Schroeder: Another RCSC year comes to a close in Sun City

As we turn another page on the calendar and enter into a new year soon, the Recreation Centers of Sun City Board of Directors is winding up business for this most unusual year as well.

While adhering to a variety of government regulations, restrictions and requirements, this past year for many in Sun City has been quite different in some ways, yet very similar in others.

I think it is safe to say that this is not the same Sun City where many of our parents and grandparents came to enjoy their retirement. New arrivals are often still working and participation in various clubs and activities have changed over time.

Closure of the recreation centers early on in the pandemic left many at a loss for what to do with their interrupted daily routines. But what we had going for us here was great weather. While others throughout much of the country were still trudging through winter and into early spring, we enjoyed sunshine, pleasant temperatures and walks throughout the neighborhoods. Just being outside was a luxury many did not have in other areas.

We survived another summer despite record-breaking heat. We managed to find respite at the swimming and walking pools at the recreation centers. With face masks and dedicated efforts to social distance, Sun City as a whole stayed fairly well for the most part.

We will continue to persevere and survive. While the upcoming winter may bring worries about rising numbers compounded by the arrival of flu season, we will come up with innovative ways to stay active, creative and engaged. We’ll have concerts in driveways and take group bike rides. Golfers will continue to “make the rounds” and bowlers will soon be back on the lanes when “modified-league play” returns.

Neighbors will still check up on neighbors and offer to help with grocery runs if needed. Zoom meetings and video links will keep us connected and able to join others who have similar interests besides celebrating the holidays virtually with relatives both near and far.

As I complete this final term serving on the RCSC Board of Directors, looking back I can say that there has been a lot of good accomplished. While many felt we were being too restrictive in many aspects when it came to facing the COVID-19 crisis, we have kept cardholders and staff safe and well for the most part. Turf reduction projects have saved millions of gallons of water and solar at various facilities will help offset utility costs for years to come. The property on Grand Avenue went from abandoned structure to something very special and will become a new community landmark for all who travel along the Phoenix-to-Wickenburg Highway (U.S. 60/Grand Avenue).

The work of the RCSC Board of Directors will continue on into the new year with new members, new focus and new ideas. Priorities will likely focus on technology and security, which in many respects go hand-in-hand. Planning for Mountain View Center will leap from the drawing board to reality over the next few years and Sun City will have one more feather in its cap to draw new residents to the oasis in the desert, the first of its kind established in 1960.

Take care, be well and treasure every day. More good things are coming soon.

Editor’s Note: Mr. Schroeder is Recreation Centers of Sun City board president for 2020.