News of Sun City Center January 2023

of Sun City Center

Bird Lovers Flock to Community Hall

By Bob Sanchez

Bird lovers flocked to Community Hall on December 3 for the Sun City Center Audubon Club’s monthly meeting and to witness a presentation about birds of prey.

Nancy Murrah of the Raptor Center of Tampa Bay gave an engaging talk, while she and her colleague Kat Harnest displayed a crested caracara and a screech owl. Both birds had been injured and rescued.

The crested caracara, also known as the Mexican eagle, is the national bird of Mexico. Some people mistakenly think it’s on our southern neighbor’s national flag, but that honor goes to the golden eagle. And according to Murrah, the screech owl doesn’t screech, but the barn owl does. More importantly, just look at the presenters’ thick leather gloves and try to imagine the power of both birds’ sharp talons. Murrah said she’s been hurt several times in her thirty years working with birds of prey.

due to consistently high-quality meetings, communications, field trips, and their monthly newsletter. They meet from October through April in the Florida Room, except for January and February in Community Hall. “Any SCCCA resident may attend as a guest at any time,” he noted. Learn much more about the Club at “www. sccaudubonclub.com”.

Passcode: 633797

*On January 1, the Atrium building, CA offices, pools, Library, Fitness Center, Community Hall, and the Information Center will be closed with no member access allowed. Access will not be denied for members who, at their own risk, wish to use the outdoor facilities and the dedicated club rooms. The restrooms will not be open and no emergency maintenance will be provided.

Agendas for the monthly Board Meetings will be posted on Official Bulletin Board in the Atrium the Friday before and on the CA website www.suncitycenter.org – under “Residents” –

Upcoming Meeting Agendas). They will also be sent via “What’s New in the CA” email.

According to its website, “www. raptorcenteroftampabay.org”, “The Raptor Center of Tampa Bay is a nonprofit organization that is working to build a wildlife rehabilitation facility in East Hillsborough County. We rescue, treat, and rehabilitate about 1,000 birds and animals each year with a goal of release back into the wild.”

“The presentation was top-grade,” said Audubon Club president Dennis Morris, adding that 122 people attended. Program Director Patsie Ginley agreed: “I believe we get the best presenters,” she said, “and the number of attendees is proof of that.”

Morris said that the SCC Audubon Club is growing steadily each month.

Holiday Cart Parade Ushers in the Season

By Kai Rambow

It was fun to see the creativity put into all the carts participating in the parade. Winners of golf cart decorations were the Swim Dancers in the club category, The Griswolds in the individual category,

One dog/reindeer seen waiting for the parade to start.

This Shriners entry had a lot of fun expressed.

The Grinch was part of several golf carts.

A closer view of the creativity put into the Swim Dancers cart.

Kat Harnest displays a screech owl.

Nancy Murrah and crested caracara.

(Photo credit John Wakeman).

In

By Ron Clark, CA President

Happy New Year everyone and here’s wishing you and yours a healthy, prosperous, and fun 2023. I would like to thank my fellow Board members for electing me to be your new President. I am honored and humbled by their decision and look forward to the Board working with the CA membership, Community Manager Lyn Reitz, and the CA staff to continue our progress on making this a great community to live in.

Congratulations are in order for the other new 2023 officers: Jim Collins (Vice President), Roger Zieg (Treasurer), Debbie Caneen (Corporate Secretary) as well as newly elected Carrie Blaylock and reelected Eric Porr and Ron Matelski. I also look forward to continuing working with Directors Kim Roush and Gary Bratt. This is an excellent team willing to serve the Community.

I write this as President-Elect and there has not yet been a meeting of the new 2023 Board. So I won’t presume to say what actions the Board will take in 2023. However, we live in a great 501(C)(3) community that is in a sound financial position and debt free. It is important that we keep it that way. We have the opportunity to continue to make improvements to our community through increased volunteer involvement, improved communications, a more transparent decision-making process, and ensuring that our Club and facility policies maximize the ability for members to enjoy themselves.

The New Year also offers the opportunity for significant asset improvement given our strong Capital Fund position and the progress the Long Range Planning Committee, led by Eric Porr, has made on identifying facility improvements that members need and want. Continued member input through surveys and focus group sessions will be crucial moving forward towards a community approved master plan solution.

As always, there will be challenges for the community to work on. On the horizon is the proposed ClubLink development plan with the potential for increased traffic and loss of open space and viewsheds. We will deal with this issue as a community if and when it occurs.

In summary, Sun City Center is a great senior community with outstanding CA facilities and wonderful members. Let’s work together to resolve issues, to make improvements, and to have fun!

VOLUNTEER PICNIC

given to the CA throughout the year, the Board of Directors cordially invites you to attend a picnic lunch in your honor on: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2023

FLORIDA ROOM 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

LRPC Report

By Kim Roush

OutsideIn Architecture LLC sent us this message explaining how they will benefit us as master planners:

Greetings! OutsideIn is pleased to have been selected to provide master planning services to your community. You may have already seen us at work, verifying research already performed by the Long-range Planning Committee and you, through many polling responses. What is master planning? Community amenities age both in infrastructure and relevance. Often, small improvements or repairs become a patchwork of short term “fixes” that seem out of place and detract from the greater whole. Having a master plan sets a vision where all the parts support a larger, more gratifying and usable experience current and future residents want and need. As architects and community planners, we are excited to be reimagining “Place” here at Sun City Center!

HARDSHIP REQUESTS

Due by February 28, 2023

Hardship financial relief for 2023 dues is available to Sun City Center members. The resident owner of the property applying for financial hardship assistance must have been a member of the community 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 must be submitted by February 28, 2023 to be considered for the current year. Please see Jodie Gross at the CA Office to pick up an application.

BALLOT RECOUNT FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS & 2023 MEMBERSHIP DUES

A requested recount by two candidates was held today by the Elections Committee. Election results remain the same.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS – 3 YEAR TERM

ERIC PORR = 1,402

DEBBIE CANEEN = 1,912

DANIEL (DAN) OSBORNE = 1,221

JEFFREY PARSONS = 967

CARRIE BLAYLOCK = 1,276 TONY RICKERT = 1,066

BOARD OF DIRECTORS – 1 YEAR TERM

ROSE MEYERS = 1,298 RON MATELSKI = 1,395

MEMBERSHIP DUES FOR 2023

– INCREASE FROM $309.00 TO $324.00 PER MEMBER PER YEAR FOR = 1,653 AGAINST = 1,159

Down SCC Memory Lane

By Ilona Merritt, SCC History Society

In 2021, several residents put together a new history book about SCC. As soon as the book was out, most residents thought of Del Webb and his California Crew, who did start SCC. Although this book does start at the very beginning, it continues right through the year 2021. The book is 217 pages, half of which are pictures, many in color. Chapters feature “ Our Clubs and Organizations,” “Come play! — Golf and Outdoor Recreation,” and “Gone But Not Forgotten.” These chapters contain many pictures of people who are still with us, and who knows, your photo might even be in the book. Tuesday afternoon and Thursday morning, members of the History Society are in the Information Center and will be happy to show the book, or you may buy one. For additional information, call the History Society at at 813-633-3038 or scchistorysoc@gmail.com.

Brandon FL 813-924-1128

Duluth MN 218-731-1083

908-227-5037

Manistee MI 248-672-2515

Manchester NH 813-220-7632

Boca Raton FL 813-922-4115

517-977-2893

404-606-0543

727-807-8954

603-724-3566

Pebble Beach Blvd. N. Kathy Berger Woodhaven NY 813-417-1133

Pebble Beach Blvd. N. Phillip Sparacino Brooklyn NY 702-686-2234

804-467-3399

FL 860-301-7756

Preservation Green Ct Roy & Virginia Adams China Grove NC 704-701-4534

Regal Manor Way Joseph Bernhardt/ Buffalo NY 941-243-1811 Michelle Andersen

Seton Hall Drive Ken & Val Sudduth Springfield IL 217-331-4240

Signature Drive John Jaszewski/Maureen Frenette Arcadia WI 507-450-5622

Wildfeather Lane Jerold Collis/Michelle Miller Dearborn Heights MI 313-828-7401

Swim Dancers Celebrate Four Decades

The Sun City Center Swim Dancers announce the Fortieth Anniversary of synchronized swimming in our community. The celebration begins with an invitation to attend a practice preview of three numbers in the Anniversary show on January 9 in the Atrium lap pool. The show will be performed on Saturday, March 4, 2023. In 1983, Anne Becker decided to use her love of swimming to form a synchronized swimming club. This club was called the Aqua Belles, which developed into the current Swim Dancers club. For 40 years women have been doing intricate patterns, log rolls, and planks in the pool of Sun City Center. Come out on January 9 to see these and more performed.

CA December Board Meeting

By Ilona Merritt

The CA received donations from the Stained Glass club, the Front Porch Pickers, and the Computer Club. The money was donated for the Hardship Fund. Outgoing CA President Bob Sullivan has served six years on the CA Board and thanked everyone who worked with him.

Ron Matelski gave an explanation of what happened at the election. Nine members voted by email, which is not allowed. The nine voters had been contacted and most of them sent in a written ballet. A recount was requested by two candidates. The recount was conducted and did not change the outcome of the election. See the results in this section of The News of SCC Community Manager Lyn Reitz reminded everyone that our CA Dues can be paid at the Truist Bank but asked everyone to wait a few days until the checks have been cleared and posted before the residents can receive their stickers.

New Business

Our rental policies have been reviewed and a new price schedule was voted in. The South Campus front shell road is in need of paving and the motion was approved. The various insurance policies are due for payment and the expenditures were approved. A request was made to put new roofing material over the viewing stands at the Tennis courts. This was tabled.

Director Ron Matelski presented a motion for a new policy for the election of CA officers. Here is the text of that motion: Motion for New Policy on CA Officer Elections

“I move that a new policy be enacted for the procedures for the election of

officers annually for the Community Association of Sun City Center, Inc. from the newly elected board each year starting from January 15, 2023 per Article VI and Bylaw II and III section 2. The policy (would) be structured accordingly:

1. The Community Association Community Manager and Executive Secretary shall convene a meeting of the newly elected CA board members for the determination of the CA Officers for the subsequent year.

2. Directors desiring Officer positions must deliver written profiles to the Community Manager of their complete education, background, and work experience qualifying themselves for the specific position(s) under consideration within 5 days of election posted results. Profiles are to be posted for 30 days on the atrium bulletin board for membership examination.

3. Qualifications for CA President and Vice President Officer positions are to include a minimum physical residence in Sun City Center, FL of 48 weeks during the current year along with a similar commitment for each year in office. These two positions must also include actual management and supervisory experience background.

4. Newly elected officers need to commit to having a minimum of 2 officers to be present at the CA Office each week during the subsequent year. This will require diligence in scheduling “off time”.

This motion passed.

During audience comments, Paul Wheat told board members that, no matter how they do it, they should remember that they are working for the community.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Monday Movies Rollins Theater

Second and Fourth Monday, 1 p.m.

Movies are normally shown on the second and fourth Monday of each month in the Rollins Theater at 1 p.m. Movie attendees must present a current SCCCA ID Badge or a SCCCA Guest 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 9 • ELVIS (2 hours, 39 minutes)

From his childhood in Tupelo, MS, to his rise to stardom, starting in Memphis, TN, and his conquering of Las Vegas, NV, Elvis Presley becomes the first rock ‘n roll star and changes the world with his music.

Starring: Austin Butler, Tom Hanks, Helen Thomson, Richard Roxburgh

Rating: PG-13 strong language, smoking, substance abuse, suggestive material

January 23 •Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris

(1 hour, 56 minutes)

A widowed cleaning lady in 1950s London falls madly in love with a couture Dior dress and decides that she must have one of her own. After working, starving, and gambling to raise the funds to pursue her dream, Mrs. Harris embarks on an adventure to Paris which not only changes her own outlook but the very future of the House of Dior.

Starring: Lesley Manville, Isabelle Huppert, Jason Isaacs, Lambert Wilson

Rating: PG suggestive material, smoking, language

Erickson, Art Forsythe, James Haas, John Hiller, Margaret Jozefak, Jan & Betty Karpinski, Cheryl Klier

Kennedy, William & Susan Kolling, Lynda

Ligotti, James & Maureen Littrell, Paul & Kristine

Lombardi, Paul & Margaret McGuire, George & Carol Metz, Theodore & Mary Miller, Michael & Janet Morgan, Doris Muenken, Jens Muise, Susan

Nagle, Douglas & Nancy Narten, Susan Pieroth, Susan

Ransbury, David & Karen Robinson, Mary Shanley, Paul & Maribeth Tess Silverman

Siola, Patricia Smith, Patricia Sobel, Peter & Bonnie

Spadaccini, Frank & Susanne Spencer, Nancy Sulzberger, Rolf and Patricia Watley, Gaynell

Sun City Center Library

Hearing Loss Assoc. of America $2,500 Hearing Loop at Community Hall We thank the Lawn Bowling Club who directly paid $11,796 as their 1/2 share of the maintenance of the lawn bowling courts We also thank the RV Club and Tillers & Toilers for maintaining their own areas.

