www.kpmaster.com
August 2021
Kings Point Community Symposium Alerts Residents to Better Prepare in the Event of a Disaster By Mary Ann Meeker Historically, disaster planning and information sharing has begun in February, to alert the community about preparations for a disaster (Hurricanes in particular). This year because we were concentrating on Covid 19 and getting as many folks vaccinated as possible, we began the process a little later. We started planning as soon as we were able to come together at the end of May, led by Liz Argott of the Federation Board and chair of the Health and Safety Committee. She created a Leadership Team enlisting Shawna Deiulio, Jim Argiro, Les Raba Master Association, Keith Wilking, Candi Raines from FSR, Mike Bardell SCC Emergency Squad, Matt Permuth and Pete Doxsee Vesta, Eileen Peco and Helen Morell, COA, Bob Preston CERT, Brian Burns of USI our Insurance Broker, Joe Powers of Heritage, the insurance covering our property in the event of a disaster and Mary Ann Meeker member if the Disaster Planning previous events. Question- What were we planning for? Answer- Potential Disaster. We were planning to bring all the information available to our com
eblasts, posters in buildings, information published in the monthly newspaper “The News of Kings Point”, USI preparing the Insurance We set our sights on a Guidebook and their Disaster Symposium on July 13, 2021, Planning Guide 2021. and many of the above representatives began preparing It all came together in the communications, including Veterans Theater on July munity to prepare for a disaster, hurricane, tornado, flood, or any disaster that might affect our community.
Bob Foster Honored with a Veterans Quilt from the Kings Point Quilters Bob Foster, currently a resident of Kensington in Kings Point, joined the Navy in 1954 and remained in Naval Aviation for 23 years. Bob’s sea duty time was served aboard carriers: Leyte, Tarawa, Randolph, Essex, and Intrepid. Bob retired from the Navy in 1977 and became a Flight Examiner for the FAA. Bob was also a full-time pilot with 4 different airlines. THANK YOU, BOB, FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY.
13, 2021. Mike Bardell welcomed over 400 residents to the Symposium. We had over 25 tables set up, representing various organizations, giving information and giveaways. We had a variety of speakers, including many of the participants mentioned above. The Sheriff’s Department, TECO, Sun Radio, Samaritan Services, Vesta Security Patrol, CERT, South Bay Hospital, County Representative for the Shelters to name a few. Someone said, “it certainly made me feel better knowing so many leaders in the county and community were here to tell us how we can prepare and how they will help.” Brian Burn’s of USI, was amazed at how well attended it was, “he had never seen a community deal with getting the word out about being prepared for a disaster this way.” At the end of the morning, we had many, many positive responses, the Leadership Team had done their job, but wait there is more to do. As Bob Preston of CERT said, “we all should make a plan, let folks know of your plan and stick to the Plan.” Liz Argott closed the Symposium with these catchy phrases, “What’chya gonna do? Where’ya gonna go? Remember making preparation plans are lifesavers.
2 Page
The News of Kings Point
August 2021
WHAT IS THE KINGS POINT CONDOMINIUM OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION, INC. (COA)? The purpose of the COA is to promote health, safety, welfare and the general interest of its Members and Kings Point. The COA provides a wide variety of services for its Member Associations and Owners for annual dues of only $5.00 per home. Sevices are available right in Kings Point. What does your one-time per year fee of $5.00 provide? Just to name a few of the services offered to the Member Owners: • Use of the COA Bulletin Boards in the North Clubhouse you can post items for sale or rent; or list wanted items. • Have your name and phone number listed in the Kings Point COA Membership Directory so your friends can find you. • Get free notary services. • Fax documents and get photocopying done. • Skip the line at the Post Office and get your stamps at the COA. • Shred your important papers to help avoid identity theft. • Borrow wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches on an as-needed basis. • The COA manages the Kings Point library.
The COA office is located in 1902 Clubhouse Drive – walk around to the rear of the building and look for our signs. UPCOMING MEETINGS
Most Kings Point Associations vote to include the one-time yearly fee of $5.00 in their association fees. If your Association paid your yearly fee, this means that you and your neighbors are all Members and are entitled to use the services offered by the COA.
August 6th @ 9:30am Federation Board Meeting KPNCH - Card Room
However, if your Association does not pay the yearly fee, you as a unit owner can individually join the COA to be eligible for all the COA services.
August 11th @ 9:30am Master Association Town Hall KPNCH - Card Room
Stop in the COA Office or call 813-633-1710 to find out if your Association funded their Owners’ membership in the COA or if you will need to join individually. If you are a new owner in the Kings Point Community, stop in to join the COA and pick up your COA Welcome Bag containing important community information of interest.
The COA plans to publish a KINGS POINT COA MEMBERSHIP DIRECTORY for distribution by early November or December. Watch for future announcements regarding COA meetings and events. We hope we will see you at the COA… Announcing the 1st Annual KINGS POINT TASTE OF THE HOLIDAYS
A Christmas Affair Benefitting Mary & Martha House
food and a fun way to help many needy women and their families with our chosen charity for this event, Mary & Martha House. Some of the highlights of this event include:
Mark your calendars for the social event of the season. Our first annual Taste of the Holidays will be presented on Monday, December 13th at the North Clubhouse.
The Master Association, The Federation of Kings Point Associations, The Condominium Owners Association and our property managers Vesta and FirstService.
This fun-filled event is a joint venture of your Kings Point leadership team consisting of
Together we anticipate bringing you, the residents of Kings Point, a great time, great
• Local restaurants will be selling sample portions of their finest fare in the Veteran’s Theater. • Seating will be available in the Banquet room for dining. • Raffles featuring some of the most extraordinary prizes available. • An Angel Christmas tree for needy families of the Mary & Martha House. • Madrigal carolers. • An appearance by Santa • The Kings Point craft clubs will be available to sell their wares for Christmas gifts. • Adult beverages will be for sale in the lobby
August 25th @ 2:00pm Master Round Table Discussions KPNCH - Ripple Room *Open to Presidents and Board Members only.
September 3rd @ 9:30am Federation Board Meeting KPNCH - Card Room September 7th @ 2:00pm COA Meeting KPNCH - Banquet Room September 8th @ 9:30am Master Association Town Hall KPNCH - Card Room September 17th @ 9:30am Federation Membership Meeting KPNCH - TBD September 29th @ 2:00pm Master Round Table Discussions KPNCH - Ripple Room *Open to Presidents & Board Members only.
Come one, come all for a fun family time. Plan on entering our many drawings for prizes including our Grand Prize of a weekend stay at the Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande. More updates will be coming in the future. Taste of the Holidays: Your community leadership team coming together to enhance your enjoyment of Kings Point.
Their Mission: To provide emergency and transitional housing and support services to abused and homeless women and their dependent children so that they will gain employment and successfully transition to permanent housing.
August 2021 The News of Kings Point
Page 3
DO YOU KNOW WHAT THE MASTER ASSOCIATION DOES? The general purpose of the Master Association is to provide supervision, management, and determination as to the care and maintenance of roads, traffic control, landscaping within the roadway rights-of-way and other Master Association property, drainage systems, and irrigation systems (including all wells, pumps, pipes, and other facilities or equipment thereof) located throughout the Kings Point Project, as well as other matters determined to be in the best interest of the Kings Point by the Board of Directors from time to time.
derground irrigation pipes and wires, hundreds of electrical valves, pumps, wells and controllers all over Kings Point. Until recently there was no map that indicated where all that was located. So, welcome 21st century. The Master Board contracted with a GPS style company to locate all those items and they were given a distinct numbered location so that the irrigation company can locate so much easier.
The Board members aren’t magicians or telepathic, but with our Big job? You bet it is. management company and There are approximately 35 our assigned manager we miles of roads, 1600 irrigation are able to search the rezones, miles and miles of un- quired industries for experts to
guide and inform the Board of the proper path to achieve the intended goals. Those experts help establish road paving schedules, Florida healthy pond ecosystems, effective water drainage during storms just to name a few.
so the Board is never without experienced Directors.
Let’s take a look at the Master Associations Membership: Each association in Kings Point has one vote at membership meetings giving equality to the voting procedure per all the Association documents.
The continued improvement of Kings Point is the determined goal of the Master Association’s Board. The unit owners of our community have vast knowledge from their past lives and those are the people who contribute their time and energy to help the Master Association achieve that goal by volunteering.
Now, let’s take a look at how the Board chosen: The bylaws call for a Board of seven members. Every year there is an election for 3-4 members in order to stagger the terms
Currently, the Board has five committees manned by Kings Point volunteers to advise the Board of their research, communications with experts and to employ their former careers experience.
The Master Association is here to assist COA’s and HOA’s of Kings Point. JUST CALL 813-8127559, email master@kpmaster.com or visit our website at www.kpmaster.com
Seasonal Color Coming Soon
Russell Landscaping will be providing the Master Association with colorful seasonal flowers that will be planted in Master Flower beds around the community. We are particularly excited about the design shown above which features a prominent KP in the bed near
the mail box on Kings Blvd. Russell will ensure our beds stay healthy and beautiful through weekly maintenance which includes pulling weeds, deadheading spent blooms, and replenishing mulch, fertilizer, insecticides or fungicide aids as necessary.
