News of Sun City Center February 2025

February, 2025

3 Board Workshop Rollins Theater – 9 a.m. Zoom: 853 8985 9462

The News of Sun City Center

Gone Stampin’ Club

By Paula Lickfeldt

About twelve years ago Barb O’Donnell, who liked to make greeting cards, gathered ten of her friends, petitioned the CA to start a club and started the Gone Stampin’ Club. The club now has 32 members. During the winter months when the snowbirds have returned, a meeting will have between 20 and 30 members making cards. During the summer 12 to 15 members will be making cards.

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Zoom: 863 6794 9786

Passcode: 034285

Room – 2 p.m.

Agendas for the monthly Board Meetings will be posted on the Official Bulletin Board in the Atrium the Friday before and on the CA website “www.suncitycenter.org” – under “Residents” – Upcoming Meeting Agendas). They will also be sent via “What’s New in the CA” email.

CA Contact Information Administration Office

1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd, SCC 813.633.3500 • Hours 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., M-F sccboard@suncitycenter.org Website: suncitycenter.org Information Center: 813.633.4670

In the beginning the club met in the Armstrong Room to make cards but they did not have much work space and no place to store their supplies. At that time they had two “driveway” sales a year. The sale turned out to be very popular and profitable. They sold a lot of cards. The handmade cards sell for $2 for one card or $1.50 each for a purchase of more than one card. About a year ago the Gone Stampin’ Club was able to move to the Bunka Arts Room in the Arts and Crafts Building on Cherry Hills Dr. They were very excited about the move. They now have ample work space and space to store their supplies. There are always supplies on hand for someone to use if they want to give a card a try.

Yearly dues are $10. The dues are used

Coffee & Conversation

Please join us on Tuesday, February 4, at 10 a.m. in the Florida Room for Coffee & Conversation with the Board of Directors. For the first 30 minutes the Board will take questions on any topic from the audience. Then the Directors will go to individual tables to answer questions about a specific topic. Members can circulate to the topics that they are interested in and have a more in-depth conversation.

Central Campus Upgrade Project • Corporate Secretary/LRPC Chair Caneen Policies & Elections Handbook Review, CA Financial Health • Treasurer Collins Club Issues • Vice President/Club Liaison Director Blaylock County Government Issues • Director Porto Communications & Website • Director Roberts Grants & Fundraising • Director McCall

Property Owner Association Issues • Director Rickert Club Events • Director DeAngelis All Other/General • President Clark

CA Supports Squad

to buy envelopes to go with the cards. Eighty percent of the money that is made through dues and card sales is donated to local nonprofits such as Moffitt, The Emergency Squad, Mary Petro Fund, local food banks especially Our Lady’s Pantry and Angels Attic. Twenty percent of the money buys envelopes, pays for a Christmas party and a pizza party in the summer. Cards are sold at FunFest and Holiday Shopping on the day of the golf cart parade. The members also participate in “Hi, Neighbor!”

The group is very social. They enjoy their time spent working together and they like to go on “road trips” to local stamping supply stores. The club meets on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Thursday of the month from 1 p.m. until 3 or 4. They are going to start selling cards during their monthly work times.

The Nearly New Shop is a good place to look for card making supplies and the club always accepts donations of supplies from people who no longer make cards.

Trail Day in SCC

Sun City Center Community Association gave a donation of $5,777.09 to Emergency Squad from 2024 donations to Bingo. Pictured from lelf to right are Ed Whitehead, Emergency Squad Deputy Chief; Karen Marmon, Bingo Chair; Mike Bardell, Emergency Squad Chief; and Ron Clark, CA President.

The Sun City Center Community Association and the Sun City Center Audubon Club invite you to a morning of nature-centric activities on the West Campus Nature Trails located on West Del Webb Blvd, between Vincennes and Seton Hall. Festivities commence on February 7 at 9 a.m. and conclude at noon. Trail guides will be available along the trail for questions. Participate in a “scavenger hunt.” Download the trail map to your phone and follow the clues. “SCCAudubonClub. com/nature-trails”.

Enjoy a morning outdoors and learn more about the Nature Trails and the creatures and plants that live there. Snacks and water will be provided courtesy of the SCC Community Association. Questions? Melanie Higgins, 813-625-1271 or “melaniephiggins@gmail.com”.

Street parking is available along Del Webb, Vincennes or Seton Hall.

Notice of Hardship Relief for 2025

Annual Community Association Dues

Hardship Applications are due by February 28, 2025

Hardship financial relief for 2025 annual membership dues is available to Sun City Center Association members. The resident owner/owners of the property applying for financial hardship assistance must have been Community Association members in good standing for a period of three years prior to applying for assistance. They must also complete a full financial disclosure. Applications for hardship are available at the Community Association Office (1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd.) and must be received by February 28, 2025 for the current year. For additional information please contact Member Services at 813-633-3500.

By Ron Clark, CA President

At the January Board meeting, the Board approved the appointment of Chairpersons for 22 Committees. These Chairpersons will now be looking for additional volunteers for their committee. Please consider volunteering to help the CA continue to be a fun and efficient place to live. You can get the HUG-SCC volunteer forms at the CA office or on the website at “suncitycenter.org/visitors/volunteerism” and then scroll down to “Click Here”.

Good news about the insurance for property damage, liability, workers’ compensation, crime, and cyber security. Even in the aftermath of all the 2024 hurricanes, our insurance broker was able to secure policies with the same coverage for 2% less than in 2024 instead of the anticipated 10 to 20% increase. The Board approved the 2025 premiums of approximately $392,000.

The Board and CA staff are still working on the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Most of the damage has been repaired by CA staff. Two major projects are outstanding that require contractors, who are very busy with long lead times. Shortly we will receive quotes to resurface the shuffleboard courts from the storm damage. The shade coverings for the shuffleboard courts are still scheduled to be installed in May. At the press deadline, we are still awaiting to receive a quote from three contractors to replace or repair the roof over the indoor pools, but both pools are operational.

Regarding our Capital Projects: You may have noticed the silt fence in the new volleyball area. This was the latest, and we hope last requirement from the county for a building permit. We are hopeful the building permit will be issued shortly and our contractor has said his schedule will allow construction to start in January.

We continue to make progress on the county approvals for Phase 1A (new Applied Arts Building) of the Central Campus Upgrade project. Community Manager Reitz and I closely monitor the progress of our engineers and architects. I personally stay in frequent contact with county permitting management to urge progress. We are close to approval for the site plan and only lack approval of the proposed sewer connection. Regarding the building permit, our private provider NOVA reviewed the construction documents and we expect them to shortly send approved construction documents to the Fire Marshall for review. Once the Fire Marshall approves the construction drawings, then the county issues a Building Permit without further review and construction can begin. We have initiated discussion with the Building contractor (DFG) about groundbreaking dates.

The Board is focused on upgrading our facilities with these exciting new projects while keeping our dues affordable. Let us all be positive, respectful, kind, and have fun in our senior years!

VOLUNTEER LUNCHEON

In appreciation of your hard work, dedication and support given to the CA throughout the year, the Board of Directors cordially invites you to attend a picnic lunch in your honor on: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2025 • FLORIDA ROOM • 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Family Connections to SCC

By Paula Lickfeldt

Lois and Charles Rezner moved to Sun City Center in 1995. They lived on Princeton Green Court in Kings Point until they moved to Aston Gardens, North. Their daughter Barbara and her husband John along with their son liked to visit SCC even though they felt they “would never be old enough” to actually live there.

Barbara and John had 13 exchange students while they lived in CT and they were very active in their community and church. They both practiced law in CT. They have traveled to numerous countries to celebrate their students’ weddings.

Fast forward to 2020 when they move to SCC. Their youngest daughter had just graduated from high school and was looking forward to attending Hillsborough Community College to study business. They bought a home in SCC and moved so that Lily would have a place to live, with them, while she was in school. This was when Covid hit and Lily couldn’t live in a dorm. They have two other children, a son who is an Air Force weatherman stationed in Nebraska with his wife and

daughter and a daughter who still lives in CT but who is thinking about moving closer to SCC and family. She works from home so she can work wherever she lives. Their youngest child, Lily, has now graduated from USF and is working locally, including part time at Aston Gardens, North, so she still lives with them. Barbara’s brother Tom came to Florida to be near family after being widowed and met his wife Nancy after moving here. They live in Kings Point.

John and Barbara exemplify volunteerism here in SCC. John is the president of the German American Club, Barbara is a member, they take ballroom dance lessons and dance in Winter Park, Wesley Chapel and Tampa where they compete in dance contests as well as belonging to the Let’s Dance Club in SCC. They have a plot with The Tillers and Toilers and they both are gardeners. John volunteers at the Nearly New store on Mondays and is on Security Patrol, he is in the SCC Creative Writers Club and the Kings Point Poetry Club and he is a member of the Swim Dandies which is an all male group that has one number at the Swim Dancers shows. Barbara is the vice-president of the RV Club, president of the Swim Dancers Club, drives an ambulance for the Emergency Squad at night and works 40 hrs. a week. SCC operates on volunteerism and they do more than their share.

So, for folks who didn’t think they would ever be old enough to live here, they surely keep themselves busy and young.

Swim Dancers

The Sun City Center Swim Dancers will present “Kaleidoscope” on March 1 at 2 p.m. in the SCC Indoor Lap Pool. Tickets are $5 and go on sale at the Atrium ticket booth or from any swim dancer on February 17. Our swim dancers can’t wait to perform for you. They’ve been working diligently for months to perfect beautiful moves, including waterwheels, Flamingos, somersaults, walkovers, and Eiffel Towers. Please join us for the fun. For any additional information, you can call Barb Reznor at 860-841-3282.

Bowls USA Awards Bob Fladung

By Paula Lickfeldt

The President’s Award from BowlsUSA, national, was presented to Bob Fladung for his tireless dedication in growing the membership and inspiring enthusiasm for the sport. Your efforts have made a lasting impact on the bowls community. The president of Bowls USA also sent Bob a letter congratulating him for receiving the award and acknowledging him for his energy, enthusiasm and

dedication in both attracting new bowlers and keeping the fun alive in the game.

Congratulations, Bob. Sun City Center is very proud of you! Bob is an instructor for the game in SCC. The lawn bowling greens are on Pebble Beach next to the SCC library. Anyone interested in learning to bowl is welcome to come to the greens for lessons. Bob would love to meet you.

SCC History Society New Displays

There is a new look to the History Society's display. Please take the time to stop in the atrium and check it out. Some of the History Society members have worked many hours, planning together and finally, executing their plans which have resulted in an all new multifaceted display. The previous display was a single opened face bulletin board which has been retired and the area has now been upgraded with a glass enclosed bulletin board, an enclosed shelved display case and a wall mounted TV with a video display.

A variety of artifacts, articles and videos will be displayed on a rotating basis. It offers a perfect opportunity to learn about when SCC began and the progress it has made through the last 60 plus years.

Keep in mind that the History Society is always seeking new items of interest to add to their vault to be used for display. We gladly accept any donated items anyone would like to remain in a protected area to be shared with residents.

The January Board of Directors Meeting

the Community Association Board of Directors voted on insurance premiums, committee chairs and tellers, and funds for the Emergency Squad.

Blaylock acknowledged $11,661 in contributions to several funds, as reported separately in detail (see Acknowledgements).

The Board approved the following 2025 insurance policies, all expensed to the Operations Account, totaling $392,199.99:

– Property $ 237,854.70

– Directors & Officers Liability $34,000.64

– Fidelity Bond/Crime $6,055.96

– Umbrella (Auto Owners) $34,893.36

– Workers Comp $22,879.00

– Auto (Auto Owners) $5,088.16

– General Liability (Auto Owners) $51,428.17

The Board appointed the 2025 chairs and co-chairs for standing committees, special committees, and other committees, as listed below.

Standing committees

Budget – Debbie Reilly, Consumer Affairs – Tony Rickert, Governmental Affairs – Julie Porto, Internal Audit –Julie Porto

Communications-Web Site – Geri Roberts, Council of Area Presidents (CO-AP) – Tony Rickert, Fitness Center – Michael Reed, Fundraising –Nancy McCall, Grants – Nancy McCall, Hardship Panel – Jim Collins, Hi Neighbor – Co-Chairs Carrie Blaylock and Arthur DeAngelis, History Society –Susan Muise, Hospitality & Info Center – Janet Ditmore, Long Range Planning – Debbie Caneen, Pool Committee –Carrie Blaylock, Search Committee –Debbie Caneen

Other committees

Decorating – Cindi Malin, Golf Cart Parade – Co-Chairs Carrie Blaylock and Arthur DeAngelis, FunFest – Co-Chair – Carrie Blaylock and Arthur DeAngelis, Monday Movies – Linda Clapp, 4th of July Breakfast – Cindi Malin

The 2025 Election Committee

Dorothy Anderson, Chair; Janet Smith, Vice Chair; Tellers: Robert Anderson, Kim Barson, Jeanne Bartell, Sue Fitts, Karen Fredericks, Judy Furman, Dee Kelly, Judy Kip, Paul Kip, Christine Morrison, Betty Rollins, Belle Sauer, Linda Torchia, and Kathy Valenta. The board approved the distribution of Bingo funds in the amount of $5,777.09 to the Emergency Squad.

