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Behind the scenes at SCTV
BY ANDREA HOERNER Contributor
In its mission to showcase the Sun City lifestyle, Sun City Television (SCTV) has evolved from rabbit ears to virtual viewing as technology has improved.
A dedicated group of 29 volunteers, most with no prior experience in television, are trained to produce high-quality work and keep the community’s television station running smoothly. SCTV has grown over the years into a state-of-the-art operation, providing 24-hour programming from its studio in Pinckney Hall.
In 2018, SCTV transitioned from focusing solely on news to offering a full menu of programs. Equipment was updated when Pinckney Hall was renovated about four years ago. Funding for its annual budget is provided by the Community Association.
In 2022, SCTV began 24-hour programming on its assigned cable networks, including a weekly news show and five monthly programs.
“Extra” airs extends coverage of SCTV news stories; “In Our Neighborhoods” highlights neighborhood events; “Meet the Author” features literary selections and their
creators; “Spotlight on Sports” includes interviews and action from local athletes; and “Community Connections” provides in-depth coverage of issues in and around Sun City.
To illustrate what is involved in a broadcast, the SCTV News crew includes anchor Norma Taylor, two cameras, a teleprompter, an audio engineer, a technical director and an editor.
“News from people you know about people you know,” said George Rosehart, executive producer and one of the volunteers with prior experience in broadcast technology.
Programming has continued to expand with new ways of reaching residents. “We are now requested to cover key Sun City events, such as the opening of Sun City West amenities, Neighborhood Representative Council special topics and Securitas scam presentations,” said Georgia Lash, promotions director.
Coverage continues to evolve. The purchase and use of a drone was recently approved by the Sun City Board of Directors and will be used to cover community events. All operators will be trained and certified, as required by
the Federal Aviation Administration.
Viewership has also grown, with a significant number of viewers using SCTV as a resource before moving to the community. A newer program, “Unboxing Sun City,” with Nennie and Stacey Whitt, takes a humorous look at issues that arise for new residents, ranging from gate passes to traffic rules.
“SCTV was essential in helping us decide to move to Sun City. It was the only place we could truly see what the lifestyle was like and get a real feel for daily life inside the community,” said Nennie and Stacey Whitt.
The most convenient way to view SCTV programming is on YouTube at www.youtube.com/sctvstation. Viewership includes out of town friends and family that like to see what their parents and grandparents are up to. Programming is also available on Spectrum channel 1301 and Sparklight (formerly Hargray) channel 238.
A QR code included in each monthly Sunsations provides information on how to access programming.
For more information or to inquire about joining the team, contact suncitytvhh@gmail.com.
Above: Georgia Lash consults with Norma Taylor at the anchor desk; Top Left: Mike Leisure at the editor’s desk Left: SCTV control room
Five mistakes Bluffton home sellers are making
BY GARY SMYTHE Contributor
If you’ve been following national real estate headlines, you’ve probably seen a lot of mixed messages— some say the market is still strong, others say it’s slowing down. The truth is, here in Bluffton and Hilton Head, we’re in a shifting market, and that’s where many sellers are getting tripped up.
Over the past several months, I’ve seen a clear pattern. Homes that are positioned correctly are still selling—and often with strong terms. But others are sitting, reducing, and ultimately selling for less than they should have.
Here are the five biggest mistakes Bluffton home sellers are making right now— and how to avoid them.
1. Overpricing based on last year’s market
This is by far the most common mistake. Many sellers are still pricing their homes based on what their neighbor got in 2022 or early 2023. The problem? That
was a very different market. Buyer demand has cooled, interest rates are higher, and buyers are far more selective. Today, pricing a home even 5–10% too high can cause it to sit. And once a home sits, it becomes stale, leading to price reductions and, ultimately, a lower final sale price.
The takeaway: The first price is the most important price. You don’t want to “test the market,” you want to hit it correctly from day one.
2. Ignoring condition and presentation
A few years ago, buyers were willing to overlook a lot. That’s no longer the case. Today’s buyers expect homes to be clean, updated, and move-in ready—or they expect a discount. Things like worn flooring, outdated fixtures, or deferred maintenance are getting called out quickly. In Bluffton especially, buyers are comparing your home to newer construction and renovated properties.
The takeaway: Small improvements— fresh paint, updated lighting, minor repairs—can make a significant difference in both showing activity and final price.
3. Underestimating buyer negotiation power
We are no longer in a market where sellers can dictate every term. Buyers are negotiating again, on price, closing costs,
repairs, and even interest rate buy-downs. Sellers who refuse to be flexible often find themselves sitting on the market longer than expected. The strongest sellers today aren’t the ones holding firm on everything—they’re the ones who understand where to give a little to keep a deal together.
The takeaway: A small concession upfront can prevent a larger price reduction later.
4. Not addressing big-ticket items (roof, hvac, insurance concerns)
This is a big one in our area. Buyers today are paying close attention to major systems—especially roofs and HVAC units. Insurance costs and insurability are becoming a bigger factor in purchasing decisions, particularly in coastal markets like ours. If a roof is nearing the end of its life or an HVAC system is outdated, buyers will either walk away or expect a significant credit.
