News of Sun City Center January 2026

The News of

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SUN CITY CENTER COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Sun City Center

January 2026

CA SCHEDULE January, 2026

1 Holiday CA Office & Library Closed Facilities Closed 5 Board Workshop Rollins Theater – 9 a.m.

Zoom: 814 6793 9486 Passcode: 043706 7 Annual Membership Meeting Community Hall – 3 p.m.

Zoom: 898 1337 1111 Passcode: 496235 14 Board Meeting Rollins Theater – 9 a.m.

Zoom: 839 6353 6002 Passcode: 790493 20 Club Leaders Meeting Florida Room – 10 a.m.

Zoom: 891 2952 7709 Passcode: 192394 22 Supplemental Board Meeting Board Room – 1 p.m.

Agendas for the monthly Board Meetings will be posted on the Official Bulletin Board in the Atrium the Friday before and on the CA website “www. suncitycenter.org” – under “Residents” – Upcoming Meeting Agendas). They will also be sent via “What’s New in the CA” email.

Magnolia Lakes POA Dedicates a Peace Garden

By Bob Sanchez The Magnolia Lakes POA dedicated its new Peace Garden on West Del Webb Boulevard on December 6, with dozens of residents in attendance. With this ceremony, the POA joined the Global Peace Pole Network, which has over 250,000 Peace Poles worldwide.

“May Peace Prevail on Earth” is inscribed on the Peace Pole in English, Spanish, German, and Japanese. Inspiration for the first such pole arose after the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The program included music by the Orange Blossom Ukes and remarks by Magnolia Lakes POA President Susan Rendsland, Denise Chamberlain, Tina Hatch, Reverend Cynthia Weems, and Matt Merritt. Special recognition went to the late Helga Balter, who served for 22 years as the president of Magnolia Lakes POA. Donors and sponsors included the Hillsborough County Commissioners’ Neighborhood Mini-Grant Program, Brightview Landscape Services, the

Sun City Center Charitable Foundation, and Magnolia Lakes residents. Many residents donated dozens of native Florida plants, reclaiming a strip of land that had been overgrown for years.

Project leads were Denise Chamberlain, Matt Merritt, and Julie and Ron Nelson.

Volunteers included John and Elaine Armstrong, Margaret Bell, Irina Davis, Tina Hatch, Rosalie and Jerry Kelleher, Susan Rendsland, Rick and Sandy Snyder, Julie Ware, Gayle and Ed Weber, and Pam Windspirit.

CA Contact Information Administration Office 1009 N. Pebble Beach Blvd, SCC 813.633.3500 Hours 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., M-F sccboard@suncitycenter.org Website: suncitycenter.org Information Center: 813.633.4670

Photo Club Best of the Best

Loving Touch, Sherry Kalczynski

December 9 was an exciting night for the SCC Photo club as they selected the Best of the Best Picture. Judge Leslie Harris Senac reviewed pictures that had won awards during the year and selected the best in each category, then selected the best from the top pictures.

Congratulations go to Sherry Kalczynski

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for her beautiful color picture “Loving Touch”. Runner up was “Proud Eagle”

by Bruce Crain.

Winners in each categor y were as follows: Digital Creative, Sherry Kalczynski for “Flowing in the Breeze”, Digital Documentary, Dale Hughes for “Looky There”, Digital Mono, Wayne Adams for “Philadelphia Art”, Print Color , Bruce Crain for “Proud Eagle”, Print Creative, Fran Beeson for “Return to Sender”, print Documentary, Nick Fader for “Going to the Game with Dad”, and Print Mono, Bruce Crain for “Awe Nuts”.

SCC Photo Club Awards Luncheon On 19th February 2026 we will award medals and ribbons to our 2025 Best

Proud Eagle, Bruce Crain

of the Best winners . There will be silver medals for the winners of each competition category, and the runner up to Best of the Best and a gold medal to the overall Best of the Best.

Three course buffet lunch provided by Banquet Masters. In The Florida Room.

This is a BYOB event. Spouses, partners, friends, relatives and your guests are more than welcome as long as you are an active member of the photo club. Tickets are available on the SCC Photo Club website, under the upcoming events and trips category.

