We were fortunate to come out relatively unscathed from Tropical Storm Debby. While we did experience some debris and downed trees on the closed golf courses, the main roadways and common areas were cleared quickly. Despite the significant rainfall in just 48 hours, most of the flooding subsided within 24 hours. This event served as an excellent test for our stormwater infrastructure, which performed well under the circumstances. However, we must remain vigilant and prepared, as we cannot predict what the next storm may bring.
Two areas, Tremont and Princeton, experienced flooding that persisted beyond 24 hours due to a clogged weir on the open golf course. Our drainage engineer quickly identified the issue, and without hesitation, he and our field manager sprang into action. They literally jumped into the pond, swam out to the weir, and began clearing the drain.
One concern that arose during Debby was the rising water in Cypress Creek, which came within 2 feet of our vehicle bridge. We are actively working with the county and our engineers
At the recent Master Association board meeting on August 14th, residents were treated to an informative presentation by Rob Upthegrove and Julie Harter, seasoned alligator trappers who have been serving Sun City for over 30 years. Their presentation provided valuable insights into the role of alligators in Florida’s ecosystem and practical advice for residents on how to handle encounters with these ancient reptiles.
Julie began by explaining their role as nuisance alligator trappers for the state of Florida. While anyone can report a nuisance alligator to the state, residents of Kings Point (KP) are advised to contact the Master Association during business hours or Vesta’s security team after hours. She emphasized that if an alligator is spotted, it’s often best to give it a few days before calling it in, as many alligators are simply passing through and will move away on their own.
Rob detailed the process of relocating alligators, particularly those under four feet in length. These smaller alligators are often moved to remote locations, as they have a strong homing instinct and will return if not relocated far enough away. In Kings Point, relocated alligators are typically taken to a creek that leads into the Alafia River. He also noted a change in regulations allowing larger alligators to be moved to zoos or animal parks, such
Hurricane Season Reminder: Stay Prepared and Plan for the Future
to address issues with the creek, including clearing obstructions to ensure the water can flow properly without hindrance.
One reason we fared so well was due to the Master Association’s proactive measures, including signing storm agreements with our landscaper and drainage engineer, guaranteeing us priority service after the storm. Because of these agreements, they were able to respond quickly, clearing roads and assessing flooding with efficiency.
Looking ahead, our Disaster Planning Committee has already met to discuss Debby—what went right and where improvements can be made. The committee is committed to strengthening our overall disaster plan. They
are currently testing the Starlink satellite system, which could provide temporary internet access to residents if cell and internet services are disrupted. Additionally, a new radio tower is expected to be installed this month, enhancing the disaster radio program’s reach and providing a separate channel for management and vendors.
Plans are also underway to implement an Amber alertstyle notification system to keep residents informed during emergencies. They will continue educational e-blasts to ensure everyone is equipped with the knowledge needed to stay safe. As a community with portions in a flood zone, it’s crucial to know your evacuation zone. You can find your zone on the Hillsborough
as Gatorland or Gatorama, rather than being destroyed.
A key point of the presentation was the danger of feeding alligators. Rob and Julie stressed that feeding alligators is not only illegal, with fines up to $5,000, but it also causes them to lose their natural fear of humans and associate people with food. This can lead to dangerous situations where alligators become more aggressive and frequent areas populated by humans. The Master Association’s General Manager echoed this concern, urging residents to report anyone feeding alligators to the Master Association for further investigation. Violators will be reported to Florida Fish and Wildlife for enforcement.
Kings Point is designated as a Targeted Harvest Area (THA),
meaning the Master Association holds a permit allowing them to contact trappers directly without first involving the state.
Rob emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance in the ecosystem, especially as Florida’s rapid development continues to encroach on natural alligator habitats, forcing these creatures into closer contact with human populations.
Rob also offered practical safety tips, advising residents to keep pets, particularly dogs, at least six feet away from water, as dogs are natural prey for alligators. He explained the speed and strength of these animals, cautioning that even large alligators can move quickly enough to pose a serious threat.
