News of Sun City Center July 2023

JULY

Sun City Center

CA SCHEDULE

4 4th of July Breakfast

SCC Community Hall

Neighborhood Gardeners and Their Gardens

By Gezil Andrews

On one of my recent weekly bicycle rides, I cut the corner on Victoria Woods Drive to stop and relish the beauty of the corner garden I often stopped to see. The garden fully encompasses the side, front and conservation land behind Don Erickson’s home. I have stopped and chatted with Don many times in my first year here in Sun City Center. I’m now in year two. I love the bench between his house and Irina Davis, his neighbor, and an accomplished gardener, across the street.

I headed back out to the road to look at the yard that abuts Don’s. Paul Kennedy, the homeowner, was working outside and was delighted to talk to me about his garden and how his interest had been fueled by Don’s passion.

I was curious about how many people

had planted areas in the conservation land. In the past, in other parts of the country, my experience was that most counties don’t appreciate the conservation land being dug up and personalized, but Paul told me that they

Gardens continued on page 2-CA.

Room – 1:00 p.m.

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

1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd, SCC Phone: 813.633.3500

Hours – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., M-F sccboard@suncitycenter.org

Website: suncitycenter.org

Information Center: 813.633.4670

Reality hit home when I recognized the bench now has a memorial plaque on it recognizing Don’s life. Don passed away earlier this year. In fact, the house has already been bought by a Michigan couple. It appears the home sold quickly because of the unique landscaping.

I spoke to neighbor, Fern BockstaeI, who brought a plant to Irina to “heal.” It seems that Irina sometimes takes in wounded plants and brings them back to life. Irina chooses not to take credit for this because of the privacy she cherishes in her home, but some neighbors consider her the right person to bring a plant back to life. You will note many single plants in single pots in her yard and the conservation area, drawing in the sun and shade.

SCCCA July 4th Breakfast –Don’t Miss It!

his best festive gear to the 2019 breakfast, where he served coffee and brought smiles to many breakfast guests, including equally well-attired birthday girl, K.C.

Come one, come all to SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd., on Tuesday, July 4, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Scan the code with your smartphone to find us online. www.newsofsuncitycenter.com

for a delicious breakfast and fun with all your friends and neighbors. The Sun City Center Community Association brought back the popular breakfast this year, and they are offering a heaping plate of pancakes, sausage, eggs, and toast, as well as juice and coffee to wash it all down—all for only $7. Plus… free entertainment by the SCC Organ Club and the Front Porch Pickers. The July 4th Breakfast is open to all SCCCA and Kings Point members and their guests. Bring $7, and they’ll save you a plate!

Family Fun Day – July 4!

The SCCCA is thrilled to be hosting again this year the Family Fun Day for the 4th of July. You can look forward to musical performances by The Jenny & Joey Duo and the 3-Dom Band. This event takes place at North Campus at the gazebo area. You can bring your chairs and golf carts and enjoy a wonderful afternoon together. The event will run from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m., and is open to all SCCCA members and guests with a guest pass.

We will have a fantastic food truck vendor as well. You can purchase hot dogs, hamburgers, fresh cut fries and many more menu options! You know we didn’t forget the free ice cream; you can snag a refreshing treat while supplies last at the event as well. You won’t want to miss this wonderful event hosted by the CA’s entertainment department.

Jim Schwartz wore

Chilton, and her husband, Steve.

POA President and Community Gardner, Ron Jones.

Ron and Julies art work. Notice the working trowels laid down to get back at it when the sun cools off!

can’t destroy conservation land, but rather enhance it. And that we do in Sun City Center. The land thrives in the care of these gardeners.

I basked in the fragrance of orange plants, Japanese Glory bower and red plants. I learned that the red plants are Ti plants, a tropical perennial native to the Polynesian Islands. It is also known as the Hawaiian Ti plant, as it was brought to Hawaii by settlers. These plants have beautiful purple foliage and many uses, including ornamental, medical, and food.

Paul encouraged me to stop and see the garden of their POA President, Ron Jones, right around the corner. When I arrived at the house on my bike, I was greeted by Nettie, Ron’s five-year-old dog. Ron, hearing Nettie yip at my arrival, came out to meet me. He was dressed in his gardening attire with a water hose in his hand.

Yes, Ron would be happy and eager to show and tell me about his wife, Julie, and their garden. It seems Julie is the creative element, and Ron functions more in the engineering and technical side. He is putting in a water system off their household to support the water needs of their garden. This is quite a commitment when you see the size of their landscaping endeavors—this is not a small garden!

Ron had made a ceiling fan into a windmill. The windmill is proudly displayed in the garden. He is presently building a potting stand out of two pallets.

President’s Report

By Ron Clark, CA President

Thank you again to the CA membership for the 85% approval (by votes cast) at the May 17 election for the Master Plan for the Central Campus Upgrade. The Board has been working diligently on agreements to continue the progress of this project. On June 14, the Board unanimously approved awarding a contract to Pi Architects for the Design Services of Phase 1 and a contract to Appono Consulting, LLC for construction monitoring of Phase 1. Details are in nearby articles, but the contracts are for the entire Phase 1 (1A & 1B) and include the new 11,050 sqft. Applied Arts Building, 7,100 sqft. reimagined Rollins Building, demo/renovation of two existing structures, and the new pool and plaza area.

Both the above companies have ownership ties with OutsideIn Consulting who developed the master plan. Darren Azdell led the OutsideIn effort, and he will also lead the Pi Architect effort. So, we have retained that commonality and knowledge of CA members’ needs in the architecture stage. Once again, the Long Range Planning Committee will seek membership input into this design phase to ensure we develop plans that meet the needs and desires of the majority of the membership. The goal is to have a membership vote on the Phase 1 design and construction costs at the December 6 election. This is an aggressive goal, and we will need everyone’s help in providing timely and constructive feedback in order to achieve it. The funding for the design and construction costs are from the Capital Fund, financed by the $3,000 Capital Fund fee for home purchases by new residents, and are not from your dues.

On another subject, Clublink closed the Sandpiper Golf course on June 1. I asked their CEO (John Finlayson) to provide an update letter regarding their SCC plans. The letter can be found online at “www. suncitycenter.org/clublink” but the key sentence is: “At this time, we are evaluating our options but have no formal plans for the Sandpiper course.”

Finally, I wish everyone a happy Fourth of July as we celebrate the birth of our country and the freedom and wonderful opportunities we enjoy. You can start your celebration by attending the Community Breakfast at Community Hall from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. and having a great meal for $7. Follow that with the CA pool party from 11 to 3 p.m. with a food truck and music at the gazebo. The SCCCA is truly a great place to live!

Julie, not to be outdone, dried, and painted a beautiful queen palm. It is also mounted so that it can easily be seen in the garden. The garden takes on the aura of an outside art gallery.

In their garden among a variety of plants, are two pineapples. There is an assortment of thriving plants most greenhouses would love to have. Oh, the time it takes to take care of all this! Ron and Julie do all the planting, weeding, and decorative touches in the POA cul-de-sac. Neighbors share in the cost, but Ron and Julie lovingly put in all the elbow grease.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Memory Bench with Plaque.

Gardens continued from page 1.

Fan made into a windmill.

That’s Quilling Not Quilting

By Kai Rambow

The colors are brilliant; the creations are amazing. Quilling is several hundred years old with a small number of artists today. Julia Macek has made quite a splash with her work since she arrived here not too long ago.

Quilling involves taking paper strips, molding them into the shape you want and gluing them. Macek glues hers to canvas, which is unique to her. She also combines words and images using her calligraphy skills to form the words. Macek has won several awards and was commissioned to create the artwork for a book cover.

Like so many talented people here, Macek only started a few years ago. If you’d like to see her work, she’ll be one of three artists featured at the Art Club starting June 7.

A Smooth Ride Along Del Webb West

Before After

LRPC Update

The Board of Directors has unanimously voted to move forward with hiring Pi Architects as the architectural firm for design and costing of Phase 1A and 1B of the Master Plan. Outsidein is an affiliate and local component of Pi Architects. Pi Architects is a multi-discipline design firm specializing in active adult communities. Pi Architects team includes experts from design disciplines, architecture, landscape, interior design, and engineering. Pi Architects is one of the largest and most dynamic senior living firms with offices in central Florida and Austin, Texas. Outsidein/Pi Architects have been designing active adult communities for over 25 years.

Appono Consulting, LLC has been hired to be the construction monitor/ owner’s representative (SCC CA) for Phase 1A and 1B of the Master Plan. Appono Consulting, LLC specializes in complex active adult living projects. They will monitor and enforce the construction contract, facilitate communication, and report to the Board of Directors on progress, budgets, and schedules. They will also communicate the coordination and sequencing needed to keep the community operating through construction and minimize disruptions. Please check out our new partners on their respective websites, www.piarch.com and www.apponoconsulting.com.

LRPC and Pi Architects have been seeking input from Clubs and will do our best to implement their requests.

