We have an exciting and productive quarter to review, so let’s begin with irrigation— always one of our most active operational areas.
Irrigation Department Update
This quarter, our in-house irrigation team completed an impressive 995 work orders, 143 inspections, 29 alterations, and responded to 20 emergency calls. Among the major repairs were 49 mainline repairs, 26 valve replacements, 84 lateral line breaks, 17 lateral line reroutes, and 10 pump repairs. The team also repaired or replaced 7 gate valves, 11 control boxes, 11 breakers, 11 Baseline control boards, and 10 Baseline radios. Additional work included replacing 16 decoders, one Badger meter, and one twowire board, as well as making four pump station repairs, two pressure release valve repairs, three modem replacements, four timing relay replacements, and several antenna and antenna wire repairs.
Many of these efforts involved Baseline components, and our warranty continues to be a valuable resource. This quarter, the warranty saved us $22,848, bringing our total year-to-date savings to $33,814. Last year alone, the warranty saved the community more than $107,000. With three years remaining on the current warranty, we are now exploring equipment upgrades that could extend this protection for an additional five years.
Pattern & Coverage
All associations on both the upper and lower irrigation loops have now been completed, with the exception of Lancaster 2, Lancaster 4, and Highgate 4. The Board has approved completing these final three on the lower loop, which will officially close out that portion of the project. The remaining work on the Pattern and Coverage portion has been temporarily paused to give the newly seated
We are pleased to extend our warmest congratulations to the newly elected members of the Master Association Board of Directors: Jim Allen, Jerry Billa, Jim Richter, and Rodney Walker. Each of these individuals brings a unique blend of experience, leadership, and dedication, and we are confident that their contributions will greatly benefit the Kings Point community.
As we look ahead to the coming year, we are excited about the knowledge and expertise our new directors bring to the table. Their backgrounds in areas such as construction and irrigation will play an important role as the Board continues its work to maintain and improve our facilities, support longterm planning, and foster a thriving and well-managed community. Their insight and commitment will be invaluable as we continue moving Kings Point forward.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the many wonderful candidates who applied and participated in this
Strengthening Our Community: Q2 Initiatives and Achievements
Board time to review the scope of the project, evaluate the costbenefit, and determine next steps.
The Master Association has also launched a new Daily Outage Report on Enumerate. Residents can access it by navigating to Community Pages, then to Irrigation, and selecting Daily Outage Report. This report provides improved transparency on irrigation outages and includes estimated repair timelines to help keep residents informed. We will continue refining the information, especially by zone, to enhance detail and accuracy.
2025 Paving Project
The 2025 Paving Project was completed. A total of 214,442 square yards across seven roads were resurfaced. Although our contract required a 1.5inch compacted depth, we achieved an average of two full inches, providing a longer-lasting surface. This was our final year of locked-in pricing, allowing us to pay $16 per square foot, which is significantly lower than today’s market rates of $18 to $24.
The total cost for the project was $413,492, bringing us in $135,000 under budget. Punch list work is ongoing and includes driveway cleaning, a small paver repair, and a drain box repair in Southampton. The Southampton drain box will be addressed when Rose Paving is onsite for the Finsbury and Halcyon repair.
Ongoing Community Initiatives
The Master Association continues to focus on several important longterm initiatives. We are proceeding with the claim against FCC to ensure the community is properly compensated for the hydraulic oil spill that occurred earlier this year. Efforts are also underway to extend the lease on the closed golf course
year’s election. Your willingness to step up, serve, and invest your time in the betterment of Kings Point speaks volumes about our community spirit. We hope you will remain involved and consider lending your talents by joining one of our committees or volunteering in other meaningful ways throughout the year.
We are also pleased to announce the newly elected officers for 2025. Rodney Walker will serve as President, bringing strong leadership and a clear vision for the year ahead. Jim Allen will take on the role of Vice President, continuing his dedication to the community in a new capacity. Rob Davies will serve as Secretary, ensuring clear communication and smooth administrative operations. Rounding out the team, Sandy Collins will continue to provide her financial expertise as Treasurer.
