Sun City Sun • April 15, 2025 by The Bluffton Sun

The SUN CITY SUN

BY RHONDA HARRIS Contributor

The Sun City Chorus and Orchestra’s Spring show “Hooray For Hollywood” celebrates movies, music and entertainment.

The mixed chorus of approximately 60 singers singing seven-part harmony has rehearsed for weeks. They have learned, not only tunes and pitches, but in many instances challenging words as well.

Chorus member Lauren O’Donnell shares “The lyrics of many of the numbers in this show are full of tongue twisters, and getting everyone to sing the words exactly the same way at the same time takes some practice,” she continued, “Most of our pieces have a lot of words to get out quickly and we want to be sure the audience can hear them all.”

(Try singing, “Ra-ma la-ma la-ma ka ding-it ty ding de dong,” and sing it really fast!) SCCO audiences often comment, “I could understand every word.”

Hooray for Hollywood

Back at the podium is Art Hansen, musical director, and Lorraine Hansen, assistant director, at the piano of the professional orchestra of 20 some pieces. In this program showcasing some of the classic movie musicals of the last 80 years, every number tells a story.

The first half of the show opens with tunes from “The Wizard Of Oz.” Its score and story line entertain with playful back and forth drama about the wicked witch, the Munchkins, the Wizard, and the merry trio skipping down the yellow brick road as they assert, “Hold onto your breath, hold onto your heart, hold on to your hope.”

Other numbers in the first half are the love ballad “Evergreen” from A Star is Born, followed by a lively medley of Richard Rogers Broadway and film hits, including a gusty rendition of South Pacific’s “There Is Nothing Like a Dame,” among others. The Orchestra is highlighted alone in “Chillers and Thriller.”

In the second half of the program the

singers and instrumentalists feature more modern film musicals with fun rock n’roll numbers from “Grease,” including “We Go Together,” “Greased Lightin’,” “Beauty School Dropout,” and others. “All Night Long,” “Thriller,” and “Footloose,” from the ‘80’s are also performed, as well as popular numbers from animated Disney films that tell their stories with captivating Latin rhythms.

Closing the program are selections from “Sunset Boulevard” and “The Lion King.” The Orchestra will entertain with “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

As always, Hansen’s informal chats with the audience between numbers both inform and entertain. The public is encouraged to come join the fun for this two-hour program, appropriate for all ages.

Magnolia Hall stage on May 8, 9, 10, 7:00 p.m., and May 11, 2:30 p.m. Tickets, $28, are available by calling 843-941-9729, or by emailing suncitytix@gmail.com, or by visiting the Magnolia Hall Box Office on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 9:0011:00 a.m.

Nobody can do everything, but

BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor

April is National Volunteer Month. What began in Canada during World War II to thank people for supporting the war effort by volunteering their time has grown over the decades. Today, it celebrates those who do everything from aiding the less fortunate to preserving the environment. Here in Sun City, hundreds of residents volunteer to fill board positions, serve on committees, act as neighborhood representatives and participate in more than 100 clubs and groups — many of which have their own volunteer outreach activities.

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Members of the GFWC Woman’s League of the Lowcountry devote themselves to making positive impacts for children and youth, animal shelters, food pantries and shelters. Sun City’s own Staying Connected has 277 volunteers providing transportation, visits and help with simple chores so residents can remain in their homes. Sun City Women Who Care — a group with nearly 200 members — meets quarterly to donate funds to local charities.

Of particular note is the number of Sun City residents working directly with charities and organizations throughout the Lowcountry.

Animal welfare groups such as Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM), Lovable Paws and Rascals Rescue attract many local volunteers.

Linda Hackett volunteers with JARM in Ridgeland. On her weekly trips, Hackett’s SUV is loaded with donated food, blankets and towels for the animals. She says she’s overwhelmed by Sun City’s generosity.

and Second Helpings.

“It restores my faith in human beings and how they respond to a need,” said Hackett.

