Sun City Woodworkers and Modelmakers Guild, where creativity reigns
BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor
What an amazing group of Sun City residents. All ages, all walks of life, all different backgrounds, but they have found a common outlet for their creativity. With over 980 members, 50 percent of whom never did any woodworking before joining the club, here are some examples of their work.
These community organizations are supported by building furniture or other needed items: United Way, Bluffton schools, Mighty 8th Museum, Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, Habitat for Humanity, Bluffton Self Help, Bluffton library, Jasper Boys and Girls Club, Bluffton Township Fire District. An example of one project was the construction of a beautiful 12-foot banquet table for TCL’s Culinary Institute of the South. Twelve large beach boxes were built for the HHI Turtle Patrol to hold discarded beach items that might otherwise endanger sea turtles.
Within Sun City, members have built swings, benches, arbors, furniture, podiums, cabinets and work benches, and bluebird houses. The Guild also repairs residents’ mailboxes (over 5,000 so far), repairs residents’ furniture and recommends members for work in residents’ homes. And, of course, members make items for their own use, and for sale to the community -- some practical and others simply works of art.
The shop houses dozens of pieces of high-end woodworking equipment. Lathes, drill presses, chop saws, routers, all with the very latest technology, computerized and automated for safety and ease of usage. Equipment is maintained on a daily basis, and every Saturday morning in depth maintenance is performed on all machines.
Safety is a priority for the Guild when multiple members are using the equipment on a daily basis. All new members go through intensive training: an intro to the woodshop and an orientation of the tools. Then cluster training on all the machinery and tools followed by three practi-
cums. The Guild has a Safety Committee which reviews incidents and acts appropriately.
The Guild has five SIGs (Special Interest Groups): Model Railroaders, Woodcarvers, Woodturners, Technology and Woodchicks.
The Technology SIG, the fastest growing, is focused on laser etching/engraving, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) routing, 3D printing and microelectronics.
The Woodchicks SIG makes many of the items that are in the club’s annual sale. Now, 25 percent of guild members are women, and to foster greater comfort and confidence in using the woodshop, the Woodchicks SIG was formed. They complete projects together for personal use and club fundraising and enjoy the camaraderie. While primarily women, the SIG is open to all.
One woodworking technique is intarsia. Intarsia uses varied shapes sizes and species of wood, fitted together to create a mosaic-like picture with an illusion of depth. Sandy Tignor, who does intricate intarsia work, was asked why she is a member. “I truly look for ward to the days I get to work on my Intarsia projects at the wood shop. Not only do I get to use my own creative abilities, but I also get to be part of a group that supports, encourages, inspires and teaches one another.” Members volunteer to do all the work of training, supervision, pur chasing and maintenance, from tool room attendant to shop managers, monitors, instructors and front desk. The Guild was founded in 1998. The first building was 6000 sq feet and was equipped with some of the residents’ own tools. The woodshop, which now covers 9000 sq ft, will undergo an expansion of 2700 sq. ft. To be completed by 2026, it will house the Makerspace, by definition a place in which people with shared interests, especially in computing or technolo-
gy, can gather to work on projects while sharing ideas, equipment and knowledge, a perfect place for the Technology SIG.
Tim Draayom is past president. He worked for Lockheed Martin in California and Atlanta for 35 years. Trained as an architect, he worked as a project manager and design engineer and proposal manager. Tim has always enjoyed woodworking and has his own shop at home. Tim and his wife Kay have two children, a son in NJ with their granddaughter and a daughter in TN. They were drawn to Sun City because it is close to the beach. When asked why he
volunteers Tim said, “I’ve always enjoyed woodworking. I’m in my ‘happy place.’ “ Bob Bass is the new president. He moved to Sun City from Connecticut abut 6 ½ years ago and joined the Guild, having no woodworking experience before that. Bob and his wife Janet have three children and three grandchildren He worked for Pitney Bowes then Leonardo DRS, a defense contractor, as a program manager and project electronic engineer. When asked about volunteering at the woodshop, Bob said “It keeps me busy. I get to meet some great people, and I enjoy the camaraderie.”
For more information about membership, contact Larry Manning at Dr.larrymanning@yahoo.com.
Member Jim Mallett proudly showing his intarsia work
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
Creative vision 2025: artistic fusion
Creative Vision 2025 is set to dazzle Sun City residents with an exhibition that epitomizes the spirit of collaboration and innovation. This vibrant showcase is a joint venture involving the Sun City Photography Club, All About Art Club and Glasscrafters Club, and will run February 7-9 at Pinckney Hall.