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January 2026

The News of Sun City Center

THANK YOU TO ALL VOLUNTEERS WHO HELPED ON COMMITTEES AND WITH THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS IN 2025!

SCCCA MEMBERSHIP MEETING WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 7, 2026 3:00 PM – COMMUNITY HALL REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED AT 2:30 PM ALSO, VIA ZOOM Meeting ID: 898 1337 1111 Passcode: 496235 200 SCCCA members required for a Quorum CA Membership Cards are required for admittance -AGENDAI. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance II. Approval of Minutes:

October 22, 2025 III. Installation of newly elected Directors IV. President’s Report V. Treasurer’s Report VI. Community Manager’s Report VII. Central Campus Upgrade Project Discussion X. General Discussion by Members XI. Adjournment

Volunteer Luncheon

In appreciation of your hard work, dedication and support given to the CA throughout the year, the Board of Directors cordially invites you to attend a picnic lunch in your honor on: THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 20th, 2026 FLORIDA ROOM 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Veterans Photo Shoot For SCCCA Members

January 17, 2026 The next photo shoot for the Veterans Wall of Honor Project as shown in the Atrium will be on Saturday, January 17, 2026 from 10 am to 12 noon in the Photo Lab located in the multi-purpose building at the corner of North Course Lane and N. Pebble Beach Blvd. The address for the Photo Lab is 1203 North Pebble Beach Blvd. This is available for all Community Association members who served honorably in any branch of the U.S. Military. Men should wear a shirt with a collar and women should not wear dangling earrings.

Please call Alisha Marshall at the CA office (813-6333500) to register, along with your CA membership number, by 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026 and you will be assigned a specific time.

Statement of Purpose

The Sun City Center Community Association serves the residents of Sun City Center by providing assistance for the elderly, assistance and essential services to tax exempt entities, and operates in lieu of a municipal government, thereby lessening the burdens of government (Hillsborough County, Florida).

Security Patrol Fundraiser

By Mike Lee The Woodstock Festival is universally regarded as one of the seminal events in rock and roll history, as well as providing some of the greatest music that boomers have been treated to in their lifetimes. Many people fondly remember the performances of great artists like The Who, Santana, Creedence Clearwater Band, Jimi Hendrix, and many more.

If this music is “your” music, you’re in luck!

The Sun City Center Security Patrol is holding a fundraiser that will give residents the opportunity to have a great time while also supporting their essential service in helping make the Sun City Center area the safest place to live in Hillsborough County. The tribute band, Peace of Woodstock, will be performing in the Community Hall on February 22 at 2 p.m.

Come relive your memories with this great band! Tickets are $30, and can be purchased at the Security Patrol, 1225 N. Pebble Beach Boulevard, from 9:00-3:00. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted.

Board Meeting Recap

President’s Report

By Ron Clark, CA President Happy New Year Everyone! Here’s wishing you and yours a healthy and prosperous 2026. It will be a great 2026 for CA members. The December referendum approved the $346 annual dues, which is a bargain for all the wonderful amenities we enjoy. We will also make substantial progress on the Central Campus Upgrade project which will keep our facilities modern and attractive to enjoy while protecting the value of our homes. The new Applied Arts building (Phase 1A) is estimated to be completed by April 16, 2026. By a 78% to 22% margin, the December voters approved the new restaurant/bar and resort style pool (Phase 1B).

Construction is estimated to start by June 1, 2026 with a one year 1B completion schedule.

The Board appreciates the strong member support for the Central Campus Upgrade project and will continue to focus on implementing the Master Plan approved in May 2023 while also improving other amenities on our campus. Progress must be a continuous effort.

I would like to thank the Board of Directors, Community Manager Reitz, and her staff for their hard work in 2025. We recognize and appreciate the accomplishments of outgoing Directors Debbie Caneen and Nancy McCall, and welcome newly elected Directors Greg Eisman and Wayne Keyes. Director Carrie Blaylock continues on the Board and has provided leadership for many of our event activities.

I would also like to thank the many CA members who volunteer on committees, clubs, and other organizations as our CA community runs efficiently and cost effectively based on volunteers. We hope you will take the time to complete a Help Us Govern SCC form to volunteer to serve on a committee in 2026. They are available at the CA Office and online at “suncitycenter.org/visitors/volunteerism.html” (Go to “Click here”).