Webb, Raymond J. Weeks, Jo Ann Weisman, Rose Alice Weisner

Williams, Connie Wilson, Jane Wyrick, Donald

Estate of Karen Holse

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.

Art Club in SCC Events

Jan. 4 • Gallery Opening from 1-3 p.m. in the Art Room Gallery featuring Marsha Lucidi.

Jan. 16 • Demo from 1-3 p.m. in the Rollins Theater.

learn about our new classes.

Jan. 27 & 28 • Annual Art Show 10 – 4 p.m. in the Florida Room, Open to the Public. Membership required to show your art work in the Juried Art Show. More info: www.artclubinscc.org.

Sew’n Sews Offer Quilting and Sewing Classes

The Sew’n Sews Club, located at the back of the Arts & Craft Building on Cherry Hills Drive, is offering both quilting and sewing classes in January. The club room is reserved for quilting classes on Thursday mornings and for sewing classes on Friday mornings. Class participants can use their own sewing machine but if planning to use the club’s sewing machines, they must first receive instructions on the use of the club’s machines.

Intermediate Fashion Sewing Beginning Quilting Fridays, 10 to 1 p.m. starting January 6 January 19, from 9 to noon Pat Blackwell, instructor Mary Lou Bogdan, instructor All classes are open to club members. Both the annual membership dues of $10 and the $10 class fee must be paid before the class begins. Membership is open to SCC residents in good standing as well as to Kings Point residents who are gold card holders. More info, email: “scc.sew.n.sews@gmail.com” or call 813-505-9503.

Metaphysical Society Presentations

Wednesdays, 10 to noon • Atrium Building, Heritage Room

Open to Society members and SCCCA residents joining the Club. SCCCA ID is required. Free admission, love offering requested. For info call Patti at (813) 2634232. For Membership, info call Pennie at (404)242-7586.

Latin Fitness Holiday Fun

The Sun City Center Dance Club got together to celebrate the holidays. There was a raffle drawing for prizes and members brought wrapped gifts to exchange. Suzy White provided the musical entertainment. In the new year, classes meet for one hour every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 1 p.m. in the Dance Studio inside the Atrium. For more information, contact Deb Zieg, 434-409-9470.

Multicultural Heritage Gala

The Multicultural Heritage Club of Sun City Center knows how to party. A sold out gala was held on December 10 in the Florida Room which included a catered dinner by Banquet Masters and music by DJ Willie.

Also, as part of the community outreach done by the MCH, we know of one young man and his 6-year-old sister who need new bikes. If anyone would like to contribute to this effort, please get in touch with our club president, Vicente Lopez, at “mhcpresident@gmail.com”. Our club meetings are on the second Friday of each month from noon to 2 p.m. in the Caper Room of the Atrium. We celebrate diversity of every kind.

Potters Wheel Elects New Board Members

The Potters Wheel Club elected new officers during an annual business meeting held November 10 in the Caper Room. The new officers are President Sue Bahl, Vice President Mary Buccilli, Treasurer Debbie Whittle, Secretary Debe Allen, and Past President Mary Schroeder.

The Potters Wheel Club offers classes and space for both wheel-thrown and hand-built pottery. Membership is open to CA members only. Stop by the Studio on Cherry Hills Drive, directly south of the outdoor pool, to join and see what the Club has to offer.

SCC Audubon Wildlife Art Festival

January

7, doors will open at 9:15 a.m.

SCC Community Hall

Enjoy a presentation by naturalist and photographer John Lampkin, and a Bird & Nature Art Festival. John’s talk, “Defend Yourself! How Bugs and Bloomers Survive,” will be a discussion of the astonishing and sometimes bizarre strategies used by insects and plants to avoid being eaten. The art festival will include original works from a private collection, as well as favorite photos, paintings and other art provided by club members.

This is the second open fundraiser hosted by SCC Audubon Club, and the public is invited. The club is suggesting a $3 donation from non-residents of Sun City Center. Funding from these donations will be used to help maintain the Nature Trails. Info: Dennis at 570-814-2803.

January 4 • Cahni Konig, Shamanic Healing Cahni is a Shamanic Paranormal Investigator with the Warren Legacy Foundation for Paranormal Research.

January 11 • Kelly Kowall, My Warrior Place

After U.S. Army SPC Corey Kowall was killed on September 20, 2009, his mother, Kelly, founded My Warrior’s Place, a place where veterans, first responders, and gold star families can find refuge and healing.

January 18 • Pava Radakovich, Archetypes of the Tarot Pava has been studying Tarot seriously for over 12 years. She will be teaching us about the Jungian archetypes and how they are featured and interpreted into tarot card readings.

January 25 • Ed Foote, Achieving Peace in Your Life Ed Foote is a member of Edgar Cayce’s Association for Research and Enlightenment (A.R.E.) and has been a member of the Pittsburgh Team that organizes Edgar Cayce events for over 35 years.

Computer Club Monthly Meeting

Wednesday, January 11, at 7 p.m. Florida Room

Judy Taylour from APCUG will present “What is a Utility.” Judy will share some of her favorite utility apps with the audience. So, if you would like, bring the name of your favorite utility app to the presentation to share.

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: Pauline Baker, Education Director at “paulinebaker864@gmail.com”. Details: “scccomputerclub.org”.

Intro to Computers (four sessions) • Monday, January 2, 9, 23, 30, from 10 to noon Introduction to Excel • Saturday, January 7, from 9 to noon iPad/iPhone for Seniors • Thursday, January 12, from 9 to noon Android Smartphones & Tablets • Wednesday, January 4 and Friday, January 6, from 9 to noon

Bunka Club News

Stop by and see us and what we do. Stitching is done with needles the size of a pencil. Threads are 1-2-3-4 ply threads of various colors. The image on the canvas of your choice is your guide. We buy kits that include material, threads and a guide of instruction. It’s very relaxing and satisfying. The club is in the Arts and Craft Building on Cherry Hills Drive next to stained glass. We stitch from 9 to noon Monday to Thursday. CA badge is required. No reservation.

Just stop in and walk around the room to see how it’s all done.

This is the winner of our raffle from the Holiday Walk in December. Congratulations! Our club is stitching with needles called Bunka, Japanese Embroidery made with threads not paints. We buy kits that include a canvas, threads, directions and hints. It can be a picture of an animal, flowers, ships, whatever you want to work on. We meet in the Arts and

9 to noon.

Meet our Instructors and

John Lampkin

Crafts building Monday thru Thursday,

Front: Mary Buccilli, Debe Allen. Back: Sue Bahl, Debbie Whittle, Mary Schroeder.

of Sun City Center & South County

Christmas In Wimauma

By Paula Lickfeldt

Event planners promised “all the fixins’ and trimmings, arts, crafts, homemade goods, and so much more…” and they delivered. Vendors were inside and outside the building offering every holiday item imaginable. This was a free event for the entire family. Angelite Bragg from Kittie Corral, was the event planner. She said that she hoped this would be the first of many. They will start planning next year’s event in January and hope to have it in November with arts and crafts for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year.

SCC Shrine Club Children’s Christmas Party

Members of the Sun City Center Shrine Club held their Annual Children’s Christmas Party for the Wimauma School District’s first grade classes at Reddick and Wimauma Elementary schools. Children came to school bursting with excitement

because they were going to see Santa. Each child had the opportunity to sit with Santa and tell him what they would like for Christmas. When finished, Santa provided each child with a gift bag, while his elves distributed snacks and a drink. This year, there were over 200 children between the two schools. Each teacher took pictures of the individual children with Santa and were going to provide their parents with the picture.

Club members Denny and Rhonda Hardy planned, prepared for, and coordinated this year’s party. The SCCSC Shrine continued on page 2.

Virgin Atlantic Starts Service to London Heathrow

By Kai Rambow

Travel is back! Virgin Atlantic just started service between Tampa and London Heathrow. It’s a first. Yes, there is British Airways, but their flight is to London Gatwick. As busy as Heathrow is, most people prefer to fly in and out of there if they are flying to England.

A lovely surprise was the presence of Sir Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Atlantic, a serial entrepreneur, and a multibillionaire. His considerable, engaging communication skills were on full display. When asked why Rolls-Royce engines on the aircraft, Branson replied, “We wanted to help a little British company.” It was a funny response. I believe there is only one engine choice for this newest version of aircraft.

The aircraft that flew in was only 30 days old. Virgin Atlantic has ordered several A330-900s.

These will be used on the Tampa to London route. New route; new aircraft. These new planes use significantly less fuel.

Zoe with Santa.

Caleb and Asher with Santa.

Angelite Bragg

New international airline; new international route; new aircraft parked at Tampa’s airport.

Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Atlantic, enthusiastically helping launch the service between Tampa and London.

The Editor’s Corner

Looking Back, Thanking Ahead

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

I’ve always been fascinated by the lore surrounding the Roman god Janus, for whom our month, January, is named. Janus, is a two-faced deity, not because he’s not to be trusted, but because Janus is always looking backward and forward at once, a reminder that, while we are shaped by our pasts, we still create our futures.

The ancient tradition that named the first month on our calendar is embedded in our culture in many different ways. January is a time of reflection and resolutions, of considering what has come and anticipating what will be.

For me, those ruminations begin with thanksgiving. I know that November is traditionally the time when we collectively count our blessings, and, as my boys would say, “I’m here for that.”

January, though, is my favorite time of year for taking time out to be grateful. There’s no better way to begin anything than by saying “thank you.”

I’m grateful to be a part of such an incredible team here at The News. Last November marked 13 years since the publisher invited me to come aboard, and I continue to appreciate this very unique opportunity. I love working with talented pros like John and Nancy. They are the engine that keeps The News humming. From the ads, production, and distribution that make this publication possible to the bright, engaging layout that makes our stories easy and entertaining to read, I could not ask for better collaborators.

And, speaking of Making It Happen, I cannot say enough about the work put in by our amazing team of volunteer reporters who invest their time, talent, imagination, and integrity in making sure you have so many stories worth reading each and every month. Ilona, Kai, Paula, Andrea, Bob, and our newest reporter, Mike, do a phenomenal job. I know I can trust them to hit their deadlines,

Shrine continued from page 1.

especially wants to thank the Kings Point Quilters as they provided the handmade pillowcases that were used as gift bags! Several club members assembled the gift bags for the children. The toys and snacks were provided by funds raised through our “Lost in the 50’s” dance, our annual fundraiser.

We, the members, would like to publicly thank Joe and Eileen Reig for their very generous donation to the club

and to send me their best work, no matter what. Over the years they have navigated family, health, and work challenges, difficult interviews, and tough assignments, and they have never, ever missed a deadline.

On the rare occasion when that’s been in doubt, my phone rings a few days beforehand, letting me know they “might” be a little late. That kind of integrity, professionalism, and personal responsibility is priceless.

The News is also fortunate to have an energetic and creative group of regular contributors who always drop something fun and interesting in my inbox. Several of those folks are listed on our staff page too. They have earned that recognition through consistent, accurate, and timely contributions to this community news and events publication. And I also want to tip my hat to the dozens of club leaders and publicity chairs who make sure to get their stories and announcements in by the 15th every month. They read and follow the submission guidelines and send us quality content we are happy to share with all of you.

Speaking of club leaders, I want to take a moment to say “thanks” to the countless volunteers who make this community work. From the first responders and security patrollers, to the club, group, and civic organization volunteers who, together, create a truly unique community. All of you are the glue that brings us together and the fuel that keeps the community going.

I also want to take a moment to thank my friends, both in this community and outside it. We all Go Through Stuff, and there’s no doubt that the tough times that tell us who our friends are. The past few years have presented numerous opportunities for me to find that out, and I’m grateful for all of you. If you’re reading this, and you’re feeling alone, reach out. To me, to this publication, or to one of the numerous local clubs and groups who would love to hear from you. We may come into life alone, and we certainly go out alone, but there’s no need for anyone to go through it alone.

Please reach out.

I’m grateful every day for my family. Recently, many of us gathered to say goodbye to my brother, Patrick. While our hearts are broken, having that time to commiserate, share stories, and sing together was a balm better than any other.