The upcoming exhibition promises to be the grandest yet, utilizing Pinckney Hall’s expansive space. It will showcase a stunning array of 142 works from 71 pairs of club members, comprising 71 photographs, 62 art pieces and nine stained glass works. Each pair, formed by a random draw, combines the unique talents of artists, glass crafters and photographers. This innovative matching allows each artist and glass crafter to select a photograph from their paired photographer, fostering a creative synthesis that fully embodies the “Creative Vision” theme, where each artwork is directly inspired by a photographic piece.
Celebrating its 12th year, Creative Vision has grown remarkably since its inception. John Burrack, a longstanding member of the Photography Club, shared the event’s history. “Late in 2012, some members of the All About Art and Photography Clubs decided to have an art show and sale where artists would be randomly paired with a photographer to collaborate on creating two hanging art pieces, a photograph and an artist’s painting or other media work.” Initially named “Double Vision,” the first show in 2013 featured artists’ rendering of the matching photograph. That first show featured 20-25 pairings, and to add community interest, guests were given ballots and asked to vote for their favorite pair works.
“The participants were paired randomly via a drawing of names from each club,” Burrack explained. “Photographers were asked to bring six to ten photos and meet with their artist after the drawing to decide on a picture that would become their vision to hang side by side.” This inaugural event, held in the Art Room, was
a weekend-long affair from Friday to Sunday, drawing in a significant crowd.
Due to its initial success, the show was held annually, eventually outgrowing its original venue. “After three years, the Lifestyle Services Manager noted the high community interest and offered the use of Pinckney Hall to accommodate the larger crowds,” Burrack stated. The event was then renamed “Creative Vision” to encourage pairs to showcase works that were complementary but not identical. In 2022, the Glasscrafters Club joined, adding another layer of creativity to the show.
The 2024 show saw 4,000 residents attend, leading to an expansion in 2025 to utilize the entire ballroom of Pinckney Hall. Visitors this year will not only have the chance to purchase unique artworks offered for sale but also engage actively by voting in five categories.
Gracene Peluso, co-chair of the Steering along with Sue Grilli, detailed this process. “The ballot provided at the entrance includes categories like Favorite Creative Pair, where voters select the duo that best demonstrates creative interpretation of the photograph. There are also categories for Favorite Pairing, Favorite Photograph, Favorite Artwork and Favorite Glass Art.” Peluso emphasized that the “Favorite Pairing” category can include a duplication of the photograph by the artist or glass crafter or a creative interpretation. Other members of the Steering Committee include All About Art Club President Patti Rozonkiewiecz, Glasscrafters Club President Nancy Rast and Photography Club President Stan Holz.
The success of Creative Vision relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers and sponsors. Holz noted, “The entire three-day show is staffed completely by volunteers from the Photography Club, the All About Art Club and Glasscrafters Club. These volunteers manage everything from setup, hosting, cashiering and cleanup, ensuring that the event brings joy to the thousands of Sun City residents who attend.” He added, “We are also very fortunate to have a generous group of sponsors whose contributions help defray the costs of putting on this community
event.”
Creative Vision is free and open exclusively to all Sun City residents, with the exhibition opening hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, February 7; 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, February 8; and 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday, February 9. Winners of the various categories will be announced on Sunday at 1 p.m., after all votes have been counted. This event promises to be a highlight for the community, showcasing the extraordinary talent and creativity of its members in a vibrant and captivating atmosphere.
PHOTOS BY JOHN BURRACK
Sun City 2024 Year-In-Review
Scan the QR code to receive your copy of the 2024 Year-In-Review Report featuring all Sun City sales by model for the entire year.
