On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the South Clubhouse Jubilee Room was alive with celebration, gratitude, and a strong sense of community as Kings Point came together to honor its Volunteers of the Month. This annual luncheon recognized eleven extraordinary residents who were each selected between September 2024 and August 2025 for their outstanding service and dedication.
A Special Afternoon of Thanks
The honorees, each invited with a guest, were welcomed into a beautifully decorated room filled with warmth and camaraderie. The event provided not only a formal recognition of their efforts but also an opportunity for volunteers to connect with one another, share experiences, and reflect on the many ways they have contributed to making Kings Point such a vibrant place to live. Each volunteer received a special
Over the past several months, questions have been raised regarding whether the Master Association’s new in-house irrigation team is in compliance with county permitting and licensing requirements.
To address these concerns, three Master Board directors— President Chris Robinson, Vice President Rodney Walker, and Treasurer Jim Allen—met with the Association’s attorney, the general manager, and senior officials from Hillsborough County’s Building Department and Code Compliance Division via Zoom. The purpose of the meeting was to determine whether the Association was in violation of any county requirements.
After reviewing the scope of work being performed in Kings Point and asking clarifying questions, county officials confirmed they saw no violations and that permits are not required for the type of irrigation work being completed. This was further confirmed in writing on August 19th, when Mike Williams, Director of Development
Celebrating Service: Volunteer of the Month Luncheon Honors Kings Point’s Finest
plaque, engraved with their name and month of recognition, as a lasting symbol of the community’s gratitude. The plaques served as more than awards — they represented countless hours of dedication, kindness, and service.
A Meal Made PossiblebyGenerosity
Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch thoughtfully prepared by the South Club kitchen staff. This Master Association event was made possible through generous contribution from Garcia Landscaping. This sponsorship ensured that the luncheon was not only well-prepared but also a heartfelt tribute to those who give so freely of their time and talents.
Honoring the 2024–2025 Volunteers
The following residents were recognized for their service over the past year:
Each of these honorees brought their own unique talents and passions to Kings Point. Whether through organizing events, supporting neighbors in need, improving shared spaces, or lending a hand to local charities, their efforts have strengthened the community in countless ways.
The Spirit of Volunteerism
As the luncheon drew to a close, attendees left with full hearts and a renewed appreciation for the volunteers who dedicate themselves to bettering Kings Point. The event was more than just a meal and recognition ceremony —
Review, emailed the Association’s attorney. His message specifically noted that adding drip lines to
a mixed zone with sprays and rotors does not require a permit.
October 2025
it was a reminder of the community spirit that defines life here.
The Volunteer of the Month program continues to highlight the importance of service, encouraging others to step forward and get involved. It is through these efforts that Kings Point not only thrives but also sets an example of what can be accomplished when neighbors come together in the spirit of giving.
Nominating a Volunteer of the Month is a meaningful way to recognize the selflessness, dedication, and compassion of neighbors who go above and beyond. These nominations not only celebrate the individuals who give so much of their time and energy, but also inspire others to step forward and contribute, ensuring the spirit of service in Kings Point remains strong for years to come.
Despite this, concerns were raised again at the September 3rd Master Board meeting, citing an email from Travis Minnes, Building Official Division Director. To clarify, the Association’s attorney contacted Adam Gormley, who oversees Mr. Minnes’ department. Mr. Gormley confirmed in writing:
• “The County’s investigation is closed based on there being no identified violation of the Construction Code or the Florida Building Code.”
• “We have been advised that the Sheriff’s Office investigation is also closed based on no finding of violation of any Florida Statute.”
With these confirmations, the matter is considered resolved. The Master Board remains fully committed to maintaining compliance with all local and state regulations.
In addition, our irrigation manager is actively working toward full licensure. He has successfully passed the irrigation portion of the state exam and is scheduled to retake the business and finance portion in mid-October.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s is World’s Largest Event Dedicated to Alzheimer’s Care, Support and Research
Sun City Center, FL, Sept. 16, 2025 – Connie Lesko walks for her parents who passed away with Alzheimer’s and her mother-in-law who had Lewy body dementia. No matter who someone walks for, they all share in the hope to end Alzheimer’s and other dementia, the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association.
