You hear their sirens; you see their ambulances, but did you know our Emergency Squad is a national award-winning EMS agency? While most EMS agencies provide prehospital care and transportation, for which you receive a bill, the Emergency Squad does so much more and all for free. And for this reason, they were selected, for the second time, by the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians (NAEMT) and EMS World for an Award of Excellence as the Volunteer Service of the Year.
EMS World and the NAEMT established the national EMS Awards of Excellence to recognize outstanding achievements in the field. This esteemed program has become the gold standard of accomplishment recognition in the EMS profession.
“This is an extraordinary honor, to be selected from applicants across the country,” said Chief Mike Bardell. “It is due to our commitment to serving the residents of our community in meaningful ways and to finding innovative ways to train and maintain our volunteer corps.”
As an active member in the community, the Squad has taken the lead in preparing residents for hurricane season
In light of the upcoming election, social media activity and misinformation have reached an unfortunate peak. Rumors, half-truths, and assumptions are being circulated—some by those seeking to promote their own agendas—causing confusion and unnecessary division within the community. The Master Association would like to take a moment to address a few of these topics directly, with transparency and clarity.
Over the summer, the Master Association and its staff were inundated with false accusations that required extensive time and legal review to resolve. One persistent claim alleged that the Master was operating in violation of county permitting and licensing requirements related to irrigation. This is entirely untrue. The Association received written confirmation— twice—from Hillsborough County and from legal counsel affirming full compliance. Despite this, certain residents continued to pursue the matter, costing the community unnecessary legal fees. This matter—and other false claims—have collectively cost the community thousands of dollars that could have been better spent on projects and services benefiting residents.
Sun City Center Receives National Award of Excellence As the Volunteer Service of the Year
and other possible disasters by organizing educational events for homeowners to be prepared for storms. The Squad also works with Hillsborough County Sheriff’s office, Fire Rescue, CERT and other community groups and clubs to ensure that each knows their role during a disaster. In addition, Squad Chief Mike Bardell created a local communication network with local senior facility leadership to maintain communications in case land lines and cell towers are down. The Squad was the first in the State to purchase and subscribe to FIRSTNET, a statewide emergency communications network for first responders.
Recently, Chief Bardell realized there was a lack of information regarding advanced life issues. Working with both Squad members and several local groups, a symposium was created to encourage residents to understand and communicate to their families, their desires regarding Advanced Life decisions.
“Community education is one of the more important ways we serve the residents,” said Chairman Robin Watt. “Helping people understand
the various ways they can respond to their own emergencies until help arrives, prepares our residents for problems we hope never arrive. We offer programs on fall prevention, “Stop the Bleed,” Family & Friends CPR, in addition to helping them prepare for storms or end of life decisions.”
After last year’s storms, the Emergency Squad has identified several other ways to serve the residents. One of those ways will be to offer free Wi-Fi behind the Squad building when communications are down. This will allow residents to come park behind the Squad, pick up our Wi-Fi signal and notify family members they are safe.
Along those same lines, we noted that without power, many people could not call their families because their phones were not charged. We now have the ability to charge up to 100 phones at a time and serve as a charging station for our residents. Residents will be able to stop by and drop off their phones for an hour or so, and then pick them up after they’ve been charged.
Also, when the power was out
Setting the Record Straight: Facts About the Master Association
Another rumor circulating suggests that the Master Association is in violation of Florida Statute 720 regarding the posting of official documents. This, too, is inaccurate. The statute applies to associations with 100 or more parcels, and “parcels” are defined as real property. Because the Master Association does not meet that definition, it was never required to comply. However, in the spirit of transparency, the Board voluntarily chose to post all documents outlined in the statute and will continue to do so going forward.
The Association has also been overwhelmed with repetitive and burdensome records requests— some of which include demands for financial information already made publicly available through the Enumerate portal. One rumor claims that multiple contracts for the General Manager are missing. To be clear, there is only one contract between the Master Association and the General Manager. It has been posted on Enumerate from the beginning and remains accessible to all members.
There has also been confusion about the Pattern and Coverage
project, with claims that the Master is nearly $1 million over budget. This is false. The project was always funded from the general reserve and did not have a preset budget line item. The $800,000 appearing in the financials reflects the amount spent on completed work—not an overage. Going forward, if the project continues, it will be formally budgeted as part of the Association’s annual financial planning. It is also important to note that the Master Association undergoes a full professional audit every year. The year-end audit for 2024–2025 is currently underway. While financial reports were delayed by the management company, the Master Association is now current and is exploring options for a new accounting firm or management partner.