The opportunity to be a husband, father, son, and

brother is something I will never take for granted. Right now, as you’re reading this, we’re all welcoming the New Year. But, as I’m writing this, Christmas is still a few days away, and I can hear my boys downstairs giggling at some silly holiday movie, Elf or the Grinch or some such. Stepping away from my work for a moment, I see their bright faces lit by Christmas lights, hands clutching warm mugs of cocoa with candy canes poking

from the top, and my heart is full. I think about my “big kid” up in the panhandle, preparing to welcome the first of our next generation into the world, and my full heart overflows.

As I look back on 2022 and consider 2023, there are so many reasons to be thankful. I hope that you, too, invest a moment or two being grateful today. Sometimes, beginning with “thank you” makes a big difference.

You’re Invited: To Join The News Team!

Do you love the SCC or KP lifestyle? Are you proud of your community, your neighborhood, and your local organization? Are you interested in being one of the first to know about local clubs and events? To have the inside scoop about what’s happening in the community? You might love being on The News team! Whether your interests lie in community news, creative arts, performing arts, sports, or other hobbies – we are looking for folks to help us tell those stories. Why not have some fun and make an impact on your community with the best NEWS team around. If you’re interested, email our editor, Adam Porter, at “editor@ soco.news”. Put “Join the News” in the subject line.

of SCC & South County

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Ilona Merritt Reporter imerritt@soco.news

John Wolf Advertising 813.938.8721 newsofsccads@gmail.com

Kai Rambow Reporter krambow@soco.news

which allowed us to purchase everything without using club funds. Thank you, Joe and Eileen, from the bottom of our hearts!

This is truly the most gratifying, heartwarming, and rewarding event that the Shrine Club hosts all year. If you would like to help our Shrine Club with our Children’s Christmas Party or just learn more about us, please visit on our website: www. sccshrineclub.com.

Mike Lee Reporter mlee@soco.news

L.T. Peterson Reporter apeterson@soco.news

Bob Sanchez Reporter bsanchez@soco.news

Paula Lickfeldt Reporter plickfeldt@soco.news

Andrea

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

Nancy Jean Design and Layout art@soco.news

Fashion Show Luncheon

Valentine’s Day, February 14

Sponsored by the Art Club in Sun City Center SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. Janet Carr, of Accessories and More, will show design apparel, lots of jewelry as well as a selection of beautiful handbags. Tickets will be on sale from 10 to noon in the Atrium ticket kiosk on January 9, 11, 13, 23, 25, 27, 30. Tickets are $25 each, check or cash, and must be purchased in advance as they will not be available at the door.

Kings Point Italian Club

Black Tie & White Diamonds Gala

Tuesday January 10, doors open at 4:30 p.m.

KP Veterans Theater

Food provided by Banquet Masters. Coffee, tea, soda, and water provided. BYOB. Mike Russo will perform for your dancing pleasure. Cost for members is $25. Members only. Semi Formal, dressy attire. Tickets on sale January 3 and 4, from 9 to noon in the KP North Clubhouse lobby. Tickets only available on those dates. Info: Frank Oleskewicz 813-300-4010, or visit “www.kpitalianclub.com”.

SCC Woman’s Club Elves

During the months of November and December, eight SCC Woman’s Club members visited five different assisted living facilities and memory care units in SCC and wrote messages in holiday cards. A total of 275 cards were handwritten. The facilities were Freedom Plaza AL and Memory Care, Sun Towers, Inspired Living, Aston Gardens and Cypress Creek. The ladies wanted to bring joy and a smile to residents this holiday season. Volunteers were: Shawna, Marge, Joanne, Norma, Regina, Rosita, Valesca, and Susan

Who Is Watching the Land?

Monday, January 16, doors open at 1 p.m. St. Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 West Del Webb Blvd, Sun City Center Fellowship Room: Doors open 1 PM for sign-ups, meeting and program at 1:45 PM

Beth Lewis, the Resilient Lands and Waters Strategy Director of Florida’s Nature Conservancy, will discuss essential plans to protect the State’s environment. Providing an overview of the connected lands and associated water systems, Lewis will explain the Strategic Plan to preserve land biodiversity and insure a viable wildlife corridor. Eagle Audubon Meetings are free and the public is invited. More Info: “eagleaudubonflorida.org”.

Learn About Human

Trafficking

with AAUW

Saturday, January 14, doors open at 9:30 a.m.

Atrium, Florida Room

We are so very lucky to have an amazing non-profit based here in SouthShore called Campaign Against Human Trafficking (CAHT) that has committees involved in every aspect from prevention. Come to the AAUW monthly January meeting to hear LouAnne Rossdeutscher, current CAHT President, explain all the services the agency performs. A small donation towards food expenses will be collected at the door. Call Margie at 813-633-8253 for a reservation if you plan to attend. Any questions regarding AAUW and the local SouthShore Sun City Center Branch call President Susan Nasrani at 570-401-5346.

Galaxy Bridge Luncheon

January 5, at 11 a.m.

United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave. Members will meet at 11, and lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The $10.00 membership dues for the year will be collected at the January meeting. The lunch price is $18. RSVP to Kathie at 410-8791112 or Annetta Pucci at 813-633-3277. This group is open to all Sun City Center women, Freedom Plaza, and Kings Point gold card members who are interested in bridge.

GFWC Woman’s Club Meeting

Thursday, January 19, doors open at 11 a.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. Meet and greet, followed by a buffet lunch and special program with speaker Sue Holdter from the Center for Life Learning. Optional attire is blue to support the Campaign Against Human Trafficking Month. This meeting also features the Member’s Annual Arts and Crafts Competition. RSVP required by January 16. Email “suncitywomansclub@gmail.com”. The catered buffet is $17, paid at check-in. More info online at “sccwomansclub.org”. Daisy Vega membership chair, can be reached at sccwcmembership@gmail. com or by phone 813-546-2329.

•

Art Club in Sun City Center Gallery Show

Opening Wednesday, January 4

Marsha Lucidi’s appreciation for art began in high school and continued into college. After graduation she used her art education in various careers: art teacher, interior designer, buyer for Dillard’s and Executive Director of the Carlisle, PA Downtown Association. When she retired from a full-time career, she came back to the twodimensional world of art as a studio artist creating oil paintings. She loves a free, loose style with lots of color and a design that shows emotion and creates a feeling of excitement. Her art has been displayed in galleries and many private collections throughout the United States. She has lived in Sun City Center since 2005 with her husband Richard and their two dogs, Bella and Peanut.

International Forum: Doing Business in China

January 13, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Atrium, Florida Room

All residents of SCC and residents of Kings Point with a Gold Pass are welcome. Robert Davidson, with 40 years’ experience in International Supply Chain Management at various large corporations, will discuss the cultural aspects related to business negotiations and transactions in China. The topics will include United States Custom duty and regulations related to importing products from China and how U.S. Customs keeps the U.S. safe from WMS (Weapons of Mass Destruction). Mr. Davidson will also discuss what it is like to live in a small city in China.

Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon

Please join us on January 11 for a fun-filled luncheon event. Our feature speaker is Angela Grinias, Travel Agent, Lakewood Ranch. Angela will bring travel safety, tips, cruises, tour information, and more! Our Guest Speaker will be Judy Clark from Winter Garden, Fl. Judy’s title for her talk is “A Directionally Challenged Thrill Seeker No Longer Loses Her Way”. RSVP required. Call Amy at 317-414-9062 or email “sscwcflorida@gmail.com” to make your reservation. Send your check for $20 to Nancy Decker, 5203 Admiral Point Dr., Apollo Beach, FL 33572.

CAHT Recognizes January As Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Meeting: January 16, 2023, 6 p.m.

Florida Room, CA Central Campus

The January Meeting of the Campaign Against Human Trafficking – South Shore will present a movie about sex trafficking in America. After the movie, a successful survivor of sex trafficking will be telling her story of hope. The Campaign Against Human Trafficking is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Your support will help fund our safe sheltering program, victim services, educational awareness and prevention activities to schools and the community. For more information about CAHT and human trafficking, call 847-524-9215 or go to CAHT’s web page: www.sccblueheart.org.

South Bay Genealogical Society Meeting

Tuesday, January 17, at 10:30 a.m.

United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave.

Round Table Discussion, followed by a luncheon at noon, and then the presentation by our Guest Speaker at 1 p.m. Our speaker will be Carol Rooksby Weidlich who will be presenting “Who is Emma?" The cost is $18 for the meal and the presentation. For reservations and meal choice, call Dianna at 864-607-1330. Make your checks payable to SBGS, and mail it to South Bay Genealogical Society, PO Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571. Your check must be received by January 5.

DAR Meeting January 18

Atrium,

Florida Room

The Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will hold the first meeting of the new year on January 18. Light refreshments and conversation at 12:30 pm, followed with a 1 p.m. regular meeting. Our speaker will be Deputy Jeff Merry. The topic of the program will be “Let’s Be Safe”. We will also be conducting a donation drive for the Boys and Girls Club of Wimauma. We will be collecting clothing and shoes for children ages five to ten. Info: Kay Adkins, Regent, at mujerdragona@yahoo.com.

Kindred Spirits January Meeting

January 4

Kings Point Banquet Room, 1900 Club House Drive

Hey ladies! As life changes, we often find ourselves missing a companion to be active with. Are you tired of going to restaurants, movies, and events alone or maybe not going at all? We have the solution. It’s the Kindred Spirits Club! Come meet other women to enjoy life with and build friendships. Our guest speaker is Sherry Leybovich from Cruise Planners who will talk about worldwide travel opportunities with her ladies group, Getaway Adventure Ladies Society (GALS). If you are from outside of Kings Point, let the guard at the gate know you are coming for Kindred Spirits. Questions call Michelle Mason at 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Thanksgiving Team of Volunteers

Kings Point Shell Art Club Donates $3,010 to Samaritan Services

The Kings Point Shell Art Holiday Tour of Homes has six enchantingly decorated homes to visit for a donation. The club also has a gift shop where members display their shell art. Samaritan Services, a 501(c) (3) charity, provides many support services needed by residents of Greater Sun City Center. For Samaritan Services information call

We want to thank Team 2 for their service on Thanksgiving Day. Our volunteers serve the community every day of the week, 24 hours a day, all year, including holidays. Volunteers, L to R, are: Don Mayer, Teresa Snipe, Vicki Kosin, Deb Spitler, Ed Whitehead, Phil Prather, Walt Prouty, Janice Chase and Cheryl Reed. Serving the community, but not in the photograph were: Betty Richner, Jim Rottman, Paul Wegman, Jim Malinowski, Vallery McKeehan, Diane Hathaway, Betsy Schneider, Jackie Potts, Ginny Rottman, Dar Brown, Dolores Whiteside, Sara Washburn, Barb Judy, Nan McNamara, John Kosin, Peter Gallagher and Alice Walsh.

South Lake Members Enjoy Meals & Music

The homeowners at South Lake have a monthly social in the Florida Room. For December, President Jerry Isch welcomed local musician Jeff Jordan to host our entertainment. There were song sheets for caroling and bells for ringing “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree.” Meals and Music made for a wonderful holiday evening.

Cruiser of the Month

1966 Ford Fairlane GT is Holiday Show Top Pick

An immaculately restored 1966 Ford Fairlane GT owned and driven by Palmetto resident Willow was selected as December cruiser of the month at the Roamin’ Oldies Christmas benefit show in Apollo Beach. The glistening black hardtop attracts a steady stream of admirers, many of whom had, or wish they had, one like it decades ago. “The car just brings back memories,” Willow says. “People see it and remember.”

She and husband Allen Pearson bought the Fairlane five years ago from a friend who was just completing a full restoration. “He knew we were Ford people and would take good care of it.” It’s powered by a 390 cubic-inch Ford V8 engine, with a 4-speed manual transmission. They enjoy driving and showing it, and have put 8,500 miles on it since restoration.

The Roamin’ Oldies host a cruise-in from 1 to 4 p.m. the first Sunday of every month, with a rain date the following Sunday, at the Mira Bay Village Shopping Center on US-41 in Apollo Beach. For information, call Frank at 856-373-8497.

Willow’s 1966 Ford Fairlane GT is the Roamin’ Oldies cruiser of the month.

Feline Folks Volunteers Needed

Feline Folks will continue feeding, neutering, vaccinating, and rehoming our community free roaming cats during these challenging times. Feline Folks is a non-profit operating on donations and through the kindness of volunteers. lf you are interested in volunteering there currently is a need for help trapping, transporting cats to veterinary appointments and providing foster homes. There are many kitties waiting for their forever home. Learn more at the Kings Point Open House on January 18 in Veterans Theater at their monthly Meow Mixer on January 5 at 4 p.m. in the Kings Point 2020 Building Culinary Room. Everyone is welcome. More info: “www.felinefolks.us”.