Together, this Board is poised to guide Kings Point through another productive and successful year, and we look forward to the progress and positive momentum that lie ahead.
areas, which are heavily used by residents for walking, biking, and other recreational activities.
Infrastructure and safety improvements remain a priority. Thermostriping of the Master roadways is moving forward to improve visibility. Verizon has confirmed that the previously delayed Cell Tower Project is officially back in motion, although a timeline has not yet been provided. We will update the community as soon as more information becomes available.
Clearing of Cypress Creek is still pending final permitting approval, but if all goes as planned, work is expected to begin in early 2026. We are also developing a Preventative Stormwater Plan to proactively address drainage issues before they escalate. Safety improvements will continue with the installation of new four-way stop intersections at some of our busiest roadways.
From a financial and planning perspective, an official Reserve Study will be conducted in the coming year. This ensures our longterm maintenance and funding strategies remain accurate and sustainable. The Finance Committee has completed the proposed 2026–2027 budget, which has been approved by the Board at $92.50 per unit per month. This represents a monthly increase of $6.49 per unit, or a 7.55 percent overall increase.
Disaster preparedness remains an essential focus. The Disaster Planning Committee is working closely with Hillsborough County Emergency Management to develop mock emergency scenarios that will be presented to the community’s Boards next year. Our annual Disaster Workshop for Board Members is scheduled for March 13, 2026, followed by a
Jerry Bila is a seasoned Electrical Engineer and Senior Project Manager with over 30 years of experience in commercial electrical systems, data center operations, and largescale construction. He has led multimillion-dollar projects with a focus on compliance, efficiency, and on-time delivery.
Jerry previously served as Senior Project Manager at Holder Construction and Data Center Facilities Manager at The Home Depot. He holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Kennedy Western University and is an active member of the Sun City Center Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).
December 2025
Community Symposium on April 23, 2026. These events ensure that Kings Point leadership remains trained, informed, and ready for emergencies.
Technology Upgrades
The Starlink internet system at the Master Association office has been upgraded to include a failover switch and battery backup. This means that if our main provider experiences an outage, the system will automatically switch to Starlink, ensuring continuity of communications and emergency operations. This upgrade will also allow residents access to communication resources after a storm or other outage.
Environmental Initiatives
Our Pond Committee continues to make significant progress in improving, restoring, and beautifying our ponds. Through the Hillsborough County AdoptA-Pond Program and a $3,825 grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, the committee has planted 13,400 native plants across eight ponds. A $3,000 Audubon grant supported the removal of invasive species and the planting of 10 Red Maple trees and eight Bald Cypress trees. The committee is actively applying for additional funding, including a $15,000 Audubon grant.
The Stormwater and Pond Education Series will resume on November 25, 2025, with a presentation by Dr. Eban Bean from the University of Florida. Additional seminar dates will be announced once confirmed.
Thank you all for your continued support and engagement. This has been a productive quarter with major progress across infrastructure, safety, technology, and community initiatives. We look forward to continued success in the months ahead.
Jim Richter is an accomplished operations leader with extensive experience in irrigation management, customer service, and team development. Over his career, he has successfully directed multi-state government contracts and managed largescale landscaping and irrigation operations. Jim holds an M.B.A. from Tampa College and a B.A. in Industrial Psychology from the University of South Florida. Known for his strong leadership, quality control expertise, and ability to drive efficiency, he has consistently delivered results in both government and privatesector roles.
The Kings Point Holiday Committee is proud to announce that Forgotten Angels has been chosen as the charity to benefit from this year’s Celebration of the Holidays event. This remarkable nonprofit organization, located in Lithia, Florida, is dedicated to helping young adults who have aged out of the foster care system or who find themselves without family support as they transition into adulthood. Forgotten Angels provides a safe and nurturing environment where these individuals can learn, grow, and gain the confidence and life skills they need to build independent, successful lives.
