News of Sun City Center October 2022

of Sun City Center

CA SCHEDULE

OCTOBER

3 Board Workshop

Rollins Theater - 9 a.m.

Zoom ID: 811 4879 3110

Passcode: 892415

12 Board Meeting

Rollins Theater – 9 a.m.

Zoom ID: 852 4534 5596

Passcode: 739707

18 Club Leaders Meeting

Florida Room – 10 a.m.

Zoom ID: 819 7946 1724

Passcode: 490659

24 CO-AP Meeting

Caper Room – 2 p.m.

26 Membership Meeting

Community Hall – 3 p.m.

Zoom ID: 872 9681 2971

Passcode: 202197

31 Board Workshop

Rollins Theater, 9 a.m.

Zoom ID: 865 6597 2077

Passcode: 500988

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

Long-Range Planning Committee Seeks Community Input

By Bob Sanchez

On September 8, the Long-Range Planning Committee (LRPC) conducted two focus group sessions in the Rollins Theater for residents’ comments on three potential community improvements based on previous survey results: a

walking trail, a gazebo/amphitheater, and a resort-style pool.

Moderator Peter Aluotto displayed a series of Internet images having a wide range of potential features and asked the focus group participants to indicate likes and dislikes on each project, comparing

one slide with another. Participation was lively, with Virginia Bratt and Jeff Williams taking notes on large flip charts. Aluotto said both sessions went well, with 65 attendees in the morning and 55 in the evening.

Although opinions differed widely in design details, the sense of both groups was that, yes, they want the abovementioned projects. “We will convert the results of the focus groups into an electronic survey that the general membership can express their opinion on,” Aluotto said.

A few of the many morning comments included a desire for shade, comfortable walking surfaces, benches with back supports, and a walk-in pool. More complete details will appear in Aluotto’s report.

“The LRPC is currently soliciting and interviewing to hire a professional land planner who will develop a master build plan of all community association facilities,” according to committee chairman Eric Porr. “The master plan will incorporate feedback from community members via focus groups and surveys conducted by the LongRange Planning Committee. Future surveys and renderings will be presented to the community to prioritize capital build projects.”

A Very Special Tea Party

Rosemary Watkins will give you an experience like no other. Their events are always carefully planned, well organized, and executed with lots of imagination, style, and grace. They are always special.

Jayne and Rosemary go above and beyond what you might expect. The parties are always planned on a theme, and the theme starts from the moment you get out of your car and walk up to Jayne’s house, step inside, and find yourself in a world of wonder. The inside of the entire home was decorated with great detail.

Their latest tea party was based on the story of Alice in Wonderland. The story has many characters, surprises, and much detail. As I looked around the house, I noticed the characters were all there. I was in awe of the many decorations and am sure that many hours went into planning and making all the props. The ladies make an excellent team, but each has her specialty. Jayne loves to cook and even prepares items to surprise her neighbors. The decorator is Rosemary, who had taught art classes for twelve years in a Junior/Senior High School. She shops for items that can be used or repurposed for the party. At the same time, she keeps her eyes open for items that might be used at a future function.

When the guests arrived in “Wonderland,” they gathered for a special blue drink, which shrunk them

all so they could jump into the rabbit hole. Once they entered the next room, they were at the tea party, colorfully decorated. Rosemary was playing a game that she created from the movie. It was time to be finished and award the prizes when the food was served. The guests were also dressed up to fit the occasion. The food looked inviting, and the hostesses graciously gave this writer a take-home tea party container.

Jayne’s husband, Alvin, celebrated his 93rd birthday, and family and friends came dressed for the occasion. Jayne and Alvin moved to Tampa from New Jersey, and in 2008 they moved to SCC. Rosemary and her husband, Al, moved here from Pennsylvania to Tampa and to SCC in 2014. The two ladies met here in SCC, discovered their mutual interest, and one could say it was a match made in heaven. An invitation is a coveted item. There is no charge. Talented, creative people like Jayne and Rosemary make SCC a special place to live.

Flu Vaccinations

Walgreens will be in the Sandpiper Room on Wednesday, October 19, from 9 to 1 p.m. to administer flu vaccinations for CA members. No appointment necessary. Please be sure to bring your driver’s license and insurance card.

“Hi, Neighbor!”

Come to the Hi, Neighbor! Event at the Community Hall, 1910 Pebble Beach Blvd., South Thursday, November 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Learn about SCC clubs and organizations, volunteer opportunities and more. Free refreshments!

APPLICATIONS FOR BOARD OF DIRECTORS are available in the CA office

There are three positions open for 3-year terms

January 4, 2023 – January 7, 2026 And one 1-year position open

LRPC Focus Groups

Thank you to the 120 people who attended our Focus Groups on September 8. The intent of the Focus Groups was to share ideas about walking trails, gazebo/ amphitheater, and resort pools. LRPC gained a lot of insight from those that attended. Our next steps are to hire a land use planner, share the community’s input with them, and garner their suggestion(s) for moving forward. Following that we will gather the community’s input via survey monkey.

navigate.

Also

Zoom: ID: 872 9681 2971

Passcode: 202197

Completed applications must be returned to the CA office by 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 5, 2022

Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news

CA Board Increases Estoppel Fee, Approves Painting Contracts

By Bob Sanchez

In its regular monthly meeting on September 14 in the Rollins Theater, the CA Board approved the estoppel fee from $100 to $150, to take effect November 1, 2022. The fee is part of the closing process in a home sale, helping to ensure clear title before transfer. It benefits current homeowners by indirectly reducing annual Community Association dues. The increase will be reflected in Section III of the Policy Manual, viewable at “suncitycenter.org.”

The board also approved two contracts with Munyan Painting, Roofing, and Restoration of Clearwater, both expensed to the Replacement/Reserve account #76401-000-4:

• $65,738 to repaint roofs on the Central Campus

• $19,550 to paint all the structures on the South Campus, including Community Hall

The board also approved the dissolution of the Qigong club as an affiliated CA club.

Director Eric Porr said he expects a decision on

selecting a land planner by the end of September. There will be more focus groups and surveys conducted by the Long-Range Planning Committee.

Treasurer Dave Birkett reported that the Operation Fund has $2,469,069; the Replacement Fund has $2,131,557; the Renovation Fund has $43,381; and the Capital Fund has $4,674,589. There have been 55 home transfers in August, bringing in a total of $165,000. Year-to-date home transfers for 2022 are 446, compared to 418 at the same period last year.

Community Manager Lyn Reitz stated that multiple projects are underway such as the construction of the pickleball and volleyball courts, which should start in October. “Please be aware of your surroundings,” she requested of residents, “and make sure to follow signs and stay clear of coned and roped off areas for your safety. Please don’t move the cones.” People have tracked sticky asphalt into the Atrium.

As of August 31, there were 11,492 residents and 11,592 dues-paying memberships. Residents and vacancies are tracked separately to properly account for CA records and the budgeting process.

Trail Blazing

By John Lampkin

Caterpillars know how to crochet! Well, sort of. “Crochet” is a French noun that means “little hook” and refers to the hooked needles used to craft lacy doily-type textiles. It is also a verb, referring to the process of creating them. Therefore, crocheters crochet with crochets.

Caterpillars have no need for doilies but instead are interested in holding onto foliage for dear life. Like all insects they have six true legs, but they also have a varying number of “prolegs,” short and fleshy stubs used for locomotion. At the end of each proleg is a foot with an array of you guessed it, crochets! These tiny hooks latch securely onto microscopic pores and fissures in leaves.

Despite their twelve simple eyes, caterpillars see no detail and just feel their way along, munching their way voraciously from leaf to leaf. This caterpillar will soon form a cocoon and when safely ensconced inside, will recycle all its organs including the prolegs and crochets. It will then emerge reformed as a stunning polyphemus moth with a six-inch wingspan.

Polyphemus moths do fly in Sun City Center, but only at night so adults are rarely seen although cocoons are spotted from time to time. However, caterpillars of many other species are easy to find on the SCC Nature Trails. All have prolegs with crochets, none crochet doilies.

The trailhead is located opposite North Lake on Del Webb West between Vincennes and Seton Hall. John Lampkin leads walks on the first Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. Join us as we marvel at both the macro and micro wonders of Nature.

Newcomers

List prepared from CA staff data. Report corrections, additions to CA at 633-3500. 8/16 thru 9/16, 2022

Local Adress Name Hometown State/Country Phone

1634 Bentwood Drive Piotr & Halina Manasterski Dundalk Ontario, Canada727-238-9319

804 Bluewater Drive Ralph & Linda Defelice Erie PA 814-882-9173

1310 Bluewater Drive Bruce & Jill Wright Fort Wayne IN 260-241-5906

1822 Columbine Place Tanya Hiatt Bradenton FL 765-228-6322

227 Courtyards Blvd., Apt. 207 Donald & Elaine Croteau Biddeford ME 813-922-4196

713 Cypress Place Ernest Rivera Teaneck NJ 201-522-5945 2339 Del Webb Blvd., E. Patricia Laib Pocono Lake PA 570-498-7192

706 Desert Hills Way Barbara Kuhns Cincinnati OH 513-240-2759

1015 Emerald Dunes Drive Michael & Carole Bedford Kalispell MT 406-871-5041

2419 Emerald Lake Dr., Apt. 111 Bill & Ruth McGuire Knox IN 941-830-9170

1236 Fordham Drive Eduardo Beltran Aguadilla Puerto Rico 813-369-4882 Johnny Vasquez Ruskin FL

1122 Jasmine Creek Court Estelle Wolfman Duncansville FL 813-690-0816

1210 Knights Gate Court Michael & Janinie Vienna Salisbury MD 410-726-7003

1303 Lambdeth Court Edward & Virginia Davidson Goshen CT 860-866-7314

2326 Lyndhurst Drive Cheryl Riley Chicago IL 813-642-0282

1307 New Bedford Drive Susan Vaad Council Bluffs IA 712-310-0562

1322 New Bedford Drive Keith & Deborah Knowles Springfield MA 561-758-5875

1609 New Bedford Drive John & Ann Musacchia Rochester NY 813-833-6378

2136 New Bedford Drive Richard Lodge/Cathi Jones Columbus OH 614-371-4727

1717 Pacific Dunes Drive Terry & Joyce Thomas Vandalia OH 520-723-5955

1228 Pebble Beach Blvd., N. Jeffrey Armintrout Washington C.H. OH 740-572-2992

1903 Pebble Beach Blvd., N. Vicky Patterson Louisville KY 615-415-7908

1916 Pebble Beach Blvd., N. Robert Retter Buena Park CA 657-255-0700

2013 Pebble Beach Blvd., N. D. J. Uppstrom San Antonio TX 210-508-2800

1716 Pebble Beach Blvd., S. Vincent Leduc AL 334-477-6999

2305 Piper Glen Court Marco Belusic/Marie Mirabito Tampa FL 908-370-9431

2031 Prestancia Lane Keith Leiner Big Lake MN 612-453-8185

815 Regal Manor Way David & Tracey Torres New Bedford MA 508-965-9624

828 Regal Manor Way James & Yanna Blackwell

New York NY 813-922-6628

617 Winterbrooke Way Todd Goodhart Littlestown PA 717-465-4378

1713 Wolf Laurel Drive Patrick & Bonnie Robinson Aurora CO 303-378-0964

1925 Wolf Laurel Drive Janet Allen Shelby NC 704-477-5847 Susan Whisnant Apex NC

President’s Report

are away for multiple months during the year), persons that have full-time employment, and renters (full-time renters, by our bylaws, are allowed to be members of our Board). Our present Board has employed persons and a member of the Board that is a snowbird. Another concern raised was that people look to be on the Board because they have an agenda to accomplish and are there for personal reasons. Please review the bios and listen to the candidates in the community meeting, so you are comfortable with the decision of your election choices. Be an informed voter.

