Sun City Center Holiday Walk
By Gezil Andrews
Hall – 3 p.m.
Zoom: 879 6501 1118 Passcode: 352732
6 Board Workshop
Rollins Theater – 9 a.m.
Zoom: 869 1940 5200
Passcode: 198563
8 Board Meeting
Rollins Theater – 9 a.m.
Zoom: 898 6556 7636
Passcode: 197300
21 Club Leaders Meeting
Florida Room – 10 a.m.
Zoom: 880 0149 5169
Passcode: 152657
23 Supplemental Board Meeting
Board Room – 1 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 “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 Phone: 813.633.3500
Hours – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., M-F sccboard@suncitycenter.org Website: suncitycenter.org Information Center: 813.633.4670
I am delighted to see and feel the spirit and creativity of our community early in the season. We don’t need snowflakes to get into the jingle bells, Holiday Grinch (oh so green!) , Jolly rhythm of Christmas. The Holiday Walk brought it right to us!
After walking along the roadway to catch the final glimpses of the Holiday Cart Parade, 2024 “Merry Grinchmas,” I stopped to greet folks in their “side of the road” chairs and carts – sipping on coffee and sharing good spirits. One couple mentioned that they brought coffee from CiCi’s and that they are going to suggest that CiCi’s set up a coffee and hot chocolate stand next year. We will, of course, need a tray of donuts to choose from as well!
The Holiday Walk was created by residents of Sun City Center Community Association, Kings Point and Freedom Plaza. A wonderful neighborly event that brought a great mix of people to our streets.
After the walk, I had an opportunity to engage in conversation and a little shopping at a few of our local shops.
At Sew’n Sews, I spoke with Nan Ryan, Program Committee Chair, and Jan Ring and Sue McDonald, members. The
President of the club is Jan Kummer. The ladies mentioned that the foundation for their club work is developing skills, giving demonstrations for others to learn and to expand their sense of creativity. Nan mentioned that their members make an item for themselves and then fill inventory for sales!
Meeting with Laura Lee, President of the Shell Crafters Club, was fun – I fell in love with a shell adorned picture that
Laura had made which crystalized our new friendship. Laura is enthusiastic about the club’s work: Their purpose is to study seashells and shell crafts, and to create objects made primarily of seashells. Proceeds from the sale of items are donated to charitable, non-profit organizations.
The club was formed in 1969 and has
Walk continued on page CA-3.
Holiday Golf Cart Parade
By Paula Lickfeldt
The annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade took place on Saturday, December 7. Around 20 decorated carts took part.
The morning started out cold (for Florida, not for up north) but by the time the parade started, the sun had warmed things up a bit.
The carts gathered at 8 a.m. to register, at 9 a.m. the judging took place and shortly after 10, the parade started. A lot of spectators lined the streets to get a look at the decorated carts. This year’s theme was Merry Grinchmas.
Everywhere one looked, a Grinch appeared, on the carts and in person. The parade started in the parking lot by the SCC library and the Security Patrol and ended up at the Gazebo on Cherry
Hills Drive where the ceremony took place and awards were given. Every cart that was entered received a ticket for a raffle and five prizes were given. Then came the time to award the prizes to the carts.
In the Business Category, The Men’s Club-Life Line won the prize, in the category of Entries by Individuals, Peter and June Hyjek won third place, Cindy Musto and Robin Dewelles won second place, and the first place winner was a cart made by Sue Ronald, Paula Pasquantonio and Rhonda Walker, in the Clubs/Groups category, the Front
Porch Pickers won third place, The Needlecrafters won second place, and the Dog Owners Group was the “top dog” taking the first place prize. After the ceremony and awards, there was a concert at the gazebo and the craft shops were open for holiday shopping. It was a very pleasant day for everyone who attended.
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
Happy New Year from the Community Association Board of Directors. We wish all members to have a healthy and prosperous New Year. The Board is united and focused on upgrading our facilities, looking for ways to make it even more enjoyable and fun to live in the CA, while keeping our dues affordable.
The Board and CA staff are still working on the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. Much of the damage has been repaired, but many contractors are very busy with long lead times. It appears that the shade coverings for the shuffleboard courts will be installed in May. At the press deadline, we are still awaiting to receive a quote to replace the roof over the indoor pools, but both pools are operational. Community Manager Reitz and our wonderful staff will keep at these repairs.
Much work is also being done on our Capital Projects. Good news on Volleyball! We received notice from the county that all departments had approved the latest submittal for the two new volleyball courts. We need to protective wrap trees nearby, but not in the construction area and then submit a picture of them to secure our Building Permit. We are confident this will happen shortly and our contractor said his schedule will allow construction to start in mid-January.
On December 5, our engineer (Bohler) transmitted the third resubmittal for the Central Campus Upgrade Phase 1A & 1B site plan to the county. We are hopeful to secure approval of the site plan in January. In parallel we have been working on the building permit for the Phase 1A Applied Arts Building. 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 made progress with the Bocce Club regarding building courts for them. The proposed plan is to build three 11’ wide Bocce courts in the open space between tennis court #1 and the paved road to the dog park. The Long Range Planning Committee will review this plan and make a recommendation to the Board. So, 2025 will be a busy facility construction time on campus with possibly three major projects underway. They will be financed by the Capital Fund which receives its money from new homeowners moving to the CA. Lastly, I would like to thank the membership for reelecting me to the Board for another three-year term in the recent referendum, and I welcome the reelection of Jim Collins and the addition of Art DeAngelis. We will miss the contributions of Treasurer Zieg who decided to not run for reelection. I am also very honored that the 2025 Board elected me to serve as President for 2025. It was also encouraging that the membership approved the 2025 annual dues of $344 which will allow the CA to continue to provide first class facilities and activities. The New Year is shaping up to be a great year for progress. 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.
Sun City Center Community Association, Inc.
SCCCA MEMBERSHIP MEETING
THURSDAY, JANUARY 2, 2025
3:00 PM – COMMUNITY HALL
REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED AT 2:30 PM ALSO, VIA ZOOM
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87965011118?pwd=hF QzHfSbsOjKJve6t8xiS96y4HLH9u.1 Meeting ID: 879 6501 1118 Passcode: 352732
200 SCCCA members required for a Quorum
CA Membership Cards are required for admittance Your 2024 stickers will be accepted -AGENDA-
I. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance
II. Approval of Minutes: October 23, 2024
III. Induction of newly elected Directors
IV. President’s Report
V. Treasurer’s Report
VI. Community Manager’s Report
VII. Central Campus Upgrade - Phase 1A Update
VIII. Hillsborough County Infrastructure Update
IX. General Discussion by Members
X. Adjournment
THANK YOU TO ALL VOLUNTEERS WHO HELPED ON COMMITTEES AND WITH THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IN 2024!
Board Update
By Bob Sanchez
On December 11, the Community Association Board of Directors met in the Rollins Theater.
Corporate Secretary Debbie Caneen acknowledged 43 donations totaling $6,419. She said that the Board met on December 9 to elect the following officers:
President: Ron Clark
Vice President: Carrie Blaylock
Corporate Secretary Debbie Caneen
Treasurer: Jim Collins
She also certified the results of the Board of Directors election held on December 3 and 4. The final results were:
Ron Clark 1,293
Jim Collins 1,492
Arthur De Angelis 1,682
Tim Harrison 1,203
Sun City Center residents also voted to approve a dues increase to $344 per member by a vote of 1,345 to 926.
President Ron Clark gave the Treasurer’s report on behalf of Roger Zieg. The numbers reflect through November 30:
Operations fund $1,326,617
Capital fund $6,680,457
Replacement fund $1,455,203
Renovations fund $55,439
Total residents were 11,341 and total membership due were 11,434.
The Board voted to approve the revised 2025 Club Reporting requirements. In addition, they voted to permit the Kings Point Tennis Club to use three of the CA’s tennis courts “until March 31, 2025, or until the KP tennis courts are repaired from hurricane damage, whichever occurs first.” Some restrictions and a usage fee apply.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Signs of Sun City Center
By Mike Lee
Who was Berry Roberts? What was his significance to Sun City Center? Who was Council Drive named after? (Answers are below.)
These questions and others were answered in a trivia contest, “The Signs of Sun City Center,” that was recently sponsored by the History Society. The contest highlighted street signs around Sun City Center, as well as other signage, such as the sign honoring Del Webb on the overhang on the side of the building housing the Rollins Theater.
The event was well attended by local residents, who enjoyed learning a little more about the community that they live in.
Answers:
Berry Roberts was the original cowboy for the ranch that is now Sun City Center. He lived on the ranch at the time, and was the first person hired by the Del Webb Corporation, and was a golf course superintendent until his retirement in 1987. He also provided some very valuable local knowledge to Del Webb prior to the purchase of the land.
Webb, and was a farmer in the area, with his major crops being cattle, tomatoes, citrus and sod. It is believed that he likely supplied most of the sod used in the early development of Sun City Center.
Diamond Painting
By Paula Lickfeldt
If you are looking for a craft/hobby that is affordable and easy to take with you when you go away, then Diamond Painting is for you. Mary Veronik had been doing Diamond Painting for many years and loved it. She wanted to get a club started for residents of SCC and KP. The club is very new, it was started November of 2023. There are 16 members who pay $5 dues each year to belong to the club. The members get together from 9 a.m. until noon on Fridays in the Bunka Arts Room of the Arts and Crafts Building which is on Cherry Hills Dr. There are free classes on Fridays and the club meets on two Saturdays a month in the same room.
Along with paying yearly dues, each member buys their own kit to work on. The kits contain the picture that the beads will be put on, the beads and the tools for the work. Kits cost anywhere from $5 to $20 and can be ordered on the internet, and at JoAnns or Michaels. Kits of pictures, coasters, earrings, bookmarks and many other things can be found plus custom kits can be purchased if you would like to have a picture of a pet or a family member, send the picture and a kit will be made for you.
If you are interested in getting more information about the club, stop by the Bunka Arts Room any Friday and talk to the members.
Best Photo Competition
The Caper Room was buzzing with excitement on December 10 when Rick Waid judged the Best of the Best Photo competition for the SCC Photo Club. The entries were all silver and gold winners from previous competitions during 2024. The best in each category was then compared to all the other category bests until one picture was left standing. The winner is at the discretion of the Judge.