Some residents have expressed frustration about the lack of notice during water shut-offs. Please know that the Master Association does not manage potable water service. Those responsibilities fall under the county and VPS. Any notifications about potable water interruptions must come from them—not the Master Association. Another misconception involves
for several days, there were residents whose medications went bad because they were not refrigerated. In partnership with the Men’s Club, the Squad will offer small bags of ice for those residents who need to keep their medications cold.
“We are always looking for new opportunities and ideas in how we can assist our senior community,” says Chief Bardell. “Our volunteers are dedicated to being “Neighbors Helping Neighbors.”
The Emergency Squad provides pre-hospital care and ambulance and wheelchair transportation to medical appointments for free. Also free: blood pressures, wheelchair and walker loans, Key locator service, vials of life, and educational symposiums.
If you are interested in leaning more about volunteering for the Emergency Squad, please contact Chris McCann, Assistant Chief of Human Resources at 813633-1411. Or attend one of their monthly information meetings.
the current election process, specifically the delivery and collection of ballots. The method being used is fully compliant with the Association’s bylaws. All ballot materials and instructions were reviewed and approved by the entire SEC committee prior to mailing, and no objections or concerns were raised at that time. While the past few months have been challenging, there has been notable progress. The Board is now working cohesively, and many of the “gotcha” tactics that previously stalled progress have subsided. Projects are being assigned to individual Board members to help share the workload and increase accountability. This structure allows staff to focus on operations while ensuring greater oversight and transparency.
We are encouraged to see so many residents attending meetings and taking an active interest in community matters. No matter the outcome of the election, we hope everyone will continue to engage, ask questions, and learn firsthand what is happening in Kings Point—directly from the source rather than through falsehoods, misinformation or social media speculation.
Kings Point Celebrates the 2025 Holiday Season with Festivities and Giving
The holidays are just around the corner, and excitement is building at Kings Point! Preparations are in full swing for the community’s 2025 Holiday Events, promising a season filled with joy, entertainment, and charitable giving. Last year, the celebrations were a tremendous success, raising over $26,000 for A Kid’s Place in Brandon. This year, Kings Point is proud to support Forgotten Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping young adults who have
The festive season is quickly approaching, and Kings Point is ready to celebrate in style!
Among the season’s highlights is the Festival of Trees and Wreaths, a dazzling showcase of creativity, community spirit, and generosity.
The North Clubhouse will be transformed into a winter wonderland filled with themed trees and wreaths, each beautifully
It’s almost time to celebrate the holiday season together, and Kings Point is ready to celebrate in grand style! Mark your calendars for Sunday, December 8th, when the 5th Annual Celebration of the Holidays returns to the North Clubhouse for an unforgettable evening of food, fun, and festive cheer. This signature event has become one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year, bringing residents together to share in the joy and warmth of the season — all while supporting a meaningful cause.
This year, the celebration will benefit Forgotten Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping children and teens in need. By attending, guests are not only treating themselves to a magical evening but also giving back to the community and making a real difference in the lives of young people.
From the moment guests arrive, they’ll be welcomed into a winter wonderland, as the North Clubhouse is transformed with shimmering lights, sparkling décor, and the sounds of holiday music filling the air. The ambiance will be nothing short of magical — perfect for gathering with friends, making
aged out of the foster care system. Forgotten Angels provides housing, mentorship, and life-skills training, giving these individuals the tools they need to thrive independently.
Tree Lighting Ceremony –Monday, November 24th, 6:30 PM The holiday season officially begins with the Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Charles Hassel Park. Residents and guests will gather to enjoy a festive evening in a beautifully decorated park, adorned with sparkling lights and holiday decorations. The celebration includes a Christmas carol sing-along to get everyone in the holiday spirit, a festive Holiday Attire Contest to showcase creative outfits, and visits with Santa — perfect for photos and holiday cheer. Specialty food trucks will offer seasonal treats
decorated by residents, clubs, and local organizations. Guests can stroll through the festive displays and bid on their favorites during the silent auction — a perfect way to bring home some holiday sparkle while supporting a worthy cause.
All proceeds from the Festival of Trees and Wreaths will directly benefit Forgotten Angels, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides housing, mentorship, and life skills for young adults who have aged out of foster care.
“The Festival of Trees and Wreaths is one of our favorite holiday traditions,” says organizer Sue Martucci. “It’s a wonderful way to share the joy of the season while helping others in need.”
