We are pleased to announce that the 2025 paving project is officially complete, resurfacing more than 214,442 square feet of roads with an average compacted depth of 2 inches. This year’s work improved both the appearance and safety of our streets while extending their useful life for many years to come.
The following areas were included in this year’s project:
•Tremont Greens Drive
•Staffordshire Lane
•Halmrock Place
•1802-1806 Fox Hunt Drive
•202-212 Gloucester Drive
•Portion of Canterbury Lane
•Kings Boulevard (two portions)
Thanks to the paving crews staying on schedule and favorable weather, we were also able to add a portion of Kings Boulevard between Falcon Watch and Hammersmith. Recent rains revealed road issues not seen in the original evaluation, and addressing them now saved the community from paying additional mobilization fees later. This addition was completed at the same favorable rate as the rest of the project.
Each year, the roads in Kings Point are carefully evaluated by paving professionals and ranked on a scale of 1–5, with 5 being the worst condition. Roads with the highest rankings are then prioritized for resurfacing, as long as they fall within the approved budget. This system was adopted approximately six years ago. Previously, roads were repaved on a time-based cycle, which sometimes resulted in resurfacing roads that were still in good shape while others in worse condition were overlooked. The switch to a needs-based system ensures funds are used wisely and attention is
given where it is most needed.
The results speak for themselves: when compared with roads just outside the Kings Point gates in Sun City Center, our community’s streets are in excellent condition.
Even Florida State Representative Michael Owen, former Hillsborough County Commissioner, remarked on the quality of Kings Point’s roads during his first visit to the community two years ago.
Over the past few years, asphalt prices have skyrocketed. Despite this, Kings Point secured a rate of $16 per square foot with Rose Paving. According to our consultant, Connie Lorenz, this was an exceptional value. She noted that her most recent request for proposals (RFP) to five companies returned the lowest bid at more than $18 per square foot.
It should also be noted that while our contract specifies a minimum compacted depth of 1.5 inches, Connie has ensured that Kings
Point receives an average of 2 inches, providing residents with added quality and longevity at no additional cost.
We are also thankful to former Master Association President Jim Haggerty, who secured a fiveyear contract with Rose Paving that saved the community approximately $400,000.00 over the term. That contract has provided stability and value during a time of rising costs. Next year, the project will go out for bid, though the Master Association will also explore securing another longterm contract if possible.
While paving can be disruptive, this year’s project was among the smoothest in recent memory. We are grateful for the cooperation of residents, the expertise of our partners, and the dedication of our team.
Special thanks to:
•Consultant Connie Lorenz – for her diligence, oversight, and commitment to ensuring the community receives the best
Master Board Elections – Call for Candidates
Elections for the Kings Point Master Association Board are just around the corner, with results to be announced at the Annual Membership Meeting on November 12. The Notice of Election will be mailed on September 12, and the deadline for nominations is October 6.
If you have experience in
areas such as infrastructure, roads, irrigation, stormwater management, or other relevant fields, we strongly encourage you to consider running for a seat on the board. Your knowledge and skills can make a real difference in shaping the future of our community.
We are looking for individuals who are collaborative, open-minded, and dedicated to the greater good. Effective board members are those who can work as a team, set aside personal agendas, listen to diverse viewpoints, and focus on making thoughtful decisions that benefit the community as a whole.
Together, we can continue to make Kings Point a strong and thriving place to live. If you’re ready to serve, we welcome your nomination.
possible value.
•Master Association Director George Cordelli – for his continued guidance and expertise in helping our General Manager oversee the paving project. With his background as Engineer in Charge for the New York Department of Transportation, George has been instrumental in overseeing paving projects in Kings Point. Two years ago, his leadership resulted in holding a vendor accountable, securing a $35,000 credit and an extended 10-year warranty for the community.
Connie also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the residents for their acts of kindness throughout the project—whether it was offering a refreshing treat, providing words of encouragement, opening their homes for hospitality, or simply showing support. These small but meaningful gestures reinforced the strong sense of community that makes Kings Point special. The work is done, the roads are smoother, and our community is stronger for it. The Kings Point paving program continues to be a model of smart planning, accountability, and collaboration. Our paving program ensures that our roads remain safe, attractive, and among the best in the area.