The presentation covered
County website at hcfl.gov. If an evacuation order is issued, please take it seriously and evacuate promptly. Emergency and aid services may not be able to reach you if you stay behind.
We are still in hurricane season, which runs through the end of November, with the peak occurring between mid-August and late October, according to FEMA. We are upon that peak now, so please continue to be prepared.
The most important decision you’ll need to make during a storm is whether to stay or go. If you stay, ensure you have enough food, water, and supplies to last for several days. If you choose to leave, do so early to avoid traffic jams, and ensure you know where you’re going—whether to family, friends, or a pre-booked hotel, as accommodations fill up quickly during an evacuation.
Let’s not become complacent after Debby. Although our stormwater systems held up this time, the next storm could bring different challenges. Staying prepared and informed is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones during hurricane season.
fascinating facts about alligators, including their long history in Florida, their physical characteristics, and their role in the ecosystem. Alligators, which have been around for 200 million years, are crucial for maintaining water quality by controlling the populations of fish and other animals. Despite their fearsome reputation, American alligators generally do not view humans as prey, and incidents usually occur when alligators have been fed by people and lost their natural fear.
The presentation concluded with a discussion of the annual alligator hunt, which began on August 15th. This event, regulated by the Florida Wildlife Commission, helps control the alligator population and funds conservation efforts through the sale of hunting permits. Rob and Julie emphasized the importance of responsible management to ensure that alligators remain a thriving part of Florida’s unique ecosystem.
Residents left the meeting with a better understanding of how to coexist safely with these remarkable creatures and the importance of alligators to Florida’s environment.
Q How would I know when my pet is sick enough to seek immediate care?
A Knowing when a pet is sick enough to seek urgent or immediate veterinary care is not easy. .
Behavior is often a first clue. Are they eating, drinking and eliminating normally?
Vomiting and diarrhea are obvious causes for concerns, but many causes of diarrhea are not as serious as vomiting. Cats are sometimes difficult to tell because they often hide their discomfort or sickness until it has become serious. Furthermore, weight loss can be so slow that it goes unnoticed until it has become critical—especially in heavily furred pets. I recommend weighing them periodically. Very large dogs require a walk-on scale and very small dogs or cats need to be weighed on baby scale. For the smaller pets, I recommend a baby scale for home use. Used scales are fine. For most pets it does not matter if the weight is not the same as the veterinarian’s scale because you are looking for trends.
Your pet may recover uneventfully,
Respecting Safety Precautions
We want to remind all residents about the importance of respecting cones and barricades that you may encounter around our community. These markers are put in place for your safety and protection, whether it be for you or your vehicle.
Recently, we experienced an incident where our paving company had to barricade an area that could not be paved due to rain. The area was secured with cones and barricades around 5:30 p.m. However, about an hour later, we received a photo of a car stuck in a hole that was supposed to be marked off. It is unclear whether the driver or another resident moved the cones, but this behavior is both unsafe and dangerous.
Please understand that these markers are not arbitrary; they are critical for ensuring that you and your vehicle remain safe. Disturbing or removing them can lead to serious accidents or damage. For example, during last year’s paving project, a resident removed the cones and rode her bicycle through the coned area. This resulted in damage to the new asphalt, as well as injury to the resident who fell and scraped her knee.
We recognize that construction and projects can be inconvenient, and we do not take this lightly. We are committed to reopening areas as soon as it is safe to do so and make every effort to minimize disruption. However, respecting the cones and barricades is crucial for your safety.
Please use common sense and avoid these areas while they are marked off. Your cooperation in keeping these safety measures intact helps ensure that our community remains safe for everyone.
so when is it necessary to seek immediate attention? When you are not sure—seek help. What signs can signal urgency? Seizures, not eating and drinking, not eliminating for a long time, breathing heavily are certainly cause for concern. Look at the gums in the mouth – are they nice and pink or white or blue tinged? If you have a dedicated thermometer, you can make sure it is lubricated and then use it rectally. The ones that have a flexible rubber tip are preferable. Normal temperature ranges from about 99 -103.9. degrees F In Florida climate, it can be slightly higher than 103 and still be normal. It is difficult to tell a FEVER from infection versus HYPERTHERMIA from heat
Protecting Our Waterways
The Master Association’s Pond Committee has installed colorful storm drain markers in various locations throughout Kings Point. These stickers, provided by Hillsborough County, are a reminder of the importance of pollution prevention in our neighborhood storm drains.