By Bob Sullivan, CA President

Time is short, but you still have until October 5 at 3 p.m. to apply for this year’s Board of Director elections. There are three 3-year positions and one 1-year position available. The election for those positions will be an in-person ballot vote at the Sandpiper Room on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., and at the Community Hall on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, 9 a.m.. – 5 pm. Early voting will be available with a drop box in the CA Office lobby. Many people at the board meetings throughout the year have expressed their opinions about how the Board should operate. Here is your chance to be part of the decision-making process.

Many have recently asked about the director positions and why some are allowed to be on the Board. These topics include snowbirds (persons that

When elected and depending on your position, the number of hours varies, including many meetings and committee work throughout the year. Some meetings are unscheduled as there are occasions that Board members need to get together and discuss the direction of the Board on a specific topic. Please review the Candidate’s Biography in the November News of Sun City Center and attend the Meet the Candidates community meeting on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at 3 p.m.

On another note, we still have residents leaving their cars and golf carts unlocked or with the keys in the vehicle. Please lock and remove your keys from all vehicles. Many golf carts have the same key, which is correctable with purchasing a unique key lock. The cost of the keylock change far outweighs the price of a new vehicle.

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.

Swing & Country Dance Club

Free Dance Lessons

Every Friday

6 - 6:30 p.m. Group Swing Lesson

6:30 - 7 p.m. Individual Instructions

Every Second and Fourth Sunday

6 - 6:30 p.m. Group Country Lesson 6:30 - 8 p.m. Social Dance

Students much have an SCCCA card, Freedom Plaza ID, or Kings Point gold card. The lessons will be held in Dance Studio 1. The studio is next to the walking pool in the CA Atrium. For more information contact Cindy Rohr at 630-235-1277.

Everything That’s Old Is New Again

By Ilona Merritt, VP-Computer Club

The Computer Club of SCC is an organization all of us can be proud of. It has always been one of the largest clubs in SCC but is also the largest computer club in the state of Florida. For over 39-plus years, they have helped members of the community, given classes, workshops, and special presentations by knowledgeable people. The club belongs to the APCUG, an International Association of Technology and Computer User Groups. APCUG has member groups not only in the United States but also in Australia and Canada. APCUG is a good source of well-trained speakers as well as occasional articles for the Computer Journal, our newsletter that has won many awards.

However, most clubs use electronic newsletters, and judging for printed newsletters has stopped. The big question has always been why mail out printed newsletters. The answer is simple. Many of our members like to have the printed copy to save for future reference. We now have electronic mailing and snail mail to keep everyone happy.

The good news is that the Computer Club is replacing their computers very soon. Windows 11 is here, and the lab will sport all new computers. Win 11 has extra hardware, which enhances the security. Their SSD ( Solid State Drive) is four times larger than the ones on the present updated machines. Window 10 will reach its end of life in October 2025.

The Computer Club replaces its computers about every ten years.

They keep them in good condition by upgrading regularly, and every evening when the computers are shut down, they are automatically wiped so that anything left over by the users is removed. The last computer replacement was in October 6, 2013 when the Men’s club graciously donated the funds for the new computers. We will always be very grateful.

What happens to the old computers? We never sell any computers. If they are still in good working conditions, we have given them to some of the SCC clubs for their club records. In 2010 some of our members were teaching computer classes in the Women’s Prison on Balm Road on horribly old equipment and broken down furniture.

The computer club donated our retired computers, a few new desks, chairs, headphones, and our time. For those who participated as instructors, it was a fulfilling opportunity. The ladies always showed up for class and were genuinely appreciative. Sadly, this ended when the prison had to be torn down. However, the ladies were moved to a prison in Ocala, and they were allowed to take all this equipment with them to continue their learning.

It does take money to update the whole lab to state-of-the-art computers.

We are thankful that we have a good and willing volunteer staff who teach classes and staff the lab. Donations, education classes and our membership dues pays for our mailing and maintenance, and the rest goes into savings for the next upgrade. A special thanks to our volunteers; without whom this would not be possible.

Monday Movies

Rollins Theater

Second and Fourth Monday, 1 p.m.

All Sun City Center Community Association members and their guests who present current ID cards are welcome. Since capacity is limited to 145 attendees per the Hillsborough County Fire Code, people showing a Kings Point badge may attend on a space available basis.

October 10: The Lost City 1 hour, 52 minutes

After being kidnapped by a villainous treasure hunter, a successful romance novelist is forced to team up with her cover model as they are swept into a cutthroat jungle adventure that proves stranger than fiction.

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, Daniel Radcliff, Bowen Yang

Genre: Comedy, Romance, Action

Rating: PG-13 Partial nudity, language, suggestive material, violence, bloody images

October 24: Miss Willoughby and the Haunted Bookshop 1 hour, 35 minutes

There are 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide who are committed to causes such as promoting peace; fighting disease; providing clean water, sani tation and hygiene; saving mothers and children; supporting education; growing local economies; and, the most recent addition, protecting the environment. SCC Rotarians also deliver Meals on Wheels as one of their many community projects. The Rotary Club of SCC is a group of business professionals and community leaders who commit their time to local and international service projects. For more information on the club, visit its Facebook page at “facebook.com./RotarySCC”.

Move over Miss Marple, meet Miss Willoughby! Orphaned as a child, raised by a family friend, and skilled in strategy, literature and martial arts, there’s no case she can’t solve. But even she is baffled when a longtime friend tells her that a ghost is haunting the bookstore she runs.

Starring: Nathalie Cox, Kelsey Grammer, Louise Bangay, Caroline Quentin

Genre: Thriller, Suspense

Rating: PG violence, brief language, thematic material, scary images

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.

Computer Club Meeting

Wednesday October 12, at 7 p.m.

Ray Baxter from the APCUG Speakers Bureau will present: How Technology Has Changed the Way We Listen to Music. This presentation reviews our music listening habits in our homes during the last 65 years and looks at today’s download and streaming offerings.

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 members in good standing at Sun City Center or Kings Point. Tuition is payable upon registration. Info: Pauline Baker, “paulinebaker864@gmail.com” or “www.scccomputerclub.org”. iPad/iPhone for Seniors

Thursday, October 13, from 9 to noon

Intro to Computers (four sessions)

Wednesday, October 5, 12, 19, 26, from 10 to noon

Introduction to Excel

Monday, October 24, from 9 to noon

Cut the Cord (from cable to streaming media)

Tai Chi Club Classes Begin

Open Enrollment from October 18 - Nov 10

Classes held every Tuesday and Thursday 3 to 4 p.m. Atrium Dance Studio

Show up in comfortable clothes and flexible shoes. Watch your concentration improve; discover improved strength and balance; increased flexibility; and enjoy the quiet, repetitive, meditative time. Free for SCCCA members, as well as KP or FP with access cards.

SCC Yoga Club

There are a variety of classes for you including gentle, moderate, multi-level, and experienced. Info online at “sccyogaclub.uplifter.com”.

Gone Stampin’ Card Sale

Friday, October 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 1605 N Pebble Beach Blvd., Sun City Center

It’s time to stock up on your favorite cards. We have cards for all occasions such as birthdays, sympathy, get well, Halloween, and Christmas. Cards sell for $1 each and include an envelope. You don’t want to miss this sale! Proceeds again will be donated back into the community. The Gone Stampin’ Club thanks you for your continued support.

SCC New England Club Cookout

The Sun City Center New England Club will host another of its popular cookouts on October 13 in the Florida Room, in the Atrium building. Entry through the main door only, not the kitchen.

Serving from 5 to 6, socializing until 7 p.m. Hot dogs, burgers, baked beans, chips, and cookies will be served. Cost is $5 per person paid upon entry for New England Club members. Non-members will pay an annual $5 per person New England Club Membership fee and $5 per person cookout fee. Email Bob Sanchez at “suncitywriter@gmail.com” to reserve. Must wear SCCCA badge for entry. BYOB.

SCC New England Club Pizza Party

Thursday, November 10, doors open at 5 p.m.

SCC Community Hall

Pizza buffet from Marco's, karaoke and dancing. Reservations and prepayment required by Tuesday, November 1. Cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple for New England Club members. Non-members must pay an additional annual $5 per person New England Club Membership. www.sccnec.org. to reserve.

Bunka Club Invites You

The Bunka Club meets from 9-12 every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday to do a Japanese form of artwork with threads on your own canvas. The needles are large, many images to pick from, like birds, cottages, boats, Christmas etc. Must be an SCCCA member of KP gold card holder. Dues are $10 per year Meetings held in the Arts & Crafts building on Cherry Hills Drive.

Multicultural Heritage Club Meetings

Scheduled for October 7, November 4, and December 9

If you are not yet a member, you can join for $15 per person, or for two people at the same address, just $20. Meetings are held in the Caper Room of the Atrium from 12 to 2 p.m. Our purpose is to inspire our members to extend fellowship and support to each other through social and cultural activities. The residents of Sun City Center are multicultural and we like to celebrate the diversity of the human experience.

British Have Invaded SCC Aquasizers

Members of the Sew’n Sews Club in Sun City Center have been busy sewing smiles and good wishes into special pillowcases for the charity “Ryan’s Case for Smiles”. Shown in the photo are a few of the club members who recently delivered 265 pillowcases to the “Inspire Quilt Shop” in Plant City. From there, the pillowcases will be distributed to children who are fighting cancer in Tampa Bay area hospitals. The Club is located at the back of the Arts & Crafts Building on Cherry Hills Drive. Info: 813-505-9503, or online at “scc.sew.n.sew@gmail.com”.

Front Row: Charlotte Epps, Yolanda Zapata, Paula Simenson, Sharon Jordan. Back Row: Nan Ryan, Lynn Bodner, Dave Ellena, Paul Carroll.

Vicky Waller and her team put together a luncheon held on August 9 that included guest speakers (L to R) Kerry Larson, Lindsey Jewitt, and Annie Garrad. These British lovelies shared with the Aquasizers group the history and origin of teas in Great Britain as well as other historical facts about their country. The traditional thinly sliced cucumber sandwiches and scones with clotted cream and preserves were served as well as other tea party appropriate dishes.

of Sun City Center & South County

Military Families Can’t Stop Serving

“Volunteers to Our Lady’s Pantry come from throughout the county and from all walks of life,” says Tom Bullaro, codirector of the Pantry with his wife Anita. “Many of our volunteers, in fact, are retired military or from military families, and are now working members of AmeriCorps-Operation Veteran Connect (OVC). OVC is a program under the umbrella of Seniors in Service (SIS) out of Tampa. The special mission of this group, which includes volunteers over the age of 19, is to connect veterans, active militaries, and their families to community resources.”