Speaking of volunteers, mark your calendars to attend the CA sponsored Wednesday Night Live event at 3PM and 7PM on February 11, 2026 at Community Hall.

A comedian and the SCC Men’s Golden Review are back by popular demand. All proceeds will go to the volunteer organizations of Emergency Squad, Security Patrol, and Samaritans.

Again, 2026 will be a great year for the Community Association. We have so many things to be grateful for by living in our wonderful community. Please enjoy the moment and as always, let’s all remember to be respectful, positive, and kind while having fun in our senior years.

Woodstock Festival is Community Fun

By Bob Sanchez The Sun City Center Board of Directors held its monthly meeting in the Rollins theater on December 10, 2025.

Corporate Secretary Debbie Caneen acknowledged resident donations totaling $4,935. She certified the results of the election recount, that Carrie Blaylock received 1351 votes, and Jeffrey Wright received 1338.

Wayne Keyes, Greg Eisman, and Carrie Blaylock each won 3-year terms. The membership dues of $346 per member were approved by a vote of 2237 to 646. The Phase 1B budget and financing were approved by a vote of 2258 to 624. The new CA officers are President Ron Clark, Vice President Julie Porto, Treasurer Jim Collins, and Corporate Secretary Carrie Blaylock.

Treasurer Jim Collins reported the following balances as of November 30, 2025: Capital Fund $5,459,994 including • Phase 1A commitment $1,890,998 • Uncommitted $3,568,996 Replacement Fund $1,169,427 Operations Fund $1,559,228 Renovation Fund $89,265 There were 33 home transfers in November, adding $99,000 to the Capital Fund. The average number of

transfers for the year to date is 35.

Community Manager Lyn Reitz reported that the Applied Arts Building is progressing on time and on budget. Membership dues coupons will be mailed around the end of the month. For anyone who pays by check, please be sure to include the coupon, whether you mail it or drop it off at the bank. Your 2026 stickers will be available about 10 days after payment. She once again asks residents to not enter areas marked off by cones or tape. Total resident count is 11,283; total membership dues 11,372.

Director Nancy McCall announced a Battle of the Bands Showcase for January 16 from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Community Hall. Also, on Sunday, January 18, at 3 p.m. in Community Hall, there will be a performance

by Haig Yaghoobian, who played the piano at the Ms. Sun City Center event, and Rick Aaron and Vladimir Petrov, with proceeds to benefit Phase 1B. A reception will follow.

In new business, the Board approved amending several policies to clarify 501(c)(3) regulations, to have the policy state what the Club Officer must do to receive payment for instruction, and clarify that all clubs must keep a portion of the fee paid for lessons or instructions.

Newcomers List prepared from CA staff data. Report corrections, additions to CA at 633-3500. 11/13, 2025 thru 12/11, 2025

Local Adress

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January 2026

History Society of SCC

Many of us know the Old Town Hall Building as home to the Rollins Theater.

Built in 1961, on the Central Campus, the building has also been home to the Weavers Club, Billiards, The Front Porch Pickers and a conference room used by many clubs for their meetings, as well as a variety of other uses. With the changes and new development on Central Campus we will soon be saying goodbye to the building. Bittersweet as always, the old has to make way for the new and the Rollins Theater will soon be dropping the final curtain on its stage.

The stage has been used for many memorable performances by various groups over the years. The most recent performance was by the Par for the Chorus members for a Christmas concert. The concert, which was very well attended, was a wonderful example of just one of the very talented groups we are fortunate to have in SCC. The

The News of Sun City Center

History Society would welcome hearing from residents, any of the memories they have of the theater or clubs throughout the years. Remember, that even though the building will be gone, the memories remain and documenting them is important for the future.

Memorabilia that has been saved over the years from events held in the theater would also be welcomed as a donation to the History Society. If anyone has anything to offer it can be sent to “SCCHistorysoc@gmail.com” or dropped off at the Information Center, on the corner of N. Pebble Beach Blvd and 901 Cherry Hills Dr., where our office is located. Another reason to visit our office in the Information Center is to pick up a copy of the Sixty Years in Sun City Center, Florida book for $25. It offers an interesting review of the history of Sun City Center which is Florida’s first planned retirement community.