By Mike Lee
Residents were recently entertained at a gazebo concert sponsored by Music on the Green, with a performance by the KP III. The concert benefited the KP Music Makers grant program, which helps support music programs at local schools. The KP Music Makers is a jam band that meets in Kings Point on Saturday mornings. SCCCA members are welcome to attend.
The next concert will be on January 4 at 2 p.m. at the Gazebo, and will feature Harold Davis. Davis is known for his Rodney Dangerfield and Neil Diamond. Also performing will be Liz Rubino, who will be performing a Barbra Streisand tribute.
Walk continued from page 1.
28 members. There are pieces in the shop that were there when the club was formed. This is a great piece of history!
The focus of the club is social with a mission to earn and invest money in local charities, such as Mary Martha House and Care. The Shell Crafters share a building with Miniatures, Gone Stamping, Diamond Dots and the Bunka Club. This move has permitted more space to work with, lots of windows for natural lighting and a fellowship that extends to group members and the community.
The Bunka Club has a small amount of offerings in the shop due to the complexity of their art form. Bunka is a Japanese embroidery and is recognized by the National Art Gallery in Washington, D.C., as art, not needlework. It is also called “painting with threads.” The art form was introduced to Sun City Center in 1982. I spoke with Sandee Brundige, President of the Bunka Club for a quick update. Sandee shared with me that the Club is a 501(c)(3), so they don’t sell anything, their bylaws don’t permit it. Their items may also be considered
cost prohibitive because of the time material that goes into each item. They are certainly unique!
The Gone Stampin club is made up of paper craft artists who enjoy card making and rubber stamping. The club President is Linda Menier, has about 30 members and donates over $2500 a year to other charities – including food pantries. Bara Schneider, a club member said, “we are warm and welcoming at every level!” I agreed. The club gave a small card to me as a gift. Linda said that “cards are a big seller!” I learned that the club also creates a “welcome back” pamphlet for Snowbirds. In addition to appreciating and admiring the cards in the shop, I realized how much money could be saved from buying commercial cards – buy locally and save money to use in many other ways. I’ll be back ladies!
There are other shops to visit in Sun City Center – all bring to life the interests and talents of residents. This is just a small holiday sampling around the Sun City Center Holiday Walk for you – a small early gift from Santa!
Monday Movies Rollins Theater 1
Congratulations go to Wayne Adams for his beautiful winning entry, “Waiting for the Tide”. Bruce Crain was the runner up with his creative print “Green Glass."
In other exciting news, the Photo Club has a new Grand Master, Sherry Kalczynski. In order to be a Grand Master in the club, a photographer must have been awarded 10 perfect scores. Congratulations to Sherry.
The next meeting of the SCC Photo club will be on January 14 in the Caper Room, 1009 North Pebble Beach Blvd., at 6:30 p.m.
Movies are normally shown on the second and fourth Monday of each month. 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. January 13 • RETRO MOVIE MONDAY• Viva Las Vegas • 1 hour, 25 minutes
Celebrate Elvis’ 90th birthday and enjoy 1960’s Las Vegas by watching Elvis play race-driver, Lucky Jackson, who wants to score enough money for a new car motor so he can win the Grand Prix. When he meets sexy swimming instructor Rusty (Ann- Margaret), he considers staying around longer. After Lucky loses his winnings in the hotel pool, he must stay in Vegas long enough to win back his dough. But, now, he also wants to win Rusty’s heart. Unfortunately, so does his slick racing enemy, Elmo.
Released: 1964
Also Starring: Ann-Margret, Cesare Danova, William Demarest, Nicky Blur
Genre: Musical
Rating: PG
January 27 • 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-in-law Alan, or grandson Danny might believe.
Starring: June Squibb, Clark Gregg, Parker Posey, Fred Hechinger
Genre: Comedy
Rating: PG-13
Metaphysical Society Meetings
January 8 • “Essential Oils” – Robin Trotter will talk with us about what they are and how to use them for your best benefit.
January 15 • “Energy Reclamation”. Alexander Nemo returns to explaining reclaiming energy from Physical or Emotional Trauma.
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.
Welcome Back Snow Dogs
January 22 • “Finding & Living Your Spiritual Ideal” Ed Foote will give numerous specific recommendations from the Edgar Cayce readings.
January 29 • “Sound Wave Healing” Christine Manning, a talented member, will bring Singing Bowls that create a deeper connection with the Body’s and the Mind’s intrinsic health.
10:00 a.m. in the SCCCA 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 813 398-7033 for more information.
Art Club of SCC
The Art Club is a very welcoming, very social group of friends with several opportunities to get involved.
January 20 – Watercolor Demo
Led by Suzanne Natzke
Rollins Theater
Free event, open to all Club and CA members
January 31-February 1 – 56th Annual Art Show 10 – 4 p.m.
Atrium, Florida Room
January Gallery will feature Margaret Carey. Her specialty is Chinese brush painting. She leads a class Friday afternoons. Gallery opening will be by January 8 at 1 p.m. Light refreshments available. Free event.
Tuesday – Harv Berman teaches watercolors in the morning and drawing in the afternoons, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Thursday mornings – Anne Walker teaches acrylic painting. Thursday afternoons – Tom Haverfield teaches beginning watercolors. Friday afternoons – Linda Scola teaches oil painting January through March. Her classes are $10 each. Mentoring class available Wednesday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m. Classes are $10 each.
Beginning Quilting Class
Sew’n Sews is offering a Beginning Quilting class on Thursdays from January 30, 2025, through March 8. Classes are scheduled between 9 and noon for the six-week period. The instructor is Mary Lou Bogdan.
Participants will learn how to make a table runner or four placemats composed of four basic quilt blocks. They will also learn how to use a rotary cutter, sew a 1/4inch seam, read instructions, select fabric, create quilt blocks, put them together, sandwich them with batting and backing fabric, quilt in straight lines, and bind the completed product.
This class is open to members of the Sun City Center Community Association and Kings Point gold card members. Membership in Sew’n Sews is required. Membership is $10 annually. The cost of the class is $10 and must be paid before the start of the class. A sign-up sheet is available in the class sign-up binder near the front door of the club. The class is limited to 10 participants. Stop by Sew’n Sews soon to register for the class.
Contact Sew’n Sews class coordinator, Wanda Jorgensen (813-650-3793 or “w.jorgensen068@gmail.com”, with any questions.
Attention Fiber Enthusiasts
We, at the SCCCA Dog Park, are looking forward to a wonderfully cool winter in the park with our frisky friends! 2025 kicks off with a membership meeting on January 15 in the Florida Room at 5 p.m. for a free catered pizza/salad/ziti dinner, followed by a meeting at 6 p.m. Bring a dessert if you can, not required. Renewals are due for memberships now, so check our website for an application, “sccdog. org”, or email us at “sccdogownersgroup@gmail.com” with questions. Hope to see you there!
SCC Audubon Club
Saturday, January 4,
SCC Community Hall, S. Pebble Beach Blvd.
Florida Master Falconer and Wildlife Rescuer Justin Matthews will speak to members of the Sun City Center Audubon Club at its monthly meeting.
Matthews was born and grew up in Manatee County and resides in Bradenton. In addition to speaking about native and exotic wildlife in this area, Matthews plans to introduce to the audience some of the animals he has rescued and cares for, including Cosmo, a great horned owl, Sugar, a seven foot boa constrictor and Miranda, a Florida alligator. Members and their guests are encouraged to enjoy coffee, tea and pastries, along with socializing with friends starting at 9:15 a.m. Club business will be briefly discussed from 10 to 10:15.
Matthews will begin his presentation and introduce his animal friends to club members. He owns and operates Matthews Wildlife Rescue in Bradenton and has come to the aid of local wildlife. He also humanely and gently removes “nuisance” wildlife from people’s homes and property, that might include native bats and alligators. When he isn’t busy rescuing the local wildlife from the dangers of civilization, Matthews gives wildlife talks to area schools, social clubs and organizations. Audubon Club members are asked to bring their Community Association Photo ID’s with them or a copy in their cell phones, when they come to the meeting.
Computer Club Monthly Meeting
Wednesday, January 8, at 7 p.m. • Florida room
Mark Shulman will present “Internet Privacy”. Come and learn what’s safe and what’s not, and how you can really cover your tracks and keep your internet activities safe and private, especially when using public WiFi hotspots.
Computer Club Classes
The Computer Club Lab is open from 12:30 to 4:30, every day except Sunday. Sign up for classes can be done online. Students must be a member in good standing at Sun City Center or Kings Point. Tuition is payable upon registration. For additional information email: Judy Lee, Education Director at ”education@scccomputerclub.org” or www.scccomputerclub. org.
When to Buy a Computer • Tuesday, January 7, from 9 to 11 a.m.
Beginning Computers I, II, III • Tuesday, January 14, from 10 to noon, Thursday, January 16, from 10 to noon, and Saturday, January 18, from 10 to noon.
iPad/iPhone for Seniors • Wednesday, January, 15, 8:30 to 11:45 a.m.
Excel • Tuesday, January 21, 9 to 11 a.m.
Smartphone Apps • Wednesday, January, 22, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Introduction to LibreOffice • Thursday, January 23, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Genealogy for Seniors • Tuesday, January 28, and Thursday, January 30, from 10 to noon.
The SCC Weavers Club would like to invite all fiber enthusiasts to celebrate Distaff Day, a.k.a. Roc or Rock Daya European cultural tradition where women resumed their domestic work after the feast of the Epiphany. Women of all classes would spend their evenings spinning and during the day, they’d carry a drop spindle with them. Spinning was the only means of turning raw wool, cotton or flax into thread for weaving into cloth. A little trivia… the distaff, or roc, used in spinning was the medieval symbol of women’s work.
The SCC Weavers’ Club will be holding Distaff Day 2025 on January 18 from 10 to 3 p.m. Last year’s event was such a success that we’ve moved it to the Atrium Building’s Florida Room. Members of the Manasota Weavers Guild, Pinellas County Weavers, and Florida Tropical Weavers Guild will be participating in the day’s activities.
Bring your “Show‘n Tell” project and leave inspired with new ideas. There will be a “free” table as well as “stash” tables for those who want to sell their accumulated (extra) “inventory”. Please mark each item clearly with your name and price. The Weavers Club will provide tea, coffee and baked goodies but do bring your own mug and bag lunch. A $5 donation is suggested. For more information, email “sccweavers@gmail.com”.