Christmas Tree Lighting Extravaganza cially grandkids, please bring them out for our lighting ceremony.
This year’s Holiday lighting offers some extra pizzazz. The Master Association has purchased and planted two live Southern Red Cedar trees in Charles Hassell Heritage Park on either side of the gazebo.
Along with our front and back entrances to Kings Point, the two Christmas trees will be lit starting right after dusk on Friday. Vesta will provide car parking at the North Clubhouse and buses to take you to the Gazebo area to take part in the festivities. Parking, for golf carts only, will be available at the park in a way to offer excellent views of the festivities. There will be seating available for those coming on the bus.
These beautiful 12 foot trees are native to Florida and will continue to grow each year up to a total height nearing 40 feet.
We will have carolers and, rumor has it, perhaps a visit from Santa Claus. More fun activities are being planned and will be announced later.
These trees will be decorated for Christmas and be the focal point of this year’s Holiday lighting festivities on Friday, November 26.
This holiday celebration is brought to you by your community leadership team.
If you have family in town, espe-
Garden Club Improvements
See you the Friday evening after Thanksgiving, November 26th.
Garden Club members volunteered to add a new look to their sheds with a new coat of paint and new ramps. The club has all the garden tools that any green thumb would need to have a clean and tidy plot. Each member has a plot that they can grow vegetables and flowers to their liking. Every possible variety can be found in the 4 acre property that is leased from the Master Association. Volunteers schedule work days for continued upgrades, clean up after a storm and prepping for an event.
with gas grills where social gatherings are held. The club members frequently attend Hillsborough County Extension workshops, field trips to other garden clubs and an occasional visit from, as seen on TV, David Whitwam for Whitwam Organics. This fall the club is planning an “open house” for residents of Kings Point to visit the garden and chat with our members. So, stay tuned for the date.
Information about joining our waitlist, call Chris Robinson 612-599-9747 or Sally Kikitis 207The club also has a pavilion 245-0285.
Thank you to Rose Paving for paving the Garden Club entrance road as a donation to the Kings Point Community.
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The News of Kings Point
The Nine Principles of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping Program
July 2021 August
Improvements to Kings Point Roadways Over the past several months the Master Association has made several improvements to the roadways throughout the community. Those improvements include:
By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Agent UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County
For an easy-to-implement approach to create and maintain an attractive and healthy landscape that protects Florida’s natural resources, follow the nine steps listed below.
• Milling and paving over 500,000 square feet of roads
1. Right Plant, Right Place – Select plants that require minimal amounts of water, fertilizer and pesticides. Consider soil type and pH, sun and shade, wet versus dry and mature size. 2. Water Efficiently – Irrigate only when your lawn and landscape need water.
• Restriping and adding additional cross walks and stop bars
3. Fertilize Appropriately – Use time release fertilizer, and do not fertilize before a heavy rain. You can order your personal copy of A Do-It-Yourself Guide to Florida-Friendly Fertilizing at: watermatters.org.
• Adding signage for cross walks, golf cart crossings and wild life
4. Maximize Mulch – Maintain a 2-3 inch layer of mulch after it settles to retain soil moisture, prevent erosion and suppress weeds. Use organic mulches, such as Pine bark, Pine straw, Eucalyptus and Melaleuca (Punk tree). As mulch decomposes, organic material is added to your soil. Create self-mulching areas under trees.
• Removed the end cap at the entrance between 674 and the monument sign
• Extending the turn lane at Kings Blvd and Foxhunt Drive
• Widening speed bumps at front gate entrance and exit sides
5. Attract Wildlife – Plants that provide food, water and shelter are beneficial to Florida’s diverse wildlife. Vines, shrubs and trees provide cover/shelter, nesting areas and/or food. 6. Control Yard Pests Responsibly – Unwise use of pesticides can harm people, pets, beneficial organisms and the environment. Less than one percent of all insects are pests. When we kill the bad bugs, we also eliminate good bugs. Check your plants regularly. Avoid routine applications of pesticides and treat only affected areas. Use non-chemical approaches to pest control and/or environmentally-friendly pesticides. 7. Recycle – Convert kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich organic matter. Want more information about composting? Attend a UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Compost Happens Workshop and turn your kitchen and yard waste into garden treasure. You will receive a compost bin, compost thermometer and kitchen compost bucket. 8. Reduce Stormwater Runoff – Sweep fertilizer, pesticides and grass clippings into your landscape and off your sidewalk and driveway to prevent nonpoint source pollution. Create swales, terracing or rain gardens to catch, hold and filter stormwater. Direct downspouts and gutters onto plant beds or turfgrass. Use pervious surfaces in your landscapes. Attend a rain barrel workshop at the UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County and learn to harvest rainwater for landscape use and receive a rain barrel that we have drilled and spigoted. 9. Protect the Waterfront – Remove invasive exotics. Establish a 10 foot maintenance-free “no fertilizer/no pesticide” zone along the shoreline. Plant native aquatic vegetation in front of seawall or along shoreline. Eliminate sources of pollution and protect our natural treasure, Florida’s water bodies. The first step in making any changes to your landscape in a deed restricted community is to check your deed restrictions to determine if you can make those changes. Chances are you will need to complete an application to change your landscape and submit the request to the Architectural Control or Landscape Review Committee. It may be in your best interests to provide information from a horticultural education source, like the University of Florida, supporting reasons for the change you are seeking. You can use any search engine and go to: UF groundcovers, UF turfgrass or UF drought tolerant plants. You will receive a list of research based publications identifying the advantages and disadvantages of the options available.
Photo of the Month The next Master Association Town Hall Meeting will be held on August 11th at 9:30am in Card Room at the North Clubhouse. Coffee and donuts will be provided by our guest speaker, Todd Stanilus from Rose Paving.
Taken By: Len Farrell Kings Point Resident
If you are a President or Board Member of your Association don’t forget to sign up for the Presidents Round Table Discussions held the last Wednesday of every month. Email master@kpmaster.com to sign up.
Driving Safety Tips We All Should Follow We live in an active community that is full of people using the streets, sidewalks and crosswalks for a variety of reasons. It is important that we remain vigilant at all times and respect others’ use of the road. Following these tips will help us ensure safety and avoid accidents. • Do not exceed the speed limit. • Exercise caution at intersections, turns and crosswalks. Look in all directions for potential pedestrians including lawn care workers and other vendors. • Stop at all stop signs. A rolling stop is NOT a stop.
• Do not tailgate golf carts or slow moving vehicles. • Do not pass on roadways with designated double lines. • Keep a safe distance from bicycles and scooters utilizing the roadways.
312 S. US Hwy 41 • Ruskin, FL 33570 Store Hours: Tuesday- Friday 9-4 pm Donation drop-off is 9-1 pm. Sat. 9-1 pm Donations are 9-12.
of Sun City Center & South County News Line: 813.938.7441 • Ad Line: 813.938.8721 • www.soco.news • August 2021
A Labor of Love
By Kai Rambow raccoons recover because she The tiny fawn vacuumed its is becoming a veterinarian, and bottle in three gulps. It was very so got vaccinated. hungry and had only been Sometimes people who rescued a few hours earlier. contact the organization are Fortunately, it was now at Owl’s frustrated. One, because they Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife. Owl’s sometimes don’t understand Nest is the largest rehabilitation what is involved. Two, because facility in Central Florida they sometimes have unrealistic covering east to Orlando, south expectations. While I was there to Bradenton and north to a call came in to rescue a Gainesville. During the summer turkey stranded in the middle of months they are at capacity. the road in a heavy rainstorm. The goal is to help wildlife A rescue attempt under those recover and be returned to the conditions would endanger a wild. They have an 80 percent volunteer’s safety. And even success rate. Anything above 50 though Owl’s Nest works with is considered to be good. a wide variety of species, the With ease Kris Porter, the facility does not rehabilitate director, seamlessly transitioned turkeys. from one bird/animal to the Porter has great organization next one. Porter is an expert, skills. Charts keep track of a retired zoologist with Busch Diamondback terrapin turtles are small, but are most noted for their animals’ progress in recovery. Gardens. Zoologists have incredibly beautiful shells. No two shells are alike. A huge binder, set on a stand Much is Required studied the behavior and That does not cover everything for easy access, has detailed To be a rehabilitation facility, though. For example, there information on diets for various physiology of animals. If Porter knows the species, they’ll take licenses are required. Even are many calls in a year about animals. Experienced volunteers it. Porter says, “rehabilitation is veterinarians are not allowed raccoons. To work with raccoons help new volunteers transition to my retirement,” but to see her in to do rehabilitation, unless safely requires vaccines because being good animal care givers. action is to see boundless love licensed. A state license covers of distemper and rabies. The If you would like to learn for animals. It is also probably mammals and reptiles. To look shots cost $700 and the state more or become a volunteer, what inspires over 325 volunteers after feathered friends requires won’t cover those. One of the a federal license. to be a part of the mission. volunteers, Julia, has helped Love continued on page 21.