Residents can join Lesko and others for Walk to End Alzheimer’s SouthShore on Saturday, Oct. 4 at United Methodist Church of SCC, 1971 Haverford Ave., in Sun City Center. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by the flower ceremony at 8:45 a.m. and then the Walk begins.
“I know that research and clinical trials will someday provide us with a cure or at least an affordable and effective treatment,” Lesko said. “The only way I’m capable of helping is to participate in
RESIDENTS INVITED TO JOIN TOGETHER ON OCT. 4 FOR WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S SOUTHSHORE
fundraising to make that happen.”
More than 7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimer’s.
An estimated 11 million family members and friends provide unpaid care for those affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
In Florida, over 580,000 people are living with the disease, supported by more than 870,000 unpaid caregivers. Hillsborough County has an estimated 27,000 people or 12.1 percent over the age of 65 living with Alzheimer’s.
On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony —
Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones from Scammers!
By Master Deputy Jeffery E. Merry Jr.
Attend This Vital Community Event!
Scammers are targeting senior citizens now more than ever — and Sun City Center is not immune. Our neighbors, friends, and loved ones are being specifically preyed upon because of their retirement savings and hard-earned wealth. These bad actors are relentless, and those over 60 are the most at risk. But you can fight back — with knowledge. Join us for a powerful and informative event designed to arm you with the tools to protect yourself from financial fraud.
• Date: Tuesday, November 18
• Doors Open: 9:30 a.m.
• Event Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
• Location: Veteran’s Theater, King’s Point, 1900 Clubhouse Drive, Sun City Center, FL
This is more than just a seminar — it’s your chance to hear directly from trusted experts, including:
•The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
•Florida Securities Dealers and
Ask The Pet Vet
BY Sandra Yosha, DVM, PHD
My dog has skin allergies. What treatments are there and what are the side effects from treatment?
Both dogs and cats can have itchy skin, hair loss, skin odors and other skin conditions. Your veterinarian MUST diagnose the condition before ANY treatment can be recommended. Common causes include parasites, food allergies, contact allergens, atopic dermatitis and complications caused by bacteria, fungi and other diseases that can ALL LOOK ALIKE and CAN ALL AFFECT THE SKIN. A complete physical exam and several diagnostic tests are done to determine the UNDERLYING CAUSE. Often several treatments are done initially to get things under control, then only one or a few are needed for longer term control. Allergies, atopic dermatitis and other conditions might never be cured, but most can be controlled.
Advisors
•Robinhood
•AARP
•Better Business Bureau
•FINRA
They’ll share real, proven techniques to stop scammers in their tracks and help you safeguard your finances.
• Free refreshments provided by FSDA
• Meet trusted exhibitors from consumer protection agencies
• BONUS: AARP will be on-site with their shredding truck — bring your old documents and shred them for free to protect your identity!
This event is open to everyone — bring your spouse, a friend, or a neighbor. Let’s stand together as a community and make sure no more seniors fall victim to these financial predators.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Mark your calendar and be there. Your financial security could depend on it.
a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to the disease.
“I started our walk in the SouthShore 17 years ago, knowing that what we can generate is probably a drop in the bucket, but collectively (across our country) those drops can fill the bucket,” Lesko said.
To register and receive the latest updates for this year’s Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s SouthShore,
visit Alz.org/SouthShoreWalk or contact Beth Weest, 518937-8584 or beweest@alz.org.
Alzheimer’s Association
Walk to End Alzheimer’s®
The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s Association®
The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org or call 800.272.3900.
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month!
Each October, communities across the country come together to raise awareness about breast cancer, honor survivors, and support those currently facing the disease. At Kings Point, we want to recognize the importance of early detection, education, and community support.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide, and while it primarily affects women, men can also be diagnosed. The good news is that when caught early, treatment is often more successful. Regular screenings, such as mammograms and self-exams, play a key role in saving lives.
This month, you may notice pink ribbons displayed throughout our community—each one a symbol of hope and a reminder of the progress made in research, advocacy, and treatment. Residents are encouraged to wear pink on designated days in October to show support and solidarity.