Eight is Enough Team Game Winners
Duplicate Bridge Association of Sun City Center organized a one-session Swiss Team concept called ‘Eight is Enough’ which is popular around the American Contract Bridge League (ACBL). The “rules” tend to even out the experience and strength factor among teams with advanced and upcoming players, therefore making a more competitive and fun event. It works this way: All players are assigned a number 1, 2, or 3 depending on their masterpoint level: Players with fewer than 500 masterpoints and non-life master are assigned 1. Players who are life masters but fewer than 1500 masterpoints are assigned 2. All players with more than 1500 masterpoints are assigned 3. No team can have more than ‘8’ points for members on their team. Congratulations to the winning team of John D’Entremont, Ginny Acker, Sandy Hunt and Ellen Brown
Holiday Cart Parade Photos
Multi-Cultural Heritage Club Gala
By
Bob Sanchez
Families and friends came from all across the community to enjoy the annual Holiday Golf Cart Parade. For more coverage and photos, see Paula Lickfedlt’s article in the News of SCC or online at soco.news. Photos by Bob
Sanchez
More Holiday Cart Photos on page 13.
By Paula Lickfeldt
The Multi-Cultural Heritage Club hosted the Black and White Gala on Saturday December 14. This semi-formal event is one of the fundraisers for the club. Ninetyfive guests, elegantly dressed , in black and white attire, attended the Gala.
The meal was provided by Banquet Masters and the music for dancing was provided by DJ Willie Matos.
HCA South Shore Comfort Dogs
By Mike Lee
A comfort dog program at HCA South Shore Hospital brings joy to patients and staff. “It’s not only great for the patients, it’s great for the staff too,” according to David Chudzik, Director of Communications and
Community Engagement for the hospital. The program has been in place for about three years, with volunteers bringing their dogs to spend time brightening up the day for those that need it.
Volunteers and their dogs need to be screened to ensure that they have the correct disposition to spend time in the hospital. With some recent additions, there are now 12 dogs participating along with their owners, according to Mary Bishop, who helped begin the program at the hospital. Bishop had a dog that was a certified
therapy dog, and met Denise Young, Volunteer Manager at the hospital, during a health fair in Sun City Center. Young immediately thought it would be a wonderful idea, and the
program was initiated right away.
Dogs and their owners have scheduled times to visit, and designated areas to go to when
Comfort continued on page 13.
The Editor’s Corner
Passing By
By E. Adam Porter
Editor, News of SCC & South County
As we flip the calendar over to 2025, we know that much is going to be said and written and shared about “new” ideas, “new” goals, and “new” resolutions. Fact is, for most, these goals will be strikingly similar to the plans they had for this past year. And that’s okay. Life is supposed to be a pursuit, after all. The moment we think we have arrived, our ticket gets punched for the next port of call.
I’ve been thinking a lot about that lately—and about the ol’ saw from countless high school and university ceremonies. It alway begins something like this: “The word commencement means an end, but it also means a beginning…”
The idea that every end is also a beginning is an old one. Time tested. More ancient, even, than our calendar. January, of course, is named for Janus, the two-faced god of Roman myth, known for looking back and ahead simultaneously. Janus was also the deity associated with doors and gates. His connection with the new year is a tacit reminder that we’re all just passin’ through. That the journey is the point, and life is what you make it.
Today, I’m thinking about this journey we’re all on together.
different place at a different time, some more similar than others, but distinct in their own way. Different places, different times, different people, still sharing this road. Emphasis on “sharing.”
That can be a tough one, especially this time of year. We all like to share our excess. We don’t want to share our lack or our sadness… and that’s the rub. “The Holiday Season” is a time of “sadness and anxiety” for many of us. Various studies have shown that 6 in 10 Americans feel their mental health is negatively impacted by the context of the holidays. The rush, the stress, the implied obligations and deadlines... the empty seats at the table.
Stress during the holidays is an idea almost as ancient as ol’ Janus himself. Probably older. Because, where there is celebration, there is also isolation. The plain truth is that, for many folks, the expectation for the new year is more of the same. And that may not be much of a reason to celebrate.
I’m reminded of a beautifully melancholy song by Dublinborn singer songwriter Brendan Nolan. In “The Old Year,” Nolan personifies that annual transition as an elderly gent whiling away his remaining days in a tenement apartment in Montreal, where Nolan was living at the time. A young man in his 20s, he watched his neighbors trudging slowly through the motions of life, a few of them visited only by the rent collector.
Nolan paints a vivid picture of the Old Year as a man whose “face is a weary map or circles and lines…” eyes filled with sadness that causes people to clear a wide path around him when he walks down the street.
SCC Christmas Lights
By Ilona Merritt
Residents of Sun City Center did a great job giving our community beautiful light displays. Carmine Todaro outdid himself with his light display on the corner of El Rancho and Wintersong.
Inside their home, his indoor display rivals his outdoor display. Carmine came to this country from southern Italy. He met his wife, Rose, in this country; they married and opened an Italian Restaurant. Despite the hard work of a popular restaurant, he put up a large Christmas Village in their restaurant for all the
They shake their heads, Nolan observes, but do not trouble themselves to stop and say, “hello.”
When I hear the song, I wonder how the lives of those lonely people might be impacted if the folks they passed did stop and say, hello. Or, what might happen if those neighbors took it upon themselves to go knocking on each other’s doors. Might they all be better for it? I think so.
Nolan describes the Old Year railing at the sun, keening to a shadow from the past, long since gone. The closing of the year and the onset of the new bring some of those painful shadows into sharp relief. We think about what was, what was lost, and what might have been. We think about what could be even as we feel what can never be tugging that hope back into the shadows.
Especially this time of year, sadness can feel like an
impenetrable, suffocating fortress… But the truth is, those imposing walls are fragile. A warm smile and a kind word send spider webs of cracks though them, and an unexpected visit can bring those walls of melancholy crashing down like Joshua’s army at Jericho. I think about that when I listen to “The Old Year.” I wonder why those lonely folks don’t step out of their apartments and tap on each other’s doors. Ask them and they might say they “don’t want to be a bother” or they “don’t want to impose.” But, is a smile and a bit of a chat really an imposition?
Maybe, in this new year, we can all spread a new idea, a notion that reaching out in and for fellowship is neither burdensome nor unwelcome. Maybe we can remind ourselves that, if we’re all going to pass through Janus’ final gate alone, it can be nice to pass some of the time between then and now together.
of SCC & South County
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patrons to enjoy.
When it was time to retire, everything except his Italian statues were sold. They moved to Sun City Center, and it wasn’t long, and Carmine decided to utilize the lanai for a new village. He had his Italian statues, but everything else had to be replaced. Every year, he builds new houses in Italian style and purchases some new ones. A new village was born, and the lanai has almost reached capacity this year. His layout is realistic, and his handmade buildings blend well with American buildings.
Bob Sanchez Reporter bsanchez@soco.news
Andrea L.T. Peterson Reporter apeterson@soco.news
Nancy Jean Design and Layout art@soco.news
Gezil Andrews Reporter gandrews@soco.news
Advent Hospital
By Mike Lee
The new Advent Hospital Riverview opened in late October on 301, just to the north of Boyette Road. The hospital is committed to providing services that are needed in the south county area, including Sun City Center.
The hospital opened with 82 licensed beds and 24 Emergency Room beds. It was also built with future growth in mind, with a potential of about 200 total beds and additional operating rooms as population growth and community needs increase.
In addition to providing medical needs for the community, the hospital is partnering with several of the Sun City Center craft clubs to sell items that are produced by our residents in their gift shop. Many items have already been sold by the hospital. “I’m excited to share that many of them have sold within minutes,” according to Jordan Smith, Executive Director of Operations for the hospital. “Especially the Christmas stuff. I don’t think that was on the shelf for a very long time.”
CA Board Member Debbie Caneen spoke of recent board actions that helped to facilitate the cooperative effort with the hospital. “Since the CA Board recently updated our bylaws to allow for clubs to take products
partnering with Advent Health to host our SCCCA creations in their gift shop is a perfect fit. I’m excited to see the interest in our community that this might create.”
Smith added, “Advent Health is committed to delivering wholeperson care to the people we serve. This requires that we establish a connection with our community any way we can. Our hospital gift shop is an important place for people who visit the hospital. Beyond providing basic necessities, shopping can provide an important respite to families visiting loved ones in our facility. By partnering with the different clubs at Sun City Center for many of our wares, we have an opportunity to showcase high quality, handcrafted items manufactured right in our backyard.”
The hospital hit the ground running. According to Smith, in the first six weeks of operation, the hospital had 51 child births. They are projected to have about 1000 births in 2025. The hospital is a community hospital and not a trauma center, but there are many types of services provided. According to Smith, “We can do cardiac caths, we can deliver babies, we can help someone with pneumonia, gallbladder or appendix procedures. We do colonoscopies all day every day.”
does take patients to Advent, if their condition allows it.
“Oftentimes, patients will have a choice. If someone says my doctor is an Advent doctor and I’d like to be taken to their facility,” that may be able to be done, according to Smith.
On a lighter note, the hospital is very proud of their food offerings, both for their patients, and visitors alike. They have a top-of-the-line pizza oven, which cooks pizza at temperatures as high as 900 degrees. “The bricks are imported from Italy. It can cook a personal sized pan pizza in 90 seconds. All of our dough is made from scratch. All of our sauces are made from scratch. It’s really our feature piece,” according to Smith.
The hospital uses a room service type model for patients. They can order from a menu, and get what they want to eat, when they want to eat it, subject to dietary restrictions put into place by their doctor, of course. This includes the pizza! The hospital has also partnered with a local coffee shop to provide specialty coffee and pastries to their customers. It is felt that the food offerings are of such quality that some people may visit solely to eat there.
Advent has also built a new medical facility that is attached to the main hospital. This facility houses offices for doctors, space for follow-up visits with their patients, and a large amount of therapy space.
South Shore Democrats Club
Thursday, January 2
St Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W Del Webb
All likeminded people are welcome. Hear representatives from local, regional, state and national government and organizations speak on issues that affect our lives in Florida. “Politics is all local” Light refreshments will be served. Help with voter registration and Vote By Mail renewals will be available. www.southshoredemocrats. org or “SSDmembership@gmail.com”.
SCC Republican Club
Tuesday, January 28, at 2 p.m.