Cloggers to Perform at Benefit

The Cloggersizers will be performing at the C.A.R.E Benefit Show at the Kings Point Theater on January 27. Tickets are on sale for $10. The clogging group will also perform in the Kings Point Follies in March.

Southshore Democratic Club

1st Thursday of the month at 1 p.m.

St. Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd.

The South Shore Democratic Club invites you to join. We welcome all Democrats, Republicans, Independents, Progressives, and like minded people. Hear representatives from local, regional, state, and national government, and organizations speak on issues that affect our lives in Florida. Info: “SSDmembership@gmail.com”.

Kings Point Pickleball Giving Back

Giving back to our communities is what Kings Point Pickleball has strived to do this year. In July when children were getting ready to go back to school, the club filled a van with school supplies. In September shelves were empty at a local food bank, members stepped up with a van full of groceries. Now for the holidays, not the first time this has been done, we had an “Angel Tree” and every child whose name was attached to the tree will get their wished-for items.

Captain Richard Petrucci, USN, Ret. spoke to the Sun City Center Men’s Club at the November membership luncheon meeting. Capt. Petrucci was an US Navy aviator and was directly involved in the October 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis as a patrol plane pilot along the southern coasts of Florida and all coasts of the island of Cuba. Using slides to show the timeline of events leading to the beginning of the crisis, during the period of missile buildup, and the blockade that led to the removal and withdrawal of Russian missiles from the island, Capt. Petrucci brought out little known facts concerning this period of time in USA history. The SCC Men’s Club is open to residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point. For more information about the SCC Men’s Club and the club’s involvement in community activities call Jon Lehr, VP of Membership at 813 260-3058

Community continued on page 8.

L to R: Ed Barnes, VP Programs SCC Men’s Club, Captain Richard Petrucci, USN, Ret., Bob Sullivan, Pres. Elect, SCC Men’s Club.

SCC Men’s Club Learns About Cuban Missile Crisis

Kevin and Kate Collins, members in charge of distribution, Suzan Hill, Karin Coons, Co-Presidents.

Free Community Memory Screenings

USF’s Preventing Alzheimer’s with Cognitive Training (PACT) lab will offer free memory screenings and information about memory loss 9:30 am to 12:30 pm on Wednesday, January 18, at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 701 Valley Forge Blvd. in Sun City Center.

Trained USF psychology students will administer memory screenings, which consist of a series of questions and tasks. Screenings last approximately 30 minutes. Screening results are not a diagnosis, and individuals with below normal scores or who have concerns are encouraged to pursue a full medical examination. Registration is required. To register, call the church office at 813-634-1292 and leave your name and phone number.

Heartland Social Club

Annual Pizza Party

Wednesday, January 25, doors open at 5 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater, 1900 Clubhouse Dr. Attendees will be offered pizza, a salad and dessert, plus games and prizes! After the meal we will be entertained by game night! The cost of this event is $15 for members and $19 for non-members (paid by 1/4). The welcome mat is out for all Sun City residents and snowbirds, especially those with ties to Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Nebraska. To RSVP, please send payment (by check only, addressed to Heartland Club) by January 14, 2023) to: Cathy Maguire (Treasurer), 2238 Vista Greens Dr., Sun City Center, FL. 33573. Info: 813.938.5433 or email “jbwohlrab@ gmail.com”.

German American Club Fasching Celebration

Thursday, February 2, doors open at 4:45 p.m.

SCC Community Hall

The German American Club of Sun City Center invites residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point to come and enjoy a traditional Fasching celebration. Fasching is the equivalent of Carnival, which occurs prior to Lent , such as Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Wherever you may be it amounts to an evening of good food, good music and dancing, dressing in costumes and just plain having fun. Enjoy a delicious buffet served at 5:45, as well as music by the Manny Daum Trio. For those who love to don their favorite costumes, here’s an opportunity to show off your originality and maybe even win some money. Entrants will be divided into two classes: Individual and Groups (two or more people). The German American Club will award $400 to those with the best costumes. COST: $30 for members, $35 for nonmembers. RSVP. No tickets at the door. Last day to RSVP will be January 27. BYOB. Please drop off or mail your check, payable to German American Club of SCC, to: Fred Rathke, 1058 Emerald Dunes Dr., SCC, 813- 938-4845; Lenny Crooks, 2425 Emerald Lake, #209, SCC, 813 493-1644; or Wolfgang Kesselring, 2042 Grantham Greens, KP, 860-307-3342.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration

Ifi Heritage Center in Wimauma is having a MLK Birthday Celebration at Hillsborough Community College in Ruskin. It will be on Jan. 13, 2023 from 10:30 am - 1:30 pm. The speakers are Willie Pearl King and Joan Mulholland (the last of the Mississippi Freedom Riders). The event is free and open to the public.

Is My Water Safe? Do I Need Bottled Water?

Thursday, January 12

Florida Room, Central Campus

The How-to-fix-it club will give a presentation on water quality. What equipment to buy and use, and what to do in an emergency. Also bottled water options will be discussed along with water conservation. More info: email Michael, “mlpphillips@tutanota. com”.

The SCC Rotary Club hosted its annual Thanksgiving luncheon with the Lions and Kiwanis Clubs of Sun City Center. Each of the three clubs gave a presentation on their service organization, purpose, and club projects. All three clubs clearly demonstrate a strong service ethic with many community projects. Pictured are the speakers from each club (l-r), Bill Cox-Rotary, Bob Jenkins-Lions, and Kim Przekop-Kiwanis. The SCC Rotary Club meets each Tuesday for lunch at Freedom Fairways. The Kiwanis meet 1st/3rd Wednesday for lunch at the Ruskin Elks Club. The Lions gather at Sun Towers Retirement Community, located at 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, on the 1st/3rd Tuesdays at noon.

Forge Blvd. There will be many donated items and bargains galore. The picture shows Tina Schwartz, chair of the sale, with items that have already been donated

PERFORMINGARTS

International Touring Organist Returns to SCC

Sunday, January 15, at 3 p.m.

United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave.

Dr. Dale Voelker is a college music professor/ organist who has toured many European countries as an international concert organist, as well as Jamaica, Brazil, and China. No tickets are needed, and a donation of just $10 is requested at the door on the day of the concert. More info: www.sccumc.com.

Murder At Flontrachet Vineyard

New Pelican Player Murder Mystery is an AAUW Fundraiser

February 5, at 2 p.m. • SCC Community Hall

BYOB and enjoy a brand new play performed by the Pelican Players, written and directed by James Williams. Doors will open at 1 p.m. Event tickets are $20, purchase at the Atrium ticket kiosk (January 18, 20, 25 and 27) or by calling Patsie Ginley at 954-2585714.

All proceeds from this event will go toward the American Association of University Women (AAUW), which sponsors scholarships for mature women to attend HCC Ruskin and middle school girls attending STEM summer camps. Info: Susan Nasrani at 570-401-5346.

Tom Becker’s “Back Home Again”

John Denver Tribute

Friday, January 20, at 7 p.m.

United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave. Tom Becker is a former member of the legendary folk group, The New Christy Minstrels. He has appeared with Grammy winners, American Idol finalists, and many music legends such as Ray Charles, Greg Allman and Jerry Lee Lewis to mention three very diverse artists. Becker’s John Denver tribute is a heartfelt tribute to a legend who has always inspired him. Tickets are available in advance for $15 in the church bookstore Sundays through Thursdays, 9 to 12:30 p.m. or the church office Mondays through Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. or online at “www.sccumc. com".

DANCING

Senior Social Dances

$6, RSVP Required

Tuesdays, January 3 and January 17, doors open at 5:30 p.m. St. John Divine, 1015 Del Webb Blvd. E.

These dances are always open to Sun City Center and Kings Point residents and their guests limited to a maximum of 72 guests. anyway. No walk-ins. Our entertainer is Thor Stevens and his sax. Dressy casual attire. Singles tables available. BYOB, ice, setups, and snacks. To RSVP, call or text Judy Furman, 425-214-3996 or email “judyannfurman@gmail.com”.

Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club

Saturday, January 7

SCC Community Hall

A dance lesson will be taught by Wayne and Cindy Rohr at 6:15 p.m. Then, dance to your favorites; country two step, a line dance or two, bachata, west coast swing, night club two step, swing, cha-cha, waltz. with Mike and Peg Johnston as your DJs. Dress is casual attire, no shorts! BYOB and snacks. Water and ice will be served. Members are free, guests are $6, but you MUST be a SCC Card Holder. Also, Kings Point residents with a 2023 Gold Card or the new $50 Dance Card are welcome. No guest passes for sale at the dance. Info, call Tom Hart, 810-923-8446.

Dancing continued on page 10.

Art

Happy New Year Sun City Center! As we enter into a new year, we are always reminded of how great life really is and how important it is to relish in great times with friends and family. January will be full of just that from the SCCCA entertainment department. Here are a few shows for you to mark your calendars for. If you have not done so yet, make sure to grab your tickets for all of the Friday dances and Sunday shows. On Friday, January 13, at 7 p.m. we are welcoming Celebrate. The tickets are $19 for CA and KP members. Everyone’s favorite event is taking place in January as well. On Wednesday, January 18, at 2 p.m. we will have the William Clare Entertainment Showcase of Talent. The tickets are $11 for general admission. Capping out the month we will have our Sunday show with Absolute Queen on January 22 at 2:30 p.m. Absolute Queen is a fantastic re-recreation of a Queen concert. The tickets for this show are $20.

Don’t miss these shows! Stop by the Atrium ticket kiosk and get your tickets, as they will go fast. And mark your calendar for our first spring comedy show, featuring Mike Marino. He was here last year, and he kept everyone laughing all night. This show will sell out. Tickets go on sale Wednesday, January 4 and are $20 for CA and KP members. The comedy show will be BYOB and hosted in Community Hall at 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. Please remember your CA or KP badge to make your ticket purchases. We only take cash or check so make sure to come prepared.

If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact Tiffany Rivers, Activities Director if you have any questions at “activities@suncitycenter.org” or 813-642-2001.

Friday, 1/27/23 10 am-4 pm Saturday, 1/28/23 10 am-4 pm

Florida Room

The Atrium Sun City Center, Florida

For more information see our Newsletter posted in the display case outside the Art Club. Poster artwork by Larry Schafer

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.

By Tiffany Rivers, SCCCA Activities Director

Tiffany Rivers

Kings Point Dance Club Winter Wonderland Dance

Wednesday, January 4, doors open at 6:30 p.m. Kings Point Veterans Theater Music by DJs Mike and Peg. All KP, SCC, singles, and guests are welcome. Dressy casual, no shorts. BYOB. Members free, guests $5. Questions? Call Eileen, 813-296-4038.

Come Dance With Us

Sunday, January 15, doors open at 6 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater

Dance to rock n roll, cha-cha, rumba, swing, waltz and many others. Performers will be LB and Chloe. All are welcome. Coming from outside Kings Point, be sure to call ahead to be placed on the KP Visitor List at the gate, 513-258-8238 (Rosemary). A fee of $5 may be requested for entering the clubhouse. Water and ice provided. BYOB. Questions? Call Ken at 513-582-8449.

Sun City Center Dance Club

Saturday, January 14, 7 to 9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall

Dance to the exclusive playlist of “Two of a Kind” with Darlene and Larry playing the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s. Restricted to SCC residents, Freedom Plaza (FP) residents (with Yellow Access Card), and Kings Point (KP) with Gold Card / Dance Card. Members are free. Nonmembers pay $6. BYOB and snacks. Deadline for 2023 membership applications is January 14th. $25 provides free entrance to all 2023 dances. Make checks payable to SCC Dance Club. Mail to: SCC Dance Club, P.O. Box 6182, Sun City Center, FL 33571-6182 Info: 813729-3911 or “cfmac2021@outlook.com”.

Swing & Country Dance Club

Free dance lessons in January for residents who have a Sun City Center Community Association number, a Freedom Plaza ID, or a Kings Point Gold Card.

Every Friday: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Nightclub Two-Step 6:30 to 7 p.m. Individual Instruction

Every second and fourth Sunday: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Country Waltz & River Waltz 6:30 to 7 p.m. Individual Instruction

The lessons will be held in Dance Studio 1. The studio is next to the walking pool. For more information contact Cindy Rohr at 630-2351277.

Social Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons

January 2, 9, 16, 23

St. John Divine, 1015 Del Webb Blvd. E. 4 p.m. — Intermediate 2 Cha-cha 5 p.m. — Intermediate 2 West Coast Swing 6 p.m. — Intermediate I Foxtrot 7 p.m. — Beginning East Coast Swing

Contact Bernice DuBro “dancewithbernice@gmail.com”, 813634-3205, or 813-482-6784.

