older adults stay connected, confident and protected in the digital age.
All workshops will be held 1:00-2:30 p.m. at the Seventh-day Adventist Church, 11260 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. Registration is required and seating is limited.
You do not need to attend every class; however, the classes do not stand alone. You will build your knowledge based on education obtained in earlier classes, so plan to attend as many as possible. The TVSD Front Desk can help you obtain materials from any missed classes.
NOTE: YOU ONLY NEED TO REGISTER FOR THE FIRST CLASS ON SEPTEMBER 15TH. YOU WILL THEN AUTOMATICALLY BE SIGNED UP FOR ALL 12 CLASSES. As mentioned above, it is ok if you miss a class, but you will be registered for all 12.
CLASS DATES:
Monday, September 15th
Monday, September 29th
Monday, October 13th
Monday, October 27th
Monday, November 10th
Monday, December 1st
Monday, December 15th
Monday, January 12th
Monday, January 26th
Monday, February 9th
Monday, February 23rd
Monday, March 9th
| Grant Awarded to TVSD
There is more exciting news to share from our partnership with San Diego Senior Community Foundation (SDSCF).
Many of you heard from Junne Esguerra of San Diego Seniors Community Foundation when she visited our Member Meeting earlier this year. As you may recall, this nonprofit is dedicated to raising awareness and action towards senior support initiatives in San Diego.
Recently, TVSD applied for a grant through SDSCF and received $5,870! These funds will go towards our new staff member who will ultimately aid in the design of our Member Services Implementation Plan. These new support services will help seniors remain independent by connecting them to volunteer-provided help with transportation, handyman services, well-checks, and technology support.
Thank you SDSCF for supporting Tierrasanta Village and for the amazing work you do for seniors throughout San Diego! | Social Committee Update
It’s already been a summer filled with fun events, with more fun times to come in September and October!
Our August Boot Scootin BBQ was truly a yummy and fun time for all. The BBQ, catered by Phil’s BBQ, included ribs, chicken, and sides; and our TVSD bakers provided homemade cornbread and sweet treats. The event also included western tunes, line dancing, trivia games and socializing with friends. A special thank you to our event leader, Denise Gregor, and the entire planning team. Be sure to check out this great video of the TVSD line dance from the event.
Don’t miss our September event:
Happy Hour Bingo
Tuesday, September 16th @3 pm
Registration closes Thursday Sept 11th, 5 pm.
Tierrasanta Lutheran Church
Cost is $ 10.00
Light snacks, water and ice tea will be provided. Members are welcome to bring other beverages of their choice for themselves or to share. Register here.
Coming in October:
Lafayette Hotel Tour
Tuesday, October 14th @ 1 pm
Registration closes, Monday, October 13th at 5pm
Tour the famous Lafayette Hotel on El Cajon Blvd. Join us for a late lunch and informal tour of the “Golden Age of Hollywood” in a vintage Hollywood setting. Bob Hope was the first one to sign the guest book. It was a playground for stars such as Ava Gardner, Lana Turner, Lucille Ball, John Wayne, Betty Grable, and Harry James. It was then called Imig Manor and in 1955 it was renamed Layfette Hotel. It was listed as a National Historic Hotel in 2012. So much history and glamour to see! Register here.
Also in October:
Ice Cream Social
Thursday, October 30th @ 1 pm
Registration closes Friday, October 24th at 5 pm
Here’s the scoop! Come to the clubhouse for an afternoon of camaraderie and enjoy a bowl full of ice cream deliciousness. Ice cream, toppings and water will be provided. Cost: $5.00 per person @ the door. Register here. | Wanted: A Volunteer for the TVSD Idea Bank
You may ask: What is the TVSD Idea Bank?
Basically, it is a person who serves as the repository for ideas that members have for a new activity or event. It was started several years ago by member Carol Lee and she has been the recipient of many ideas such as starting a golf group and creating the Village Vocals singing group.
This is how it works: If you had an idea for a village activity, you would contact Carol, who in turn, would advertise and promote it to see if there were enough interested members to bring this idea to fruition. Then she would work with Cassandra to place it on the calendar with registration details. And “Voila” …. The idea becomes a weekly or monthly activity!
Carol is getting ready to retire from this position and we are in need of a “point” person to be the contact and sounding board for all of our members’ creative ideas.