For more information, contact Sue Martucci at suemartucci@gmail.com
5th
and warm beverages, adding to the festive atmosphere.
The highlight of the evening is the lighting of the community tree, which coincides with the grand unveiling of the holiday lights at both the front and back entrances of Kings Point. The event promises a magical start to the holiday season while supporting a meaningful cause. By attending, residents help raise awareness and support for Forgotten Angels, making the evening not just a celebration of the season but also a chance to give back to young adults in need.
Join neighbors and friends for an unforgettable evening of lights, music, and holiday cheer, and help make a difference in the lives of those supported by Forgotten Angels. The 2025 Tree Lighting Ceremony is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season at Kings Point!
Holiday Event Sponsorship Opportunities
We’re currently seeking sponsors to support Kings Point’s exciting lineup of holiday events! Businesses and individuals interested in spreading cheer and supporting this year’s festivities can contact 813-812-7580 or email cheryl@kpmaster.com
Sponsors will receive recognition across multiple outlets—including digital and print publications, website exposure, and, depending on sponsorship level, a designated table during the Celebration of the Holidays event. We kindly ask that all donated gifts have a minimum value of $25 and that all items be unused, unopened, unwrapped, and suitable for public display to ensure the best experience for all participants.
Spread holiday cheer, and help make this season at Kings Point truly magical!
new memories, and kicking off the holiday season in style.
Guests can indulge in an array of mouthwatering entrées, decadent desserts, and festive beverages, all prepared to delight every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, there will be plenty to enjoy throughout the evening. Attendees are encouraged to mingle and explore the beautifully decorated space, soaking in the sights and sounds of the season.
For those looking to finish up their holiday shopping, several local clubs and vendors will be set up throughout the clubhouse offering unique, handcrafted, and locally inspired gifts. It’s a wonderful opportunity to support community organizations while finding that perfect last-minute present.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a holiday celebration without a special visit from Santa Claus! Santa will be on hand throughout the evening, ready to take photos and share some holiday
Angel Tree Event
Kings Point residents are invited to help brighten the holiday season at our annual Angel Tree event. The Angel Trees will be located in the North Clubhouse on: Wednesday, November 13th, 2025 – 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM Thursday, November 14th, 2025 – 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
One tree will benefit the charity Forgotten Angels, and the second tree will support KP Cares. Residents are encouraged to select an angel (or angels!) from either tree and help make the holidays a little brighter for those in need.
COA Holiday Events Bring Festive Fun to Kings Point
Get ready to celebrate the season with two favorite Kings Point traditions!
COA Annual Holiday Light Contest – December 19th
Show off your holiday spirit and creativity! Judging takes place on December 19th, with prizes of $100 for first place, $50 for second, and an honorable mention for third.
COA Golf Cart Parade – December 20th
Join the fun and decorate your cart in festive fashion for the Golf Cart Parade on December 20th. Prizes include $250 for first place, $150 for second, and $100 for third.
More details—including start times, parade routes, and sign-up information—will be announced online at Kpmaster.com/holidays. Don’t miss the fun and festive cheer at Kings Point!
magic with guests of all ages.
One of the most exciting highlights of the night is the grand holiday raffle, featuring thousands of dollars in prizes. Lucky winners could take home sporting event tickets, iPads, gift cards, themed baskets, and more. Each raffle ticket is a chance to win big while supporting Forgotten Angels and their mission to help children and teens in need.
As the evening unfolds, guests can expect laughter, camaraderie, and the unmistakable spirit of the holidays that makes Kings Point such a special place to live. The 5th Annual Celebration of the Holidays is more than just an event — it’s a cherished tradition that brings neighbors together to celebrate friendship, community, and the beauty of the season, all while giving back to those who need it most.
So gather your friends, put on your holiday best, and join us on December 8th at the North Clubhouse for an evening filled with sparkle, smiles, and the magic of the holidays — and help make a difference through Forgotten Angels, 501(c)(3).
Operation Medicine Cabinet
By: Master Deputy Jeffery E Merry Jr
Is your medicine cabinet full of expired drugs or medications you no longer use? Your medicine is for you. What’s safe for you might be harmful for someone else. Keeping unused, expired and unwanted prescriptions and medications in your home can have tragic consequences. The best way to dispose of your expired, unwanted, or unused medicines is through a drug take back program. One of the most successful drug take back programs is Operation Medicine Cabinet, right here in Sun City Center. Another reason for the collection is the improper disposal of drugs when folks flush them down the toilet or throw them in the trash. This contaminates our public water supply and county landfills.