In addition, several local
Kings Point Hosts “strike out Cancer no one fights alone” Benefit for Moffitt Cancer Center
SUN CITY CENTER, FL — The Kings Point community is stepping up in the fight against cancer with a powerful evening of music, generosity, and hope. On Friday, October 24, 2025, the Kings Point Veterans Theater will host “Strike Out Cancer – No One Fights Alone,” a benefit event supporting Moffitt Cancer Center.
Presented by the “Kings Point Conquering Cancer Together” Committee and the Tomiak Foundation, the event will feature a silent auction, raffles, and opportunities to support life-saving cancer research and patient care, along with entertainment by MC Joe LaLuna, DJ Doug Higgs, Twisted Spirits, and a special surprise band! Proceeds will benefit Moffitt’s expanding presence in Sun City Center, bringing worldclass treatment closer to home.
Event Details: October 24th, 2025 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM Kings Point Veterans Theater TicketsWillGoonSaleonAugust25th: $10 in advance | $15 at the door
Donations and auction items are welcome. For more information or to contribute, contact strikeoutcancerkp@gmail.com or scan the QR code below to make donations directly online.
Let’s rally together to strike out cancer—because no one fights alone.
organizations will be offering opportunities to participate in fundraising walks, awareness events, and educational workshops. These efforts not only help fund life-saving research but also provide vital resources for individuals and families affected by breast cancer.
We invite all Kings Point residents to take part in the spirit of Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
*Schedule your routine checkups and encourage loved ones to do the same.
*Wear pink proudly to show support for survivors and those currently in treatment.
*Participate in local events that benefit breast cancer charities and research.
Together, we can continue to spread awareness, inspire hope, and make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer.
Register for Enumerate with the Master Association
The Master Association is excited to offer residents access to Enumerate/Engage, a secure online platform that helps keep our community informed and connected. By registering, you’ll have quick access to important announcements, event updates, documents, and helpful resources—all from the convenience of your computer or mobile device.
Signing up is simple and only takes a few minutes. Residents may request access through the Master Association website at KPmaster.com by clicking on the banner that reads “Click Here for Enumerate registration request.”
Beginning October 1, 2025, all videos and meeting minutes will be posted exclusively on Enumerate/ Engage. Once registered, you’ll receive timely notifications, and enjoy an easier way to connect with the Master Association. This convenient tool designed to keep you engaged and informed— take a moment today to register for Enumerate/Engage and stay connected with everything happening in our community.
By Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Agent UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County
It is common for us to have Carolina Wrens in Florida. They are known for building their nests in unusual places. At my house, they built a nest in a potted plant on my front porch. What a surprise for both of us when I started watering the plant and the wren flew out of the nest and into me. I think both of us shrieked!
To attract Carolina Wrens, you need to provide shelter and hidden locations to build their nests. These Wrens generally build nests in dense shrub habitats and open woodlands. They are also known to nest in wreaths and outdoor decorations. If you can create a brush pile in your backyard or want to plant dense shrubs, both will be helpful for a pair looking for a location to raise their young.
Male and female Wrens bond together for life and usually build their nests together. Males are slightly larger and produce a loud, ringing sound. The female responds with a raspy churr or buzz, especially during the breeding season. A female Wren can lay between 1-9 eggs. Both parents feed the chicks. Carolina Wrens use the same nest for 2-3 broods every year. Wren lifespan in the wild can average 6 years. They are easy to recognize by their rusty chestnut color, distinctive long white eyebrow stripe and dark bill.
Minimize pesticide and insecticide use in your landscape which can provide sufficient food sources for Wrens which are primarily insectivores. Their diet consists of insects, spiders and other small invertebrates, such as bees, ants, beetles and cockroaches. They also need clean water, fruits and berries as a supplement, suet and peanut hearts. Carolina Wrens do not migrate and spend most of their time on the ground foraging.
This beautiful, small bird’s territorial songs actually hurt my ears, but I provide shelter, food and water hoping they are in my yard to stay! Enjoy them!