Lapidary Club Holiday Celebration

By Lin Opgenorth

Christmas memories were the focus of this year’s Lapidary Club holiday celebration and Annual Meeting, which led to the simple theme of Toyland. However, members didn’t just reminisce about their beloved toys of childhood, but each brought toys for children of veterans to enjoy this very Christmas. The table full of toys, along with $2,500, were gifted to our own SCC Emergency Squad who collect toys for children of all ages yearly before the holidays. An equal dollar amount was presented to Director Bill Chini of Mary & Martha House in Ruskin, whose mission is to “support women and their children who have experienced…domestic violence and homelessness.” A thrift store is also available at 312 S. US Hwy 41 for both donations and quality item purchases. Another function of the Annual Meeting is the election of board members which occurred under the direction of outgoing President Lin Opgenorth. The results are as follows: President Jinny Hurley, Vice President

Cathy Liemkuehler, Secretary Annette Wakeman, Treasurer Bill Baker, and Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Sharon Sirak. All ran unopposed.

The frivolity associated with all Lapidary Club gatherings was a gift in itself and began with a caroling kazoo competition followed by an interactive, hearty rendition of “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” We invite new members year round and offer jewelry making classes

of various types including chain maille, beading weaving and bead stringing, lost wax casting, cabochon making, wire wrapping, gemstone faceting, Viking knit, polymer clay, and more.

Note: unfortunately, a Mary & Martha

House shelter housing 3 families received extensive damage during Helene due to a waterline break. All furniture and part of the structure was destroyed. Help in the restoration project is greatly appreciated.

The 2025 Board of Directors: Nancy McCall, Carrie Blaylock, Julie Porto, Ron Clark, Tony Rickert, Geri Roberts, Arthur De Angelis.

SCC German American Club Fasching Dinner/Dance

The SCC German American Club is Pleased to announce that its next event, the annual Fasching Dinner Dance, is going forward on Thursday, February 6th, at the Community Hall.

CLUBS

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.

The entertainment will be provided by fan favorite Brad Turk and his Northern Sounds. The event will be catered by Banquet Masters. Tickets for members will be $30, with a price of $40 for nonmembers.

There will be a costume contest for individuals and couples/groups. Top prize in each category will be $100! Cutoff date for tickets is Monday, February 3, 2025, with no refunds after that date.

Checks made payable to the German American Club of SCC should be mailed to or dropped off at one of the following addresses: Robert Stubing 1214 Peridot Lane, SCC, 973 670-2317, or Wolfgang Kesselring 2042 Grantham Greens Drive, SCC 860 307-3342. The doors will open at 4:30, so bring your dancing shoes!

Metaphysical Society

Meetings 10 a.m. • CA Heritage Room

Membership to our club is $10 annually. SCCCA residents are allowed one visit before joining. Kings Point residents may join after obtaining an active Club Card at the SCCCA office. Others may only attend with approved guest passes obtained at the SCCCA office. Our mission is to seek and explore the paths of Universal Oneness, Self-Discovery and Infinite Potential. Phone the club office at 813 3987033 for more information.

February Meeting Topics

Feb 5 • “Symbols In The Tarot” – Symbols used in different decks emphasize different meanings.

Feb 12 • “Alien Visitation or Earthly Technology?” – Join Bill Schroeder, UFO Specialist.

Feb 19 • “Medbed in a Box”. The future of Health will be brought to us today.

Feb 26 • “The Path of Forgiveness” Ed Foote, will present A Course in Miracles teachings.

Art Club in Sun City Center Gallery Opening on Wednesday, February 5, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Anne Walker’s acrylic classes will be presented. It will feature paintings from beginners to advanced artists who have learned their craft under the watchful eye of Anne Walker. Anne began her career in oils, but has transitioned to acrylics and mixed media. She has spent years perfecting her craft by attending workshops and classes so the work is ever changing and new. Please join us for refreshments and a spectacular show.

February 17 – Monthly Art Demo in Rollins Theater

Needlecrafters Donation

The Needlecrafters Club has been busy making items to support our troops. Operation Gratitude delivers Care Packages to deployed troops, military children, recruit graduates, veterans, and first responders. The Seamen’s Church supports the mariners who move over 90% of the world’s trade goods on the sea and inland waterways. The donation of 118 hats, 39 scarves and 9 Tiny Troops was split between both organizations over the holidays.

In addition to special projects like this, the Needlecrafters Club donates all proceeds from their shop to local charities, like the Emergency Squad. New needlecrafters are always welcome. We are a social group with a yarn habit! Membership dues are still only $5 a year. The club and shop are open M-W-F 9-12, T-Th 11-2 and are located behind the shuffleboard courts.

Melissa Nece who will demonstrate her forte with colored pencils. This is unique to our club and should be fascinating to watch. Please join us at 1pm in the Rollins Theater. All CA members are welcome.

Linda Scola is back! Her oil classes are Friday mornings, 9 to 11 a.m.

February Artist of the Month -Aleta G. Shannon, aka “Ali”, was born into a family of artists from New England. Living around and knowing many artists from the Rockport Art Association shows their influence in her paintings.

Though just recently finding and exhibiting her talent, the influences of Tom Nicholas, T.M. Nicholas and Wayne Morrell show strongly in her work. Becoming a marine and landscape artist has always been in her blood. She has become an award winning artist, with ribbons in the Sun City Art Show, Kings Point Art Show, and 1st Place at the Florida State Fair. Her work is on display in the Art room window and the Sun City Center Library.

Computer Club Meetings

Wednesday, February 12, at 7 p.m. • Florida Room VP Judy Lee will present “Beginning Genealogy”. If you are interested in learning about your ancestors, where and how they lived, or what they did for a living, this presentation will help you learn how to go about discovering these many interesting facts.

Computer Club Classes

The Computer Club Lab is open from 12:30 to 4:30, every day except Sunday. Come into the Lab to register for a class. Students must be a member in good standing at Sun City Center or Kings Point. Tuition is payable, by cash or check, upon registration. For additional information email: Judy Lee, Education Director at “education@scccomputerclub.org”. For all the details, go to the Computer Club website “scccomputerclub.org”. Detailed information is also available in the computer lab.

ipad/iPhone for Seniors • Monday, February 10, from 9 to noon. Why Use LibreOffice • Tuesday, February 11, from 10 to 11 a.m.

Music on Your Devices • Wednesday, February 12, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Beginning Computers I, II, III (3 classes) • Tuesday, February 18, Thursday, February 20, and Saturday, February 22, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Excel • Tuesday, February 25, from 9 to noon.

Genealogy for Seniors • Wednesday, February 26, and Friday, February 28, from 10 to noon.

When to Buy a Computer • Thursday, February 27, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Movie attendees must present a current SCCCA ID Badge, a SCCCA Guest Card or a Kings Point Usage Card to attend. Dates and time may be changed if necessary. Theater capacity is limited to 145 attendees per the Hillsborough County Fire Code.

RETRO MOVIE

MONDAY

February 10 • Benny & Joon • 1 hour, 38 minutes

Joon is a little unbalanced. Sometimes her sweet nature gives way to oddities like setting fires! She lives with her brother Benny who's spent his life caring for her since their parents died. One night, when playing poker with unusual stakes, Joon loses her hand and "wins" whimsical misfit Sam who charms his way into her heart. Now if they can only find the perfect mate for overprotective Benny. This 1993 movie has charm, humor and a great cast, which makes it the perfect movie for everyone.

Starring: Johnny Depp, Mary Stuart Masterson, Aidan Quinn, Julianne Moore

Genre: Romance, Comedy

Rating: PG

February 24 • Thelma • 1 hour 38 minutes

Inspired by a real-life experience of director Josh Margolin's grandmother, the movie puts a clever spin on movies like MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE, shining the spotlight on an elderly grandmother as an unlikely action hero. In the first leading film role of her 70-year career, Squibb portrays strong-willed Thelma with grit and determination, demonstrating that she is more than capable of taking care of business despite what her daughter Gail, son-inlaw Alan, or grandson Danny might believe.

Starring: June Squibb, Clark Gregg, Parker Posey, Fred Hechinger

Genre: Comedy

Rating: PG-13

Milestone Anniversaries Two Community Service Organizations are Celebrating

By Paula Lickfeldt

Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Bank has been feeding families in need for more than two decades. For 21 years they have been feeding more than 300 Hillsborough County families a month. The food pantry gets food from local food banks, grocery stores and the US Government.

The food Pantry, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, run entirely by volunteers, had its beginnings in 1999 when the Knights of Columbus of Prince of Peace Catholic Church and Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church joined forces to feed 25 families out of the lobby of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. By 2004 they were feeding 35 to 40 families a week. As the need grew and the number of people seeking food assistance grew the pantry moved into a classroom of the church. Today it has its own home on the campus of the church. Fighting hunger is a community-wide

passion in the SouthShore area of Hillsborough County

Tom Bullaro has been the director of the food pantry for 18 of the 20 years that he has been a volunteer. Tom says if it

World of Dance

By Gezil Andrews

If you Google the word “World of Dance” and you will get several options to choose from – some which include lots of quips for dancing such as one from a famous dancer from our generation “Mikhail Baryshnikov, the Russian-American Dancer and Choreographer “ - “I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to dance better than myself.”

I attended our World of Dance event last night, January 18, at the Community Center, Sun City Center and saw some good dancing. I have “four left feet” so I stayed with interviewing people and taking pictures, and that was fun enough!

Shane and Tori Lee danced the Nightclub Two Step to the “lady in Red”. They slid across the floor and held a gleam in their smiles. Well, they should with 20 years of on the floor practice and a real heart for dancing. Great job

Shane and Tori!

And Ballroom dancing got quite good marks with Roger Clark and Bernice DuBro-Clark in their Ballroom demonstration to “Daddy’s Bolero”. Bernice was beautiful with her short blonde

Dance continued on page 3.

were not for the volunteers they would not exist.

Seniors in Service is also a 501(c) (3) non-profit whose mission is to promote volunteerism among seniors in Hillsborough County.

Seniors in Service was founded in Florida in 1984. Today, the organization is made up of 1,500 volunteers 55+ in age. The volunteers help caregivers, help teachers with students that need a little extra help, make contact with seniors who are homebound. help homeless veterans with food, housing, and furnishing a home, help the low vision and blind community just to name a few.

Volunteerism is all to enrich the lives of those who volunteer and those who receive the gift of help. For a senior to get involved and to volunteer in some capacity, gives extra meaning to their lives and keeps them engaged.

On Monday December 2, 2024, both the food pantry and Seniors in Service celebrated their anniversaries with a ribbon cutting. Seniors in Service celebrated 40 years and Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry celebrated 25 years.

representatives from local healthcare, banking, real estate professionals, and more were at the Veterans Theater in Kings Point. This was a free event open to the public. Many people took advantage of the event to get information about local businesses and health care

KP Monthly Market, which offered fruits and vegetables, fresh and frozen fish, homemade crafts and even music, was available on the grounds next to the parking lot. The KP Monthly Market is scheduled for these future dates; Feb. 13, Mar. 13 and Apr. 11 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Volunteers coming together. Seventy Seniors in Service volunteers, volunteer at Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry. They are an integral part of the operation.

Clare Fenney and Bruce Fraser talk about the SCC Men’s Club Life Line.

Richard from the Florida Fish Company.

A beautiful side step by George Hawn and Donna Armstrong

Mike Henson & Line Dancers Line Dance Fun

The Editor’s Corner

Until We Learn—Again

By E. Adam Porter Editor, The News of SCC & South County

It’s February. Again. And, once again, the second day of this month marks the celebration of Groundhog Day. I love this holiday. Sure, this annual bacchanal fails to stir the spirit like Easter or Independence Day. It doesn’t tug on the heartstrings like Mother’s, Father’s, or Grandparent’s Day. There are no gifts or feasts or sparkling lights. There is just a small town in Pennsylvania and a lighthearted tradition centered around a chubby, charmingly docile rodent. Did Phil see his shadow or not? Will everybody (but Florida, usually) get six more weeks of winter?

By the time you read this, we may well have heard from the world’s fuzziest weatherman. As I write this, “how much more winter” is still an open question. Funny, considering we just came out of some of the most wintery weather Florida has ever seen. Nine inches of snow? Seriously?? But back to Groundhog Day. Most of the reason this holiday matters to me—and maybe to most people who mark it—is because of the 1993 movie of the same name. Bill Murray and Andie MacDowell star in a film that is both a fun, cozy romantic comedy and a weird Twilight Zone adjacent sci-fi flick. Perhaps not surprising since the movie was co-written and directed by frequent Murray collaborator and fellow Ghostbuster, Harold Ramis.