Buc-ee’s - Road Trip Destination
By Kai Rambow It is Texas-sized, making it a destination in itself. Buc-ee’s is well known in its home state, and has recently expanded into Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. It’s a fun, worthwhile stop. What’s Worthwhile I can only make a few recommendations here. This gas bar/convenience store is well over 10 times the size of a Wawa with over 100 gas pumps. You can get an extra-large drink for only 79 cents. Beside the typical sodas, there are other drinks, including iced tea. This has to be one of the best deals anywhere. Hot sandwiches are, for the most part, well-liked. A hot brisket sandwich is very popular. BBQ lovers have claimed not to rave about this, while others stated it’s good. I tried a pulled pork BBQ sandwich, which was tasty with a melt in your mouth quality. Buc-ee’s potato chips, called Beaver Chips, are so popular I couldn’t get any. Trying to order/coordinate some with your ready-to-go sandwich may
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One of the most popular food items at Buc-ee’s, a hot chopped brisket sandwich. You can also get made to order food items. There are over 100 gas pumps at Buc-ee’s. The convenience store is more than 10 times the size of Wawa’s.
Inside the Buc-ee’s store. The sheer size of selections is overwhelming.
require some advice from staff. I did get a good bite to eat. Gas prices were competitively priced, and Buc-ee’s had the biggest and cleanest set of restrooms I’ve seen on the road. What’s Not Worthwhile If you love Wawa’s coffee, you’ll be disappointed. The
taste and variety of choices was just okay. Please note the risks I take for you. The selection of snacks is overwhelming. Many of the snacks are Buc-ee’s products and have been reviewed as too sweet or too spicy and a little pricey. If you have a really
sweet tooth you might enjoy trying something, otherwise you might want to skip. It was fun to take a quick walk and check everything out. Suggestion: You might want to select something you would normally get to do a true comparison. Where to Find The two locations in Florida are off I-95. If you’re doing a road trip in that direction, I-4 is mostly clear of the never-ending construction. I cruised right through on a recent trip, in both directions. Shortly after connecting to the I-95 North, at exit 265 (Daytona Beach) you’ll find the Buc-ee’s. Take the exit, turn right, then look to turn left at the next set of lights. Just past St. Augustine, at exit 323, you’ll find the other Bucee’s. Take the exit and turn left. After crossing the interstate, you’ll see the store on your left. Heading north on I-75 in Georgia, just south of Macon, you’ll find a Buc-ee’s. It’s exit 144 (Fort Valley) on your right.
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August 2021
The News
The Editor’s Corner
“You Have a Book?”
By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County The doctor stepped into the doorway of the exam room and froze, surprise and confusion flitting across her face. “You have a book?” she said, the observation pregnant with curiosity. I flipped the book closed, held it up, nodded. Not an eloquent response, certainly; but that hadn’t been the greeting I expected, so I was surprised as well. My doctor stepped into the room, a smile working its way onto her face, shining through the Standard Professional Mask physicians are taught to wear when dealing with patients. There was actual, honest-togoodness joy in that expression. And genuine interest. She leaned against the exam table, “What’s it about?” I offered a quick synopsis, borrowing heavily from the promotional blurb on the back flap, as I was only a few chapters in. “Any good?” she asked. “So far I like the writing, but haven’t quite found a character to root for yet,” I shrugged, “Going to give it a few more chapters, see if it picks up.” “Cool,” said the surgeon, and, for a moment, I could see the genuine person behind the lab coat, the shadow of a little girl for whom a trip to the bookstore was the highlight of her week. I smiled, recalling similar emotions as a young boy who was constantly begging mom to take him to the local bookshop and almost always had at least two books going at any given time. I still read two at a time, and I’m betting Doc does too. The surgeon smiled again, slowly, the expression allowing time for the professional mask to slip back into place, “It’s just unusual,” she said, almost apologetic, “I can’t tell you how long it’s been since I saw someone in here with a book.”
We both glanced unconsciously at our pockets, where our respective smartphones waited, with their enticing distractions and carefully cultivated sales pitches tailored, with disturbing accuracy, just for us. “I carry a book pretty much everywhere,” I said, “Otherwise, I’d just end up scrolling through my phone, hoping to find something interesting.” She nodded, a brief flash of empathy in her eyes, before shifting fully into Doctor Mode, “So… your x-rays look good…” I’ve thought about that brief, accidental conversation a lot in the past few weeks. As a lifelong reader, as well as a writer, journalist, editor, and novelist throughout my adult life, reading is, for me, both recreation and vocation. I savor the art and science of words, how they can be cobbled together to paint ideas in our minds. Ideas that reinforce our perspectives, poke at our beliefs, and challenge us to think more about life, the universe, and everything. Reading slows things down, allows us to chew on ideas, to appreciate imagery, to take time with thoughts, both new and familiar. Maybe that’s why I prefer print media to the fast-paced, inyour-face digital world of push notifications, social media feeds, and 30-second soundbites. And maybe that’s why I’ve always found myself working in some capacity with and for a print publication. Throughout my career in communications and media, I’ve watched the proliferation of the internet. Watched technology transition from convenient luxury to universal communication apparatus. As the carousel of progress spun us more and more into the web of technology, I still gravitated toward books, newspapers, and magazines. There is something strangely intangible about the tactile nature of the printed word that is simply, fundamentally better. Maybe I’m just “past it,” not with the times, but I stopped worrying about that years ago. Headed to the doctor’s? I grab a book. Going to the beach? Pack a paperback in there with the sunscreen. Road trip? Audiobook downloaded from the local library… Okay, so this
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is one way in which modern technology is truly beneficial. Road trips in years past meant cruising by Cracker Barrel to “rent” a book on tape from their collection, only to swap it out at another location up the road. That used to cost a small fortune, but it was better than struggling to find a decent local radio station in some parts of the country. Now, I can download audiobooks directly from the library for free. I still have music on quite a bit (digital music libraries are another modern invention I fully appreciate), but much of the time, I have a book going. Better still, my boys are picking up the habit. They keep books in the truck to read while they ride, and they often ask me to turn on the latest adventure of this hero or that one from our audiobook collection. As they grow, they’re certain to develop their own tastes in books and music. I’m just happy that they will develop these habits, rather than being sucked into social
of SCC & South County Is a publication of NOKPmedia PO Box 6212, Sun City Center, FL 33573-6212
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ADVERTISING: Neither NOKPmedia, nor its representatives or publications are liable for errors in advertising. THE NEWS does not endorse and cannot verify the accuracy of claims or representations made by advertisers who are solely responsible for advertisement contents. SUBMISSIONS: THE NEWS is proud to be the ONLY print media publication distributed to EVERY home and business in Greater Sun City Center, as well as several nearby communities in South Hillsborough County. We are dedicated to providing you a local paper with a “hometown” feel. Submissions we accept include: community events or business news, club or group announcements, stories and poems, as well as your favorite joke, song, photo, artwork, or travel story. NOKP Media (Publisher) reserves the right to edit or otherwise refuse all submissions. Neither the publisher nor the editor assume any responsibility for the return of submitted items. Mailed submissions can ONLY be returned if a correctly sized SASE is included with the submission. Basic paragraph format required for all submissions. Submissions including ALL CAPS, multiple colors, and other ‘flyer-type’ formatting will not be considered for publication. Email submissions are preferred. Submit stories and photos to “editor@soco.news”. Place the content in the body of the email and attach pictures in .jpeg or .png format. Submissions may be submitted via the SUBMISSIONS link at www.soco.news Mailed submissions should be sent to: The News of Sun City Center & South County C/O NOKPmedia PO Box 6212 Sun City Center, FL 33573-6212. LETTERS: The News of Sun City Center & South County will not publish any political, proselytizing, or complaint letters. We will consider “thank you” notes for good service directed toward local people, organizations, or businesses. DECLARATION: No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of NOKPmedia. All editorial copy is strictly the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of this publication, its officers or employees, or the Sun City Center Community Association. E. Adam Porter Editor in Chief 813.938.7441 editor@soco.news
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media or video games. It’s hard enough on adults, but the constant stream of messages and challenges on social media is devastating for kids who are trying to figure out who they are and where they fit in life. And maybe, just maybe, if they get into the habit of listening to good music and reading worthwhile books as kids, when they’re adults, they won’t get caught up in the partisan news and political talk radio that has become the bane of public discourse and destroyer of countless friendships and family dinners. That’s just the icing on the cake, though. For me, diving into a good book, newspaper, or magazine presents a superior entertainment experience. More immersive, the connection with the creator less distorted by other perspectives or agendas. There are fewer people between their ideas and my ideas, and I prefer it that way. Maybe you do too?
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Contributors: Frank Kepley, Garry Higgins, Bob Monahan, Peggy Burgess, Renee Bray, Debbie Caneen, John Lampkin, Cathy Meyerhoff, and Bob Sullivan (CA President).
