Sun City Sun • June 17, 2025

“A sacred promise”

Keynote Speaker Captain Tracy R. Isaac

PHOTO BY WARD LITZENBERG

BY JOE TURINO Contributor

Navy captain honors fallen heroes at Sun City ceremony

Before a packed crowd in Magnolia Hall, the Sun City Veterans Association (SCVA) hosted its annual Memorial Day ceremony, this year honoring the theme “Women in the Military: A Legacy of 200 Years.” The event’s keynote speaker, Navy Captain Tracy R. Isaac, delivered a stirring message that reminded attendees Memorial Day is not just a date on the calendar—but a sacred promise to honor those who gave everything.

Captain Isaac, commanding officer of Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command Beaufort and director of the Naval Hospital in Beaufort, was introduced by SCVA Commander Dale Dietz sharing highlights of her distinguished 24-year Navy career. A native of New York City, Isaac was commissioned into the Navy Nurse Corps in 2001 and has served around the world, including deployments from Camp Lejeune and assignments at Naval hospitals in Okinawa and Jacksonville.

Among her military decorations, Isaac has received the Meritorious Service Medal four times, recognizing her leadership and dedication to care in combat and humanitarian operations.

But it was Isaac’s words, not her accolades, that left the greatest impression.

Before beginning her remarks, she invited applause to recognize the Bluffton Brass Quintet, the Sun City Singers, the SCVA Marching Unit and Color Guard, and the Bluffton High School Junior ROTC Color Guard. She opened her address asking all female veterans in the room to stand, drawing warm and sustained applause.

With quiet emotion, she thanked the SCVA for honoring Memorial Day “not just in word, but in action and presence.”

“This isn’t just a holiday,” she said. “It’s a sacred promise to never forget,” adding, “It’s a challenge to live with gratitude, to honor with action, and to remember with purpose.”

Isaac shared powerful reflections from her time as a Navy nurse caring for wounded Marines and sailors in Iraq and Afghanistan. “Some of them were just 19 or 20 years old,” she said. “Covered in dust from the battlefield. Many came through our doors broken—but brave.”

She emphasized that sacrifice isn’t only about death. “It’s about missed holidays, lost limbs, sleepless nights, and shattered peace of mind.”

“It is a day where we stop and say out

loud what must never be forgotten—that freedom is not free,” she added.

As she closed, she looked out at a sea of veterans and residents, saying of lost veterans, “We miss you. We remember you.

And we will never forget.” “May God bless our heroes,” she said. “And may God forever bless the United States of America.”

Sun City Hilton Head Residents Donate More Than $2,200 and Supplies to Jasper Animal Rescue Mission

Residents of the Greenbriar neighborhood in Sun City Hilton Head recently rallied together to support the Jasper Animal Rescue Mission (JARM), donating $2,220 in cash along with a generous supply of pet food, treats and other essential items.

Greenbriar resident Terri Mihokovich delivered the surprise donation in person, along with the collected goods. “They were completely overwhelmed with our generosity,” Mihokovich said. “They were out of wet dog food and had very little money left. They said our monetary donations alone would keep them running for months.”

As staff at the Ridgeland-based animal shelter

unpacked the boxes of supplies, they expressed immediate gratitude. “We so need this,” one team member said while sorting through the much-needed items.

JARM is the only open-admission animal shelter in Jasper County and relies heavily on community support to care for abandoned and surrendered pets. The donation from the Greenbriar neighborhood comes at a time when the shelter has been managing increased demand and limited resources.

For more information about Jasper Animal Rescue Mission or to make a donation, visit jasperanimalrescue.com.

Captain Tracy R. Isaac and SCVA Commander Dale Dietz placing a wreath at Sun City’s Veterans Monument.

PHOTO BY WARD LITZENBERG

Bluffton real estate: a balanced market or a shift on the horizon

BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor

If you’ve been paying attention to national headlines, you’ve probably seen that many housing markets across the country are beginning to tip in favor of buyers. Rising inventory levels, longer days on market, and modest price corrections are being reported in many metro areas. So, what does that mean for us here in Bluffton, and is now the right time to sell if you’ve been sitting on the fence?

Let’s start with the bigger picture. According to a recent report by Redfin, nearly 28% of homebuyers between February and April 2025 were looking to relocate to

a different metro area. The most popular destinations? Florida, Arizona, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. And where are people moving from? California, New York, Illinois, Washington, and Maryland continue to lead that list. Bluffton remains an attractive destination for those seeking a lower cost of living, warm climate, and lifestyle-driven communities. But even in a highly desirable area like ours, we’re not immune to broader trends—though local numbers paint a more nuanced picture.

April 2025 market snapshot –Bluffton, SC

• New Listings: 284 homes came on the market this April, down 5% from April 2024. However, year-to-date listings are up 14.7%, indicating more homeowners are testing the market in 2025.

• Closed Sales: Sales dipped slightly from 190 in April 2024 to 167 in April

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2025, a 12.1% decrease, though year-todate sales remain flat, up just 0.8%.