St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1230 West Del Webb Blvd.
All Republicans and like-minded voters are invited to attend. The Club meets every month on the 4th Tuesday. Entrance is at the rear of the building. Social time, including light refreshments, precedes the meeting. Each month we present local government officials or candidates for questions and answers. Come early to meet our speakers.
Landsharks Fundraiser
By Mike Lee
The Security Patrol is hosting a return of the Landsharks in a fundraising concert on February 9 at 2 p.m. 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 and 3, Monday through Friday. Get your tickets early, and help the Security Patrol maintain their critical service to the community.
COMMUNITY
Men’s Club Monthly Meeting
The Men’s Club of Sun City Center will be meeting at Community Hall on South Pebble Beach Blvd. on Wednesday January 15. Our guest speakers will be presenting information on visual challenges in older adults. A buffet lunch is served after the presentation. Please join us for this informative presentation. Doors open at 11 a.m.
Beth Israel Sisterhood Meeting
Tuesday, January 7, at 1 p.m.
Beth Israel’s Social Hall, 1115 Del Webb Blvd.
Beth Israel Sisterhood will learn about the new Moffitt Center opening in Ruskin. Jazmin Calzada, Director of Nursing and Ambulatory Clinic Operations, Moffitt Cancer Center, will discuss the new Moffitt Center. You don’t need to be a member of Beth Israel to join the Sisterhood. For information about the meeting, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.
All About Bees
Tuesday, January 14, at 9:30 a.m.
Redeemer Lutheran, 701 Valley Forge Blvd.
“All About Bees” — Sam Goodwin, a licensed Florida beekeeper and Army veteran, will be covering the three types of honey bees found in a hive; their differences and specific jobs. He will talk about pollination, food gathering, honey production, bee removals, reproduction, what it’s like to keep bees in Florida, and give handson experience.
Beekeeping equipment will be on display and participants will be encouraged to touch, explore and ask questions. If interested, his honey will be available after the talk. The program will begin with a complimentary breakfast. The event is free, but registration is required. To register, call the church office at 813-634-1292 by January 11 and leave your name and phone number.
South Shore SAR to Host Luncheon
Saturday, January 11, begins at 11:30 a.m. 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, contact William Simms at “wmsimms1@ gmail.com” or call (309) 826-6554 (text or leave message).
“Saturday mornings at Our Lady’s Pantry in Wimauma don’t just happen,” said director Tom Bullaro. “It takes many hands to package all the food we put in our clients’ cars each week. But here, on Saturday, November 17, were girls on the basketball team from Sumner High School, and their coach, Tiana. They had a game late in the morning, but arrived at the Pantry near dawn to lend a hand for a couple of hours before their game. So many ways to say, ‘I care.’ Thank you, Sumner High!” said Bullaro.
The planned program will feature a presentation by Gordon Bassett who will speak about his experience in Vietnam while at Pleiku Air Base. He was assigned as a pilot to the 362nd Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron. The talk is entitled “Combat Cougar-A Flyer’s Story.” He flew 155 combat missions in an old, WWII vintage C-47, from July 1968 to July 1969, and will discuss its battlefield reconnaissance mission. Gordon is a Charter Member of the Southshore Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution and served as its first President (2013-14). He is a retired USAF Command Pilot and also served as a Strategic Air Command FB-111A fighter/bomber commander and as an air attaché in Brazil.
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.
continued from page 4.
CAHT Have A Heart Bingo Fundraiser
February 28, from 5 to 9:30 p.m.
SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach
The Campaign Against Human Trafficking - Southshore (CAHT) invites you to our Have a Heart Bingo Fundraiser. There will be snacks, prizes for winners. For questions, email Helen at “dogsrgreat@ brighthouse.com”.
CAHT Meeting
January 21, at 4 p.m.
Florida Room, SCC Atrium
January is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. CAHT’s January meeting will feature the movie “Don’t Say My Name”. This movie is set in Florida and is the story of Adrienne, a trafficked young woman who was rescued. The movie shares her story as she overcomes the trauma and struggles to pick up the pieces of her life.
Eagle Audubon Society Meeting
January 20, doors open at 1 p.m.
St. Andrew, 1239 West Del Webb Blvd.
The meeting and program on the gopher tortoise. Our speaker is Dr. Jeffrey M. Goessling. He is on the faculty of Eckerd College where he maintains an undergraduate lab. His focus is on reptiles and his most frequently studied species is the gopher tortoise. His talk will focus on several ongoing studies concerning gopher tortoise conservation and threats to their population.
There is no charge for attending and we welcome all who are interested. Check out our website “eagleaudubon.org” or like us on Facebook at “facebook.com// eagle1984”.
Daughters
of the American Revolution
Wednesday, January 15, at 12:30 p.m.
Atrium Building
The meeting will start with a social time for light refreshments. Our regular meeting will then begin promptly at 1 with a program titled simply “Á Marine’s Experience: Quang Tri to Khe Sahn” presented by William Adkins, Sr.
All members and their guests are welcome to attend our DAR meetings. Are you interested in learning more about DAR or delving into your family history and traditions put in place by your ancestors years ago. When you begin a search of your Family Tree you might find a Patriot that was part of the Revolution and the foundation of our country. Come join us and we will help you with your search. For more information about our meetings or family search, email us at “darcgmb@aol.com”.
Understanding Your Health and Medications
January 16, starting at 10 a.m.
POP’s Conesa Center, 702 Valley Forge Blvd, SCC
Do you ever feel like you are taking too many medications? Have you ever wondered how to make your medications work better for you? Do medication and healthcare costs seem like a burden? Is staying out of the hospital important to you? If you or someone you know answers yes to any of these questions, Prince of Peace Catholic Church’s Health Ministry has a great program for you. Pharmacist Patrick Alonso will be presenting on these topics and answering your healthcare and medication related questions. Patrick Alonso is a licensed and practicing pharmacist, and is passionate about helping people optimize their healthcare. RSVP by January 13 to “www.popcc.org/health-meds”.
GFWC Sun City Center Woman’s Club
January Meeting
The January General Meeting of the GFWC Sun City Center Woman’s Club will be held in person on Thursday, January 16, at Community Hall. The doors open at 11 a.m. for sign in and meet and greet time. Buffet lunch and program will follow. Optional attire for this meeting is blue in support of CAHT. The January program will feature Lou Anne Rossdeutscher, President of Campaign Against Human Trafficking. She will tell us about the local organization and introduce us to a survivor who will share her story.
All members attending the meeting need to make a reservation in advance by 11 a.m. on Monday, January 13. Please email “suncitywomansclub@gmail.co7ed buffet for $20 is to be paid at check-in. More information will be provided to the club members in the January 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 727-510-0123, if you have any questions. We are part of GFWC, a national organization, and are exempt from SCCCA guest fees.
November Winners
Galaxy
Bridge
Here are the winners from November Galaxy Bridge Luncheon.
Debra Schneider was the lucky winner of a luxury cruise in a fundraiser that was sponsored by the Sun City Center Security Patrol. Schneider will be aboard Celebrity’s newest cruise ship, the Ascent, in April. The Patrol thanks everyone that purchased entries, as this fundraiser helped them to continue to provide their essential services to help make the Sun City Center area the safest area in Hillsborough County.
Wisconsin Club Event
January 22, at 5 p.m.
Kings Point North Clubhouse
Extravaganza 2.0. North Clubhouse Banquet room. Menu will be pizza and salad. Please bring a dessert to share. Reservations and payment due by January 17. Please mail reservations to: Mary Kay Johns, 1618 Faxton Drive, Sun City Center, FL 33573 For questions contact Mary Kay at 920-901-2893. People wanting to sit together must provide all names and payments in one envelope. No walk-ins or payment at the door. Public is welcome. Info: suncitywisconsinclub.com.
South Bay Genealogical Society Meeting
Tuesday, January 21, at 10:30 a.m.
Round Table Discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon at noon, at the United Methodist Church in the Life Enrichment Center [LEC], 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. Following lunch, at about 1 p.m., our guest speaker, Lori Coffey, will present “The CCCs History and Records”.
The cost is $18 per person for the meal and presentation. For reservations and meal choice, call Vicki at 360-608-1647. Make your check payable to SBGS, and mail to South Bay Genealogical Society, PO Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571. Your check must be received in our PO Box by January 12. Allow 4-5 days for mailing.
Woman’s Club Snowman Crafts
The GFWC Sun City Center Woman’s Club members have been making snowman crafts at senior living facilities. The resident’s hands stayed warm as they used recycled coffee creamer plastic bottles as the base, then added a yarn cap, a red fleece scarf, and black rhinestones for eyes and buttons. A fun way to celebrate the winter season in Florida.
The Sun City Center Rotary Club received two District awards at the annual Rotary Foundation Gala in November. Both awards were associated with club support of the Rotary International Foundation. The RI Foundation supports hundreds of charitable projects around the world. The first award recognized that every club member participated in reaching the donation goal, with only four of the 33 District clubs receiving this recognition. The second award was for the average donation amount per club member.
The SCC Rotary Club meets each Tuesday for lunch with a topical speaker at Freedom Fairways clubhouse. For more information visit its Facebook page at “facebook.com/RotarySCC” or call Bill (membership) at 813-634-3936.
Mrs. Florida Living With Passion and Purpose
By Gezil Andrews
What does it take to win the Mrs. Florida contest? Amber Uhler, Mrs. Florida 2024, shares her inspiring story of how she claimed the title through her passion, determination, and advocacy for water safety.
Amber credits her win to her mission-driven platform, not just her appearance. “Beauty fades, but purpose endures,” she says. Amber’s commitment to water safety stems from a deeply personal experience—surviving a drowning as a child. Her life was saved thanks to the quick actions of her older brother, and now she works tirelessly to ensure other families don’t have to face similar tragedies.
Two years ago, Amber’s passion for drowning prevention became even more personal when she saved a child’s life at a pool party in Land O’ Lakes, Florida. She emphasizes that many non-fatal drowning incidents go unreported, even though they often leave lasting impacts.
Amber is a strong advocate for Florida Senate House Bill 514.073, the Swimming Lesson Voucher Program, which provides free swimming lessons to children from low-income families. “Water safety isn’t just a cause— it’s a necessity,” she says.