Reminder: Shared Email Accounts for UpKeep Access
This is a reminder that associations are encouraged to create a shared email account—such as a free Gmail or Yahoo address— for use with the UpKeep work order system. This was previously recommended as a way to improve communication and coordination among board members and Points of Contact (POCs), and we’re revisiting it now to ensure everyone is aware and taking advantage of this helpful option.
Once your shared email is created, please contact Kathy at kathy@ kpmaster.com. She will register the address in UpKeep, allowing all board members and POCs to log in using the same account. This shared access ensures that everyone can submit work orders, view updates in real time and see the full list of open and closed
requests—regardless of who entered them.
Currently, users can only view work orders they personally submitted, which can create confusion and limit transparency. Setting up a shared account resolves this issue and promotes better coordination within your association.
We’re also excited to announce that we’ll be holding a hands-on educational workshop this fall, once our seasonal residents begin returning. This workshop is open to all board members and POCs and will include a walkthrough of the UpKeep system, irrigation basics and a Q&A to address any association-specific concerns
Stay tuned for workshop dates and details,
WHAT IS TELEMEDICNE?
TELEMEDICINE is when a client/ patient receives medical care using an electronic interactive device and format/app such as zoom or a dedicated electronic platform specific for telemedicine.
IS TELEMEDICINE AVAILABLE FOR VETERINARY PATIENTS IN FLORIDA?
YES Florida licensed veterinarians may diagnose, consult and prescribe treatments and medications during/ following a telemedicine visit.
Each state has its own requirements that may include, but are not limited to, education, exams, fees, and standards for facilities, proper care, record keeping etc. Florida’s board of veterinary medicine (DBPR) REQUIRES a valid VCPR or Veterinary-Client-PatientRelationship that was defined as at least one in person exam within 12 months. Since Covid, there have been changes and in 2024 a law passed allowing a licensed veterinarian to establish a VCPR using only interactive remote electronic platforms.
While many things can be done via telemedicine, it is not as complete as an in-person visit. Problems
Rising Costs and Scope
In 2024, Americans reported $12.5 billion in total losses from scams and fraud—a 25% increase from $10 billion in 2023. Older adults remain especially vulnerable:
- Those in their 60s reported nearly $1.2 billion in losses.
- Victims aged 70–79 faced a median loss of $1,000 per victim, with total fraud losses of $887 million.
- Individuals 80+ suffered even higher median losses—$1,650, four times that of victims in their 20s. For impersonation scams (e.g., claiming to be from a government agency), older adults losing $100,000 or more reported a staggering eight-fold increase—from $55 million in 2020 to $445 million in 2024.
Romance Scams Today
Romance scams alone accounted for $1.14 billion in reported losses in 2023. The median loss per romance scam victim is around $2,000. New scam reports in Q1 2025 showed a 20% increase in romance scam rates compared to Q1 2024. About 40% of victims say their initial contact with the scammer occurred on social media.
As autumn arrives, nature puts on a beautiful show—the air grows crisp, leaves turn to gold and crimson, and the harvest brings an abundance of fresh produce and comforting flavors. Fall is more than just a season; it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and simple pleasures. From heart-healthy recipes that put a wholesome twist on seasonal favorites to exploring local festivals and markets, there are endless ways to savor the season.
Healthy Twists on Fall Recipes for Seniors Fall’s produce is naturally rich in nutrients, making it the perfect time to try wholesome meals that are as flavorful as they are nourishing. For seniors, enjoying lighter, nutrient-packed versions of classic comfort foods is a wonderful way to celebrate the season without sacrificing health.
Roasted Root Vegetables Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes are packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C. Tossed in olive oil with rosemary or thyme, then roasted until
Ask The Pet Vet
BY Sandra Yosha, DVM, PHD
with skin, ears, common NONURGENT signs such as diarrhea, excessive thirst, urinary urgency, discharge from nose, genital area or gastrointestinal and behavior issues might be handled using telemedicine OR veterinarians may refer the patient to a clinic, ER or specialist. Other services such as rechecks, monitoring and progress reports, pet matching advice for future pet adoptions, emotional support for hospice patients and euthanasia guidance can be done via telemedicine. Telemedicine can also help fill the gaps when transportation to a facility or financial resources are limited or unavailable.