• Median Sale Price: Prices continue to hold strong. The median sale price rose to $559,900, up 6.1% compared to last April. Year-to-date, prices are up a modest 1%, which suggests continued buyer demand—even with more choices available.

• Inventory: This is the number to watch. April 2025 saw 847 active listings, a 37% increase from the same time last year. While this gives buyers more breathing room, we’re not quite in “buyer’s market” territory yet. Instead, we’re approaching a more balanced market—something we haven’t seen in several years.

First impressions matter more than ever

This isn’t the time to cut corners. Curb appeal, staging, and targeted digital exposure can make all the difference between a quick sale and a stale listing. Sellers should view their home as a product—and every detail counts when you’re competing with more listings on the market.

Bluffton is not one-size-fits-all It’s also important to remember that each neighborhood in Bluffton is its own market. While town-wide trends offer a helpful overview, communities like Sun City, Old Town, Hampton Hall, and The Landings each behave differently. Factors like price point, amenities, age of homes, and HOA rules can significantly influence demand, days on market, and buyer profiles.

If you’re thinking of buying or selling, it’s crucial to look beyond the headlines and focus on what’s happening in your specific community.

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As inventory rises, making your home stand out is critical. Buyers today have more options, so homes with deferred maintenance, poor presentation, or minimal marketing are often passed over quickly. In contrast, homes that are well-prepared, professionally photographed, and effectively marketed are the ones generating serious interest and offers.

Gary Smythe is a local real agent with William Raveis Real Estate focusing on the Hilton Head and Bluffton areas. Gary@GarySmythe. com , www.WilliamRaveis.com/ GarySmythe

GARY SMYTHE

The Sun City Hilton Head

The number of active listings has held steady at around 220 for several months, which is a 56% increase compared to this time last year. New listings are up 9% year-over-year, and closed sales have also risen by 6%. However, we’re seeing growing pressure on pricing. The rolling 12-month median sale price is down 1.8% compared to a year ago. The most striking figure is the nearly 8% drop in the median sale price when comparing May 2024 to May 2025. This notable decline is worth watching closely to see whether it signals the beginning of a longer-term trend. For buyers, this market presents an excellent opportunity with more inventory to choose from and increased negotiating power. For sellers, it’s still a great time to capitalize on the significant equity gains built during the pandemic years. Navigating today’s shifting landscape takes insight and preparation, and that’s where having a seasoned real estate professional makes all the difference. 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. Contact me today!

Sun City Real Estate May Market Snapshot

Active Homes and Villas

Life is short, buy the motorcycle…live your dreams!

BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor

Motorcycle quotes often highlight freedom, adventure, and the connection between rider and machine. Others emphasize the feeling of freedom that riding provides.

So, who rides a motorcycle? Well, it seems a lot of folks do, even famous ones such as Cher, Pink, Brad Pitt, and most famously, Steve McQueen.

The Sun City Roadrunners Motorcycle Club members share that passion. They first became a chartered club in 2003 with 36 members and the club is open to all Sun City residents, whether they currently ride or not. Now 117+ member strong, riders, both male and female ride all makes of bikes: two-wheel cruisers, trikes, and Can-Am Spyders.

Leaving from Lake Somerset, twice a week members set out on day rides, usually including lunch or breakfast in the warmer months. Extended trips are

planned each year; the Blue Ridge Parkway is a favorite, and other rides have taken them as far as Utah. The rides are carefully planned and safety is always paramount. Helmets must be worn and there is no drinking. Ride captains are positioned front and back and can communicate with riders if there is a problem.

Joe Albert, the president of the Roadrunners, has ridden off and on since high school. Originally from Massachusetts, Joe and his wife Sandy have lived in Sun City for 3 1/2 years. They have taken many rides together including one trip to Canada.

“Riding a motorcycle in a group reminds me of being a kid, when I would go ride bikes all day long with other kids.” sadid Joe, “It was great then, and it’s great now. Just now the bikes are louder!”

Sun City resident Bob Cree and his wife June have ridden from Atlantic to Pacific several times, taking their time and sightseeing along the way. Their longest trip was 40 days and nights. At the young age of 93, Bob says the rides are highlights and they both look forward to them.

Motorcycle riders are among the most generous folks too. Roadrunner members accompany Wreaths Across America

trucks each December. They meet in Orangeburg to escort the 18 wheelers carrying the wreaths to Beaufort National

Cemetery.

They support 14th Circuit Solicitor Duffie Stone’s Family Justice Center, that brings together victims’ services, law-enforcement and prosecutors to combat domestic violence. Funds have been raised for Staying Connected through donations at their events. Members participated in a 24-hour fire watch at OPFOB Operation Patriots, Forward Operating Base, commemorating the veterans who have lost their lives through suicide.

Roadrunners’ member Gary Hohman was active in Patriot Guard Riders, as a Ride Captain in Training. The group was founded in 2005 to shield families of fallen heroes from those that would disrupt the services of their loved ones.