Apart from having a couple of the funniest police chases in the history of cinema, “Groundhog Day” flirts with a serious question: “What would you do if you had forever to do it?” Murray’s character, “Phil the Egomaniacal Weatherman” answers that question in a variety of ways. He interrogates the nature of deity, learns the piano, changes a tire, and repeatedly attempts to win the heart of his charming producer, played with a healthy dollop of southern sweet cream by MacDowell. “Phil” also repeatedly attempts to “end it all” before he finally gets over himself just enough to realize he does not exist only to please himself. To make himself happy, he must learn how to make others happy.

And that, of course, is the moral of the story. The suggestion is applied with all the subtlety of a slap in the face, but Murray and Ramis manage to make it feel charming despite the bluntness of the message. Phil shows up at the annual Groundhog Day dinner dance after a day—he might say an eternity—learning how to win the hearts of just about everyone in the town. We are not told how long it took him to reach this pinnacle of personhood, just shown that— like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol—Phil has opened his heart to love someone other than himself. It’s a warm and fuzzy finish befitting the movie’s cuddly, shadow-sensing prognosticator.

These days, listening to lead stories and reading headlines, it feels like that lesson has yet to catch on. Our national conversations don’t seem to be about “when” to hurt or help anymore, but about “how much” to hurt some people and who “deserves” the help. I see this stuff and I hear these things, and I wonder how long it’s going to take us to learn the most basic lesson of life: It’s Not All About Me.

Sure, we come in alone and we generally go out alone, and

99 Years Worth Celebrating

By Gilbert Rucketts

On December 13, 1925, Calvin Coolidge was President, a new Model T Ford cost $260, the U.S. population was 106 million, all movies were silent, and Phyllis Lee was born. On December 13, 2024, at the Sun City Center Central Campus, Mexican Train Club was about to embark on a surprise birthday party for Phyllis. Phyllis’ son and daughter in law put things in motion for the special 99th birthday celebration with a birthday cake and balloons. Brenda Green and Marilyn Marion hatched a plan to create a fictional storyboard made of sweet treats with the help of creative writer, Brent Green.

The storyboard was presented and read to Phyllis during a break in the club play. The celebration included the obligatory happy birthday song, cake, balloons, a crown, and a sash.

Some would ask, “Why are you celebrating your 99th birthday? Don’t you want to wait until next

so often in life we feel alone… but is that how we should live? Should any people ever have to wonder if other folks see them as fellow human beings? Should children ever have to wonder if adults are going to let them suffer… or make them suffer? It’s not a perfect world, I know that. But should we be working to make it better or worse? Should we be helping people or hurting them, facilitating freedom and happiness or forcing them to get in line if they want to be counted?

One of the reasons I love The News, is that we have a strong and steadfast focus on sharing good news and publishing stories about people helping each other. You will find those stories in every single issue. People helping, feeding, clothing, teaching, sharing with others. Volunteers donating time, money, and expertise, others

sharing a shoulder for support or comfort. It’s heartening, when so much of everything else feels like an argument about how bad we’re going to let society get before people look at others who don’t look, think, talk, or worship like they do and still see a person. That is Phil the Weatherman’s first lesson. He learns to actually see other people. Not as stepping stones or conquests or punchlines, but as fellow human beings. He learns to laugh with them, not at them. Learns to encourage rather than disparage. It’s not an accident. This is the first step Phil has to take. He has to get over himself before he can help anyone else. I think, one way or another, that’s a lesson we all have to learn. Until we learn it, history— like that ominous alarm clock on Phil’s side table—will just keep repeating the same lessons.

of SCC & South County

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year when you will be 100 years old?” Phyllis commented, “If you think this was a party, wait ‘til next year!”

Some may worry about getting to the magic 100 years of age, but not Phyllis. She told the club that she looked forward to having many more birthdays to celebrate with her friends at the club. We are all looking forward to another birthday party for her at the Mexican Train Club next year!

Sun City Center, FL 33573-6212.

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Contributors: Frank Kepley, Garry Higgins, Bob Monahan, Peggy Burgess, Joanne Baskinger, Debbie Caneen, John Lampkin, Cathy Meyerhoff, Judy Cesarski and Ron Clark. (CA President).

Dance continued from page 1. hair and glitzy black and white dress. The other dancers in the Ballroom set followed in their perfect and flowing steps!

Chinese dancing shined with Michelle Broecher and Yuping Huang in “Butterfly Lovers” –Their outfits were as magical as their dancing.

The World of Dance is an international venue so Sun City Center, while a small format, is part of a much bigger venue recognized in Europe and beyond. There are World of Dance competitions on the web, in video format and in Los Vegas! Mega millions are made off the shows.

Our venue is small but no less the entertainment to our community. I have not received a tally of the sales for last night, but the room and the parking lot were full! If you get a chance to go next year, take a few friends. It will be a night to talk about!

I made new friends last night at my table, including David and Francine Webb, of Sun City Center, married for 25-years and attending for the first time.

I asked David why they attended last night, and he said, “my wife bought tickets.”

An honest man! They were both staying for the Line Dance Fun teaching fun and then the Latin Fitness Dancing Classes, Line Dancing Fun Classes, and Ballroom Dancing Classes. Proceeds for the dance went to funding Phase 18 of

the Master Plan (pool and restaurant). Special thanks to Nancy McCall and Nancy Finley for their excellent Committee work and to Cindy Rohr, Master of Ceremony.

David & Francine Webb

Clark double dipping his partner, Bernice

Michelle Broecher & Yuping Huang Chinese Dancers

Mike & Lee Henson Line Dance Fun

Sally Finley

CarFit Coming to SCC

February 4, from 8:20 to 10:20 a.m.

With the help of the certified Gannon Students, you will be able to stay in your car and be assisted to ensure you have your mirrors, seat and steering wheel in the proper locations. Reservations are required and can be made by calling (813) 508-7155. Please take a moment to confirm you have your auto set up properly to ensure your safety!

SCC-KP Singles Dating Group Coming events!

February 1, 2025 we will car pool to Water Works Park, Tampa, for a Chinese New Year Celebration. 11:30 am to 4 p.m. “THE YEAR OF THE SNAKE”. The event is free. The celebration includes an array of performances, including traditional Chinese dancing, Peking Opera, and dramatic lion and dragon dances. Attendees can also enjoy martial arts demonstrations and music performed on traditional Chinese instruments. Ed and Patti are leading the event.. Meet at Winn Dixie parking lot at 10:30 a.m. at the SR-674 side. It is customary for the riders to contribute $5 to the driver for gas, parking and other expenses.

Future planned social events:

February 23, 2025 A Valentine Party

March 30, 2025 St Patrick/Irish Party

April 27, 2025 Old fashion BBQ Cookout

SCC Audubon Club Meeting

February 1, at 9:15 a.m.

The Weedon Island Preserve in northeastern St. Petersburg was once a vacation home for the late 19th Century Tampa physician Dr. Leslie Weedon and his wife Blanche. At the time, it was only a true island at high tide. Today, it is a 3,190 acre peninsula and natural area on Tampa Bay, home to a biodiverse aquatic and Florida uplands ecosystem of animals and plants.

The Sun City Center Audubon Club will host Dr. Bill Fehring, Ph.D., current President of the Friends of Weedon Island. He will give a presentation about some of the shorebirds common to the island at the club’s meeting, Saturday, February 1st, at the South Campus Community Center on South Pebble Beach Boulevard. His lecture will include an introductory video about the history of the preserve, before he starts discussing “Weedon Island Wading Birds - Who, What, When, Where and Why.”

Prior to the start of Dr. Fehring’s presentation, members can enjoy coffee, pastries and socializing from 9:15 until 10 a.m. Club business will be briefly discussed, followed by the Weedon Island Preserve talk and video. Members are reminded to bring their Community Association ID with them to the meeting.

Club members can sign up before or after the meeting, for the scheduled field trip to Weedon Island Preserve on Thursday, February 13th. Weedon Island has a series of boardwalks and trails for birding, guided hikes and wildlife photography. It also has a cultural and natural history center that introduces visitors to the rich history and archaeology of the surrounding area, as well as yearly events and classes.

Dr. Fehring is an environmental scientist and received his graduate degree from Cornell University in New York. He has worked at Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium in Sarasota. He was also Director of Environmental Affairs at the Tampa Port Authority. In addition, he has worked for several well-known engineering firms in our area.

COMMUNITY

Eagle Audubon Meeting

Monday, February 17, at 1 p.m.

St Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. Barbara Walker, manager of Moccasin Lake Nature Park will present her program “Global Raptors”. She’ll have with her an osprey, barn owl, and peregrine falcon to illustrate the importance of raptors to global ecology. Free and open to everyone.

Southshore Women’s Luncheon

New Day, New Location

Tuesday, February 11, doors open at 11 a.m.

St. Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 Del Webb W.

All women are invited to a Ladies’ Luncheon. Doors open at 11; the program runs from 11:30 - 1:30. Let’s wear RED too! “Follow Your Heart” is the luncheon theme hosted by the SouthShore Women’s Connection. Our Feature will be Michelle Mason, presenting Wrap Around Care.

Our Guest Speaker, Kay Newsome will share her “Renovation of the Heart”. You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by our local caterer for only $22 (including a full salad bar and dessert!). As always, we will have fun door prizes for you to take home.

Reservations and payments are required by February 6. Please call Nancy to make your reservation at 813-454-5509 or email her at “mndecker1971@yahoo.com”; send your $22 check, payable to Stonecroft Ministries to Nancy Decker, 5203 Admiral Pointe Dr., Apollo Beach, FL 33572. Please let us know if you are a first-time guest so we can have a gift ready for you. Check us out at Stonecroft. org. We look forward to seeing you at the luncheon.

South Shore SAR to Host Luncheon

Saturday, February 8 • The Plaza Club, 3932 Upper Creek Drive

The South Shore Chapter Sons of the American Revolution will host a luncheon. Social time will begin at 11:30 with luncheon at noon. All members, spouses, and guests are welcome to attend. For reservations, please respond by February 4, contact William Simms at “wmsimms1@gmail.com” or call (309) 826-6554.

Award-Winning Author Mark Barie will discuss the results of his research on the American Revolution, in a presentation titled: “Seven Facts About the Revolutionary War that will Amaze You!”

Barie’s novels on love and war have earned state, national, and international recognition. Most recently, his War of 1812 love story was awarded a bronze medal for military fiction by the Independent Publishers Group. This organization’s writing competition attracts more than five thousand authors from all over the United States, Canada, and a dozen countries in Europe.

The South Shore Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution (www.sssar.org) -- a patriotic organization of descendants of Revolutionary War Patriots -- welcomes visitors from southeastern Hillsborough and northern Manatee counties.

Community continued from page 4.

Hold the Date — Tuesday, April 15

The Sun City Center/South Shore Lions request you hold the date of Tuesday, April 15, 2025, for a special celebration. What is the celebration: The Lions chartered their club 40 years ago on April 15, 1985, and began providing humanitarian service to those in need in our community. The Celebration will be held in the Kings Point South Clubhouse at 12 noon. More information will be forthcoming closer to the date.

South Shore Democrats Club

Thursday, February 6, at 1 p.m.

St Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W Del Webb Blvd.

All like-minded people are welcome. This week: Stress Management and Self-Care: Empowering Ourselves for a Healthier Tomorrow. Do you have election blues? Come to our program to learn what you can do for your own well-being. Join us for an engaging presentation by Pattie Schreiber where we’ll explore practical strategies for managing stress and prioritizing self-care. Let’s come together to support each other and build a healthier, more resilient community. Light refreshments will be served. Help with voter registration and Vote By Mail renewals will be available. Info: “southshoredemocrats. org” or “SSDmembership@gmail.com”.

On January 12, SCC DBA launched the annual mentor/mentee program with 44 players registered to participate. Program organizer Linda Duhn describes the program as pairing players who want to up their game with more experienced players who can help them improve. Experienced players providing guidance, support and knowledge transfer to less experienced players. The program runs January through March with the expectation mentors and mentees will play together two times a month for the duration of the program.

Feline Folks Jewelry Sale Fundraiser

Wednesday, February 12, from 10 to 1 p.m.

Kings Point North Clubhouse Banquet Room

Feline Folks is excited to announce their next highly popular Jewelry Sale Fundraiser. Entry is a $5 donation at the door or a donation of a gently used piece of jewelry. The items for sale start at $3. 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 rehoming 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 and transporting cats to veterinary appointments. For more information contact Feline Folks via Email: Info@FelineFolks.us –“felinefolks.us” or Facebook “felinefolksofsuncitycenter”.