We want to thank everyone for their input over the past year and a half. We have a lot of work ahead of us and couldn’t have gotten this far without community input.

Pi Architect will be working on the following over the next few months:

• Schematic Design Phase – floor plans and exterior elevations

• Design Development Phase – engineering and mechanics of the design

• Construction Documents Phase – permit and construction plans and specifications

• Procurement Phase – permit acquisition, general contractor selection, and negotiation

• Construction Phase – let the building begin!

During the procurement phase, PI and Appono will be assisting the Board to review multiple General Contractor bids. The Board will select the successful bidder and then the CA membership will vote on approving the construction cost before any construction phase. The goal is to have this approval vote on the December 6 election ballot. LRPC will keep you updated via email blasts and always keep an eye on our website for new information.

Board Meeting: Boardwalks and Master Plans

By Mike Lee

The June Community Association Board of Directors meeting was highlighted by an announcement that Dr. Ken Barringer and his wife Joan have donated $50,000 to the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay and the Sun City Center Future Facilities Fund for the purpose of helping to fund the planned boardwalk around Swan Lake. The foundation has added $5,000 to this donation, bringing the total donation to $55,000. Due to their generosity, if built, the boardwalk will be named the Barringer Boardwalk. The board thanked them for their generosity.

When Sun City Center resident Michael Goynes traveled down Del Webb West, he was challenged in his scooter by two grassy, uneven patches near the Tillers and Toilers entrance. Michael reached out to our SCCCA Board for help and was rewarded with new smooth concrete sidewalks.

“I am so grateful for Debbie Caneen and Gary Bratt to have stepped up and gotten this sidewalk project completed. It has been a dangerous issue for wheelchairs and walkers for over 20 years. The sidewalk at West Del Webb Blvd abruptly ended at the Tillers and Toilers driveway and, to navigate around it, one would have to either go into the street or up on a neighbor’s yard to get past the unfinished ‘sod’ section. After years of attempting to get the sidewalk finished, this team of compassionate CA people have ‘got-rdone’! Now, thanks to them, you can walk or roll all the way from Atrium Dr. to Haverford Ave. without any major issues. Although several tripping issues remain due to sidewalk seams that need to be ground down, at least there are no

more “dead ends” that I am aware of. If you see an issue with something in your neighborhood (like an unfinished sidewalk) - report it to the CA so it can be addressed," said Michael Goynes.

“I’m enjoying working with my other Board members in accomplishing things that benefit our members. When I called fellow Board Member Gary Bratt for help, he immediately jumped into action and contacted Hillsborough County,” commented Debbie Caneen.

“The SCC CA has a very good working relationship with Hillsborough County. As the CA Board County Liaison, once I was made aware of the situation, I contacted Assistant County Administrator Kimberly Byer and Director of Engineering and Operations Joshua Bellotti. They immediately recognized the needs of our handicap membership and expedited the repair,” Gary Bratt said.

If you see a problem with a sidewalk or road, know that Director Bratt has most likely already reported it to the county. If you see something that could be a safety concern, please do report it.

Board President Ron Clark gave an update on the progress of the Master Plan. The board approved contracts with PI Architects and Appono Consulting to develop design plans and construction costs for the project. The approval for this phase was voted on by residents on May 17, and passed with more than 85% approving the project to move into this phase. Clark said, “The board has been actively focused on continuing progress on this initiative. Membership input will be involved in the design phase, similar to what was done with the Master Plan. It was very helpful and appropriate.”

The cost that was approved for this phase is $306,565.20. The vote by residents on whether to approve funding for construction is tentatively scheduled for December 6.

Community Manager Lyn Reitz announced that the previously announced project to replace pavers and steam clean the indoor pools will take place from July 31 until August 21. The indoor pools and locker rooms will be closed during that time period. She said that accommodations are being worked on to move some

activities that normally take place in the indoor pools will take place in the outdoor pool. She also provided an update on the pickleball and volleyball projects. The EPA has approved plans for wetland mitigation, which will allow the volleyball court upgrade to move forward. It is hoped that the county will issue a permit for the project in the near future. There will be temporary closures due to clearing of land that will take place. Repairs are being made under warranty to some of the sidewalks, and to court 2, which has some issues with standing water. There is some continuing work that hasn’t been completed yet at the pickleball courts, such as lighting, wind screens, and so on. This work should not cause any disruptions to play.

The board approved a breast cancer fundraiser for the Moffitt Cancer Center to take place in October. Corporate Secretary Debbie Caneen said, “In March, we joined our partners at Kings Point. We raised over $50,000 for research for colon cancer. In October, being breast cancer awareness month, we wanted to do another thing to bring the community together.”

The board also approved to allow clubs to hold up to four fundraising events per year, one per quarter. Also approved were proposals to allow Freedom Plaza to fund membership for an additional 50 residents, while paying full dues, currently $324 per year. The board also approved funding to replace the dividing wall between the Armstrong and Heritage rooms in the Atrium, and they approved funding for the CA Concert and Dance Series for the 23/24 season. Reitz reminded the board that these are profit making events, and that funding will be offset by ticket sales.

Some of Macek’s award winning work.

Julia Macek working on a piece for the Art Club exhibition starting June 7.

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.

Japanese Art of Silk Embroidery Club

The club is a year-round club. We stitch all through the summer in air conditioning. The snowbirds are all gone, so we have plenty of room and light. We meet Monday through Thursday in the Arts and Craft building next to stained glass; 9 to noon.

History Society of SCC

The History Society has almost achieved their goal to pay for the Historic Marker. Although donations have been very generous we are still short $500 to pay the balance owed on the marker. Further donations of any amount would be greatly appreciated with the hope of collecting the remaining amount needed when the marker is completed and ready to be delivered. No donation is too small. We hope to have the marker in our possession by year’s end with a planned unveiling followed by a small reception for the community attendees in late January. To make a donation just place it in an envelope marked History Society HISTORIC MARKER FUND and drop it at the Community Association Building front desk.

Metaphysical Society

Wednesdays, 10 to 11:45 a.m.

951 N. Course Lane

July 5 • “Holistic Approach to One’s Lifestyle” presented by Chef Shari Leiterman.

July 12 • “Sound Healing Therapy” will be presented by Rev. Millie Milagros.

July 19 • “Self Healing With QiGong” by Daline Dudley.

July 26 • “Mediumship and Astrology--the Soul’s Connection” presented by Rose Claire.

The mission of the Metaphysical Society is to inspire and empower others to explore and discover their highest expression of spiritual self-awareness. Info: Roger 813-326-3697, Ken 650-245-6979, or Nancy 813-541-1945. Zoom link is available by email at “metaphysicalsociety@gmail.com”.

SCC Lapidary Club

Swim Dancers Looking For New Members

Synchronized swimming is great exercise for the body as well as for the memory. If you are comfortable swimming the length of the indoor pool, we can teach you the figures. Membership is open to ladies who are CA Members and KP members with a SCC Gold Card. Wear your bathing suit, bring a towel, and come join the fun. The Swim Dancers practice on Monday and Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. and on Friday mornings at 7:30 a.m. Info: Barbara Rezner at 860-841-3282.

No Weights or Machines Required

can be a form of physical exercise. After all, you must pull out the chairs, load them to the meeting place, move the chairs together, park the golf cart to use as your seat, etc. That’s exactly what this group of neighbors do each week. They are all from the Golden Pond area. The group began meeting together when Covid began and they couldn’t meet in people’s homes. Penny, one of the current members, started the group.

Kris Dierks calls the group a nest of news. “We learn about different states… we aren’t all from New Jersey! We talk about children and grandchildren,

Back porch or lanai sitting couples like Donna and Clinton Gabrielson from Atlanta, Indiana enjoy their “people, car and bird watching, squirrels scaling the tree” activities chair. On occasion they will share an iced tea or lemonade and a slice of something yummy.

DID YOU KNOW that sitting outside, with friends or observing nature, can reduce blood pressure, lower heart rate, and decrease cortisol levels. When we are outside our body slows down, helping us feel peaceful and calm. Our minds work in a similar way. Spending time outside improves mood and reduces feelings of anxiety.

By Paula Lickfeldt

The SCC Lapidary Club was incorporated in 1983. The word lapidary comes from the word “lapidarius” which means stone cutter. Thus, the word relates to the art of cutting, grinding, faceting and/or polishing stones and gems. While those arts continue, the club has added wire wrapping, bead stringing and weaving, metalsmithing, Viking knit, enameling, polymer clay, Kumihimo, chain maille, lost wax casting and more. All of the work takes place in the club’s well-equipped classroom.

The Lapidary Club, located in the Arts and Crafts building on Cherry Hills Dr., offers a schedule of weekly classes to their 130 plus members via a monthly newsletter. President Lin Opgenorth is proud of the high quality works of art they create. In addition to the weekly classes, once a month the club hosts “Wednesday at the Club,” a social gathering offering food, fun and a group project. Two additional gatherings occur each year: a recognition banquet and a holiday celebration Members pay $10 per year for membership. Classes are free but the materials used to make a chosen project are the responsibility of the attendee. Project costs vary, but members learn skills that can be applied to a number of

projects. Cori, an 87 year old gentleman who recently became a member, has discovered great joy in making earrings, bracelets and rings for his grandchildren and nieces. Age and lack of experience are not a hindrance.