The takeaway: If you know there’s an issue, address it early, or price accordingly. Surprises during inspection almost always cost you more.
5. Not having a clear pricing and marketing strategy
In today’s market, having a thoughtful plan from the start makes all the difference. Some homes come on the market without a clear strategy—whether it’s
pricing, presentation, or how the home is being marketed to buyers. When that happens, it can lead to fewer showings, longer time on market, and unnecessary price reductions. The homes that are selling successfully right now are the ones that are well-positioned from day one—with the right price, strong presentation, and a plan to reach serious buyers.
The takeaway: Before listing, make sure you and your agent are aligned on a clear, data-driven strategy to give your home the best possible start.
The Bluffton market is still active, but it’s no longer forgiving. The good news? Sellers who adapt to today’s conditions are still achieving strong results. It just requires a more strategic approach than it did a few years ago. If you’re thinking about selling, the key is simple: price it right, prepare it well, and position it to stand out.
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
Sun City Hilton Head opens $50 million amenity campus
BY SASHA SWEENEY Editor
A $50 million amenity campus featuring indoor sports facilities, event space and outdoor recreation areas has opened at Sun City Hilton Head, expanding lifestyle offerings for residents age 55 and older.
Developer Del Webb, a brand of PulteGroup, marked the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony March 18. The project, which has been in development since 2021, adds two new facilities totaling nearly 60,000 square feet, according to the company.
The larger facility, called the Breakwater Fitness Collective, spans more than
40,000 square feet and centers on an indoor sports complex. It includes courts for pickleball, tennis, basketball and volleyball. An upper level overlooks the courts and provides space for cardio and strength equipment, along with a walking and running track.
The fitness center also includes an indoor lap pool, group exercise studios and dedicated areas for weight training, as well as locker rooms and spa treatment spaces, according to the developer.
Adjacent to the sports complex is Spanish Moss Hall, an approximately 18,000-square-foot clubhouse designed for social events, performances and community gatherings. The building includes a
ballroom with capacity for up to 500 people, a stage, lounge areas and a catering kitchen.
Large sliding doors connect the clubhouse to an outdoor area that includes a pool with beach-style entry, a swim-up bar, cabanas and fire pits. Additional amenities include an indoor game room with space for billiards and table games, as well as meeting rooms for clubs and resident groups. An outdoor amphitheater is expected to host concerts, performances and movie nights.
“In beginning this project during 2021, the combined vision with our homeowners was to create a first-in-class amenity for social gatherings, fitness challenges,
leisure activities and learning opportunities,” said Matt Raines, president of PulteGroup’s Coastal Carolina Division.
“There’s no question we exceeded our expectations with this epic grand showcase, second-to-none in all Del Webb communities across the country.”
Existing amenities in the community include golf courses, multiple clubhouses, swimming pools, walking trails and recreational facilities. Company officials said the new campus is part of a broader effort to expand options for fitness, social engagement and organized activities.
GARY SMYTHE
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
With its milestone 20th anniversary season in full swing, and another crowd-pleasing event ahead, the Sun City Women’s Tennis Organization (WTO) continues to serve up far more than tennis. From spirited competition to meaningful fundraising, the group is building excitement across the Sun City community, with its upcoming “Match Point” event. As a special interest group of the Sun City Tennis Association (SCTA), WTO promotes the fellowship of women across all levels of play while raising funds for local charities and community projects through its events and programs. That mission rooted in connection, inclusion, and giving back has never been more visible than it is this 20th anniversary year. The centerpiece of the season was the 20th Anniversary Celebration held March 21, a full day that captured the spirit of
WTO marks 20 years
WTO. More than 60 players took part in tennis activities led by Tennis Pro Gavin Cox and his team, followed by a well-attended luncheon featuring a slideshow of WTO’s history and a memorial book honoring members who made lasting contributions.
“We really had a great time,” said Angela Bossu Wolfe, Chair of the WTO. Adding, “Both men and women participated and we really wanted to thank SCTA for their support throughout all these years.” She added that turnout exceeded expectations, with more than 100 attending the luncheon, creating what she described as “a very good number for us.” She also noted the day had a special feel, calling it “more of a celebratory type thing” that brought members together.
A highlight of the day was the recognition of original steering committee members Anne Clemmitt, Becky Nesta, and Cindy Vander Berg, whose early leadership helped shape WTO.
The next opportunity to join in comes with “Match Point” on April 25, a fastpaced highlight of the SCTA Mix & Match Tournament. Open to both women and men tennis players, the event features a fun one-point format that’s quick, social, and draws enthusiastic crowds—making it one of the most entertaining moments of the weekend.
WTO’s strong start to 2026 has already made an impact. The 12th annual Food for Love raised $1,165 along with a van full of donations for Bluffton Self Help. March’s
Wine and Cheese event brought 100 residents together at the South Courts, highlighted by exhibition matches from Pennsylvania’sSt. Francis University.
Angela noted that a cornerstone of WTO’s giving is its Memorial Scholarship program, which supports local high school tennis players from May River, Bluffton, John Paul II, and Hilton Head Christian Academy. Scholarships range from $150 to $500 and can be used for lessons, equipment, or tournament play— helping young athletes continue to grow in the game.