FBI Agent Speaks to AAUW

Betsy Donley will be speaker at AAUW February meeting on Feb. 8 at Sun City Center Atrium Florida Room. Light brunch food and social time is at 9:30 a.m. and meeting starts at 10 a.m. She will focus on scams that too many people have fallen for with some drastic results. Reservations can be made by calling Margie Castiglia at 813-633-8253 or email at “margidee817@gmail.com”. Betsy Conley has been with the FBI Tampa Field Office since 2015 and has served as the Community Outreach Specialist since 2020. In this role, she works closely with public, local, federal, and state government agencies, community partners, community leaders and school districts to enhance public awareness of the FBI mission and its efforts within the 18 counties that the Tampa Field Office serves. She also provides insights on current crime trends related to FBI’s work, offering valuable information on emerging issues. She is a graduate of the University of Tampa and worked as a Client Relations Manager at a law firm in Tampa prior to joining the FBI.

Community continued on page 6.

SCC Duplicate Bridge Association Mentor Program

Kindred Spirits Meeting

We are so excited to have Dinah Allison speaking at this meeting. Dinah is a functional nutritionist who runs a weekly class at Sun Towers. Her approach combines environment, lifestyle, biochemistry, with diet to bring next level care. If you made the commitment to yourself to live cleaner, this is a must attend meeting. If you are looking for a group of ladies that has fun, please reach out. We meet the first Wednesday of every month in the Waterside Room at Kings Point from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Game Day!

February 27, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Sun Towers Retirement Community

Come join us for Game Day! We have purchased adaptive equipment to make playing your traditional games easy to do. Everything from Bingo to Monopoly will be available. Can’t see, too fast, no problem! Get out and come play with us! We meet on the 4th Thursday of every month and have T-shirts for winners. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

Left Center Right Club

First and third Saturday of every month, 2 to 4 p.m. Kings Point East Social Room

Remember Left Center Right? That fun game in which three quarters and three dice can win you untold riches? Well it’s here at Kings Point! We offer both the traditional games as well as LCR Extreme! created by our own Rick Miles. BYOE! Snacks to share are always welcome. If you are coming in from outside Kings Point let the guard know you are here for LCR. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

New

Location for Galaxy Bridge

Luncheon

Thursday, February 7, at 11 a.m.

Galaxy Bridge Luncheons will now meet in the Caper Room in the North Community Center Building this year. Dues are still only $10 for the year and lunches are $15. Please pay with exact change or checks. For reservations or cancellations, call Kathie at 410-375-6363 or Lois at 813-633-6484. If you leave a voicemail, one of them will call you back to confirm. Cancellation deadline is Sunday, February 2. Our group is open to all women of Sun City Center, Freedom Plaza and Kings Point gold card members who are interested in social bridge.

Kiwanis of South Shore “Valentine Tea”

Saturday, February 15, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Kiwanis Club of Southshore invites you to their annual fundraiser.

The event, “A Valentine Tea” is sponsored by Freedom Plaza. A wonderful afternoon has been planned. Enjoy brewed tea, finger sandwiches, petit fours and other desserts. Vintage tea services will adorn each table. In addition, there will be door prizes and a Grand Gift Basket Raffle. The event will be held at the Plaza Club at Freedom Plaza on Upper Creek Drive and American Eagle Boulevard. Ticket costs are a $25 donation. Tickets are to be purchased in advance. Make checks payable to Kiwanis Club of Southshore and mail to Sharon Braden, 2506 Larkin Drive, Sun City Center, FL 33573, or call her for reservations- Sharon Braden at 724-996-1292. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to Kiwanis Club of SouthShore’s Service Leadership Programs: Terrific Kids at 12 Elementary schools, K-Kids at one Elementary school, Builders Clubs at two Middle Schools, and Key Club at three area High Schools.

Kitchen Masters of SCC

Captain Eric Topole, from Fishin Magician Inshore Charters, was our January meeting guest speaker. As a fishing charter captain, he explained the ins and outs of local fishing. He reported that we have a variety of edible fish right here in Tampa Bay. After his interesting and informative lecture, all members and guests got to taste three types of local fish and an assortment of seasonal sides and desserts.

Multicultural Heritage Club Black History Program

February 14, from 2 to 4 p.m.

The MHC’s Black History Month program theme is African Americans and Labor. We will gather in the Florida Room of the Atrium Building at 945 North Course Lane, Sun City Center from 2-4 p.m. Admission is free and we invite club members and non-members alike. There will be music and displays, a skit, a panel discussion, poetry and refreshments. African attire is very welcome. You may RSVP to: 813400-3480.

Men’s Club Monthly Meeting

February 19, at 11 a.m.

SCC Community Hall

Edwin Gonzalez-Gertz, Senior Minister Saint Andrew Presbyterian Church will be speaking at the February 19 Men’s Club luncheon. He will be speaking about the opportunities and challenges of elders. Some people describe Sun City Center and similar communities as “God’s waiting room.” In his presentation, Gonzalez-Gertz will argue against this by re-visiting the stages of life, dwelling in the “golden years.” We will be reminded of the new opportunities and challenges we face as elders and specifically the role faith and spirituality can play in this difficult, yet significant stage in life. As we all know, “we are not old, we are classics.” Admission $20, buffet lunch included.

SCC Charitable Foundation Estate Planning Seminar

Wednesday, February, 26, from 10 to noon

Atrium, Florida Room, 1009 N. Pebble Beach

We are pleased to invite you to an exclusive seminar on Financial Estate Planning hosted by the SCC Charitable Foundation. Whether you’re looking to secure your legacy or gain valuable insights on managing wealth for future generations, this seminar is designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about your financial future. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how you can protect and grow your wealth, while ensuring a lasting legacy. Light refreshments will be served. To RSVP and for questions or additional information, please call Angie Maze at 813-505-8998 or Patsie Ginley at 954-258-5714 or by email “patsieginley@aol.com”. We look forward to seeing you there!

GFWC Sun City Center Woman’s Club

Thursday, February 20, doors open at 11 a.m.

SCC Community Hall

Buffet lunch and program will follow. Optional attire for this meeting is a Mardi Gras theme-bright colors, beads, and masks. The program will feature a Hillsborough County Representative who will educate us on our trash. Learn about what you can recycle and what you need to do to help the environment by recycling. The Health and Wellness committee features a representative from the Freedom to Walk Foundation who discusses how to identify “foot drop”. Optional activities will feature learning some new table games: Uno, Left Right Center, Phase 10, Bunco, Dominoes, etc. All members attending the meeting need to make a reservation in advance by 11 a.m. on Monday, February 17, 2025. Please email “suncitywomansclub@gmail.com” if you will be attending and if you are planning to eat lunch. A catered buffet for $20 is to be paid at check-in. More information will be provided to the club members in the February newsletter.

The club welcomes new members from Sun City Center and surrounding communities, and applications can be found on our website “sccwomansclub.org”. Carina Faneuf, membership chair, can be reached at sccwcmembership.com or by phone at 727-5100123, if you have any questions. We are part of GFWC, a national organization, and are exempt from SCCCA guest fees (Kings Point Gold Card is not needed).

If you are interested in joining us next month, the theme of our February meeting (Saturday, February 15, at 3 p.m.) will be foods of Egypt! We have a member who will demonstrate all kinds of Mediterranean foods and spices! At our March meeting (March 15th at 3 pm), we will explore the food traditions of Passover. The Kitchen Masters club of SCC is open to all SCC members, Freedom Plaza members and Kings Point Members with a KP Club Usage Card. Dues are $25 annually. Meetings are held from 3 pm - 6 pm on the third Saturday of each month in the Eberhardt room (North Campus next to the lawn bowling greens). For further information you can contact Maria Hodge at 856-981-9992 or reach out at Facebook (Kitchenmasters Of SCC)

SCC Mah Jongg

Tuesday, February 25, from 10 to noon

Atrium Sandpiper Room

Sun City Center Mah Jongg Club will be giving a set of six lessons. Lessons will be from 10-12 in the Atrium, Sandpiper Room 945-E North Course Lane, SCC, FL. Cost is $20 which includes the dues to the MJ Club of SCC. Please call Eileen Spector at 813-416-2926 to register. Please RSVP so we know how many Beginners and how many Refreshers we have coming.

SCC Men’s Club Learns About Low Vision Services

By Jay Sparkman

The Sun City Center Men’s Club guest speakers at the monthly members’ luncheon were representatives from the Florida State Division of Blind Services and Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision. Anna Garcia explained the services and funding provided by the Florida Division of Blind Services. Michelle Sharpe told of the various means the Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision can help the visually impaired - from young children to senior citizens - gain independence. Tom Swanston of the Lighthouse spoke about how donations can be made to the Lighthouse to help provide services to those in need. The SCC Men’s Club is one of the leading service clubs in Sun City Center and is a sponsor of the Low Vision Support Group that meets monthly. The SCC Men’s Club is open to residents of Sun City Center CA and Kings Point. For more information call Bruce Fraser, 813 419 4013.

News of Freedom Plaza

By Peggy Burgess

Hold-over holiday hustle lasted through January at Freedom Plaza as clubs and special interest groups hurried to get their 2025 events on the activities calendar. This rush was precipitated by the abundant creativity and initiative demonstrated by the resident membership of those groups. Coupled with the attractions anticipated from Freedom Plaza Management, these myriad events promise to make 2025 a most exciting year!

That excitement began on January 23 with a Joe Birnbaum comedy, “Yes Dears”, voicing the phrase common to married men everywhere beginning with Adam and echoing through history. The wacky Way, Way Off-Broadway troupe were at their hilarious best.

The show was a benefit for the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund, Inc., its Board of Directors, one extremely busy special interest group with a “bumper-crop” of employee applications expected this year. (Last year the Fund awarded thirty $3,000 scholarships)! March will bring yet another occasion for folks to have fun for the Fund…and raise money for grants: an-on-going project. This time, however, the fun will be outdoors with the first-ever

Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament. Open to the public, the event will feature the round of play on Freedom Fairways, capped with a sumptuous Celebratory Party at the Plaza Club. For information on participation non-residents may call (813) 633-4653 during business hours.

For folks who prefer indoor entertainment—plus a delightfully different dose of history— the Freedom Plaza History Club is staging, on March 29, “Revenge for Persephone”.

Utilizing reader’s theater mode, members of the club will relate a preposterous, but true-to-fact, tale concerning this ancient Grecian goddess. Remaining —theatrically, at least-- in ancient Greece until next Fall, the Scholarship Fund will, then, provide its all-resident Board of Directors the thrill (?) of “making fools of themselves for a good cause” as they take the stage in comic roles for yet another fundraiser, a play called “It’s Greek to Me.” In it, Penelope waits (or does she?) for Ulysses to return from his ten-year-long hiatus to antique Aegean man-caves. In between Grecian on-stage adventures a mystery dinner play at the Plaza Club is on tap for June!

Yes, indeed! A Happy New Year is on the horizon at Freedom Plaza!

L to R: Elliott Bart, President, SCC Men’s Club; Ed Barnes, VP Programs; Anna Garcia, Florida Div. of Blind Services; Michelle Sharpe, Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision; Tom Swanston, Lighthouse for the Blind and Low Vision; Vicente Lopez, VP Health Care.

The Men Who’ve Kept Mitch Rapp Alive

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

Back in 2013, the reading world suffered a huge loss—political thriller author Vince Flynn left this world after a struggle with prostate cancer. While there is no salve for the loss, there is a silver lining.

“Vince was such a dream writer,” said David Brown, his longtime publicist at Atria books. “He was so genuine, so collaborative, so trusting—great for a publicist to work with.” By way of example, Brown told me, “one year we had this idea for a contest: ‘Receive a call from Vince Flynn.’” Flynn didn’t like the idea, but went along with it. The team solicited phone numbers from Flynn’s fans and “one evening, Vince went down the list calling them.” Turns out he had fun. He may have enjoyed it as much as the fans he called!

“He was so young, just 47. He would still be writing these books. It’s so tragic. So much is so tragic,” Brown said.

After more than a dozen “installments” in the Mitch Rapp series, the author--“who didn’t plan or intend to pass away— had no thoughts on who might continue the series. The good news for readers is that Flynn’s wife, Lysa; his family; his agent, Sloan Harris; and his editor, Emily Bestler, decided the series would continue. [So] Bestler set out to find a writer.

Mills and Bentley agree, in Bentley’s words, “Emily Bestler and Sloan Harris are the gatekeepers to Vince’s legacy. Bestler,” he added, “discovered Flynn and edited all of his books!”

Mills, who was chosen to continue the series, told me, he “had hoped someone was finishing” Flynn’s series. He’d previously “written a few books for Robert Ludlum and—as a fan of Flynn’s—” he said, “I thought I’d throw my hat in!”

Having read the entire Rapp series (and the first 100 or so pages of the next thriller, Survivor), then rereading them, he had hundreds of pages of notes. He had some ideas of where to go, but ultimately, his objective was “to create a forgery, to write the book Flynn himself would have written.”