The Lapidary Club offers a showroom, staffed by club volunteers, that is stocked with unique creations made by club members using a variety of gemstones, crystals, sterling silver, gold and other quality materials.

Customers purchase gifts for themselves or others, certain of product quality at a reasonable price. Income from the sales offsets the cost of materials, purchasing and maintaining equipment and to fulfill the club’s mission of contributing to worthy organizations. Last year the club gave $10,000 to local nonprofits, In the last ten years the club has donated more than $60,000 to organizations such as Samaritan Services, Life Path Hospice/Charity Care, Alzheimer’s Respite Group, SCC Emergency Squad, SCC Security Patrol, SCC Christmas Fund, SCC Library, SCC Hardship Fund, Disabled American Veterans, C.A.R.E. and My Warriors Place .

For more information about the Lapidary Club, visit the showroom store any Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 10 a.m. until noon (summer hours).

Movie attendees must present a current SCCCA ID Badge, a SCCCA Guest Card or a Kings Point Gold Card to attend. Dates and time may be changed if necessary. Theater capacity is limited to 145 attendees per the Hillsborough County Fire Code. July 10 • Family Camp •1 Hours, 51 Minutes

Two polar-opposite families find themselves sharing a cabin for a week away at camp. With the highly coveted camp trophy at stake, dads Tommy and Eddie end up lost in the woods after a comedy of errors and mishaps.

Starring: Tommy Woodard, Eddie James, Leigh-Allyn Baker, Gigi Orsillo, Cece Kelly

Genre: Comedy, Family

Rating: PG - strong language, crude sexual references

July 24 • Fall •1 Hour, 47 Minutes

For best friends Becky and Hunter, life is all about conquering fears and pushing limits. But after they climb 2,000 feet to the top of a remote, abandoned radio tower, they find themselves stranded with no way down. Now Becky and Hunter's expert climbing skills will be put to the ultimate test as they desperately fight to survive the elements, a lack of supplies, and vertigoinducing heights in this adrenaline-fueled thriller co-starring

Jeffrey Dean Morgan.

Starring: Grace Caroline Currey, Virginia Gardner, Jeffrey Dean Morgan

Genre: Thriller, Suspense

Rating: PG 13 - strong language, intense peril, bloody images

Wednesday at the Club

of Sun City Center & South County

Sister Communities Bring Navy Veteran to Wall of Honor

Freedom Village at Brandywine residents recently heard from retired Navy Rear Admiral Larry Chambers about his time in the Navy, followed by a lunch at the Freedom Village campus. Chambers is a resident of Freedom Plaza located in Sun City Center, Fla., which is a sister community of Freedom Village. The two communities worked closely together to bring Chambers to Pennsylvania for residents to hear about his Naval experience and ensure he was appropriately honored for his service.

Following the presentation and lunch, Chambers and Freedom Village residents visited the Washington Memorial Chapel at Valley Forge Park, where Chambers was surprised with a plaque on the Veterans Wall of Honor.

“It means the world to me to receive this prestigious honor,” said Chambers. “Looking back at my time while serving, there were extreme highs and lows, but I

wouldn’t trade it for anything. My experience made me into the man I am today and introduced me to the great community of veterans throughout our great

nation, like this one at Freedom Village.”

“Our country wouldn’t be what it is today without our American heroes,” said Danielle Geyer,

executive director at Freedom Village. “It was a pleasure to surprise Larry with a plaque on the Veterans Wall of Honor. It serves as just a small token for his selfless and unwavering commitment to our nation.”

Chambers is an accomplished veteran, starting with his efforts in The Vietnam War. On April 29, 1975, as commanding officer of the USS Midway and the first African American to do so, Chambers helped rescue thousands of Americans and South Vietnamese from Saigon. On April 30, he directed his crew of 3,000 seamen to corral the estimated 4,000 people who had been airlifted from Saigon to the ship, ensuring they were examined, fed and safely transported to other nearby carriers if needed.

Chambers entered the Naval Academy in 1948, becoming only the school’s third AfricanAmerican midshipman, and then only the second to graduate from the Naval Academy in 1952.

Memorial Day

By Kai Rambow

No two annual Memorial Day ceremonies are the same. There is always a slightly different feel each time. This past Memorial Day, I encountered a few residents having their own quiet contemplation. They had taken advantage of our own veterans’ memorial. Each was by themselves, quietly giving each other space and time.

The official ceremony, hosted at Kings Point this year, was filled to capacity before starting. People wanted to take some time over a long weekend to think about those who served our country.

Catching Master Deputy Merry by surprise, County

By Bob Monahan

The Sun City Center Pickleball Club held its first in-house Pickleball tournament on its eight new courts. On June 10, approximately 50 players participated in the Star Wars theme tournament using a variation of, ”May the Courts be with You.” There were five games per session. Session one winner was George Wolfe, and Donna Cabral was the second session winner.

Commissioner Michael Owen presented a special certificate to Merry acknowledging and thanking him for his service to Sun City Center. Don’t worry, Merry indicated he isn’t going anywhere.

Mr. and Mrs. Chambers, FVB residents and employees, LCS employees, and others.

L to R: Pickleball Club Board Members Claire Coulston, David Smith, Dennis Rosett, David Pollett, David Baker, Curt Diedrick. Not in picture Tom Hopfensperger.

The advancing of the colors is performed every year and this year was beautifully done by members of the HCSO.

Hillsborough County Commissioner Michael Owen shortly after presenting a surprise certificate to Master Deputy Jeff Merry.

A Bird’s Eye View of the New Pickleball Courts By John Wakeman

The Editor’s Corner

Family and Freedom

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

For more than three decades, my extended family and many friends have been gathering at the beach for a week around July 4. It’s both a time to get away, and a de facto family reunion. Everyone local shows up, and extended family from other states drive down to enjoy the time together in the sunshine. These days, four generations are represented at these gatherings.

My mom stays with us in a condo overlooking the shimmering blue-green Gulf of Mexico. My niece and nephew rent the condos below us for their respective families. Their five kids pal around with my two younger boys, making quite the fun group. Other family and friends come and go during the week. It reminds me of days gone by, when my eldest son and his cousins – all of whom are grown now – used to hang out on the same beach together, trying to catch waves, seeing who could stay up the longest on the skim board or gallivanting around the island, the same way my brothers and I did at their age.

Thinking about that takes me all the way back to when my family lived on the island. Zooming around in my brother’s little skiff, fishing off the pier, riding our bikes hither and yon, or playing pinball up at the soda shop. We spent a lot of time on the beach, too. Building sand castles, dodging nosy seagulls, shore fishing with sand fleas when we couldn’t get shrimp. Getting sand in our sandwiches and not minding a bit. Catching waves builds up an appetite. It was an innocent, idyllic time, and I’m happy that I’ve been able to share a little bit of that fun and freedom with younger generations.

The island is a lot busier these days. Most of the small block homes have been replaced with short-term rentals, and a lot of the cool beach shops are now “chez chic” bistros and boutiques. There are a few holdouts, for which I’m grateful. I make it a point to take the younger ones there, so they get a taste of what island life was like when we really ran on island time.

Cruising around to all our old haunts, passing by the shiny new places all the tourists see on social media, I’m reminded that, as much as things change,

they also stay the same. One example of this is the annual Fourth of July pirate parade. For decades now, multiple generations of my family have gathered beneath the welcome shade of a massive banyan tree to watch the parade go by as we—and thousands of our fellow Americans along the route— celebrate our independence together. It’s red, white, and blue as far as the eye can see. And the sidewalks are filled with little patriots armed not with muskets awaiting the Redcoats, but with water guns awaiting the AMI Privateers, a local fundraising group made up of some of the most generous pirates around. They cruise down the main drag in their tricked-out pirate ship, Skullywag, tossing beads and spraying overheated parade goers with welcome and refreshing streams of cool water.

The Privateers ship is escorted by local first responders, a Krewe of Jeep enthusiasts, and a motley collection of local businesses who all love to get in on the freedom and the fun.

After the parade, it’s time for barbecue burgers and hot dogs, before we all converge on the beach about sunset for one of the best fireworks shows anywhere. The sky flowers bloom up and down the length of the island, as they have for decades now. As I look at who is sending them up, I see grown-up versions of the kids who marveled at them years ago, young adults who have assumed the duties of their dads, many of whom recline in beach chairs and watch the colors blossom across the sky. It’s a celebration, as well as a literal and figurative passing of the torch. If I look close enough, I can see the pride and joy in those dads’ eyes. It mirrors my own, when I see my eldest and his older cousins playing with their own kids on the beach where they grew up, playing the same games, waving sparklers while wearing glow necklaces so we can pick them out in the dark.