In various places in Kings Point these have been placed near the storm drains. The following is WHY.
In Florida, Stormwater runoff occurs during rainfalls as the water flows over our driveways, sidewalks, streets and roofs and into our drains.
The water in the drains flows into our ponds or Cypress Creek where it goes eventually into the Little Mantee River. From there into Tampa Bay, wetlands, oceans and eventually into our groundwater.
Before it reaches a body of water it has collected debris, dirt, chemicals, and other pollutants.
Besides our ponds being affected negatively by these pollutants they can make it into our water supply.
HERE’S WHAT YOU CAN DO HELP:
•Never dump anything down storm drains…They are not sewers
•Use fertilizers sparingly
•Control soil erosion by planting over bare spots and pond shores
•Sweep driveways, sidewalks and roads instead of using a hose
•Properly dispose of hazardous chemicals
•Avoid pesticides
•Direct downspouts away from paved surfaces
•Use a car wash instead of washing cars in the driveways
•Check your car for leaks
exposure—which require different treatments—so your veterinarian will need a history from you and will want to run tests to determine diagnosis and treatments.
For best results, establish a relationship with a local veterinarian because an established client will have easier access to veterinary care. True emergencies may be referred, but your local veterinarian can triage, stabilize and begin treatment before referring. All clients but especially snowbirds need to have medical records for their pets in both their summer and winter home locations.
A medical record is not the same
September 11
As we approach the anniversary of September 11, it’s important to pause and reflect on the events that forever changed our nation 23 years ago. On this day, we remember the nearly 3,000 lives lost and honor the countless heroes— first responders, military personnel, and ordinary citizens—who displayed extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
For many in our Kings Point community, this day resonates deeply. Several residents lived or worked in the areas directly impacted by the attacks, and their stories of survival, loss, and resilience remind us of the personal connections to that fateful day. Their experiences add a poignant layer to our collective memory, reinforcing the significance of our reflections and commemorations.
September 11 is not just a day of remembrance but also a reminder of the strength and unity that emerged from the ashes of that dark day. It’s a time to acknowledge the resilience of our nation and the enduring spirit of those who continue to serve and protect our freedoms.
In Kings Point, a community with many veterans and patriots, this day holds special significance. As we honor the memory of those we lost, let us also express our gratitude to those who continue to serve. May we never forget the sacrifices made and the unity that brought us together in the wake of tragedy.
Let us take a moment on September 11 to reflect, remember, and honor all who were affected by the events of that day. Together, we ensure that the legacy of 9/11 is never forgotten.
as a receipt—it is the complete record by a veterinarian with results of diagnostic tests and treatments, vaccines etc,. Sharing medical records is a common and necessary practice between veterinarians and are essential for continuity of care. You can keep your own copies so that the information is readily available for any circumstance. Sharing veterinary medical records does not mean that you switched veterinary clinics—it simply allows you to get the best care for your pet or for urgent care, for second opinions or for consultations- which is in the best interest of your pet. I often interpret veterinary medical records to guide decision making even when patients are seeing other veterinarians.
When in doubt seek veterinary care. For after hours (nights, weekends, and holidays) urgent or emergency care go to the closest emergency veterinary clinic. I recommend having that information in your phone for fast access. True emergency clinics do not require appointments— just walk in. They see patients in order of urgency and can be very expensive—but when needed they can be life-saving.
7 Ways to Make Friends When You Are Older
Studies have shown a strong link between maintaining social connections and having better overall mental and physical health, as well as a more positive outlook on life. There are a number of simple ways to make friends as you age. Here are a few.
Attend religious services - Whether in person or online, going to a church, mosque or synagogue is a great way to find like-minded individuals. Religion can be a connecting force. If you’re not religious, but are spiritual, you can find similar groups.