He had signed on for three books, and ended up signing on for three more than another three. He “developed the character, gave him a girlfriend and a daughter of sorts.”

Not only had he accomplished his objective, he told me “it was most rewarding getting to know all of Vince’s fans.” He had expected to get all kinds of hate mail telling him things like “we don’t want this continued; Mitch Rapp should die with Vince,” but that didn’t happen. The fans loved it, were supportive, and even offered constructive criticism if they had any criticism at all. We all wanted to see Vince’s legacy live on!”

“It was an incredible honor,” to

take on the series, “Vince was a great guy with great fans. It was a terrific opportunity! I will be forever grateful!”

So why step down? Why pass the torch?

Kind of like the idea for this article I’ve had bouncing around in my head for a few years, Mills told me, “There was this character I had introduced almost 20 years ago [in his thriller, Fade] “bouncing around in my head and I can’t seem to shut him up.” In that thriller, he had left the character for dead and he wanted to get back to him.”

About Mitch Rapp, he said, “I’d evolved the character. I felt I’d completed the arc. [So] I decided to leave.”

Kyle Mills has penned nine books in the series since the death of Flynn. As a devotee of the series, I can say they are faithful to the vision of Flynn. As the news anchors like to say about two who are in agreement on policy or perspective, “there is no daylight” between the work of Flynn and that of Mills.

Now that Mills would be “stepping away, the torch would be passed to Don Bentley. The two authors—Mills and Bentley are, coincidentally, friends and colleagues in the political thriller genre. But “their friendship had nothing to do with the passing of the torch. In fact, the two sat at dinner one night before it was made public that Mills had stepped away to work on his own books and Bentley had stepped up—neither knew what the other knew,” publicity director David Brown told me. “Nothing had been made public, yet, so both men talked around the issue.”

Once it had been made public, Bentley joined Mills in touring his latest (and last) Mitch Rapp book. The Farewell Tour of Mills and the Debut of Bentley as the new author of the series gave fans a chance to say “goodbye” and “hello” to both

authors.

Bentley’s first Rapp book, which came out this past Fall, is set in time between Flynn’s “Pursuit of Honor” and “Extreme Measures.” The book, “Capture or Kill,” fills in some gaps to cover the time between those two books.

Unlike Flynn and Mills, Bentley has a military and law enforcement background. “I was an Apache helicopter pilot, an FBI special agent, and a swat guy,” he told me.

“I loved Vince Flynn and the Mitch Rapp series! Through the 90s, military thrillers were about the Cold War. Vince was the first to capture that sea change [from the Cold War to terrorism in the new millennium]. Mitch Rapp had a singular mission: to unabashedly hunt down terrorists and shoot them in the face!”

Bentley was a fan first. He was posted in Bagram and during his time there he had read the Mitch Rapp books and loved them.

The author of The Gray Man series, “Mark Greaney, who wrote with [Tom] Clancy and was the first to write in ‘Clancy Universe’ after Clancy died”— coincidentally also in 2013--”

had told Bentley, “‘If you get an opportunity to write on one of these legacy series, it’s the publishing industry’s way of putting their stamp of approval on you—you’re dependable, on time, and you tell a good story!”

He also told him, “There are three things [at least two of which] you have to do: “be a good writer, finish your book on time, and be easy for a publisher to work with.”

Of Flynn, Bentley says, “he’s my all-time favorite writer. That’s convenient, but it’s true. All of us who write in this genre take something from what Vince did. Mitch Rapp is unique. Normally you see the devolution of a character, a study in depravity.” Mitch Rapp does do bad things to bad people, but his moral compass never changes! The Mitch Rapp series is more reflective of that world view.”

Of himself, Bentley says, “I’m not that guy,” he said, but “I’ve stood in rooms with men —men and women--who actually could be heroes and protagonists in these books!”

Unlike working within Clancy Universe, “working in Flynn’s universe is more like being a partner in a small family business. Vince’s legacy still weighs on them. They want the right person to continue the Mitch Rapp series,” not just any writer.

“A writer in a series like this has to ask him- or herself, “Do I have something new to bring and more stories to tell? When I no longer feel I have a new story to tell, it’ll be my time to move on!” I can’t recommend this series highly enough!!

Beth Israel Sisterhood Explores

How to Have a Safer Home

Tuesday, February 4, at 1 p.m.

Beth Israel’s Social Hall, 1115 Del Webb Blvd, East.

Dr. Victoria Reinhartz, an expert in mobile health and paramedic training, will conduct the presentation, followed by questions from the audience. You don’t need to be a member of Beth Israel to join the Sisterhood. Sisterhood is a great way to meet other women and share fun times while watching, and participating in, interesting programs. Future programs include “Thrifty Fashionista Competition,” Women’s Passover Luncheon, and Lunch/Installation of Officers. For information about the meeting, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.

Military News

Attention all Military Veterans and Spouses

The next meeting of the Sun City Center American Legion Post 246 will be held on Friday, February 21, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 3, CA Community Hall,1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd., SCC.

Our guest speaker will be Wilfredo Florez, USCG Senior Chief (Ret.), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Outreach Program Specialist, Tampa Vet Center. His presentation will include what the organization is, its services and core benefits, and how their free support can be obtained on an individually programmed basis.

Coffee and donuts will be available at 9 a.m. All veterans and spouses are welcome. For information call Paul Wheat at 813-3917309 or email at “pawheatjr@aol.com”.

U.S. Naval Academy Leader Presents to Silver Ospreys

By Tom Harding, CO, Silver Ospreys Squadron $64

Recently, the Silver Ospreys Squadron #64, Association of Naval Aviation in Sun City Center, FL, received a presentation from Thomas J. Grady, CAPT, USN (Ret.). Captain Grady is a graduate of the US Naval Academy, class of 1996. He spent over 26 years in Naval Aviation where he amassed more than 3,000 hours in the P-3C Orion and P-8A Poseidon. He served as the Commanding Officer of the VP-45 “Pelicans” and the VP-30 “Pro’s Nest.” His shore assignments included duty as the Deputy Commandant of Midshipmen (2017 to 2019). In January 2023 the United States Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation named Captain Grady as its new Executive Vice President, Engagement and Communications.

Captain Grady described the P-8 Poseidon patrol aircraft and its mission in considerable detail. The P-8A Poseidon is the U.S. Navy’s multi-mission maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft conducting long-range anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare, intelligence, and surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR). The P-8A Poseidon is the replacement aircraft for the P-3C Orion. When the first deliveries of P-8 aircraft were deployed, NAS Jacksonville was one of the early Naval Aviation Stations to receive them. The transition from the P-3 Orion to the P-8 Poseidon was relatively swift and without incident. The location of NAS Jacksonville is strategically important to the protection of key shipping lanes of the East Coast of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the Caribbean Sea. Captain Grady was fortunate to be on the leading edge of this deployment of the P-8 Poseidons.

Because his new assignment is at the USNA, at the conclusion of the meeting a few of the attendees were inclined to give a sendoff to Captain Grady of “Go Navy, Beat Army!”

FAITH &service

Strawberry Social

St. Andrew Presbyterian Church is hosting its 3rd Annual Strawberry Social on Sunday, February 16 from 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Visitors will enjoy an old-fashioned dessert with fresh-picked strawberries, cake, real whipped cream, homemade strawberry sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Strawberry trivia with prizes will be presented. Tickets can be purchased at St. Andrew Church office, 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. in Sun City Center. Hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. They will also be available at 11:30 a.m. on Sundays. Tickets are two for $12 or $7 each. Door prizes will include one half-flat of strawberries from Plant City and two “Strawberry Festival” tickets. Proceeds will benefit charities and missions. For more information contact Deborah at 404-808-5062 or “dkwlson58@gmail.com”.

Eagle Audubon Wins Statewide Award

Eagle Audubon Society, the South Hillsborough chapter of the National Audubon Society, has been presented with the Outstanding Conservation Project Award by Audubon Florida. This recognizes the work that Eagle Audubon conducted on a stormwater retention pond in Kings Point, which is home to 5,500 units with 9,000 to 10,000 residents, three 9-hole golf courses, and many ponds. All the ponds are interconnected and used for lawn and golf course irrigation. All drain to the south and the drainage culminates in one pond at the southern boundary of Kings Point. From there, the water drains out of the neighborhood to a tributary of the Little Manatee River, an “Outstanding Florida Water.” The Little Manatee River flows into Tampa Bay and into the nearby marshes and streams. The plan was to improve the system of ponds by planting native plants in and around the ponds. Because the stormwater ponds had been neglected for the past several years, the shoreline vegetation and littoral shelf were choked with torpedo grass, almost eliminating native vegetation. There was very little habitat for nesting birds and native fish populations were depleted. Water quality was degraded and nutrient-heavy due to the use of pesticides and fertilizers, especially on the golf courses. By removing the torpedo grass

and planting hardy native plants, not only was habitat for birds and other wildlife restored, but the pond can become a cleansing marsh area, increasing the filtration of nitrogen, other inorganic nutrients, and sediments before draining into Little Manatee River and Tampa Bay’s marshes and open water. The project also serves as a teaching tool for residents of Kings Point, providing information on the importance of water quality control for the environment. In early summer, the plants arrived, and the planting was completed. So far, the plants are thriving, and birds have already moved into these newly planted areas, which previously had provided no decent habitat for them. Evidence indicates that fish numbers are improving as well. Eagle Audubon meets at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1239 West Del Webb Blvd, Sun City Center, on the third Monday of each month from October through April, with speakers on a variety of conservation topics. We also conduct field trips to areas of ecological interest. All are welcome at our meetings. Doors open at 1:00 for a social time and the meeting and program starts at around 1:30. There is no charge for attending. Check out our website “eagleaudubonflorida.org” or on Facebook at “facebook. com/eagle1984”.

Hanson Services

Sheila Benter with her husband Harry Benter, CAPT USN (Ret.); CAPT Thomas J Grady, USN (Ret.), Rebecca Hill with her husband Leo Hill, CDR USN (Ret.), and Dick Petrucci, CAPT USN (Ret.).

PERFORMINGARTS

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.

A Pencil of God — Save the Date!

March 25, from 11:30 to 3 p.m.

Conesa Center at Prince of Peace • 702 Valley Forge Boulevard

A Pencil of God – Making Mountains Move Premieres March 25

Featuring Professional Actor Jeanne Naish as the Mother of the Poor

This original one act play is the story of a petite woman who became a giant on the world stage. From a small village in the Ottoman Empire, this woman traveled the known world.

It tells the tale of how she went from being a beggar to one of the most recognized people on the planet. It explains her motivation to help the poorest of the poor. She became known affectionately as the Mother of the Poor. She challenged monarchs and heads of government to underwrite her projects.

Jeanne Naish, well-known professional actor through her appearances with the Pelican Players, will portray this extraordinary person. A light lunch will be offered. There will be a raffle for three baskets as well as a 50/50 raffle. Additionally, a silent auction will give attendees an opportunity to obtain a framed copy of “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci.

Tickets may be obtained for a donation of $20 and will be on sale in Conesa Center Lobby at 702 Valley Forge Boulevard from 8:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. February 25, February 27 and 28, March 4, March 7, March 11, March 14, March 18, March 20 and March 21. You MUST have a ticket to attend.

Proceeds from the sale of tickets will be used by St. Vincent de Paul Society to benefit the homeless in our community. This event is open to the public. You will be inspired and challenged!

Ballet for Seniors

The Ballet for Seniors club performed for the Organ club on December 15 and at Aston Gardens on December 19. The girls did their rendition of Memories from the play Cats.

Kings Point Art Show

“Dance of Light and Shadow” • February 27 & 28, 10 to 4 p.m.

This much-anticipated event will be held in the Kings Point North Clubhouse, Banquet Room. The exhibition will showcase an array of artistic expressions, highlighting the interplay between light and shadow through various mediums. This show will captivate and inspire all attendees, providing a unique experience for art enthusiasts and newcomers. This is free and open to everyone. Your presence would be greatly valued, and we look forward to celebrating this artistic journey together.

DANCING

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Friday, February 14, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach

Bring your sweetheart out on Valentine’s Day and dance to the music of Nightbreakers. An upcoming Tampa Bay favorite hot band. Open to all surrounding communities. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to12, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, February 10,12,14 and at the door on February 14. Doors open at 6 p.m. (Ticket sales will end promptly at 7 p.m.). Tickets $5 members and $10 nonmembers. BYOB. We have tables reserved for singles and a 50/50 raffle. You can purchase a yearly membership for $35. Please bring nonperishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. For more information email, “bgocek1@gmail.com”,”jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

Dance & Celebrate Valentine’s Day

February 8, from 7 to 9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

The Sun City Center Dance Club is holding a Valentine’s Day Dance on February 8 with proceeds going to The Hope Fund, a local not-for-profit organization that helps local at-risk children. To help you celebrate, there will be chocolates on all the tables and you will have the chance to win 1 of 2 baskets full of sweets to take home! BYOB to share with your friends. Our favorite DJ couple Mike & Peg will be playing old greats like Frank Sinatra as well as contemporary artists to cover all types of dances like waltz, foxtrot, east & west coast swing, hustle, nightclub 2, bolero, chacha, country 2-step & more--including a few line dances--which are always fun to try out.