Shuffleboard Party

By Mike Lee The SCC Shuffleboard Club recently held its annual Christmas dinner and dance. The club’s social committee worked hard to put on an entertaining and memorable party for the club members and their guests. The party featured a catered dinner, holiday and dancing music with Kevin Brooks, and many surprises.

CA - 3

The Shuffleboard Club is currently playing winter hours, with sign-in at 12:30 and play at 12:45 on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday. Free lessons are provided every Friday at 12:30. In addition to the dinner/dance, the club has other special events and social activities throughout the year. Annual dues are $20. Come join the fun!

Happy 100th Birthday, Phyllis Lee

Par for the Chorus Christmas Concert

By Mike Lee Par For the Chorus, complete with their first female member, held a charity show, featuring their first female member, in front of a capacity crowd recently in the Rollins Theater. Proceeds from the show went to the Community Association Future Facilities Fund, and to the chorus.

The show was presented in the style of radio broadcasts from the past, and included traditional Christmas music and old-time radio commercials, with some humor, admittedly corny, mixed in. The format was presented by a fictional radio station, WSUN.

By Gilbert Rucketts Phyllis Lee of Sun City Center celebrated her 100th birthday at a party hosted by the Mexican Train Club. Born on December 13, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio, she enjoyed her special day by playing her weekly dominoes game with thirty other Mexican Train Club members, having lunch, eating her favorite pumpkin-caramel dessert, and drinking punch.

When asked about the secret to living to 100, she said, “Have a good time and behave yourself!”

Phyllis has seen a lot of changes since 1925, as shown on a banner displayed at her birthday party, describing how things were when she was born: Calvin Coolidge was president, a new car cost $525, and $2,500 was the price of a new house.

Phyllis shares her birthday with comedy legend Dick Van Dyke, who celebrated his 100th birthday on the same day.

Living to 100 years is a remarkable achievement! Congratulations.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

A Gingerbread Golf Cart Parade December 6th

CLUBS 4 - CA

The News of Sun City Center

January 2026

NOTICE: Each community and club in Sun City Center and Kings Point has specific rules about membership and attendance. Unless specifically stated or posted, most venues, meetings and events hosted on the Community Association campus and in Kings Point require attendees to bring their SCC CA or KP ID or come with a resident member. When in doubt, contact the club in question - not the venue or association - prior to arrival. Thanks.

Art Club of SCC Demo

Monday, January 26, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

945 Cherry Hills Drive The Art Club of Sun City Center welcomes a new instructor, Judy Kubas, who will give a demo on acrylic texture painting. All are welcome Kubas brings a vast knowledge of a variety of media from her 40 years as an art teacher. In addition to the demo, she will provide a workshop on the same topic for art club members Saturday, February 21, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. A $40 fee is due at signup. Attendees will learn techniques to create visually interesting surfaces on their art work with the help of mediums like modeling paste.

Computer Club Monthly Meeting

Tuesday, January 13 at 6 p.m.

Atrium Florida Room Judy Lee will present “Beginning Genealogy for Seniors”. Judy will cover the basics of genealogical research by utilizing the top two sites – Family Search and Ancestry.com.

Computer Club Classes

The Computer Club Lab is open from 12:30 to 4:30, every day except Sunday. Come into the Lab to register for a class. Students must be a member in good standing at Sun City Center or Kings Point. Tuition is payable, by cash or check, upon registration. For additional information email: Debra Vance Shimerda, Education Director at “education@scccomputerclub.org”.

Is There a Right Time to Buy a Computer • Thursday, January 8, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Beginner Class How to Use a Computer • Monday, January 12, Wednesday, January 14, and Friday January 16, from 10 to noon.

An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence • Tuesday, January 20, from 10 to noon.

Beginning Genealogy for Seniors • Wednesday, January 21 and 28, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Movie Maker • Thursday, January 22, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

SCC Swim Dancers

Just like a mosaic is made up of many individual tiles, our show is made up of several individual performances. Each one is unique and contributes to the overall picture. They are all held together by the spirit, love and respect each of our swimmers have for each other. Our next show will be held on February 1st, 2026 at 2 p.m. in the lap pool (North Campus). Tickets go on sale 1/19/26 and can be purchased from any Swim Dancer, the Atrium Kiosk from 10 am to noon (Monday, Wednesday or Friday) or at the door on the day of the show. The cost per ticket is $5. We really hope to see you there.

