To improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, and golf cart traffic, a new 3-way stop will be installed at the intersection of Fox Hunt Drive and Kings Boulevard. Installation is anticipated in February, pending final scheduling confirmation from the vendor. The official installation date will be announced as soon as it is confirmed.
This intersection has been carefully evaluated, and the change is being implemented as part of our ongoing efforts to improve traffic safety, visibility, and overall traffic flow throughout the community.
What’s Changing
•Stop signs will be installed at each
approach
New 3-Way Stop Coming to Fox Hunt Drive & Kings Boulevard
•STOP AHEAD warning signs with yellow flashing lights will be installed in advance of the intersection
•STOP pavement markings will be installed at the stop bars
•Stop bars and thermoplastic striping will be installed
•Installation will occur overnight to minimize disruption
Community Education & Awareness Campaign
To ensure residents are well informed and prepared for this change, the Master Association will implement a community-
wide education and awareness campaign in advance of the installation. This will include multiple communications through email, social media, website updates, and community postings, as well as on-site visual warnings such as signage and pavement markings. Temporary signs will be placed at the intersection to alert residents to the upcoming change, and follow-up communications will continue after installation to reinforce awareness and safe driving behaviors.
February 2026
Why This Matters
This traffic improvement is being implemented to enhance safety for all roadway users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and golf cart traffic. The new 3-way stop will help slow vehicle speeds, improve driver awareness, reduce conflict points, and improve visibility at the intersection. These changes are intended to reduce accident risk and create a safer environment for residents and visitors throughout the community. As always, resident safety is a top priority. Additional updates will be shared as soon as the installation date is confirmed.
The Master Association is pleased to welcome the newest members appointed to its committees. Following a recent call for volunteers, the response from the community was overwhelming, highlighting the strong commitment of residents to actively participate in the governance and success of the community.
Due to the high level of interest, the Master Association expanded its committee structure by creating two new committees in addition to those already established. The newly appointed committee members were formally approved by the Board through motions at the Board Meeting held 1/7/2026.
Stormwater and Pond Committee
Chair: Steve Ashton
Members: Annie Collyer, Paul Hubert, Ellen Thomas, John Brownell, Janice Russeau, and Georgina Smith
Liaison: Rob Davies
Master Association Welcomes New Committee Members
Chair: Barbara Streeter
Members: Chris Robinson, Cynthia Harden, Patricia Malamas, and Pauline Andrews
Liaison: George Cordelli
Chair: Richard Resnick
Members: David Block, David
Schmidknecht, George Dyball, Theresa Jones, Mark
Schut and Steve McGuire
Liaison: Sandy Collins
Irrigation Committee
Chair: Matt Yarmel
Members: Richard Printy, Cynthia Shue-Claeys, Edward
Contract Committee
Chair: Denise Westerveldt
Members: Barbara Payne, Stephen Brenner, Patrick Wormser, and Joe Rutigiliano Liaison: Jerry Billa
Disaster Preparedness Committee
Chair: Mary Ann Meeker
Members: Deborah Lappay, Keith Lindsay, Mike Bardell, and Shirley Bardell
Liaison: Jim Allen
The Master Association thanks all residents who volunteered their time and talents. The dedication of these committee members plays a vital role in supporting the community and ensuring thoughtful planning and oversight across all areas of operation.
Allen, Denise Westerveldt, Jack Dunlea, and Steve McGuire, Liaison: Jim Richter
Chek Presentation for Forgotten Angels
At the Master Association Board Meeting, Kings Point proudly presented the official check for funds raised during the community’s Celebration of the Holidays. Thanks to the incredible generosity of residents and volunteers, a total of $27,920 was raised for Forgotten Angels.
During the presentation, the community had the opportunity to
meet Cindy and David, with Cindy being the founder of Forgotten Angels. Cindy shared her personal story of growing up in foster care and aging out of the system, an experience that inspired her lifelong commitment to helping young people facing similar challenges.
Cindy and David explained how the donated funds will be used to support the purchase of tiny homes for young men on their property and to help open a new women’s home planned for later this year. The women’s home, named Kira’s House in honor of one of their children they lost, will provide a safe and supportive environment for single mothers and young women aging out of foster care. This nine-bedroom home will offer stability, guidance, and a stronger foundation for these young women as they begin the next chapter of their lives.
Celebrating Valentine’s Day in Our Community
Valentine’s Day is often associated with cards, chocolates, and romantic dinners, but here in our 55+ active community, it represents something even broader and more meaningful. It’s a time to celebrate all forms of love—romantic partnerships, lifelong friendships, family connections, and the everyday kindness shared among neighbors.
