The 25th Anniversary of Sun City is not just a number, it’s a testament to lots of collective dedication and hard work. Over the past quarter-century, Sun City has transformed into an exceptional resort-style community for active adults aged 55 and over. The lifestyle has evolved, enriched by the addition of events, classes, charter clubs, a myriad of activities, and a 94,000-square-foot clubhouse. With over 5,400 homes spread across 2,200 acres, Sun City Huntley stands as one of the largest and most amenity-rich communities in the region, and a true source of pride for all residents.
What does this mean? Volunteers from the community are planning a year-long party.
Sun City’s lifestyle committee, chaired by Ken Ladage, formed an ad-hoc committee tasked with designing the Silver Anniversary celebration. The 25th Building Party Ad Hoc Committee, chaired by Marilyn Berendt, includes volunteers Darlene Pratt, Jackie Monilaw, Harriet Ford, Pam Prissel, Trish Wainscott, Marsha Natlins, Sheri Goldstein, and Helene Weston.
Berendt said, “We have many more volunteers. Forty-four people volunteered to do something for the twenty-fifth. They registered on the volunteer site on the website. We are in the process of calling volunteers to confirm their availability. Volunteering for the twenty-fifth anniversary celebration is a great way to contribute to our community, meet new people, and have fun while doing it.”
The party kicked off on April 10 of this year. While the event’s capacity was technically full, all residents could participate. Whether they watched it live in the lodge or streamed it from the comfort of their homes, everyone was part of the celebration. The event included a history lesson with photos by Jake Marino, Huntley historian. Bill Niemasz, President of the Sun City Board, shared the story of Del Webb’s growth and resident Joanie Berg’s persistence that led to the Del Webb building in Huntley. Michael Mendillo, Regional President of First Residential, Sun City’s management company, highlighted the management company’s 17-year tenure, emphasizing the role of every community member and its success. And of course, there was plenty of cake.
Berendt said, “There’s a lot of meetings and hard work. We have divided the Ad Hoc Committee tasks into four areas: entertainment, food, operations, and volunteerism. We have a slogan, a catchphrase for the celebration: Viva Sun City.”
Beyond this party, there are many more celebrations to experience.
Save the date and register now for the 25th Anniversary Fun Walk, Roll, and Swim. Register for either a one or three-mile walk, five or twelve-mile bike, or half to one-mile swing. Also, get ready for the 25th Anniversary Concert and Parade on Saturday, June 29 — rain or shine, inside or outside. Special activities include a pancake breakfast, face painting, a photo backdrop, and more. “Those Funny Little People” will provide entertainment. Registration is required for the breakfast and Golf Cart Parade. Check the Lifestyles Magazine or Sun City website for more information.
Berendt said, “We will have more entertainment, activities, and prizes, similar to our 20th celebration but with some new twists. For our final event in October, tickets will be sold with two time slots, and residents will be given wristbands to identify the time slot registered for.”
The Sun City 25th Anniversary celebration signifies a steadfast commitment to cultivating a vibrant, active adult community. Viva Sun City!