Halloween Through the Decades: A Nostalgic Look Back
Halloween has always been more than just costumes and candy— it’s a holiday rooted in community, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. For many of us here in Sun City Center, memories of Halloween stretch back to a simpler time, when children roamed their neighborhoods in groups, porch lights meant “welcome,” and the whole block seemed to share in the excitement. Let’s take a trip down memory lane to see how Halloween traditions have changed over the years.
The 1950s and 1960s: Homemade Magic
In the 1950s and 60s, Halloween was filled with homemade charm. Costumes were often stitched together by parents or improvised from whatever could be found around the house. A white sheet could instantly transform into a ghost, a mop handle and hat made a fine witch, and a little face paint went a long way. Trickor-treat bags were pillowcases— strong enough to hold plenty of candy—and children eagerly filled them with Hershey bars, candy corn, popcorn balls, and even homemade fudge from a neighbor’s kitchen. Carving pumpkins was a family ritual, and candles inside jack-o’lanterns flickered warmly on porches throughout the night.
The 1970s: Store-Bought Fun and Community Spirit
By the 1970s, store-bought costumes had become a big trend. Kids could suddenly dress up as their favorite TV or movie characters, with plastic masks and colorful costumes that came neatly folded in a box. Halloween parties became more common, both in schools and neighborhoods, and parents often joined in the fun. Haunted houses started popping up, adding a thrill for older kids and teens. The holiday grew into a true community affair, with entire blocks buzzing with excitement as families walked together from door to door.
Spike rush is a native, beneficial aquatic plant found in Florida ponds and marshes, including King’s Point ponds. It has tall, rounded, leafless stems and a single spikelet at the tip. Stems can be hollow and have visible segmentation or joints. Often mistaken for grass, it is in the sedge family and there are over 30 varieties just in Florida. Despite their unassuming appearance, spike rush plays outsized roles in ponds and other wetland environments. It stabilizes shorelines to protect against erosion, provides food and shelter for wildlife and absorbs excess nutrients and pollutants.
can hide frogs, juvenile fish and turtles, aquatic insects and even young alligators among its stems.
Food Source for Wildlife: Ducks, geese and other waterfowl often target shallows where spike rush grows to graze on the seeds and tender shoots. The submerged portions of spike rush stems are habitat for many aquatic invertebrates such as snails, insect larvae and tiny crustaceans, which cling to the stems or shelter around the plants. These invertebrates feed on the algae and biofilm growing on spike rush surfaces and in turn become prey for larger animals like fish, wading birds and amphibians.
The 1980s: Bigger, Brighter, and Spookier
Halloween in the 1980s took everything up a notch. Decorations became more elaborate, with cobwebs, plastic skeletons, and animatronic figures making their way onto front lawns. Costume creativity soared, from flashy pop culture icons to homemade masterpieces. Neighborhood contests for “best costume” or “scariest yard” became popular, and community centers began hosting safe trick-or-treating events. Safety was also emphasized more than ever—reflective tape, flashlights, and glow sticks made sure trick-or-treaters stayed visible. Halloween had grown into not just a children’s holiday, but a full community celebration.
Halloween at Sun City Center Here in Sun City Center, Halloween looks a little different, but the joy remains the same. While we may not be walking children door to door, our community has found its own unique ways to celebrate. Costume dances and parties at the clubhouses bring out residents’ creativity and sense of humor. Neighbors host festive gatherings with themed snacks, pumpkin displays, and even contests that rekindle the spirit of Halloweens past. The holiday continues to be a time for laughter, connection, and shared fun.
Share Your Memories
We know our residents have a treasure trove of Halloween stories. Were you part of a neighborhood that went all out with decorations? We’d love to hear your stories and see your photos from those unforgettable nights. Share your memories with us, and we’ll feature them in an upcoming community spotlight celebrating Halloween—past and present.
Halloween may have changed over the decades, but one thing has remained the same: it’s a holiday that brings people together. Whether through homemade costumes, golf cart parades, or costume dances, the spirit of Halloween continues to light up our community.
