For the seventh consecutive year, Sun City’s Stingray Swim Club celebrated Valentine’s Day. This year the festivities actually were held on Feb. 14.
Six of these get-togethers have taken place at the residence of Nick and Joanie Koplos. For three of the past four years, the highlight of the afternoon’s activities has been a charity auction. Originally suggested by member Margarete Liedtke, the auctioned services are donated by Stingrays and purchased by Stingrays. Nick Koplos annually acts as the club’s auctioneer.
Nick Koplos auctions off an item to raise money for charity. (Photos provided)
The services can be as diverse as a month’s donation of a Sun City Garden plot’s homegrown tomatoes or vegetables, an A.M. one-way ride to O’Hare Airport, piano lessons’ instruction, the weeding of a garden, the washing/waxing of a car, the preparation of food delicacies, and monetary contributions.
Many of the food delicacies, among other club donated appetizers and desserts, were even available for tasting at the party. With 25 total participants, including members, their sweethearts, and close friends present; the Stingrays also celebrated a special birthday.
This year, Joanie Koplos introduced a new additional source for revenue entitled “Joanie’s Boutique.” The boutique was comprised of Ms. Koplos’ own wardrobe of unused/still tagged clothing items available for sale. Together the service auction and boutique sales totaled $800!
One half of the proceeds will be shared equally by this year’s club-chosen charities of Huntley’s new Radio Station and Laurie Kay’s Stardust Sanctuary for Rescued Animals in Hampshire (featured on Sun Day’s January 15-28 cover page).
The Stingrays ARE ALWAYS WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS! If you love to swim and are interested in joining the Stingrays, please check us out on Saturday mornings. We swim under the instruction of Coach Len Lencioni from 9-10 a.m. On the second Saturday of each month, the Stingrays meet at 10:30 a.m. in the Fountain View Room for our monthly meeting which includes, of course, eating and socializing.
For all Sun Citians, here is a CLUB NEWS ALERT! Once again this year under the leadership of Terry Hora, the Stingrays will offer “Learn to Swim Lessons” on all five Wednesdays in the month of April from 5-6 p.m.
There is no charge for the instruction. Come on any or all April Wednesdays to learn water basics and help conquer your water fears. Please sign up in advance at the Prairie Lodge Fitness Desk.