“Through this connection, vets can increase their knowledge about benefits and have access to care,” says program manager Glarisol Traspalacios. “Further, they can engage veterans in assisting their fellow veterans through volunteer service.”

Retired Air Force veteran Leona Glenn, for example, once served in Turkey, Korea, Alaska, California, Virginia, and “all over the place,” she says. An AmeriCorps-OVC

member, Leona had always wanted to volunteer her services somewhere. When she retired from the Air Force after 20 years, she started looking around. “I asked Glarisol where I should go to volunteer,” Leona remembers. “Glarisol suggested Our Lady’s Pantry,” Leona says. “And here I am.”

So Leona found Our Lady’s Pantry and has been coming here a couple days a week for

Family Resource Centers

more than two years, packing boxes of food on Saturdays for our neighbors in need. “The little things we do are important to others,” she says, “and I really like it here.”

Then Leona chatted up Our Lady’s Pantry with her good friend Hortencia Francis, who started working here, as well, a few months later. Hortencia, also an AmeriCorps-OVC member, retired from the Army after 20

years, having served in the Middle East, Belgium, and other countries around the world.

“I started working at the Pantry during COVID,” she says. “I’m going on my second year here.”

Hortencia works at the Pantry on Tuesdays and Fridays doing whatever needs to be done. Long before dawn on Saturday mornings, however, she is driving in from Brandon to work on the registration desk with Anita Bullaro, personally meeting the clients who come for food.

Hortencia finds this work especially “heartwarming,” she says. “People start coming here at 5:45 a.m. Many of them tell me that if it were not for us, they wouldn’t have anything to eat.”

AmeriCorps-OVC member Michelle King, who is from a military family, learned about Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry from friends who work here. “I’ve been here for more than a year, and I love it,” says Michelle. “It’s rewarding knowing I am helping the community and helping veterans. Giving back a part of who I am is what I enjoy.”

Military continued on page 2.

Strong Dogs Inspire

By Paula Lickfeldt

Children’s Board Family Resource Centers are located throughout Hillsborough County and offer programs and services emphasizing family support, child development, health and safety, and learning success. The closest center to Sun City Center is at 3030 E. College Ave. Ruskin, Florida. It is located in the Big Lots

Shopping Center. Information at “www.ChildrensBoard.org” or “www.familysupporthc.org”.

Centers offer a wide range of family services including: Developmental playgroups, developmental screening, car seat safety classes, CPR and first aid certification, family service coordination, ready to learn assistance, healthcare enrollment assistance, family counseling, mobile dental services, information and referrals, as well Mobile Clinic Services including: child well care, immunizations, vision and hearing screening.

Each month the center has a theme. The theme for the

Family continued on page 16.

By Kai Rambow

When you watch them play, they are just like any other athletes – competitive. Someone tips over in his wheelchair and the game keeps moving on. Another player or two may stop to help. A ball goes through the hoop, and immediately the other team grabs the ball and charges down the court.

Everything is almost the same, except these athletes are playing in wheelchairs. “The biggest thing is pushing the wheelchair,” notes coach Wayne Bozeman. “Your arms are your legs and arms.” Players need to propel themselves on the court and them use those arms to shoot the ball. And, of course, there’s no jumping or dunking. After furiously pumping their arms to move

the wheelchair, players need to shoot with more skill than a standing basketball player.

Supported by Hillsborough County, the Tampa Bay Strong Dogs wheelchair basketball team has been around for 16 years. In 2020, they won the national championship. They’re in a rebuilding phase with new players. Those newer players benefit from the experience of veteran players.

Griffin Cloyd, 16, has played for the past five years. This is his first year playing on an adult team. “I’ve learned a lot in this past year,” Cloyd shared. “These guys just took me under their wing. It’s a lot more fast-paced, and they are more skilled. They’re really kind.”

There really aren’t sports

Strong continued on page 12.

L to R: Michelle, Leona, Yvette, Scott, and Hortencia.

T.C. Fuller chases down the ball during a practice session. You can watch these inspiring athletes during their practice sessions.

The Editor’s Corner

Thank You, Diane

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

In February 2016, I received an email from a relatively new Sun City Center resident. The story was about the Scrabble Club, and the byline on that feature was “Diane M. Loeffler.” That article appeared on page 18 of the March 2016 News of Sun City Center, the first of many excellent pieces written by Diane over her six years, and 80 issues, as a member of our team. Diane is moving back north to be closer to her grandkids, and she will definitely be missed.

After that interesting piece about the Scrabble Club, I reached out to Diane and asked if she might be interested in joining our team on a more regular basis. The former educator, who brought with her a gift for clear prose and a precise eye for grammar and punctuation, agreed to give it a shot. Her first issue as an “official” member of the team was April 2016. Month after month, issue after issue, for six years, Diane kept shooting and kept hitting the bullseye. She wrote about clubs and SCCCA board meetings and other Association issues. Along the way, Diane struck up friendships with board members and presidents, several of whom have reached out to me over the years to thank her for her fair, accurate reporting.

As an editor, one of the best gifts you can ever receive is a reporter who shows initiative in pitching interesting stories, writes them fairly, quotes their sources accurately, and submits them on time. As editor of The News, I am spoiled with those particular riches. We have an outstanding team, a fact that I’m reminded of each and every month, from our planning meetings, to markup, to seeing their stories fill up my inbox each and every month.

If you’re reading this, you and all your neighbors benefit greatly from the work these outstanding volunteer reporters and photographers do. They do what they do because they love this community and want to see it thrive. I hope that, when you see them out and about, you let them know you appreciate their work. And, if you’ve appreciated Diane’s work over the years, send me a note or an email, and I will make sure she gets the message.

Eagle-eyed News readers will likely spot a story or two bearing Diane’s byline in the next few months. She completed these prior to moving, and we had them set and ready to go. I asked Diane about some of her favorite stories. What did she love to write about most?

“I really enjoyed the stories about veterans,” she said. “The one-on-one talks with them were

Here’s Diane sharing the “good News” with Miss American Samoa.

amazing. And I really liked just sitting and hearing everyone’s stories at the Thursday Bob’s Vets gatherings. Writing about the SCC Veteran’s Memorial was rewarding as well. I was so excited when it was finally completed!”

About her time writing about the CA’s various projects and activities, Diane said she appreciated the rapport and trust she developed with the board members. “It’s not an easy job, especially when you’re making decisions some folks won’t be happy about. It was cool to know what was happening all the time and an honor to spend time with the people who put all that time and effort into making things happen…”

“All the building projects over the years were fun to follow,” Diane added, “I’m glad the Long Range Planning Committee is active now. This is an opportunity for everyone in the community to get involved in building the future of SCC.”

Through the years, Diane covered clubs and nonprofits and community events. SCCCA members grew accustomed to seeing her doing interviews and shooting photos at cart parades and July 4 celebrations, along with bandstand concerts, FallFest, “Hi, Neighbor!”, the Holiday Walk, pancake breakfasts, appreciating CA volunteers, and thanking our “Healthcare Heroes” in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. She also interviewed prospective Board candidates year after year, faithfully capturing and communicating their quotes and intentions, so CA members could cast a fully-informed vote.

Only once in six years do I ever recall asking Diane to cover a story and hearing, “No, thanks.” She would be out of town, you see, “Going to visit the grandkids.” That’s a pretty good reason to bow out, as far as I’m concerned. So, now that she and John have relocated to the cooler northern climes to be closer to those grandkids, I, on behalf of all of us at The News, wanted to take a moment to say, “Thank you, Diane Loeffler. I’m happy you enjoy Scrabble enough to write about the club six years ago, and I’m proud to have assigned and edited your stories in the 79 issues since. You consistently delivered outstanding work, on time, and it’s appreciated.”

So, SCC and KP neighbor, here’s my question for you: Do you like to write and take pictures? Do you love the SCC or Kings Point 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 news and events? To have the inside scoop about what’s happening in the community?

Military continued from page 1.

AmeriCorps-OVC members

Yvette and Scott Harvey also have been working at the Pantry for more than a year. Retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs, and also from a military family, Yvette is passionate about any opportunity to give back to veterans and others as well. “Helping others warms my heart and makes me feel a sense of gratitude. I enjoy what I do at Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry a few days a week, and being part of the food distribution on Saturday mornings,” she says.

Scott joins his wife in working at Our Lady’s Pantry. Scott is a Gulf War veteran, retired from the Army after seven years, having done tours in California, Virginia, Korea, as well as Saudi Arabia/Kuwait during the War. Scott and his wife learned about the Pantry through Operation Veterans Connect. Scott enjoys

You might LOVE being on The News team! If you’re interested, email me at “editor@soco. news”. Put “Join the News” in the subject line. I look forward to hearing from you.

working here, he says, not only because the Pantry’s mission is such a good cause, but also because he likes working with other good people.

In addition to his working at the Pantry, OVC manager Glarisol Traspalacios asked Scott if he would be willing to assist with an additional effort to help veterans beyond working onsite in Wimauma. Now, instead of heading home to Riverview after leaving Wimauma on Saturdays, he takes a circuitous route through inner-city Tampa. Here, he delivers bags of groceries and beverages to 10 men and women veterans living there.

To learn more about Operation Veteran Connect, visit “seniorsinservice.org/operationveteran-connect”. To learn more about Our Lady’s Pantry, visit “www.ourladyspantry. com”.

of SCC & South County

Is a publication of NOKPmedia PO Box 6212, Sun City Center, FL 33573-6212

News Line: 813.938.7441 • Ad Line: 813.938.8721

Submission Deadline: 15th of the month prior to publication.

ADVERTISING: Neither NOKPmedia, nor its representatives or publications are liable for errors in advertising. THE NEWS does not endorse and cannot verify the accuracy of claims or representations made by advertisers who are solely responsible for advertisement contents.

SUBMISSIONS: THE NEWS is proud to be the ONLY print media publication distributed to EVERY home and business in Greater Sun City Center, as well as several nearby communities in South Hillsborough County. We are dedicated to providing you a local paper with a “hometown” feel. Submissions we accept include: community events or business news, club or group announcements, stories and poems, as well as your favorite joke, song, photo, artwork, or travel story.

NOKP Media (Publisher) reserves the right to edit or otherwise refuse all submissions. Neither the publisher nor the editor assume any responsibility for the return of submitted items. Mailed submissions can ONLY be returned if a correctly sized SASE is included with the submission.

Basic paragraph format required for all submissions. Submissions including ALL CAPS, multiple colors, and other ‘flyer-type’ formatting will not be considered for publication.

Email submissions are preferred. Submit stories and photos to “editor@soco. news”. Place the content in the body of the email and attach pictures in .jpeg or .png format. Submissions may be submitted via the SUBMISSIONS link at www. soco.news

Mailed submissions should be sent to:

The News of Sun City Center & South County C/O NOKPmedia PO Box 6212 Sun City Center, FL 33573-6212.

LETTERS: The News of Sun City Center & South County will not publish any political, proselytizing, or complaint letters. We will consider “thank you” notes for good service directed toward local people, organizations, or businesses.

