On Jan. 20 nearly 70 new homeowners from the Class of 2025 gathered for a lively and engaging evening designed to help them learn more about SunBird and get to know their neighbors. The event was filled with information, laughter, and plenty of prizes, setting a warm and welcoming tone for all attendees.
The evening began with an opportunity for homeowners to meet and learn about each other. Committee member Gary Metzger and board member Bob Lama introduced themselves at each table and organized a fun game, with the table centerpieces as prizes, encouraging interaction and camaraderie among the guests.
Board member Chuck Heitbrink, serving as the master of ceremonies, entertained the group by asking questions about the new homeowners. There were many laughs throughout the activity, and it was discovered that one of the new residents hailed from England, adding to the evening’s excitement.
Guests enjoyed a selection of hearty appetizers for their evening meal. Julie and her team from the Horizon Room ensured that everyone was well-fed and satisfied with a delicious array of offerings.
General Manager Layne Varney provided a brief history of SunBird, offering valuable context and background for the new homeowners. Following this, Chuck Heitbrink spoke about the wide variety of activities and clubs available to residents, highlighting the vibrant community life at SunBird.
Throughout the evening, more than 20 door prizes were awarded, generously donated by several local vendors. Prizes ranged from $25 gift cards from Albertson’s to pizzas from Barro’s and Papa Murphy’s, and even a one-hour massage from Sozo’s, giving everyone a chance to win something special.
As the event concluded, attendees expressed their gratitude for the enjoyable and informative evening. The Welcoming Committee provided a goodie bag to each homeowner as a token of appreciation for their participation.
The committee members are Ron Volk (chair), Bob Bitler, Carol Delk, Gary Metzker, Jean Pritchard, Lizzie Roads, Sonia Sjurserth, and special help from Colleen Fujimoto for preparing all the centerpieces. The committee is already looking ahead to next year and is excited to welcome the new homeowners of 2026 at a similar event in January.