For best results and whenever possible, the owner/client should provide a history of the problem(s) or concern(s), the species, breed, age, sex, neutered or spayed, a body temperature and weight. They should also provide a list of all current treatments and medicines AND upload a COMPLETE MEDICAL RECORD (not a receipt or summary) using the platform. Veterinary medical records must be kept for 3 years in Florida and must be provided to the client upon request. Additionally, it is possible for a telemedicine veterinarian to review other records, test results etc. and interpret them and offer diagnostic or treatment recommendations
Romance and Impersonation Scams
By Master Deputy Jeffery E.
Fraudsters continue adapting with sophisticated tactics, including pig butchering scams, where scammers transition victims into fake crypto investment schemes.
Emotional Tactics and AI Enhancement
Scammers exploit loneliness and emotional need, a tactic made even more effective by generative AI, which helps create convincing profiles and scripted messages. For older adults, scammers use “love-bombing” and manipulate reward responses to weaken defenses, making emotional attachment hard to break. Academic research warns that AI-enhanced scams targeting
seniors are becoming more prevalent and harder to detect.
Legislative Response
The Romance Scam Prevention Act, introduced in March 2025, would require dating apps to notify users if they’ve interacted with someone flagged or removed for fraud. This legislation is bipartisan and aims to protect especially senior citizens. In March 2025, Michigan’s Attorney General issued warnings specifically about pig-butchering scams that blend romance deception with fake cryptocurrency investments, urging vigilance and prompt reporting.
Seasonal Delights: Healthy Fall Flavors and Festive Finds
golden, they make a vibrant and heart-healthy side dish.
Pumpkin Soup with a Healthy Twist Pumpkin is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, and when blended into a smooth soup with low-sodium broth and warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, it creates a cozy dish that’s light yet satisfying. Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
Apple Crisp with Oats Instead of a butter-heavy crust, try a crumble topping made with rolled oats, a touch of honey, and a dash of cinnamon. It offers the sweetness of apple pie with added fiber and fewer calories—perfect with a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Harvest Grain Bowls
Mix quinoa, roasted squash, cranberries, and spinach for a colorful bowl that’s packed with vitamins and protein. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing, filling meal.
Butternut Squash Mash
so that decisions can be made regarding current and future care.
Additional services can be offered for pets via electronic interactive platforms but like anything else on the internet, you should be cautious. Check credentials before using an unknown unlicensed source.
Florida
Effective July 1, 2024, FL H0849 amended the Florida Veterinary Practice Act via the Providing Equity in Telehealth Services (PETS) Act. This section authorizes veterinarians licensed in Florida to practice veterinary telehealth as follows:
• A valid VCPR must be present. A synchronous (live) video visit may be used to establish the VCPR.
• Prescriptions made based on this virtual VCPR can be for no more than 1 month of flea/ tick prevention and no more than 14 days’ worth of other animal drugs before an in-person exam is required. Veterinarians may not prescribe compounded drugs, controlled drugs, or drugs that are to be used in an extralabel fashion without having previously conducted an in-person physical exam.
Recommendations: How to Stay Safe
• Never send money or gifts to someone you haven’t met in person.
• Watch for red flags: reluctance to video call, fast-moving emotional attachments, urgent financial requests (for plane tickets, surgery, visas, crypto investments), or requests for payment via gift cards or cryptocurrency.
• If you suspect a scam:
- Talk with someone you trust or seek a second opinion.
- Use reverse image search on profile photos, and search online for scam reports tied to their claimed identity.
-Stop payments and communication immediately. -Report to the FTC (via ReportFraud. ftc.gov), as well as to the relevant app, local authorities, or sheriff’s office.
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.
This smooth and naturally sweet dish is an excellent alternative to mashed potatoes, offering a dose of vitamin A and potassium. For an extra boost, try blending in a touch of Greek yogurt for creaminess without the butter.
Exploring Local Fall Festivals and Markets
Beyond the kitchen, fall is also a time to enjoy community events and local traditions. Farmers’ markets and seasonal festivals are filled with the sights, smells, and tastes of autumn.
Farmers’ Markets
Autumn markets are overflowing with apples, pears, gourds, and squash. These outings are not only a chance to bring home the freshest produce, but also to connect with local farmers and artisans who take pride in their harvests.
Fall Festivals
From pumpkin patches to harvest fairs, these events bring communities together with live music, hayrides, craft booths, and
seasonal treats. Warm apple cider, homemade breads, and even freshly baked pumpkin donuts often make an appearance.
Crafts and Local Goods
Many fall events feature local vendors offering handmade crafts, preserves, and baked goods. These make thoughtful seasonal gifts or unique decorations for the home.
