The SUN CITY SUN
Sun City Veterans Association Color Guard, led by Bill Field, followed by the Sons of the American Revolution in period uniforms.
The real estate market on July 4 in Bluffton
BY LARRY STOLLER Contributor
On July 4, the real estate market in Bluffton was alive and well and hot. Maybe not as hot as the weather, but very hot, nevertheless. The demand for living in our lowcountry area is very strong. Lots of are folks moving here from the north and some from other parts of the country as well.
They see our active lifestyle, our yearround fun activities and the value of buying a home here. And while they are ready to buy, they know what they want and are willing to spend the time shopping around to find their perfect home.
And our real estate market is different than it was a couple of years ago. It is not crazy-crazy with multiple offers, above
price offers and escalating clauses. The buyers are out there, but they are taking their time before making offers.
Here’s what our market it looked like on July 4:
•There were 1,035 single-family homes for sale in the Bluffton-Hilton Head area, and the average number of days on market was 107.
•There were 324 condos and villas for sale on and off the Island, and the average number of days on market was 115.
•In Bluffton, 431 single family,
condo and villa homes were for sale, and the average number of days on market was 53.
•On July 4, 396 Bluffton homes were Under Contract (186 of these homes were in Sun City).
•One home in Bluffton was priced at $11,900,000 has been on the market for 777 days.
•In Sun City, there were 140 homes for sale, and the average number of days on market was 72.
•13 ½ % of all single-family homes
$419,999
model (1,402 sq ft) in great Lake Somerset location
Meticulously maintained Heather model (1,688 sq ft) features a large four-season room with preserve views
for sale in Bluffton were in Sun City.
•In Rose Hill Plantation, there were 14 homes for sale, and the average number of days on market was 71.
While inventory is up in Bluffton, demand is strong, homes are selling, but buyers are looking harder and it’s just taking a bit longer to sell than in past years. Throughout Bluffton, we are seeing more price reductions, and it appears that home buyers are looking for these reductions.
Whenever there is a price reduction, there is a spike in the number of views and saves on Zillow, Realtor.com and other online real estate directories.
Want to know what’s going on in your community? Contact your favorite real estate agent, they will have similar statistics, including homes sold activity.
Larry Stoller is a local Broker and Realtor with Real Estate FIVE of the Low Country. He sells homes throughout the Bluffton and Hilton Head area. Larry@RealEstateFive.com, www.RealEstateFive.com.
$475,000
Updated & Expanded Camden Shenandoah model (1,700 sq ft) shows like new in mint move-in condition
$869,000
Better-Than-New with more than $309K of incomparable improvements, a Luxury Home in Sun City
Larry Stoller
Sun City veterans lead patriotic event
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
On June 14, the Sun City Veterans Association honored Flag Day with an elaborate celebration at the Sun City Pavilion, attracting a sizable number of residents. Vice Commander Alan Richter led the event, which featured patriotic performances by the Sun City Singers, including renditions of the National Anthem, “God Bless the USA,” “This is My Country” and an audience-participative version of “It’s a Grand Old Flag.”
The event was marked by a poignant invocation from Lauren Evans, a retired Navy Commander and the chaplain of the association. Her prayer addressed the nation’s current divisions: “We ask your blessings upon our Nation during these troubling times. We continue to be divided along political, racial, even religious lines.” She concluded with a resonant message: “And as we see the flag flying high remind us that it stands for one nation, under God, indivisible with Liberty and Justice for all.”
Distinguished speakers included Sun City Veterans Association Commander Dale Dietz, Lee Royen from the Daughters of the American Revolution, and Jim Closson, President of the local chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, who delivered the keynote address.
The celebration also acknowledged the 249th anniversary of the US Army, established by the Second Continental Congress on June 14, 1775, underscoring the long-standing history of the armed forces. A ceremonial cake commemorating this milestone was presented at the
close of the event.
Interviewed following the event, Commander Dietz spoke about the Veterans Association’s extensive community involvement, noting its membership of 1,020 and its support for nineteen local organizations, including the Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps at both Bluffton and Ridgeland-Hardeeville High Schools, the Fisher House, and the Chaplains Fund at Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield, US Coast Guard Air Station, and Honor Flight Savannah. He also mentioned the enhanced Memorial and Veterans Day programs, which provide advertising opportunities that help fund the organization alongside member dues.
Additionally, Dietz highlighted the Veterans Speakers Bureau, launched in January 2020 at the request of Beaufort Country School Superintendent Frank Rodriguez. Despite initial challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has successfully resumed, with veterans providing educational talks at local schools, including Beaufort High School with F-4 Pilots and Military Nurses at Ridgeland-Hardeeville High School. These sessions offer students firsthand insights into military service, enhancing their understanding of its significance and impact.
