Arizona experienced an extremely early heat wave this year, breaking all previous temperature records. The average temperature in March was 12.5 degrees higher than normal and exceeded the previous record by 6.5 degrees on March 21, when temperatures reached 106 degrees. These unusually high early temperatures created concerns for many outdoor events that had already been scheduled and planned expecting much cooler and tolerable weather. As a result, several SunBird outdoor events were rescheduled or, when possible, moved into the ballroom. At SunBird, March is the busiest month of the year, featuring numerous shows, concerts, state parties, season–ending banquets, and recreational tournament championships. We appreciate everyone’s flexibility in sharing facilities and adjusting to changes in room assignments and event times. Fortunately, temperatures in April have returned to more typical levels.
This summer, SunBird has several maintenance and improvement projects scheduled. The ballroom hardwood flooring will be professionally sanded, refurbished, and sealed to preserve the integrity and longevity of the spacious 7,200-square-foot floor. The fitness center will receive upgraded exercise equipment, fresh paint, and updated flooring. Additionally, sections of the clubhouse that have faded will be repainted. Lighting upgrades throughout the clubhouse will continue, replacing older fluorescent fixtures with more modern and energy–efficient LED lighting. Several of the clubhouse’s 23 air conditioning units will also receive upgraded smart thermostats. These new systems can detect room occupancy, be programmed for temperature ranges, enter energy-saving modes when the clubhouse is closed, and return rooms to comfortable temperatures before use. Earlier this year, two of these thermostats were tested in the clubhouse and performed very well. This project is expected to improve both comfort and energy efficiency.
This summer, the Horizon Room operational hours will differ from the previous years. In past years, extended evening food service hours were requested for the summer months. However, these extended hours were not consistently supported by sufficient business to justify continuing them. As a result, the updated schedule for the summer months will be as follows:
Sunday: Food service: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bar: open until 2 p.m.
Monday: No food service, Bar: 1 to 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday to Saturday: Food service: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bar: open until 7 p.m.
Every Tuesday and Friday: Food service extended until 7 p.m.
Special events throughout the summer may include extended hours, which will be scheduled and posted accordingly. We appreciate everyone who continues to enjoy and support the Horizon Room.
Before leaving SunBird for an extended period, please complete the “We’re Back/We’re Leaving” form on the SunBird website or visit the SunBird office to update your mailing address and emergency contact information.
SunBird wouldn’t be SunBird without its people. All of these activities and events are made possible by the many clubs, groups, and staff working together. We sincerely appreciate everyone who helped organize, promote, sell tickets, set up, operate, and clean up after these events. Your teamwork helps keep SunBird a safe, active, and enjoyable community for all.