Some things learned, with a somewhat broken version
Login to origin. Well not exactly science.
If you are given the opportunity to log into your current town or create a new one, CANCEL out, close the app, and restart the game.
I have found that many people don't know how to close an app completely. Double tap home to access the quick launch, then hold on an icon until you get red negative symbols, and then tap the negative symbol to close an app. Then launch the game anew. Good info, save battery.
IMPORTANT: one of the only ways to ensure a save is to go friend town selection, then back to your house. A save message is sent to the server.
Game is being worked on, so hope it gets more stable.
Origin id: dragoonmike8 - good stuff