Monday Movies Rollins Theater

Second and Fourth Monday, 1 p.m.

Movie attendees must present a current SCCCA ID Badge, a SCCCA Guest Card or a Kings Point Usage Card to attend. Dates and time may be changed if necessary.

Theater capacity is limited to 145 attendees per the Hillsborough County Fire Code.

January 12 – Retro Movie Monday • Chicago (1 hour, 53 minutes) Nightclub sensation Velma murders her philandering husband and Chicago’s slickest lawyer Billy Flynn is set to defend her. But Roxie winds up in prison also and Billy takes on her case as well … turning her into a media circus of headlines.

Neither woman will be outdone in their fight against each other and the public for fame and celebrity.

Starring: Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renee Zellweger, Richard Gere, Queen Latifah Genre: Musical, Drama Rating: PG 13 for sexual dialogue and content, thematic elements, violence January 26 • Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale (2 hours, 3 minutes) The cinematic return of the global phenomenon follows the Crawley family and their staff as they enter the 1930s. When Mary finds herself at the center of a public scandal and the family faces financial trouble, the entire household grapples with the threat of social disgrace. The Crawleys must embrace change as the staff prepares for a new chapter with the next generation leading Downton Abbey into the future.

Starring: Michelle Dockery, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Laura Carmichael Genre: Drama Rating: PG for some thematic elements, smoking, suggestive material

Beginning Quilting Class

The Sew’n Sews club of Sun City Center is offering a Beginning Quilting Class beginning Thursday, January 15 from 9 to 12 that will run for eight scheduled Thursdays. The class is open to all members of the Sun City Center Community Association and Kings Point Activity card holders. Membership dues of $10 for the Sew’n Sews club are required. Additionally, there is a $10 fee for the class. All dues and fees must be paid before the beginning of the class. You must know how to use a sewing machine in order to be in this class. Participants will learn how to make a table runner or four place mats comprising four basic quilt blocks. The class will teach how to use a rotary cutter, sew a 1/4 inch seam, read instructions, select fabric, create quilt blocks, put them together, sandwich them, quilt in straight lines, and bind your product. Participants may bring their own sewing machines to the club or use a Sew’n Sew machine. Those who want to use a club machine must complete an orientation session to the club’s sewing machines before the class begins. Contact Class Coordinator, Wanda Jorgensen (813-650-3793) or “w.jorgensen069@gmail.com”, with any questions.

Pottery Club Totem Raffle Winners

Sun City residents were lucky winners of the SCC Potters Wheel Club’s totem raffle held during the Holiday Walk on Saturday, December 6. Winner Debbie Wittrock is pictured with her Salt Lifethemed totem. Other raffle winners were Andy Gyrewski, Anita Hammer and Laura Dyer.

Totems are made by teams of potters at the Potters Wheel studio and more team-made totems were sold during the event. These ceramic, custom-made yard decorations are very popular around SCC. This year the Totem Team effort, led by Patsy Grant, brought in high interest from the community.

The Potters Wheel Club, located directly south of the outdoor pool on Cherry Hills Drive, is open Monday through Friday mornings for pottery sales.

of Sun City Center & South County News Line: 813.938.7441 • Ad Line: 813.938.8721 • www.soco.news • January 2026

A Gingerbread Golf Cart Parade

By Bob Sanchez Sun City Center held its annual Golf Cart Parade on December 6, with 48 carts decorated for a Gingerbread theme.

Individual winners 1. Susan Ronald & Rhonda Walker 2. Phyllis Lee 3. Ken Wagner Phyllis Lee also won a raffle drawing and turned 100 in December!

Group winners 1. Security Patrol (Sandra Danen) 2. Front Porch Pickers (Marie Everett and Jan Ring) 3. Needlecrafters (Deb Collins)

Phyllis Lee

Holiday Magic and Fun in Wimauma

By Andrea L.T. Peterson Santa’s Wonderland Festival brought holiday joy to the young and the young at heart this past December. The festival offered fun, food, games, and holiday wonder that put a smile on countless faces.

