Former Californians' new life on track at Sun City Anthem

Californians Craig and Tamara Powers turned their Las Vegas vacations into a new life. The two, who frequently visited Lake Mead to enjoy water sports, purchased a home at Del Webb's age-qualified Sun City Anthem community in Henderson.

Originally from Los Angeles, Powers has worked in the broadcast industry for 25 years. Now working locally, he said he still has time to enjoy his hobby, garden railroading, which he has introduced to new friends and neighbors.

"We've got garden railroading as well, which works out nicely since my wife's hobby is gardening. This is a great project for couples," he said.

The Powers purchased a 1,564-square-foot Andover plan with two bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage.

Although it is no longer available, 12 other single-story designs are offered, ranging from 1,496 to 3,175 square feet and priced from the high $370,000s to the low $660,000s.

All homes have earned the Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star label and include Environments for Living technology, which offers energy-saving features such as low-e windows and blown-in cellulose insulation. They also provide a three-year heating and cooling energy-use and comfort guarantee.

"My utility bills have been much lower here than in California," Powers said.

Whenever possible, the Powers enjoy working out and swimming at Anthem Center, a 77,363-square-foot recreation facility.

"There's a great view from the Anthem Center that really motivates you to spend time there," he said.

In addition to offering social, recreation and fitness opportunities to residents, the center houses Trumpets Restaurant and Lounge, which is open to the public.

Construction has begun on the community's second recreation center, a 35,865-square-foot facility that will include a fitness area, multipurpose room, woodworking shop, arts and crafts room, card room, billiards room, Community Services Center, as well as a speaker's hall and performing arts center with auditorium seating and a raised stage.

Additionally, The Revere at Anthem Golf Club features two 18-hole championship courses.

To visit, take Eastern Avenue south, two miles past St. Rose Parkway, turn left on Anthem Parkway and then turn right on Alexandria Drive.

Models and the sales office are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Del Webb is a subsidiary of Pulte Homes Inc., one of the nation's largest home builders, and a leading builder of communities for people age 55 and older. The developer also offers the age-qualified Solera at Anthem in Henderson and Sun City Aliante in North Las Vegas, as well as the all-ages Club Aliante in North Las Vegas.

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