This Flag Day event not only celebrated the flag but also demonstrated the community’s deep respect and support for veterans, reinforcing their vital role in promoting national unity and education.
With the cake commemorating the 249th US Army anniversary are (pictured left to right) Vietnam and Desert Storm Veteran Bill Fitzgerald, 98-year-old World War Two Veteran Sam Hollis, Korean War Veteran Dick
and
Members of the Sun City Veterans Association, Rudy Haumann Marching Unit, led by Mike Chomey.
Fordyce,
Sons of the American Revolution Global War on Terrorism Veteran Scott Brutton.
Live theatre flourishes in Sun City
BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor
How many times have we attended a play, enjoying the evening when the illusion created is that everything is perfect? In talking recently with Carolin Collins, president of the Sun City Theatre, there is a lot of work and many folks involved in creating this illusion. This is the whole other story behind the production.
Carolin, who is originally from Texas, and her husband, Jackie, have always been supportive of the theater, both in Sun City and while living in Atlanta. “It’s magic how it all comes together,” said Carolin.
The process from choosing a play to opening night takes about a year. Plays are chosen based on their appeal, theme and familiarity. The year’s schedule includes two musicals, two plays and a summer production in Pinckney Hall. Budgets are set for each production with costs ranging from $13,000 for plays to musicals
that cost $50,000. For musicals, musicians are hired and work under the able direction of Art Hansen. Included in the cost are hall rental, tickets, programs, costumes and scenery and rights.
Once a show is chosen, a producer and director must be recruited. Producers have a big job coordinating all aspects of a show. Chad Eastwood, who is from Massachusetts, started out with lighting and now is producing. Chad said, “The people in theater are the most loving, caring folks, and I enjoy working with them. With a background in company operations, producing came readily. It’s a matter of coordinating all aspects of the show.” Next, auditions are held, and rehearsals can begin.
Bonnie DeSimone taught high school drama. She retired to Sun City and in 2009 found herself directing. She has directed several plays including Boeing, Boeing, Steel Magnolias and Pajama Game and has taught directing work-
shops. Bonnie said, “I have a love of theater. It’s a lot of hard work and time spent, but I love the people, and the gratification of seeing the play open is more than worth it.”
Scenery, costumes and props are stored at an off-site facility. Volunteers with carpentry and engineering skills build and paint the scenery here where it is disassembled and moved to Magnolia Hall.
Magnolia Hall, where shows are held, has a sophisticated computerized LED lighting system and a state-of-the-art sound system. Special effects such as doorbells, hones and other sounds are computerized. Stage managers with headsets control curtains and lights.
Costume designers make sure that costumes are fitted, pressed and ready. Makeup and wig artists apply finishing touches. Technicians place microphones on actors and sound checks are done. Also, there are ads to be sold, programs to be printed, tickets sales and ushers to be
scheduled, all of whom contribute their part to a successful run.
All these jobs are done by volunteers, some of whom have had stage experience and others who have been “bitten by the acting bug” and are willing to learn through theatre workshops. “It takes a lot of folks, and we have the best here in Sun City,” said Carolin.
The postproduction party, hosted by the producer, is a thank you to all who helped. Aside from celebrating a successful run, everyone gets a chance to mingle and meet each other.
Started in 1999, as Act One, the Sun City Chartered Club has about 800 members, all who support the theater but don’t participate in productions. Remaining productions are: August 22-25 - The Savannah Sipping Society, September 22-29She Loves Me, and November 7-10 - Almost, Maine. For more information about Sun City Theater, see Sunsations or visit their website: www.suncitytheatre.org.
L to R: Bonnie DeSimone, Chad Eastwood, Carolin Collins
The Sun City Hilton Head
The Sun City Hilton Head
The real estate market in Sun City is experiencing a notable shift, with a significant increase in the number of listings com pared to the prepandemic era. Currently, there are 155 active listings, a 15% increase from last month. This surge is partly due to the inc lusion of approximately 15 spec homes under construction, which are now available for sale alongside existing resales. Historically, an increasing number of homes for sale typically drives prices down. However, Sun City has shown remarkable resilience. When comparing the median y ear-to-date home prices for 2023 to 2024, prices have leveled off, losing less than 1%. This minor decline suggests that while the market is adjusting, it remains relatively stable. One key indicator of this market pressure is the noticeable rise in price reductions. Currentl y, 41% of all active listings have experienced at least one price cut. This trend highlights growing competition among sellers, who are feeling t he pressure to make their properties more attractive to buyers. This market presents an opportunity for buyers to have a wider selection of homes to choose from and negotiate with sellers more favorably compared to a year ago. For sellers, it offers a chance to capitalize o n their properties while prices remain near historic highs. How Can I Assist You?: For homeowners considering selling their properties in the near future, I invite you to reach out for a 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 lan dscape.