Looking ahead, WTO continues its tradition of purpose-driven events with “Tennis in the Pink” on September 26, supporting breast cancer awareness and honoring survivors.
Twenty years in, WTO continues to bring people together—through tennis, friendship, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
Fashion show fills Pinckney Hall
BY JOE TURINO Contributor
A packed ballroom, an enthusiastic crowd, and a runway full of creativity made PEO Chapter AQ’s Secondhand Rose Fashion Show and Luncheon a clear success on April 4th at Sun City’s Pinckney Hall.
Nearly 260 attendees filled the room for an afternoon blending fashion, friendship, and fundraising, as local Bluffton Chapter AQ—part of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO), an international women’s organization founded in 1869 with more than 5,500 chapters and nearly a quarter-million members across the United States and Canada, dedicated to helping women achieve their educational goals through scholarships, grants, awards, and loans—hosted its signature event in support of a mission that extends far beyond the ballroom.
“It really ends up being a lot of fun,” said Brenda Sommerfeld, Ways and Means Committee Chair and past president of Chapter AQ. “The audience just loves the show,” she added. The annual event is the chapter’s primary fundraiser, with proceeds supporting scholarships, grants, and loans that help women pursue education.
Bluffton’s Chapter AQ includes many Sun City residents and is one of several PEO chapters serving Beaufort County, helping connect local women to educational opportunities.
That support includes assisting applicants through the process, particularly women returning to school, many pursuing nursing, as well as students receiving scholarships to continue their education.
For Sommerfeld, the mission carries personal meaning. While working full-time, she attended college parttime for more than a decade before earning her degree, a journey that gave her a deep appreciation for the challenges many women face in continuing their education.
So, when she was asked to join PEO in 2017, she immediately connected with its mission, recognizing how it supports women facing the same sacrifices she once made to achieve her own education.
On the runway, members known as “sisters” modeled outfits they selected from local thrift shops, each paired with a lighthearted narrative that added humor and personality to the show, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
Chapter President Trish Lanier introduced and narrated the fashion models plus spoke of the PEO’s mission, thanked all in attendance for their support, and thanked the many volunteers in addition to the models that make the annual event a continued success.
With strong community support and a full house once again, the event reflected both the energy of the audience and the Sun City spirit that helped make the day a success.
PHOTO BY BILL MCKINNERY
PEO’s fashion models line up on the stage at Fashion Show and Luncheon event.
Maureen Dean, left, and Madeline Cambo pictured with PEO banner at Fashion Show.
Staying Connected honors Tom Hahn, names successor
BY LUCIA CROSBY Contributor
It is with deep sadness that Staying Connected announces the sudden passing of our President, Tom Hahn. Tom began his journey with the organization in 2018 as a Home Maintenance volunteer. His commitment and passion led him to the role of Home Maintenance Coordinator, where he fully immersed himself in the Staying Connected culture and mission. In 2024, Tom was named Board President. As President, Tom was instrumental in identifying new ways to broaden our services, not just for members but for the entire Sun City community. Among his many contributions, he was directly responsible for recognizing the need and potential for our newest offering, The Lending Closet. He believed that volunteers are the heart of our organization, frequently
recognizing their contributions in his monthly Volunteer Vibes Newsletter.
Tom leaves behind a legacy characterized by his great smile and genuine passion for service. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege to work alongside him and by the many lives he touched through his leadership and dedication.
Michael Cline, Staying Connected’s former board Vice President, will succeed Hahn as President. Cline, a Midwest native, spent 30 years as a financial executive in Kansas City before retiring with his wife to the Low Country in 2023. He is no stranger to the non-profit world, having served on the boards of four service organizations.
Upon arriving in Sun City, he immediately sought ways to serve the community, joining the Community Association’s Finance Committee, where he currently
serves as Vice Chair, as well as Staying Connected as a volunteer.
“I discovered Staying Connected at Sun City’s annual Club Fair a few months after we arrived and fell in love with the organization and what they were doing,” Cline says, “Through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers who have a heart for service, Staying Connected plays a huge role in helping members maintain and improve their quality of life.”
Cline’s volunteer profile caught the eye of Tom Hahn, and in June 2025, Cline was asked to join Staying Connected’s Board. He assumed the Vice President role in early 2026.
Asked about how he sees the road ahead for Staying Connected from his new vantage point as President, Cline responds, “The fundamental strength of our organization lies in our volunteers, and we will be constantly looking for new
ways to ensure they are engaged, fulfilled and appreciated. We will also need more of them, as we know that Sun City’s growth will continue and members’ needs will grow alongside it. With that in mind, we will be seeking to ensure that we not only continue to deliver our existing services compassionately and effectively but identifying other offerings that address key needs that we know are out there.”
In closing, Cline offers, “This is an exciting time for Staying Connected, everyone who plays a role in its success and the wonderful members we serve. We look forward to what the future holds as we honor Tom’s legacy and continue to enrich people’s lives.”
Lucia Crosby is the community relations director of Staying Connected SCHH, Inc.
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