Earlier this year, Master General Manager Shawna, Holiday Committee Chair Barbara Streeter, and Communication Coordinator Cheryl visited the Forgotten Angels property to learn more about their mission and to see firsthand how the organization operates. The group toured the
The holiday season is fast approaching, and it’s time once again to fill the North Clubhouse hallways with sparkling creativity and festive cheer! Kings Point residents, clubs, organizations, and condo or homeowner associations are invited to participate in this cherished tradition by donating a decorated tree or wreath to benefit a wonderful local cause.
This year’s event will support Forgotten Angels in Valrico, a nonprofit organization that helps young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. Forgotten Angels provides them with the resources, guidance, and opportunities to build independent, successful lives. To learn more about their mission, visit forgottenangelsflorida.org.
Participants are encouraged to donate a new or nearly new, themed, decorated artificial
The Kings Point community is delighted to announce that the 5th Annual Celebration of the Holidays will take place on Monday, December 8th, from 4:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. throughout the North Clubhouse and Veterans Theatre. This highly anticipated event has become one of the most festive traditions of the year, bringing residents together to enjoy an evening filled with delicious food, lively entertainment, and holiday cheer. Guests will be treated to a collection of entrée tastings, decadent desserts, and a variety of adult beverages. The clubhouse will be transformed into a holiday marketplace where numerous Kings Point clubs and local vendors will offer unique shopping opportunities—perfect for finding those last-minute gifts. Santa Claus will also be making a special appearance for photos, adding to the excitement and holiday spirit of the evening.
One of the highlights of the Celebration of the Holidays is the raffle, which offers residents the chance to win thousands
Forgotten Angels Selected as This Year’s Celebration of the Holidays Charity
facility, which includes small, cozy homes built on the property to provide transitional housing for the young adults in the program.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Forgotten Angels is that the young adults themselves play an active role in building their future—literally. They learn handson construction skills by helping to build their own tiny homes on the property. This process teaches valuable trade skills, fosters pride and responsibility, and gives them a true sense of ownership. Once a participant is ready to move on to independent living, they have the opportunity to sell their tiny home, using the proceeds as seed money to begin the next chapter of their life—whether that means renting an apartment, buying a vehicle, or furthering their education. In addition to their life-changing programs, Forgotten Angels has developed unique and creative ways to fund their mission. Much of their financial support comes
from motorcycle auctions, featuring bikes that are generously donated by supporters, as well as motorcycle rallies and fundraising events held on their Lithia property. These gatherings not only raise essential funds but also bring together a community of caring individuals who share a passion for helping others while celebrating camaraderie and the open road.
Through these efforts, Forgotten Angels has grown from a small grassroots idea into a powerful force for change—offering young adults not only shelter but the tools, mentorship, and confidence to build a sustainable future. Their hands-on approach has touched countless lives and continues to inspire others to step forward and make a difference.
By selecting Forgotten Angels as the Celebration of the Holidays charity recipient, the Kings Point Holiday Committee hopes to help further their mission and shine a
Help Deck the Halls and Support a Great Cause!
tree (2’–6’) or wreath, which will be displayed throughout the North Clubhouse. These beautiful creations will be available for bidding by Kings Point residents and guests from [TBD dates], with bid sheets conveniently located in the lobby.
Let your imagination shine! Whether you go for traditional red and green, coastal holiday
charm, or something uniquely creative, your design will add to the magic of the season—and help raise funds for a meaningful cause. Hanukkah-themed decorations are also warmly welcomed and appreciated.
This beloved annual festival has become one of Kings Point’s most anticipated seasonal events, celebrating the joy of giving,
of dollars in prizes donated by Kings Point vendors and local businesses. Prizes include a $1,000 Amazon gift card, a Gasparilla Inn weekend getaway, a $1,700 set of car tires with a car care kit, and various other gift cards and items.