On Friday, December 5th, 2025, from 8 a.m. until noon, current Sun City Center Community Resource Deputy Jeff Merry will be collecting any and all unused and expired medications. This includes prescription medication, over the counter medication, pet medication, liquid medication, and sharps. Just drive to
Community Hall, located at 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd, and have your medication. It is not even necessary to get out of the vehicle. Put those drugs and drug containers in a grocery bag and hand them over. Everything is accepted as is, you don’t need to remove any labels, and we don’t ask questions. It is completely confidential.
Once drugs are taken into custody, they’re boxed and officially sealed, labeled and transported to the HCSO Evidence. They’re securely stored until they can be taken for incineration in the same manner as illegal drugs and confiscated guns. This program has kept the community safer from medication errors and saved lives; it has also kept drugs out of the hands of contractors, service providers and relatives who either end up personally misusing them or illegally selling them on the street. The event is open to everyone and is conducted twice a year, in April and December. For more information, contact Master Deputy Merry at 813-242-5525.
Our Veterans: The Heart of Our Community
Veterans are more than just residents of our community — they are the heartbeat of it. Their service, sacrifice, and steadfast dedication to others have shaped the very freedoms we enjoy today. In our active senior community, veterans continue to lead by example, enriching the lives of those around them through their strength, wisdom, and unwavering sense of purpose.
The Spirit of Service Never Retires
For many veterans, service to others is not just something they did — it’s who they are. That same spirit of dedication that guided them in uniform continues to shine as they volunteer, mentor, and lead within the community. Whether organizing social gatherings, lending a hand to a neighbor, or offering words of encouragement, our veterans remind us every day what it means to live with integrity and compassion.
Their leadership and teamwork inspire those around them — proving that the values learned in service translate beautifully to community life. Veterans help build bridges between generations, strengthen friendships, and foster a sense of belonging that makes our community truly special.
Pillars of Strength and Inspiration Veterans embody qualities that every strong community needs: resilience, discipline, and empathy. They have faced challenges most of us can only imagine and emerged with a quiet strength that encourages others. Their stories remind us of courage under pressure and the power of unity in difficult times. Within our senior community, veterans serve as mentors, storytellers, and role models. Their life experiences offer invaluable lessons — from leadership and teamwork to perseverance and gratitude. Simply put, our community is stronger, kinder, and more connected because of them.
Building a Community
That Honors Their Legacy Honoring veterans isn’t just about recognizing their past; it’s about supporting their present and future. Our active senior community is dedicated to
How has the Kings Point Stormwater and Pond Committee helped to restore the stormwater system this year?
The Kings Point Stormwater and Pond Committee has had a very busy year. We hired a new pond maintenance contractor, held multiple seminars regarding the best practices of stormwater pond management, held 2 fundraisers, awarded 2 grants and planted 8 stormwater ponds.
and provide nesting material for our native and migratory birds. The plants installed include Duck Potato, Golden Canna, Pickerelweed, Gulf Coast Spike Rush, Thalia, and Blue Flag Iris. Most of these plants do flower so we have the added benefit of pond beautification.
In addition to the aquatic plants, we planted 18 new trees around ponds 1 and 3. We added 10 Red Maple and 8 Bald Cypress trees. This will vastly improve the general ecology of the area.
The ponds planted were ponds 1, 2, 3 (all on Gloucester) 5 (next to the RV storage area) 24, 25, ( next to Acadia Greens Loop) 28, and 30 (next to the back gate).
ensuring veterans continue to thrive by offering opportunities for connection, activity, and purpose.
We proudly celebrate our veterans through special events, remembrance ceremonies, and social gatherings that honor their service. Many veterans enjoy staying active with fitness programs, volunteering, and veteran-to-veteran meetups — continuing the camaraderie they valued in the military.
Just as importantly, our community works to ensure every veteran feels seen and supported. Whether through access to resources, emotional wellness programs, or simple acts of appreciation, we strive to make sure they know how deeply they are valued.
Veterans Enrich the Lives Around Them
The presence of veterans enriches community life in countless ways. They remind us to stand tall, to look out for one another, and to live with gratitude. Their stories connect us to our shared history and inspire younger generations to serve and give back.
From leading a morning fitness class to sharing memories at the coffee table, veterans contribute in ways both big and small. Their humor, humility, and kindness bring warmth and stability to daily life.