A1 August 2021
The News
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COMMUNITY 4
August 2021
The News
Front Porch Pickers Perform
Every Wednesday, 2 to 4 p.m. SouthShore United Church of Christ Hospitality Hall La Jolla and North Pebble Beach Blvd. Enjoy country, bluegrass, traditional, and gospel music. If vaccinated against COVID-19, masks and social distancing are not required. Acoustic guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, ukulele, dobro and bass fiddle players are welcome to join us for good fun pickin’ and grinnin’. Info: David Lickfeld, “mandopicker2343@gmail.com”.
SAVE THE DATE: 2021 Community Health Fair
Health resources, free health screenings, giveaways, and more! Thursday, October 28, 2021 from noon to 3 p.m. at SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. in SCC.
Genealogical Society is Back
The South Bay Genealogical Society has announced a return to in-person meetings. The membership meetings will begin on September 21, 2021, at our noon luncheon at the United Methodist Church in Sun City Center. Our guest speaker will be Carol Weidlich, who will be explaining how Wikis can be used for genealogical research. If you would like to join us at our September through May luncheons, send a check for the yearly membership fee of $25 per family. Each luncheon will cost only $15 per person. Mail checks to: “South Bay Genealogical Society, PO Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571.” More info: Cathy at 813-643-4649.
Duplicate Bridge Association Donates To Samaritan Services
Sun City Center Duplicate Bridge Association donated $5,500 to Samaritan Alzheimer’s Auxiliary. In the photo, L to R, John Mayoka, President Samaritan Services; Ron Wallace, Club Manager SCC Dup. Bridge Assn.; Ronda O’Farrell, President SCC Dup. Bridge Assn.; Maggi Guzinsky, Board member SCC Dup. Bridge Assn.; Gerry Richard, Board member SCC Dup. Bridge Assn.
Susan Bailyn (holding check with Anita Bullaro) and Dr. Arthur Bailyn (far right) are donating $10,000 from The Mildred and Gladyn Tomiak Foundation to Our Lady’s Pantry.
Our Lady’s Pantry Receives $10,000
Pantry director Tom Bullaro had a surprise call one day from Susan Bailyn. Susan and her husband, Dr. Arthur Bailyn, are on the Board of a philanthropic foundation in New York. “Susan wanted to know if Our Lady’s Pantry could use any help from their Foundation,” says Bullaro. “I told her our old refrigerated truck needed lots of work. Susan was interested in helping us!” “We seek people out,” Bailyn said. “We want to bring money from New York to the Sun City Center area, where we have been living since 2014. We are embedded in this community. We don’t want anyone to go without food or anything else they might need.”
Community continued on page 6.
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SCC Patrol Volunteer of the Month
Debbie Riley joined the Patrol in Feb 2020 and volunteered 24 hours in April and 81 hours, year-to-date. In addition to driving, she recently was trained to dispatch as well. Debbie is on two teams and also drives/dispatches on an ‘as needed’ basis. Thanks for all your dedication and support to the Patrol, Debbie.
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August 2021
The News
Becoming a center of excellence is precisely the point. The surgeons at St. Joseph’s Hospital-South are experts in performing general, gynecologic, colorectal and urology robotic procedures using the da Vinci ® Surgical System. And we’re accredited as a Center of Excellence by the Surgical Review Corporation for practicing the gold standard of robotic surgery. This award distinguishes St. Joseph’s Hospital-South from other hospitals by showing that we meet nationally recognized standards and provide the highest quality of care to our patients. Additionally, we help keep our patients, team members and physicians safe by encouraging social distancing and using face masks in our facilities. Robotic surgery gives patients lots of benefits including shorter hospital stays, reduced blood loss and smaller incisions, which reduces the risk of infection. Plus, faster recovery times which means you can get back to your normal activities sooner. And that’s pretty excellent. Learn more: StJosephsSouthRobotics.org
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August 2021
The News
50th Anniversary
Community continued from page 4.
A joint 50th Anniversary Celebration was held June 12 at the Caloosa Golf and Country Club for Max And Betty Cook, and Bruno and Sharon Graziano. It was attended by family and friends from Missouri, New York, and Sun City Center.
Sun City Center Lions Club News
The Sun City Center Lions Club will be back up and running on a regular basis in September. Their meetings will be held at the United Methodist Church the second Monday of each month at 11:30 a.m. Lunch reservations are required. Cost is $10. Info: Harry or Maryanne Eberle at “maryanne. eberle@gmail.com” or telephone: 609-694-8235.
Valencia Lakes Giving Circle Donates to CAHT
Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news
30 Years of Service
Congratulations to James Cosgrove for 30 years of service with the SCC Security Patrol. Thank you for your support and dedication to the Patrol and our community.
SUMMER 2021
MERICAN NU
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Campaign Against Human Trafficking and Domestic Violence (CAHT) received over $4,000 plus a 50% matching funds from the Schulze Family Foundation from the 100 Who Care Valencia Lakes Giving Circle. “We are delighted to receive this much needed donation from such a generous, caring group in our community,” CAHT President L to R: CAHT President, Robbie Robbie Chaplin said, “The funds Chaplin, Giving Circle President will be used for our Safe Shelter Karen Corbin, CAHT Past President Program that immediately places Annie Garrison, CAHT Treasurer Dave Foran, Valencia Lakes CAHT women, men and families out sponsor, Melanie Watkins, and of harm’s way who are victims CAHT board member, Debbie of domestic violence or human Petrocelli. trafficking.”
of A.M.O.B . S . U. Bruce Fraser, President (center) and Don Murphy, VP Communications (third from L) of the Men’s Club of Sun City Center recently accepted a donation from the Sun City Center Charitable Foundation. Representing the SCCCF were, L-R, Board members Frank Reid, Walt Cawein, Jim Porrett, Paul Wheat, Nan Baytos and Patsie Ginley.
Classic American favorites with an Oyster Bar twist!
SCC Charitable Foundation Donates to Men’s Club
By Sally Reid Board members of the Sun City Center Charitable Foundation, Inc. recently presented a $1,000 check to the Men’s Club of Sun City Center in recognition of the many support services they provide. The funds for this grant originated from the Dr. Patricia A. Ginley Donor Advised Fund within the SCCCF.
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August 2021
The News
7
Military News MFST Hires Outreach and Financial Manager
MOAA Celebrates Independence Day With Patriotic Program
MOAA presented a moving and highly relevant program reminding members of how great our country truly is. First VP Eunice Paxtot (COL, USA ret) and 2nd VP Walt Cawein (Lt Col USAF ret) produced the highly engaging program. The program received high praise from members in attendance, even a recommendation that it be played once a year around the 4th of July to remind us of our many blessings as Americans. MOAA also recognized a number of attendees who were instrumental in making the MOAA-sponsored Memorial Day celebration such a wonderful success. More than 260 veterans from Sun City Center were honored in a ceremony to acknowledge their passing since the last time we were able to conduct the ceremony. The ceremony was conducted at the Trinity Baptist Church on Memorial Day with an overflow crowd filling the sanctuary and flowing into the adjacent fellowship hall to view the proceedings on closed circuit television. The two attached photos show the members who were awarded MOAA’s certificate of appreciation along with MOAA Immediate past president Benny Blackshire, who oversaw the production of the ceremony.
The Military Family Support Trust (MFST) has hired a new Outreach and Financial Manager to replace Jane Keegan, who has recently left the organization. Jane did a terrific job and MFST is sorry to lose her. She will be greatly missed. Targan Wehye-Jones is from Minneapolis, Minnesota. While in the United States Navy she served as a Weapons Specialist and trainer. While serving aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt she participated in two war campaigns, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her other duty stations include Sigonella, Sicily; Recruit Training Command Great Lakes; and Reserve duties in North Chicago, IL, and Norfolk, VA. A military spouse and business owner after her family’s last duty station in Jacksonville, FL, they now call Tampa home and enjoy the base, beach, and warm weather although she still misses the snow. MFST is a 501(c)(3) organization that supports through their grant programs military families, past and present. The beneficiaries include, but are not limited to: four year scholarships for high school seniors; JROTC Honors Program; Homeless Women Veterans; MFST Fund for Veterans Scholarship at the University of South Florida; Operation Warm Heart; Veteran Guide Dog; Southeastern Guide Dogs Paws for Patriots program; My Warriors Place; Operation Helping Hand and sponsoring ‘Guardians’ for the Honor Flight Support Program.
Do you Facebook?
Get “social” in Sun City Center. Share your favorite SCC pictures and news and view pictures from fun SCC events. “LIKE” the News of Sun City Center Facebook page at “www.facebook.com/NewsofSCC”.