Albert mentioned that there was a tour agency that offered Caribbean cruises where motorcycles could be transported. Upon arrival at an island, bikes were off loaded, and participants enjoyed a ride off the tourist path with stunning scenery.

Club members enjoy getting together for potlucks and holiday celebrations. The club meets on the second Monday at 5:30 pm at Riverbend Lodge. If you would like more information, contact Joe Albert at joehd942@gmail.com.

Sun City embraces 10th year of Change 4 Change

BY JOE TURINO Contributor

Thanks to the generosity and spirit of Sun City residents, the annual two-week campaign by Sun City’s Registered Community Group, Friends of “Back Pack Buddies II: The Box Program,” raised an impressive $78,307 this year. This marks a remarkable 10% increase from last year’s total of $70,872, according to Diane Brayden, the group’s communications coordinator.

The campaign, titled “Change 4 Change,” powered by enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers, saw participation from 56 Sun City neighborhoods, representing a total of 8,343 homes. Six new neighborhoods joined the fundraising effort for the very first time this year, Brayden noted.

This year’s campaign also celebrated a significant milestone—the 10th anniversary of their “Change 4 Change” initiative. Over the past decade, this remarkable community effort has raised over $365,000, directly funding food boxes and food vouchers for local schoolchildren and their families who qualify for assistance.

The Backpack Buddies Food Box Program, a nationally recognized program created to address the nutritional needs of chronically hungry school children, provides critical support for Beaufort and Jasper County Schools.

Sun City volunteers skillfully manage the coordination of assembling 25-pound food boxes, ensuring hundreds of schoolchildren and their families have nutritious meals during the upcoming school year.

ANDREA HOERNER

Roadrunner member Joe Murad enjoying a ride.

PHOTO BY DIANE BRAYDEN

Members of Sun City’s “Friends of Back Pack Buddies II: The Box Program,” presented a check for over $78,000 to Tim Sleep, president of Backpack Buddies Bluffton, following this year’s record-breaking fundraiser. Pictured from left to right are the Sun City’s Group Co-Chair Edie Autuori, Tim Sleep, Collection Specialist Susan Weismantle, and Membership Coordinator and Oak Terrace Neighborhood Captain Molly Kirchgraber.

Say yes to the dress

BY CHRIS ROOSA Contributor

I was watching Say Yes to the Dress one evening. The bride was trying on several beautiful wedding gowns. I found myself intrigued by the choice of styles she picked for this special occasion.

First in line was a low-cut strapless dress with most of her bosom hanging out above an empire waistline. Her second choice was a halter cut, with a gathered high waist to cover her baby bump. And her final selection was a frilly frock with layers of lace.

Quite honestly, I was mesmerized by the whole show. As I sat with my mouth gaping open, I was aghast by the amount of tattooing up and down the arms of the bride.

However, in truth, her arms were not the main attraction. They were quite subdued in contrast to the colorful array of

inked designs all over her chest traveling up to her neck.

One would think that on this special day the “distraction of color” would be covered with long sleeves along with a stylish high neckline. But I’m sure, from a grandmother’s perspective, that would be expecting too much.

I thought back to my own wedding with the clean lines of my tailored dress. The only accessories were my pearl earrings along with a white bouquet.

I often see pictures of high school girls from the 1960’s with lovely sweaters complimenting short skirts. Leotards, of a matching color, are topped off with a beautifully fashioned hairstyle reflective of the times. In our high school boys were forbidden to wear blue jeans. They would be expelled until they arrived in the proper attire of dress code slacks or khakis. It would be a rarity to ever see a girl in slacks walking down the halls.

At what point did young people find it necessary to display colorful designs on their bodies…. for life? What thought process went into stretching an earlobe into a massive hole that only a plastic surgeon could close? Or wear a nose ring, like a bull, and think it was fashionably beautiful? My own grand daughter had a fish hook through her bottom lip as a teen. I never saw it again after my son asked her if she caught many Perch with that hook?

I was once at the mall with my twentyyear-old son. He realized I was frozen in place while staring at a young “boy” who had a Mohawk hair style with long spikes sticking up several inches from his scalp. What caught my attention was the assortment of coloring. One spike was teal blue, another lime green, followed by bright yellow, highlighted by shocking pink and topped off with the final spike of purple. My son told me to close my mouth! The question I asked my boy is if

he thought that the father of that boy might have been a Macaw PARROT??? If you look at wedding photos or class pictures from sixty years ago and then compare them to today’s colorful, pierced teens it brings this question to mind. With today’s youth being the future generation of parents, what will children thirty years down the road resemble? Will we even recognize them as a graduating class or, better yet, a bride? Or will it be a stage full of unrecognizable, pierced, colorful breathing “beings” with an audience of pierced, faded tattooed aged parents in attendance?

If that television program shocked me, it’s too bad I won’t be around to see the offspring of this generation in thirty years. That ought to be a stunning finale!

Chris Roosa is a resident of Sun City Hilton Head.