This year’s event will also serve a meaningful purpose, as all proceeds will benefit Forgotten Angels, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young adults who have aged out of the foster care system. Forgotten Angels provides these young men and women with the opportunity to build their own tiny homes while learning valuable life skills that prepare them for independence. Once the young adults are ready to move on, they are able to sell
spotlight on the positive impact they are making in the Tampa Bay area and beyond. Funds raised during this year’s festivities will go directly toward supporting housing, educational programs, and life-skills training for the young adults served by Forgotten Angels. This holiday season, the committee encourages all residents to come together in the spirit of giving and compassion. Your participation and generosity during the Celebration of the Holidays will help make a lasting difference for the young people whose futures are being rebuilt—one angel at a time.
artistry, and community spirit. Festival Application Forms with full details are available beginning October 5th at the front desks in the North and South Clubhouses and the 20/20 Center.
This event is proudly sponsored by the Kings Point Leadership Team. For more information, please contact Sue Martucci, Coordinator, at suemartucci@gmail.com.
Join us in making the season bright—for both Kings Point and the community we support!
Seating is limited, and wristbands will not be sold on the night of the event. One hundred percent of dining admission proceeds will go directly to Forgotten Angels.
their tiny homes and use the funds to begin their next chapter in life. The organization receives most of its funding through motorcycle raffles, donated auctions, and bike rallies held on its property, making community support events like this one especially important.
Residents interested in attending are encouraged to visit the Kings Point Main Clubhouse anytime between 4:15 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. to take part in the festivities. Guests can enjoy the holiday atmosphere, shop with vendors, participate in raffles, and bid on decorated trees and wreaths. Dining admission wristbands are $5.00 each and include entrée tastings during one of two seatings, from 4:15 to 6:15 p.m. or 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Raffle tickets are available for $1.00 each, food tickets are $3.00 and may be redeemed for a single menu item, and beverage tickets are $5.00, redeemable for one adult beverage or two sodas. All tickets can be purchased in advance or at the event, with payments accepted by card, cash, or check. Checks for dining admission and raffle tickets should be made payable to Forgotten Angels, while food and beverage payments should be made payable to Vesta.
The Celebration of the Holidays promises to be an evening filled with community spirit, holiday joy, and the satisfaction of supporting an incredible cause. For more information about the event, visit www.kpmaster.com/ holidays. To learn more about Forgotten Angels and the inspiring work they do, please visit www. forgottenangelsflorida.org.
Beware of the “IT Support” Scam: Don’t Fall for Fear Tactics
By: Master Deputy Jeffery E. Merry Jr
Scammers are getting more sophisticated every day, and one of the newest tricks targets seniors by using fear and shame to gain control of their computers and money. This scam starts with a frightening message claiming that your computer has been found with illegal or explicit material, such as child pornography, and that you could face arrest unless you take immediate action.
How the Scam Works
1.The Scare Message
You may see a pop-up on your screen saying your computer has been “locked by the FBI” or “flagged for illegal content.”
It may include an official-looking logo, warning sounds, or a fake “case number” to make it look real.
2.The Fake Helper
The message usually provides a phone number or link for “technical support” or “security verification.”
When you call or click, a scammer poses as a technician or law enforcement representative. They often sound professional and urgent.
3.The Hook
The scammer may ask for remote access to your computer, claiming they can remove the “illegal files.”
Once connected, they may:
•Steal personal or financial data
•Install malware
•Demand payment to “resolve” the issue or “clear your name” What to Do if This Happens
•Do NOT call any phone number
listed on the warning message.
•Do NOT click any links or allow remote access to your computer.
•Turn off your computer immediately.
•Contact a trusted local technician or the store where you purchased your computer.
•Report the scam to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
How to Protect Yourself
•Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated.
•Never share personal information or payment details with someone who contacts you unexpectedly.
•Be skeptical of fear-based messages — government agencies will never lock your computer or demand money this way.
•Stay informed. Talk about scams with friends, family, and neighbors so everyone stays protected.
Remember
Fear is the scammer’s favorite tool. If something feels urgent or threatening, pause and verify before you act. Taking a moment to breathe and ask for help can prevent serious financial and emotional harm.