My own younger boys will soon be at that strange age where they’re too old and also too young to play those kid games, so I’m happy to see a new generation coming on strong: whooping with joy as they chase away the seagulls, daring to dash into ankle-deep surf, and building castles in the sand. In a few years, they will be the ones skimming boards and catching waves… and, one day, I hope they will be pulling their own kids in wagons to the shady spot beneath the banyan tree, before flipping burgers on the grill, and passing out sparklers to the next generation celebrating family and freedom in a place that has changed a lot over the years… but, when the family comes together, still holds a lot of the old magic.

ED’S NOTE: I wanted to take a minute to thank Howard Horowitz of HO HO Buys Cars for his help selling my truck. Howard came right to my house, made me a great cash offer, and I didn’t have to deal with any of the typical nonsense that happens when you’re trying to sell a car. If you have a vehicle that you are thinking about selling, give him a ring at 941-270-4400.

Looking For Second and Third Generations Living In SCC

By Paula Lickfeldt

On Sunday May 7, 2023, the History Society hosted a gettogether in the Florida Room of the Atrium Building. Fifteen people attended to tell the story of how they came to be living in Sun City Center. This SCC History project was started in 2011 in conjunction with the SCC 50th celebration. Sun City Center is very unique in the fact that so many people are living here because they came to visit a relative or friend, liked the community and bought a home here.

If you or a family member (grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles or cousins) are a second or more generation living in SCC, the history society wants to know. A form to fill out can be obtained at the Information Center.

Fill out the form and drop it off at the CA office or send it to Dee Kelly 1610 Vincennes Dr. A notebook will be kept of the participants, with various family stories shared.

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

Gayle Fortin at Cruise Planners offers the Bucket Trip of a Lifetime! Memorials of World War II

Featuring the 80th Anniversary of the D-Day Landing

from $4,999 including air and home town group pickup!

An unforgettable journey of discovery and remembrance awaits you as you travel between London, Normandy and Paris on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day. Explore London’s connections to World War II during a city tour focused on The Blitz. Cross the English Channel, retracing the parallel journey nearly 160,000 courageous Allied troops took on June 6th, 1944, as they set out to liberate Europe from the Nazis. Immerse yourself in the history of Normandy’s D-Day Landing Beaches and visit the Normandy American Cemetery. Visit Saint-Mère-Église, the first French town liberated from the Nazis and learn about the brave paratroopers who parachuted into Normandy on the night of June 5–6, 1944. Conclude your journey in Paris, the City of Light with a festive dinner cruise along the Seine River.

Day 1: Friday, May 10, 2024, Overnight Flight

An unforgettable journey of discovery and remembrance awaits you on the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

Day 2: Saturday, May 11, 2024, London, England – Tour Begins

Welcome to London. Discover the city’s rich historical relationship with World War II. This evening, get a taste of contemporary British fare as you meet your fellow travelers for a dinner highlighting London’s culinary renaissance. (D)

Day 3: Sunday, May 12, 2024, London

Uncover London’s myriad connections to WWII on an expert guided tour. Step back in time to September 1940 when the city was at the receiving end of the German “Blitz”. London would be reduced to rubble, but not Londoner’s, who “Kept Calm and Carried On.” View St. Paul’s cathedral and take in iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of parliament. Retrace Sir Winston Churchill’s steps on a walk by the Cenotaph and Downing Street, before returning to your hotel for an evening of leisure. (B)

Day 4: Monday, May 13, 2024, London – Portsmouth

This morning, journey through the English countryside to Portsmouth. This city played a critical role in the preparation efforts for Operation Overlord. Generals Eisenhauer and Montgomery chose Portsmouth for their military headquarters and its dockyards now host The D-Day Story Museum, which you will visit this afternoon before checking into your hotel for a 1-night stay. (B,D)

Day 5: Tuesday, May 14, 2024,

Portsmouth - English Channel Crossing – Caen, France.

In the early hours of the morning* board a ferry and cross the English Channel. As you breathe in the salted sea air during your 6-hour sailing, reflect upon the parallel journey nearly 16,000 courageous Allied troops took on June 6th, 1944, as they set out to liberate Europe from the Nazis. Your ferry docks in Ouistrehiam, which housed on of the biggest bunkers of the German “Atlantic Wall” defense system. A coastal drive takes you by Sword Beach, (British Landin Site) to Juno Beach, where Canadian soldiers sacrificed their lives among the deluge of air attacks, naval bombardments, and land offenses. Arrive in Caen in the early evening and settle into your hotel for a momentous 3-night stay.** (B,D)

Day 6: Wednesday, May 15, 2024, Caen – D-Day Landing Sites

This morning, explore The Caen Peace Memorial Museum dedicated to providing a comprehensive history of the D-day landings and Europe’s post war transition. Then, set out for Arromanche-les-Bains to view the remains of the Mulberry Harbor, one of the greatest engineering feats of WWII, allowing the Allies to establish strategic bridgeheads on D-Day. Later this afternoon, stop at the German Artillery Battery of Longues-sur Mer, featured in The Longest Day. Then pause at a local farm for a stroll through their apple orchards and a taste of traditional cider. (B)

Day 7: Thursday, May 16, 2024, Caen – D-Day Landing

Today, immerse yourself in the history of Normandy’s beaches – the site of the largest amphibious invasion in history. Pay your respects to the 9,386 servicemen and women who rest at the Normandy American cemetery, Visit two U.S. landing zones of the invasion of Normandy: Omaha Beach and this afternoon, Utah Beah. Discover Pointe du Hoc, a strategic German battery that claimed the ultimate sacrifice of 135 brave men from the 2nd and 5th Ranger Battalions and where craters from cataclysmic bombings occupy the landscape to this day. At the Airbourne Museum, learn the unique history of paratroopers in Sainte-MereEglise, the first French town liberated from the Nazis Return to Caen in the early evening (B)

Day 8: Friday, May 17, 2024, Caen – Giverny – Paris

Head south to Paris this morning. Your drive through the rich pasturelands of Normandy takes you to the village of Giverny. Here, let the art scene leave its impression on you with a visit to Monet’s country home.*** Stroll through the colorful living work of art that is Monet’s garden, where you will see the source for the artist’s inspiration, including the setting for his iconic Waterlilies. Then, set off to Paris, the French capital that was under German occupation from 1940 to 1944. In the late afternoon, check into your hotel located in the suburban La Defense business district. As your day comes to a close, make the most of an evening of leisure. Or, enjoy an optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin**** for a champagne-flowing can-can kicking, music driven night at the cabaret. (B) Day 9: Saturday, May 18, 2024, Paris

A local expert leads you on a journey back to the time of German occupation and the puppet government of Vichy. From the Vel d’Hiv, Hotel de Ville, Les Invalides, Pantheon and the Luxembourg Gardens to Le Marais, see the sites that tell the story of liberation of Paris and when life was under the Nazis. Tonight, bid au revoir to your fellow travelers and to the City of Light while gently floating down the Seine on a dinner cruise. (B,D) Day 10: Sunday, May 19, 2024, Paris – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close and your flight home.

Trip of a Lifetime!

PLEASE NOTE: Book Now Rates Valid Until Sept. 11, 2023, valid on air inclusive packages only.

School Supply Drive

We are beginning our school supply drive for the Wimauma Boys & Girls Club. Many supplies are needed for our over 100 in need students at the Boys and Girls Club. Please drop off the supplies at the Sun City Center Emergency Squad (720 Ray Watson Dr) or the Sun City Center United Methodist Church (1971 Haverford Ave, Sun City Center, FL 33573) between now and August 1. Thank you!

SCC Men’s Club Ladies’ Day Luncheon

The Women’s Chorus under the direction of Jeff Jordan entertained the Sun City Center Men’s Club at their annual Ladies’ Day Luncheon on May 17, 2023, at the SCC Community Center. The program featured a selection of songs from the group’s Spring Concert entitled “You Must Remember This...The Women’s Chorus Goes to the Movies.”

The program included two songs from the “Sister Act” movies, “Joyful, Joyful” and a medley called “Sister Act.” Both selections were directed by Jeannie Weiss and accompanied by Jeff Jordan. Two soloists performed, including Paula Spangler-Klein and Janet Warren. A small group of singers from the chorus performed Mr. Sandman. The program was well-received by a large and appreciative audience.

This was the final performance of The Women’s Chorus for the season, but they will be available to perform for area groups who are looking for an entertaining package of music later in the fall. Contact President Pam Greer at 404-790-9746 for more information.

Keep the Flags Flying

The US Flags are flying again on State Route 674 commemorating Memorial Day, Flag day and the 4th of July. When Hurricane Nicole blew through Sun City Center with 75 miles an hour winds in November 2023, 45 flags were damaged and destroyed according to the United States Flag Code. In addition, 50 items needed to mount the flags required replacement. Since 2016, the Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter DAR’s responsibility is to “Keep the Flags Flying.” Please help us recoup these expenditures and continue this patriotic community project. Donate to the Flag Project Fund. Make your check payable to: Flag Project and mail to Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter, Post Office Box 6343, Sun City Center, FL 33571-6343.