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Residents with therapy dogs also give their time. Liz Darby is a dedicated volunteer. She and Sabrina, her certified therapy dog, regularly visit area clubs, schools and nursing homes. Sabrina was rescued from Maranatha Farms and has completed Canine Good Citizen training. She is certified by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs.

When schoolchildren read to Sabrina, they gain confidence in their reading skills.

“I like people, I love kids, and spending time with Sabrina is great,” said Darby. If Sabrina could speak, Darby says she’d add:

“I like going places with my mom and getting extra love.”

Other volunteer groups, such as Backpack Buddies, Change for Change and Fill the Bus, support children through food and school supply donations. Additionally, many residents give their time volunteering within schools as tutors.

Backpack Buddies offers programs like weekly bags of food, monthly boxes, supplemental produce distributions and a summer program at the Bluffton Farmers Market. The initiative now serves all Bluffton schools — six elementary, three middle and two high schools — and has expanded into Jasper County, serving schools in Hardeeville. The program reaches approximately 1,200 children, all of whom are identified by school staff as at risk of chronic hunger.

Molly Kirchgraber, a volunteer with Backpack Buddies, said:

“Addressing chronic hunger in our local schools is the mission of Backpack Buddies of Bluffton and Hardeeville.

The children are our future. Speaking for all our Sun City volunteers, we feel blessed to play a small part in brightening young lives today with nutritious meals and snacks — and hope to secure their success in school and beyond.”

Many Sun City residents are drawn to volunteer with groups addressing health, housing or food insecurity. These include Beaufort Jasper Volunteers in Medicine (BJVIM), Hospice, Bluffton Self Help, Family Promise, Habitat for Humanity

Second Helpings provides food for more than 13,000 people each week with the help of 468 volunteers. In addition to food rescue from 45 donors and 54 agency partners, the group runs a summer program where departing vacationers can drop off leftover food at Grayco Hardware on Hilton Head Island. Every Thursday at the Palmetto Breeze hub station in Bluffton, groceries are distributed to members of the workforce who use the bus service to get to work.

“There’s not a more basic human need than food, and it feels good every single time we get in the truck, collect great food that was headed for landfills, and get it quickly into the homes of neighbors who need it,” said volunteer Kevin McManus.

As writer and artist Kahlil Gibran wrote in The Prophet:

“You give but little when you give of your possessions.

It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.”

In this time of ongoing need in the Lowcountry, consider giving a small part of your time to help our neighbors.

ANDREA HOERNER

The Sun City Hilton Head

Monthly Market Report

April 2025 | SECTION B | Volume 14 I Issue 4

The March 2025 numbers are in, and they reveal a shifting landscape here in Sun City Hilton Head. As someone who has speciali zed in this community for over two decades, I’ve seen the market evolve through many cycles and today’s environment is no exception. New listings rose 15% year-over-year, with 99 homes hitting the market this March compared to 86 in March 2024. Closed sales also saw a modest 7% increase, signaling co ntinued buyer interest. The median sales price, based on a 12-month rolling average, held steady at $515,000 demonstrating a resilient price point even as inventory levels surged by 74%. With rising inventory and macroeconomic uncertainty including tariffs and fluctuating interest rates more complex decisions. As Melissa Cohn, a mortgage expert with William Raveis Mortgage, recently noted: “The Federal Reserve will now be caught in the crossfires, dealing with a weakening economy and higher prices... that means rates may have to remain higher longer.”

In a market like this, experience matters. Whether you're looking to buy or sell in Sun City, having a professional who understands the nuances of this unique community and how broader economic trends influence local real estate can make all the difference.

How Can I Assist You?

If you’re considering selling your home, I invite you to take advantage of a FREE comprehensive market analysis and in-depth market review. Together, we’ll develop a strategy to ensure your home stands out and achieves the best possible value in this evolving market.

Tariffs, rates, and real estate

BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor

The real estate market is always evolving, but recent news around tariffs has added another twist to the outlook for mortgage rates— and buyers and sellers in the Bluffton and Hilton Head area should take note.

On April 2, President Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on imports from several countries. While these measures aim to protect domestic industries, the ripple effect is already being felt across the economy—including the housing sector.