One of the greatest gifts of community living is the opportunity to connect. Whether it’s meeting friends for a walk, sharing a laugh at a club meeting, volunteering together, or simply waving hello as you pass by. These moments create bonds that make our community feel like home. Valentine’s Day reminds us how valuable those connections truly are.
Winter, such as it is in Florida, can last for several months. In westCentral Florida, however, we, are very fortunate, compared with other areas in the country. Now is a great time to get outside and garden. It may be chilly in the morning, but the afternoons are wonderful.
The Central Florida Gardening Calendar is a great resource that will help you make timely landscape maintenance decisions. Access this publication at “Ask IFAS” followed by the title.
Gardening green tips for the next few months:
If you chose to fight the weed war, you can cover weeds with newspapers to smother them and/ or point, aim, and squeeze with an environmentally-friendly weed killer spray.
Prune? Check the “Calendar” for what plants can be pruned and when. Prune to train plants to grow in a certain direction, improve health by removing diseased stems, increase flowering, and more abundant foliage.
Pests: Biting, Sucking and Chewing. Yes, we have pests: aphids, caterpillars, slugs, snails, scale and spider mites. Less than 1% of all bugs are “bad bugs”. The first step is to properly identify the insect to be sure it is a pest versus a beneficial insect. If you must, use the least toxic product. Spot treat plants as needed, not the entire landscape.
For some, the holiday may bring fond memories of celebrations past; for others, it’s a chance to create new traditions. No matter how you choose to observe the day, it’s an opportunity to slow down and appreciate the people who enrich your life—friends
February offers an excellent opportunity for condo residents to focus on light home maintenance that often gets overlooked during busier times of the year. With cooler weather and a natural pause before spring activities begin, this month is ideal for checking on the interior of your condo and making sure small concerns are addressed before they become larger issues.
While the association manages exterior areas and shared systems, each resident plays an important role in maintaining the interior of their unit. Regular attention to safety features is an important starting point. Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms should be tested to ensure they are working properly, and batteries replaced when needed. These simple steps help provide peace of mind and contribute to the overall safety of the community.
Water awareness is especially important in condominium living, where an issue in one unit can quickly affect others. Taking time to check under sinks, around toilets, and near appliances can help identify minor leaks early. Running water occasionally in sinks or showers that are used less often helps keep plumbing in good condition. It is also helpful to know the location of your unit’s water shut-off valve so action
who listen, neighbors who lend a helping hand, and loved ones who make every day brighter.
This time of year also encourages us to reach out. A kind word, a friendly phone call, or an invitation to join an activity can make someone’s day. In a community built on active living and mutual support, these gestures reflect the spirit that keeps us connected and thriving.
As Valentine’s Day approaches, we encourage everyone to take part in the activities and moments that bring joy—whether that’s attending a social gathering, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying the company of those around you. Love, after all, isn’t limited to one day on the calendar. It’s found in the friendships we build, the care we show, and the sense of belonging we share year-round.
Wishing all our residents a Valentine’s Day filled with warmth, smiles, and meaningful connections.
Plant vegetables: January: Plant peppers and potatoes; February: Plant beans, corn, cantaloupe and tomatoes; and March: Same as February plus cucumber, okra, sweet potato and watermelon.
Mulch: Cool weather is always a great time to add mulch to your landscape beds if it is less than 3 inches deep. Mulch regulates soil temperature, adds organic value, inhibits weeds and retains soil moisture. Pine bark, pine straw/ needles, Eucalyptus, Melaleuca and leaves are good options.
Manage Weeds: Using mulch (2-3 inches deep after it settles) helps.
Right Plant, Wrong Place: After the last chance of frost, which is generally mid-February, consider the opportunity to move the right plant to the right place in your landscape if it is not there now. Consideration should be given to light (sun/shade), soil pH and texture, water, wind and other conditions. An invasive plant is never the right plant in any place. Not sure if it’s invasive, go to UF/ IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida’s Natural Areas.
Rewards of winter landscape maintenance: You are outside, productive, enjoying nature, speaking with neighbors you may not have seen in a while.
Home Care Reminders for Condo Living Seasonal Maintenance Tips for February
can be taken quickly if needed. Any ongoing moisture, staining, or unusual odors should be reported promptly to help prevent damage beyond your own unit.