CAHT Delivers Rescue Backpacks

Volunteers from the Campaign Against Human Trafficking (CAHT) delivered 30 rescue backpacks to the Tampa Bay Human Trafficking Task Force at the St. Petersburg police station this week. CAHT’s mission is to actively support the fight against human trafficking. Rescue backpacks are provided to the survivors of human trafficking who very often are rescued with only the clothes on their backs. So far in 2023, 116 rescue backpacks have been delivered to the Human Trafficking Task Force and other organizations that provide safety and assistance to survivors, 719 over the past five years.

Community Foundation Supports Squad

The Community Foundation Tampa Bay recently made a grant to the Emergency Squad for $132,000. These funds are specifically for new computer laptops to be used for patient care reports; new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) and the Squad’s new digital billboard.

The new computers, known as “TOUGHBOOKS” will replace the ten-year-old laptops the Squad has been using. The old laptops were failing and could no longer hold a charge; many of the touch screens had quit working; and repairing them was no longer an option. The new equipment is military grade, able to withstand being dropped even into water. The Squad put the new TOUGHBOOKS into service immediately. They will serve us for a long time,” said Mary Christiano, Assistant Chief of IT.

The new AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) will be delivered this summer. These AEDs are critical to supporting the success of CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). They will be available for use on each of our ambulances and within the Squad buildings. “Our new community billboard will be multipurpose,” said Chief Mike Bardell. “We expect to announce events for many of our community volunteer organizations as well as Squad events. I hope it will be a source of useful information to our residents.

Community continued on page 6.

L to R: Linda Bennington, Ceil Permenter, Ann Fenimore, Major Nathaly Patterson and Detective Cerino. CAHT’s Victim Services Chair, Bonnie Doll, took the picture.

Community continued from page 4.

Hurricane Prep for Pet Families

Sunday, July 9, at 1:30 p.m.

Kings Point North Clubhouse, Waterside Room

Free educational event presented by Sandra Yosha, DVM, PhD Consultant Veterinarian for Pet Harmony and Azza Diasti-Kennedy, DVM, MBA Pet Harmony, Founder and CEO, bring your questions.

Kindred Spirits Meeting

It’s a pool party and you are invited! 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 next meeting is on July 18 at 3:30 p.m. at the Nantucket Pool 1975 Nantucket Drive. Theme is summer salad potluck. Bring your best dish, bathing suits, and dancing shoes because we are throwing a party. Info: Michelle Mason at 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

Next Galaxy Bridge Luncheon July 6

Galaxy Bridge Luncheon will meet for lunch and bridge at the United Methodist Church’s LEC Building at 1971 Haverford Avenue on July 6, 2023. Members will meet at 11 a.m. and lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The lunch price is $18. For reservations or cancellations, call Kathie at 410-879-1112 or Annetta at 813-633-3277. If you leave a voicemail, one of them will call you back to confirm. This group is open to all women of Sun City Center women, Freedom Plaza and Kings Point gold card members who are interested in bridge.

Star Samaritan

S-Selfless; T-Trustworthy; A-Accomplished; R- Reliable Meet Toni Sheppard, the Star Samaritan for the 2nd Quarter of 2023. Toni and her husband moved to Sun City Center in 2013 from Virginia Beach. Toni has volunteered at Samaritan Services since 2019 and is the Wednesday receptionist. In addition to Samaritans, Toni is very active with the Sun City Center Travel Club. She will tell you this keeps her young. She enjoys helping and volunteering which brought her to Samaritans.

Daughters of the American Revolution

On May 23 and 24 the Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter, NSDAR headed to the Ruskin Memorial Cemetery where we cleaned and placed flags on 72 veteran’s headstones. There are many more yet to do and we will be scheduling more work days throughout the year. Info: “DARcgmb@aol.com”.

The Sun City Center Woman’s Club has supported Meals on Wheels for many years with funds and coordinating volunteer drivers to deliver meals. Susan Royal (right), Woman’s Club coordinator of the program, along with co-chair Rosita Rodriguez-Barton, presents a check to Samaritan President Pat Rapach and Board Member Kirk Warren. To learn more about the club go to the website at “sccwomansclub.org”.

SCC Photo Club Offering Free “Christmas in July” Portraits

By Fran Beeson

Looking for a Christmas gift for the kids, need a picture for your holiday cards, want a professional quality family portrait, or just would like to update your Facebook page, SCC Photo Club is offering an exciting opportunity to get the jump on the holiday season with a free studio portrait by professional photographer James Corwin Johnson. Portraits can be individuals, couples, or families. Only one portrait per party of up to two individuals will be provided for free per slot. Additional slots may be purchased for larger groups. Pictures will be taken in the Photo Lab on July 28 and 29. You must sign up in the Photo Lab located at 1203 N. Pebble Beach Blvd. next to the SCC Bowling Greens for an appointment beginning July 3. Lab hours are 9 to noon Monday through Thursday. Appointments will be available from 1 to 4:40 p.m. on a first-come, first-serve basis. Sign-up will last until July 26 or until all slots are filled. A $5 deposit will be required when you sign up, but will be returned when you arrive at your photo session. SCC CA IDs, KP Gold Cards, or Freedom Plaza Access Cards must be presented to sign-up. Any questions, call 813-634-3105 for assistance.

Roamin’ Oldies Honors Handsome 1955 Chevy

A bright yellow-and-white restored, repowered and updated 1955 Chevrolet 210 shown by Tom Gelok of Palmetto is the Roamin’ Oldies Car Club’s June cruiser of the month.

After many years with a 1932 Ford, Tom was ready for a show car with more space and comfort, without giving up power and performance. He found the answer in that ’55 Chevy. The one-time grocery getter is now a force to be reckoned with—now powered by a blueprinted 383-cubic- inch V8 engine, 4-speed automatic transmission and 9-inch Ford rear-end gearing. It also gives him a whole lot more driving comfort and convenience, with an all-new interior, power steering, power disc brakes and air conditioning. For information about The Roamin’ Oldies, call Frank at 856-3738497.

This restored, repowered and updated 1955 Chevrolet 210 owned by Tom Gelok of Palmetto is the Roamin’ Oldies cruiser of the month.

PERFORMINGARTS

NOTICE: Each community and club in Sun City Center and Kings Point has specific rules about membership and attendance. Unless specifically stated or posted, most venues, meetings and events hosted on the Community Association campus and in Kings Point require attendees to bring their SCC CA or KP ID or come with a resident member. When in doubt, contact the club in question - not the venue or association - prior to arrival. Thanks.

Faith And Freedom Patriotic Cantata

Sunday July 2, at 8:30 and 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. UMC of SCC, 1971 Haverford Ave.

Come and celebrate our legacy of liberty and the foundations of our faith throughout this program of patriotic selections. The presentations are free.

DANCING

Come Dance With Us

Sundays, July 9 and 30

Doors open at 6 p.m.

Kings Point Clubhouse Veterans Theater

Live music! All welcome to join. Call ahead to be placed on the visitor list at the gate. Info: Rosemary 513-258-8238 or Ken 513-5828449.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday, July 15, doors open at 6:30 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, S. Pebble Beach

“Mad With Power” will provide our entertainment with their classic rock sounds from the 70’s thru today! Tickets will be available at the door the night of the dance, and at the Atrium Kiosk on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, July 10, 12, and 14, from 10 to noon. The cost is $5 for members/$10 for non-members. Memberships are also available at both locations for $20 per person, per year. Dress casual, bring nonperishable food items to donate to Our Lady’s Pantry. Info: For further information: “jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com” “bgocek1@gmail.com”.

SCC Line Dancing Club

The Sun City Center Line Dance Club has a new step class every Tuesday at 5:50 p.m. You will learn the different steps involved in line dancing. This is a great class to take before the 6:30 p.m. beginner class. It will get you on your way if you’ve never line danced before or you need a review. Community Hall on S. Pebble Beach Blvd. All SCC CA residents, Freedom Plaza and KP gold card members are welcome. First class is free with all others $2 per class. Become a member and pay only $20/year for all classes.

Senior Social Dance Group

RSVP ONLY, $6 at the door

July 4 (Wear patriotic outfits) and July 18

These dances are always open to Sun City Center and Kings Point residents and their guests limited to a maximum of 72 guests. Dances are held in the parish hall of St. John Divine Episcopal Church, 1015 Del Webb Blvd East. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Our entertainer is Thor Stevens and his sax. Dressy/casual attire, no shorts or jeans. RSVP: Judy Furman, 813-606-1233 or “judyannfurman@gmail.com”.

The Women’s Chorus Kicks Off Another Year

The Women’s Chorus is under the direction of Jeff Jordan, and they rehearse weekly at the Sun City Center United Methodist Church during the months of September through March. They present two concerts a year, one at Christmas and one in the spring. They are also available to entertain local groups in the area.