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January 2026

The News

The Editor’s Corner

Falling Up

By E. Adam Porter

Editor, News of SCC & South County “Falling Up” is the name of a 1996 book of (primarily) children’s poetry by author, illustrator, and lyricist, Shel Silverstein. Most folks know Silverstein from “The Giving Tree” and “A Boy Named Sue.” Falling Up is a collection of verse that borrows the heart, weirdness, and whimsy from both of those compositions. I was introduced to it by my bride, who loves Silverstein’s signature brand of clever wordplay and chaotic storytelling.

It’s not our favorite collection— both “Where the Sidewalk Ends” and “A Light in the Attic” are better, but the title poem, “Falling Up,” has been on my mind this past week. In the poem, a boy trips over his shoelaces and falls up instead of down. It’s a strange, short little work, but these few lines have been on my mind: “Up past the treetops, over the mountains… Up where the colors blend into the sounds…”

The lines are evocative in a simple, sideways way that is pure Silverstein. I’ve been thinking about them ever since

I fell down my front stairs while packing my SUV to drive up into the Smoky Mountains.

Christmas in the Smokies—we had been planning this trip for months, a fun escape and a new twist on the traditional good ol’ fashioned family Christmas.

We planned to leave out at o-dark-30 a few days before Christmas, so my boys and I were packing the truck for the trip. I slipped and—suddenly—there was nothing beneath me but empty air and a sudden stop.

Docs in the ER did all the scans, poking, prodding, and films, eventually determining that “there was severe bruising, strains, sprains, and nothing broken.” Translation: Vacation Tentatively Approved—with the caveat that long hikes over unstable ground was a “no go” and pain was my leg telling me to get off it, put it up, and ice it. As we drove back home from the ER, my bride and I laid all the facts out side by side.

We were going on a backto-nature vacation: cabin on the top of a mountain, hiking in the forests, picnicking in the woods—with a one-day stop in the Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts Community for Christmas shopping. My not-quite-busted leg would be a significant detriment to the itinerary as planned.

So… we could stay home and ice the leg, or we could hit the road and make the best of it.

I decided I’d much rather we “fall up” than lay down. So, we did… packed up the truck and pointed it north to the

News of Freedom Plaza

By Peggy Burgess “Fabulous!” best describes Freedom Plaza’s look during December, from the illuminated portico and the atrium’s garlandencircled grandeur to the holiday touches in almost every nook and corner. As well, the December calendar was filled with equally fabulous holiday events and excursions. It all started at the end of November when a Christmas tree was set up in the atrium. Almost overnight it was beautifully decorated, and well before the December 3rd date of our 33rd tree-lighting ceremony.

Watching that seamless process brought memories of Freedom Plaza’s very first Christmas treelighting…or rather its (almost) tree-lighting minus a tree!

Though Freedom Plaza’s opening, in 1992, was under a hot August sun, plans for its first Christmas began immediately. Freedom Plaza’s first Christmas Tree New- resident crafters were 1992 recruited and it was decided that holiday festivities would center around a magnificent atrium tree with hand-made Victorian decorations. A gigantic artificial tree was ordered and shopping expeditions to craft stores began. They yielded reams of ribbon and lace; gold and pearl beading; silk flowers, etc. and crafters spent months creating fans, dolls, posies, parasols, and other Victorian treasures. They also became better acquainted, with lasting friendships made, while having “first Christmas tree” fun.

Mid-November and decorations waiting…but where was the tree?

Seems it had been shipped by mistake to a Kansas warehouse and had to be re-directed. Finally, it arrived-- in multiple boxes of long, long branches to sort, fluff, fit-in, light, then decorate. The lift was brought in and work (directed by a bevy of cheerful “side-walk superintendents”) continued dawn to dusk and night-time, too. At last, the tree was done—26-feet of Victorian splendor—and just in time for Freedom Plaza’s initial tree-lighting ceremony. Never, before nor since, has “O, Christmas Tree” been sung with such fervent joy!

mountains, to places where colors blended in with the sounds. We did not know how it would go—or if I would even be able to “go” much at all, but I figured we would make more memories in the mountains than from the couch.

And… we did…

Each of us came away with a fistful of Lifelong Joy Cards to pull out and lay on the table when life gets us down—smiles and ideas that would be nothing but blank cards if we made a different choice. For four days, my trip was a carousel of ice and Ace bandages, pain killers and elevation—mixed with flashes of elation and illumination on the faces of my boys and quiet moments with my beautiful bride. I got to see the spark of inspiration in her eyes too, from something entirely surprising, found in a place we almost drove right past.