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8
The News
Men’s Club Extends an Important Lifeline
By Bob Sanchez When Joan Gross crashed her golf cart into trash barrels at 10 p.m., that was the last straw for her daughter Ellen, who moved in with her mom, who is 86 now and has dementia, heart disease, and diabetes. They subscribed to Lifeline for $25 per month, and that has saved Mom’s life “more times than I can count,” Ellen says. “It’s a godsend.” She gave permission to use their names. Joan Gross could be any of us. As we age, we become increasingly aware of the dangers of falling, whether we are home or out and about. So it’s important to know about Lifeline, a critical community resource made possible thanks to the Men’s Club of Sun City Center. Put simply, if you’ve fallen and can’t get up, just press a button to reach the Lifeline response center immediately. They in turn contact the local emergency squad, the Hillsborough County fire department or the Sheriff’s office, depending on the situation. For two decades, the Men’s Club has helped make the Lifeline system available to residents of Sun City Center, including Kings Point, Freedom Plaza, Aston Gardens, Sun Towers, The Courtyards, Pacifica, and Cypress Creek Assisted Living.
Lifeline Administrator Nellie Brock explains Lifeline buttons.
Lifeline Administrator Nellie Brock says that in recent years “there have been an average of 600 plus incidents when our subscribers have pushed the button for assistance, or the fall detection feature has been activated.” An advantage that Lifeline offers and many subscribers appreciate, she says, “is the fact that we bring the equipment to
them at their home, show them how it works and answer any questions they may have. Also, if service is needed, we respond quickly. No need to package the equipment up and ship it back to the factory for repair or replacement. If a button or battery needs to be replaced, the Men’s Club does that at no charge to the subscriber.” “Folks must be pleased with the
August 2021
program based on the number of referrals we get from friends and neighbors,” she adds. That may be an understatement. “It’s an amazing service just to be able to press a button,” Ellen says. She pointedly credits the Men’s Club’s volunteers for their selfless service. The cost to subscribers ranges from $25-$40 per month, depending on the system. Harvey Berman, the Men’s Club Lifeline VP, says “we are always looking for volunteers” to help out only one day a month. The Men’s Club provides all necessary training on all equipment. For more information, visit the Men’s Club website, http:// sccmensclub.com and click on the Lifeline link. Nellie Brock and Julie Wickersham staff the Lifeline office at 1002 Cherry Hills Blvd.
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August 2021
The News
9
Our Lady’s Pantry Needs Grant Writers
Our Lady’s Pantry is in need of additional persons to write grants. Can you help? “Our donations are down,” says director Tom Bullaro, “but our needs are increasing. Pandemicrelated unemployment benefits are ending soon. And children are home during the summer, so families need even more food than had been true during the school year.” According to Feeding Tampa
Bay, in fact, many of our neighbors are not just food insecure, they are nutrition insecure, meaning that the availability and affordability of foods that promote well-being and prevent or treat disease, are not currently accessible to them. Without access, their long-term health hangs in the balance. Our Lady’s Pantry provides fresh fruits and vegetables and other nutrient-rich foods to our
clients every Saturday morning 7:30 – 10:30 a.m. Grant writers need not be professional writers or managers or have a background in journalism, communications, teaching, or public speaking. They simply need to answer questions the grantor has asked. We have current financial information at our fingertips to share — as well as intricate details about how many clients
our Pantry has helped. “Our current grant writers are happy to work closely with you to help you get started,” Bullaro says. “We can also share copies of previous grants until you get the hang of what to do. Applications must be submitted electronically, however, so you do need to be comfortable working on a computer. For info, email “tom@ourladyspantry.com”.
Shan Hise, Champion Volleyball Player
By Bob Monahan Senior Sports Writer Shan Hise is a world-class volleyball champion with nearly a hundred medals to show for his efforts. He came from a small town in Illinois named Ridgeway, population 1,000. His father put him right to work on the family farm, and there was no time to play sports. Shan must have been an exceptional student, graduating from high school at the age of fourteen. This was the time of the Korean War, and Shan enlisted in the army rather than be drafted. After a three-year stint in the service, he used the GI bill to earn a degree at the University of Illinois in accounting and used that degree in several positions with PPG Inc. He rose to the position of assistant controller
and retired after 32 years. Looking for mild winters, Shan and his wife Barbara explored Florida, first renting in Sun City Center then buying a house here in 1995. Shan immersed himself in the community playing volleyball, softball and occasionally working in a round of golf. He also became a deacon at the Trinity Baptist Church, and is known to all as a
kind, thoughtful friend. Shan is now approaching his 87th birthday. A year ago in May he had his hip replaced after two delays due to blood clots in his lungs. He rehabbed his hip walking up to a mile a few times per week. During the pandemic, Shan, a retired accountant, did between 50 to 60 tax returns, mostly for widows and people in his church as a non-paid provider. When volleyball reopened, Shan went right back to it, and
now is playing three mornings per week. The world senior championships held in Utah invited Shan to play in the championships in October this year, but Shan feels he will probably decline due to there only being three teams in the 80 year old bracket nationwide for a four day tournament. Look for Shan on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings at the Sun City Center volleyball court to witness a world champion in action.
HOLE IN ONE Accomplished By: Walt Towner
Walt Towner scored a hole in one on June 29 at Scepter Golf Club, Ibis #6 (114 yards) using a 9-iron. Witnessed by Carl Nunn.
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August 2021
The News
own is t d n t u o
News? he
Where Ar
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r e t n e C y t i C
The News of
Sun
Terry & Brad Morton celebrated the 4th of July at home with their copy of The News.
Karen Hart visited Endwell, New York, with her copy of The News.
Dave and Barbara Wilkie took their copy of The News on a tour of several National Parks. They visited Mesa Verde, Monument Valley, Four Corners, Hovenweep, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonland, and Arches.
Cathy and Mike Lauro enjoyed the Candlelight Christmas at Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina with their copy of The News.
Where Around Town Is The News? For years now, our readers have told us one of their favorite features
is our “Where in the World” photos, where you take The News with you on your travel excursions and snap a photo someplace fun and far away. Over the past year or so, we haven’t had the opportunity to take The News all that “far and wide,” so we wanted to try something a little different that’s still a lot of fun. While we all hope to be globetrotting again very soon, over this summer, we would like to invite all of you to take The News with you on your local travels: around town, on day trips, and anyplace you like. Send in your shots of smiling faces holding The News, and we’ll print them. To inspire you, our News team has a challenge for all of our readers. They have carried The News and invited folks around town to snap a photo. In each picture, we identify the person, but it’s up to YOU to identify the place. Send in your guesses, as well as your “Where Around Town” photos to “editor@soco.news.” Looking forward to hearing from you soon!.
The Men's Club of SCC Offers Peace of Mind!
TRAVEL IS BACK! Call us for all your travel needs! Cruises, Air, Hotel, Motorcoach We can redeem your Future Travel Credits too!
At Affordable Prices! Have you ever wondered what would happen if you lived alone and there was an emergency? Or do you like to take your dog for a walk but are concerned about falling and no one being there to assist you? For Greater SCC residents who think they need a medical alert button and don't believe they can afford it, the Men's Club of Sun City Center would like for you to contact our office. Because the Men's Club is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit club, we offer the Philips Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) at a more competitive rate than what Philips charges at the national level. Our pricing is comparable to other systems in the market as well – just compare systems with similar capabilities. Installation and all service calls are completed by Men's Club volunteers at no charge to the Subscriber. The Men's Club was formed in the early 1960's. In 1991, the Men's Club decided to offer Philips Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) to residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point with no annual contract. The PERS offering began with the purchase of four units with installation provided by Men's Club volunteers. This offering continues today with multiple systems from which to choose - including one that will work anywhere in the U.S., a dedicated office staff, and over 25 trained Men's Club volunteers who provide personable and knowledgeable service for our Subscribers. Get prompt caring assistance at the push of a button, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Call the Men’s Club
813-633-7091
or stop by our office 1002 Cherry Hills Drive,SCC
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TRAVEL August 2021
The News
11
Palatka – A Deliberate Detour
By Kai Rambow Nestled peacefully along the St. Johns River is Palatka. This historic Florida town is off the beaten path, but not too far. It is a deliberate detour with rewarding scenic surprises. Palatka is known for its murals, and they are quite impressive. Most who drive through Palatka, never see the murals because they are located one street over from the main artery. Here’s a great way to tackle the murals. Park at the Hampton Inn by the river. Go inside and ask for a mural map. If you mention this article, I’ll deny I ever steered you with these instructions. The map not only shows you where the murals are located, but gives a brief explanation of each one. Some of the murals reflect how Palatka was once a popular destination with swanky hotels and a total of over 6,000 rooms. Babe Ruth even visited the town. One mural depicts an expedition discovering a Native village located here in 1774. Another shows the train arriving a little over 100 years later. Annie Oakley brought her
show here, and other shows such as high wire acts followed. Musicians from the area made it big during the Jazz Age, and they returned bringing top musical shows to the town. As you explore the murals, you may also get a feel for the town’s heyday as the county seat. We’re so used to modern Florida, it’s nice to see some history of the state’s early years. It is an interesting way to catch some art, some history and a feel for the past. Tips for a Great Trip When to Go: I do not recommend this as a stand alone trip. This can be a great addition to any road trip especially if you’re heading to St. Augustine or farther north. You could also make the detour from a road trip heading up I-75. It will take about one hour from each side. You could do this as a short detour or you might want to stay overnight at the Hampton Inn by the river. One reader talked with me before this article came out and started their road trip one day early to have a short drive
and activity on day one. This is a very scenic and quiet spot and you can easily take short walks along the river. Unfortunately I cannot recommend any restaurants as I ate before reaching the town. When to Walk: Recommend after sunrise or before sunset. You’ll have plenty of light to see the murals and can beat the heat. You can also beat the
sun because you’re sure to find shade on one side of the street. The total distance is 10 short, city blocks. It was an easy walk to the end and back allowing me to resee those murals that interested me most. Do remember your sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes and a hat, if desired. A bottle of water might be a good addition.