Cost is $30 for a four-week month or $8 per lesson. All are invited to attend.

ALSO: Ballroom and Latin Dance: Monday, January 30. Free dance lesson: 6 to 6:30 p.m. Dance is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Cost: $6.

Sun City Line Dance Club

Sun City Line Dance Club invites all SCC residents, Freedom Plaza and KP Gold Card members to start the new year off by line dancing. The first class is free with all others costing $2 per class. Become a member and pay only $20/year for all classes. The club meets Tuesday at the Community Hall on S. Pebble Beach Blvd. The beginners class is at 6:30 p.m. Beyond beginners at 5:15 p.m. You can also dance on Friday at the Atrium Building Dance Studio located by the walking pool. Intermediate at 2:15 and Upper Beginner at 3:15.

Gayle Fortin

2023 Board Members and Instructors: First row: Dee Palmer, Instructor; Gayle Rickert, Treasurer; Frank Hein, Instructor, Angie Martino, President. 2nd row: Lee Springer, Instructor; Donna Douse, Instructor; Mike Hanson, Instructor; Sandy Stratton, Secretary; Linda Cole, Social Committee: Tracey Torres, Publicity; Dawn Luckett, Social Committee; Jan Ulics, Instructor. Not pictured: Eileen Bagley, Board member at large (Photo credit: Bobbie Ray).

TRAVEL

MOFA Exhibitions, Small Show With A Big Impact

By Kai Rambow

The Museum of Fine Arts currently has two exhibitions, both worthwhile seeing. It’s a relatively small exhibition, however it has a big impact.

Rodin

True Nature: Rodin and the Age of Impressionism features both works from the well-known sculptor Rodin and art from Impressionist painters such as Monet, Degas, Cézanne, Renoir, Sisley, and Gauguin. Many of these works were unknown to me. For example, there is a painting by Gauguin, which I’d never seen before, done before he left for the South Pacific. I didn’t recognize his work.

There is an incredibly wide variety for 40 works of art. Thanks to an art exchange program we get to see these fabulous works of art. The LA County Museum is undergoing extensive renovations. Rather than storing the artwork, the LA Museum is loaning the works to the museum in St. Petersburg.

Not only do you get to see the works, but you don’t have to fly to Los Angeles. I traveled with one person well versed in art, and one not so familiar with art. Both thought seeing this exhibit was worthwhile. This exhibit is running until March 26, 2023.

Borrow and Steal

On the second floor is another exhibit. This small show has some thought provoking pieces, as well as some that are just fun. Holographic projections wink at you as you walk past.

This exhibit looks at more recent artwork and in various modes. I normally don’t like modern art, but I did like some of the pieces here. While this is a little more immersive for art lovers, we still enjoyed seeing it. This exhibit is running until February 5, 2023.

The Museum

Not to be missed is the rest of the museum. There is an eclectic collection at the museum. In each small section there is at least one piece you’ll love. For example, in the early Americas

artwork there is a face mask that was made from jade. It is an absolutely stunning piece of artwork. I took a look at it three times. There is a lovely, wide variety of artwork. You’re sure to discover a favorite piece of art. This is a fun,

visual journey.

Getting a Bite to Eat

You may want to take some time to eat after visiting the museum. You might want to visit an old favorite or try a restaurant mentioned by a friend. Downtown St. Petersburg does offer a wide range of restaurants.

Parking

We could have parked right by the museum, but none of us had the parking app. I did not want to stand in the street, download the app and set up an account while standing outside.

You can park in one of several parking garages within a short walking distance of the museum.

Here’s one address: 111 2nd Ave NE. These are automated, meaning you take a ticket, give the ticket to a machine when exiting and pay with your credit card.

If you are comfortable enough with technology, download the app in advance and link it to payment before ever leaving home. This will probably mean that you’ll be able to park really close to your destination whether it’s the museum or your favorite restaurant.

Once that is set up in advance, find a parking spot. Once parked you’ll need the meter information and your license plate to ensure you’re legally parked in your spot. More and more cities are switching to this method of parking.

Paul Cézanne, Still Life With Cherries And Peaches

Claude Monet, Nympheas

Edgar Degas, The Bellelli Sisters

Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vase of Roses

Eugene Druet, Rodin in the Pose of Balzac

Auguste Rodin, The Shade

Auguste Rodin, Heroic Bust of Victor Hugo

Auguste Rodin, Saint John the Baptist Preaching

Mixed Doubles Team Competes at Sectionals

The Sun City Center USTA Mixed Doubles 7.0 Team competed in Sectionals in Lake Nona, Florida this past weekend. In its first season, this team played three rounds of matches at Sectionals. The team members who played were Neal Peterson, Helene Peterson, Mary Huntington, Lorraine Yaghoobian, Team Captain Michael Irving, Ron Bartel, and Mark Nelson. Not shown in photo Jan GurleyBooker and Deborah Zieg.

SCC Horseshoe Association “Ringers” Win at Hillsborough Senior Games

Sun City Center residents Charlotte and Scott Wood participated in the Florida Senior Games in Horseshoes. The competition was held on December 9 at the Clearwater Horseshoe Club. The top three finishers in these state qualifiers are eligible to play in the National Senior Games, which will be held in Pittsburgh PA in July 2023. Both Charlotte and Scott are now qualified to go to the National level next summer. Scott came away with the gold medal for his 70-74 age bracket after an exciting three-man round robin playoff. Charlotte also played a three-person round robin for her 70-74 age bracket. But instead of winning by one point, she unfortunately lost by one point. But she also was able to qualify for the national competition by winning the

State Senior Games Tennis

On December 6, 2022, Michael Irving and Paul Shanley competed in the State Senior Games in Zephyrhills, Florida. Irving and Shanley are members of the Sun City Center USTA Men’s and Mixed Doubles competition teams. For information about the SCC Tennis Association or to join, you can access a membership application form and information about the club at “scctennis. net”.

On

Division A Tennis Champs

HOLE IN ONE

Club, Osprey #2 using a 7-iron. Witnessed by Brian Tramell, Jim Trimble, and Paul St. Jean.

Accomplished By: Jerry Bolt

Jerry Bolt scored a hole in one on December 9 at Scepter Golf Club, Osprey #2 (105 yards) using a 9-iron. This was witnessed by Clarence Lobaugh, Rich Halvorsen, and Bruce Cook. However, luck and skill remained on Jerry’s side, and he scored a second hole in one on the very same hole on the very next day. This impressive feat was witnessed by Frank Lewis, Bob Lake, and Harold Davis.

Day After Thanksgiving Team Tennis

CWGA-18 President’s Cup

The 2022 CWGA-18 President’s Cup was held Monday, November 14, and Wednesday, November 16. This was a 36-hole net score tournament. We had 32 members signed up with 32 playing the first day and 29 playing the second day. Linda Suh was our overall winner with a net score of 142. Linda was congratulated and presented with a bouquet of flowers after the tournament scoring was completed. Bobbie Cesarek presented the Crystal Clock at the annual awards luncheon on Wednesday, December 7th .

Dianne Blackwell and Judy Peterson tied for 2nd (145); Mary Lou Anderson and Lynn Noyes tied for 4th (146) Barb Struble 4th (150); Joyce Shade and Judy Wagner tied for 6th; Lynne Fandetti 8th (151); Rose Bryan, Judy Luce, Joyce Stafford and Melissa Kohn tied for 9th (152).

Much thanks to our Tournament co-chairs Mary Ellen Laprade and Kim Moore. Judy Peterson and Barb Struble for all their help and for doing our scoring.

Tennis Mixer Sports and Social Fun

The Sun City Center First Sunday Tennis Mixer group had a wonderful sunny day in Florida to celebrate the holiday season. This couple’s group, coordinated by Rolande Poulin and Nancy Williams, have been playing together for over 10 years. There were 20 players meeting at the courts for four rounds of 30-minute tennis, rotating players each session. Food and fun for December was hosted by their culinary friends Yong Sun & Greg Hodge. For information about the Tennis Association contact Membership Director Ron Doom at 813-304-9748

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

The Sun City Center Tennis Association held a Team Tennis event on the day after Thanksgiving. Over 36 players formed six teams to participate in five rounds of men’s, women’s and mixed doubles. The captains made these assignments each round.

Wednesday, December 7, the Sun City Center traveling A team became Champions with a 13 win, 1 loss record. They competed with all age brackets including some twenty-year-olds!

Front L to R: Janet Hoffman, Edna Carlin, and Melody O’Sullivan. Back L to R: Lee Greenlee, Helene Peterson, Deb Zieg, Melody Smith, Phylis Albritton, Linda Bacon, and Paige Haggbloom. Not pictured: Marti Turocy.

Lawn Bowling League Winners

By Garry Higgins

This year, the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club’s Tuesday League consisted of three divisions with six teams in each. The team of Eric Porr, Ed Mattia, and Marge Lange advanced to the Championship Round and defeated the team of Bob Fladung, Gary Houdek, and Dottie Blanchard.

2022 Novice Lawn Bowling Champion

By Garry Higgins

The Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club Novice Championship (bowling two years or less) playdowns were recently completed. The final match saw Dave Wilson defeat Steve Maddocks in a singles match that went 25 ends before Dave reached 21 shots for the win. Congratulations to both. If you are a member of the Sun City Center Community Association and would like to see what the sport of lawn bowling is all about, please feel free to drop by the Club (Main Campus) and speak to any members there. More information on the Club’s website “suncitycenterlbc.com”.

Athlete of the Month: Debbie Zieg

By Bob Monahan, Sports Correspondent

Everywhere I go I see Debbie Zieg, this month’s athlete of the month. The local newspapers feature her as a top senior tennis player, but recently I have seen her at Pickleball, SCC Line Dance and Sunday night dances. She hones her athletic fitness by being the president of the Latin Fitness Dance Club right here in Sun City Center. Not just an athlete, Debbie is an award winning member of the Stained Glass Club. She likes the studio to share tips and ideas and socialize with other club members.

Best of all Debbie is a kind and thoughtful person never criticizing a “newbie” in any sport and always offering to share her expertise. When I told Debbie I wanted to get a picture for this article she wanted a picture of the whole tennis team and not just of herself.

Born and raised in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, Debbie lived two blocks from the Potomac River. Her love of tennis started at age eight. Every day after school she would go down by the river and spend endless hours hitting tennis balls against a building. She took lessons at the YMCA and played competitively in high school at T.C. Williams High School of Alexandria, Virginia. Continuing on, Debbie graduated from Northern Virginia Community College as a Computer Science major and ended up starting her career at the college’s Manassas campus. She was in charge of all placement testing including math, English and English as a second language. With a focus on fitness, she was instrumental in getting management

approval for a fitness center for the faculty and staff to use.

While in Northern Virginia, Debbie married Roger Zieg and raised two children in that area of the state. In 2009, Debbie retired and moved to Sun City Center. Roger’s parents had a home on Valley Forge in town, so they were both quite familiar with all the opportunities that awaited them.

Tennis was her main love. With her playing partner Edna Carlin, in 2017 they placed fifth in the National Senior Games held in Birmingham, Alabama. Debbie continues to compete in tennis county wide and statewide. Presently, she and her doubles partner Melody Smith are part of a SCC group that is currently in first place.

For the future Debbie Zieg plans, “God willing to remain active both physically and mentally. Being active helps me to be positive and happy. Life is good!”

The residents of Sun City Center are fortunate to have such a positive person who inspires people to be the best they can be. Congratulations to Debbie Zieg for being named “Athlete of the Month.”

Ed Mattia, Marge Lange, and Eric Porr.

Tournament Director Robert Trautwein (right) presents the Novice Championship Plaque to Dave Wilson.

By Debbie Caneen

is provided by Debbie Caneen, Director of Admissions, Sun Towers from items To submit events for future publications, send them by the 15th of the prior month. Debbie also publishes Ads and Events, a weekly e-mail containing information about what’s happening in 33573. Your event will also appear in the weekly Ads and Events e-mail and on the website www.SCCAdsAndEvents.com. Send all events by e-mail to sccfreeads@tampabay.rr.com. You only need to submit your Event one time each month for it to appear in both The News of Kings Point and SCC Ads and Events.