The Joy of Community Attending these events is about more than just shopping—it’s about celebrating traditions, meeting neighbors, and sharing in the joy of the season.
Making the Most of Autumn Fall is a reminder to slow down, savor flavors, and embrace simple joys. Whether you’re cozying up with a bowl of warm soup, baking a lighter version of your favorite dessert, or taking a stroll through a local harvest festival, this season offers countless opportunities to create lasting memories.
Whether or not to attract deer in your landscape
ByLynn Barber, Florida-Friendly LandscapingTM Agent UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County
This article is for those of you that are unhappy about deer damaging your landscape plants and for those of you who love to see deer in your landscape. There are publications mentioned near the end of this article that will help you learn about plants deer want to eat.
As with pretty much everything, proper identification is the first step – a must-do. You can identify the cause of the damage by the type, height of damage and tracks (hoof prints). Just review the information at the link provided near the end of this article.
Deer and humans have some similar traits, such as issues with breaking habits once established. If deer find a landscape with tasty, plentiful and nutrition-filled food sources, they may well eat to their hearts’ -- aka stomachs’ -- content. Hungry deer can consume native plant areas and decrease plant species populations. There are several ways to
manage deer populations. Some methods can be permanent, like hunting during designated seasons. Research hunting deer before proceeding. Other deer-population-management methods involve avoiding specific plants to which deer are attracted. Crape myrtle and bottle brush are deer resistant.
Frightening devices (fireworks, etc.) may work temporarily, although you may irritate your neighbors at the same time. Removing wildlife habitats to decrease deer populations is not a good option. That removes cover, habitat and food sources for deer and other native and non-native birds and animals.
Repellents can decrease the amount of damage but rarely eliminate it. If you do want to attract deer, select plants that are susceptible to deer. If you don’t want to attract deer, plant deer resistant plants.
This year, the Kings Point community is proud to support Forgotten Angels as our selected charity for the Holiday Events. Forgotten Angels is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Valrico, Florida, dedicated to helping youth who are aging out of foster care, at-risk teens, and recently released incarcerated young adults. Their mission is to provide not just shelter, but the tools, skills, and community support young people need to build independent and fulfilling lives.
Each year, more than 20,000 young people age out of foster care across the United States, often without a safety net. Many face homelessness, unemployment, or difficulty accessing higher education. Forgotten Angels steps in to change these outcomes by offering practical guidance, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.
At their 12+ acre Valrico property, youth not only receive safe housing, but also take part in programs that help them thrive. They build their own tiny homes, learn financial literacy, gain work experience, and receive support with education, transportation, and even healthcare needs. The environment includes peaceful ponds, gardens, and community spaces designed for healing and growth.
The Master Association was awarded a 2025 Bay Mini-Grant from the Tampa Bay Estuary Program (https://tbep.org/) to work toward improving local water quality and ecosystem serving of our suburban environment. This project began in January and will continue through December. We’re making progress!
Specifically, the scope of work includes improving our shared spaces by removing invasive plants like torpedo grass, Caeser weed, water hyacinth, and Brazilian peppertree from 19 ponds throughout Master ponds. After those less desirable plants are removed, contractors will install native plants like golden canna, muhly grass, blue flag iris, and pickerelweed. Once established, native plants require far less maintenance than invasive and non-native plants. Native plants are also better for water quality and wildlife. They absorb more water (reduces impacts from flooding), reduce shoreline erosion, retain nitrogen and carbon, prevent nutrient pollution downstream into the Little Manatee River and Tampa Bay, and provide diverse habitat for wildlife. We have already seen an increase in nesting duck populations from previous planting efforts.
Not to be forgotten are the more than 8.000 of us that live here and our individual yards, lawns, and
gardens. Each household plays a role in our local estuary’s health. Together we can collectively work toward a healthy, thriving, and abundant ecosystem full of fish, birds, and crabs with clean air, healthy people, and a solid economy. That’s where the educational piece of this project comes in.
Several volunteers from the Stormwater and Pond Management Committee are working to provide information about best practices related to our landscaping and how those choices affect water quality. Excess nitrogen is the top pollutant of concern in our local waterways, and the top source of that type of pollution is stormwater, followed by wastewater and atmospheric deposition. Nitrogen gives plants a growth boost, but much of that fertilizer ends up in our waterways from rain and irrigation runoff which then feeds harmful algal blooms in both fresh and saltwater. Slowing down stormwater runoff with permeable surfaces like native plant groundcovers (frogfruit, sunshine mimosa, creeping sage) and using fertilizer and irrigation on a very limited basis are great ways to do your part or our ecosystem.
