Flexibility—and a healthy respect for Arizona heat—set the tone for a memorable evening as Unit 28 gathered to send off its snowbirds. What was destined to be a charming street party pivoted gracefully (and gratefully) into an air-conditioned garage and home at Bob and Joyce Wainscott’s on South Skyline Drive when the weather decided to audition for mid-July.
Forty-seven residents turned out for the festivities, enjoying a potluck that ranged from “family favorite” to “what is in this and can I get the recipe?” Conversation flowed easily, as did the wine, while guests took full advantage of the evening’s entertainment—most notably the “sing-along with the band” portion, where confidence often outpaced pitch, but never enthusiasm.
For the more daring, hula hoops made an appearance. Results varied. Some rediscovered long-lost talents; others confirmed those talents were, in fact, best left in the past. Either way, it was a crowd favorite.
A special drawing honored our departing snowbirds, with Janine Sullivan, Kris Rudin and Sue Orth each receiving gifts courtesy of the Unit Social Committee—sending them off with a little something extra besides our collective envy of cooler summer temperatures.
SaddleBrooke musicians Steve Skeen, Cal Salisbury, and Doug Dogniere kept the evening lively with an eclectic mix of tunes, while Marilyn Ginther elevated the performance with harmonies—and a yodel that ensured no one within a three-house radius missed the party. Before long, the crowd joined in, dancing commenced (interpretations varied widely), and the line between audience and performers happily disappeared.
By evening’s end, it was clear: this was more than just a gathering. It was a celebration of friendship, laughter, and the kind of community that knows how to adapt, show up, and have a very good time doing it.
Safe travels to our snowbirds as they head off for the summer. We’ll keep things warm here—perhaps a little too warm—and look forward to welcoming you back in the fall.