If you have any question, comments, or concerns, please contact Master Deputy Jeff Merry at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Sun City Center Substation, 813-242-5515.
What are the invasive species in Kings Point?
Part 1 of a series
Today I will begin a series of articles about the invasive species that are prevalent in Kings Point. To begin with we will cover the invasive fish species that are common in multiple Kings Point Ponds.
Tilapia: Oreochromis aureus
Tilapia are mainly freshwater fish native to Africa and the Middle East, inhabiting shallow streams, ponds, rivers, and lakes, and less commonly found living in brackish water.
Tilapia are considered invasive in many parts of the world due to their ability to outcompete native species for food and space, rapid reproduction, and adaptability to various habitats. They can disrupt ecosystems by altering food webs and impacting native fish populations, and their spread is often facilitated by human activity, such as dumping from aquariums or using them as bait.
Tilapia are aggressive in their competition with native fish for food and habitat. Their ability to reproduce quickly contributes to their invasive success. Some species can survive in a wide range of conditions, including different salinities and water temperatures, allowing them to thrive in new environments. Studies have shown that tilapia can negatively affect native species by changing their feeding habits and impacting the overall health of the ecosystem. Once established, tilapia are very difficult to remove from an
ecosystem.
Armored Catfish: Loricariidae sp.
Armored catfish, also known as plecos, are a family of bottomdwelling fish native to South America that are identified by their bony plates, sucker-like mouths, and spines. They are often introduced to new environments through the aquarium trade, where they can thrive due to their ability to live in a variety of habitats and tolerate low oxygen levels. These fish are considered an invasive species in many regions because their burrowing can cause bank erosion and they can outcompete native wildlife for food resources.
They are native to tropical South America and Panama. They were introduced largely through the aquarium trade. They are primarily freshwater but some can tolerate brackish water. Mostly nocturnal bottom dwellers they breathe even in low oxygen environments and can survive outside the water for short periods of time. In addition, they can actually walk on land from one pond to another if the ponds are located close together.
They are very destructive and dig burrows in the banks of rivers and ponds to lay their eggs. Males guard the nests and once the burrow collapses, they burrow again causing increasing damage to the shoreline.
Armored Catfish survive on algae and detritus which makes them difficult to eliminate as they normally are not attracted to lures or bait. Netting, spearing, or bow fishing are the most successful ways of controlling this pest.
Upcoming Holiday Preparations
By Lynn Barber UF/IFAS Extension Agent
The excitement is mounting. Which holiday decorations from an entire walk-in closet will I select to showcase this year? The purpose of a walk-in closet is that you can walk in, determine what you want to display or who may receive your priceless decorations. Most people enjoy holidays, but not all. If you are one of the disinclined, you can still consider involving yourself and others an activity or two below that can benefit you and others.
Purchase or dig up one of your favorite landscape plants and repot it for a friend. It helps to include plant care details, such as sun or shade, water, soil, and fertilizer.
Purchase a holiday plant – a Christmas cactus or small Christmas tree to decorate a table. Amaryllis adds a huge pop of color in groups
of 10 or more. Gardenia has beautiful, fragrant white flowers and can reach a height of 4-8 feet. Paperwhite narcissus should be placed in a cool, dark room until shoot growth occurs. Rosemary topiary is a great scented gift for cooks and gardeners. It can reach 80 feet when mature.
I was fortunate to have a friend who gave me homemade holiday ornaments for many years. I think of her fondly every time I walk by that tree.
Offer a service to your friends that need help or don’t have the inclination to complete. They may need a ride to an appointment, help pruning a shrub, weeding a landscape bed or decorating their holiday tree. Consider gifting plants that are easy to propagate, such as bromeliads and African violets.
Spend time with friends that you see on rare occasions. Go to see them or invite them to come to your home. Do something fun together. That could be taking a walk, making cookies, decorating a tree, hanging stockings or collecting pinecones for a basket. Walking a trail or around the block is good exercise. It’s even more fun accompanied by a friend or relative. Fresh air is always a plus.