A Legacy of Service That Continues
As we look around our community, we see the legacy of service alive in every veteran — and in every person they’ve inspired. Their influence reaches beyond military achievements; it’s reflected in how they treat others, how they face challenges, and how they continue to live with purpose.
Our active senior community doesn’t just honor veterans on special days — we celebrate them every day. Their example reminds us that community, like service, is about showing up for one another with strength and heart.
To every veteran who has served — thank you. Your courage has protected our nation, and your presence continues to strengthen our community. You are, and always will be, our heroes.
In May of 2025, we hired Advanced Aquatics, a new pond maintenance contractor. Since they began their work, all the Master owned ponds, have shown a remarkable improvement in water clarity and a decrease in the number and amount of invasive species that once plagued our ponds. They are a very conscientious company who are absolute experts in this field. We look forward to working with them now and in the future.
Between August 15th and September 30th, the committee has overseen the planting of 13,400 aquatic plants in 8 different stormwater ponds. All the plants were funded by our yearly budget from the Master Association, a $3,825 grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary Program which is funded by your purchase of Tarpon Tags for your autos. In addition, we were selected to receive a $3,300 grant from Eagle Audubon which is our local chapter, and the Florida Audubon “Plants for Birds” program.
The plants were selected based on the following criteria: All plants are Florida Native plants. All plants are filter plants. The aquatic plants help filter our pond water, provide protection from shore erosion, increase the natural habitat for birds, turtles, and fish,
As you enter or leave the rear gate to Kings Point you are greeted with a new American flag and flagpole dedicated to the Brave Men and Women who have served in our Armed Forces,
Please take a look at these ponds when you have the chance. They are far better than they were last year however, we have a long way to go. We very much would like to thank all of those involved in this massive stormwater system restoration. We have come a very long way and we have a long way to go. I would like to thank the Kings Point residents who have showed an interest in this project and encouraged others to join us in our efforts. We would love to see more folks get involved. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact me through the Master Web Site.
Thanks to all,
Steve Ashton Biologist Chair, Kings Point Stormwater and Pond Management Committee
The COA Gifts and Grants Committee joined with the Master Association and Federation Security to replace the worn and damaged flag and flagpole at the rear Gate Entrance. The new flag proudly waves 25 feet high at the Rear Gate greeting all those who enter & leave our Kings Point Community, honoring our Veterans.
COA BUSINESS MEETING: 2:00 PM, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2025
LOCATION: Banquet RoomMain Clubhouse. We are planning for COA Events and Activities for the remainder of 2025 and start of 2026. COA looks forward to events such as a Holiday Golf Cart Parade, Holiday Home Lighting Contest, and a Wine and Cheese Party.
Rick and his wife moved to Kings Point in 2019 from Michigan, where he built a successful career as a talented graphic designer. Before settling here, the couple often vacationed in Florida, selling airbrushed T-shirts on the beach while dreaming of finding their own slice of paradise. That dream came true when his wife stumbled across their current home on Zillow—an unexpected discovery that turned into the perfect fit. Since joining the community, Rick has become a familiar and trusted face in Kings Point. Along with his wife, he owns Dolphin Power Washing, a business known for both quality service and neighborly care. Whether it’s pressure washing, cleaning, or helping residents with small household projects like changing light bulbs or moving furniture, Rick approaches every job with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to help others.
Rick’s dedication to service extends far beyond his business. He is always the first to volunteer when someone in the community needs assistance. During the holidays, he helps residents set up and take down decorations, ensuring that Kings Point shines bright with festive cheer. His steady support during last year’s hurricane—helping move outdoor furniture and secure homes—was deeply appreciated by many.
Rick’s creativity also brings color and joy to Kings Point. His artistic touch can be seen in the vibrant holiday scenes he paints on the clubhouse windows each year. This December, he’ll be donating his time once again—this time to paint a mural on the RV Storage walls, creating another lasting work of art for the community.
Beyond Kings Point, Rick continues to spread kindness throughout the area. He visits local senior living and memory care facilities, often dressing as Santa Claus during the holidays to bring joy and laughter to residents. He also runs a monthly garbage-hauling event for those who need a little extra help with heavy lifting—another example of his generosity and commitment to service.
Rick’s compassion, creativity, and willingness to go above and beyond make him a shining example of what community spirit truly means. His selflessness inspires those around him and helps make Kings Point a better, brighter, and more caring place for everyone.