As a mother of three—ages 5, 7, and 8—Amber ensures her own children are strong swimmers, a skill she sees as nonnegotiable. Married to Jamison Uhler, morning anchor at 10 Tampa Bay. The couple met over a decade ago after Amber reached out to Jamison on Facebook following one of his newscasts. “The rest is history,” she laughs. Amber’s personal journey is equally inspiring. Once weighing nearly 300 pounds, she dedicated over a year to
Rotary Holiday Cheer at Plaza West
The Sun City Center Rotary Club visited the Plaza West Health Center to share some holiday cheer, including a group sing-a-long. Club member Bill Greer accompanied on the piano, with overall coordination of the event by Kathleen Stasia. A good time was had by all. The SCC Rotary Club meets each Tuesday for lunch at Freedom Fairways. For more information visit its Facebook page at facebook.com./RotarySCC or call Bill (membership) at 813-6343936.
Brian A. Messick, WeberMessick Wealth Management, and Sean Gottleib, Affordable Home Mortgage, Inc. were guest speakers at the monthly luncheon meeting of the Sun City Center Men’s Club. Mr. Gottleib reviewed the types of lenders available to borrowers and then spoke about the various mortgages borrowers might choose. Mr. Messick, a financial planner, discussed the history of investing in the United States, the risks and rewards in investments in different categories and the graphic illustration of investing for the long term. The SCC Men’s Club is open to members of the Sun City Center CA and residents of Kings Point. For more information call Bruce Fraser, VP of Membership at 813 419 4013.
transforming her health. Today, she prioritizes fitness and selfcare to serve as a role model for women, proving that resilience and determination can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Recently crowned Mrs. Universe USA, Amber now takes her advocacy to a global level.
Originally from Indiana, she moved to Florida at age 20 to pursue career opportunities and has continued to lead with empathy and teamwork.
In addition to her pageant work, Amber holds a full-time role as Director of Learning and Engagement at Reify Health, where she champions diversity, equity, and inclusion while organizing impactful company events.
Amber will be the featured speaker at the AAUW monthly meeting on January 11 at 9:30 a.m. at the Sun City Center Atrium in the Florida Room. She looks forward to sharing her message of hope, goal setting, and perseverance. Attendees are welcome to join her afterward for photos and conversation.
Amber Uhler’s story is one of courage, transformation, and dedication. She reminds us all that with purpose and passion, we can overcome challenges and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Under Cover of Darkness: An Interview With Author Simon Scarrow
By Andrea L.T. Peterson
It was hard not to be distracted by the absolutely beautiful Indian Ocean in the background as I conducted a Zoom interview with author Simon Scarrow. Scarrow, author of “The Eagles of the Empire” and the “Berlin Wartime Thriller” series, lives on the island nation of Mauritius. Several years ago, living in England but having been born and raised overseas, neither he nor his new bride thought England “felt like home.” They “didn’t like what was happening in the UK since the nation pulled out of the European Union. There was so much anger over politics.”
there was scope for a whole series rather than just one book. The Alderney book will feature later on,” he added.
They thought of moving somewhere. Their first thought was Costa Rica, but they settled on Mauritius for their honeymoon and a friend encouraged them to move there. Among the appealing attributes of the island nation were “the people and the relaxed working ethic.” If his novels are any indication of the conducive environment, I say, “stay there!”
Scarrow has penned more than 20 works of historical fiction in the Eagles of the Empire series. The novels introduce and develop two principles—Quintus Licinius Cato and Lucius Cornelius Macro--in the Roman Empire during the reign of Emperor Claudius. It’s 42 A.D. and as the series continues, readers follow the friendship and careers of these two Imperial Roman Army officers.
But what interested me more, however, was Scarrow’s Berlin Wartime thrillers, which obviously take place in Berlin during the Nazi reign. Scarrow’s shift from the Roman Empire to WWII, was “quite accidental,” says the author.
“I’ve always been interested in the broad sweep of history,” so “the period switch from the Roman Empire to WWII” wasn’t especially odd.
He attended the Alderney Literary Festival, an annual event held each March in the historic Island Hall, Alderney’s seat of government, to celebrate historical literature, and thought “this island would be a fabulous place to set a murder mystery. Several hundred German troops, four thousand Spanish and French concentration workers, thirty-odd islanders and a serial killer on the loose among them on an island 3.5 miles long and just 1.5 miles wide” seemed ready for such a thriller. The island is the northernmost Channel in the English Channel, just 8 miles from the West coast of Normandy for those of you who are geography buffs!
“I then backtracked on the research to look at policing in Berlin during WWII and realized
His research made it clear that the story of a serial killer running around in Berlin under cover of the darkness of the blackout, seemed to be the perfect setting for his current Berlin Thriller series, Scarrow needed to have a detective sent there to make it work. His creation was Criminal Inspector Schenke, a former motorcar racing star whose career had crashed quite literally along with his race car a few years earlier.
With so much about Nazi Germany available online, the historical research was not as challenging as for some historical novels and Scarrow does a masterful job weaving his fiction around the historical facts and his own experiences wandering around Berlin getting a feel for the city. “Unless you actually go there [to the city in which you set your historical novel] you miss the details. Berlin is a fascinating city to visit.” The history is visible with “bullet and shell marks in the buildings. I talked to re-enactors and went as far into the setting as I feasibly could,” he told me.
I asked him what he learned or what was new to him as he explored the city and the historical documentation from the years he intended to cover in his first novel, “Blackout”. He told me, “I knew there had been a blackout, but I was not aware of how that changed life in Berlin. Crime shot up. Berlin became a very different city than in the days before.”
He explained how an author must “use your imagination to paint the scene with words, like a film playing out in your mind. You can see it in your mind’s eye.
“Characters based on historical figures [was not too difficult]. Prominent Nazis are deeply embedded in the
research documents. Berlin is not one of the biggest capitals in the world. Characters had occasion, [in reality and, hence, in his fiction] to run into each other or see one another on the street. Enemies and allies could appear anywhere. Heydrich,” he elaborated, “had his finger in everything” and could be encountered anywhere.
In his third book, A Death in Berlin, Scarrow says by way of illustration, “Detective Inspector Horst Schenke is invited to a party; everyone is there, including Hitler. So many depictions of him [Hitler] are two dimensional. Fuhrer was a fanatic about motor car racing.
In the novel, he is a gushing fan, a great enthusiast of one of his favorite motorcar racing celebrities—Schenke.
I asked who gets bumped off in the next book. “I don’t know yet. I don’t plan it,” he says. “It happens as I’m writing. If it doesn’t surprise the writer, it doesn’t surprise the reader,” he adds, paraphrasing the Robert Frost quote: “No surprise for the writer, no surprise for the reader.”
“One of the beauties of writing...you often find the unexpected...something that hadn’t occurred to you. I only do 50% of the work. What we end up with is up to the reader. It’s a unique experience.”
Military News
Attention all Military Veterans
The next meeting of the American Legion Post 246 will be held on Friday, January 17, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 3, CA Community Hall,1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd., SCC.
Our guest speaker will be Master Deputy Jeff Merry who will provide an update on various frauds and scams, particularly those targeting military veterans and their spouses. The program will include further discussions on next year’s budget, how to expand our Post activities to better support our community veterans, and to further explore fundraising activities.
For 2025 planning purposes, American Legion Post 246 will meet on every 3rd Friday of every month in 2025 at 9:30 a.m. in Room 3 in the CA Community Hall. Coffee and donuts will be available at 9 a.m. All veterans and spouses are welcome. For information call Paul Wheat at 813-391-7309 or email at “pawheatjr@aol.com”.
Sun City Center Resident Pastor Mac Clements at 10:30 this Sunday Morning 9912 Indiana Street Gibsonton, FL or enjoy our service
www.1stbaptistgibsonton.com
Beth Israel Sisterhood and the new Moffit Center
Beth Israel Sisterhood will learn about the new Moffitt Center opening in Ruskin at their meeting on Tuesday, January 7 at 1 p.m. in Beth Israel’s Social Hall, 1115 Del Webb Blvd, East. Jazmin Calzada, Director of Nursing and Ambulatory Clinic Operations, Moffitt Cancer Center, will discuss the new Moffitt Center. 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 “Safer Home for Seniors,” “Thrifty Fashionista Competition,” Women’s Passover Luncheon, and Lunch/Installation of Officers. For information about the meeting, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.
FAITH &service
Rummage Sale
Friday, February 7, from 8 to 2 p.m. Saturday, February 8, from 8 to 1 p.m. Redeemer Lutheran, 701 Valley Forge Blvd. There will be numerous household items, tools, clothing, a boutique, collectibles, jewelry, crafts, toys, a bake sale, and a lot MORE. Save the date as this is a large sale that you won’t want to miss. Many bargains will be available.
Southshore Women’s Luncheon
“Search No More”
All women are invited to a Luncheon on Wednesday, January 8, 2025. “Search No More” is the luncheon theme hosted by the SouthShore Women’s Connection.
Our Feature will be Debbie Harrell, Beauties and Boots National Military Consultant. Come see and hear how the Beauties and Boots Military team is connecting women across the nation, through a movement that inspires women to walk in their own shoes while marching through all stages of Military life – always changing. Our Guest Speaker, Sara Im, will share her story, “Find Hope in the Midst of Adversity”.
You’ll enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by Chef Joe and served by the wonderful volunteers at UMC for only $20 (including dessert!). As always, we will have fun Door Prizes for you to take home. Please join us at the Life Enrichment Center of the Sun City Center United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center, Florida. The doors open at 11:00; the program runs from 11:30 - 1:30. Reservations and payments are required by January 2. Please call Nancy with your reservation at 813-454-5509 or email her at “mndecker1971@yahoo.com” by Wednesday, January 2 and send your $20 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.
Happy Stitchers Bless Others
Throughout the year, the Happy Stitchers group that meets twice a month on Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m. at the St. Andrew Presbyterian Church on 1239 Del Webb West, provides prayer shawls, lap blankets and chemo caps to needy individuals.
Twice a year, Laura Heinrich, Community Relations Director from Cypress Creek ALF, receives handmade blankets to present to her new residents. We are looking for new members. If you’d like to volunteer and share your time and talents during our midweek sessions or at home, we are looking for additional helpers, yarn donations, and, of course, monetary donations are gladly accepted. Please contact Lou at “lou.putman@gmail.com” or 574-276-4693.