We’re proud to have received the 2025 Bay Mini-Grant with special thanks to Annie Collyer for writing the grant. This program is funded by sales of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program’s specialty license plate, also known as the “Tarpon Tag.” Get yours from the DMV next time you renew your registration.
Why Kings Point Chose Forgotten
Angels
The holiday season is a time for giving, and Kings Point wanted to choose a charity that truly embodies hope, transformation, and second chances. Forgotten Angels’ mission deeply aligns with our community’s values of compassion, care, and support for those in need. By shining a spotlight on their work, we can help provide more resources and opportunities for these young adults to succeed.
Events & Community Impact
Forgotten Angels hosts annual campouts, raffles, and fundraising events—often featuring everything from Harley-Davidsons to dream home giveaways—to sustain their mission. Kings Point’s Holiday Events will now add to that impact by raising awareness and support for this remarkable organization.
By partnering with Forgotten Angels this holiday season, Kings Point is helping extend the gift of opportunity to young adults who might otherwise be overlooked. Together, we can make a real difference in their lives—empowering them to build a future filled with stability, independence, and hope.
To learn more about Forgotten Angels and their mission, please visit their website at www. forgottenangelsflorida.org
COA REGULAR HOURS RETURN SEPTEMBER 2
Beginning September 2 the COA will return to regular hours: open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM – Noon.
The COA will resume providing our regular services, including Notary Services (by appointment), Copies (also the copiers in the clubhouses), US Postage Stamps, Fax Service, Shredding Service, etc.
The copier currently located in the Falcon Watch Building will be moved to the 2020 Centre for the convenience of COA Members.
Planning for the upcoming fall and winter season has begun. We continue to work with the Master and Federation on events such
as a holiday Golf Cart Parade, holiday Home Lighting Contest, and a Party at the Heritage Park.
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.
This month, we are proud to recognize Donald “Donnie” Rapol as our Volunteer of the Month. Donnie’s story is one of kindness, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to helping others.
Originally from Roseville, Ohio, Donnie spent much of his career working at a steel foundry as a maintenance professional. In 2010, he and his wife decided to make Kings Point their home, moving into Southampton II. Their decision was inspired by Donnie’s mother-in-law, who was already a resident. After many visits, they quickly fell in love with the welcoming atmosphere of Kings Point and the strong sense of community.
Since moving here, Donnie has become a trusted neighbor and a true pillar of support. He goes above and beyond to make a difference every day—whether it’s diligently checking on neighbors’ condos while they’re away, assisting with upkeep and maintenance, or simply being there for someone in need. His knowledge, skill, and willingness to help have made him an invaluable resource to those around him.
One outstanding example of his dedication came when a neighbor was away and Donnie discovered their water heater was leaking. Without hesitation, he contacted a plumber, stayed on-site until the repairs were complete, and made sure the home was safe and secure. This is just one of many instances where Donnie’s quick action and reliability have prevented what could have been serious issues for his neighbors. Neighbors often describe Donnie as someone who “can fix almost anything,” but his true gift lies in the way he builds connections and fosters a sense of belonging. Whether it’s offering advice, lending tools, or simply sharing a laugh, he brings people together and strengthens the bonds that make our neighborhood special.
Feline Folks is excited to announce their next highly popular Jewelry Sale Fundraiser. This special event will be held Tuesday, September 9, 2025 from 10 AM to 1:00PM in the Kings Point North Clubhouse Banquet Room. Entry is a $5.00 donation at the door or a donation of a gently used piece of jewelry. The items for sale start at $3.00. Payment will be accepted by cash, check and credit card. Feline Folks is happy to welcome everyone in Sun City Center and the surrounding areas to this fun event. All proceeds will help Feline Folks continue feeding, neutering, vaccinating and re-homing our community free roaming cats during these challenging times.
For more information you can meet the volunteers at their Meow Mixers held the first Thursday of each month. The meeting starts at 3 PM followed by light refreshments in the West Social Room in the Kings Point North Clubhouse. Everyone is welcome.
For further information contact Feline Folks via Email: Info@ FelineFolks.us - Website: www. felinefolks.us or Facebook: felinefolksofsuncitycenter.