As we wrap up another year, let’s take a closer look at how the Sun City Hilton Head real estate market performed in 2024. Thedata reveals a dynamic year with notable growth in some areas and stabilization in others, offering valuable insights for both buyers and sellers. 2024 saw a significant increase in new listings, with 847 homes hitting the market a 17% rise compared to 2023. This continues a steady rise in inventory over the years, with December figures climbing from 32 homes for sale in 2021, 63 in 2022, 91 2023, and reaching 172 in December 2024. This surge in inventory provided more options for buyers and contributed to a more balanced market, potentially signaling a shift toward a buyer’s market as sellers face increased competition and slower growth. After a dip in 2023, closed sales climbed by 10% in 2024, reaching 665 transactions. This rebound indicates strong demand and a resilient buyer pool despite fluctuating market conditions. The median sales price in Sun City rose slightly to $516,440, a modest 1% increase from 2023. This stability reflects the community’s enduring appeal and the sustained value of homes in the area. KeyTakeaways.The 2024 Sun City market demonstrated resilience and growth, with increased inventory and a rebound in closed sales. Sellers benefited from stable home prices, while buyers enjoyed a wider selection of properties. As we move into 2025, these trends suggest a healthy and balanced market for the year ahead. For buyers, it’s a great opportunity to purchase while there are plenty of homes to choose from and negotiating power is increasing. For sellers, it’s an opportunity to capture the equity gained from the significant increase in home prices since the pandemic. Whether you’re planning to buy or sell in Sun City, understanding the market’s nuances is essential. Feel free to reach out for personalized insights and guidance tailored to your real estate goals! Additionally, contact me for a complete Year-in-ReviewReport, including sales by model and a price per square foot breakdown for 2024. HowCanIAssistYou?For homeowners considering selling their properties in the near future, I invite you to reach out for a FREE comprehensive Market Analysis and an in-depth market review. By understanding the current market dynamics, we can tailor a strategy that ensures your home stands out and fetches the best possible value in this evolving landscape.
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Bluffton real estate market: What to expect in 2025
BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor
The Bluffton real estate market has garnered significant attention in recent years, and experts predict that 2025 will bring a mix of challenges and opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. Known for its Lowcountry charm, proximity to Hilton Head and rapid development, Bluffton continues to attract retirees, families and second-home buyers.
Market Trends to Watch
The real estate market in Bluffton saw steady growth in 2024, with home prices rising approximately 3-5%, according to local reports. This trend is expected to continue in 2025, albeit at a slower pace. Inventory remains tight, with demand consistently outpacing supply. New construction, particularly in master-planned communities like Palmetto Bluff and Sun City, has helped alleviate some inventory shortages, but demand for existing homes remains high.
Affordability Concerns
As home prices rise, affordability is becoming a concern, particularly for first-time buyers. Bluffton’s median home price is now hovering around $500,000, making it challenging for some buyers to enter the market. Some experts suggest that prospective buyers should act early in the year to take advantage of current mortgage rates, as increases are anticipated by mid-2025.
What Buyers Can Expect
For buyers, competition will remain strong, particularly in desirable neighborhoods close to Bluffton’s historic district and newer communities with amenities like golf courses and pools. While
multiple offers on properties were a hallmark of 2024, experts predict a slight cooling of the market in 2025, giving buyers more room for negotiation.
Opportunities for Sellers
Sellers will continue to benefit from Bluffton’s strong market. Well-maintained homes in good locations are still receiving significant interest, particularly those priced competitively. However, sellers may need to adjust their expectations as homes may stay on the market slightly longer compared to the fastpaced conditions of the last two years.
The Role of Interest Rates
Mortgage rates will play a significant role in shaping Bluffton’s real estate market this year. While rates have remained relatively steady, many experts predict a slight uptick in 2025. Buyers and sellers alike are encouraged to monitor rate changes and consult with financial professionals to navigate potential impacts on affordability and home values. Greg McBride, Bank Rate Chief Financial Analyst stated, “In an environment where inflation is stubborn and economic growth is strong, there’s just not much to push long-term rates materially lower.”
Final Thoughts
Bluffton’s real estate market remains a solid investment, driven by its quality of life, natural beauty and proximity to key destinations like Savannah and Charleston. Experts advise working closely with a local real estate professional who understands the nuances of Bluffton’s unique market.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, 2025 is shaping up to be another dynamic year for Bluffton’s real estate market.
Gary Smythe is a local real agent with William Raveis Real Estate focusing on the Hilton Head and Bluffton areas.
Gary Smythe
BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor
A new lady in my house
There was a time that I could look into a mirror and ad mire the youthful female that reflected back my image. Trim sleek body, long slender legs, lush lashes, full coiffured locks. Those are the vivid images that remain in my memory, still to this day.
I know some lady has moved into my domain and invaded my space. I began noticing my candy supply diminish ing daily. I usually keep a good sup ply of treats in a special drawer. But it was apparent “she”wisely discovered it as I’ve had to re plenish my stash much sooner than normal.
Not only is “she” stealing my treats, but “she” has removed most of my clothing from my closet, washed them in hot water and shrunk them. Lovely outfits that once fit comfortably are now stretching tightly across my derriere. “She” did that! How do I know? Because every time I step on my scale “she” steps on behind me so that I weigh significantly more. “She” makes sure that I’m fifty pounds heavier than what I remember my weight being. There were many years that I could don a bikini, but now “she’s” invaded space inside my body too. I now have to wear a one-piece swimsuit, and even that looks very unattractive on me.