A remembrance of when the St. Johns river was an active transportation route, circa 1909.
A mural depicting the “discovery” of Palatka. It’s always interesting to note a discovery that involves people already living there.
The Jazz Age is captured here, along with famous musicians of the period.
Much of Florida’s early expansion was due to the railroad. It was a big deal as reflected in this mural.
The annual cattle drive, also a big part of Florida’s heritage.
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August 2021
The News
Disney Alert
By Kai Rambow As we emerge from the pandemic, family and friends may be traveling to visit you. Many may want to visit Disney. There are a few things to be aware of before you buy those tickets. Disney is still regulating the number of people visiting their parks. The result during busy periods: you may not be able to go. It used to be that you could drive to Disney, get to the park entrance, buy a ticket and enjoy. Now you need to buy a ticket in advance, then reserve the day you want, before ever heading to the park. If you have family or friends who really want to visit Disney, their best bet may be to book at a Disney hotel and buy park tickets. They should be able to make reservations 60 days in advance. If your family or friends are staying with you, they can only get park reservations seven days in advance. This information is all available on Disney’s website. Go there and check their current ticket/reservation program before you make your plans. Information subject to change after press time: “disneyworld. disney.go.com”.
Two of several pieces of the glass show presented in the conservatory and by the koi pond.
Two Shows at Selby Gardens
By Kai Rambow Normally we share when Selby Gardens has a great show to go with your admission. In a delightful surprise, if you visit Selby Gardens, you can experience two shows. The first is a glass show. This is the fourth iteration and one of the newest additions to Selby’s regular shows. There are some wonderful pieces in the conservatory and at the koi pond. The second is a specially curated show highlighting the work of African-American artists in Florida. “We Dream a World” is presented in the Payne Mansion. Be sure to get the small guide for brief explanations on the art work and the significance of the works. Both shows run until September 26, and of course, you can walk the grounds.
Interested In Singing Barbershop?
Par For The Chorus is looking for folks who love to sing. PFTC is currently preparing for our next performance in Sun City Center, early next year in March. We practice once per week, Tuesday 12:30-2:30, at Redeemer Lutheran Church and we’d love to have you join us. We provide music and training, as well as logo shirts for singing our gigs. Any person, male or female, can join us in song. We’d love to see you. Call Joe Epstein, 575-361-5325, or just stop by Redeemer Lutheran on Tuesday at 12:30.
Kings Point Italian Club Welcome Back Celebration
Monday, October 11 at 4:30 p.m. Music by: Good Stuff Food provided by Banquet Masters. Menu: Roast pork loin with rosemary and shallots, chicken marsala with mushroom sauce, stuffed shells, Pomodoro vegetables, oven roasted potatoes, salad bar, rolls and butter, chef's selected desserts with coffee, tea, soda. BYOB. Members: $25, guests: $28. Tickets on sale October 6 and 7 from 9:30 to noon in the KP North Clubhouse Lobby. Tickets can only be purchased on these dates. Info: May Fleming 813-419-4790 or John Saffran 262-758-2000, www.kpitalianclub.com.
News of Freedom Plaza
By Peggy Burgess Golf courses and gators are “givens” on the outdoor scene in Florida, but Freedom Plaza has added yet another “g” word to its own outside vistas. That word is “gazebos” of which there are now two on the premises, the newer one just completed in June. The construction and popularity of these types of structures dates back to the Egyptian and Persian empires. The name “gazebo” was coined in the 18th Century by English architects William and John Halfpenny, from the word “gaze” plus the Latin suffix “ebo” meaning “I shall”. Freedom Plaza Gazebo #1 was built when the outdoor sports complex fronting the townhouse apartments of Golf View Terrace was expanded more than a decade ago. It provides a comfortable vantage point to view a tennis, bocce ball or pickleball match, or to cheer on horseshoes and shuffleboard players. Recently renovated, now with two adjacent grills plus a picnic table, it is a convenient place for residents to enjoy cookouts and alfresco dining. Freedom Plaza Gazebo #2, close to the main building,
Refreshment time at the Golf View Terrace gazebo for Freedom Plaza residents L to R: Benny & Janet Blackshire and Dianna & Mal Parrish.
has a lakeside view. It is totally screened in, making it an inviting spot during love bug season and deterring flying pests year-round. Accessibility is made easy by a paved path leading from the nearby roadway. Inside the structure a peripheral bench provides seating, with small, lightweight cocktail tables at hand. As much as Freedom Plaza residents appreciate their many indoor activities and amenities, they also relish that little taste of “the great outdoors” furnished by their great little gazebos.
FAITH &service Mary & Martha House Receives Grant
Mary & Martha House would like to thank the Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center for their generous grant of $7,500. This funding allowed Mary & Martha House to purchase all new appliances for the newly rebuilt Emergency Shelter “Magnolia House”. Mary & Martha House is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter, transitional housing, and support services to victims of domestic violence and homeless women and children throughout Hillsborough County. For more information, call Mary & Martha House at 813-645-7874.
St. Andrew Presbyterian Church Pizza & Movie Night
“Pizza & a Movie Night” will resume every third Thursday at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church (1239 Del Webb Blvd. W.) starting at 5 p.m. followed by a movie. The next “Pizza & a Movie Night” will be August 19. The movie will be “Queen Bees” starring Ellen Burstyn, James Caan, Ann-Margaret, and Jane Curtin. You will love this heartwarming comedy. Tickets are on sale at the church office Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each week. The $7 ticket will provide you with all the pizza you can eat, a piece of homemade cake, coffee or soda, and a great movie. Info: 813634-1252.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry Receives Grant
Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry received a $10,000 grant from the Interfaith Social Action Council. The Food Pantry provides wholesome food to families of the area with food insecurities. Pictured from left to right are Nick Caleca, ISAC Grant Chair; Pat McAdams, Communications for the Pantry; and Tom Bullaro, CoDirector of the Pantry.
August 2021
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Time is Brain. Time is Life. Manatee Memorial Hospital is Saving Both.
Strokes require immediate attention, and the Stroke Alert Team from the Emergency Care Center and the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center at Manatee Memorial Hospital, rapidly respond to evaluate and treat all stroke emergencies 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We offer several advanced stroke treatments in our Interventional Radiology Suite including endovascular therapy (mechanical thrombectomy) to remove large blood clots, aneurysms treatment, or carotid interventions to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels that are associated with stroke. A Full Continuum of Care At the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center at Manatee Memorial Hospital, our team-based approach allows for streamlined treatment and services for stroke patients, including: • Prevention and intervention • Education • Active management of strokes • Rehabilitation
“Manatee Memorial Hospital had the expertise to remove the clot. They literally saved my life.” -Jane Caruso, Stroke Patient
For more information about the Stroke and Cerebrovascular Center, call Christine Gonzalez, RN, CNRN, Comprehensive Stroke Program Coordinator, at 941-812-9566.
Remember: If you or a loved one experience any signs of a stroke, call 911 immediately! 206 Second Street East Bradenton, FL 34208 manateememorial.com
A Member of the Manatee Healthcare System
Get social with us
Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. For language assistance, disability accommodations and the non-discrimination notice, visit our website. 210223-1178 7/21
14
BOOK REVIEW By Andrea L.T. Peterson I can’t count how many times, when we observe someone whose life is all ease and leisure, someone says, “it’s a dog’s life!” I’ve been thinking. For dogs abandoned and abused, dogs used as bait dogs or fighting dogs, life is anything but ease and leisure. But those aren’t the dogs I’m thinking of right now. I’m thinking of the pampered pets, the hand-fed spoiled pets. Those are the dogs people are talking about when they say, “It’s a dog’s life.” But that’s a debate for another time. Dogs give more than they get unconditional, never ending love and unflinching, unfettered loyalty. And so, I’m thinking if people are living “a dog’s life,” shouldn’t they be exemplars of unconditional love and unflinching loyalty? W. Bruce Cameron’s newest novel, A Dog’s Courage, actually illustrates both sides of a dog’s life. We met Bella and her people Lucas and Olivia and her bobcat friend Big Kitten in A Dog’s Way Home (companion to A Dog’s Purpose and Dog’s Journey). In this latest volume, Bella and her people are on vacation in the mountains when warnings of raging fires force hikers in the mountains and
August 2021
The News
It’s a Dog’s Life - Or Is It?