SPECIAL EVENTS

Please include all basic information, especially Price (or list it’s Free) and Contact Information (phone, e-mail, or website). Six lines maximum. Send to: sccfreeads@tampabay.rr.com. As soon as space permits, we will put it in the weekly e-mail and it will run until event date passes. You do not need to submit it again. PLEASE NOTE: This area is for SPECIAL EVENTS only. WEEKLY, MONTHLY, or ONGOING EVENTS are listed on our website under WEEKLY & MONTHLY MEETINGS at www.SCCAdsAndEvents.com which is updated every weekend

MON. JAN 2, 9, 16, 23, 30MONDAYS - PARKINSON’S

BOXING CLASSES 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center, FL. Join Caroline Futch (Owner/Coach of Southshore PD Fitness & Rock Steady Boxing Southshore) Caroline’s father has PD and she has made it her mission to help him and others like him who are fighting against Parkinson’s Disease. These fitness classes improve quality-of-life as well as help make new friends in the Southshore community who support and understand each other and PD. Please call Caroline Futch for info and to schedule an evaluation prior to starting classes at 352.274.4883 or email: southshorepdfitness@ gmail.com – website: southshorefl.rsbaffiliate.com.

therapeutic Tai Chi for Seniors and will provide guidance in this healthy exercise. Tai Chi has been proven to increase strength and balance! This class is offered every Wednesday. You will be required to wear a mask to protect our residents. For more information, contact Debbie Caneen at 813-8922990.

THU. JAN 5 - CRAFT BEER & WINE CLUB OF SUN CITY CENTER 1:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Are you a fan of craft beer and wine, either making it or drinking it? Join our Fermenting Fanatics! Come and learn more about the fine art of brewing. We gather to create craft beers and wines, enjoy tastings as a club and learn about the process of fermenting along with participating in field trips to local breweries! As always, we request our members bring either two bottles of beer or a bottle of wine for tasting. We meet the first Thursday of every month and have a field trip to a local establishment the third Friday of every month. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice.org.

FRI. JAN 6 - COMEDY NIGHT: AL ROMAS AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Location: Firehouse Cultural Center. Al Romas is an award-winning comedy club veteran who has built a solid reputation as a consistent crowd favorite. Ticket Prices: $23 members, $28 future members. All reservations are in advance. Call for tickets: 813-645-7651.

SUN. JAN 8 - AUDITIONS FOR THE 2023 VESTA FOLLIES

Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. Join Seniors in Service for this monthly group which mixes Support Group with Community resources to improve the lives of blind and low vision individuals. Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920.

SAT. JAN 14 - MEMPHIS RUB BAND AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. Come out and see The Memphis Rub Band, a dynamic Blues, R&B, and Rock ‘n Roll group. Call in for tickets: 813-645-7651.

MON. JAN 16 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP OF SUN CITY CENTER 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center in the theater. Our speaker will be William Parker, owner of DeliveRxd Pharmacy. If you have had success with any treatment you have tried, please come to share! If you have Parkinson’s, or are caring for someone with this disease, be sure to attend! Complimentary valet parking available at entrance. For additional info, call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990.

TUE. JAN 17 - SOUTH BAY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY MEETING Beginning at 10:30 a.m. there is an optional Round Table Discussion, followed by a luncheon at noon, and then the presentation by our Guest Speaker at 1 p.m. at the United Methodist Church in the Life Enrichment Center (LEC), 1971 Haverford Avenue, Sun City Center. The cost is $18 for the meal and the presentation. For reservations and meal choice,

call Dianna at 864-607-1330. Make your checks payable to SBGS, and mail it to South Bay Genealogical Society, PO Box 5202, Sun City Center, FL 33571. Your check must be received by January 5.

WED. JAN 18 - VETERANS HISTORY PROJECT, A PROGRAM OF THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. by appointment only at Sun Towers Retirement Community. In partnership with the Veterans History Project, a program of the Library of Congress, we are seeking Veterans to participate in this project. The program captures through a video interview, firsthand account of Veterans who served in any branch of the US military in any capacity, from World War I through the present, and are no longer serving are eligible to participate. Civilians who served in support of a US war effort in a professional capacity are also welcome to participate. If you are a Veteran or know Veterans that would like to share their stories, please call Chris Clermont at Sun Towers to schedule your interview time at 813-634-3347.

THU. JAN 19 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING TO TEST YOUR BALANCE FOR KINGS POINT RESIDENTS 10:00 - 12:00 noon at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Have your fall risk screened at no cost to you! This simple screening takes

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TUE. JAN 3 -

SUN CITY CENTER LIONS CLUB

LUNCHEON AND PRESENTATION 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 12:00 noon for lunch and scheduled speaker at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. For over 37 years volunteer Lions Club members of the Sun City Center Lions Club, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) service club have provided humanitarian services to those needing assistance. Questions or to RSVP: Lions Club Membership Chairperson Bob Jenkins cell 586-295-5135 email rwj045@ gmail.com.

WED. JAN 4, 11, 18, 25THERAPEUTIC TAI CHI FOR HEALTH 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Our therapists have advanced training in

“REMEMBERING THE 60’S” 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. in the Kings Point Banquet Room. Solo and Specialty performers are asked to bring their act for audition. Those interested in performing with the Follies Chorus are asked to come at 4 p.m. Everyone involved in the Follies is invited to participate in the Chorus. There will be opportunities in this show to be considered for a solo part in many of the Chorus numbers. Show dates will be Friday and Saturday, March 10 & 11, 2023. Tech rehearsal will be held on Thursday, March 9. Chorus members will rehearse every Monday & Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons beginning January 12. The theme for the 2023 Follies is “Remembering the 60s”. Info: Director, Diane LeFrancois at dilef62@yahoo.com or Linda Stone, Assistant Director, at wapsigal@hotmail.com.

THU. JAN 12 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING TO TEST YOUR BALANCE FOR KINGS POINT RESIDENTS 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the Culinary Room at the 2020 Centre, Kings Point. Are you at risk? Have your fall risk screened at no cost to you! This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Call to schedule today! (813) 331-3035.

FRI. JAN 13 - LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP –SPONSORED BY THE MEN’S CLUB OF SCC 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement

Once again, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South has been named one of the 100 Top Hospitals® in the U.S. by Fortune®/Merative™.*

It’s not all about winning awards. In addition to being named a 100 Top Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is part of BayCare Health System, ranked one of the highestperforming health systems in the country by Fortune/ Merative.* St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is well known for its advanced medical technologies and outstanding patient care, with more than 70 specialties represented among our medical teams. And that includes doctors who can easily connect you with a top specialist if needed, plus access to the entire network of BayCare physicians, specialists and services. Just a few of the reasons why St. Joseph’s Hospital-South is the better choice for health care. Learn more: StJosephsSouth.org

Seniors in Service Volunteers Donate to Homeless Vets

Originally from Delaware, Kris Dierks has been living in SCC for 13 years. She has found opportunities to serve the community through numerous recycling efforts. “I read an article about how plastic bags were being collected, recycled, and crocheted into plastic sleeping mats for homeless Vets. I contacted Shawna Wainwright, who initiated the sleeping mat project in our area. I was thrilled to help since my husband was a former Navy communications officer during the Vietnam war.”

Shawna, a native Delawarean, has lived in SCC for a year. She became interested in making plastic yarn (plarn) into

something purposeful. She has handmade 30 mats for the homeless in DE and has made 15 lightweight, 5-foot mats, each

Silver Ospreys Meeting

January 13, doors open at 11 a.m., lunch at noon Plaza Room, Freedom Fairways, 3932 Upper Creek Drive

The Silver Ospreys Squadron #64 of the Association of Naval Aviation welcomes our speaker this month CAPT Dan Covelli, USN. He is the Commanding officer of the Training Systems Division at the Naval Air Warfare Center in Orlando, FL. His topic will be Maintaining Naval Aviation Fleet Readiness.

A 1994 graduate of S.U.N.Y. Maritime College with a Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Electrical Engineering, CAPT Covelli received his commission through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps and was designated a Naval Aviator in 1997. Selected to attend the prestigious United States Naval Test Pilot School, he reported for training with Class 123 and earned an Engineering Test Pilot Certificate in 2003. Later he earned a Master of Science Degree in Aviation Systems from the University of Tennessee.

In 2005, CAPT Covelli reported to the “Gray Wolves” of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 142. During this tour, he deployed to Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Al Asad Airbase, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. CAPT Covelli reported to

South continued from page 14. less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Interested in knowing more now? Call to schedule today! (813) 331-3035.

THU. JAN 19 - VETERANS CLUB VALOR CAFE - Are you a Veteran or First Responder? 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. A fresh take on our monthly meetings. Valor Cafes are social hours during which Veterans and First Responders find camaraderie. During this relaxed and comforting event, you can share stories and interact with others who share a

Program Executive Officer, Tactical Aircraft Programs in 2008 to serve as the Airborne Electronic Attack and EA6B Program Office (PMA234) EA-6B Mission Systems Integrated Product Team Lead, and subsequently the Airborne Electronic Attack Products Deputy Program Manager.

A Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron 1 graduate, CAPT Covelli has flown 119 combat missions and logged over 2,800 flight hours in 19 different aircraft. His decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (4), Air Medal – Strike/Flight (9), Navy Commendation Medal (2), and Navy Achievement Medal (3) along with various other personal, unit, and service medals.

The Silver Ospreys Squadron is comprised of retired military personnel from all United States military branches, as well as members of the general public with an interest in military aviation. All are welcome. Reservations for the luncheon meeting are required, and can be made by contacting Ed Mooney, Treasurer, via email at “edmllc@yahoo.com”, by mail at 2434 Nottingham Greens Drive, Sun City Center, FL 33573, or by telephone at 813.751.6844.

common bond through shared experiences. We provide refreshments, coffee, soft drinks or adult beverages and you provide the conversation. This will be recurring the third Thursday of every month. Questions contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice.org.

SAT. JAN 28 - KEITH COLEMAN - JOHNNY CASH AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Location: Firehouse Cultural Center. Keith Coleman has performed his tribute to Johnny Cash throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. Call in for tickets: 813645-7651.

weighing two pounds, since this past spring. “Since living here, I am honored to serve our homeless Vets by crocheting blankets and plastic sleeping mats. The water-resistant mats could also be used for insulation. If individuals wrap themselves, they could stay warmer during the winter months. From start to

finish, it takes about three weeks to complete one mat.”

Another SCC resident, Kathy Luebkert, originally from South Carolina, offered to help cut plastic bags and roll them into plarn balls. Kathy spends hours each week cutting and also volunteering for Seniors in Service by helping at Our Lady Food Pantry in Wimauma. She said, “I feel a sense of duty to those who are less fortunate. I wear my Seniors in Service shirt proudly. We are keeping about 5,000 plastic bags out of landfills.”

These handmade items will be donated to New Beginnings of Tampa, an organization that offers emergency shelter, and transitional housing. As a team, Kris, Kathy and Shawna recycle and make the mats because they care, and every person ‘mat’ters.

Security Patrol Toy Drive

The Sun City Center Security Patrol collected several hundred gifts during their annual toy drive. Toys that were donated were given to Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission, which is a Mission that is overseen by the Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Patrol Captain Nancy Lang served as the liaison between the Patrol and the Mission. “There is a real need among Wimauma parishioners,” according to Lang. She went on to say that Covid has caused a widespread loss of jobs in the community, and that there is a large need among the transient immigrant community.

The toy drive has proven to be more successful with the reduction of concerns that were related to the pandemic. The Security Patrol specifically collected toys for infants up to the age of five. Other organizations collected gifts for older children.

According to Lang, “Every volunteer that brings a gift, brings it unwrapped. The parents come and shop to pick up gifts for their own children. The gifts are going to all be what their

children can use.”

The Patrol has partnered with various organizations in the past, including the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Department. It was determined that there was a significant need within the larger SCC community, which led to the partnership with the Mission.

“The Patrol would like to thank members of Sun City Center, and also the Patrol, for donating,” said John Weaver, President of the Security Patrol Board of Directors. For more information about the Patrol, call 813-642-

Photo credit Dick Hillyer

Kris Dierks, Kathy Leubkert, and Shawna Wainwright.

Jim Mecsko Receives Hero of Service Award

“Volunteers to Our Lady’s Pantry come from all walks of life bringing countless skills with them,” says Tom Bullaro. Bullaro, who is co-director of the Pantry with his wife Anita says, “we were fortunate one day, when Jim wandered into the Pantry to lend a hand.

“Jim has been a dedicated volunteer at Our Lady Pantry for more than seven years,” Bullaro says. “He initially volunteered at the Pantry helping to stock shelves and pack boxes and since then has become instrumental in pantry operations. He started driving to pick-up food when the pantry was in need of another driver, too. After about a year, Jim even had the bright idea to set up a computer program for registering clients. That program has received accolades from Feeding Tampa Bay.”

The way Mecsko remembers his transition from stocking shelves and packing boxes into clients’ cars on Saturday mornings is that one day when things had slowed down outside, he wandered over to the registration desk to see what was going on.