SCC Dance Club members attend free with all others paying only $6 at the door. Singles are always welcome. Who knows, perhaps you will find a new sweetheart! Wear your nice red or pink Valentine’s Day attire or come casual, if you prefer. For questions or additional information, please call Sue Hicks at 813-633-6682.

Dancing continued on page 11.

continues. The month of February brings us Shakes Society on Feb. 7 at 7 p.m., $20. They will present a Blast of Brass! Performing the best classic dance music of our lives including, The Blues Brothers Revue. You’re sure to be moving and grooving.

Then on Sunday Feb. 23 at 2:30 p.m., $20, straight from Branson Mo. Pierce Arrow presents Decades, this award-winning show is a must see! A one-of-a-kind musical and comedy journey through the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s. There will be an opportunity for you to have a picture with the band for a fee.

On February 26, you can enjoy an evening of laughter with Three Comics and A Dog at 7 p.m., $10, this is a BYOB show, so bring along your favorite snacks and beverages.

Watch for more information to follow on a newly added show on March 30 at 2:30 p.m. $20. “A Decade of Soul”, Broadway’s Original “live” Motown & 70’s Classic Soul Tribute Band.

All shows will be held at The Community Hall 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center. Tickets can be purchased Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at the Atrium Kiosk 945 N. Course Lane, Sun City Center, 10 to noon. Cash or check only. If you have any additional questions, please contact Judy Cesarski, Activities Director, at “activities@suncitycenter.org” or 813-642-2001.

Dancing continued from page 10.

Come Dance With Us

February 2, doors open at 6 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater

Dancing from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Music provided by LB & Chloe with all genres of music. All are welcome to attend. Come celebrate Valentine’s Day! BYOB with water and ice provided. Cost is $5 paid at the door. Questions??? Call Ken 513-582-8449 or Rosemary 513258-8238.

NY Club Valentine’s Dinner Dance

Monday, February 10, at 5 p.m. • Kings Point Veterans Theater

Food by Banquet Masters which includes a large salad bar, chicken parmesan, onion crusted salmon, lasagna with meat, veggies, large dessert bar, iced tea and coffee. Music by LB & Chloe. We have a singles table. Members only $25 and guests are $28.50. For further information, please contact Frank Gatto at 813 633-8942.

Social Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons

Mondays, February 3, 10, 17, 24

4 p.m. – Silver Foxtrot

5 p.m. – Intermediate 3 Nightclub Two-Step

6 p.m. – Beginning Intermediate Country Two-Step

7 p.m. – Beginning Salsa

Location: St. John the Divine Episcopal Church, Parish Hall, 1015 East Del Webb Blvd. Sun City Center. Contact: Bernice DuBro (dancewithbernice@gmail.com). Cell: 813-482-6784. Cost: 4 weeks of classes for $30/person. All are invited to attend. No extra fees for residents of Kings Point or outside of SCC Community.

Do

You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday, February 22, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach

Come on out and dance to the sounds of Luna & The Warriors. A Tampa based rock band with powerful modern rock originals and every shade of rock covers. Open to all surrounding communities.

Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to12, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, February 17,19,21 and at the door on February 22. Doors open at 6 p.m. (Ticket sales will end promptly at 7 p.m.).

Tickets $5 members and $10 nonmembers. BYOB. We have tables reserved for singles and a 50/50 raffle. You can purchase a yearly membership for $35. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. For more information email, “bgocek1@gmail.com,” or “jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

Kings Point Dance Club

40th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance

Wednesday, February 12, doors open 5 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater 1900 Clubhouse Drive

Dinner 5:30 p.m. Dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. Ballroom Music by: Dan Fugazzotto. All KP, SCC, singles and guests are welcome. Dress code, dressy, no shorts. BYOB. Members free, guests $5. Dance only. If you have questions call Eileen 813-296-4038.

Senior Dance Group Valentines Dance

Thursday, February 13, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

St. John Divine Episcopal Church, 1015 Del Webb East

These dances are always open to everyone and admission is $6/ person payable at the door. Come and enjoy music of the 50’s & 60’s with all types of dances featuring entertainer Thor Stevens and his keyboard and sax. Dressy/casual attire, no shorts or jeans please. Singles Tables available.

BYOB, ice, set-ups and snacks/munchies, nothing furnished. For more info call or text Judy Furman, (813) 606-1233 or email “judyannfurman@gmail.com”

Groundhog Ball

Saturday, February 1, from 7 to 9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. Your DJ’s will be Mike and Peg. And, as a special treat; Bernice DuBro will teach a free Foxtrot dance lesson from 6:30 - 6:45p.m.. Dance to your favorites: Foxtrot, Swing, Cha Cha, Waltz, Country Two Step, a line dance or two, West Coast Swing, Night Club Two Step, etc. Prepare for Groundhog Day by attending the Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club’s Groundhog Ball, a public event where a portion of the proceeds will be donated for local hurricane relief. Dress is smart casual attire, NO shorts! BYOB and snacks. Water and ice will be provided. 2025 Club members are free; everyone else is $6 each. ALL are welcome! For more info, call Peter Steitz at 608609-0309. See you there!

Do You Wanna Dance Donation

The Do You Wanna Dance Club donated $2,800 to the Future Facilities Fund for Phase 1B. The Masterplan is progressing with funds in the bank for phase 1A. Phase 1B which includes a future restaurant and resort style pool is partially funded. Fundraising under the guidance of Director McCall is inspiring clubs to hold events to contribute to the project and Do You Wanna Dance Club came in strong! Many thanks to the leadership of their club for organizing an event that will benefit our community!

fundraiser for the

Requested donation is $10. Dances are from Beginner to Intermediate, with the first hour mostly Beginner dances for all. There will be opportunities for dance requests and room for Partner dancing as well. All are welcome. If you would like any further information please contact Mike Hanson at 408-4069895 or “linedancefunofscc@gmail.com”.

Kathy Kerschke, Barbara Gocek, Shelley Karg, Rainy Bilicki, Margo Lee and Director Nancy McCall

SAT. FEB 1 - OPEN HOUSE AT CLARITY HEARING! JOIN DR. BECKER FOR THIS FUN EVENT!

9:00 A.M. - 12:00 noon at 4040 Upper Creek Drive, Suite 105, Sun City Center. Everyone who attends will be entered into a drawing for a Platinum SoundMind 4-year treatment plan, which includes a set of Starkey Genesis AI 24 RIC rechargeable hearing aids – a $6,999 value. No purchase is necessary, but you must be present to win. The event will also feature live music by acoustic guitarist and singer Tanner Boyle.

THU. FEB 6, 13, 20, 27OPTIMAL WELLNESS HEALTH CLASS! 10:00 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr, SCC. Our speaker shares: “I can’t remember a time when I WASN’T fascinated by the healing properties of food. Indigenous peoples worldwide have used food as medicine for eons...so why don’t we still do that? My classes are free, and I do not sell anything. I am just truly passionate about sharing my knowledge with anyone who

wants to live long and be healthy in this journey called life. Yours in true health, Dinah Allison.”

THU. FEB 6 - CRAFT BEER & WINE CLUB OF SCC “Fermenting Fanatics” 1:30 p.m. Theater Room Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. With Valentine’s Day in February how can we have any other theme but LOVE. We gather to discuss craft beers and wines, enjoy tastings as a club and learn about the process of fermenting along with participating in field trips! If you are interested in craft beer or wine and tasting local offerings, check us out www.facebook.com/ groups/craftbeerandwineclub - Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

SAT. FEB 8 —SIXTH ANNUAL HEARTS & ROSES HIGH TEA

LUNCHEON Doors open at 11:30 a.m. serving begins at noon at the RWC Clubhouse at 503 S US Hwy 41 in Ruskin. Open to the public. Preregistration required; admission is $45 per person by cash, check or credit card. Opportunity baskets and other drawings will be available. To register go to events on the RWC website, “GFWCRuskinWomansClub.org”, or call 813-296-3900 for more information.

FRI. FEB 14 - LOW VISION

SUPPORT GROUP 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the Main Dining Room, Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Low Vision Support Group provides information and resources to the members of the low vision and

blind community. Do you know when Sweethearts first got their shape? The Answer is 1901! Come join us and share. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

MON. FEB 17 - ROAD RALLYSCAVENGER HUNT - FUNdraiser event! 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. The Starting line is in the Atrium Florida Room at 9:00 a.m., where participants will meet, choose a team name, and get instructions. The Finish line is in the Florida Room at 11 a.m. where teams gather back and answers will be announced. The winning teams will receive prizes. $10 tickets will be pre-sold at the Kiosk in the Atrium on Tuesdays and Thursday from 10am–12pm or sold at the door. We recommend teams of 2 or 4. After the race, we can enjoy laughs and have lunch together. Hot dog, chips, cookies & drink for $5.00 per person. Check or cash only. The History Society will have an exhibit on site so you can ask questions about your findings. All proceeds benefit the Future Facilities Fund for Phase 1B. Info: Nancy at 813-394-1267.

MON. FEB 17 – CENTER 4LIFE LEARNING – ETHICS & MORALITY IN A CAPITALIST SYSTEM, 1:00 p.m. on the campus of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. To register for the three-week course: Ethics and Morality in a Capitalist System, $30, register online www.sccumc. com/4lifelearning or at Center 4Life Learning, United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Ave, Sun City Center, with cash, check or credit card. Office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 813-634-8607.

MON. FEB 17 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. This month’s topic: Fall Prevention - Strong & Stable, Confident & Able! Some PD medications can cause involuntary movements or drop blood pressure, which can increase the risk of falling. Our facilitator, Jill Mask is a fitness professional with over 10 years of experience in contributing to Parkinson’s Support groups and will have helpful hints for members! If you have Parkinson’s, or are caring for someone with this disease, be sure to attend this support group! Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

TUE. FEB 18 - ESSENTIAL TREMORS (ET) SUPPORT GROUP 2:30 - 3:30 pm. (3rd Tuesday of each month) at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Gezil Andrews is the local coordinator for the group. Many residents have benefitted – you can too! This meeting is centered on presentations by current SCC ET Support Group Members. These discussions will focus on diagnosis, new treatments now being offered, results in different medications, day-to-day living with ET and fielding of questions through attendees with personal experience. Open to all the community, not just our local group members! Questions: Call Gezil Andrews at 309-660-

1091. Gezil also has a blog for all who deal with Essential Tremors: “Awomanandherstories.com”.

TUE. FEB 18 - DITCH DIABETES & OTHER HEALTH ISSUES 10:00 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. We will have active group discussions, mini-meditations or gratitudes, breathwork, chair yoga and stretching, foodie games and a chance to win prizes!! Each month will touch base on healing foods, misconceptions etc. Join Shirley M. Sullivan, Nutritionist, who provides Holistic Wellness Education with Southshore Wellness and Shari Leitermann, Angel of Vitality, Raw/Vegan, Traveling Chef and Educator through fun, food, fitness and frequency. For info, call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990.

THU. FEB 20 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Sun Towers Outpatient Therapy Dept, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Did you know one in four adults aged 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! This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Call to schedule today! (813) 331-3035.

FRI. FEB 21 – CENTER 4LIFE LEARNING – ANDROID SMARTPHONES & TABLETS 10:30 a.m., on the campus of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. To register for the three-week course: Android Smartphones & Tablets, $30, register online www.sccumc. com/4lifelearning or at Center 4Life Learning, United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Ave, Sun City Center, with cash, check or credit card. Office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 813-634-8607.

TUE. FEB 25 - ACTI-V8 YOUR BRAIN 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Activ8 Your Brain - Presented by Deann Marasco, Axiom Brain Health. Join us to jump start your way into good brain health! Learn tips to maintain a healthy brain, and get your free brain health check as well! Deann Marasco carries an abundance of professional experience in both healthcare and as an aging expert. She recently departed from the Alzheimer’s Association after seven years, as the State Director of health systems. She is still an active volunteer for the Association.

WED. FEB 26 – CENTER 4LIFE LEARNING – AGING WITH GRACE & VITALITY 10:00 a.m., on the campus of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. To register for the two-week course: Aging with Grace and Vitality through Holistic Methods, $20, register online www.sccumc.com/4lifelearning or at Center 4Life Learning, United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Ave, Sun City Center, with cash, check or credit card. Office hours: 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., 813-634-8607.

Southern Caribbean & The ABC Islands onboard Holland America’s newest ship: Rotterdam!