DECLARATION: No part of this publication may be reproduced without the express written consent of NOKPmedia. All editorial copy is strictly the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of this publication, its officers or employees, or the Sun City Center Community Association.

E. Adam Porter Editor in Chief 813.938.7441 editor@soco.news

Ilona Merritt Reporter imerritt@soco.news

Diane Loeffler Reporter dloeffler@soco.news

Andrea L.T. Peterson Reporter apeterson@soco.news

John Wolf Advertising 813.938.8721 newsofsccads@gmail.com

Kai Rambow Reporter krambow@soco.news

Paula Lickfeldt Reporter plickfeldt@soco.news

Bob Sanchez Reporter bsanchez@soco.news

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

Nancy Jean Design and Layout art@soco.news

South Shore Democratic Club

We are readying ourselves for the big race in November. Won’t you join us? We meet every first Thursday of the month at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church 1293 Del Webb Blvd W. community room in the rear of the building. Meet and greet 1p.m. meeting starts 1:30.

New York Club Halloween Party

Saturday, October 1, at 5 p.m.

Music by 3-Dom Band. Food catered by Banquet Masters. Members $25, guests $28.50. For further information please contact Frank Gatto at 813-633-8942.

Staying Healthy and Preventing Falls: Everyday Strategies

October 27, at 1:30 p.m.

Sun Towers, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive in SCC, 33573

Join us for an interactive and informative talk on strategies to help us stay healthy and reduce the number of falls as we age, with a focus on keeping our mind and bodies healthy and keeping our homes safe. Event is part of our Healthy Habits Learning Series on. No RSVP required, we will have valet available. Questions call Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Camp Bayou Fall Events

On Friday and Saturday evenings, October 14 and 15, Camp Bayou will offer our popular themed night hikes. Two options are available, both without using flashlights. At 6 p.m., the hike focuses on the native creatures of the night, without a scary element for the younger ones. At 7 p.m., the hike reflects the season with Camp Bayou’s own tales of ghosts and cryptids. Both hikes end with s’mores around the campfire. Cost is $5 per person. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Register online at the link on the Camp Bayou “campbayou.blogspot.com”. Camp Bayou is located three miles south of SR-674 at the end of 24th St. SE in Ruskin. “www.campbayou.org” or call 813-641-8545.

We Welcome

1515

Ohio Club Party

October 14, doors open at 5 p.m.

Florida Room

This party features a delicious dinner by Banquet Masters, great music by the Six River Band, and the opportunity to meet with other Ohioans and their friends. Cost: $21 members, $24 guests. Make your reservation with your check made out to the Ohio Club sent to 1406 Emerald Dunes, 33573, or placed in the Ohio Club dropbox at that location. Info: Jim Rottman at “jrottman@tampabay.rr.com”.

Hibernians Craft Fair

Saturday, October 15, from 9 to 2

Prince of Peace 702 Valley Forge Blvd.

One of a kind table runners, towels, canned goods, unusual handmade greeting cards, kitchen items, wall décor, beautiful religious items, quilts of all sizes, cat toys, crocheted items, gift items, organic soaps, ceramics, and paintings in oils and watercolors. Start your Christmas shopping early with unique Christmas decorations. Info: “Charlene-Hollars@hotmail.com”.

Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Luncheon

October 12

The guest speaker for the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) luncheon will be Daniel M. Gallagher from Hillsborough County Recycling. The luncheon, led by ABWC President Sheila May, will take place at the Ruskin Moose Lodge #183, 1212 E. Shell Point Road. The cost is $22 and reservations and payments must be received by the Friday prior to the luncheon. For menu details and reservations contact Barbara DeOca at 813-892-1219 “bdeoca@ gmail.com”. More info: www.apollobeachwomansclub.com or Liz Pedersen at 813-777-8215 “kenlizpedersen@msn.com”.

South Bay Genealogical Society

Tuesday, October 18, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

UMC LEC, 1971 Haverford Ave.

Begins with a round table discussion, followed by a sit-down 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 per person for the meal and the presentation. RSVP: Dianna Loudermilk at 864-6071330. 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 October 7.

German American Club Oktoberfest Celebration

Thursday, October 13, doors open at 4:30 p.m.

SCC Community Hall

There will be a special opening ceremony followed by a traditional Oktoberfest buffet catered by Banquet Masters. BYOB. Martin Gross and The Sonnenschein Express will entertain you with their incredible versatility and musical talents. Tickets $30 for members, $35 nonmembers. Please send or drop off your check, payable to German American Club of SCC at the following locations: Fred Rathke (1058 Emerald Dunes Drive, SCC, 813-938-4845), Lenny Crooks (2425 Emerald Lake Drive, Apt 209, SCC 813-493-1644), Wolfgang Kesselring (2042 Grantham Greens Dr., SCC 860-3073342). The last date for reservations will be October 6.

Community

Coastal Eye Institute is pleased to welcome Dr. Selina Lin to our Sun City Center office. Dr. Lin is a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Fellowship-Trained Retina Specialist with expertise in:

• Macular Degeneration

• Diabetic Eye Care

• Flashes & Floaters

• Laser Surgery of the Retina

Camp Bayou’s canoe launch is the start of an adventure.

ER at Sun City Center, an Extension of Manatee Memorial Hospital, is a full-service emergency department that provides care to those in need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Our new facility is located at 16504 S. U.S. 301, Wimauma, FL 33598, adjacent to Walmart ® . 813-642-1000

Sun City Center

• Care for all ages

• Access 24/7

• On-site physician 24/7

Six exam rooms, three rapid medical exam spaces and 12 treatment

• Full-service laboratory and imaging

(X-ray, CT

This emergency department is part of Manatee Memorial Hospital. This is not an urgent care center. Its services and care are billed at hospital emergency department rates.

Physicians are on the medical staff of Manatee Memorial Hospital, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Manatee Memorial Hospital. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians.

For language assistance, disability accommodations and the nondiscrimination notice, visit our website. 22821850-1065237 9/22

Galaxy Bridge Luncheon

October 6, at 11 a.m.

Galaxy Bridge will meet for lunch and bridge at the United Methodist Church’s LEC Building at 1971 Haverford Ave. Members will meet at 11 a.m. and lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. The price of the luncheon is $15. RSVP to Kathie at 410-879-1112 or Gina at 813-633-5324.

Guest Speaker at Cat Lovers Club

Tuesday, October 18, from 10 to noon

Trinity Baptist Church, 702 Del Webb West Please Join Cat Lovers Club for a presentation by Teri Brockway, a Hillsborough County Master Gardener from the Elegant Gardner’s Club. Teri will discuss how to keep our pets safe from poisonous plants and harmful chemicals in our homes and yards. Info: “info@ CatLoversClub.org”.

DAR Meeting

October 19, at 12:30 p.m.

Atrium Building Florida Room, 945 D North Course Lane

The Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will meet for light refreshments and conversation. Our speaker this month will be Walt Cawein, he will be speaking on the Sun City Center Veterans Memorial, a subject very close to our hearts. Info: Kay Adkins at “mujerdragona@yahoo. com”.

Organ Keyboard Has Great News For Beginners

We are a club of some fine organ players and they are volunteering on Fridays from 1-4 to help you for free! Stop by to bring your question or just watch. Our lesson is on Thursday 10-11 with a qualified teacher of music, and it’s worth $3, group lesson. Both of these are in the Armstrong Room, by the computer room, where we store our organs. Must be SCC resident or gold card.

No instrument needed, use our organs, or bring a keyboard, or accordion. Club members are also available to play for SCC

Annual Garage Sale Accepting Donations

Now Accepting Donations for St. Andrew Presbyterian Church’s Annual Garage Sale held Friday, November 18 and Saturday, November 19, at 1239 Del Webb W. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Donations accepted until November 2. Household, furniture, books, jewelry, linens, electronics, antiques, collectibles, glassware, tools, and much more. Call the church for more information at 813-634-1252.

Lions Club on the Move

Effective immediately the Sun City Center Lions Club will be meeting at Sun Towers Retirement Community in the theater room, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. The meetings will be held the first and third Tuesday of the month, at noon. Valet parking will be provided. Cost of the meal is $12 per person, and includes the entree, side, dessert, and beverage. Past Lions, and anyone interested in becoming a Lion are very much welcome to attend.

Info: Maryanne Eberle, 609-694-8235.

Nearly New Shop Falls Into New Hours

The fall season has arrived and up north that means a change of leaf color. Here in Sun City Center, Florida, it means a change to the operating hours at the Nearly New Thrift Shop! Nearly New has opened its doors for shoppers on Wednesdays as well as Saturdays from 8 a.m. until noon. Thanks to the funds generated from the many shoppers, the Interfaith Social Action Council has issued $200,000 in scholarships to young people this fall.

Eagle Audubon Club

Monday, October 17, at 1 p.m.

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

Meeting will feature Bird Photographer Ned Kuehn. He will showcase a bird photo essay of common to less common North American bird species. Along with the beautiful photographs from his collection, Mr. Kuehn will also offer unique photography tips. Eagle Audubon Society meetings are free and open to the public. Info: “eagleaudubonflorida.org” or “Facebook.com/eagle1984”.

Rotary Making a Difference: “We Are Family”

Local Rotarians are making a difference in the lives of residents at Plaza West, a Freedom Plaza Skilled Nursing Facility. Meet our extended family:

Natasha Grace, a 17 month old, female miniature golden doodle who is certified as a therapy dog; Kathleen Stasia, owner of Natasha Grace and President-Elect of The Rotary Club of SCC; Anastasia Pietras, a resident at Plaza West and the 97-year-old mother of Kathleen and mom-mom to Natasha Grace. According to Sheri Fleming, Activities Director at Plaza West, Natasha Grace “displays friendliness, patience, and gentleness while visiting our residents every Monday morning.”

Pretty Yellow ’67 Chevy Roamin’ Oldies Winner

A bright yellow 1967 Chevrolet Nova SS owned by Joe and Emily Lara of Valrico is the Roamin’ Oldies Car Club cruiser of the month. Their Nova is fitted with a 327 cubic-inch, 275 horsepower V8 engine, 4-speed transmission and other performance equipment that came with the SS option that turned Chevy’s economy model into a genuine muscle-car. 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.

SCC Men’s Club Hears TGH Chaplain

By Jay Sparkman

The Sun City Center Men’s Club was visited by Laura Moenning Smith, Chaplain at Tampa General Hospital, and members of the Ambulatory Services Patient Navigation Department and the Strategic Partnerships & Community Engagement Department. Chaplain Smith spoke of the importance for all persons to have an Advance Directive and to establish a Healthcare Surrogate/ Advocate. Membership in the SCC Men’s Club is open to residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point. Call 813-260-3058 to speak with John Lehr, VP for Membership.

Vincente Lopez, Aleksandra Zqonjanin, Sarah Miller, Laura Smith, Keyshanna Miller-McNeil, Julianna Castillo, Ed Barnes.

Joe and Emily Lara’s 1967 Chevrolet Nova SS is the Roamin’ Oldies Car Club September cruiser of the month.

Fundraiser Pancake Breakfast

Sunday, October 30, from 8 to 1 p.m.

