David Zapatka This comment was printed in a recent news article: “Taleblu warned against Western attempts to divide the country. ‘The way to unite the Iranian population is not to talk about balkanization,’ he said. ‘That would be an own goal of moral and strategic proportions.’” Balkanize—bal·kan·ize verb 1: to break up (a region, a…
Features, August 2025
Living Retired: The “Joy” of Aging
Gary Chalk My wife, Jan, and I recently hosted two couples we have been friends with for many years. When we picked the date, we agreed instead of our usual evening dinner get-togethers, to make it a lunch so our friends did not have to drive home in the dark. It’s called aging. Aging was…
August 2025, Features
Uninitiated Contact: The First Step in the Scam Process
R.O.S.E., Resources/Outreach to Safeguard the Elderly When it comes to scams, the first step is often the most dangerous—and the most overlooked. Scams usually begin with uninitiated contact. That means a phone call you didn’t expect, a text from a number you don’t recognize, or an email asking you to “click here” or to “verify”…
August 2025, Generals
Fitness Is Your Responsibility
Gary Potter Water: Nectar of the gods? We use water for swimming, bathing, fishing, in toilets, on plants, washing clothes and vehicles, cooking, and much much more. But what about drinking? Many of us give up water for other liquids, don’t we? Some just give it up because they don’t like the taste … hmm? But…
August 2025, Generals
Deadline Reminder and How to Submit Articles
The deadline for the September edition is Friday, Aug. 8, by noon. Please send your submissions on time, and early if possible! You can email your submissions to editorial@robson.com or use our website link: robsonpublishing.com/editorial. For article and photo guidelines or if you have any questions, please call 480-895-4216.
Generals, August 2025
Theater at the Ranch Brings Music and Comedy for 2026
Deborah Dorman Taking on new challenges for the next new year, Theater at the Ranch, Robson Ranch’s resident production company, will present the musical “9 to 5” from Jan. 29, 2026, through Feb. 1, 2026. This musical comedy, written by Dolly Parton and Patricia Resnick, is based on the movie of the same name, and…
July 2025, Front Page
Happy Birthday, America!

Tamara Weaver Possibly only Christmas surpasses the nostalgia associated with celebrating America’s birthday. Americans flock with their families and friends to events including fireworks, parades, barbeques, and baseball games–all to honor our country’s birthday. The patriotism is not lost on the Robson Ranch Fused Glass Club. The love of country is so easily integrated in…
July 2025, Features
Joyful Downsizing: How to Create a Fitness Hub in Your Home
Kim Kubsch Transforming any space into a fitness hub is a productive and convenient way to invest in your health. Here is a step-by-step guide to add fitness in your home! 1. Assess the space • Measure the dimensions of your space. What equipment and fitness activities will fit? • Check the ceiling height to…
July 2025, Generals
The Remodeling Corner
Janet Cook More homeowners are choosing to invest in remodeling to upgrade their experience rather than move due to high mortgage rates and limited housing inventory. In fact, home remodeling projects in the U.S. are projected to rise by 222,400 in 2025—a 5% increase over the previous year. The 37th annual Cost vs. Value Report…
July 2025, Generals
Savor Retirement: Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Retirement
Timothy Malone, Ph.D. Retirement is often envisioned as a time of leisure and relaxation, free from the demands of the workforce. However, this transition can be accompanied by unexpected emotional challenges for many retirees, including frustration, resentment, and even anger. These feelings may stem from financial concerns, health issues, changes in social roles, or feelings…