As Melissa Cohn, mortgage expert with William Raveis Mortgage, explains: “The stock market fell off a cliff and bond yields tumbled below 4% for the first time since last October. Mortgage rates fell as well. These new tariffs have quickly soured consumer sentiment and greatly increased the risk that the economy will fall into a recession... The Federal Reserve will now be caught in the crossfires, dealing with a weakening economy and higher prices. That means rates may have to remain higher longer.”

In short, we’re entering a time of uncertainty. Mortgage rates initially dipped following the announcement, but longer-term effects—especially if inflation picks up—could keep rates elevated or even push them higher.

For buyers, the message is clear: if you find a home you love and a rate that fits your budget, don’t wait. Adjustable-rate options and post-closing rate modifications can offer flexibility if rates shift. And while refinances are always a possibility down the line, missing out on the right home in this competitive market can be far more costly.

Sellers should also stay aware. While interest rate movement impacts buyer activity, well-priced and well-presented homes in desirable communities are still in demand.

The current situation is fluid and can change quickly—especially if there are additional policy changes or shifts in the Federal Reserve’s response. Staying informed and ready to act is the best way to navigate today’s real estate landscape.

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

GARY SMYTHE

Behind the mic: Doug Wright’s journey to SCTV

BY JOE TURINO Contributor

For the past seven years, Doug Wright has not only been a familiar face on Sun City TV (SCTV) but also a beacon of inspiration, showing us that it is never too late to chase a new dream. Known for bringing sports stories to life for the Sun City community, there is much more to this engaging sports anchor than meets the eye. Recently, he agreed to an interview that delved into his intriguing background and what led him into the world of broadcasting at SCTV.

Wright’s journey to volunteer at SCTV, Sun City’s own television broadcast, began back in 2018, two years after moving to Sun City.

From a suburb of Detroit, Michigan, Wright said his early life was marked by the loss of his father when he was just eight, a pivotal moment that deeply influenced his path. “I spent a lot of time playing baseball, basketball, football, whatever sport was in the season. And that’s how I got interested in sports,” Wright explained.

Wright shared insights from his naval service during the Vietnam War, his years playing sports, and his academic pursuits which included a stint at Cornell as a mechanical engineering major where he played football and baseball, and later law studies at the University of Michigan and Georgetown finishing up his Juris Doctor-

ate degree in law.

He shared that in his first year at Cornell, he played third base on the freshman team and became friends with the shortstop named Ken Dryden, who later became a legend in hockey describing him as a “great goalie” and “great guy.”

Dryden, a celebrated Canadian goaltender, is best known for his career with the Montreal Canadiens, where he won six Stanley Cups.

After serving in Vietnam, he was assigned to an Officer Candidate School in Maryland. He described that Navy assignment as “the best three years of my life.” He coached football, lacrosse, and did a little writing for the Navy Times “mostly on our lacrosse program. And that’s how I got started with sports writing.”

Before volunteering at SCTV, Wright had a distinguished 40-year career as a tax merger acquisition lawyer in Atlanta. “ His shift from law to media was driven by a desire for a change after retiring “cold turkey” in 2015. When I came down here, I read a book. And one of the things it said was to get outside your comfort zone which it [SCTV] certainly was,” he said.

He stumbled upon the TV studio while exploring Sun City, and driven by curiosity and a dash of spontaneity, he decided to give it a shot. He stepped inside to get more information and signed up as a volunteer. After receiving support and train-

ing, he eventually took over as the sports anchor when his predecessor retired.

“It’s fun. I meet a lot of people. Interesting people with or without sports backgrounds. We have extraordinary citizens here and they have great backstories,” Wright shared enthusiastically.

Wright’s life is as rich and varied outside the studio as it is on air. An active member of Sun City’s Veterans Association, the Karaoke and the Croquet Clubs, Wright has not only participated but also shaped the social landscape of Sun City,

enhancing its vibrancy and cohesion. “You just do what you want here in Sun City. Yes, get outside your comfort zone,” he mused.