The real estate market in Sun City is experiencing a notable shift, with a significant increase in the number of listings com pared to the prepandemic era. Currently, there are 155 active listings, a 15% increase from last month. This surge is partly due to the inc lusion of approximately 15 spec homes under construction, which are now available for sale alongside existing resales. Historically, an increasing number of homes for sale typically drives prices down. However, Sun City has shown remarkable resilience. When comparing the median y ear-to-date home prices for 2023 to 2024, prices have leveled off, losing less than 1%. This minor decline suggests that while the market is adjusting, it remains relatively stable. One key indicator of this market pressure is the noticeable rise in price reductions. Currentl y, 41% of all active listings have experienced at least one price cut. This trend highlights growing competition among sellers, who are feeling t he pressure to make their properties more attractive to buyers. This market presents an opportunity for buyers to have a wider selection of homes to choose from and negotiate with sellers more favorably compared to a year ago. For sellers, it offers a chance to capitalize o n their properties while prices remain near historic highs. H How Can I Assist You?: For homeowners considering selling their properties in the near future, I invite you to reach out for a 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 lan dscape.
Active Homes and Villas
BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor
Buying a car in a man’s world
Throughout our married life, I was always the one to purchase every automobile we’ve ever owned. I’ve been the car guru in the family. My husband sees a vehicle merely as a form of transportation. This has worked for us. In most households, either the husband picks out the new vehicle or they decide together as a couple.
What I repeatedly found, over the many years of entering dealerships, is that I would silently sit there, for up to thirty minutes, without even one unoccupied salesperson approaching me. Perhaps because I was a woman?
One day as I was leaving a showroom, the salesman finally yelled out asking if he could help me. I shouted back that I had cash in hand to purchase a new car, but apparently, they were too busy to assist me. So, I exited that dealership, went down the road and bought a brandnew sporty Dodge at the next dealership.
Years ago, my friend was shopping with her husband for a Cadillac. She asked the salesman how much the car cost? His response was that if she had to ask the price then she probably couldn’t afford the vehicle. Even after that rude remark, her husband still decided to purchase the Cadillac from that dealer. The salesman did, however, inform the wife that they (the men) would allow her to pick out the color. Lucky her!
Some years later, it became time for the same couple to purchase another new car. The wife still wanted another Cadil-
lac. Her husband insisted that he wanted a different model. He said he was going to pick out the car, as he’d always done throughout their married life. I guess buying a car is consistently considered a man’s domain.
So one day she was home alone when her phone rang. A gentlemen identified himself as the salesman from the local Ford dealership. He stated that her husband had been to the showroom and had selected a brand-new Ford. The salesman was calling to give her husband the final information he needed so they could complete the transaction. Of course, my friend was shocked as she wasn’t even aware that her husband was planning on purchasing a new car, much less without any input from her.
In her sweetest voice, she profusely apologized to the salesman informing him that her husband wasn’t home. He “was back at the FACILITY!” She further explained that her husband was allowed to come home every
other weekend for a visit; however, on this last visit, he had disappeared and the whole family had been out searching for him as he’s no longer licensed to drive. Along with his mental disorder, he was also diagnosed as delusional so, unfortunately, the family had to commit him. She felt terrible that the salesman had been duped by him, but her mate was in no position to purchase a car let alone drive one. The reaction from the salesman was priceless, as he wholeheartedly apologized to the wife for her terrible situation and bothering her.
My friend hung up the phone with a smile on her face but never told her husband that the salesman had called. To this day they are still “debating” over what model car to purchase. I personally think it’s her turn to choose, don’t you?
Moral of the story? Don’t mess with women!
Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.
Photo credit: © Allison Chenard
Olympic Athlete and Sailors for the Sea Ambassador
Unlocking your dream home: why a buyer’s agent is essential in today’s market
BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor
In today’s digital age, many people believe they can easily find a home online and skip hiring a buyer’s agent. With websites showcasing endless listings, it’s tempting to think that the home-buying process can be a straightforward DIY project. However, having a buyer’s agent is invaluable. For most Americans, buying a home is the most significant purchase of their lives. One misstep during the process could cost thousands of dollars, turning what should be a dream into a financial nightmare. Buying a home without a buy-
er’s agent is akin to representing yourself in a legal case. Just as most people hire a lawyer for their legal expertise, negotiation skills and knowledge of the law, hiring a buyer’s agent provides you with professional guidance, market insights and negotiation power. This ensures you make informed decisions and get the best possible outcome.