There’s no meetings to attend, no minutes to read, no bylaws to follow. All you need is a willingness to listen to ideas and to help promote them. If you are interested in this position, please contact Carol Lee for more information or contact Marilyn Bente, Membership Chairperson.
| September Member Meeting
The next Member Meeting is Monday, September 8th at 3pm at the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The presenter at this meeting will be Stacy Self from Measured Wellness.
Measured Wellness is pioneering a new approach to health that combines expert lifestyle education with cutting-edge data tracking. Their program is designed to empower individuals to take control of their well-being by providing them with the tools and insights to understand their body better. Through personalized coaching and continuous data monitoring, they help patients make informed decisions that lead to real, sustainable results. The best part? These services are covered by Medicare, making this comprehensive support accessible to all who need it (https://www.measured-wellness.com).
Please bring your name badges and non-perishable food items for the Seventh-day Adventist ongoing Food Drive - thank you.
Join members after the meeting for dinner at Gaetano's!
| The Pillars of Longevity: Small Daily Choices, Big Lifetime Impact
Members who are interested in learning more from the Measured Wellness team should plan to attend the group's more in-depth presentation "The Pillars of Longevity: Small Daily Choices, Big Lifetime Impact" on Thursday, September 25th at 1 pm. Attendees will learn about the Measured Wellness Program and discover the five foundations proven to protect independence, vitality, and joy as we age.
Please register and plan to stay after the presentation to sign up to receive your Medicare covered health tracking device. | The Aging Eye
As we age, we can expect changes in our vision. Please plan to attend for an overview of vision problems; diagnosis, treatment options, and assistance available to assist with low vision. This event will be held at the Seventh-day Adventist Church on September 19th, 1:30-3:00 p.m. Please register. | Honor Flight Letter Writing
The next opportunity to take part in the Honor Flight letter writing campaign is September 3rd, 2:00-4:00 p.m. at the Clubhouse.
One of the highlights of the Honor Flight is “Mail Call” where there is a surprise distribution of cards and letters showing appreciation for all that these veterans have done for our country.
Our Village is going to hold a letter writing campaign to add to the hundreds of letters needed. We are asking you to come and spend some time writing messages of appreciation. The cards and stationary will be provided; we just need lots of volunteers to generously give of their time to pen some thank you notes. This is an opportunity for some of our “one time” volunteers!
Please register if you can plan to volunteer.
| Time Bank
For some time now, Time Bank has been encouraging individuals to engage, share, and thrive together. We’re pleased to equip you with resources that will kickstart your Time Banking adventure! Join us as we create a culture of giving and receiving. Contact a Time Bank leader for more information.
- TVSD Time Bank Committee
Carmela Cavero: 858-649-3869
Delise Konigsbach: 858-277-0605
Lesley Fitzpatrick: 760-809-1523
Mike Sisson: 619-370-4574
| Care Committee Corner
September is Fall Prevention Awareness Month
It seems like every month is dedicated to awareness of a cause. In the case of September, it’s Fall Prevention Awareness Month. I’m not talking about preventing the Fall season, pumpkin spice everything, leaves changing color, and cooler temperatures. Those are all wonderful things! I’m talking about preventing yourself from falling.
Did you know that one in four adults aged 65+ falls each year? And that falls are the number one cause of nursing home admissions? What can you do to minimize your risk of falling? Here are some steps you can take:
1. Talk to your doctor about medications and supplements you are taking. Will any of them cause dizziness and increase your risk of falling?
2. Participate in activities that improve your balance and strength. It’s best to check with your doctor to clear any exercises you’d like to start. In addition, make it a habit to wear shoes with a minimal or no heel, and slip-resistant soles.
3. Check your eyesight. Get an eye exam yearly.
4. Make your home safer. Remove fall hazards in and around your home. Install grab bars in your shower, make sure your home has sufficient lighting, and secure rugs and carpets to the floor.
There are more helpful tips available online from the County of San Diego Aging and Independence Services, at www.SanDiegoFallPrevention.org.*
*This information was excerpted from “A Guide to Preventing Falls”, from the County of San Diego.
- Joan McGeachy, TVSD Care Committee
| | TVSD Golf Group
Join the Golf Group every Wednesday morning for 9 or 18 holes and lunch following. The group is co-ed and always looking for more players. Contact member HT Linke (linkeshi@hotmail.com) for more information. | | | Volunteers Needed
Enjoy reading? How about volunteering about 1-1/2 hours one morning a week helping some first- or second-graders improve their reading skills? Join the Everyone-A-Reader program at Vista Grande Elementary School. It starts mid-September and runs through May. No prior teaching skills needed. Very rewarding! Just ask members Dick Benton, Oiuda Raaz, or Sue Ross. Contact Martha Moffett at m3moffett@gmail.com for more information. | Financial Focus®
You Have an Estate Plan — Whether You Know It or Not
Think estate planning is only for the wealthy or elderly? Think again. If you own anything — a home, a car, a savings account, even a pet — you already have an estate plan. The only question is: Did you create it, or will your state do it for you?