The Pickleball Club will be hosting a pancake breakfast fundraiser with proceeds going to the SCC Emergency Squad. It will be held at the South Campus Community Hall, 1910 South Pebble Beach in Sun City Center and the public is welcome. Cost is $10, kids under 5 eat for free.

7th Annual Spayghetti No Balls Dinner

Thursday, October 27, doors open at 4:30 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater

Music by local pianist, entertainment by theater groups starting at 5:15. Tickets $15 per person for a meal of spaghetti with meat sauce, crusty parmesan garlic bread, mixed greens salad, brownie treat and iced tea. BYOB. Tickets available at the Sun City Center Chamber of Commerce, phone 813-634-5111, or email for info at “info@felinefolks.us”.

Promoting Independence For Those With Low Vision

Thursday, October 27 from 10 to 11 a.m.

Prince of Peace Conesa Center, 702 Valley Forge Blvd. Tampa’s Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision provides training in visual rehabilitation techniques to help improve visual functioning using optical aids and devices. Anyone experiencing vision loss is invited to come learn ways to improve one’s life by promoting independence. RSVP to “www.popcc.org/health-ministry”.

Kings Point Italian Club

Columbus Day Party

Monday October 10, doors open at 4:30 p.m.

KP Veterans Theater

Food provided by Banquet Masters. Chefs selected desserts. We supply coffee, tea, and soda. BYOB. Music by Sal Prado. Members $25 per person; guests $28 per person. Please make checks payable to Kings Point Italian Club. Tickets on sale October 4 and 5 from 9 to noon in the North Clubhouse Lobby. Info: Frank Oleskewicz 813-3004010 or “www.kpitalianclub.com”.

Girls of the World At AAUW

Lea Manningham has managed to use her life experiences including becoming a teen Mom at 16 and enduring homelessness as well as domestic violence to help her become a phenomenal mother and leader. Lea will be the speaker at the first meeting of AAUW on Saturday, October 8. The meeting is in the Florida Room of the SCC Atrium. Arrive at 9:30 a.m. Call Margi Castiglia at 813-633-8253 at least five days before the meeting if you plan to attend. a $5 donation at the door.

Bingo And More Fundraiser

October 29, at 1 p.m.

Hope Fund for Children fundraiser to support our children of Wimauma, from K-College. Lots of prizes! Visit our website www.thehopefundscc.org or call 813-590-8448 for more info.

Operation: Distinctive Domain

At Freedom Plaza Sun City Center Florida, you will feel comfortable and secure in your spacious apartment home, with walk-in closets and luxury amenities. First-class quarters, on-call maintenance, and 24-hour security? Roger that.

An Active Senior Living Community

At the Galaxy Bridge Luncheon on September 1, a gift was presented to Jennifer Dunlap, the Chef at the United Methodist Church. Presenting the gift are (left to right) Margo Stonefield, Jennifer Dunlap, Helen Lewis, Linda Charbonneau, and Gina Tucker.

PERFORMINGARTS

Art Club Demonstration

Monday, October 17, at 1 p.m.

The Art Club in Sun City Center is delighted to feature Harvey Berman as the demo artist for the month of October. Join Harv on in Rollins Theater as he demonstrates effective watercolor techniques that will also have application to other paint mediums. A popular artist, Harv’s commissioned work includes paintings for restaurants, offices, residences, and private collections in Maryland, Virginia and Florida. The demonstration is free and open to Community Association members.

Firehouse Cultural Center Events

The Firehouse Cultural Center provides quality programming in arts & education for ages, all diversities. Serving South Shore since 2011. A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. “Center Stage” performances include live music and/or comedy and are held at 7:30 p.m. Reservations required. Tickets are $23 for members, $28 future members. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Friday, October 7

Comedy by Dean Napolitano and Nathan Wallace

Saturday, October 8

Music by Cadillac Cowboys Sunday, October 10 (3 p.m.)

Crooner Kerst Lehmann (Special pricing, call for info)

Info: 813-645-7651, “firehouseculturalcenter.org”

Location: 1st Ave NE at Shell Point Road in Ruskin. 33570.

away, and the SCCCA is so excited to kick off with our adult Comedy Cabaret. The Comedy Cabaret will feature Michael Panzeca and Lou Angelwolf. Michael Panzeca is an actor, comedian, and writer. He is able to comfort the disturbed and disturb the comfortable with his straightforward intelligent in your face style of comedy. Lou Angelwolf is the old school deluxe; the veteran radio show host heard by millions and has performed live stand up in over 5,000 shows in comedy clubs and nightclubs. What’s a better way to kick off the entertainment season then with a great comedy show… BYOB.

The Comedy Cabaret will be an adult comedy show on Friday, October 21 at 7 p.m. The show will be in Community Hall 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd, tickets available for $15 for SCCCA and KP. Please remember you must have your CA or KP badge to purchase. We only take cash or check payments.

Mystery Dinner Theater

Saturday, November 12

Get your tickets now!

The original play, Crimes of Fashion, was written by James Williams and will be presented by members of the popular Pelican Players. Your $25 ticket includes a chicken Francaise dinner. Sponsored by St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. Tickets may be purchased at the church office Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

DANCING

Come Dance With Us

Saturday, October 8, doors open at 6 p.m. Kings Point North Clubhouse Veterans Theater

Live music by LB & Chloe. Dance the waltz, foxtrot, rock, swing, rumba, salsa, cha-cha, and more. All are welcome. Cost $5 at the door. Guests from outside KP or SCC may be asked to pay $2.50 for facility use. BYOB. Water and ice provided. Questions, call Ken at 513-582-8449.

Sweethearts Boogie Dance

Sponsored by the Multicultural Heritage Club

Friday, October 7, from 5 to 9 p.m.

The SCC Community Hall will be jumping with music DJ’d by Tito and Debi Entertainment. Tickets are $12 at the door. BYOB with ice and cups provided and a 50/50 raffle are also on the agenda.

Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club

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

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

Dance to your favorites: country two-step, bachata, west coast swing, nightclub, swing, cha-cha, waltz with DJs Mike and Peg Johnston. Dress is casual, no shorts. BYOB and snacks. Water, coffee, and ice will be served. Bring your friends, or come and make new friends. 2022 members are free; everyone else is $6 each. All are welcome. Info: Tom Hart at 810-923-8446.

Senior Social Dance

RSVP only: Tuesdays, October 4 and 18

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., dancing from 6 to 9 St. John Divine, 1015 Del Webb Blvd. E. SCCA and Kings Point residents and their guests. No walk-ins. $6 per person. Enjoy Thor Stevens and his saxophone. Dressy casual. No shorts or jeans. BYOB, ice, setups, snacks. Info and RSVP to Judy Furman 425-214-3996 or “judyannfurman@gmail.com”.

Moonglow Dance Club

Thursday, October 27, from 7 to 9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd. Moonglow Dance Club will feature “LB & Chloe” at their monthly dance in Sun City Center. All SCCCA, FP, and KP 2022 Gold Card or Dance Card Holders only are welcome with ID or a photo of it. Moonglow members free, guests $6 per person at the door. BYOB and snacks. Ice, water, and cups available. Casual attire (no shorts). Info: 813-633-1297 or “gail3357@gmail.com”.

Dance continued on page 9.

City

Mac Clements

10:30 this Sunday Morning 9912 Indiana Street Gibsonton, FL

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.

Tiffany Rivers

Lou Angelwolf

Michael Panzeca

Dance continued from page 8.

Sun City Center Dance Club

Saturday, October 8, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

The Sun Center Dance Club invites you to dance to the music of the 40’s, S0’s, and 60’s with DJ Brian Ashley. Attire is dressy casual, no shorts. Admission is limited to SCC residents, Freedom Plaza residents (with a yellow access card), and Kings Point (with gold card or dance card). Members are free. Non-member SCC residents pay $6 at the door. Water and ice will be provided. BYOB, snacks, and refreshments. Info: Chuck MacDougall 813-729-3911.

Do You Wanna Dance

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

Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

Live entertainment will be provided by Lorelei on the Rocks. Admission is $5 per member and $10 per guest. Dance tickets will be available at the Kiosk in the Atrium Monday, Wednesday, and Friday October 10, 12, and 14 from 10 to noon. Tickets may also be purchased at the door. BYOB and snacks. Cups, ice and napkins are provided. Dress is casual. Present your valid SCCCA ID, Kings Point gold card, Freedom Plaza Access Card, or guest pass for house guests and friends for tickets. Info: Kathy at “jfkfunnsun@ yahoo.com”.

Social Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons

October 3, 10, 17, 24

St. John the Divine, 1015 East Del Webb Blvd.

4 p.m. – Intermediate 2 Silver Waltz

5 p.m. – Intermediate Salsa Mambo

6 p.m. – Beginning Intermediate West Coast Swing 7 p.m. – Beginning Rumba

Info: Bernice DuBro (dancewithbernice@gmail.com), 813-6343205, 813-482-6784. Cost: $30 per person for a four-week month, or $8 per lesson. All are welcome.

Ballet/Tap for Seniors Club

Every Tuesday, from 10 to 10:50 a.m. Dance Studio 2, north of Lawn Bowling

Beginner Ballet Barre exercises to help our seniors develop proper posture and improve balance with a concentration on fluidity of movement to prevent falls. SCCCA Card, Kings Point Gold Card or Freedom Plaza ID is required. Please call Cindy Rohr, at 630-2351277, to reserve your place in class.

Halloween Dance

Monday, October 31

St. John the Divine, 1015 East Del Webb Blvd. Nightclub two-step lesson at 6 p.m. Dance from 6:30 to 8:30

Cost: $6 per person • Costumes optional but encouraged. Info: Bernice DuBro (dancewithbernice@gmail.com), 813-634-3205, 813-482-6784.

OCTOBER 2022

TITO'S

Military News

The program will include finalizing plans for the Veterans Day Ceremony scheduled for Friday, November 11, at 10 a.m. in the CA Community Hall. Coffee and donuts will be available at 9 a.m. All

News of Freedom Plaza

By Peggy Burgess

Freedom Plaza has reached a new milestone in its 30-year history by welcoming its first third-generation resident! Bruce Clatterbuck followed the steps of his grandmother, Evelyn, and his mother, Helen, (both now deceased) in making Freedom Plaza his retirement home.

the National Convention held in Jacksonville, FL from August 3 – 7. They also won first place in best information/publicity; best newsletter; best public safety/law and order activity; best Scouting; and second place in ROTC categories. The awards were presented to the individuals most responsible for their excellence at the monthly meeting at the Sun City Center, Freedom Plaza Club on Sept. 15, 2022.

LTC Charles Conover, USA (Ret) was installed as Commander of Region VI, and Doug Roderick, Col. USAF former Commander of the local Chapter was presented with the General John J. Pershing award, which is given to the 3rd, 2nd and first place winners in the small, medium and large chapter sizes. It is the highest award given by MOWW. The chapter won the award for 11 consecutive years as a medium size chapter, took second place last year as a large chapter and first this year.