“I noticed Anita shuffling multiple copies of paper as clients gave their names,” Mecsko says. “Anita told me it was no longer enough to give food to the hungry. We needed to keep all kinds of

A Vital Lifeline

By Ilona Merritt

Lifeline medical alert systems connect users in an emergency with immediate assistance. The systems help aging adults live independently and give caregivers peace of mind knowing their loved ones have support in a crisis. The designs come in various devices, including buttons, necklaces, bracelets, and smartwatches. How do medical alert systems work? Through a simple push of a button, voice command, or built-in fall detection technology, users instantly connect to a 24/7 monitoring center. Trained professionals will assess the situation, dispatch emergency services, and alert family members if necessary. Here in SCC, our medical alert connection is through the SCC Men’s Club Lifeline program. Nellie Brock has been working for the SCC Men’s Club Lifeline Program for 14 years. She was a gracious and informative source about this vital program. The Men’s Club of Sun City Center provides Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System as a

community service to greater Sun City Center residents. With Lifeline, help is there when you need it ... whether it is medical, fire, or sheriff’s assistance that you need. Lifeline is especially beneficial for those who live alone, are disabled, are recovering from surgery, or are dependent on caregivers. In 2021, Lifeline responded to 556 assistance requests in the greater Sun City center; over 75 resulted in transportation to the hospital.

Prices are very reasonable but vary. Are you getting one or two, and which size do you need or prefer? Remember: free installation, repair/service calls, and all of the help buttons are waterproof so that they can be worn in the shower. You pay only a small monthly fee. The SCC Men’s Club, a nonprofit, provides equipment and maintenance.

This program is invaluable to our community and all the workers and volunteers deserve special recognition and thanks from all of us.

records for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and even more for Feeding Tampa Bay, our regional food bank. All of these agencies require assorted information to ensure the safety of food distributed to our clients.

We also had to document how many people were receiving this food. I thought to myself, why can’t this information be computerized?”

Then, because of his background in electronics, and as a computer programmer, he had the skill set to make the changes he visualized. Mecsko had served as the test engineer on the sonar section in the front of the Mark-48 torpedo for the U.S. Navy, at Gould Oceans Systems. He also served as gaming commissions officer, writing inventory software for the Hard Rock Casino, in Tampa. It was the perfect background to bring Our Lady’s Pantry fully into the 21st century — and he got to work.

“As the Pantry expanded, we have been able to expand our program to keep track of everything,” Mecsko says.

According to Robin Ingles, CEO, Seniors in Service, The Hero of Service award was given to Mecsko for his outstanding service and dedication to his community, and his commitment to Seniors in Service.

International and Beyond

By Kai Rambow

Want to have some fun and learn something new in the process? The Center4Life is running their spring semester starting on Monday, February 13. Genealogy, finance, history, art, sciences, current events, psychology, and conversational Spanish are some of the most popular offerings.

You can access more information at “www.sccumc. com/4lifelearning”. You can also register online or at their office. The longest courses are 90-minute sessions taking place over six weeks. Some courses are less than six weeks. Fees are nominal. Course offerings take place at the United Methodist Church. You don’t have to be involved with the church in any way; courses are open to all members of the community.

Nellie Brock, Office Manager

Roark Williams, Men’s Club volunteer

News of SCC reporter Kai Rambow leads a six-part series on International Travel for the Center4Life.

Beth Israel Sisterhood Game Day

Tuesday, January 3, at 1 p.m.

Beth Israel Social Hall

Interfaith Council’s Grant Cycle Opening Soon

Please

Beth Israel Sisterhood for an afternoon of fun. We’ll be playing games, such as BINGO and 1960’s TV Theme song trivia, schmoozing and eating yummy homemade desserts! Prizes will be awarded. No charge, please RSVP to “sisterhood2@jcscc.org” by January 1 to let us know if you will be coming.

by Paula Lickfeldt

The Interfaith Social Action Council would like to announce that it will open its winter grants cycle on February 1. Applications for grants will be accepted from February 1 through March 15 at 11:59 p.m.

To qualify for a grant, you must be a Southshore service organization with an approved IRS 501(c)(3) designation or a local school with an 85-8012621971-C-8 designation. The purpose of the grants is to benefit residents within our service area, bounded by the Alafia River on the north, the Hillsborough County line on the south and the east and the Tampa Bay shoreline on the west. Visit “interfaithcouncilscc. com” to download the application forms. Email your form for review and consideration to “isacofscc@gmail.com”.

Tampa Bay Lightning Santa Welcome Merry Christmas

Photos

Lapidary Club Banquet

By Lin Opgenorth

The Florida Room was merry and bright as over 60 Lapidary Club members gathered on December 8 for a holiday banquet, which included an annual meeting, officer elections and 2022 donations. Newly elected officers included President Lin Opgenorth, Vice President Sherry Stowe and Secretary Jinny Hurley. Continuing officers include Treasurer Ted Boydston and Assistant Treasurer Sharon Stank. In addition to traditional games and prizes for members. $10,000 in donations were shared equally between five area nonprofits. Lapidary Club members, several of whom volunteer for the chosen organizations, had the honor of introducing donation recipients.

Joan Russel presented a $2,000 check to Marty Gifford, CFO of the SCC Emergency Squad, and Kathy Bitman presented a $2,000 check to John Mayoka, a board member of Samaritan Services. Margo Lee shared several heroic deeds of the SCC Security Patrol to introduce Chief Tim Broad, who offered additional insightful information.

CARE Community Outreach Coordinator, explained the workings and future expansion plans of the Ruskin animal shelter. Finally, Lin Opgenorth introduced Kelly Kowall, founder and President of My Warrior’s Place, a retreat center for veterans, military service members, first responders, Gold Star, Blue Star and Silver Star families, as well as service dogs.

Collector’s Corner: “I Didn’t Know That!”

By Francine Webb

I recently purchased a copy of Margaret Gibson’s book “The Kaleidoscope Collector’s Guide.” After three-plus years of searching for this excellent source of information on kaleidoscopes, I’ve been pouring through, page by page, learning about the various artists – several whose work I own.

I had never given any thought to the marbles used in marble scopes. After reading about Shanti Devi, Ritama, and Sugito, I couldn’t help but start combing the internet to learn more about marbles. This has opened a whole new world for me.

price marbles command. I then explored the internet further only to learn how little I knew - from the history of marbles to sizing, how they’re made, the grading system, the many types (Latticinio Core Swirls, Divided, Solid and Ribbon Core Swirls. Then there are “End of Day”, Onionskin, Paneled Cloud, Mist, Submarine, Clambroths, Indians, Branded Opaques, Lutzes, and Sulphides.

Joanne Kerr, the proud owner of several rescue pups, sang the praises of CARE, a no-kill shelter in Ruskin that has brought joy into the lives of many local residents.

Cheri Schumacher,

The SCC Lapidary Club is a 504 organization, specializing in the creation of jewelry, including chain maille, enameling, silver casting, faceting, kumihimo, wire wrapping, cabochons, polymer clay, bead weaving, bead stringing, Viking knit, and more. Their workshop, classroom and jewelry showroom is located on Cherry Hills Drive, near North Pebble Beach. Classes are offered weekly, and membership is open to all SCC CA members, Freedom Plaza residents and Kings Point Gold Card members.

Frost?!? in Sun City Center?

A few years ago, I purchased a marble scope which gives me tremendous pleasure when I look through it. Out of simple curiosity, I browsed through eBay and was astonished –actually flabbergasted, at the

I was curious. Are there any dichroic marbles? By golly… yes! But the prices I’ve seen equal to or surpass what I paid for my marble scope with its three exquisite marbles. It’s not my intention to start a marble collection, but I’m fascinated by the beauty of these spheres and the artistry they entail. I realize this article isn’t about kaleidoscopes, but there is a relation between the two which I though was worth sharing. Hope you think so too!

News of Freedom Plaza

By Peggy Burgess

January brings us, once again, face-to-face (no pun intended) with the origin of its name, Janus, the Roman god with two faces: one looking back to the past, one looking forward to the future. As we at Freedom Plaza comply, we can look “way” back, 30+ years, in fact, on two resident group activities that were initiated even before Freedom Plaza, itself, opened and still play important roles in the lifestyle of its residents. Both have been modified with the years, yet maintain their original focus.

By Ilona Merritt

Frost

in Sun City Center?!?!

If you watch the weather channel, you will see lots of snow and ice in many communities in our country. Snow and ice are good reasons to stay home in SCC, where we moved to stay away from the snow. Or at least, that is what we thought.

In 1961, the weather cooperated with the builders, and everything was going right on schedule. They were in the midst of plans for a “Sneak Preview” weekend. All the plans were made, and Mr. Webb had given his speech of readiness to open New Year’s day. And then disaster struck. Shortly before Christmas, the temperatures had dropped to the low teens. The decorative plants had no chance to grow a root system, and the freeze destroyed them. Del Webb’s Sun City was a mess. An unfamiliar sight in SCC. The temperatures

dipped to 17 degrees. So far, the coldest day on record had been 15 degrees.

Hubbell’s Nursery, a local company, took one look at the problem and came to the rescue. They sent trucks all over south Florida to find plants that were not hit by the frost. They then installed all the plants in Sun City, and what could not be replaced was sprayed with green paint, and the beauty of our community was restored.

In 1989, a freak freeze at Christmas time and a broken sprinkler at the tree just north of the Atrium created this beautiful ice house. It’s pretty, and also a reminder of the good reasons to be grateful for every warm, sunny day.

The History Society extends a heartfelt “Thank you” to member Dianne Baker for the wonderful job she did on a new History Society Wall display in the Atrium.

The oldest of these longstanding activities is Freedom Plaza Opera Club with its first meetings, in 1990, held in the Marketing Office (now the Plaza Club), the only building then completed on the 140-acre campus. When Freedom Plaza officially opened its doors in 1992, Opera Club’s non-resident attendees were grandfathered in and it continues to be open to the public. Freedom Plaza Opera Club, newly named, “Opera & More!” currently holds regular biweekly sessions, which are both informative and entertaining, as well as hosting excursions to area movie theaters for Met-Live productions. Visitors, as always, are welcome.

The second longest-standing resident group activity is the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund, Inc., which was founded in 1992, and is managed by an all-resident volunteer board of directors. It has awarded well over a million dollars in educational grants to employees of Freedom Plaza, its funding provided through resident donations and special events. The latest of these scholarship fundraising events was a fashion show sponsored by the Freedom Plaza Sales & Marketing Department.

Nine Freedom Plaza residents took their turns modeling three ensembles each while

attendees, seated at tables, enjoyed a sumptuous buffet of hot and cold hors d’oeuvres plus a selection of wines and beverages. Multiple racks of additional clothing were displayed for perusal and for sale, all items shown or worn furnished by the boutique, “Accessories and More”.

Members of the Scholarship Fund Board of Directors sold raffle tickets for 10 extravagant gift baskets that were created and donated by various operational departments of Freedom Plaza. Appropriate background music by DJ Thor added a jovial note to the entire affair.

While looking back on the past, both recent and distant, is rewarding, looking forward to the continuation of exciting events and entertainments in the future assures Freedom Plaza residents of a very happy new year!

Freedom Plaza resident-model Judy Brown sparkles in silver at the Fashion Show benefiting the Freedom Plaza Scholarship Fund (Photo credit: Tomi Renau).

L to R: Kathy Bitman, John Mayoka, Tim Broad, Margo Lee, Cheri Schumacher, Joanne Kerr, Lin Opgenorth, Kelly Kowall, Marty Gifford, Joan Russel.

Florida Theatre Back Up and Running

By Kai Rambow

Editor’s Note: The Ft. Myers area was hit pretty hard by Hurricane Ian. We’ve decided to feature some of our favorite places and activities in the area when they reopen. By visiting and taking part in these activities we’re helping them recover.

We were all laughing hard in the middle of an innovative comedy. Exactly four weeks after Hurricane Ian struck Fort Myers, we were watching a first-rate, live performance at the Florida Rep Theatre. It was, as has been the case for many years, a wonderful experience.

This regional theater, often reviewed by publications such as The Wall Street Journal, as being “one of the best theaters in the country” continues to deliver. Their ability to recover is impressive.

weeks after Ian we reopened our next performance at our main stage.”

While this was happening several staff and cast members had their own homes to clean up as well. Seeing a fantastic performance, one would never guess the hardships endured by the people and the organization.

Having attended several great performances over the years, I can share with you this is a way to have an entertaining trip and help support a worthy theater group.

Tips for a Great Trip: Visit the Florida Rep website to see upcoming productions. When you find something you like you can book it online. If you have any questions, I’ve always found everyone there to be most helpful.