I’m writing this on Day 5 of the trip. We still have two days on

the road coming home—two more days of possibility before we step back into the Standard Routine. Well… one of us might hobble more than step, but I’m getting around a lot better than I was—and maybe better than I should be. Still a bit swollen, still a bit stiff, but full of hope and happiness… which is a great way to start the New Year.

So… I don’t know what you are facing in the coming year, and I don’t know how the past trip around the sun treated you.

For me, it’s been a mixed bag of earned attaboys, close misses, and unexpected pratfalls, a gumbo of seizing the day and having The Day do its level best to knock me down.

Through it all, I’m reminded, the best way to fall… is up. There will come a day when we will fall and won’t be able to get up again. Until then, we have choices—stay down… or spread our bruised, battered wings… and fly.

of SCC & South County

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Kitchen Notes Why My January Starts in the Kitchen, Not the Gym

By Chef Alexis Hernandez January is loud in theory and quiet in real life. On paper, it’s all big promises—new journals, strict diets, packed gyms, “new year, new me.” In my actual house, January looks more like this: the tree is back in its box, there’s a stray ornament on the counter, and I’m sure I’ll still be finding random glitter on the rug in April.

This is the month when everyone decides one resolution will rewrite their whole life. Dry January, ten thousand steps a day, no carbs ever again. As a chef, I don’t trust big declarations like that— in the kitchen or anywhere else.

I’ve learned that small moves change more than grand gestures. A plane can change its course by just one degree and end up in a completely different place. Kitchens—and lives— work the same way.

A Quieter Kind of Reset My own reset starts early in the month, usually around January second or third. The house is quieter. I turn on Ella Fitzgerald or Dinah Washington and sit with an Americano before I look at my phone. I do that most mornings all year, but it feels different in January—like proof that if I can

hold onto this small ritual, the day stands a better chance.

Once the coffee is poured, I walk through the kitchen and deal with what December left behind. Drawers that turned into junk zones get emptied and reset. The fridge gets cleaned out and the spice rack gets a reckoning—what needs to be refilled, and what needs to be thrown out because it hasn’t seen a pot or pan in two years.

Giving the Kitchen (and Myself) a Fresh Start Then comes the deep clean: the oven that worked overtime, the stovetop, the hood, even the coffee maker. None of it is glamorous. No one is going to clap for a scrubbed roasting pan. But giving the kitchen a fresh start makes it feel like I have one, too. It’s not about punishing myself for December. It’s about saying, You’ve worked hard— let’s give you room to breathe.

There are treats in my January, but they’re quieter. In December, I say yes to lemon bars and cookies and all the things that feel like celebration. By the time the new year rolls around, I’m ready for smaller luxuries. One of mine is biscotti from Mazzaro’s Market

in St. Petersburg. I buy a handful and let them sit on the counter.

As they dry, they get crunchier— the perfect thing to dip into that morning coffee while Ella sings in the background. Nothing dramatic happens—I’m just standing at my own counter— but I feel cared for. That’s the point.

Why Small Changes Work Better Than Big Resolutions People think change requires a total overhaul: clean slate, new diet, perfect planner, two-hour workouts. In the kitchen, I’ve learned it’s usually the opposite.

The 80/20 idea applies here— twenty percent of your effort gives you eighty percent of your results. You don’t have to cook a month of meals in one weekend.

Maybe you simply learn how to break down a large pork loin so you can portion it, freeze it, and know you’ve got better dinners ahead. Maybe you finally notice that you like tomato-based pastas more than cream sauces.

Outside the kitchen, it works the same way. You don’t have to walk ten miles on January first. Maybe you walk to the end of the street and back. The next week, you add the loop to

the community mailbox. Small, repeatable things—the kind you can actually live with—are what change you, not the giant resolution you announce once and abandon by the fifteenth.

Let January Be Loud Without You That’s why my January starts in the kitchen, not the gym. The kitchen is where I can see the truth about how I live: the crumbs on the counter, the spices I actually reach for, the coffee ritual I rely on to feel like myself. When I make small changes there, I see them, touch them, taste them.