Connect with activity groups –Many activity groups around our community center on common interests. Many are for older adults seeking community and friendship. Checkcommunitycenters,churches and senior centers around you. Online, look into AARP communities, Facebook Groups or Meetup.com.
Enroll in continuing education - Continuing education and lifelong learning courses can connect people, and keep minds sharp and engaged.
Go on a date - Friendship doesn’t have to stop at 50, and neither does romance. Dating can be done in person or online, for a deeper connection or just companionship.
Start exercising - Taking an exercise class or joining a fitness group can be a great way for older adults to get active, and become part of a dynamic community. Options can range from senior dance classes to walking clubs, water aerobics sessions to yoga meetups.
Take a trip - One of the biggest benefits of traveling is the social environment. Traveling is always a way to meet new people and bond overthesharedexperienceofthetrip.
Volunteer or get a part-time jobGiving back can be a fulfilling and empowering activity for older adults, plus it’s an easy, convenient way to meet like-minded new people. Service organizations always need volunteers, as do hospitals, schools and the like. If you still want to work, a part-time gig can keep your skills sharp and provide you with another important social outlet.
African Violets-My FavoriteWork & Houseplants
Lynn Barber, Extension Agent, University of Florida/Hillsborough County Extension
Growing up, my mother grew African Violets on a tv tray in her room. We were more into climbing trees, playing baseball and splashing in the creek. It’s interesting how things come around. There are 12 African violets, 11 in bloom, on two towel racks, now plant stands, in my office.
You, too, can be successful in growing these adorable plants by following the tips below, which include light, temperature, soil, water, fertilizer, propagation and pest management.
Direct sunlight is damaging to this plant which thrives in bright light within 3 feet of a southeast or southwest-facing window. The plant will let you know if the light level is appropriate. If it is too low, you will see thin, deep green leaves and the plant stretching for light. If the leaves are pale or greenish yellow, there is too much light. This situation slows growth and decreases flowering. African violets need eight to 12 hours of light and eight hours of darkness daily. Fluorescent lights and other artificial lights are options.
You can purchase African violet
soil mixtures which contain peat moss, vermiculite and perlite. Drainage holes in plant containers are a must. Water should be at room temperature. You can water from the top of the container or bottom/saucer. Don’t leave water in the saucer. Note that overwatering is a significant issue.
Water-soluble African violet fertilizer is available in nurseries and big box stores. Follow the recommended application rate. If you overfertilize this plant, you will see a rusty appearance on the leaves.
Now, for the most fun part, this plant is easy to propagate. Select a firm leaf, cut or leaving the leaf stem intact. Trim the stem to 1 - 1 ½ inches. Use a pencil to make a hole in the soil mixture, then insert the stem knot in the hole. It generally takes three to four weeks for the roots to form. New plant leaves appear in three to four weeks after rooting occurs. You can anticipate flowers in six to nine months thereafter.
To minimize pest management, remove faded flowers and unhealthy leaves. Provide adequate spacing so pests, like mealybugs and cyclamen mites, are not able to infest the other African violets nearby. Purchasing and using sterilized soil is also important.
For additional information on African violets, including root diseases and petiole rot, go to https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ publication/MG028 and read the publication by Dr. Sydney Park Brown, University of Florida.
Let’s grow some lovely African Violets inside.
Imposter Scams
By Master Deputy Jeffery E. Merry Jr.
In just the last two weeks we have seen 4 victims in Sun City Center of the newest “Imposter” scam. People have been victimized for hundreds of thousands of dollars just this year from this “Imposter” scam.