Sure, it’s easy to find available homes for sale on the internet, but a buyer’s agent does much more than send you a list of homes you can already find. A good agent can network and find homes that are not yet on the market, giving you access to more current and upcoming inventory. Why wouldn’t you want access to all options when choosing your next home?
Other jobs a buyer’s agent performs: Providing Local Market Insights: A buyer’s agent has a deep understanding
of the local market, including recent sales data, neighborhood trends and potential future developments. This information is crucial in making an informed decision.
Crafting Offers and Negotiating Terms: A buyer’s agent will help you craft a competitive offer, negotiate the terms of the purchase and negotiate repairs with the seller if issues are found during the inspection, ensuring you get the best deal possible.
Recommending Professionals: From closing attorneys and lenders to inspectors and contractors, a buyer’s agent has a network of trusted professionals to recommend, making the process smoother.
Managing the Process: A buyer’s agent keeps the process moving along by collecting paperwork, tracking deadlines and communicating with all parties involved. They become the conductor, en-
suring all facets of the process work harmoniously.
In essence, a buyer’s agent is your advocate and guide through the complex home-buying process. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring you find the home that’s right for you. So, before you decide to go it alone, consider the many benefits a buyer’s agent brings to the table. It could make all the difference in your home-buying journey.
Gary Smythe is a local Real Estate Agent with William Raveis Real Estate specializing in Bluffton and Hilton Head Island. Gary@GarySmythe.com , www.WilliamRaveis.com/GarySmythe
Staying Connected says goodbye to outgoing President, Hugh Armstrong
Hugh Armstrong, who has served Staying Connected from its very beginning, has retired from the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Hugh served on the Board as Vice President for seven years and assumed the Presidency in 2021. He was instrumental in the formation of our organization as an independent 501(C) (3) non-profit in 2014. His inciteful leadership is responsible for our success and growth these last 10 years.
“In the beginning we thought of ourselves as ‘neighbors helping neighbors’ with our volunteer’s providing assistance to those Sun City residents needing help with life’s challenges,” Hugh says. “But as we received feedback from our volunteers, we came to realize that our volunteers were getting more out of volunteering than they put into it. They were making a
positive impact on the lives of our members and our volunteers by bring the two together.”
Hugh’s departure has made way for a new board to take Staying Connected into the future with strong leadership. We all wish Hugh and his wife, Lana, the absolute best.
The current board has appointed Tom Hahn to assume the position of President. Tom moved to Sun City in 2017 and joined Staying Connected in 2018 as a Home Maintenance volunteer, eventually becoming Coordinator. Most recently, Tom has been a member of the Board of Directors. He brings a wealth of experience, serving in advisory and various board positions for a number of non-profit organizations over the years. His experience and leadership in the non-profit world ensure
that Staying Connected will continue to thrive.
Also joining the board recently is Jim Burnam. Jim has an extensive executive background in both large and small non-profits organizations. His commitment to serving others makes him a valuable addition to our Board of Directors.
If you are a Sun City resident and would like to enrich your life as well as the life of a neighbor in need, please consider being a volunteer for Staying Connected. We are actively recruiting Transportation volunteers. For more information visit our website, stayingconnectedschh.org, or call our Hub, 843-705-2259.
Gary Smythe
Hugh Armstrong
Buddy, my Boykin snake detective
BY GLENDA HARRIS Contributor
The Boykin Spaniel is equally loved as a family pet and a dependable sporting dog. They are funny little rascals, inspiring a variety of nicknames. There is, however, another side to our Boykin, Buddy. He is a fierce protector and knows what he is barking about, earning our respect and trust.
Outside on this particular morning in late October, Buddy showed zero interest in playing fetch, which was highly unusual. His attention, instead, was focused on my office window. Knowing he had recently been excited about a lizard on that window screen, I assumed this was the
case again. However, his preoccupation with the window persisted every time we went outside.
I laughed and gently scolded him to stop barking (which was very rare for Buddy). His persistent growling at the screen, however, got my attention. When I looked closely, I saw a dark linear shape between the screen and glass. Yep, it was a snake, and to my eyes, appeared to be a Copperhead.
All this time, Buddy was trying to warn me!
Quickly securing Buddy in the house, I went back to my office to be sure the window was closed and locked. I first posted my situation on our neighborhood group site for recommendations on who to call. I called a place I found on Google that could be here in about 30 minutes. I stayed in my office, not taking my eyes off this snake.
