Anthem lifestyle reigns supreme

Lillian Lopez never imagined she would be a beauty queen at the age of 68. The Sun City Anthem resident was named first runner-up at the Ms. Senior Nevada competition, held recently in Laughlin.

"There were several events, including an evening gown competition, cocktail attire, talent, and a segment to talk about our philosophy of life. It was very exciting," she said.

Lopez's husband, Robert, and her two sons, encouraged her to enter the contest, which was open to Nevada women 65 years and older. She represented the city of Henderson.

"It was just a lot of fun, all of us being together and doing it. We had three days of rehearsal, learning stage presence, and competition. The experience and camaraderie was fantastic. I also won first place in the talent contest, singing `Route 66.' And since I'm not a professional singer, it was a real thrill," Lopez said.

She is, however, no stranger to the stage. Lopez is a former showgirl who performed in New Jersey, New York, Miami and Las Vegas.

"I worked for Lou Walters, Barbara Walters' father, who produced stage shows in New York's Latin Quarter," Lopez said.

She also was one of the original showgirls in the Follies Bergere at the Tropicana Hotel.

"My husband, Robert, owned Chateau Madrid, one of largest night clubs in the city of New York."

Lopez also devoted much of her time to charity.

"When the Latin Quarter closed, we showgirls put together a fund-raising organization for missing and abused children called `Little Ones Wanting,' which I participated in for 16 years."

She was also active in `Friends Indeed,' which raised funds for disabled people.

The Lopezes moved from the East Coast to the valley because, "... We've always loved Las Vegas."

They lived in Las Vegas for three years before moving to the age-qualified community in Henderson a month ago.

"We selected Sun City Anthem because we wanted to be in a place where there are activities for people of our generation. I like the idea that we can be involved," Lopez said.

They purchased the Jefferson model, which features a great room and a master bedroom on the opposite side of the house from the guest room.

"I love the openness and spacious feel to the rooms," she said.

The couple also appreciate the amenities and activities available at Anthem Center, a facility for social and recreational events.

In addition to Trumpets Restaurant and Lounge, which is open to the public, the center offers features such as exercise equipment, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, walking tracks and wellness programs for residents.

"We like the fact that it's all there if we want to use it," Robert Lopez said. "I'm finding that I have a great deal in common with my neighbors. There's a lot to enjoy here."

The community offers 19 models, ranging from 1,080 to 3,009 square feet. Homes are priced from the mid-$140,000s to more than $500,000.

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 are open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Real Estate home