These scams start with a fake notification from a financial institution or government agency informing you that your accounts have been compromised. They claim they’ve intervened in time and that the appropriate authorities have been contacted. Shortly after, you receive a follow-up call from these socalled “authorities,” who will falsely claim to be from the FBI or the Department of Homeland Security. They will tell you that none of your assets are safe and that they’re there to assist you. They then instruct you to transfer your money into a so-called government escrow account to help trace and catch the criminals. To do this, they’ll ask you to withdraw cash from your bank account and deposit it into what they claim is a “government ATM” or account. In reality, this ATM is a bitcoin machine, and the account is controlled by criminals. Once you deposit your
Attention Kings Point Residents: A Continued Reminder to Respect Our Leased Golf Course
Despite previous reminders about the importance of keeping our golf course clean and free from unauthorized alterations, we continue to see problematic behavior. This persistent issue highlights the need for us to address it once again. Our golf course is a leased property, and respecting the guidelines for its use is crucial for maintaining the quality of our shared spaces.
Recently, we’ve seen a troubling increase in the amount of trash left behind, including water bottles, liquor bottles, and even larger items such as a couch, a dresser drawer, and most recently, a toilet. While turning a toilet into a planter box may seem creative, it’s not appropriate to use our course as a place for such “art.”
Our Master Association Field Manager and other contractors are working diligently to keep the course clean, but the frequency of these incidents means that more resources are being devoted
Kings Point Michigan Club Begins New Year of Events
money, it’s quickly transferred by these fraudulent organizations.
•Never move or transfer your money to “protect it.” Your money is fine where it is, no matter what they say or how urgently they say it. Moving it means you’ll lose it, not protect it. Someone who says you have to move your money to protect it is a scammer. Period.
•Never share a verification code. Ever. Banks use these codes in online banking to prove you’re really you. If you share that code, the scammer can use it to prove they’re you. No caller — especially someone from your bank’s fraud department — will ever ask for the verification code. That’s always a scam.
•Stop and check it out. If you’re worried, call your real bank, broker, or investment advisor. Use the number you find on your statement — never the number the caller gave you, which will take you to the scammer.
•Report it. If you get a call like this, tell your bank or fund right away. Especially if you moved money or shared a verification code.
REMEMBER: as with any phone call, text message, email, postal mail, VERIFY! VERIFY! VERIFY!
If you feel you are a victim, have any questions, or concerns, please contact your Community Resource Deputy, Master Deputy Jeff Merry, 813-242-5515.
On Saturday, September 14, Gregory Nicholson of Musical Bingo will host Music Bingo at the North Clubhouse Veterans Theatre. It is NOT Music Trivia -you do not need to know artists names or titles of songs. Gregory will play songs and if they are on your Bingo Card you mark it off. Everyone who has played this has enjoyed it. Doors open at 5:30 and Bingo begins at 6:30. There will be cash prizes and snacks.
Ticket Sales will be on Tuesdays, August 27, September 3 and 10 from 9-noon in the KP North Clubhouse Lobby at the Michigan Club Table. Tickets are $10 per person for members and non-members. BYOE including glasses and napkins. Buckets of ice and water pitchers provided. If you would like a Table Registration form emailed to you, please send your request to miclubkp@gmail. That will get you through the line a little faster. Everyone sitting at your table should register and pay at one time, but only one person has to be present.
COA’s Summer Hours: The COA will be closed for August. We reopen on September 3rd. Monday- Friday 9AM-12pm
KP COA Directory - The COA is working on the 2024/2025 COA membership directory. Current information has been sent to Member Association Presidnets for review and update (due October 16th, 2024)
Volunteer at KP COA - The KP COA provides a variety of service to COA members such as copying, faxes, bulletin board postings, free notary services, annual shredding, etc. If you would like to join the COA team as a volunteer working in the COA office, call us at
to cleanup, which affects everyone in our community. Here’s what we need from you:
•No Dumping: Please dispose of all trash and unwanted items properly. Dumping furniture, yard waste, or other debris on the course is unacceptable and costly for the community.
•No Alterations: Do not plant anything or make changes to the course. This area is leased property and must remain as is.
•Report Issues: If you see anyone littering or dumping on the golf course, please report it to the master association immediately.