As I’m staring at the snake, my door-
bell rings. It’s my next-door neighbor and another man. My neighbor says, “Hi. We’re going to get that snake for you.” In their work attire and driving the company truck, they had diverted to my home when my neighbor’s wife alerted him about the snake in my window. The snake was actually a nonvenomous corn snake, which has similar markings.
Pets of the week
Flint Sonny
Flint often gets overlooked at the Palmetto Animal League Adoption Center because he only has one eye. But, if you take a moment to look beyond what he’s missing, you will find all that he has to offer.
Flint is an easy-going guy who walks great on a leash. He is 7 years old, loves affection, and gets along with most dogs. If you are looking for a steadfast companion who thinks you hung the moon, come meet Flint at PAL. He is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped. For more info, call PAL at 843-645-1725 or email Info@PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.
Sonny is a nice, 1-year-old boy. He is incredibly friendly and loves people and treats. Sonny can be a little bossy with the other cats, but he recently found a best friend in Daryl, another orange cat in his room at PAL. Sonny is neutered, up to date on vaccinations, and microchipped. For more info, call PAL at 843645-1725 or email Info@PalmettoAnimalLeague.org.
A Copperhead has a solid belly and a corn snake has a checkered belly. If you can’t see the underside, then assume the worst and act accordingly.
Ten minutes later, the snake was back in the woods and my “heroes” were on their way back to work, adamantly refusing any compensation other than my sincere thanks. Good neighbors are a treasure!
It took Buddy several days before he lost interest in that window. My takeaway? If you need an early warning system for snakes, lizards or other pests, get a Boykin Spaniel! Sure, it’s’ an expensive solution, but you’ll have a resident “snake detective,” a loving pet, a sporting dog and endless entertainment.
Y’all stay safe out there!
Glenda Harris is a freelance writer and editor, nature lover and aspiring novelist.
Glenda Harris
Model Railroads SIG President Doug Scott, pictured at outdoor display, praised Member Bert Pagano who has put tremendous effort into getting the outdoor setup started and to its present updated train operation.
Pictured and working on the inside Model Railroads SIG display are Past President Bill Kronimus, Current Vice President Clyde Ricard, and Member Elliot Kerman.
Sun City’s model railroads SIG electrifies train enthusiasts
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
Doug Scott, president of Sun City’s Model Railroads Special Interest Group (SIG) and an avid railroad enthusiast, skillfully blends his passion for trains with an extensive involvement in photography and writing about railroads. As president, Scott not only heads the Model Railroads SIG but also conducts Zoom presentations for train groups across the nation and has traveled extensively by rail throughout all fifty states and much of Canada, amassing a remarkable collection of approximately 500,000 digital train photos.
The Model Railroads SIG, part of the Woodworker and Model Makers Guild— commonly referred to as the woodshop— welcomes residents and their guests to
view their model train setups. These intricate displays featuring towns, buildings and railroad crossings come alive in a dedicated space at the woodshop down the road from Sun City’s Softball Stadium. The group, which numbers 45 members, hosts indoor and outdoor train displays. They meet regularly on the second Wednesday of each month and are keen on recruiting new members to help expand their exhibition offerings, attend interesting meetings or to support the group.
Scott, who moved to Sun City in March 2021 from Cape Cod, traces his fascination with trains back to his childhood model trains. His passion was fully ignited in 1977 following a cross-country train trip from Boston to San Francisco, which took three overnights each way. “I was hooked
on riding trains, meeting people and taking photos of the railroad,” Scott reflects on his enduring enthusiasm for rail travel.
The SIG operates year-round, opening its doors on Fridays from April through October between 10 a.m. and noon, and from November through March between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Special hours are available on holidays and long weekends to accommodate more visitors. During the Christmas season, holiday-themed decorations enhance the train setups.
Scott is not only deeply entrenched in the Model Railroads SIG but also holds memberships with national organizations.
He is a member of the National Railway Historical Society, a founding member of the Nauset Model Railroad Club established in 1989 and has been with the Mas-
sachusetts Bay Railroad Enthusiasts for over 40 years. He is also a member of the Sun City Photography Club. Additionally, the group contributes to the community by setting up a train display at the Bluffton Boys and Girls Club’s annual Christmas Party. Since its inception in 2002, the SIG has expanded its offerings, including the initiation of an outdoor train display in 2016, with further expansions of the outdoor display following as more enthusiasts join the group.
This vibrant community of model railroaders in Sun City not only celebrates the detailed craft of model train setups but also fosters a welcoming environment for train aficionados and residents, supporting wider community engagement through their displays.
$649,000
