Exploring the Buzz in Sun Lakes: Remodels, Politics and Generational Divides

 

The Master Boards Bold Move: Let's explore the latest stirrings in Sun Lakes, centering on the heated remodel of our Restaurant and Lounge and delving into what's really igniting all this commotion. From my vantage point, the heart of the matter lies in our community's diverse demographic mix. Here, retirees and desk-bound warriors alike are making their mark, each bringing a suitcase full of opinions as varied as a painter's palette. The result? A vibrant, if occasionally discordant, blend of voices that never shies away from a lively debate.

Generational Clash at the Dinner Table: Enter stage left: the different generations residing in Sun Lakes. We have the Silent Generation, dignified and nearly a century old, born from 1925 to 1945 – so called because they were raised during a period of war and economic depression, who long for the days of dining out in top hats and tails. Next up, my fellow Baby Boomers from 1945 to 1964, the result of an increase in births following the end of World War II, craving nothing fancier than a good burger and a laugh in their jeans T-shirts and tennis shoes. Then there’s Generation X, from around 1965 to 1976, who are just beginning to retire, the new kids on the block, of which many are still working, and just want a sports bar vibe where they can unwind with some tunes, drinks and pub grub after a day's toil.

As might be expected, everyone's certain their vision for our restaurant and lounge is the ideal one. Compromise? As rare as low cholesterol at a Las Vegas buffet. Thus, we entrust our Master Board to steer us through this generational tug-of-war, hoping they can weave these disparate strands into a cohesive whole. However, once a decision is reached, it's open season—the elected officials quickly become the besieged, bombarded with accusations of a lack of transparency, financial waste, and incompetence. It's similar to a sitcom where everyone's eager to critique but no one steps up to script the next episode.

When the Heat Rises: And when the debates heat up? It becomes less of a community gathering and more a parade of dissatisfaction, where complaining seems to be the local sport. Amidst this chaos, those of us still clinging to sanity decide to tune out the noise, tired of the drama these boors love to stir. They whip the crowd into a frenzy, turning peaceful neighbors into megaphone-wielding lemmings, desperate to be heard.

A Parting Thought: If I had the answers, I'd be the wise sage on the mountaintop, not in the trenches with you.  That said, I shall leave you with a thought from the wisest among us—my 99-year-old mother-in-law: If you haven't got anything nice to say, maybe just enjoy the peace and zip it. We’re retired, living in paradise—let’s not forget to enjoy the view before the credits roll!

“Just when I discovered the meaning of life, they changed it.” …George Carlin

 

Back to Blogging: Dodging Drama in Sun Lakes!

 

Well, it turns out my 'little' blogging sabbatical wasn't so little after all! Why the break? Let's just say I got so wrapped up in Sun Lakes' thrilling dramas that I nearly forgot the joys of witty banter and sassy sign-offs. Returning to blogging feels like dusting off an old digital diary—I just hope I remember the password.

Indeed, my daily activities have evolved into something resembling a full-time job. I'd been actively writing for 'Sun Lakes Life Styles,' covering the Garden Club and the Happy Cookers. I also took on the role of delegate, which surprisingly ate up a good chunk of my time. Additionally, my commitment to various ad hoc and advisory committees had left little space for personal pursuits. I'd become a deeply integrated and active member of the Sun Lakes community, which is rewarding yet incredibly time-consuming.

But wait, there's more! I even delved into the dark underbelly of community politics, supporting a candidate in the race for our Master Board. It was the muddiest campaign in my 11 years here—national politics seem tame in comparison. The preferred weapon? Social media, where lies and vitriol spread like wildfire.

It’s astonishing how even in our peaceful retirement haven, the thirst for power emerges. You’d think after a lifetime of hard work, tranquility would be the goal, yet power remains a seductive mistress. One candidate, a wolf in sheep's clothing, bombarded our board and community with daily emails spreading untruths. Thankfully, our community saw through the facade, though, sadly, another charlatan managed to slip through.

The delegate assembly was equally tumultuous, led by an unethical figure, so  I quickly distanced myself from it. Fortunately, that leader has since been replaced, and the delgate assembly can refocus on Sun Lakes.

The political climate became so toxic that I needed to retreat to my blogging sanctuary. I’m back to the simpler pleasures of life at Sun Lakes, where the toughest campaigns involve choosing quilt colors or cookie shapes.

Welcome back to my cozy corner of the internet—where sarcasm is served with a smile, and everyone's welcome! Unless, of course, you’re here to campaign or complain about Sun Lakes. In that case, brace for a cheeky, swift exit. Here's to reconnecting and sharing many smiles—and perhaps a few eye-rolls!

 …and so, I leave you with my final thought: “I used to think I was indecisive, but now I'm not too sure." Isn’t that perfect for a blogger who's only certain about one thing: uncertainty loves company?