“She’s” so destructive that, while I’m sleeping, “she” must intentionally pluck hair out of my scalp. I used to have a thick mane, but now it resembles plugs of fringe. In some areas I can even see bare patch es. Plus, “she” has somehow been removing the tails on my eyebrows and shortened the length of my once long lash lashes.
I went to my ENT last week to have my ears cleaned out. “She” has
obviously been placing wax or wads of cotton in my ears so that I can’t hear like I once did. I find the television volume is increasingly getting louder and I am repeating “WHAT” a
When the children were young, all I ever wanted to do was sleep. I would tell myself that someday the kids would be gone, and I would be able to sleep in as long as I want. But now “she” wakes me up all night long. Or “she” keeps my mind so actively racing that I can’t even fall asleep. At this point in my life, I am lucky if “she” allows me to sleep four to six hours a night. Not only is “she” taking over my body, but now “she’s” invading my nights.
When I go to brush my teeth, I realize that “she’s” even confiscated most of my teeth. Just add that to the list of my lost hearing, brows, my slim body, lashes and that beautiful head of hair.
The final straw is when I peer into the mirror, “she” has put these age spots all over my face along with liver spots consuming my hands.Skin that was once tight and fresh looking is now wrinkled and sagging. But the one thing “she” left me with, in my old age, is my eternal teenage acne.
One day when they lay me to rest, people will look upon me and say, “When did she get so fat? Look at how thin her hair got and, wow, she has no brow-tails or lashes. But look, beneath her wrinkled aged skin is a reminder of when she was a teen. Her face is still covered with pimples.” And that is how the new lady moved into my house
Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.
Launch into Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show
BY LUCIA CROSBY Contributor
Staying Connected invites you to our Launch Into Spring Luncheon and Fashion Show, presented by Aiden Lane, on March 7, 2025, in Pinckney Hall from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Step into a World of Lowcountry Spring Styles for 2025.
A Pop-Up shop with a selection of Aiden Lane’s Spring Collection will be available for purchase. So come early and browse the trends for Spring 2025. Nora Innis, Head Buyer, has included in her collection elevated casual dressing for our everyday life with a sophisticated comeback for pastels in blue, pink, and barely butter.
Tickets are $45 per person and include a fabulous lunch buffet by Smoking Valley Chef and complimentary wine bar. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit our website at stayingconnectedschh. org.
Our Launch Into Spring Luncheon and
Fashion Show helps support Staying Connected’s mission of “neighbors helping neighbors.” We bring together folks who want to help with folks who need help. Our dedicated volunteers constantly tell us they feel they are making a positive impact both for themselves and our members. Thanks to the support from the local community, Sun City residents, Sun City clubs, groups and neighborhoods, and our partner sponsors, we have been able to keep our membership fees low and affordable, allowing us to assist our most vulnerable residents.
Our resource hub with a vast library of information is conveniently located in the Yemassee Craft Center and is open Monday - Friday from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. It is available to all residents of Sun City who have questions or need help dealing with “life happens” events. Our At a Glance reference guides include contacts for legal services, both state and county, Nutrition/Meals/Groceries, Elder Abuse, Crisis Intervention, Dementia Care, and Home
Care, Medical and Non-medical. You can even find help with dog and cat sitters/ walkers, handyman services and critter management. In our 10 years of operation, our hub has assisted well over 12,000 visitors.
Volunteers are the heart of our organization, and we have many volunteer opportunities if you would like to experience the rewards of helping others. Our volunteers are Sun City residents who work on their own schedules. There are no minimum requirements. Volunteer openings include Medical/Grocery Transportation, Care Giver Relief and Home Visits, Basic Home Maintenance, Resource Hub and Administrative Support. If you have a special talent, reach out! We would love to talk to you. Volunteer applications are available on our web site, stayingconnectedschh.org, or call the Hub, 843-705-2259. They will take your application over the phone. Attend an orientation and learn who we are and what we do. Staying Connected’s mission is to assist
Sun City Hilton Head residents in remaining engaged in our active adult community by providing a helping hand and access to information, support and services which allow them to address life’s challenges. Our President, Tom Hahn, sums it up best, “We are committed to helping our neighbors maintain a safe and secure lifestyle while supporting their independence as long as they are able.”
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