Service Medals were awarded to the staff members that contributed much of their time and efforts toward achieving the awards by recognizing the Sun City Center veterans, its youth, and law and order organizations. Two new members, Bill Kirkpatrick, Commander USN (Ret.), and Joe Muhlberger, USAF (Ret.), were inducted into the Chapter.

Veterans qualified for MOWW membership are those in current military service, retired military service, or former military service and members from the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, War in Afghanistan, War in Iraq, and peacetime service. Inquiries regarding joining the Chapter should be directed to Charley Collins, 813 4040059 or “charliecollins226@gmail.com”.

When you reach 90 years of age you begin to curb your travel, right? Wrong, if you had been Evelyn Clatterbuck: you would celebrate your 90th birthday in Oberammergau, Germany, on your way, with a group of Freedom Plaza friends, to Munich’s Oktoberfest. Evelyn was an employee of the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, D.C. When her two children were grown, her husband deceased and she, herself, finally retired after 30 years, she came to live in Sun City Center. However, as soon as Freedom Plaza opened, in 1992, Evelyn moved in. Her son also worked in Government Service with NSA (National Security Agency). He also, upon retirement, moved with wife, Helen, to Sun City Center. After his death, Helen became a resident of Freedom Plaza and joined her mother-in-law, Evelyn, in indulging the “Clatterbuck travel bug”.

Evelyn’s grandson (and Helen’s son), Bruce, evidently inherited the “wanderlust” gene, for he has traveled to all 50 states, plus seven foreign countries and recently visited both Yosemite and Sequoia National Parks. This last jaunt, however, required assistance from his brother, for Bruce - although a miraculous

40-year survivor of Hodgkin’s lymphoma - is now disabled.

His progressive neurological disabilities resulted from excessive radiation treatments when Hodgkin’s struck him in his early 20’s, before radiation’s long-term effects were fully understood.

Bruce earned a degree in computer science and worked for General Electric. Later, he worked as a volunteer for the Florida Parks Service and, locally, as Manager of Manatee State Park. Freedom Plaza is pleased and honored to have in residence this third-generation Clatterbuck, Bruce, who remains a stalwart, outgoing, positive individual and serves as an inspiration to all. Welcome home, Bruce Clatterbuck!

info.

From left, Col. Doug Roderick, USA (Ret.) receiving Pershing Award from LTC Charlie Conover USA (Ret) Region VI Commander.

Third generation Freedom Plaza resident, Bruce Clatterbuck, with photos of grandmother, Evelyn Clatteerbuck (right) and mother, Helen Clatterbuck (left).

New History Today, Tasty Too

By Kai Rambow

This is the perfect follow-up to the Plant Museum, featured last month: the only still-operating cigar factory, J.C. Newman. It’s new history, because, even though the company has been around for well over 100 years, they only started offering tours in 2020.

“We’re delighted you’re joining us,” enthused Drew Newman. He is a fourth-generation owner and just happened to cross paths with the tour group. This enthusiasm was experienced throughout my tour. There are multiple aspects of history to experience.

Even if you don’t smoke cigars, it is interesting to see what made Tampa famous. Cigars, like wine, have different flavors depending on where the tobacco is from, the combination of tobacco, and how long it was cured.

Newman has been in business for over 100 years. They originally started in Ohio and moved operations, including all equipment a few decades into their business. A majority of the

equipment is close to 100 years old. It has been lovingly cared for and is still used today.

Historically, a sizable chunk of the workforce was Cuban.

Surprisingly, it still is today. Recent Cuban immigrants, including two within the last year, work here. Having worked for cigar companies in Cuba, they have plenty of knowledge and experience in the industry.

The building is over 100 years old, and its history is appealing.

A modern twist of history is the number of couples choosing to get married at the factory. One of the more traditional rooms, where premium hand rolled cigars are made, is fully booked through 2024 for weddings.

There is plenty to discover on a visit here.

You may be wondering, “Where does the tasty part come in?

I don’t smoke.” When you’re finished with your visit here, you may be feeling a little hungry.

A less than five minute walk away is another new history, La Segunda Central Bakery. It’s over 100 years old, but the food

is made fresh daily. There are a dozen great sandwich choices, plus a wide variety of pastries. This is the bakery that supplies The Columbia with its Cuban bread to create original Cuban sandwiches. You can get those sandwiches here as well. They are so popular and busy there are no tables or chairs. You might want to plan on eating in your car or creating your own picnic on the spot.

Tips for a Great Trip

Driving/Parking: Plan on a 35-minute drive. There is parking right beside the factory. Recommend having and using GPS or driving apps. It’s not complicated, but there are several one-way streets. You’ll find a navigation aid quite helpful.

Timing: Book in advance through the website. There are three tours a day at 9:30, 11:30 and 1. The guided tours take about 75 minutes and cost $12 for seniors. Note: If you plan on eating at La Segunda, they close at 3 p.m. and some items may be gone by that time.

Explore Before: Suggest arriving a little early before your tour time. Take some time to see and read the exhibits near the entrance. This is an interesting and fun trip.

J.C. Newman Cigar Company 2701 N 16th St.

Tampa, FL 33605 (813) 248-2124

www.jcnewman.com

La Segunda Central Bakery 2512 N 15th St.

Ybor City, FL 33606

Note: No dine in facilities

A guided tour provides insight into how cigars are made and some of the challenges involved in production. Even if you don’t smoke, this is an interesting excursion.

Tobacco leaves being rehydrated to make them more supple to work with.

Adogable

Pet

opportunities for many of these athletes. T.C. Fuller, who’s been wheelchair bound since he was a young child, drives down from Brooksville twice a week to practice and play. “When I was a kid, my brothers and sisters always played sports. They weren’t going to let me get away with not playing.” The opportunity to play is not the best part for him though: “I love playing, but I love the friendships and camaraderie. There are days I don’t feel like coming, but it changes how I feel.”

Cloyd has a similar view, “The sport itself is just a lot of fun for me, the people on the team are just really good people.” The coach concurs, “Building friendships has been the most rewarding part.”

If you’d like to see the Strong Dogs play you can catch their practice sessions on Mondays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the All People’s Community Park & Life Center, 6105 E. Sligh Ave. in Tampa. We’ll let you know if we learn of tournament dates.

Rodin Until October 30

By Kai Rambow

You’re all probably familiar with one sculpture, The Thinker, by Auguste Rodin. Rodin was and remains one of the most famous sculptors of all time. His bronze works have inspired generations of artists.

For a limited time, you can see 40 of Rodin’s works – for free – at the Polk Museum of Art. Located in Lakeland, the museum is right

across from the library by Lake Morton. If you went to see the swans at the lake, you’ll be familiar with the location.

You have three options, depending on how much you want to dive into great sculptures. (1) Visit and explore the works on your own. There are explanations and there is a short film explaining how bronze sculptures are made. (2) Visit on a Saturday to see the exhibit and catch the noon showing of an award-winning, one hour film on Rodin. (3) Visit on September 1 or October 3 for an in-depth curator tour on Rodin. These are in the early evening. Two people raved about this option. Note: admission and parking are free.

Polk Museum of Art 800 E Palmetto St. Lakeland, FL 33801 (863) 688-7743 www.polkmuseumofart.org Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Tips for a Great Trip

Timing: It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive there. Plan on one hour for the exhibit. You might want to have a bite to eat at the Black & Brew across the parking lot by the library.

Be Ready to Vote—Here’s How and When

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

Our Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections (SOE), Craig Latimer, says his goal is to make Hillsborough County “the best place in America to vote.” To achieve that goal requires organization and all the right people! Our county has 900,000, almost 450 precincts, and thousands of volunteer and paid workers.

What’s involved in working the polls? The quickest, easiest way to get the best info is to call the SOE office or check the “votehillsborough.gov” website.

Step One: make sure you are registered to vote! Your party affiliation doesn’t matter. In fact, poll workers must be both Republicans and Democrats. Independents are welcome, as well, but Florida, which has party specific primaries, doesn’t have a primary for Independents.

Poll working, says Latimer, “is great civil engagement!”

I agree. Poll working is educational, non-partisan, and social. I love seeing people at the polls I haven’t seen since the last election cycle or neighbors I haven’t seen in ages. It’s great to be able to walk people through the voting process without incident or with the knowledge and resources to trouble-shoot and resolve onsite problems.

Training is job-specific and, for

the last two cycles, as much as could be done at home online was done that way. There are different job assignments including Inspector who gets voters checked in and makes sure each voter has the correct ballot and that his or her ballot has been successfully submitted. There’s even an Inspector assigned to hand out “I Voted” stickers!

There is a Clerk who oversees the whole process, and Assistance Clerk who, obviously, assists the Clerk; and there is a Deputy, who is responsible (with the Clerk) for taping off the perimeter of the polling place and keeping the polling place free of solicitors and partisan materials.

You probably didn’t realize that you can work the polls and get paid. Supervisor Latimer says, “we used to say it doesn’t pay a lot, but it’s enough to put gas in your car. Can’t say that anymore!” But it’s not bad for a two-week gig.

Voting has been made so easy here in Florida. Voters have several options: vote-by-mail; vote early, in person; or vote in person on election day. For the upcoming General Election on November 8th, there are important dates to keep in mind.

October 11 is the deadline to register to vote. If you fail to

register on time, you will not be able to vote! You will not be able to register when you show up on Election Day!

Early voting is going to be from October 24 to November 6— daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.—with a ballot drop box if you don’t want to wait in line. For those concerned about these boxes, they are rigidly guarded and picked up by the SOE office every evening during early voting.

Voters can call the SOE office to request a vote-by-mail ballot be sent to you. If it’s getting close to the October 11 deadline to register, you can go to the nearest SOE office and pick one up.

Election Day 2022 is November 8. Again, polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is very important to keep in mind that your mailin ballot must be received in the SOE office by 7 p.m. on election day. You cannot drop your mailin-ballot at the polling place on election day as it will not be received at the SOE office by 7 p.m. You can carry it in person to the SOE office before 7 p.m. on Election Day.

If you have filled out your mailin ballot but decide you want to vote in person, you can bring your mail-in ballot with you to the polling place. An inspector will invalidate it and give you a new ballot. Once your mail-in

ballot has been invalidated, you will be asked to turn it in. If you want to use your marked mail-in ballot as a “cheat sheet” in the voting booth, you may, but poll workers will ask that you turn it in after you have voted. If you left your mail-in-ballot at home, you will be asked to destroy it when you get home.

For those concerned that there may be people who vote by mail, then come to vote in person. No one is able to vote twice. If a voter has already voted by mail, polling place computers will indicate that he or she is “not eligible to vote” because he or she has already voted by mail.

Last cycle, says Latimer, 85% of the county’s 900,000 registered voters chose to vote early. Early voting numbers like that help keep Election Day lines and wait times much more manageable.

If you happen to show up at the wrong polling place, poll workers will be able to tell you where you should be going to vote and how to get there. If it cannot be determined if you are, in fact, eligible to vote, you will be given a Provisional Ballot, which is as legitimate as a regular ballot, but when it gets to the SOE office, it will be checked and eligibility will be confirmed. No eligible voter will be turned away.

Griffin Cloyd moving the ball quickly to the net. The speed of play is surprising and exciting.

Strong continued from page 1.