Comfort and mobility inside the home are also worth attention this time of year. Clear pathways, wellsecured rugs, and good lighting can make a significant difference in preventing slips or falls. Hallways, bathrooms, and entryways benefit from bright, consistent lighting, and non-slip mats can add an extra layer of safety. Ensuring handrails or grab bars are secure can further support safe and comfortable movement throughout the condo.
Indoor air quality is another key part of maintaining a healthy living environment. Cleaning or replacing air filters helps heating and cooling systems operate
more efficiently and keeps dust and allergens to a minimum. February is also a good time to take a closer look at caulking and grout in kitchens and bathrooms. Maintaining these areas helps prevent moisture from seeping into walls or flooring, which can lead to more extensive repairs if left unaddressed.
Understanding the division of responsibility between the association and individual homeowners can help reduce confusion and unnecessary repairs. In most cases, the association is responsible for roofs, exterior walls, and common systems, while residents are responsible for interior fixtures, appliances, and finishes. When questions arise, contacting the association office before scheduling work can help ensure repairs are handled
correctly and in accordance with community guidelines.
Beyond the practical benefits, keeping up with these small maintenance tasks can also bring a sense of confidence and comfort. Knowing that your condo is in good working order allows you to spend less time worrying about potential problems and more time enjoying the many activities, events, and friendships that make the community special. Wellmaintained homes contribute to the overall appearance, value, and enjoyment of the neighborhood for everyone.
If any task feels overwhelming or unsafe, there is no need to take it on alone. Many residents choose to work with licensed professionals or ask for help from family, neighbors, or the association. Home care should feel manageable and supportive, not stressful. By taking a little extra time this February to focus on condo maintenance, residents can help ensure a safe, comfortable, and worry-free living environment throughout the rest of the year. Small efforts now can make a lasting difference for both individual homes and the community as a whole.
Winter landscape maintenance Getting past the winter blues
ByLynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Agent UF/IFAS Extension HillsboroughCounty
Living with Sandhill Cranes
Sandhill cranes are an important part of Florida’s natural ecosystem. Standing nearly four feet tall, these long-legged, long-necked birds are easily recognized by the red patch on their heads and their distinctive, bugling calls. They are commonly found in pastures, open prairies, freshwater wetlands, and increasingly in suburban and urban areas such as golf courses and neighborhoods.
Florida is home to two types of sandhill cranes. The Florida sandhill crane is a non-migratory, yearround resident that breeds locally. During the winter months, they are joined by larger migratory sandhill cranes that nest in the Great Lakes region and spend winters in Florida. Cranes typically nest in late winter and spring, building shallowwater nests made of vegetation.
Sandhill cranes are omnivores, feeding on seeds, grains, insects, small animals, and other natural food sources. While many residents enjoy watching them, cranes can sometimes damage lawns while foraging and may peck at windows, screens, or
vehicles due to reflections. During nesting season, adult cranes—especially males—may become protective and chase people or pets that get too close.
Reducing Conflicts
Residents can help reduce conflicts by never feeding sandhill cranes, as feeding is illegal in Florida. Remove bird feeders or other food sources that attract them. Cover or reduce reflective surfaces on windows and vehicles, plant shrubs near windows, and use visual deterrents like streamers or reflective ribbons. Loud noise deterrents or chasing cranes away may be used only outside of breeding season and never near nests or flightless young.
Legal Protection
Sandhill cranes are protected under both federal and Florida law. It is illegal to harass, harm, disturb, or possess cranes, their nests, eggs, or feathers. Active nests may only be removed with proper federal and state permits. Inactive nests may be removed outside of nesting season, but possession of nests is prohibited without authorization.
For additional assistance or permitting information, residents should contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) or the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
The Grandparent Scam
ByMaster Deputy Jeffery E Merry Jr
Scammers have long targeted seniors using fear and urgency— but today, new technology is making their lies more believable and more dangerous. One of the fastest-growing fraud schemes affecting older adults is the grandparent scam, and artificial intelligence (AI) is giving criminals powerful new tools to deceive even the most cautious families.
Understanding how this scam works—and how AI enhances it— is the first step in protecting yourself and your loved ones.
What Is the Grandparent Scam?
In a typical grandparent scam, a criminal calls an older adult pretending to be a grandchild or a trusted authority figure such as a lawyer, police officer, or hospital employee. The caller claims the grandchild has been arrested, injured, or involved in a serious accident and urgently needs money.
Common requests include:
•Bail money
•Legal fees
•Medical expenses
•Emergency travel costs
The scammer pressures the senior to act immediately and often insists on secrecy, saying, “Please don’t tell Mom or Dad—I’m embarrassed.”