Habitat and Shelter: Spike rush provides excellent concealment and nesting sites for wildlife. It even provides nest building materials for birds that nest in ponds and wetlands, including Sandhill Cranes – a threatened and protected species. The tangled stems protect eggs and hatchlings from predators and harsh weather. Smaller animals also find refuge, as spike rush
Erosion and Pollution Control: Spike rush is often planted in stormwater treatment ponds to help stabilize shorelines and to improve water quality, by absorbing excess nutrients and filtering runoff. These plants can moderate water flow and reduce erosion by trapping sediments with their dense root network. In nutrient-rich wetlands, spike rush might be outcompeted by taller species like cattail, but in nutrient-poor or fluctuating wetlands, spike rush often holds an advantage, enduring low-nutrient conditions and periodic drying that other aquatic plants can’t. Because spike rush functions as a keystone “structural” species, its abundance can indicate the ecological health or successional stage of a pond or wetland. It provides food and habitat for wildlife, stabilizes shorelines and influences water flow and quality. In other words, the presence of spike rush in our ponds is a very good sign!
Fall in Sun City Center: A Season to Savor
Here in Sun City Center, fall may not bring the crisp air and changing leaves of the northern states, but it offers something uniquely Floridian—comfortable mornings, warm afternoons, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy everything our active community has to offer.
As the summer heat eases, residents can take full advantage of outdoor
COA BUSINESS MEETING: 2:00 PM, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025
LOCATION: Banquet RoomMain Clubhouse
We will discuss plans 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 Party at the Heritage Park.
COA REGULAR HOURS: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Monday through Friday.
The COA continues to provide our regular services, including Notary Services (by appointment), Copies (copiers are located in
activities. Fall is the perfect season for early tee times on our beautiful golf courses, refreshing laps in the pool, or leisurely bike rides through the neighborhoods. The cooler evenings are ideal for outdoor concerts, patio gatherings with friends, and sunset walks along our closed golf course paths.
Community life also comes alive in the fall. From Halloween dances and craft fairs to Thanksgiving events, there are countless ways to connect with neighbors and celebrate the season together. It’s a time to join a new club, attend a social, or volunteer with one of the many organizations that keep our community thriving.
While we may not be raking piles of leaves, fall in Sun City Center is about enjoying the sunshine, embracing the cooler weather, and making the most of the friendships and activities that make our community so special.
the COA Office, 2020 Centre & both KP Clubhouses), US Postage Stamps, Coin Sorting, Fax Service.
JOIN THE KP COA TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE TO MEMBERS. ANNUAL FEE IS $5.00 PER MEMBER.
If your Association has not enrolled its owners in the COA, we invite you to stop in at 1902 Clubhouse Drive, join the COA for the Membership fee of $5.00, and have access to all the services offered by the COA.
We are proud to recognize Janet (Jan) Keener as October’s Volunteer of the Month. Jan moved to Kings Point in 2018 after hearing about the community from friends at her church, and she quickly became an active and generous part of Southampton II. Before settling here, she served her country in the U.S. Army, retiring with distinction as a Major. That dedication to service has carried over into her life in Kings Point, where she continues to give freely of her time and energy to help others. She also served as Landscaping
Point of Contact on the Southampton Board for several years, helping to enhance and maintain the beauty of the neighborhood.
Jan’s volunteer spirit can be seen in the many ways she supports her neighbors and community. She keeps an eye on homes while neighbors are away for the summer or on vacation, walks dogs when owners are unable, and has even cared for pets while their families were in the hospital or rehab. She often provides transportation to medical appointments, ensuring neighbors not only have a ride but also a supportive companion.
Her contributions also extend to the community’s appearance. Each year, she collects hundreds of bags of magnolia seed pods in Southampton II, helps pull trash cans back to garages on pickup days, and steps in after storms to rake, sweep, and bag debris. Whether planting flowers, tidying shared areas, or simply lending advice on who to contact for repairs, Jan’s efforts keep Southampton II looking its best and feeling like home.
Jan’s approachable nature, kindness, and willingness to step in wherever she’s needed make her a valued friend and neighbor. Her dedication strengthens the sense of community that makes Kings Point special. Please join us in congratulating Janet (Jan) Keener as the October Volunteer of the Month and in thanking her for her outstanding service to Southampton II.