Rodin’s bronze sculptures are noted for their realistic facial expressions. This is a great opportunity to see work by one of the most famous sculptors.

LAWN BOWLING

TENNIS

GOLF

Senior Games Men’s and Women’s Doubles Tennis

Sun City Center Tennis Association hosts the Hillsborough Senior Games tennis matches on October 1 and 2 at the tennis courts located in the South Campus Sports Complex off of Weatherford Drive in Sun City Center. Come watch Men’s and Women’s Doubles Competitive Tennis starting at 9 a.m.

Lawn Bowling’s ‘Master of the Greens’

By Garry Higgins

The 5th annual season of the Master of the Greens competition is now in the books. After eleven weeks of qualifying rounds, eight bowlers made it through to the semifinals. In the final game it was Dave Wilson versus Paddy Lennon in a crowdpleasing ten-end game for the Championship. Paddy Lennon won and, as Champion, received the traditional “Master of the Greens’’ cap from last year’s winner, Larry Johnson.

Besides tournaments and leagues, the SCC Lawn Bowling Club has social and casual events, offers free lessons and introductory firstyear dues. The Club welcomes members of the SCC Community Association. For more information, visit suncitycenterlbc.com.

Seniors Basketball

By Bob Monahan

The South Shore Basketball Club invites all Seniors ages 50 and up to play basketball half court indoors at Ruskin Recreation Center, Ruskin on Mondays and Fridays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. inside the Ruskin Recreation Center on Southeast 6th street.

Club membership is free. However, Hillsborough County has now instituted a monthly charge to use the facilities at $10.75. Register online at “www. HCFLGov.net/Parks” or call the director Joy Robinson at 813672-7881 for more details. For Details about the club go to: “www. SouthShoreBasketball.com” or Bob Monahan 401-527-1718.

Recently a mother and her child were checking out the SCC Archery Club’s range. To join the archery club, you need to be a Community Association member or a Kings Point Gold Card holder. We offer free archery lessons plus the free use of all the equipment needed to take your lessons. For club information, call club president Mark Erickson at 810-407-1768.

PICKLEBALL

SCC Competitive Tennis Club News

Congratulations to the Sun City Center “Sunsetters” ladies tennis team on a five-line team win on August 24. Members in attendance included Helene Peterson, Phyllis Albritton, Janet Hoffman, Melody O’Sullivan, Edna Carlin, Melody Smith, Deb Zieg, Linda Bacon, Paige Haggbloom, and Lee Greenlee. Players are USTA rated 4.0 & 3.5 and compete in the ALOT league of Hillsborough County.

SCCTA US Open Watch Party

The Sun City Center Tennis Association along with Mike Irving, tennis instructor, and Julie Faulkner hosted 34 members on Sunday to watch the Men’s US Open Final Match. Guests enjoyed New York style pizza, buffalo wings, and New York cheesecake while they cheered for their favorite player. For information about the Tennis Association and our upcoming events, contact Wayne Booker at “gwbooker@hotmail.com” or Michael Irving, tennis instructor, at “michael@michaelirvinginc.com”.

#6 (124 yards), using a 7-iron. Witnessed by Carl Nunn, Harold Davies, and Terry Amstutz.

Photo of original Senior Basketball players 2017 first tournament.

Paddy Lennon (right) receives the “Master of the Greens” cap from last year’s winner, Larry Johnson.

Guarantees are backed by the financial strength of the issuing insurance company. Rates subject to change.

New Kindred Spirits Club

SCC. One day at the pool she was talking with Michelle Mason and shared her ideas. Michelle, who volunteers for Seniors in Service, loved the idea and knew exactly how to get the group started. Michelle put out notification of the first meeting to be held in September and 48 women showed up. The objective of the group is to bring

women together to get them active and out and about. The club will have one meeting each month, on the first Wednesday and two field trips a month.

The Kindred Spirits Club is under the umbrella of Seniors in Service. There is no charge to belong to the club. For more information contact Michelle Mason at 813492-8920.

By Paula Lickfeldt

Hey ladies! As life changes, we may 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 to build friendships. We will meet on the first Wednesday of every month, 3:30 until 5 p.m. at Kings Point Clubhouse meeting room. The October and November meetings will be in the KP Banquet Room. If you need a gate pass, no problem, just let us know.

Sharon Bernico was widowed early in her life so she started a widows group in her church in Illinois. When she moved to Florida over a year ago, she

started another widows group at the church she attends here. She wanted to get a group started for the women of KP and

FAITH &service

Beth Israel Sisterhood Luncheon

Tuesday, November 1, at noon

Social Hall, SCC

Jan Bassett will present our program, “A March to Women’s Suffrage from 1848-1920”. Our speaker will explain how women got the Right to Vote. In order to attend, you must be a member of Beth Israel Sisterhood. For questions or to RSVP, please email Barb at “sisterhood1@jcscc.org” or Donna at “sisterhood2@jcscc.org”.

St Andrew Presbyterian Church Community Events

Qigong Classes

Mondays at 1 p.m. and Thursdays at 11 a.m.

$5 donation per class

Info: Daline Dudley, 860-605-7868

Free Hot Lunch

Wednesdays from 11:30 to 12:30 p.m. RSVP at 813-634-1252

Tacos and Games

Tuesday, October 11, at noon

Two tacos and a beverage for $5 plus games

Purchase tickets at church office

Dessert & coffee with comedian Erick Olson

Saturday, October 15, at 7 p.m.

Comedy magic show

Tickets: $15, purchase at church office

Pizza and a Movie

Thursday, October 20, at 5 p.m.

$7 for all you can eat pizza, plus a drink and dessert

Tickets available at the church office.

Stress Management and Relaxation Program

Wednesday, October 5, through November 9

Six classes, taught by Daline Dudley, M.Ed.M.S.W.

The classes will begin at 1 pm. RSVP to 860-605-7868

Cost: $10 per class

All events held at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church 1239 Del Webb

Welcome Back Rummage Sale

Tuesday, October 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

1115 Del Webb Blvd. E. in Sun City Center

Beth Israel Congregation in Sun City Center invites everyone to our first Rummage Sale since 2019. We will be selling beautiful new and gently used items at great prices. Get there early for the best selections. We will offer clothing for men and women, shoes, accessories, housewares, glassware, linens, books, games, jewelry and home décor.

SouthShore Christian Women’s Connection Luncheon Wednesday, October 12

Life Enrichment Center, SCC United Methodist Church

Please join us for a delicious lunch and a great time to meet new friends. Our special feature will be Jackie Corley from Selah Freedom, “Bringing light into the darkness of sex trafficking”.

Tempe Brown will share her story, “Putting the Puzzle Together Without the Box”. RSVP to Amy at 317-414-9062 or email “SSCWCFlorida@gmail.com” by October 5. Please send your check made out to Stonecroft Ministries and send it to Nancy Decker, 5293 Admiral Pointe Dr., Apollo Beach, FL 33572 by October 5.

Family continued from page 1.

month of September is “Back to School.” Any back to school item such as backpacks or school supplies would be appreciated. Anyone who would like to help the Family Resource Center could volunteer for children’s activities such as reading to the children, storytelling or helping with arts and crafts.

Donations of baby items such as lotions, soaps, clothing, and diapers are always needed. Donations of non-perishable food items are greatly appreciated. Children’s games, books and toys are always in demand. For more information, call 813-641-5600.

YOU’VE ALWAYS

CARE OF YOUR FAMILY.

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.

Call the Men’s

813-633-7091

or stop by our office 1002 Cherry Hills Drive,SCC

Organizing your funeral in advance is the most loving gift you can leave your family. We can help you make your final wishes known, so your family doesn’t have to guess later.

When the time comes, your family will be relieved knowing they are remembering you just as you wanted and didn’t have to make rushed decisions while grieving. They will also find comfort knowing you’re still protecting them, even when you’re gone.

Call us today and we’ll take care of you and your family.

BOOK REVIEW

No Interview Necessary

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

I was not-so-patiently awaiting word that I had scored a brief interview with author James Patterson when I received a copy of his new autobiography: The Stories of My Life. As always, I settled in to read the new publication in advance of an interview. The more I read, the more evident it became that “no interview was necessary” [which was fortuitous, as the interview never did materialize].

I had several questions that I thought were unique and provocative, like why so many co-authored books, and how does he choose co-authors? I was surprised to find that each and every one of my questions was answered by the time I reached the end of this easyto-read collection of “stories” of the life of one of the most prolific authors of our generation. I guess my questions weren’t as unique as I had thought!

With his dozens of Alex Cross thrillers and his Women’s Murder Club series, to a mix of murder and detective mysteries, books for teens, works of non-fiction, and book shots (many co-written with a range of established and new authors) Patterson has captured the time and minds of millions of readers worldwide.

Not only does Stories of My Life, a book I confess I wasn’t all that interested in reading, give readers a glimpse into the life and times of Patterson as any autobiographical work should, my number one compound question about his co-authors— and other lesser curiosities—was so completely answered (and I won’t share those answers with you here) that it became obvious that anything he could tell me in the interview I had planned would be superfluous.

Although the Maximum Ride young adult science fantasy novels (which I have never read) were and remain not the least bit appealing to me, I have never picked up one of his books and put it down without finishing— usually in one sitting. Characters are entirely credible and multidimensional, as are the plots. Chapters, usually limited to just a few pages, make it easy to read “just one more chapter” until you find yourself at the last page of the book!

Among my favorites, in addition to the Alex Cross thrillers, are The President is Missing and The President’s Daughter co-written with Bill Clinton and The First Lady co-written with Brendan DuBois.

As a bonus, after reading a number of co-written books, I have gone on to read more of these lesser-known writers and thoroughly enjoyed their independent works, too. In closing, all I can say is: there’s a lifetime of reading to be done with Patterson and his pals, so get moving and happy reading!

Not So Instant Replays

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

Get ready, it’s coming soon! I asked Jack’s Shack owner Troy Melquist whatever possessed him and his wife, Deb, to open another dining establishment in Sun City Center. Long story short, or is it short story long? Well, says Troy, “about a year ago, we were looking for a new location to expand Jack’s Shack.” When they repeatedly heard from customers that “what Sun City Center needed was a good, reasonably priced restaurant” and word reached them that there was space available in the Sav-A-Lot Plaza, things came together for the Melquists.

Replays Family Sports Grill is slated to come to the plaza this fall. What’s a family sports grill? Well, says Melquist, “it’s not a bar, although they will serve alcohol. It’s a “no smoking” establishment with plenty of kids’ meals on the menu.”

The appeal of a family-style restaurant here in town can’t be overstated. Not only will it

offer “really good, reasonably priced hamburgers and hotdogs and big TVs” typical of sports bars; they’ll also regularly have fund raisers for the SCC Emergency Squad and football jersey giveaways every Sunday during football season.

The location next to Tuesday Morning is perfect for SCC residents—a golf cart ride away for most, strategically/ centrally situated in the midst of basic shopping, the post office, and a broad range of doctors’ offices and banks. Opening date isn’t set yet, but it is coming soon, so stay tuned.

Pelican Players Presents “Nana’s Naughty Knickers”

October 20 to 23

“Nana’s Naughty Knickers,” a fast-paced farce by playwright Katherine DiSavino, is the third main-stage production offered this year by the Pelican Players Community Theater of Sun City Center.