Fully Escorted by News of Sun City Center Staff

All rates INCLUDE: pre-tour document party, roundtrip transportation from Sun City Center, Drink Package, WiFi, and exclusive cocktail party onboard.

• CAT V (verandah balcony): $2383 pp

• CAT VS (verandah balcony): $2433 pp

• CAT B (vista suite): $2683 pp

Nov 7: Depart Sun City Center on our private roundtrip transportation to Ft. Lauderdale.

Nov 8 - 9: Two beautiful days at sea.

Nov 10: Willemstad, Curacao. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nov 11: Kralendijk, Bonaire. A nature lover’s paradise.

Nov 12: Oranjestad, Aruba. Pristine beaches!

Nov 13 - 14: Two beautiful days at sea.

Nov 15: Holland America’s private Half Moon Cay.

Nov 16: Ft Lauderdale, FL. Return to Sun City Center onboad our private coach transportation!

Interested in booking? TEXT /CALL / E-MAIL: STEWART CARRIER stewart@soco.news cell: (813) 938-8511

Scottish Highland Fling

August 7, 2025 Other dates too!

Don’t be shy—you’re not the only daydreamer with a major crush on Scotland. With its lush rolling hills, dramatic coastlines, tiny villages, and towering fairytale castles, what’s not to love?

On this Undiscovered Tour of Scotland, you’ll feel your heart skip a beat as you journey through the breathtaking Highlands, ferry to its most beautiful islands, and immerse yourself in a world of haunting bagpipes, hallowed battlefields, and hoppy brews — the perfect choice for washing down traditional fish and chips at a Scottish chippy. With visits to the Neolithic village of Skara Brae, the legendary golf town of St. Andrews, and a famous whisky distillery for a tour and a wee dram, this Scotland vacation offers countless opportunities to raise a glass to your many passions. Making a spectacular scenic loop from Edinburgh to Glasgow, this Scottish Highland Fling tour is indeed an affair to remember.

Fully Escorted Motorcoach Tour • Hotels, Sightseeing, Most Meals Included

From $3899 Per person Low Air Add On

Gems of Greece, Athens, Naxos & Crete

April 25, 2026 Other dates too!

On an immersive journey through Greece, discover its ancient roots, iconic landmarks, and welcoming culture, from Athens to the islands of Naxos and Crete. Visit the iconic Acropolis and get to know Athens’ lively neighborhoods. Ferry to Naxos and dive into Greek island life and culture during a three-night stay. Explore Crete’s treasures from Heraklion and Chania, including Knossos Palace, the pottery village of Margarites, Chania’s old Venetian Harbor, and more. Delve into the traditions, flavors, and history of Greece, exploring unique corners of the country and meeting locals along the way.

Hotels, Sightseeing, Most Meals Included

From $7199 Per Person includes Air from Tampa

Newfoundland & Labrador

July 21, 2025 Other dates too

Mornin’ sunshine! Not only are the residents of Newfoundland and Labrador the first to see the sunrise in North America, they’re also lucky enough to see floating icebergs, spouting whales, and plunging puffins on a regular basis. Pack your shades for the quaint lighthouses, rainbow- colored houses, and other bright sights this tour of Newfoundland and Labrador has to offer, including three UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Witness the exceptional beauty and unique geological features of Gros Morne National Park, walk in the footsteps of Vikings at L’Anse Aux Meadows, and immerse yourself in the life of a 16th-century whaler at the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station at the National Historic Site Red Bay. A ferry crossing between Newfoundland and Labrador – plus a scenic cruise around the wondrous Witless Bay Islands – offer additional vantage points of this windswept, wondrous land. Don’t forget to toast the stunning sunset with a local iceberg beer or a shot of Screech.

Full Escorted Motorcoach Tour •Hotels, Sightseeing Most Meals Included

From $4107 Per person Low Air Add On Paris, Normandy, Chateaux Country

June 20, 2026 Other dates too!

From fields of yellow sunflowers to cellars of pink rosés, this fascinating tour of France invites you to survey the sensuous land and pick the perfect bouquet. Fragrant gardens and aromatic wines are just the beginning of the sweet experiences that await from the City of Light to the sunlit regions of Normandy, and the Loire Valley. Tiptoe through the tulips at Claude Monet’s rainbow-colored gardens, float down the castle hallways in dreamy Châteaux country, and swirl and sip your way from the lively cafés of Paris to the storied wineries of the French countryside. Traveling from the Seine to the sea, we’ve handpicked the best coastal experiences—the resort town of Deauville, the famous Abbey of Mont St. Michel, and the poignant beaches of Normandy, site of the Allied Forces’ D-Day invasions during World War II.

Hotels, Sightseeing, Most Meals Included

From $3749 Per Person Low Air Add On

Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer

Sept 21, 2025 Other dates too!

From scenic mountains and valleys to the stunning Lake Louise, explore the best of Western Canada via the famous Rocky Mountaineer train. See beautiful Stanley Park and the famed Granville Island Public Market. Travel among the fields of Fraser Valley and the picturesque Fraser River. Admire the postcard-worthy landscapes as you journey alongside Kicking Horse River. Journey along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway and stop at Athabasca Glacier. Admire stunning Bow Falls in Banff. Set off on a mesmerizing voyage from Vancouver, British Columbia to Calgary, Alberta.

Hotels, Sightseeing, Most Meals Included

From $7999 per person Includes Air from Tampa!!

Spotlight on Tuscany

May 16, 2026 Other dates too!

Discover the rolling hills of Tuscany, home to sprawling vineyards, charming medieval hill towns, and enchanting cities. Savor a 7-night stay in Montecatini Terme, the famous resort and spa town.

Visit Pisa, Florence, and San Gimignano, nestled in the Italian countryside. Discover the charming town of Lucca, Italy’s best-kept secret. Learn about the heroic deeds of WWII at remains of the Gothic Line and visit the Museum of Liberation. Enjoy free time to explore the cultural treasures of Florence. Partake in a Tuscan cooking class. Sample cheese at the farm where it is made. Enjoy fabulous local wines and the region’s famous cuisine. Steeped in history, culture and legend, this is Tuscany as you always imagined it.

Hotels, Sightseeing, Most Meals Included

From $4699 Per person Includes Air from Tampa if booked by Nov 17, 2025 One Stop

Orlando Wetlands

By Kai Rambow

Although this park is 40 miles east of downtown Orlando, you’ve probably never been. It is popular and with good reasons. If you are going past, this is worth the stop. Aside from paths there is little here to suggest you’re in a man-made park. And in addition to that, it drops over six feet. There is an easier way to see this park. I’ll cover that in a moment.

Wildlife

There is a ton of wildlife here, especially birds. Of course, there are alligators and raccoons— even deer. Your best shot of seeing deer is early in the morning. You’ll have a good chance of seeing a spoonbill. Look out for them, when you’re there. The wetlands are manmade. The water is reclaimed and filtered through the system. It is best viewed through this lens. It takes approximately 40 days for water to reach the St. Johns River. By this time, it is good and ready. Certainly, we get to see the final phase. The final phases are convenient to hidden wildlife.

Rides

The best part is the free rides. “Friends of the Orlando Wetlands” have rides in giant golf carts. There is a visitor center near the cars. Go in there, and ask when the next tour is leaving. The tour takes about an hour. Their guide will explain all about the water and knows where the wildlife is. It is a little bit of information and well worth it.

Highlights of the trip included seeing a family of sandhill cranes, several spoonbills and, of course, a giant alligator.

Of course, you can go exploring on your own. Of course you’ll have to use some good judgment. There is a trail leading to a boardwalk. This turned out to be worthwhile.

Allowed activities include walking, jogging, bicycling, and horseback riding. They clearly have allowed for all kinds of activities. The best part for me was the ability to take another golf cart ride. I just waited for there to be an opening and took it.

Tips for a Great Trip

Best Time to Go: Now through May is the best. You’ll have loads of birds with their families. It is worth a stop at any time.

Weather: This is outdoors so pay attention to the weather. You wouldn’t want to get caught out in the rain.

Eating: Food options are rather limited on location. Have snacks on hand.

GPS: It may look fairly simple on the map, but take your GPS as back up.

Parking: Follow the signs for parking. Remember where you parked.

Fees: Free admission.

Orlando Wetlands 25155 Wheeler Road Christmas, FL 32709 (407) 795-3149

Orlando.gov/wetlands

Open everyday until sunset except Mondays

TRAVEL

Wood storks gather for rest and renewal.

A spoonbill panning for food.

There are, no surprise, large alligators present.

You’ll never know what you’ll see.

2024 CWGA 18 President’s Cup Tournament

By Aileen Engel

SPORTS

LAWN BOWLING • TENNIS • GOLF • SOFTBALL• PICKLEBALL & MORE!

The 2024 President’s Cup Tournament was held November 18 and 20 at Caloosa Golf Club. It is a 36-hole tournament. We were fortunate we could play both days without rain and the temperature and humidity levels were comfortable. Congratulations to Jill Wright, this year’s winner after an exciting ending! She and Judy Tickles were tied after the two-day tournament at 142 strokes, and it came down to a scorecard playoff. We would also like to congratulate all the money winners of the tournament and thank everyone who participated in this important tournament.

Jill Wright is the winner of the CWGA-18 President’s Cup Tournament for 2024. Pictured is Caloosa Golf & Country Club president Joe DeFelice presenting Jill Wright with the trophy gift at our annual awards luncheon.

Higgins Leads Lawn Bowling Team to Victory

After three days of bowling, the finals of the Sun City Lawn Bowling Triples Championships Suncoasters Division was fought out in legendary fashion. After fifteen ends of a see-saw, afternoon-long battle, the team of Cindy Higgins, Jenny Myers, and Mary Baker led by one bowl. Their opponents, Jan Conley, Gail Christie, and Carolyn Ray, exhibited a persistence that was a testament to their skill level. The 16th and final end was an incredible demonstration of bowling ability by both skippers.

L to R: Cindy Higgins, Jenny Myers, and Mary Baker

Jan Conley had rolled an outstanding shot, her bowl resting closest to the jack. She had done all she could do. If it stood, the teams would be tied and the game would go into extra ends. However, Higgins was up to the task. She slid her bowl into the head and knocked away what would have been the tying Conley bowl, securing the end for the winning team.

Sun City residents are welcome to join in the fun of lawn bowling. There are free lessons every month with a number of activities for new bowlers Stop by the rinks and join the action. Call 615-848-3549 for more info.

SCC Morning Fitness Club

By Bob Monahan, Sports Writer

There are over 250 muscles in the body and the parts that aren’t getting exercised enough will tell you in the form of a stiff neck, sore back or troublesome knee. One Club that we can all benefit from is the Morning Fitness Club that meets in the Community Hall on South Pebble Beach Blvd.

Can’t reach our toes anymore? Gradually you may be able to buy a three part 45-minute program. Part one is a 15 minute body stretch from head to toe. Part two is a light dumbbell component to build strength and flexibility. Most people use two to five pound weights though I prefer three pounds focused on form rather than weight. The final fifteen minutes is spent on the floor doing stretching, balance and core strength. All three components improve overall fitness and build core musculature including the waist, hips, back, pelvis, and spine. Participants are aged 55 to 90. This is not a competition.

Everyone does what they are capable of including several who do their exercise in a chair. The class meets Monday, Wednesday and Fridays 8 to 8:45 a.m. Separately, there is an aerobics class that follows the exercise class. This is a lively, set to music, 45-minute workout. Participants can go to either or both classes. The dues are $20 per year and the first class is free. You will need a yoga style mat.

With time you will be closer to touching your toes and the aches and pains you had before will be replaced with a healthy vibrant body that responds to the everyday stresses of life.

For more information contact: “morningfitnessclubscc@gmail. com”.

Mignogna Leads Team to 2025 Lawn Bowling Championship.

Twelve teams started the Pebble Beach Division of the Sun City Lawn Bowling Triples 2025 Championship. After four days of play downs, two teams remained. In the championship game, the trio of Joe Mignogna, Sylvain Larocque, and Rich Maxedon, defeated the squad of Paddy Lennon, Jim Savage, and Bob Rose by a score of 18-9. For Joe it was his fourth Championship win, having done so in 2017, 2018, and last year.

At the end of seven of sixteen ends, the score was tied at 4-4. No team could deliver a knockout roll. At the end of nine, Mignogna’s team was narrowly ahead 6-4. However, in the tenth end disaster struck the Lennnon-led team when the eventual champions scored 4, giving themselves a 10-4 lead. The thirteenth proved the death knell when the winners bowled for another 4, bringing the score to 15-6. The squads traded scores over the next three ends, but the lead proved too much for the contenders to overcome.

Win Mixed Pairs

The SSC 2025 Lawn Bowling Mixed Pairs Championship game was an incredible display of bowling skill by the four finalists, with Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung edging out Donna and Jim Blaine with a final score of 17-15.