residents in the nearby towns to evacuate. Lucas is a newlyminted doctor and Olivia is committed to animal welfare so when the fire heads for the town, the duo are torn between evacuating and protecting the shelter full of abandoned animals. Of course, they and Bella stay behind. The story is told from the viewpoint of Bella as she tries to make sense of everything going on around her. The story is a great tale of love, loyalty, and commitment. Cameron crawls right into the mind of the dog, Bella, and Bella tells a wonderful story. When she and her people get separated and Bella ends up once again lost in the wilderness (as she was in the earlier book), she encounters her friend Big Kitten who is now a big cat with two kittens as well as dangers from the fires, mudslides, and predators. She’s torn between loyalty to her people and loyalty to Big Kitten and her two helpless kittens. What a treat it was to have a chance to interview Cameron! After reading all of his books I found myself wondering about his own childhood and the dogs he may or may not have had. He told me the story of his first
dog. He said he was “about eight years old, the same age as Ethan was when he met Bailey in A Dog’s Purpose. My dad opened the backyard gate and we ran to each other like we’d been separated at birth!” That was Cammie, a lab puppy. When Cameron was around 12, his parents, having decided that they “liked having dogs better than having children”, got another lab. Then, there was a third dog. The three dogs, Bruce and his two siblings were “a pack.” But his childhood with dogs is only part of the inspiration for his books. When a friend of his told him she’d never get another dog because the heartbreak of losing her beloved pup was just too difficult, he decided to make up a little story about a reincarnated dog to drive home the fact that “you can have the same love with another dog as you had with your first dog,” He even began to wonder if your beloved dog could come back in the body of another puppy! That little story eventually became A Dog’s Purpose. If you’re wondering, as I was, if that original little story made an impact on his friend, I asked him if she ever got another dog and how it went, and he told
me, “Yes, she did… “I should tell you,” he added, “that she liked the story so much she married me! So, my dog Tucker is also her dog Tucker!” Now THAT’S a real happy ending story! Of dogs and our relationship to them, he said, “We have seized control of their destinies.” We breed them, we’ve changed their DNA creating new breeds or modifying them to certain standards. “They can’t live without us” and, I would add, we can’t live without them. “We’re responsible for them,” And while we are, therefore, obligated to care for them, “We should want to care for them because they’re so wonderful.” A Dog’s Courage is, without a doubt, the “Incredible Journey” of this millennium! These are great books (and movies). Bella is a great storyteller and Cameron does a pretty good job, too. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry, and you won’t be able to put any of these books down.
Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news
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August 2021
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PERFORMING
NOTICE: Each community and club in Sun City Center and Kings Point has specific rules about membership and attendance. Unless specifically stated or posted, most venues, meetings and events hosted on the Community Association campus and in Kings Point require attendees to bring their SCC CA or KP ID or come with a resident member. When in doubt, contact the club in question - not the venue or association - prior to arrival. Thanks.
World Class Concert Pianist Returning To SCC
The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W., welcomes back Alan Curtis Tripp for a 7 p.m. concert in the church’s sanctuary Friday, August 6, 2021. Alan Curtis Tripp is an astonishingly gifted pianist, who also composes and arranges music. A donation of just $10 is requested at the door on the night of the concert. Info: www.umcscc.org.
Moonglow Dance Club
Moonglow Dance Club invites all SCC Community Association and Freedom Plaza members, and Kings Point 2021 Gold Card holders to join us on Thursday, August 26 from 7-9 p.m. at Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center. Thor Stevens will provide sax, keyboard, and vocal music. Singles tables are available. Attire is smart casual (no shorts). BYOB, snacks, ice, cups, etc. 2020 and 2021 Moonglow Members are free. Other attendees will pay $6 at the door. Bring your Community ID or a photo of it. CDC guidelines followed. Limited to 14 tables. Masks optional. Info: “gail3357@gmail.com” or 813-633-1297.
Kings Point Mixed Chorus is Back
The Kings Point Mixed Chorus will resume rehearsals for their upcoming Holiday Concert 2021“Joyful Sounds Of The Season.” Signup and rehearsals will begin on Monday, September 13, 2021 in the East/West social room in the North Clubhouse. Registration at 12:30, rehearsal from 1-3 p.m. every Monday afternoon. Bring water to wet your whistle and maybe a sweater if air conditioning should bother you. Membership dues remain at $20 per season. Cutoff date for joining is September 27. Because of venue constraints, membership is limited to the first 70 people to sign up. No audition is necessary. We welcome any soprano, alto, bass, or tenor who can match a pitch and carry a tune. If you are not a Kings Point resident or member of the Sun City Center CA, you are invited to join us, however, Kings Point management is currently requiring A $2.50 guest fee whenever you attend. Info: contact Stephanie Casey at “kpchorus.org” or 813634-4891 or “oldgolfers59@yahoo.com”.
By Renee Bray, SCCCA Entertainment Director I feel the excitement in the air! Folks are really ready to get out and have some fun. If you haven’t picked up a brochure with complete information about the Entertainment Season line up, you can do so at the Atrium Kiosk off N. Course Drive or at the Community Association Office at 1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd. There will not be a mailing to prior season ticket holders this season. Things will be a bit different as we ease back into normal Renee Bray operations following a cancelled season due to COVID, including limited seating capacity, and limit of sales to SCCCA members and Kings Point only. These changes are being made to ensure the safety of our members. The series ticket sales begin October 1 for SCCCA members and October 22 for Kings Point members at the Atrium kiosk on N. Course Drive. You must present your SCCCA badge or KP badge to purchase tickets. No “season” tickets will be available. All shows will be sold individually. Currently, we are preparing for two pre-season shows. They include a BYOB Comedy Cabaret on October 6 featuring Glen Foster and Carl Guerra, who will be full of laughs, and a dance on October 29, featuring Act III. Get ready to get down to Motown, soul, disco and R&B. Information about these two shows will be featured in the September edition of the News of Sun City Center and on the Entertainment Bulletin Board at the kiosk. The Atrium ticket kiosk opens on September 1 for SCCCA members and September 22 for KP for the sale of these two pre-season shows.
Donation to Pelican Players
A donation to honor their founding members Ed Brown, Barbara Brtva & Lew Resseguie has been made by the Performing Arts Club of SCC to the Pelican Players Community Theater. To “Entertain, Enrich & Educate” was the mission of the PAC of SCC, and the Pelican Players, through their commitment to the Arts, exemplify that mission.
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Seated: Ed Brown presenting check to Rick Swenson, President of Pelican Players. Standing: (PAC board members) Barbara Brtva & Diane LeFrancois (widow of Lew Resseguie).
New Season Beginning For The Women’s Chorus
The Women’s Chorus is thrilled to begin singing together again. The new fall season will feature impressive arrangements sung by inspired women. Under the exceptional leadership of Director, Jeff Jordan, the chorus has performed to standing-room-only audiences for several years. Talented accompanist, Valerie Southwell, is returning and is welcomed back. This group is currently seeking new members. Do you love to sing, have some background in reading music, appreciate four-part harmony, and enjoy the challenge of learning new music? If so, this is the chorus for you. You are invited to meet our director for an informal audition at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, September 1 at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Webb Blvd. W. in Sun City Center. No preparation is required for this relaxed tryout. Membership is open to anyone in SCC or the surrounding communities. Registration for the fall season is scheduled at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center on Wednesday, September 8 at 9:15 a.m. with the first rehearsal following from 10 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Rehearsals continue weekly on Wednesday mornings. This season concludes with two holiday concerts that are free and open to the public. Info: Jayann Michael at 813-645-2472.
Get “social” in Sun City Center. Share your favorite SCC pictures and news and view pictures from fun SCC events. “LIKE” the News of Sun City Center Facebook page at “www.facebook.com/ NewsofSCC”.