Women who are interested in joining The Women’s Chorus are invited to audition with the director on August 30, 2023, at SCCUMC at 10 a.m. Returning chorus members can register for the season and pick up their music on August 16, at 10 a.m. at the church. Fall rehearsals will begin on Wednesday, September 6, at 9:45 a.m. Info: Pam Greer at 404-790-9746.

Seeking Vendors For Timely Treasures

Arts & Crafts Fair At UMC

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Ave., is accepting vendor applications for its Arts & Crafts Fair to be held on Saturday, November 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Only handmade and one-of-a-kind arts and crafts are allowed. Booth fees start at $25 and optional table rental is available. There will be both indoor and covered outdoor spaces.

Applications accepted through July 15 and must include two photos of your work; vendors will be notified by July 31 of acceptance into the show. For more information and an application, email “TimelyTreasuresCraft@gmail.com”.

the SCCCA and we are enjoying every minute of it. If you have not joined us yet, we host our Summer Bandstand concerts once a month and our next one is on July 19 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. featuring The Divebombers Band at 953 Cherry Hills Drive. What better way to enjoy our beautiful summer evenings than with your neighbors and great music.

As our families begin to visit more during this season don’t forget to grab their guest passes from the CA office at 1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd. from 8 to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Also, our next CA summer pool party is set for Saturday, August 12. So, mark your calendars now because we had a great time, it is from 1 to 4 p.m.

Please feel free to contact Tiffany Rivers, activities director at 813-642-2001 if you have any questions.

Tiffany Rivers

& Julie Ramsey Produced by: The Pelican Players Community Theater

By Peggy Burgess

Around the corner from the Administrative Offices of Freedom Plaza is yet another business office. Its “business” is aiding Freedom Plaza residents in an infinite number of ways, from addressing personal computer problems to arranging residents’ memorial services. It is the office of R.O.C (Retired Officers Corporation) and the question frequently asked is, “What does R.O.C have to do with Freedom Plaza, an open-toall, comprehensive retirement community?” The answer is, “nearly everything”, for were it not for R.O.C. Freedom Plaza might not have been built. This has to do with an earlier version of R.O.C, the R.O.L.C (Retired Officers Land Corporation), a far-sighted group of retired military officers living in the Tampa area and desiring to build a retirement community nearby. They located the perfect plot of ground (140 acres adjacent to Sun City Center), the right development company with which to form a partnership (Freedom Group, Inc.) and the rest is history—over 30 successful years of it. Although Freedom Plaza has had several different owner-managers over those years --presently it is L.C.S (Life Care Community Services)— R.O.C has maintained its mutually beneficial partnership with all of them, represented by its own on-site office and its own staff, both financed by R.O.C.

Serving R.O.C as its president and managing the Freedom Plaza R.O.C Office for the past 19 years is non-Freedom Plaza resident, Corena Fristad, wife of a now-retired U.S. Air Force service member. She and her staff of two are overseen by the R.O.C Board of Directors who assist in myriad ways in carrying out the R.O.C. mission, which reads, in part: “to assist Freedom Plaza in providing a coordinated and seamless system of services," and, “to provide continuous services to the residents of Freedom Plaza.” The ROC office’s opendoor- policy assures that those services extend to all Freedom Plaza residents, regardless of any connection to the military. Fristad and her small staff work daily on a multitude of complementary tasks such as: notarizing documents; assisting residents with Medicare and Tricare claims or filling out other governmental forms. They also arrange patriotic ceremonies held at Freedom Plaza, among them an annual Memorial Day Service.

R.O.C. extends its services, through Freedom Plaza, to all military veterans in Sun City Center by furnishing bus service to and from airports for transportation related to Honor Flights, those special excursions carrying veterans to Washington, D.C. to view the nation’s war monuments. For information call the R.O.C. Office at (813) 6421275

Emergency Squad Mannequin Donation

By Mike Lee

The SCC Men’s Club has donated two pediatric computerized mannequins and five pediatric backboards to the Emergency Squad. The existing backboards were about 20 years old, and were equipped with outdated technology and were very cumbersome, according to Mike Bardell, Chief of the Emergency Squad. The new equipment costs approximately $7,200, so the donation was substantial.

When discussing the need for the pediatric equipment in the community, Bardell said “our task is to try to make sure we’re prepared for all scenarios.” There are circumstances, such as children falling in pools or choking while visiting. “Children have a different respiratory system. They usually have a higher pulse, and they will go down quicker,” he said. The squad already had computerized adult and infant mannequins, but didn’t have any adolescent mannequins. “We saw a need there, and they have come so far with computerized mannequins. We felt like there was no substitute for actual training. Seconds count. I can tell you that if it’s your grandchild, that’s pretty important” that the responders have the proper equipment and training.

The squad typically supports

all of Sun City Center. They also will go to surrounding areas when requested by Hillsborough County. “We will go wherever they want us,” Bardell said. Bardell said that some girl scouts recently visited the squad, and got some hands-on training with the new mannequins. Although they can’t be certified yet, he said that the training might help them to provide aid before first responders arrive if an emergency occurs.

The Emergency Squad is able to offer CPR training to interested groups. They have already done training for both Kings Point and SCC CA staff. If your club or HOA would like to host training, contact the Emergency Squad. The training will give some handson exposure to CPR. “There’s no substitute for hands-on training,” Bardell said.

Our Monthly Travel Meeting will be on vacation for June and July and will return on Tuesday, August 1st to the main Kings Point Clubhouse.

We will be bringing you a jam-packed year of travel presentations featuring River Travel, Incredible Land Tours, Luxury Cruises, and Wonderful Ocean Voyages! Watch this space for our future schedule!

ATTENTION CLUBS, NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS, RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS, AND ALL TRAVEL LOVERS!

We specialize in Group travel! Out team of travel planners has years of experience putting together incredible travel packages for groups… Large and Small! Are you a leader that can put together a travel group! Group leaders can travel FREE! Call us for information! Call 813-434-4222 and Speak to Gayle for your Amazing Group Travel options!

NORTH AMERICA WATERWAYS

SEPT. 1, 2023 • 8 Days/7 Nights • Viking Octantis

Thunder Bay overnight • Duluth • Soo Locks Transit, Scenic Cruising Mackinac Island • Milwaukee

From $6195 per person Balconies!! Lots of Perks!!

SOUTHERN CARIBBEAN ARUBA!!

SEPT. 30, 2023 • 9 Days/8 Nights • Carnival Horizon

Miami • Aruba • Curacao • La Romana • Amber Cove • Miami

From $709 per person!! Unbelievable !!

TRANS-ATLANTIC BARCELONA TO TAMPA!

NOV. 13, 2023 • 15 Days/14 Nights

Royal Caribbean Enchantment of the Seas

Barcelona • Malaga • Ponta Delgada • Nassau • Tampa

From $526 per person!!! Includes Perks! Unbelievable !!

ANTARCTICA

JAN. 29, 2024 • 23 Days/22 Nights

• Holland Oosterdam

Bueno Aires overnight • Montevideo • Punta del Este

• Puerto Madryn • Port Stanley • 4 nights Antarctica on board

• Drake Passage • Glacier Alley • Beagle Channel • Ushuaia

• Strait of Magellan • Punta Arenas • Canal Sarmiento

• Amalia Glacier • Chilean Fjords • Puerto Chacabuco

• Puerto Montt• San Antonio

From $6109 per person Balcony !!! Unbelievable !!

EUROPEAN RIVER - LYON TO ARLES

MAY 25, 2024 • 8 Days/7 Nights • Emerald Liberte

Lyon • Beaune • Lyon • Tournon sur Rhône • Viviers

• Avignon • Aires overnight

From $5910 per person Balcony Suite!!!

LOTS OF PERKS!! Unbelievable !!

MEDITERRANEAN

AUG. 24, 2023 • 10 Days/9 Nights

Royal Caribbean - Odyssey of the Seas

Civitavecchia • Naples • Athens • Kusadasi • Santorini

• Chania • Civitavecchia

From $2201 Balconies per person!! plus airfare!

• Gayle Fortin

TRAVEL

Bearizona

By Kai Rambow

A jaguar was gently eating, like a house cat, from the hand of the keeper. No dangerous stunts were involved. The keeper was feeding through the bars by placing her hand flush with the bars. I stood two feet away. If I had done nothing else that day, it would have been a great day. Being that close to a rare, big cat was a thrill. This was one of many highlights at Bearizona.

If you’re going to the Grand Canyon, Bearizona is a worthwhile stop enabling you to see up close grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, bison, deer, badgers, foxes, and otters. There are two parts of Bearizona: a drive through portion and a walk through section.

Drive-Thru

You cannot get out of your car, but most of the distances are short. You’ll have plenty of wonderful views. If you felt you missed something, you can drive through again.

Early in the morning there were few cars. Moving around animals or cars was easy with plenty of space. I imagine there are times when it does get busy; a little bit of patience will go a long way. The dirt road is wide enough for you to pull to the side and not block anyone.