Galaxy Members Food Donation
At the November Galaxy Bridge Members collected food for the needy at the United Methodist Church Food Pantry. Chef Joe is the cook at the Church.
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.
Streisand Tribute January 4, at 2 p.m.
SCC Gazebo, Cherry Hills
Professional actress and singer from Youngstown, Ohio, Liz Rubino performing a tribute to Barbara Streisand concert. Joining Liz Rubino will be Harold Davis with a tribute to Neil Diamond music and fun Rodney Dangerfield jokes.
January Events at SCC United Methodist
1971 Haverford Avenue
Country Gospel Group of the Year Performs Friday, January 3, at 7 p.m.
Small Town Sunday, the awardwinning, country vocal band find themselves living in a brand-new time with a brand-new purpose. Tickets are $15 advance and $20 at the door.
Comedian, Ventriloquist and Musician Taylor Mason Returns Sunday, January 12, at 7 p.m.
Taylor Mason has blazed his own trail of unique entertainment. Tickets are $15 advance, $20 at the door for adults and $5 for children 10-17.
Neil Diamond Tribute Returns
Friday, January 17, at 7 p.m.
Keith Allynn began his career at the age of 14 in stand-up comedy opening for such acts as Chris Rock, Tim Allen, and Robin Williams. At 21 he discovered his musical talents. Tickets: $20 advance and $25 at the door.
Christian Comedian Dennis Swanberg Returns Friday, January 24, at 7 p.m.
If laughter is truly the best medicine, then Dennis “The Swan” Swanberg is just what the doctor ordered. Tickets: $15 advance and $20 at the door.
American Pride presents “A Statler Brothers Tribute”
Friday, January 31, at 7 p.m.
Today you can relive the musical memories of The Statler Brothers through American Pride. They have captured the true authenticity of The Statler Brothers sound, keeping the legacy alive. Tickets: $20 advance, $25 at the door.
Tickets for all events available at the Pages of Life Book Store Sun 9:30-12:30 and M-Th-10-2, Church Office M-Th 8:30-4 and online at www.sccumc.com/events.
SCC Men’s Chorus Begins Spring Season
The Sun City Center Men’s Chorus is soon starting their spring concert season. Rehearsals begin on Thursday, January 2, and every Thursday afternoon through March, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the Sanctuary at SCC United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave., Sun City Center.
This lively, fun group of men thoroughly enjoy singing 4-part harmony in a Choral setting and are looking to invite new members to join. If you enjoy singing and have any past experience in singing choral music in high school, college, community, or church, they are seeking your talent to join them.
You may come to one of their first practices, contact their president, Patrick O’Dell at 863-640-0487, or contact any member, if you are so inclined to become a member or for more information. They look forward to meeting you.
DANCING
New York Club Dance
The New York Club is having a dinner dance on Monday, January 6, 2025 in the Kings Point Veterans Theater at 5. Music by Gene Cannon. Food by Banquet Masters which includes roast pork with apples, stuffed shells, meatloaf, salad and dessert bar, coffee and iced tea. We have a singles table. Cost for members is only $25 and $28.50 for guests. For further information, please contact Frank Gatto at 813 633 8942.
Do You Wanna Dance Club
January 25, from 7 to 10 p.m.
SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach
Put on your dancing shoes and come out and dance the night away to the sounds of the Florida Hit Machine. Open to SCC CA, Kings Point Activity Card, Freedom Plaza Access, and Guest Pass Holders. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, January 20 ,22 ,24 and at the door on January 25. Doors open at 6 p.m. (ticket sales will end promptly at 7 p.m.). Tickets $5 members and $10 nonmembers. BYOB. You can purchase a yearly membership for $35. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. For more information email “jfkfunnsun@ yahoo.com”, “bgocek1@gmail.com”.
Senior Social Dance
Thursday, January 9, from 6:30-9 p.m.
St. John Divine, 1015 Del Webb East
Dances are always open to everyone. Admission is $6 per person 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 ‘.
Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club
Saturday, January 4, from 7 to 9 p.m.
SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.
Extend your New Year’s Celebration by joining the Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club in a public event. A portion of the money received will benefit local Hurricane Milton relief. Your live performer will be Thor Stevens. Dance to your favorites; country two step, a line dance or two, west coast swing, night club two step, swing, chacha, waltz, etc. Dress is casual attire, no shorts! BYOB and snacks. Water and ice will be served. Bring your friends, or come and make new friends. Yes, there will be a singles table. 2025 Club members are free; everyone else is $6 each. You don’t have to be a SCC Association member to attend. ALL are welcome! For more info, call Peter Steitz at 608-609-0309. See you there!
Dancing continued on page 11.
we look forward to more wonderful times together. The 2024-2025 Entertainment Series continues in January with Frequency Band kicking off the month on January 17 at 7 p.m. $20., followed by Boy Band Evolution on Sunday January 26 at 2:30 pm. $20. And to end the month we have the William Clare Entertainment Showcase on Tuesday January 28 at 2 p.m. $11. February brings an added show of Three Comics and A Dog, Wednesday February 26 at 7 p.m., $10. This show is table seating so it’s BYOB, and bring your snacks as well. All shows will be held at the Community Hall 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. All shows are open to the public and tickets can be purchased at the Atrium Kiosk, 945 N. Course Lane, Monday/Wednesday & Friday 10-12 p.m., please remember we only accept cash or check.
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
January 12, from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Kings Point Veterans Theater, North Clubhouse
Doors open at 6 p.m. Music provided by LB & Chloe. All are welcome. BYOB with water and ice provided. Cost is $6. Questions? Call Ken at 513-582-8449 or Rosemary at 513-258-8238.
“New Years Glitz and Glamour” Dance
Kings Point Dance Club
Wednesday, January 22, from 7 to 9 p.m.
Kings Point Veteran’s Theater, 1900 Clubhouse Drive
Doors open 6:30 p.m. Ballroom Music by: DJ’s Mike and Peg. All KP, SCC, Singles and guests are welcome. Dress code, dressy casual, no shorts. BYOB. Members free, guests $5. If you have questions call Eileen 813-296-4038.
Social Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons
January, 6, 13, 20, 27
4 p.m. Silver Foxtrot
5 p.m. Intermediate 2 Nightclub 2-Step
6 p.m. Intermediate 1 Rumba
7 p.m. Beginning East Coast Swing
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: $8 for one class or four weeks of classes for $30. All are invited to attend.
Sun City Center Dance Club
January 11, from 7 to 9 p.m.
SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Dance & celebrate the beginning of a New Year with a toast and chocolates. Open to the public fundraiser for the SCC Emergency Squad. Come celebrate the New Year at Sun City Center Dance Club’s open dance. This is an “open to the public” dance so everyone is welcome!
Crowd pleaser DJ couple Mike & Peg will be playing all your favorite dance music from old greats like Frank Sinatra, as well as contemporary artists to include waltz, foxtrot, east & west coast swing, tango, hustle, night club 2 and more like the ever popular line dances. To toast the New Year, a bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly will be on each table along with chocolates to satisfy your sweet tooth. BYOB plus all your friends as well to celebrate with you!
SCC Dance Club members attend free. All others are only $6 per person at the door. Wear your New Year’s Eve attire that you didn’t get to wear or come casual (no shorts). For questions or additional information, please call Sue Hicks at 813-633-6682.
Line Dance Fun Club News
Dancers from Line Dance Fun donned their festive attire and brought a little cheer and entertainment to the folks at Freedom Plaza Assisted Living on Saturday, December 7. Line Dance Fun will be participating in the World of Dance Fundraiser at Community Hall on Saturday evening, 6-9 p.m., January 18. Line Dance Fun offers Sun City Center classes on Tuesday and Thursday afternoon to all levels. If you would like any further information please contact Mike Hanson at 408-406-9895 or “linedancefunofscc@gmail.com”.
Do You Wanna Dance Club
January 31, from 7 to 10 p.m.
SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach
Open to everyone in SCC and surrounding communities. Come dance like nobody’s watching to the sounds of the Fulcos, a Tampa Bay favorite. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, January 27, 29, 31. Doors open at 6 p.m. (ticket sales will end promptly at 7 p.m.). Tickets $5 members and $10 nonmembers. BYOB. You can purchase a yearly membership for $35. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. For more information email “jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com” or “bgocek1@gmail.com”.
Par for the Chorus
By Mike Lee
Par For the Chorus, complete with their first female member, held a charity show in front of a capacity crowd recently in the Rollins Theater. Proceeds from the show went to the Community Association Future Facilities Fund, and to the chorus.
The show was presented in the style of radio broadcasts from the past, and included traditional Christmas music and old-time radio commercials, with some humor, admittedly corny, mixed in. The format was presented by a fictional radio station, WSUN.
Symphony of Color Renewal
THU. JAN 9, 16, 23, 30OPTIMAL 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.”
FRI. JAN 10 - LOW VISION
SUPPORT GROUP 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. at 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. This month we are having a presentation on all things Meta Glasses. Find out why this is
one of the hottest products for the blind and low vision community. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice. org”.
TUE. JAN 14 - TAKE THE AARP
SMART DRIVER COURSE 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (please arrive 20 minutes early) Location: Sun City Center Atrium Bldg., 945 North Course Ln - Caper Room, Sun City Fl. 33573. Take the AARP Smart Driver™ course and you may save money on your car insurance! To Register: (630) 621-0435. Course payment by check or money order made out to AARP. Members bring AARP cards. Everyone can bring lunch.
TUE. JAN 14 - HEARING AID
TOWN HALL! 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Kings Point Ripple Room. All SCC residents are welcome! Hearing Aid Town Hall. Get all your questions answered! Presented by Dr. Alaina D. Becker, Au.D. Board Certified Audiologist and Owner of Clarity Hearing. Must register to attend: “clarityhearinghdd.com/ seminar-registration” or 813-9222119.
THU. JAN 16 - 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? This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Call to schedule today! (813) 331-3035.
MON. JAN 20 - PARKINSON’S
SUPPORT GROUP 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. This month, we welcome Christopher Nercesian, Ph.D., M.Ed., BCBA - Chairman, President, and teammate of the Christopher J. Nercesian Foundation. Dr. Nercesian was diagnosed with Friedreich’s Ataxia (FA) when he was 16-years-old. He has extensively researched natural treatments, and obtained a doctorate in Natural Medicine from Kingdom College of Natural Health. Attend this meeting to learn what options might relate to symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease. 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. JAN 21 - 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 309-6601091. Gezil also has a blog for all who deal with Essential Tremors: “Awomanandherstories.com”.