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Adogable Pets Pet Salon & Spa
August 2021
The News To show our support Adogable Pets is offering Law Enforcement & 1st Responders a 15% discount on all Grooming services for your civilian pets. K-9 Officers Grooming services are 100% on us! In lieu of our services, Officers are welcome to use our facility to bathe their own police dog ! For an appointment call 813-419-4972
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Sun City Center Photo Club Announces Winners
On Tuesday, June 8, club photographers submitted images to be judged by expert, Ken Reuben. Two of our photographers received perfect scores. In the Digital Color category, at the Master Level, Harold Sisken received three gold awards for “About to Go Over,” “Early Morning in Death Valley,” and “The Helpless Cowboy.” At the Advanced Level, Ann Jacques received a gold award with a perfect score for “Blushing Thistle.” Barbara Klimczak received a silver award for “Pleasing Symmetry.” At the Intermediate Level, Stan Lipski received two silver awards for “A-1287” and “Morning Stretch.” In the Unassigned category, Tom Alcumbrack received a gold award for “Grazing in The Morning Mist.” Nick Fader received a silver for “Spreading My Wings.” In the Monochrome Digital category, at the Master Level, Christina Brittain received a gold award for “Broken Dreams.” Two photographers tied for second place. Receiving silver were Christina Brittain with “Hopes and Dreams” and Pat Jones with “Soft Landing.” At
the Intermediate Level, Sherry Kalczynski received a gold award for “Peace.” Allen Maser received the silver for “Old And New.” In the Digital Creative category, at the Master level, Pat Jones received a gold award for “Mystic Mask!” Rolf Sulzberger received the silver for “Close Up View.” At the Intermediate level,” Kathy Griffith received the silver for “Pollinating Artistic Beauty.” At the Unassigned Level, Tom Alcumbrack received a
gold award for “Tribute To 1st Responders.” In the Digital Documentary category, Joe Sclafani received a gold award for “One Cool Girl.” He also received a silver for “Sidewalk Stand.” In the Monochrome Print Category, at the Advanced Level, Barbara Klimczak received a perfect score for “Cuban Cutie.” Madlyn Blom received the silver for “Georgia Summer Eve.” At the Intermediate Level, Joe Sclafani received a gold award for “Still Say Fumble” and also
Joe Sclafani received a gold award for “One Cool Girl.”
received the silver for “Heron Wading.” In the Print Documentary category, at the Intermediate Level, Joe Sclafani received a silver for “Fishermen.” In the Creative Print category at the Master Level, Christina Brittain received a perfect score for “Most Perfect Form” and took second place with “The Kindest Eyes” and “Song of Sorrow.” Congratulations to all our club winners! For more information about our club, visit www. photoclubscc.com.
Christina Brittain received a gold award for “Broken Dreams.”
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August 2021
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Answers to Puzzles on Pages 22 and 23
Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news
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The News
Hungry for Something New? Different?
By Andrea L.T. Peterson As local legend goes, “A cyclone blew seven tikis onto the banks of the Alafia River in 2016,” inspiring the Polynesian “flavors and flair” of Riverview’s Tiki Docks Bar & Grill located at 10708 Palmetto St. (visible from U.S. Hwy 301, just before crossing the Alafia River from the south). While you can easily pass the turn off, it is considerably more difficult to miss the building itself—emblazoned with colorful tikis overlooking the river itself. The setting, the exotic décor,
ta Jus nute mi om 20 e fr ter n iv dr y Ce t Ci Sun
August 2021
are as inspired as the menu which includes a raw bar, salads, sandwiches (starting at $11), an assortment of seafood dishes (from $16), and steak ($24) for the landlubbers like myself as well as a kids’ menu. Reservations are probably a good idea for a large group. The bar itself is well stocked, and there’s live music. Good food, ambience, an idyllic setting with ample outdoor seating and easy social-distancing—perfect for that special occasion.
Join Sun City Center Resident Pastor Mac Clements at 10:30 this Sunday Morning 9912 Indiana Street Gibsonton, FL
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August 2021
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20
south County Events
By Debbie Caneen South County Events is provided by Debbie Caneen, Director of Admissions, Sun Towers from items submitted for publication. To submit events for future publications, send them by the 15th of the prior month. Debbie also publishes Ads and Events, a weekly e-mail containing information about what’s happening in 33573. Your event will also appear in the weekly Ads and Events e-mail and on the website www.SCCAdsAndEvents.com. Send all events by e-mail to sccfreeads@tampabay.rr.com. You only need to submit your Event one time each month for it to appear in both The News of Kings Point and SCC Ads and Events. SPECIAL EVENTS Please include all basic information, especially Price (or list it’s Free) and Contact Information (phone, e-mail, or website). Six lines maximum. Send to: sccfreeads@tampabay.rr.com. As soon as space permits, we will put it in the weekly e-mail and it will run until event date passes. You do not need to submit it again. P L E A S E N O T E : Th is a r e a is f or SPECIAL EVENTS only. WEEKLY, MONTHLY, or ONGOING EVENTS are listed on our website under WEEKLY & MONTHLY MEETINGS at www.SCCAdsAndEvents.com which is updated every weekend.
SUN. AUG 1 - FALL GRANT CYCLE OPENS The Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center is pleased to announce we will begin accepting Grant Applications for our Fall Grant Cycle. Applications may be submitted beginning August 1 through September 15. All information on the grants can be found at our website (www. interfaithcouncilofsuncitycenter. com), including the application forms and instructions. THU. AUG 5, 12, 19, 26 - THE LIFE CHALLENGES SUPPORT GROUP IS BACK 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the Theater at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center. Are you struggling with loneliness, anxiety, depression, grief, loss or life changes? Then this group is for you. Masks and social distancing required. Temperature checks performed upon entrance to Sun Towers.
August 2021
The News Questions? Call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990. FRI. AUG 13 - LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community 101 Trinity Lakes Drive. Do you wonder how others with Low Vision advance through their day? Do they receive care from outside sources? What adaptive vision devices successfully assist them? Each need is different but if we gather to share our resources, we all benefit! Attend this support group where challenges are met with resources and where members inspire others with their successes. If you have low vision, then this meeting is for you! Free valet parking available at entrance. Info call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990. SAT. AUG 14 - LA LUCHA AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Location: Firehouse Cultural Center. La Lucha is a Tampa Bay based trio of three best friends from three different parts of the world: Colombia, Mexico, and the United States. Their repertoire is a diverse mixture of Latin-inspired rhythms with jazz standards, twisted arrangements of pop songs, and original compositions. Call in for tickets: 813-645-7651. Ticket Prices: $23 members, $28 future members. MON. AUG 16 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP OF SUN CITY CENTER 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center in the theater. This meeting will concentrate on the importance of daily exercises to improve functional movement to complete all basic activities of daily living from the perspective of occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy. If you have Parkinson’s, or are caring for someone with this disease, be sure to attend! Complimentary valet parking available at entrance. For additional info, call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990. THU. AUG 19 - GRIEFSHARE - 13 WEEK GRIEF RECOVERY SUPPORT GROUP 10:00 a.m. hosted by Trinity Baptist Church of Sun City Center, 702 W Del Webb Blvd., Sun City Center. GriefShare is a special weekly support group designed to help you rebuild your life. Individuals dealing with the grief and sense of loss following the death
of a loved one are invited to attend. Each session features video presentations designed to encourage discussion in small group settings. Advanced signups are not required. Those wanting more information may call the church office at 813634-4228 or go online at www. griefshare.org. THU. AUG 19 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon in our Outpatient Therapy Department at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center. Did you know one in three adults age 65 and older falls each year? Are you at risk? Our therapists at Sun Towers Retirement Community are on a quest to reduce the risk of falls BEFORE
they happen. Have your fall risk screened at no cost to you! Schedule your appointment today! Call Debbie at 813-8922990. This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. SAT. AUG 21 - COMEDY NIGHT: JEFF GERBINO AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Location: Firehouse Cultural Center. Headliner Jeff Gerbino has been named by The Hollywood Reporter as one of America’s Top Ten new comics in their annual Comedy Issue. Call in for tickets: 813-645-7651. Tickets: $23 members $28 future members. All reservations are in advance. Call for tickets: 813645-7651.
SunTowers Retirement
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813-634-3347 101 Trinity Lakes Drive · Sun City Center, FL 33573 www.SunTowersRetirement.com
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MARY & MARTHA HOUSE Fashion and Home Goods Shop and Make a Difference! New Store Hours
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Clothing and Accessories, Housewares, Furniture, Home Decor, and so much more! You can help to sustain our programs by shopping with us and by donating your gently used items.
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Love continued from page 1. you can visit their website: “owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife. com”. Should you encounter an injured or abandoned bird/animal call the Florida emergency number at
888.404.3922. They will know where an animal should go. While Owl’s Nest covers a wide variety of animals, there are specialists such as raptor and sea life centers.
This fawn, only arrived the morning I visited, hungrily inhaled her bottle. Several fawns are successfully rescued and returned to the wild every year.
Nitro, a silver fox, was abandoned by someone and found emaciated at a month old. The species is not native to Florida, and so could not be returned to the wild. He is shown to school children, so they can learn more about animals.
This blue jay is healing from a broken wing and an infected eye. Handling and helping animals heal requires a great deal of expertise.
YOU’VE ALWAYS TAKEN CARE OF YOUR FAMILY. This fox squirrel, an endangered species, is growing quickly under the expert care at Owl’s Nest Sanctuary. Fox squirrels are the largest tree squirrels in North America. This baby is already the size of many other squirrel species.
Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news
Organizing your funeral in advance is the most loving gift you can leave your family. We can help you make your final wishes known, so your family doesn’t have to guess later. When the time comes, your family will be relieved knowing they are remembering you just as you wanted and didn’t have to make rushed decisions while grieving. They will also find comfort knowing you’re still protecting them, even when you’re gone. Call us today and we’ll take care of you and your family.
1851 Rickenbacker Dr., Sun City Center 33573 813-634-9900 SunCityCenterFuneralHome.com
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August 2021
The News SOLUTIONS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 17
August 2021
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August 2021
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