On my second drive through, a reindeer came right up to my

window. I could have reached out and touched it, but I followed the posted rules. Nevertheless, it is always a great experience to get so close to an animal.

Walk-Thru

When you’ve finished the drive, you can park your car to go to the visitor center or do the walking portion of this wildlife park. Once again, you’ll get plenty of close up views of the animals. Be sure to ask questions. I ended up seeing the jaguars because I did not see them at first. A very helpful employee found out if I waited 10 minutes they would be coming out soon. Fun moments included seeing a badger and watching the otters playing.

In the visitor center there is a restaurant, if you’re so inclined. Overall this is a great addition to any Grand Canyon trip. It is possible to see wildlife in Arizona, but I’ve met numerous tourists who’ve never seen anything. You can get a good preview on the website. It’s easy to navigate once you’re there.

In both sections of the park you’ll see some animals we rarely get to see, you’ll see them up close and you’ll see some favorites as well.

Tips for a Great Trip

When to Go: Like the Grand Canyon this is open all year. Hours vary slightly, so check before you go. Suggest arriving

early to beat the crowds. My first two hours it felt as if I had the park to myself.

Where to Stay: This is right on the outskirts of Williams. If you choose Williams to stay for the Grand Canyon, then this is very close by. Consider adding a half day to visit this park. You’ll be glad you did.

Remember: As long as you stay in the park, you can drive through or walk through multiple times. Want to see a favorite or new discovery again? You can.

Bearizona Wildlife Park

1500 E Route 66 Williams, AZ 86046

(928) 635-2289

www.bearizona.com

There are two jaguars here. I was fortunate enough to see them be active early in the day.

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.

These two bucks were testing each other even though it was not mating time.

In the drive through part this bear made its own bed in the branches.

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

National Senior Games Tennis

Sun City Center Tennis Association member Nancy Williams is headed to the National Senior Games July 11-14 in Pittsburgh, PA. Williams qualified for her 9th Nationals with a gold medal in the 75-79 singles bracket at the PA State games where they have a summer home. In 1999, she qualified in the 50-55 bracket to play at her first nationals at Disney Wide World of Sports.

SCC Archery Tuesdays Social Shoot

The Sun City Center Archery Clubs weekly Tuesday “Social Shoot” meeting time will be 6:30 p.m. at their range. SCC Community Association members and Kings Point Gold Card holders are welcome to attend the club’s weekly “Social Shoot”. All CA members and Kings Point Gold Card holders are eligible for free archery lessons from club instructor Jerry Anderson, call Jerry at 330206-7048. For archery club questions not instruction related, call Mark Erickson, club president at 810-407-1768.

Champions of Senior Basketball

This group of 20 basketball players all qualified for the state championships in December. They all won gold medals at the recent Polk County Games. They won in the 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, and 75 divisions. In tournament play the games are 3-on-3 style. For more information about how to join go to their website at Southshorebasketball.com. No one is turned away and the club practices at the Ruskin Recreation Center.

Sunsetters Honored At Luncheon

SCC Sunsetters competitive women’s tennis team was honored at the annual ALOT banquet, held at the Rusty Pelican in Clearwater. The ALOT league celebrated its 20th year anniversary with 200+ attendees. We received the fall 2022 champion award for Division A. In the photo, L to R (Front): Marti Turocy, Melody Smith, Linda Bacon (sub), Edna Carlin, Deb Zieg and Helene Peterson. (Back): Tarja Kostin, Lee Greenlee (Captain), Melody Sullivan and Paige Haggbloom. Not pictured: Janet Hoffman and Phyllis Albritton.

SED Benefit Tournament

SED Benefit Tournament was played on June 3 to support the National Championship, which will be played here Oct. 29 through Nov. 4. 1st Place SCC Mary Chamberlin, Gary Persinger & Paddy Lennon.

BOOK REVIEW

They Called Him Pale

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

They called him Pale Male. It wasn’t meant to be unkind, it just best described him. He was young, always alone, and if he knew they called him Pale Male, he didn’t seem to notice or care. No one approached the loner. Clearly, he preferred the idyllic setting of New York’s best-known park. Central Park, likely named for its location, could have as easily been named for the role it plays in the lives of many who lived in the surrounding area. Many visited the park just for its beauty, the plethora of wildlife and the opportunity to be amongst others, yet alone.

It was a while before a few park regulars noticed that the youth, Pale Male, was no longer alone. He wasn’t a loner after all, he just had never before found what he believed was “the one.” And found her he had. They weren’t exactly pouring over the classified section of the NY Times, but it was clear they were in need of a place to share, become more “familiar,” and hopefully find “happily ever after.”

The “lovebirds” became the talk of the park. Their courtship was so public, yet private. The park regulars wondered where Pale Male and his “friend” went when they weren’t in the park. When they were gone for long stretches, the regulars worried. When one or the other was seen in the park alone, they wondered, “do you think they’re still together?” They were obsessed with the couple!

They found swanky digs, just three floors down from Mary Tyler Moore’s apartment and across the way from Woody Allen’s. Well, found isn’t exactly the right word. It was more like “create” or “build.” You see, Pale Male and his mate were a strikingly handsome pair--of Red-Tailed Hawks whom the park regulars— bird watchers, all—were thrilled to see and watch. The regulars missed nothing in the developing relationship between the two, even getting into Mary Tyler Moore’s apartment to observe the nest and make sure it was neither disturbed nor removed.

At one point, Pale Male appeared once again to be

alone. Speculation about what could have happened to his mate was plenty, but there was no answer to the question of her mysterious disappearance.

After a respectable period of time, Pale Male gave up on his first love. She wasn’t coming back. So, as widowed males are wont to do, he began to search for another mate. Fortunate to find true love once, it was amazing that Pale Male had found it twice!

He was a fortunate fellow, indeed. Not only did he find love twice, his first love had not abandoned him. She had been wounded, healed and rehabbed, and sent on her way, at which point she returned to Pale Male in Central Park!

If you love a good, delightful love story, if you love the quirks of wildlife (and those addicted to watching them), and especially if you want to know the fate of Central Park’s lovebirds, I guarantee you will love this book—“Red-Tails in Love: a Wildlife Drama in Central Park” by Marie Winn.

Note: after the conclusion of

the book, there is a list of birds (as well as butterflies) seen throughout the year in Central Park. There is also a calendar indicating which species migrate and fly over or stop to rest in the Park when it is time to go south for the winter.

Portrait at 60

By Suzanne S. Austin-Hill

Just turned sixty… doom and gloom, illness and death, storm clouds loom. Just turned sixty… tick, tick, tick; time waxed quickly, not much wick. Just turned sixty… I’m surprised! What tried to kill me made me strong and wise. Just turned sixty… Quite a thrill!

Life is good from the summit of this Hill.

FAITH &service

Interfaith Social Action Council Grant Workshop

The Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center (ISAC) is pleased to announce that our Fall Grant Cycle will begin accepting grant requests from August 1 thru September 1, 2023. Application forms can be downloaded from the ISAC’s website at “interfaithcouncilscc.com”.

With that in mind, the Interfaith Council’s Grants Team will be offering a short workshop covering the grant application, and determination process. If you represent a 501(c)(3) or a school in our area, Hillsborough County, south of the Alafia River, you are encouraged to attend.

The seminar will be held at Prince of Peace Catholic Church’s Conesa Center at 1 p.m. on July 27. The address is 702 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center. If you are planning on attending, please

Good News From Samaritan Services

The Samaritan Services Alzheimer’s/Dementia Program is pleased to announce we are currently offering 60 free hours of in-home care to Sun City Center residents. This was made possible from a grant given to us from The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. For additional information please call the Samaritan office at 813634-9283 and speak with either Jim Butner or Connie Faison, the 2 Coordinators, or visit us at 1207 N. Pebble Beach Blvd, MondayFriday, 9 a m to 4 p m.

Nearly New Christmas in July Sale

During the month of July, the Nearly New Shop will be holding a Christmas in July special sale. The shop has a special holiday department filled with Christmas ornaments, lights, décor and collectibles as well as decorations for other year-round holidays too. Additional departments will offer jewelry, women’s and men’s clothing, purses, décor, housewares and craft supplies with special store discounts.

The Nearly New Shop, 1515A Sun City Center Plaza (Rear), is open in the summer for shopping on Saturdays from 8 until noon. When people shop at the Nearly New Shop, they are helping generate proceeds that go towards grants and scholarships made through the Interfaith Social Action Council of Sun City Center. Donations of new or gently used goods are welcome on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8 until 1 p.m.

Hope Fund Fifth Graders Graduate

Six fifth-grade participants in The Hope Fund programs celebrated their graduation to middle school at a party honoring them May 18 at the Wimauma Civic Center. As students at either Wimauma or Reddick elementary schools, they will enter Beth Shields Middle School on its opening day in August. The Hope Fund’s after-school educational and enrichment programs support Wimauma migrant children in K through 5th grade. These programs help them learn, grow and have fun by providing mentoring, tutoring, reading and instructions in art and other life skills development.