How AI Is Making the Scam More
Convincing
Artificial intelligence has dramatically increased the success rate of these scams by removing many of the traditional “red flags.”
AI Voice Cloning
Scammers can now use short audio clips—often pulled from social media videos, voicemails, or online posts—to create a realistic clone of a grandchild’s voice. Seniors may hear a familiar voice saying: “Grandma, it’s me. I’m in trouble. Please help.”
Even a brief emotional message can override logic and trigger panic.
AI Scripted Conversations
AI tools allow scammers to respond naturally to questions, adjust their story in real time, and sound calm, professional, and believable. This makes the call feel less scripted and more authentic.
AI-Enhanced Caller ID and Spoofing
Criminals can spoof phone numbers to appear as though the call is coming from a police department, courthouse, hospital, or even a family member’s phone number.
How to Protect Yourself
Pause and Verify
Hang up and call your grandchild or another trusted family member directly using a number you already have.
Create a Family Password
Agree on a private word or phrase that only family members know. Ask for it during emergencies.
Never Send Money Without Verification
No real emergency requires payment via gift cards, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency.
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 3
By Steven Ashton Biologist, Chair, Kings Point Stormwater and Pond Committee
To end this series, I will be writing about the terrestrial plant invasive species here on Kings Point. In earlier installments, I wrote about invasive animals, and aquatic plants.
Mexican Petunia Ruellia simplex are common throughout Kings Point and were planted intentionally as ornamentals. They are native to Mexico and Central/ South America and tolerate sun, shade, wet, and dry conditions.
This plant reproduces by both seeds and rhizomes which is why they rapidly spread. They grow up to 4 feet tall and form dense monoculture colonies. If you have these planted, it is highly recommended that they be
removed and replaced with other non-invasive species.
Peruvian Primrose Ludwigia peruviana is a fast growing, highly invasive shrub known for its bright yellow flowers. They are native to South America and are now widespread in damp areas globally, often clogging waterways and harming ecosystems.
These plants reproduce through seeds and root fragments which make them very difficult to eradicate. This plant is around virtually every single stormwater pond and wetland in Kings Point. They grow up to 15 feet tall and outcompete native plants by blocking sunlight and utilizing resources. Please support the Tampa Bay Estuary Program by purchasing Tarpon tags for your autos.
Peruvian Primrose Ludwigia peruviana
Brazilian Peppertree Schinus terebinthifolius
KP COA HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING WINNERS 2025 FIRST PLACE TIE Jennifer Clover 1622 Nantucket Dr. (Nantucket II)
FIRST PLACE TIE Mildred Gantvoort 1907 Canterbury Lane Unit 11 (Cambridge)
SECOND PLACE Raymond Papiano 503 Fallow Court Unit B Fairfield H
THIRD PLACE Michael Gosselin 2250 Nottingham Greens Dr. (Nottingham)
KP COA HOLIDAY GOLF CART DECORATING WINNERS 2025 FIRST PLACE
SECOND PLACE
THIRD PLACE
February Volunteer of the Month
Sandra “Sandy” Kiehm moved to Kings Point in 2011 from Old Saybrook, Connecticut, where she had retired after a distinguished career as Executive Vice President of the American Lung Association. Before making the move permanent, Sandy and her husband stayed for a month with a friend who was renting in Kings Point while they searched for a home in Florida. It didn’t take long for them to fall in love with the community and its people, and they soon decided to make Kings Point their home in the Kensington neighborhood.
Sandy is currently an active volunteer on four different boards, dedicating her time, experience, and passion to making a difference. She is a member of the Dog Lovers Club, where she also serves as one of the club’s fundraising chairs. In addition, she is a board member of the Kings Point Music Makers Club, fundraising for the KP Music Makers Foundation, which supports local school music programs and helps purchase musical instruments for students.
Sandy also serves as President of the New Englanders Club, which hosts the annual Valentine’s Day Dance for Kings Point. This year’s event has already sold over 100 tickets, with proceeds benefiting a local charity. In addition, she is the President of Fido FutureFoundation,anorganizationdedicatedtoraisingfundsforlocalanimalshelters.
During her career with the American Lung Association, Sandy was responsible for raising more than $20 million annually through galas and special events. That extensive experience has translated into tremendous success in supporting charitable causes throughout the Kings Point community and beyond.
Sandy lives by a simple yet powerful motto: “The answer is always no if you don’t ask.”
Her dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to giving back truly embody the spirit of volunteerism. Kings Point is fortunate to have Sandy as part of our community.
