The first attempt at making jewelry using precious metal clay; created by Edie Leo
Geri Hall
Is this your first summer in Sun Lakes? You will notice a lot of talk about where to go to beat the heat, yet there is a core of people who live in Sun Lakes year-round and even enjoy the change of pace that summer brings. As spring heads towards summer, you might notice changes in our community. There are parking places available and tables at the restaurants. Tee times change, and there may even be a spot on the tennis courts. But the biggest change you’ll notice is the weather; the temperature rises, limiting the amount of time you will spend outdoors.
What most new full-time residents may not know is that some clubs and organizations continue to meet informally during the off season. One such club is the Sun Lakes Rock, Gem and Silver Club (SLRGS). One of the larger clubs in Sun Lakes, the SLRGS offers members the opportunity to create about 20 different crafts while socializing and making friends. Members use tools and materials in three different shops. All three shops are comfortably air conditioned.
During the summer, many of the instructors seize the opportunity to try new techniques and materials. Some offer classes upon request, such as silver and lost wax. Other instructors offer open shop where you can learn and practice several half-days a week.
To learn more about available activities, go to the SLRGS website, SLRGS.com, and find information on the courses and contact information for joining the club and classes. You do not need to wait for fall to join the SLRGS club.
There is one more general meeting of the SLRGS at 10:00 a.m. on April 17 in the Navajo Room at the Sun Lakes Country Club. You can join the club and speak with course instructors about summer offerings.
If you are unable to attend the meeting but want to visit the workshops and ask questions, there are three different shops; one in Sun Lakes Country Club, another in Cottonwood and one in Oakwood. There is a schedule on each door with the names and phone numbers of instructors and shop monitors to help you get started. So consider spending your summer in Sun Lakes learning new skills and making new friends. The summer will fly by!