St. Andrew Winter Arts And Crafts

By Paula Lickfeldt

Fifty different vendors had tables displaying jewelry, wood items, pottery, sewing projects, cards and paintings. The members of the church had a bake sale and offered a hot dog lunch. The event was very well attended.

At the time Ian made landfall, Florida Rep had one production running. A storm surge caused serious damage, flooding the backstage area, dressing rooms and office spaces. Fortunately, the main theater was spared flooding in the seating area. “We had to cancel 16 performances,” shared Greg Longenhagen, Artistic Director. “We found temporary space, rescued the set, dried it out and resumed performances two weeks later.

“Over 50 staff members from various departments rolled up their sleeves to clean up the mess in our main stage. There was thick, slick mud unlike anything I’d ever seen before. Our remediation team dried out and sanitized the space. Four

Calculate a two to two-anda-half hour drive. We did the drive in under two hours without any traffic delays. Parking by the theater is free.

You can grab a bite to eat either before or after your show. We stopped on route. There is a restaurant right across the street, which we checked out. It appears to be very popular with the locals. Recommend making reservations.

Florida Repertory Theatre

2268 Bay Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 (239) 332-4488 www.floridarep.org

The Lodge 2278 First Street Fort Myers, FL 33901 (239) 433-2739 www.thelodgefl.com

Despite taking a hard hit from Hurricane Ian, the Fort Myers area is impressively working to rebuild.

Waiting for the show to start, we could look at the beautiful set. It was hard to imagine all the work it took to get back up and running in a month.

A store right across from the box office of Florida Rep replacing walls impacted by the storm surge.

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you lived alone and there was an emergency? Or do you like to take your dog for a walk but are concerned about falling and no one being there to assist you? For Greater SCC residents who think they need a medical alert button and don't believe they can afford it, the Men's Club of Sun City Center would like for you to contact our office.

Because the Men's Club is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit club, we offer the Philips Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) at a more competitive rate than what Philips charges at the national level. Our pricing is comparable to other systems in the market as well – just compare systems with similar capabilities. Installation and all service calls are completed by Men's Club volunteers at no charge to the Subscriber.

The Men's Club was formed in the early 1960's. In 1991, the Men's Club decided to offer Philips Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) to residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point with no annual contract.

The PERS offering began with the purchase of four units with installation provided by Men's Club volunteers. This offering continues today with multiple systems from which to choose - including one that will work anywhere in the U.S., a dedicated office staff, and over 25 trained Men's Club volunteers who provide personable and knowledgeable service for our Subscribers.

Get prompt caring assistance at the push of a button, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Thirsty Bird is "Best of the Best"

One December 13, Judge Bernie Hynes critiqued more than 100 photos that had previously won top prizes in the SCC Photo Club competitions. His goal was to choose the Best of the Best. That coveted top prize went to Tom Alcumbrak for his beautiful picture titled, “Thirsty Bird”. Runner up in the print category was “So Broken, So Young” by Christina Brittain.

Other winners included: “Yes I Brushed” By Madlyn Blom (Best Digital Creative), “Working“, by Barbara Klimczak (Best Digital Mono), ”Barista“, By Bob Sanchez (Best Digital Documentary), “Smoking Mesa II“, by Bruno Graziano (Best Mono Print), and “Defying Gravity”, by Kai Rambow (Best Documentary Print). Congratulations to all the winners.

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Defying Gravity by Kai Rambow.

So Broken, So Young by Christina Brittain.

Smoking Mesa II by Bruno Graziano.

Barista by Bob Sanchez.

Thirsty Bird by Tom Alcumbrak.

Who Rescued Whom: Max the Miracle Dog

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

Sometimes it is not entirely clear just who is doing the rescuing when someone “homes” an abandoned, abused, or stray dog. Kerry Irving’s Max the Miracle Dog: The Heart-Warming Tale of a Life-Saving Friendship is one such rescue.

Kerry Irving had a tough childhood. Really no better or worse than so many others where there is anger, shouting, and ultimately, a broken home ending in divorce, estrangement, and insecurities. Fortunately, for Irving, things seemed to come together— but not before a childhood Irving says was spent “believing I wasn’t good enough to feel wanted or loved.”

He had reached a point where he had a very successful sales career, he finally “had it all, from a loving wife to a challenging job and an all-consuming outdoor pursuit. I had everything and wanted to make the most of it. Focused on the road ahead, I was determined to live my life to the fullest, with no sense that something could close in from behind and threaten to take it all away.”

But “close in” it did. And it did threaten to “take it all away.” In preparation for a big, upcoming agricultural trade show, Irving volunteered to pick up necessary last minute promotional materials. In traffic on the return trip home, relaxing and waiting for the queue to move, he glanced in his rearview mirror. There, he says, “to the sound of squealing brakes, I saw the grill of a fastapproaching truck fill my field of vision. The impact that followed was so loud it seemed like a bomb has just detonated in my car.” He slammed against the headrest, was jerked forward, and restrained by the seatbelt he felt the full impact of the airbag, as well. Adrenaline and shock made him believe he had escaped serious injury, but he couldn’t have been more wrong!

What the doctor estimated a recovery period of “a couple of weeks” likewise couldn’t have been more wrong. As time went on, recovery began to seem like a distant dream. It wasn’t long before he was both unemployed and housebound.

Depression and thoughts of suicide became his constant companions.

Eventually his wife prodded him, suggesting he just walk to the nearby neighborhood store.

The short walk was endless, unbearable pain, but as he walked, he met a small dog in a yard he was passing. The dog, Max, peered through the rail separating him from the young man walking by. He seemed so sad. Irving stopped to visit with Max. He found the short visit uplifting. The little dog’s big brown eyes seemed to offer sympathy.

Irving began to make the short trip every day, with the highlight being a visit with Max. Long story short: the two became great friends. Eventually Irving asked the woman whose dog Max was if he, Irving, could take Max for a short walk, offering the seemingly lonely dog exercise and giving Irving incentive to

walk regularly and take longer walks.

Irving soon decided to begin a mobile locksmith business. And it seemed only logical that Max would go on calls with him in his locksmith’s van. It seemed harder and harder to drop Max back at home at the end of the day. “For all the time we spent together, it still felt like a wrench to drop Max back at the yard. While I fully recognized that this was where he belonged, there was nothing I could do to stop the feeling of emptiness that accompanied me back at my own house.”

But it seems the friendship with the dog who brought him hope and gave him courage wasn’t to last. Or was it? One afternoon, Irving was heartbroken to hear that the woman and Max were moving away – “a new job, a new start,” she told him. The words hit like a sledgehammer. “We’re leaving at the end of the month,” the woman added, “so there’s plenty of time for you two to say goodbye.”

Several days later, she told Irving, “This move, it’s a shame you can’t come with us. I’m going to be so busy that Max will have to get used to a lot more alone time.” Irving was devastated.

“I wish Max could stay,” he told his wife, Angela, later that evening. And encouraging and supportive as she had been with all the challenges Irving had faced, she said, “Why don’t you offer.” So, he did.

And this is really only the beginning of the amazing world that opened up for Irving, his wife, and an amazing little springer spaniel who eventually became the best-known, most loved dog in England (second only to the Queen’s corgis) and his canine siblings and the recipients of an invitation to a Royal Garden Party where they met England’s favorite Royals—Prince William and Catherine, the then - Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

This book—and Kerry Irving’s story—is more than just a heartwarming story. It is uplifting and inspirational garnering such popularity that Max Out in the Lake District can be found on Facebook and fans can follow the adventures of Irving and his brood and the scenic English countryside is captured in amazing photos—some, but not all--with the pups as their centerpiece.

Max’s descendants, a few of Kerry Irving’s boys.

‘Seniors in Service’ volunteers,

Wainwright, presented Rhonda Byrd, a lead volunteer at Our Lady’s Pantry, with mementos honoring our veterans. Rhonda will then drive to Tampa and present these as gifts to Vets staying at New Beginnings, a transitional housing facility for displaced or homeless Vets.

Attention all Military Veterans and Spouses

Friday, January 27, at 9:30 a.m.

SCC Community Hall, Room 3

Veterans and their spouses are invited to the next meeting of the American Legion Post 246. Coffee and donuts will be available at 9 a.m. The program will include items of interest to local veterans and their spouses. Our guest speaker will be Sun City Center’s Community Resource Officer Deputy Jeff Merry. His presentation will cover the many scams that presently are aimed at elderly citizens, in particular our residential veterans. Info: call Paul Wheat at 813391-7309 or email at “pawheatjr@aol.com”.

Sun City Center residents and new volunteers for ‘Seniors in Service’, Marge Hartig-Specht and Shawna Wainwright, honored two WWII Vets at Freedom Plaza Assisted Living by presenting them with a Stars for Our Troops memento. Embroidered stars were cut from a discarded flag, and then placed in a baggie along with a meaningful message which pays tribute to Veterans’ service.

Silver Ospreys Squadron

The Silver Ospreys Squadron #64 of the Association of Naval Aviation held its November meeting recently. Our speaker at the meeting was Art Jorgensen, Senior Chief Photographer’s Mate, USN (Ret.) His topic was the US Navy A3J Vigilante aircraft, later designated the RA-5C.

While serving in the Navy for thirty years Art was deployed on three aircraft carriers as well as other Navy ships. He described the strategy of the “Nuclear Triad” of USAF intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), USAF bombers capable of delivering nuclear bombs, and US Navy submarine-based Fleet Ballistic missiles (FBMs). In this context he described the reasons for the development and deployment of the A-3J Vigilante nuclear-capable, supersonic, carrier-based bomber. With the eventual deployment of submarines that carried ICBMs the A-3J morphed into the RA-5C photo reconnaissance aircraft. A total of 167 of the A3J and RA-5C aircraft were built.

The Vigilantes served capably during the Vietnam War. Part of the story of the RA-5C is that even though the Vigilante was fast and agile, 19 RA-5Cs were lost in combat during the Vietnam War: 15 to anti-aircraft fire, three to surface-to-air missiles, and one to a MiG-21.

Fall 2022 Veterans Quilt Presentation at Kings Point

On November 14, 2022, the Kings Point Quilters presented 19 handcrafted quilts to nominated veterans from all branches of military service during our Fall Veterans Quilt Presentation. Each recipient spoke about their experiences in the military and how their time in the military influenced their life choices. Thank you for your service from the KP Quilters to: Sonny Anderson, Bret Babbitts, Dr. Kenneth Barringer, Bill Degnan, Mary Ellen Ginnetti, Leonard, Jones, Lewis Marion, Bob Reader, Patrick Shaw, Norman Thurston, Richard Yager, Bob Black, Russell Krieger, Ken Sudduth, Ted van Aulen, Ron Clifton, Roger Hayes, Tom van Nelson, John Fanello.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance at Freedom Plaza

Wreaths Across America Tribute

By Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter DAR

Four daughters of the Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution attended the Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Tampa Veterans Cemetery presented by The American Legion USS Tampa Post 5 Families. The ceremony was well attended by several different organizations. Attending from our chapter were Gretchen Chapman, Dolores Stieper, Kay Adkins and Vicki McDonnell.

Stars for Homeless Vets

Marge Hartig-Specht and Shawna

Clarence Padgham (Padge), age 105, originally from NY, served in the US Army Air Corps.

Joseph Paskon, 93, originally from NJ, served in the US Air Force.

Authentic Mexican Food on Wheels and More

By Andrea L. T. Peterson

About six months ago, a young man with an entrepreneurial spirit decided to lease an empty parking lot on the west end of Big Bend Road. There he parked his own truck, Loli’s/Wally’s Food Truck, and leased out some of the space to other independent individuals with a variety of food options. Now there is a thriving little food court on wheels located at 6200 Big Bend Road. In addition to Wally’s “authentic Mexican food on wheels,” there is Kay’s Kitchen offering Chicago style fried chicken and fish (with authentic Chicago style mild sauce), La Calle: Latin Fast Food with assorted Latin options as well as hamburgers, and the final truck offers a broad range of authentic Peruvian selections. We stopped by just after Thanksgiving and only Wally’s was open (the others are all open now). Owner and chef Wally Gomez has quite a few faithful followers. We were amazed at the “regulars” lining up for lunch that day. I spoke

with Joseph Millerd who lives in nearby Riverview who comes often with his sons who love Wally’s, and a couple of women (Keshia and Cailin) who come from north of Big Bend off of 301 regularly. Rave reviews from all! We ordered a chicken quesadilla and a burrito. Our two meals were about $20; portions were very large and good. They have Mexican Coke and other Mexican sodas as well as regular coke and each dine “in” order (a half dozen picnic-style tables are set up under cover order, suitable rain or shine) is served with chips and salsa.

Wally Gomez in his truck and regular Wally’s customers.