Four of the best bowlers in Florida had survived a week of play downs. The final, a 16-end affair, promised to be a competitive match. They did not disappoint. Every end was a mini-game, with each of the sixteen bowls being delivered with incredible accuracy. It was like watching an intense chess game on grass.

The contest was tied 2-2 after four, but the Higgins-skipped duo eased out ahead, leading 8-5 after ten ends. The Blaines suffered two huge losses in the next two frames as Higgins/Fladung scored three in the 11th and 6 in the twelfth to go up 17-5.

It looked like the game was over. However, the Blaines showed their skill and grit by fighting back. They didn’t get to the finals by backing down from a challenge. Over the next two ends they scored three, and in the fifteenth they racked up five to bring them within four, 17-13. Unfortunately for them, in the last end of the game they could only garner two, sealing the win for Higgins/ Fladung, 17-15. This was the third year in a row that this duo has won this championship.

L to R: Sylvain Larocque, Rich Maxedon, and Joe Magnogna

Jim, Donna Blaine, Cindy Higgins, and Bob Fladung Higgins/Fladung

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Fingersticks

SAFETY

Failure

use a fingerstick value from a blood glucose meter for treatment decisions. Seek medical attention when appropriate or contact Abbott at 855632-8658 or FreeStyleLibre.us for safety info.

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 Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) at a more competitive rate than what Lifeline 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 the 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 1239 West Del Webb Blvd. Suite 100

Chorus Concerts Are Fabulous Fun

The Women’s Chorus of Sun City Center invites you to step back in time to the days when music was fun, and we knew the words to every song that came on the radio…the fabulous sixties!

For the first time, the chorus will be teaming up with The Men’s Chorus of Sun City Center to celebrate the music of the sixties in two joint performances this spring. Each chorus will perform seven songs and will

By Paula Lickfeldt

On January 14, Sam Goodwin, a retired Army Command Sergeant Major, serving for 27 years, presented a program about beekeeping at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Sun City Center. Sam originally grew up in Ruskin where his family had two restaurants. After graduating from East Bay High School he “won” the draft lottery and went into the Army in 1971.

After retiring from the Army he was a defense contractor in Virginia and started keeping bees. After retiring the second time, Sam and Linda decided to return to Florida, his childhood home. His wife, Linda, knew that he loved beekeeping and said, “Why don’t we take the bees to Florida?” They loaded up the bees and started south. The first two days of the trip with the bees in the trailer went smoothly because it was cold and the bees were in clusters and calm. As they got farther south and the weather got warmer, the bees got agitated. Sam’s first task, when they arrived in Florida, was to find a place to house the bees and his second task was to find a place for him and Linda to live.

To be a beekeeper in Florida one must have a license. The license is issued through the Florida Department of Agriculture and they inspect the hives annually. They do not check the honey, they inspect the beehives to make sure they are healthy and do not have any diseases. One third of all of our food is directly or indirectly related to bees. Scientists tell us that if we lose our pollinators the human population will not last

sing together on the opening and closing pieces. Both groups are directed by Jeff Jordan and accompanied by Teodora Mitze-Circiumaru on piano and Danny Chavez on drums.

Friends and family of The Women’s Chorus are invited to show their support by adopting a song in honor or memory of a loved one. For a donation of $50, a sticker will be placed on each copy of the music with the donor’s name and brief

dedication. Songs available for adoption this spring are: “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In,” “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow,” “My Guy,” “California Dreamin’,” “Stop In the Name of Love,” “Sixties Chicks (Johnny Angel, It’s My Party, I Only Wanna Be With You),” and “Hey Jude.” Supporters may also adopt an instrumentalist to help the chorus pay guest instrumentalists who share their time and talents to provide

All About Bees

four years. Mites are detrimental to bees so the bees must be kept free of mites. In times past there wasn’t a mite problem in the U.S., they were imported from somewhere, somehow and are causing serious bee losses. There are three types of bees in a hive: queen, worker and drone. The Queen is the largest bee in the hive and her only job is to lay eggs. All bees are fed Royal Jelly and bee bread (pollen) however, the queen’s diet is only Royal Jelly. When a queen bee hatches, in 16 days, her first job is to kill the other unhatched queen bee larvae. If more than one queen bee hatches at the same time, they fight until one dies. When there is only one queen bee left, she leaves the hive to mate with drones from another hive. She stores semen and returns to the hive to lay approximately 1,500 eggs a day. This is the queen’s only job. The workers make the cells for the eggs to be laid in. If the cell is the regular size, the queen lays an egg that has been touched by sperm, these

eggs will become females, worker bees. If the cell is a little larger, the queen lays an egg that has not been touched by sperm, these larvae will become drones, males. She is able to regulate which egg she lays and whether or not the egg comes in contact with sperm.

The Drones are the male bees and their sole responsibility is to mate with a queen. The drones have no stinger. Drones die after they mate or the workers kill them in the fall. The third kind of bee in the hive is the Worker Bee, The workers make all of the decisions for the hive and do all of the work. They build the comb by secreting wax, feed the brood (larvae), guard the hive, collect nectar, pollen, propolis and water. Worker bees decide when to replace a failing queen or swarm for reproduction. If the queen runs out of sperm, is injured or isn’t producing enough eggs, they kill her and produce another queen.

Paintings have been found in caves from the stone age,

special accompaniment. Contact Chorus President Pam Greer at 404-790-9746 for more information. The concerts will be presented on Sunday, March 30, at 3 p.m. and Monday, March 31, at 7 p.m. at The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. Tickets may be purchased for $15 ahead of time at the church office, 813634-2539, or at the door.

depicting people tending bees. Even prehistoric people understood the importance of honey as a source of food. Bees kept by commercial beekeepers make money in several ways. Their highest commercial value is pollination. Beekeepers “rent” their bees to farmers for pollination of crops, after pollination, they retrieve their bees, the second highest value is selling the bees themselves and the third most valuable product is their honey. Bees produce many other products that are sold and used, including pollen, wax, propolis, royal jelly. and venom. Worldwide, bees are facing an unpredictable future. Because of mites (especially Varroa destructor mite), climate change and loss of habitat the number of bees is diminishing. A very good way to help the bee population is to grow native pollinator plants in your yard, providing great food (nectar and pollen) for our bees and butterflies.

Women’s Chorus of Sun City Center

Men’s Chorus of Sun City Center

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Fairways, our premier executive golf course and clubhouse, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, and more!

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Death and Dying – Not just a Catalog Sales Program

By Gezil Andrews

Meeting with an Advance Care Planning Consultant who puts healthcare and life skills to work in classes to let people explore life and death options and communicate choices is a special event. I just had that opportunity with Lisa Ahbel, such a consultant here in Sun City Center. Lisa is a retired nurse whose passion is helping people to think about and plan for the inevitable: death and dying. We sat down and talked about her course (work), “Befriending the Ending” at the Center 4Life Learning (Non-Accredited Adult Education School), and I realized she is much more!

During the meeting I explored Lisa’s skills while formalizing a picture of the work done within the Center 4Life Learning. I realize how fortunate we are in our community to have such an organization.

One of Lisa’s oft repeated phrases is “We all have to come to terms with death and dying.” – that’s where communication and compassion join. It seems like so many magazines, newspapers and podcasts spill out this information regularly, but consider the following: 56% of seniors have not communicated their End-of-Life (EOL) wishes to family members. Have you?

80% of people say that if seriously ill, they would want to talk to their doctor about EOL care, yet only 7% report having had such a conversation with their doctor. Have you?

82% of people say that it is important to put their EOL wishes in writing, but only 23% have. Have you?

EOL wishes are advance directives, a set of legal and medical documents which let you spell out your decisions about EOL care ahead of time. If you don’t do this now, you will be virtually silent at death.

Communicate your wishes to your family while living!

The average person spends far more time planning their next vacation than they do thinking about their wishes for their final days. Some strategic planning and good communication ahead of time can mean the difference between a protracted stay in the ICU, hooked up to a ventilator and IVs and a peaceful, natural winding down in the presence of friends and loved ones. Articulating your wishes to your family is a gift. They won’t have to guess if and where you want to be cremated or buried, if you are an organ donor, what hymns/music should be played during your memorial service. Lisa said, “It seems morbid to say this (put it into words!), but write your own obituary, don’t leave it all for your family to do.” This is the absolute best time to know who you were and how you want to be remembered.” Good practical advice – wellmeaning and real!

My visit with Sue Holter, Manager of the Center 4Life Learning, fleshed out the organization for me and I began to realize how magnificent the work is!

The center attendance is over 750 students in classes annually, there are over 550 residents who take the trips. Grants help fund new computers and scholarships. There is an Advisory Board to help provide formal direction. The Board is made up of 9 members: 5 from the church and 4 from the community. Three have been with the center since the early 2000’s – an impressive 20+ years of history.

The center was founded in 1976 by the United Community Church. In 2019, the school moved to the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. The school closed during COVID and reopened in 2021. It is said “there is no other

Adult Education Program like the Center 4Life Learning in the State of Florida and only a few in the country at large.” That’s not all, the class schedule is rich in local talent and much needed coursework.

I recently sat in on the beginning of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) class – talking not about AI now, but what it will grow to be in 10 years. The impact of AI will be in our work and our workers. This appeared to be fascinating and impactful for the attendants!

I was particularly drawn to the class listed in the class schedule titled “What if you got hit by a bus?” There is an interesting story behind this class.

In 2021, Instructor John O’Connor introduced a six 90-class/workshop titled Preparing for Life Changing Events (by getting your stuff together). The purpose of the workshop was to understand the information and documents that should be located and assembled to allow spouses/ and or children to either oversee your affairs should you become incapacitated or settle your affairs upon your passing.

Registration for the workshop was low, so John changed the workshop name to “What Would

Happen If You Got Hit by A Bus?” The new title suddenly perked up interest! The class continues to grow and impact community residents.

I stopped into a recent “What Would Happen if You Got Hit by a Bus?” The guest speaker was Dale Brewster, an Estate planning attorney with an office at 948-B Cypress Village Blvd, Sun City Center, FL 33573. I understand Dale is a regular for the class.

Food and Medicine

As an interesting aside: I learned that the Mary Petro Program for Food and Medicine is also a ministry in the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center. While I had heard of the program, I did not know it was a ministry of the church!

Day in and day out, food arrives and leaves from the church. This is a vibrant, vital ministry – all because of a local Sun City Center resident , Mary Petro looked to the future and her wealth could do for others! This is just one ministry that lives within the walls of the church! The goal of the Center 4Life Learning today, as a nonaccredited adult education platform, is to Inform, Entertain and Inspire! I am confident it does just this every day!

Security Patrol Fundraiser

By Mike Lee

The Security Patrol is hosting a return of the Landsharks in a fundraising concert on February 9 at 2:00 in the Community Hall. The Landsharks played here to a sold-out audience, and a great time was had by all!

The Landsharks are the official Jimmy Buffett tribute band. Residents can expect to hear a lot of Buffett’s music, as well as other tunes from the Rock and Roll era. Tickets are $30, and are available at the Security Patrol office between 9:00 and 3:00, Monday through Friday. Tickets are going fast! Grab your tickets, and help the Security Patrol maintain their critical service to the community.

Instructor, Death and Dying, Lisa Ahbel

Administrator of the Center Sue Holter

Attorney John O’Connor

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Beginning January 15

Win a $100 Giftcard!

WHERE in THE WORLD is THE NEWS

Back by popular demand, we are excited to announce the return of our “Where in the World is The News” photography competition. We want you to take a picture like the one above, holding The News in a fun and creative way while you’re on an adventure! Our newspaper has been on every continent on Earth, in warzones, on the top of the Great Wall of China, and even inside the Pyramids of Giza.

Contest Rules:

1) Be creative with your submissions, and we will publish your photo! We are happy to accept submissions from individuals, families, friends, couples, clubs, and all fellow adventurers. 2) Each month The News Staff will select a winner(s) and publish your photo(s). Selected winners will receive a $100 gift card provided by our generous sponsors! 3) Each individual can submit one photo per month, only the person who submits the photo is eligible to receive the gift card. 4) To enter the competition please scan the QR code on this page. You can also submit your entry using our website: www. soco.news and click on “Where in the World” under ABOUT. 5) Winners will be announced each month, you’ll be contacted by The News staff directly if your photograph wins. We will not be able to answer phone/email inquiries about the status of your submission.

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The SCC Companion will release its first issue.

This e-newsletter will streamline news, events, happenings, competitions, concerts, club announcements, and religious/spiritual news SPECIFIC to the Sun City Center area. This easy to read twice-monthly online newsletter will be delivered directly to your inbox, and will be available on Social Media & www.SOCO.news. The SCC Companion is here to help make our community thrive! To receive our FREE e-newsletter, please scan the QR code with your phone or visit www. soco.news and click on The SCC Companion under “About.”

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We are the source for community news and announcements in Sun City Center. To receive our media packet or to discuss advertising your business,

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