When someone passes away without an estate plan, state laws take over, deciding who gets what and when. This legal process may not reflect your wishes. That’s why taking control of your assets through a personal estate plan should be a top priority.
At its core, estate planning is about clarifying your wishes and making things easier for your heirs. It ensures your assets are distributed according to your preferences, designates who will make decisions on your behalf if you can't and provides guidance for your care in a medical crisis. Most plans include four key components:
1. A Will – This document outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death and names an executor to oversee the process in probate court. It can also designate guardians for minor children. Keep in mind that a will doesn’t cover everything — certain transfer on death (TOD) accounts and jointly held property may bypass your will entirely.
2. Power of Attorney – If you become incapacitated, you’ll want someone you trust to be able to make decisions on your behalf. A durable power of attorney designates such a person, helping to ensure your bills are paid, your business continues (if you have one) and your wishes are honored.
3. Health Care Directive – Sometimes called a living will, this document spells out your preferences for medical treatment if you're unable to speak for yourself. It can also designate someone to make health care decisions for you.
4. Beneficiary Designations – Accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs, and life insurance policies transfer directly to the people you name, regardless of what your will says. It’s essential to review these beneficiary designations regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, death of a spouse or the birth of a child.
One common myth is that a will is all you need. But wills only take effect after death; they don’t help if you’re alive but unable to make decisions. Another misconception is that estate planning is only for the wealthy. In truth, planning is about more than money — it’s about making things easier for the people you love during difficult times.
An effective estate plan can prevent costly legal battles, reduce confusion and give your loved ones a clear roadmap to follow. It also allows you to leave a legacy that reflects your values and priorities.
As your life changes, your estate plan should change along with it. Review your documents every few years or after major life events. It’s often a good idea to seek help with such reviews. Your financial advisor or attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring your plan fits your unique circumstances.
In the end, estate planning isn’t just about planning for what happens when you are gone. It’s about feeling confident, knowing that what matters most — your family, your purpose, your legacy — is protected.
This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Robert Farwell, CFP®, RICP®, your local Edward Jones financial advisor at 858-514-8876, 6050 Santo Rd, Suite 140, San Diego, CA 92124.
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
| Village Member Discounts
Reminder: Members of TVSD have access to special offers and discounts from our Supporting Partners and local businesses. Offers like:
- Complimentary session to determine needed estate planning documents, including review of existing documents (Wedeking Law)
Be sure to check out the full list of offers here. | | Tuesday Lunch Bunch
Gaetano's Restaurant
September 16th, 11:30 a.m. | | ROMEO
Elijah's
September 9th, 11:30 a.m.
| | |
Solo Network (SNAP)
Filippi's Pizza
September 20th, 11:30 a.m.
| | Filippi's Fundraiser
Monday, October 20th
4 PM to 8 PM
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa
5353 Kearny Villa Rd.
San Diego, CA 92123
Filippi’s will be donating 25% of participating sales to our group. Thank you Filippi’s! Check out the menu at https://realcheesepizza.com/kearny-mesa. Show this flyer at the time of purchase.
Thank you for supporting Tierrasanta Village! | |
September 2025 Village Events
The Village Front Desk & Clubhouse will be closed on Monday, September 1st for Labor Day
Check out the full Event Calendar for all of the upcoming events, classes, and activities!
| | | | Wheelchair Dancers Organization (WDO)
| Tierrasanta Library
The monthly Book Sale is Friday 89/5 10:00 - 5:00, Saturday 9/6 10:00-5:00 and Monday 9/8 12:00-6:00. | | Thinking about joining Tierrasanta Village?
Attend the next Informational Happy Hour! This event is an excellent way to meet our members and learn about the Village Movement.
Every 3rd Wednesday 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Let us know you'll be there with a Call/Text to 858-569-9119 or email tierrasantavlg@gmail.com. | | | Tierrasanta Village
Clubhouse Address:
5275 Rimpark Lane
San Diego, CA 92124
858-569-9119
www.tierrasantavillage.org
Mailing Address:
10601 Tierrasanta Boulevard, G-405
San Diego, CA 92124 | |