THU. JAN 23 - GAME DAY 4th Thursday of every month from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. in Sun Towers Retirement Community Theater Room, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Join the hottest new club that aims to get you playing those games you used to love but no longer have the eyes to do. Trivia, Bingo, Dominoes, Rummikub, and Left Center Right to name a few. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.
Security Patrol Annual Meeting
By Mike Lee
The SCC Security Patrol recently held its annual appreciation luncheon, coupled with their annual meeting to provide updates of the Patrol and election of officers. Special guests included representatives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
Current Board President Bob Lochte updated the members on the status of the Patrol. He indicated that the Patrol currently has 600 volunteers. “The spirit of volunteerism that we talk a lot about in Sun City Center is something that is truly alive with this group,” he said. He thanked the members for their great response after Helene and Milton. “We kept up our operations with a skeleton crew for a few days. We were able to respond to the wellness checks, which we had a ton of,” he said. Patrol Chief Tim Broad indicated that the Patrol has gotten 93 new members since the last annual meeting. New volunteers are always needed, due to attrition. We’ve done a lot more with the community this year. We’ve worked with the CA on the FunFest and the golf cart parade,” he said. “We’ve extended our patrolling, so now
we patrol the area from Home Depot’s shopping area right through the Walmart shopping area on the other end of town, with the idea being that we are looking after the residents of Sun City by making sure that crime is minimal in their shopping areas,” he added.
Broad continued, “I would just like to thank the most important people in the Security Patrol; our members, our drivers, our dispatchers and our riders. Without you, we wouldn’t exist.” New officers that were elected were Dick Hillyer, President; Kevin Connell, Vice President; Fred Fiedler, Treasurer; and Donna Dickenson, Secretary. Directors at Large will be Karla Van Horn, Jeff Stephanz and the Chief of the Patrol.
The Security Patrol is always looking for volunteers. A variety of positions are available, including drivers and dispatchers, among others. The Patrol only asks for a minimum of three hours per month. Snowbirds are welcome as well. If you are interested in volunteering for the Patrol, please call (813) 642-2020 between 9 and 3 Monday through Friday, or stop by the office at 1225 N. Pebble Beach Boulevard
continued from page 1.
they come to the hospital. Typically, each owner brings their dog once a week. When asked about how patients receive the dogs, Bishop replied, “For the most part, very positive. When I train, I tell them to approach the rooms very cautiously.” She went on to indicate that they want to respect patients that may be
allergic to dogs or may just not be comfortable around dogs. The volunteers recently all came together with their pups at the hospital to have a dog parade for the holidays. The parade brought smiles to the faces of patients and staff alike, which is especially helpful when people are facing difficult times in their lives.
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
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
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
"Please scan this QR code or visit www.SOCO.news/about and click on "Where in the World" to submit your photograph for the contest."
Sign Up f or The
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.
The
WhThe 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,
Manatee Festival at Crystal River
By Kai Rambow
It’s improved over the years. This year the dates are January 18 and 19. The key: the weather. This is one destination that I’m going to pay attention to the weather. There have been years where I have cancelled on the day. It raining, cancelled. It’s cold, cancelled. It’s… you get the idea. This is really important since most of it is outdoors. Keep in mind that the weather conditions can be different between here and there. Leave early. It will require a twohour drive. While an easy drive, you will need to pay attention in some sections. Use your GPS.
Opening time is 9 a.m., so no need to leave earlier than 7 a.m.
At the festival, follow these directions. Arrive early. Board the shuttle bus. When you arrive in town, get off your bus and onto the bus that lead to the springs. Do this right away. If you’re late or delayed, you will have to line up and wait.
Take the bus back when done. You should see manatees by the boatful. It is fun to wander about. You should spot all kinds of manatees. If the weather beckons, manatees will enter the river and disappear. Another reason for getting there early.
When you get into town, enjoy the vendors. You’ll find plenty of variety. Spread out over several streets you’ll need to find your
way carefully. Best to mark spots on a map and keep an eye out for bargains. We spent two hours each just checking it all out.
Homosassa Springs
Literally just around the corner. It is a ten to fifteen minute drive. Homosassa Springs has developed facilities to rescue and rehabilitate all kinds of Florida wildlife. You’ll see just about any wildlife you expect to see in Florida, plus some extras. There is a hippopotamus, a holdover from the roadside days.
Note: both destinations involve quiet a bit of walking.
Tips for a Great Trip
Weather: This is the most challenging part of planning a trip here. Almost everything takes place outside.
Dress warm. You’ll be better served to dress to warm. Since you will be outside, most of the day, it should be a fine day.
Eating: Food options are rather limited. Best to decide
it’s hard to miss seeing a manatee at the festival.
on a place and eat. Eating in town is better than searching for something on the outside. Eating on the way in, consider stopping in Brookville at Wawa or McDonalds.
Parking: Follow the signs for parking.
Fees: $10 for the Manatee festival; and $15 for Homosassa Manatee Festival Downtown Crystal River, FL 34428 (352) 795-3149 gomanateefest.com
9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Park 4150 S. Suncoast Blvd. Homosassa, FL 34449
SPORTS
LAWN BOWLING • TENNIS • GOLF • SOFTBALL• PICKLEBALL & MORE!
Sun City Center Sunsations
The Sun City Center Sunsations competitive tennis team finished their fall season on December 18 with a 3-2 win against River Hills.
Lawn Bowling League Winners
By Garry Higgins
The winner of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club’s annual Tuesday League was the team of Paddy Lennon, Steve Parks and Fred Kalhammer. Eighteen teams competed over five Tuesdays with Paddy’s team being the only one going undefeated. The runner up was the team of Larry Johnson, Pam Davis, and Jim Blaine.
Congratulations, Tuesday League Winners, the team of Steve Parks, Paddy Lennon, and Fred Kalhammer
League play is only one aspect of lawn bowling. Whether a social bowler or a competitive player, the club is sure to have an activity of interest to you. For more information about the club and lawn bowling, visit “suncitycenterlbc.com” or drop by the club, located behind the library.
By Garry Higgins
Each year the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club hosts several tournaments that are open to members of Bowls USA. The latest event was the “Joe Mignogna Open Pairs” with 22 teams competing. The winners of the men’s competition, with three wins, was the team of Eric Porr and Wayne Christie. Winners on the women’s side, also with three wins, was Cindy Higgins pairing up with Cassandra Furlong.
Besides various championship title games, Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club members enjoy out-of-club tournaments, league play, less competitive “Morning Bowls” and the very popular and the very social, “Night Bowls”. For more information or to sign up for free lessons, visit www.suncitycenterlbc.com
Caloosa Country Club Hole-in-One
Caloosa Country Club
member Don Coty did a feat that is extremely rare. On Friday November 29, he got a Holein-One on #17 that gave him 4 Hole-in-Ones, all on different holes: Numbers 3, 7, 13, and now 17. He used his 8-iron and it was like the ball had eyes, it rolled right into the middle of the hole. The shot was witnessed by: Roger Klasse. Paul Turner, and Jack D. Entremont.
CCC Sunday Golf Mixer
Caloosa Golf and Country Club in Sun City Center has a monthly 2nd Sunday 18 hole mixer. December’s mixer was hosted by Randy & Judy Peterson. It was a beautiful sunny Florida day. The winning team with Rich Huss as the captain won with a 73.
State Champions for Senior Basketball
By Bob Monahan
This group of senior basketball players won the state senior championship title at the December 7 Games at Wesley Chapel. They won the 75 age bracket by defeating the 70 age competitors in the 3 on 3 games. Twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays they play on two indoor cushioned courts ideal for senior knees. One court features seniors 50 to 65 while the other features 65 to 80 attendees. Players can play on either court for pickup games . No one is turned down and friendship and sportsmanship are most important. Call Southshore Basketball President Bob Monahan atm401-527-1718 for more information or go to our website “Southshorebasketball. com” for more details
Announcing an amazing opportunity for you to save big and start living your best life today! Settle on select apartment residences by December 15, 2022 and you can
Freedom Fairways, our premier executive golf course and clubhouse, pickle ball courts, tennis courts, and more!
Announcing an amazing opportunity for you to save big and start living best life today! Settle on select apartment Friday, September 15th, 2023 and you
Announcing an amazing opportunity for you to save big and start living your best life today! Settle on select apartment residences by December 15, 2022 and you can
Announcing an amazing opportunity for you to save big and start living your best life today! Settle on select apartment by Friday, September 15th, 2023
Our Lady’s Anniversary
Martin Luther King once said that “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
In this South Shore community in Hillsborough County, Our Lady’s Pantry has been shining in the spotlight of “doing for others” every week for 25 years.
“The history of Our Lady’s Pantry is like the multiplication of the loaves and fishes — 21st Century style,” said Tom Bullaro, who has served as co-director of Our Lady’s Pantry, with his wife Anita, for most of the past 20 years.
“Anita and I are continually humbled by the generosity of the many individuals and the 64 distinct groups, who have cared for our families,” he added. “We obviously were limited in the number of people we could squeeze into our little hall, here at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, for our celebration. But this is really a community-wide celebration. We could never have kept our door open for 25 years without you.
“Piggybacking on this financial support, we have always had the volunteers we needed to do our work each week,” said Bullaro. “We thank Seniors in Service, which has played a huge role in providing many hands to do this work. They came to us about eight years ago and asked if they could help by sending volunteers our way. And they did just that!”
According to Bullaro, Seniors in Service is celebrating an anniversary, too. They were founded in 1984 to connect volunteers, age 55 and over, to meet the needs and challenges of at-risk seniors, veterans, and children in our community.
Chris Noble, Community Engagement Officer at Seniors in Service, said that “Tom is a great leader. From time to time, we have Geared Up Gatherings to celebrate the good work of our Seniors in Service volunteers throughout Tampa Bay. Because Our Lady’s Pantry is our number one and longest partner, we especially wanted to recognize their 25 years of service.
“Having seen many food pantries in my work, it has been my impression that Our Lady’s Food pantry is one of the best run pantries in the Tampa Bay area. The volunteer commitment is very high and very devout. In addition, the structure of managing the volunteers is well thought out and everyone plays a role.
“More importantly,” said Noble, “there is a sense of community and kindness extended to others. They regularly demonstrate their respect and give dignity to those they serve.”
