Jackie Cox
Joan Bruening had a unique plan to meet her SunBird neighbors when she moved here 10 years ago. After concluding the billing coding work she did for a doctor, she began a sewing business!
She started sewing for her friends, and they told their friends and neighbors about her careful, almost two-day turnaround and modest prices.
Soon she was shortening hems, changing waistlines, repairing and creating for many – and making friends. Today, because of demand, she limits her sewing to family and SunBird residents.
In addition to alterations, Joan does machine embroidery, such as monogrammed men’s golf shirts, monogrammed golf aprons and embroidered shirts for family reunions. Her other sewing abilities include knitting, crocheting and Brazilian hand embroidery. Joan also volunteers on Friday afternoons at her church, St. Juan Diego.
The retired science teacher’s brother Jerry Spraley later moved here also, and he joins her for most evening meals. One of her four daughters lives in the area, and she has eight grandchildren.
Joan is one of the business providers on the white, stapled service list located beside the HOA office window, which also includes phone numbers.
Service providers are many and include painters, plumbers, health services, carpenters and pest and landscaping.