The Hope Fund for Children is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization founded by Miles in 1995. If you are interested in volunteering for the program or want additional information, call 813-590-8448, or visit “thehopefundscc.org”.

Hope Fund graduates from left: Edwin Cayetano, Deimi Ordonez, Michael Perez, Bryanna Walle, Emerson Perez and Liliana Diaz.

are required for treatment decisions, when symptoms do not match system readings, when you suspect readings may

County Events

Provided by Debbie Caneen, Director Admissions, Sun Towers

WED. JUL 5, 12 - CANCELLED

THERAPEUTIC TAI CHI FOR HEALTH

WED. JUL 5 - LADIES WILD CARD

POKER CLUB 6:00 - 8:30 p.m. in the Royal Room in the Atrium Building for a real ladies night out. Come join us for a wild night of poker fun as we play easy to learn card games with penny and nickel bets and all kinds of wild card entertainment. Only $3 for dues. Must be a CA member. ID required Call Jan at 352-4222918.

THU. JUL 6, 13, 20, 27 -

PARTNERS IN NETWORK –BUSINESS REFERRAL MEETINGS

Every Thursday 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center. Our members develop strong long-term working relationships based on trust and proven results. Questions? Call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990.

THU. JUL 6 - CRAFT BEER & WINE

CLUB OF SUN CITY CENTER

“Fermenting Fanatics”

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? We gather to discuss craft beers and wines, enjoy tastings as a club and learn about the process of fermenting along with participating in field trips! Questions? Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

FRI. JUL 7 - COMEDY NIGHT AT THE FIREHOUSE WITH Comedy Night: Dean Napolitano 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE, Ruskin FL. Comedian Dean Napolitano has performed at the Firehouse before! He will be joined by other comedy friends, to be announced.

SAT. JUL 8 - LA LUCHA RETURNS

TO THE FIREHOUSE CULTURAL

CENTER 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE, Ruskin FL. La Lucha returns to The Firehouse! La Lucha is a Tampa Bay based trio of three best friends from three different parts of the world: Colombia, Mexico, and the United States.

WED. JUL 12 - VETERANS

HISTORY PROJECT 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. by appointment only at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. If you are a Veteran or know Veterans who would like to share their stories, please call Chris Clermont at Sun Towers to schedule your interview time at 813-634-3347.

THU. JUL 13 - CENTER 4LIFE

LEARNING – Tropical Evening Dinner Party Cruise

4:30 p.m. To register for the trip:

Tropical Evening Dinner Party Cruise, Starlite Calypso Breeze, John’s Pass, St. Petersburg, $73, register online www.sccumc. com/4lifelearning, or call 813634-8607.

FRI. JUL 14 - LOW VISION

SUPPORT GROUP – SPONSORED BY THE MEN’S CLUB OF SCC

1:00 - 2:00 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. SCC. For those who are blind or have low vision, Envision glasses provide an unparalleled level of independence and freedom. While we will have a speaker, we encourage sharing among members. Contact Michelle Mason 813-492-8920.

SAT. JUL 15 - MEMPHIS RUB

BAND AT THE FIREHOUSE CULTURAL CENTER 7:30 - 9:30

p.m. at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE, Ruskin FL. The Memphis Rub Band is a four-piece band from Florida’s Suncoast area. They perform a blend of blues and rock with a bit of R&B and funk mixed in.

MON. JUL 17 - 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. Returning this month due to popular demand will be Jonathan Dychko, MD who will share proper nutrition and diet considerations for those with Parkinson’s. 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 this support group! Complimentary valet parking available at entrance. For additional info, call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990.

TUE. JUL 18 - 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. Helen Keller, a blind and deaf woman, was an inspiration for Lions to aid those individuals truly in need. Questions or to RSVP: Lions Club Membership Chairperson and a Lion with over fifty years of

service: Lion Bob Jenkins cell 586295-5135 email “rwj045@gmail. com”.

TUE. JUL 18 - THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF ESSENTIAL TREMORS SUPPORT GROUP 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. The International Association of Essential Tremors (IETF) has appointed Gezil Andrews, Sun City Center resident as the Support Group Leader (SGL) for this new Support Group. Questions? Call Gezil Andrews at 309-660-1091.

WED. JUL 19, 26 - THERAPEUTIC TAI CHI FOR HEALTH 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Tai Chi has been proven to increase strength and balance! This class is offered EVERY Wednesday. FYI, For more information, contact Debbie Caneen at 813-892-2990.

THU. JUL 20 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Sun Towers Outpatient Therapy Dept. Did you know one in four adults aged 65 and older falls each year? Are you at risk? This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Call to schedule today, 813-331-3035.

THU. JUL 20, 21, 22 - PELICAN PLAYERS PERFORM “DINKING HABITS” Evening shows on July 20, 21 and 22 at 6:30 p.m. Matinee show on July 22 at 1:30 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior. All are welcome to the Kings Point Veterans Theater, North Clubhouse, 1900 Clubhouse Dr. Tickets: $16 evening/$13 matinee available for purchase at Kings Point Box Office 9-4 M-F. Tickets are also available at the door. “www.pelicanplayersscc.org”.

MON. JUL 31 - LET’S TALK BREASTS 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. We will share options for those who have had to deal with breast cancer, lymphedema, prosthetics, orthotics, and upper and lower compression needs. You will be able to handle custom items such as compression bras, bathing suits, camisoles, headwear, products tailored just for you. Refreshments will be served. RSVP. FREE Valet service at entrance. to RSVP, call Debbie at 813-892-2990.

“Help Feed Families” A Success

By Bob Monahan

The second Saturday in May was the date of a successful collaboration between the NAKC letter carriers and volunteers from the South County area. The volunteers represented various volunteer organizations including the Rotary, the SCC Men’s Club, the SCC Basketball and Volleyball Club and the Sea Glass Church. It is estimated that over 80,000 pounds of food were donated to food banks and pantries in the local area.

Jim Schwartz wore his best festive gear to the 2019 breakfast, where he served coffee and brought smiles to many breakfast guests, including equally well-attired birthday girl, K.C. Chilton, and her husband, Steve.

SCCCA July 4th Breakfast – Don’t Miss It!

Come one, come all to SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd., on Tuesday, July 4, from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. for a delicious breakfast and fun with all your friends and neighbors. The Sun City Center Community Association brought back the popular breakfast this year, and they are offering a heaping plate of pancakes, sausage, eggs, and toast, as well as juice and coffee to wash it all down—all for only $7. Plus… free entertainment by the SCC Organ Club and the Front Porch Pickers. The July 4th Breakfast is open to all SCCCA and Kings Point members and their guests. Bring $7, and they’ll save you a plate!

Summer Circus Spectacular

By Kai Rambow

The summer heat is here. So is summer fun. The best part: you can have fun without breaking into a sweat. The Summer Circus Spectacular is running now through August 12.

This one hour show is an amazing and fun show that you can enjoy in the lovely air conditioned Asolo Theater at The Ringling. The history of the circus wintering in Sarasota is a long one. The depth of talent and the connection to the global circus community enables the Circus Arts to get performers from around the world. This year’s performers include Ethiopia and the Caribbean.

After the show, for $5 more, you can visit the circus museums as well as the fabulous miniature circus in the Tibbals building.

Tips for a Great Visit Recommend the first show. That will leave you plenty of time to visit the museums after. You might want to work in your favorite restaurant in the Sarasota area for lunch following the show.

This can be a nice outing for a group of friends, visiting relatives and returning guests of yours. This is held at The Ringling. Go to the main entrance. You can

Tersit Asefa Dersu is the fastest female juggler – you won’t be able to follow the balls. She was a favorite performer; I’m sure you’ll discover your own when you see the show.

purchase tickets online that way you’ll know you’ve got tickets.

Adults $20; children $13.

Summer Circus Spectacular

Until August 12 Tues. – Fri. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sat 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

The Ringling

5401 Bay Shore Road Sarasota

www.ringling.org/events/ summer-circus-spectacular

JULY 1–28

Meet Leo

When Leo was diagnosed with a brain tumor, it was devastating news for his parents. But they knew he was in great hands at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. From the start, Child Life Specialists worked with Leo to keep him comfortable, helped him overcome the stress and anxiety of the hospital surroundings and kept him happy. “The support we’ve received here is irreplaceable,” said Leo’s mom. “It’s frightening and difficult, but the Child Life team found ways to make the hospital seem like not such a scary place.” Leo now walks into St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital with confidence and looks forward to visiting his “friends.”

Be a bright light for children like Leo during what can be an overwhelming time in their lives. Making a donation during the Christmas in July event is a way to give kids comfort and help them cope while they’re in the hospital.

You can help: StJosephsChristmas.org

Leo Medulloblastoma patient, age 3

SOLUTIONS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 16

Shemushi Nasreen, MD

Khushi Dhaliwal, MD

Amy Kwok, MD