To learn more about Our Lady’s Pantry, please visit us at: “ourladyspantry.com”.
To learn more about Seniors in Service, please go to: “seniorsinservice.org”.
By Ilona Merritt
One more Christmas Concert.
The Kings Point Choral group left their gates behind and performed one of their concerts at the United Methodist Church of SCC. The group presented Christmas music, which also included arrangements that gave old favorite songs a new tempo.
This choral group combines the male and female voices, and they perform well together. It was apparent that this group had fun with the music. They were relaxed and presented some interesting variations of favorite songs. They started their program with “Do you hear what I hear?” which sounded great. It
was easy to hear the fun they had singing “Santa’s Usin’ Zebras Now”. Solos were presented, as well as a few numbers, which were a combination of two Christmas songs. The highlight for this writer was a song that put a special touch into their performance. The group sang Laudamus Te by Vivaldi and included two solo voices. It was an ambitious undertaking, and the solo voices were clear. Their Director, Faye Nepon, and their accompanists, Ines Nepon and Edie Fox, are to be commended for their work with this group of singers. With the applause, it was easy to hear that the audience enjoyed the performance.
2025 Vesta Follies Auditions
YeeHaw…..Yep...the 2025 Vesta Follies theme has been released as “Follies Goes Country USA”. Now is the time to gather your best Country Song, Skit and talents for a fabulous Community event.
The Follies are a non-profit Vesta production. Proceeds from the Follies go back to our local charities and to the benefit of people utilizing the theater and for the enjoyment of those attending the performances.
The Follies participation is a commitment, a chance to perform, entertain and donate to our community! It’s the biggest yearly show in the area and the performers are appreciated and rewarded for their talents by the popularity and the many who attend and
come back each year. All residents of South Hillsborough County, not just Sun City Center residents are invited and highly encouraged to participate in this showcase event. Auditions will be held on Sunday, January 5, from noon to 4:00, in the Banquet Room of the Kings Point Clubhouse. The Sunday audition will consist of listening to some of the songs and doing a little bit of moving around just to show you how much fun you will have.
Audition Schedule
Everyone....soloists, dance clubs, specialty acts which include skits, comedians, spoons, harmonica, banjo....Even a Minnie Pearl routine would be welcome to audition on Sunday, January 5, 2025. Please contact
Security Patrol Toy Drive
By Mike Lee
The SCC Security Patrol collected toys for Christmas again this year to help area residents that are in need. The toys were donated to the Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, and were distributed to less fortunate families. Thanks to the generosity of our residents, more than 250 gifts were received! The Patrol thanks everyone that donated!
The toy drive is another example of how the Patrol supports our community. If you are interested in volunteering for the Patrol, they ask for a commitment of only three hours per month or more. The Patrol takes its mission of supporting the community seriously, and its volunteers provide services that help to ensure that the Sun City Center area is the safest in Hillsborough County.
News of Freedom Plaza
By Peggy Burgess
There is something to be said for keeping a Christmas tradition and at Freedom Plaza those words are: “Let there be light!” They were intoned on December 2, 2024 for the 32nd time; on this occasion by Executive Director Angie Roher. It brought instant illumination to Freedom Plaza’s 2024 Atrium Christmas tree and trees on balconies above it as strains of “O, Christmas Tree” rang out from the large gathering in the Atrium. The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony & Social, was begun in 1992, the year of Freedom Plaza’s opening. As always, it signaled the beginning of another exciting Holiday Season, ending with a festive New Year’s Eve Gala. However, lighting the Atrium Christmas tree was not the only Freedom Plaza tradition being celebrated. Nearby, encompassing a circle of tabletops, was a picturesque, winter landscape. Two model trains laden with gift packages merrily ran their parallel tracks— in opposite directions—through a complete miniature village, past quaint houses and tiny figures. Though not dating back to 1992, the Christmas train tradition has brought delight to Freedom Plaza Holiday Seasons for many years and is always eagerly anticipated. It began in 2003 when Elinor and Bill Crawford moved to Freedom Plaza. A dedicated model train devotee and collector, Bill immediately offered his trains and landscape set-up for display. Other resident/
model train fans quickly became involved, helped with set up each year and a tradition was born.
Though the Crawfords are now gone, residents continue the tradition and the display has grown to an extensive seasonal exhibit that begins in October with a Fall & Halloween theme. Perhaps its most ardent admirer, with the most cherished “train” memories, is Sue Batt, the Crawford’s daughter, now a resident of Freedom Plaza.
The trains and their village will soon be packed away; the treetop angel will, again, rest in her box and areas of Freedom Plaza will look a bit bare minus their holiday decorations, but the Spirit of the Season will linger long in the happy memories of Christmas 2024.
Linda Stone at 319-481-7897, Email “wapsigal@hotmail.com” to schedule your time slot and receive an audition application form.
Chorus Auditions: Those of you who would like to participate in the chorus numbers are asked to come on Sunday, January 5, 2025 at 4:15 p.m. This is the fun part of the Follies. The audience loves the chorus and we all have a ball rehearsing the numbers. The Sunday audition will consist of listening to some of the songs and doing a little bit of moving around just to show you how much fun you will have. Chorus rehearsals begin on Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 5 p.m. We rehearse every Monday and Thursday at 5 p.m. and each Saturday at 1 p.m. from mid-
January until show time. That’s a short two months to put on a fantastic show!
In addition, if you would like to be a part of a major showcase event and your performance talent is limited, Backstage help is always needed and appreciated. Help is always needed with makeup, costumes, microphones, scenery changes, etc. please don’t hesitate to contact Linda Stone at 319-481-7897, Email “wapsigal@hotmail.com” to get involved.
2025 Vesta Follies Show: Location: Kings Point Veterans Dates/Times:
Friday, March 14, at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday March 15, at 1:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Bok Tower Gardens Holiday Visit
By Paula Lickfeldt
festive spirit of the gardens.
Veterans Day
By Kai Rambow
There were quite a few lovely surprises at this year’s ceremony. The biggest was the return of the South Shore Concert Band. They tackled a few melodies not heard before. Considering the complexity, they did a good job.
Also on tap, were the anthems of the various services, including the Space Force—that was a new one.
The keynote speaker this year was Eunice Betts. A fine message remembering those we used to know. A good remembrance for those who might not have known them.
Adogable Pets
Vision For Fashion
By Gezil Andrews
The American Association of University Women, (AAUWS) Sun City Center branch presented its annual fashion show November 9, 2024. Many women came in beautiful and left even more beautiful! And the branch fulfilled its 2024 fundraising goal for scholarships at HCC and STEM, Science, Technology Engineering and Math, with recipients like Girls of the World.
The AAUW (American Association of University Women) aims to advance gender equity for women and girls through research, education, and advocacy. They have been working towards this
mission since 1881 and value intersectionality, inclusivity, and empowerment. Their vision is equity for all.
This is the second time the SCC group partnered with Janet Carr, owner, and fashion consultant of Accessories… and More. The clothes were more inviting than I remember from our first show,
but styles, colors, fabrics, and designs change about as often as new ice cream flavors come out, so it all makes sense!
Eight models, of them AAUW members, and several community friends volunteered to model the clothes. Somehow clothes really embody their owners’ personalities, sizes, shapes, and colors, so the room was electric with energy and style.
During the show, the guests enjoyed a lovely lunch provided by Banquet Masters. This was a perfect time to fellowship and get to know one another. The room was set by the SCC facilities crew under Lew Lewis –providing the ambience women appreciate.
The club hit their highest attendance mark through the campaigning efforts of many members – selling tickets at the
SCC Atrium ticket desk. One of the top performers is Patsie Ginley, Membership chair, with 21 of the 100 sales to her credit!
The key to this kind of fundraising event requires effective networking and “asks.” One of those tasks involved reaching out to Amber Uhler, Mrs. Florida! I met Amber and her husband, Jameson, Channel 10 Brightside Anchor, at a recent Alzheimer event in Sun City Center. One of the greatest parts of my role as a writer for the News of Sun City Center is getting to connect with local movers and shakers. The Uhlers fit that category perfectly!
Amber generously offered to model, effortlessly fitting in as the last model on the last round of clothes, crown, and all! This is really good work done by really passionate community women!
Holiday Music Was Everywhere in SCC
By Ilona Merritt
There were so many wonderful Christmas music programs in SCC it was hard to choose which to attend. The first concert was a Sunday matinee presented by the Men’s Choral group under the direction of Jeff Jordan. The singers presented an exciting program. Mr. Jordan is not only an extraordinary director, but he is also excellent at finding and using unique and upbeat music, which brings out the best from the singers. A new and delightfully different Christmas song was composed, written, and performed by the member Bill Greer, “I’m Gonna Email Santa.” I am sure the song warmed all the hearts of our computer techies. The Men’s voices were strong and the timing was good.
Christmas music, with its nostalgic tone, often evokes memories of simpler times and cherished holiday traditions. While some may say, “It’s the same music every year,” it’s important to remember that these familiar tunes are part of a cherished tradition that brings back fond memories. However, the Men’s and Women’s choral groups added a unique twist to this tradition. They presented some of the familiar tunes in an upbeat, toe-tapping fashion, which was truly unique. It was a special Sunday afternoon, and both groups left a lasting impression with their innovative arrangements and
performances.
Monday brought another matinee, this time featuring the Women’s Choral Group. Anticipation was high for their performance, as I have had the pleasure of hearing them several times before. And once again, they did not disappoint. Their voices were clear and strong, and they sang a mix of excellent upbeat arrangements and familiar tunes. The program was enriched by solos, a duet, a trio, and a four-hand piano performance from group members, as well as the use of special effects, such as a flute, trumpet and drums played by Danny Chavez. The pianist, Teodora Mitze-Circiumaru and the SCC UMC Bellissima Handbell choir added to the outstanding performances. Both choral groups presented a very unique ending. Their last song on their programs was an all-time favorite song, “Let there be peace on Earth,” while not a Christmas song, what could be more fitting for this season? Both choral groups sang the song except for the last two words, “... with me”. Those words were sung by Ryah Parks (6 years) for the Women’s Chorus, and Maximus (7 years) sang with the Men’s Chorus. If you are wondering why children? They are the hope of the future, children are a generation yet to come. They are innocent and represent the change for a better world.
SOLUTIONS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 17