Best known for his own monthly show Sports Done “Wright,” which he describes as a sports magazine that offers more indepth coverage of local sports stories in Sun City. He also reported sports on SCTV’s weekly news broadcast.

Doug Wright’s story is a compelling reminder of the rich tapestry of experiences that individuals bring to their roles in Sun City. His journey from his law career in Atlanta to the broadcasting studio of SCTV highlights a life lived fully, with each chapter as vibrant and engaging as the sports stories he has shared with his audience each week.

It is clear he has thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at SCTV very much. “Like I said, it’s the people that make it interesting and enjoyable. I interview really interesting people, people that accomplished a lot in sports.”

His contributions to Sun City and SCTV have been incredibly significant, adding sports news in a new and interesting way for those Sun City residents who love all the sports, and much more the community has to offer.

Note: Very recently following this interview, at age 78, Wright turned in his microphone and retired from SCTV.

The Sun City Book Exchange Club donates

The Sun City Book Exchange Club donated $3,000 to three non-profit organizations whose goals are to promote early childhood literacy.

“We get donations from members each year,” said Mary Jane Rubenstein, club treasurer, “and our membership agreed to send $1,000 each to these groups.”

Checks of $1,000 went to Born To Read (borntoread.org) in Beaufort County , the local chapter of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (www.gfwc.org/arts-andculture/), which sponsors Book Nooks in Piggly Wiggly grocery stores, Jasper

County and Neighborhood Outreach Connection (noc-sc.org) of Hilton Head

The Sun City Book Exchange is located adjacent to the Palmetto Commons Lifestyle Office in the community association administration building. The Book Exchange relies on used books donated by Sun City residents. They donate fiction and non-fiction, large print books, DVD movies and Audio books and puzzles and magazines. It is open to all residents, weeks days 10 a.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

$3,000

Doug Wright

BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor

I’ve always considered myself an easy keeper. I never expected extravagant gifts nor high-end restaurants - the local diner was fine with me. Like many young couples, we struggled in our early years of marriage just to put food on the table and raise three children. I sewed a lot of my cloths along with dresses for our two little girls. I cut every head of hair in our household; I even used coupons and shopped sales. But one Christmas, when asked what I wanted, I gathered the courage to ask for a fur coat. They were all the rage, and it was the only gift I wanted. Christmas morning the kids were all excited that Santa had brought them all the fun-filled toys they requested while sitting on his lap earlier that month. Their eyes lit up as they opened one gift after another. It was heart-warming to see the joy reflected on their faces in the glow of Christmas tree lights. Then it was my turn. Before me was a

“Designer” fur

large box beautifully wrapped with a golden bow topper. I slowly peeled back the wrapping along with the layers of tissue paper and pulled out a gorgeous fur/ leather jacket. Beautiful white and rust in color with a leather collar and cuff trim. So stunning with my auburn hair. A perfect, flattering fit and extremely stylish.

On my next shopping spree, I found a white fur pill box hat to compliment my luxurious Christmas present. A perfect duo. I could hardly wait for the next opportunity to wear them together.

Soon I ventured out to the mall, looking “smashing” while draped in my new fuzzy attire. However, as I walked around, from store to store, I noticed there was this haze of floating fur following me down the isles. Fur, fur everywhere! Hanging on my eye lashes, sticking to my lipstick, somewhat glued to my cheeks while I was spitting it out of my mouth. Every time I moved, my dream jacket shed all over me. In the weeks to come, I found I shed no matter where I went. I then noticed that

my dream jacket was getting bald spots; less fur in the under arms, sparse in the areas where my shoulder purse rubbed against it, a balding line across my chest. I brought this to my husband’s atten tion as I felt a need to return this fine fur to the women’s store where it was purchased. I asked for the bill of sale where upon he hands me a receipt from KMART! Yes, KMART…fur store??? While returning this love ly jacket I found out the “fur” was rabbit! My “designer” fur jacket was from a rabbit…from the local KMART “fur section.” I love bunnies! Easter bun nies!!!

As I said earlier, I was not a demanding wife, a rather easy keeper, but seriously… an Easter bunny fur coat from Kmart!

Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.