For those looking to dispose of old items, consider donating to organizations like the Salvation Army or using proper disposal services. Yard waste and large debris should be managed according to local waste management guidelines. By working together to address these issues, we can all help maintain the beauty of our golf course and our community. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Save the Date: Feline Folks Fundraiser
Feline Folks is excited to announce their next highly popular Jewelry Sale Fundraiser. This special event will be held Wednesday, September 18, 2024 from 10 AM to 1:00PM in the Kings Point North Clubhouse Banquet Room. Entry is a $5.00 donation at the door or a donation of a gently used piece of jewelry. The items for sale start at $3.00. Payment will be accepted by cash, check and credit card. Feline Folks is happy to welcome everyone in the Sun City Center, Ruskin, Wimauma area to this fun event. 100% of the proceeds will help Feline Folks continue feeding, neutering, vaccinating and re-homing our community free roaming cats during these challenging times.
Feline Folks is a non-profit operating on donations and through the kindness of volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering there currently is a need for help providing short or long term foster homes, trapping and transporting cats to veterinary appointments. For more information contact Feline Folks via Email: Info@ FelineFolks.us - Website: www. felinefolks.us or Facebook: felinefolksofsuncitycenter
813-633-1710, or stop in at 1902 Clubhouse Dr Suite B during our business hours. We are happy to have new volunteers. Look forward to seeing you soon.
Remember - We are here for the residents in Kings Point. If your Association decided not to join the COA, individuals in those associations can join individually. Come in and pay the $5.00 annual fee and receive a membership card.
Diane Cantwell, a retired third grade teacher from the Cleveland, Ohio area, has spent a lifetime devoted to service to others.
Recently selected as the Kings Point Volunteer of the Month, Diane has continued that dedication in her retirement here in Sun City Center. She has become involved with others in many projects.
She has served for three years as the Team Leader for the Health Ministry Team at the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. Other church activities have included serving on the Hospitality Team preparing and serving meals and working the Coffee Bar on Sunday mornings. For several years she has taught Vacation Bible School and served as a mentor for teens ready to join the church. She really enjoys co-chairing the church Food Pantry to help meet the nutritional needs of those in the community. Recently she has become involved with Inspira, a new 501-c-3 organization that works with children in need of socialization and language skills. For two years she co-chaired the Empty Bowl project, a wide-ranging volunteer effort that raised funds for teens to attend summer camp, the food pantry, Samaritan Services, and Breakaway scholarships.
In her spare time she assists with the distribution of American flags on national holidays and occasionally delivers Meals on Wheels. She helps as needed for the activities of the Kings Point Michigan Club.
Currently, she is spending three hours a week reading with a friend who is struggling from a stroke. You just might see her and her friends walking the streets of Kings Point as part of her fitness program. She participates in daily exercise and water classes. She has always enjoyed being busy and now she is making the most of her time helping others.
In honor of Labor Day and September 11, we will light up the Gate House in red, white, and blue from Labor Day weekend through September 11. This display is a tribute to the men and women who have served our country, including the many veterans in our community. We encourage everyone to take a moment to come out and see the Gate House lit up in honor of their service and sacrifice.
CAHT Invites you to the Pelcian Players community theater to attend Cirque De La Morte - A Murder Mystery Dinner Theater presentation. Get your tickets at sccblueheart.org. Menu: Ceaser Salaf & Rolls; Chicken Francese w/ Lemon butter & wine suace; Pasta & Plum red sauce or pepper steak w/ pepper and onions and mashed potatoes. $40 Per Ticket
Location: Community Hall 1910 S Pebble Beach Blvd, September 21, 2024 Doors open 4:30 pm Show begins 5:00 pm
Kings Point Mixed Chorus Fall Rehearsals Begin
If you love to sing with others and live in the Sun City Center area, you are invited to come join the Kings Point Mixed Chorus! If you can match a pitch and enjoy learning music and having fun (no auditions), join us and our new Music Director, Faye Nepon and Accompanist Ines Hertz. Registration takes place Mondays, September 9th and 16th at noon - $20 membership fee, at Kings Point North Clubhouse, 1900 Clubhouse Drive – East Social Room. Rehearsals begin Monday, September 9th, and continue weekly on Mondays from 12:15 to 2:30pm, ending with our Holiday concert o nFriday December the 13th For more information,email kpchoruspr@gmail.com