Kings Point Community Raises Over $21,000 for Moffitt Cancer Center
SUN CITY CENTER, FL — On October 24, the Kings Point community came together for a spirited fundraiser supporting cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center. The event raised $21,418.00 through ticket sales and donations, with additional contributions made directly to the Moffitt Foundation via QR code. The check was presented to the Moffitt Foundation by the “Strike Out Cancer KP” committee joined by the volunteers who made this event an unforgettable one.
A Night of Music and Meaning
The evening opened with a special performance by The ReMissions, a band formed in 2020 by Dr. Patrick Hwu, President and CEO of Moffitt Cancer Center. The group is composed entirely of Moffitt staff—from security and research to nursing and radiology—who use music to process emotions, find balance, and connect beyond their roles in cancer care.
Emcee Joe LaLuna kept the crowd engaged, while DJ Doug Higgs of
MARK YOUR CALENDARS…. COA WINE & CHEESE GALA EVENT
The COA’s popular Wine & Cheese Gala is coming Back! Thursday, February 5, 2026 6:00pm - 9:00pm Veterans Theater
•Wine and Cheese
•Music by Down Home (DancingMusic)
•Many prizes (Must be present to win!)
•Tickets on sale 12/1/2025 – 1/23/2026 9:00 – 11:30 AM Monday - Friday
$15.00/person – sold at the COA
•Tickets: Available First Come First Serve
•Open to all Kings Point Residents
Twisted Vibes, joined by his wife, provided lively entertainment. Both are well-known in the community as singers and karaoke DJs.
Community Generosity
In the months leading up to the event, Kings Point residents and clubs contributed gift baskets, raffle items, and silent auction donations. Local businesses from Apollo Beach, Ruskin, and Riverview also offered generous support, including a notable donation from the Tomiak Foundation.
The event was organized by the “Strike Out Cancer KP” committee and supported by a team of volunteers. Their combined efforts turned the evening into a memorable celebration of compassion and community spirit. Looking Ahead Plans are already underway for the 2nd Annual Moffitt Cancer Center Fundraiser, scheduled for 2026. Themed as a Pink & Black Ball, the event promises another unforgettable evening for a vital cause.
COA BUSINESS MEETING: 2:00 PM, MONDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2025
LOCATION: Banquet Room - Main Clubhouse
COA LIGHT DECORATING CONTEST: EVENING DECEMBER 19, 2025
PRIZES: First Place: $300
Second Place: $200 Third Place: $100
COA HOLIDAY GOLF CART PARADE: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20 at 10:00 AM.
LOCATION: Leaving from North Clubhouse
PRIZES: First Place: $300
Second Place: $200 Third Place: $100
For the month of December, the Kings Point community proudly honors Alma Holl as our Volunteer of the Month. Alma’s dedication, warmth, and willingness to help others have made her an invaluable part of our neighborhood and a shining example of community spirit. Alma is originally from Carter County, Kentucky, where she grew up on a small college campus. Before retiring, she built a meaningful career in Academic Affairs, working at both Transylvania University and Otterbein University.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Alma has a variety of interests that reflect her caring and curious nature — including her time as a beekeeper. Tending to her bees taught her patience, precision, and the importance of balance, qualities that continue to serve her well in her community involvement today.
In 2021, after visiting her daughter in Riverview, Alma discovered Kings Point. She immediately fell in love with the community’s welcoming atmosphere and decided to make it her home.
Alma’s most visible contribution is her role in attending and documenting management meetings. She takes detailed notes at every meeting and shares them with residents, ensuring that those unable to attend still have access to important updates and decisions.
In addition, Alma serves as the secretary for Gloucester J, where she continues to demonstrate her strong organizational skills and dedication to helping others.
We are honored to recognize Alma Holl as our December Volunteer of the Month. Thank you, Alma, for your generosity of time, your commitment to communication, and your unwavering support of the Kings Point community. You help make our neighborhood the special place it is today!