“Audiences may assume they know what’s coming by the play’s title but, as in any good comedy, there are hysterical and comedic twists and turns around every corner,” said Bruce MacDonald, director of the show. “What attracted me to directing this play wasn’t just the curious assortment of eclectic characters but the fact that the set is also a character in its own right. It is full of surprises, just like the play itself.”

Nana is running an illegal boutique from her apartment, selling hand-made naughty knickers to every senior citizen in the five boroughs. Will her Nana get arrested — or worse! — evicted? A wonderfully light-hearted play about a lively grandmother with a creative way of keeping her life interesting. Entertaining

and laugh-out-loud funny from beginning to end.

Audiences will have five opportunities to see the play: Thursday, October 20, at 7 p.m.; Friday, October 21, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, October 22, at 1:30 and 7 p.m.; and Sunday, October 23, at 2 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes prior to curtain. Tickets are on sale at the Kings Point Box Office from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday. Evening performances are $16; $13 for matinees. Tickets will also be sold at the door for each show. All performances are at the Kings Point Veterans Theater in the North Clubhouse, 1900 Clubhouse Drive in Sun City Center.

The role of Nana is being played by Jeanne Naish; Bridget is played by Kim Droege; Vera by Judy Rodman; Tom O’Grady by Jack Parry; Mr. Schmidt by Dan Tackitt; Heather by Lucy Malacos; Clair by Wendy Smith; with Jimmy Sapia and Ken Rodman rounding out the cast.

Joy Dunn is assistant director, and Kevin Steinke is stage manager.

Friendly Fish

an email with your contact information : sallymizerak@seniorinsuranceflorida.com and I’ll call you. Let’s Connect and Start the Conversation!

SALLY MIZERAK

Call: 813-633-3743 Text: 813-334-0784 Email: sallymizerak@seniorinsuranceflorida.com

always get you home

This fish looks like he’s saying “Hi, welcome to the Florida Aquarium.” Several members of the SCC Photo Club went there on a recent field trip. (Photo by Bob Sanchez)

Events

By Debbie Caneen

is provided

by Debbie Caneen, Director of Admissions, Sun Towers from items submitted for publication. 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

MONDAYS, OCT 3, 10, 17, 22, 29 - A NEW YOU, PINK

BOUTIQUE 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center. The shop carries an array of breast cancer apparel, including a zip-front, post-surgical camisole with drain management; breast prostheses; wigs; mastectomy bras; pocketed swimwear; shapers; and more. Women can come in to shop instead of having to drive to Brandon or shop online. Accepted insurance includes Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Aetna, Tricare, CarePlus and more. For more information, email anupinkboutique.com or call 813-661-7465.

MONDAYS, OCT 3, 10, 17, 22, 29 - PARKINSON’S BOXING

CLASSES 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center, FL Join Caroline Futch (Affiliate owner/Head Coach of Rock Steady Boxing Southshore, FL & Southshore PD Fitness). A full hour class includes warm up, stretching, voice activation, circuit training, balance and strength training along with fun exercises for cognitive therapy. For info or to register: Coach Caroline, 352.274.4883 “southshorepdfitness@gmail. com” visit website: southshorefl. rsbaffiliate.com.

WEDNESDAYS, OCT 5, 12, 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. Our therapists have advanced training in 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.

WED. OCT 5 - NOV 9STRESS MANAGEMENT AND RELAXATION PROGRAM The classes will begin at 1:00 p.m. at St Andrew Presbyterian Church 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd. The topics to be covered will be progressive relaxation; breathing techniques; simple body movements which lower the heart and respiration rate, and meditation. For more information and to register, call 860-605-7868. A donation of $10 per class is suggested.

THU. OCT 6, 13, 20, 27PARTNERS 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. Partners in Network links professionals together to facilitate referralbased business growth. Our members develop strong longterm working relationships based on trust and proven results. Join us! Questions? Call Debbie Caneen 813-892-2990.

THU. OCT 6 - CRAFT BEER & WINE CLUB OF SUN CITY CENTER 1:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. If you are a resident of Sun City Center or Kings Point, you are invited to join us! We will be coming together 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! If you are interested in making your own craft beer or wine and tasting local offerings, check us out “facebook.com/groups/ craftbeerandwineclub”.

SAT. OCT 8 - 5TH ANNUAL HOWL-O-WEEN Pet Costume Contest 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 Located at the Mary and Martha House, 312 US Hwy 41 S, Ruskin. There will be a market from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. with tons of vendors offering goods and services! The Pet Parade and Judging of the costumes will take place at noon. The cost is $5 cash per pet or $10 for a family of pets. The entry fee will be collected at the time of registration at the Kittie Corral booth! All pets are welcome to enter the contest.

TUE. OCT 11 – GREATER SCC REGISTERED NURSES CLUB 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Sun City Center. Free valet parking will be available at the entrance. Upon arrival, please check in at the front desk and then join us in the theater. All RNs residing in Sun City Center, any neighborhood, are invited to attend. Call Vivian Hodgkin, RN at 802-309-4392 or Lynne Murphy, RN at 813-6346707 for more information.

THU. OCT 13 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING FOR KINGS POINT RESIDENTS 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. in the Culinary Room at the 2020

Center, Kings Point. Are you at risk? Our therapists from Sun Towers Retirement Community are on a quest to reduce the risk of falls before they happen. Have your fall risk screened at no cost to you! This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Interested in knowing more now? Free Screening is offered the 2nd Thursday of each month 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. Call to schedule today (813) 331-3035

FRI. OCT 14 – LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. AT Sun Towers Retirement Community 101 Trinity Lakes Drive. Our guest speaker this month is Kelly Ward, aka The Fall Prevention Lady, is a certified Z-Health Neuro-Performance Coach and FallProof™ Balance and Mobility Specialist. The science of neuroplasticity is real. The results are immediate. These programs are designed to help people gain the skills needed to perform daily living tasks independently through assistive technology and devices.

MON. OCT 17 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP OF SCC 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center in the theater. Our speakers will be William Parker owner of DeliveRxd Pharmacy and Thomas Brown Doctor of Pharmacy Intern from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Jennipher Lenoir, COTA with Sun Towers Outpatient Therapy Department will facilitate. 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. OCT 18 - SCC HUMAN HISTORY 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Do you really know your neighbor? No, this is not the opening of a scary movie but rather the goal of our newest club. There is so much history to be shared in the varied backgrounds of our Sun City Center neighbors and we want to uncover and celebrate that history! Join us for a fun round of meet your neighbor (and they meet you). Our end goal is bringing our community closer together and unearthing our history will do just that! Questions? Call Debbie 813-8922990.

WED. OCT 19 - VETERANS HISTORY PROJECT 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. Civilians who served in support of a US war effort in a professional capacity are South continued on page 20.

Miniatures from Lakeland, Florida to England

By Ilona Merritt

The last weekend in June was an exciting time for the members of the Lakeland Miniature Guild. Over the previous two years, the annual show had to be canceled because of COVID. The excitement ran high with the anticipation of this year’s show. We had more visitors this year, more participants, and more vendors. During pre-show days, classes were offered by excellent teachers and were filled. Participants came from all parts of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Ohio.

A miniature is a small-scale reproduction or a small version of almost anything an artist can produce. It is interesting to watch a group of miniature artists take on a project; when finished, each will look different, yet each is an excellent piece of beauty. Special this year was an English Village. Members of the Guild started a 1/4 scale project in 2019 to be an English Village. Almost all members participated in this project.

We ordered English Cottage kits direct from Petit Properties in England. Many styles were represented, and each cottage had a distinct look when each member finished it. The village was on a six-by-four-foot board. A Gristmill was the start of a river that ran into a small lake. The layout was partially elevated, and when the village was finished and the landscaping was done, the whole project looked very realistic, and we felt that the town looked authentic. 2022 is

South continued from page 19.

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. OCT 20 - FREE BALANCE SCREENING FOR SCC RESIDENTS

10:00 - 12:00 noon at Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Are you at risk? Our therapists from Sun Towers Retirement Community are on a quest to reduce the risk of falls before they happen. Have your fall risk screened at no cost to you! This simple screening takes less than ten minutes. See the results before your eyes through biofeedback. Interested in knowing more now? Free Screening is offered the 2nd Thursday of each month 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. - Call to schedule today! (813) 331-3035.

THU. OCT 20 - VETERANS CLUB

1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Drive, Sun City Center. Are you a Veteran? Join Seniors in Service for this monthly club meeting where Veterans will receive resources and companionship. Our speaker this month is Paul Wheat from the American Legion. Paul Wheat enlisted in the US Army right after graduating from high school, served over nine years active service before receiving a direct commission; then went

the year of Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee. In her honor, many British Flags were made to decorate the layout, and a quarter-scale miniature of the Queen, along with two of her Corgis, enjoyed sitting by the Lake and being entertained by Paddington Bear, a fictional character from British children’s literature. There were so many small details in this project that visitors returned several times to take another look.

Every year the Guild has special projects which lend themselves to personal interpretations, and this year we had two years of creations on display in the Funday section. This year our Funday project was a French Patisserie shop which was presented in a delightful, ornamental, theater-style cart on wheels. Included was a specially designed wall unit to showcase delicious pastries. In 2020 the Lakeland Miniature Project was a She Shed, the kind of private space every woman

on to serve 20 more years of active service and retired as a US Army Lieutenant Colonel.

THU. OCT 27 - PROMOTING INDEPENDENCE FOR THOSE WITH LOW VISION

10:00 - 11:00 a.m. at Prince of Peace Catholic Church’s Conesa Center, 702 Valley Forge Blvd, SCC, FL. Tampa’s Lighthouse for the Blind & Low Vision provides training in visual rehabilitation techniques to help improve visual functioning using Optical aids and devices as well as Non-Optical. Aids and devices may include handheld and stand magnifiers, Closed Circuit TV’s, and much more. Join POP’s Health Ministry for a presentation on this very important service available to SCC. RSVP by 10/24 via the following link: www.popcc.org/ health-ministry.

THU. OCT 27 - HEALTHY HABITS LEARNING SERIES

1:30 – 3:00 p.m. at Sun Towers 101 Trinity Lakes Drive for “Staying Healthy and Preventing Falls: Everyday Strategies”. Join us for an interactive and informative talk on strategies to help us stay healthy and reduce the number of falls as we age, with a focus on keeping our mind and bodies healthy and keeping our homes safe. This talk will be led by an interprofessional team of health professionals from Gannon University, who will share their knowledge from their unique points of view.

Special this year was an English Village.

dreams about having. Despite canceled shows, the mail went through, and a lot of our friends did their projects at home. Window shopping around the world took our imaginations to many interesting places. During the regular shows, we also had

children’s workshops on Sunday afternoons, along with the children’s buying section.

Seeing members and volunteers work hand in hand to make this year’s show successful was fantastic. Thank You to All!

Quarter-scale miniature of the Queen, along with two of her Corgis.

French Patisserie shop which was presented in a delightful, ornamental, theater-style cart on wheels.

Michelle Halcomb, D.D.S. General

So

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