That makes it much more likely I’ll stick with them when life speeds up again.

If this time of year feels overwhelming, skip the giant resolution. Instead, pick one small, kind thing you can do for yourself at home—clean out one drawer, light a candle while you make dinner, or sit with your coffee before the day rushes in.

Let January be loud on the outside if it wants to. You and I can keep it quiet, one small change at a time, right there in the kitchen—and be okay with finding last year’s glitter on the living room rug.

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COMMUNITY 4

January 2026

The News

Comedy Night

Baby Boomers Present Ginger Kelly, Al Ernst, Dan Gierlach Friday, January 23, from 6 to 9 PM Veterans Theater, Kings Point North Clubhouse Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets on sale $15, Veterans Theater Box Office, Kings Point North Clubhouse Lobby. It’s cold outside, but we’re heating things up with an evening of belly laughs, snortgiggles, and good old-fashioned fun! Join us for a night where the only thing contagious is the laughter—and maybe someone’s loud cackle two rows over.

A lineup of three side-splitting comedy acts! Ginger Kelly, Al Ernst, Dan Gierlach BYOB — because wine and punchlines go together beautifully. Light snacks available — fuel for your funny bone.

South Shore Democrats Club

Thursday, January 8 at 1 p.m.

St Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W. Del Webb Blvd.

All like-minded people are welcome. Hear representatives from local, regional, state and national government and organizations speak on issues that affect our lives in Florida. “Politics is all local” At this meeting we will have Isabella Moeller of Food & Water Watch discuss why Floridians’ energy bills are so high and how folks can get involved in pushing for affordable energy solutions that put community need over corporate greed! We will also have Angela Birdsong, President of Hillsborough Democratic Black Caucus speak.

This will be a great time to renew your 2026 membership ($25).

Petitions and help with voter registration and Vote By Mail renewals will be available. VBM registrants vote at 94%. It is a great insurance policy against bad weather or illness. Those without VBM vote under 50%. Info: www.southshoredemocrats.org or “SSCDems.info@gmail. com”.

Our club is continuing the food drive to help families that are in need in our Wimauma community. Please bring your donations to our meeting.

Ride the Train

New York Club

The New York Club will be having a Rock and Roll dinner dance on Saturday, January 17 at 5 p.m. in the Kings Point Veterans Theater.

Music by The Classix Band.Food by Banquet Masters which includes chicken teriyaki, chinese pepper steak, bourbon glazed salmon, vegetable lo mein, salad bar, dessert table. Everyone is welcome, you do not have to be from New York. We have a singles table.

Members $25, guests $28.50. For further information, please contact Frank Gatto at 813-633-8942.

Kindred Spirits

Wednesday, January 7, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point This month we are featuring Nicole with Empath Health. They do so much within our community. This club meets the 1st Wednesday of every month and offers a space for women to connect, share activities, and build friendships. Let the gate know you are attending Kindred Spirits. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Parkinson’s Support Group

Monday, January 19 – 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Theater Room, Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr. Jill Mask is a fitness professional with over 10 years of experience in contributing to Parkinson’s Support groups and will have helpful hints for members! Her dedication to assisting group members in managing PD shines through! Jill is doing a fall prevention and recovery seminar. We can all use this!

Meetings are held on the third Monday of every month and offer information, resources, and encouragement for those living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Meetings start with light exercises followed by group discussion. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice.org or Jill Mask – 612-5542559 and “jmmask59@gmail.com”.

STAR Samaritan

Benefit the SCC Emergency Squad February 13 – RSVP Today Help the SCC Tennis Association support the Emergency Squad. This event is open to the entire community. The SCC Emergency Squad provides Basic Life Support services, wheelchair transportation, blood pressure checks, and more—at no cost!

The Train Ride event begins at the Florida Railroad Museum, where you ride the exhibits! You will enjoy the sights and sounds of Florida railroading as it existed in the 1940s and 1950s. The diesel-powered train takes passengers on excursions using a variety of open-air, open-window, and air-conditioned cars. Next, enjoy a delicious meal with good company while listening and dancing to hits from the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s!

The train will depart Parrish Train Station (12210 83rd Street East, Parrish) at 5 p.m. After an enjoyable 30 minute journey, the train will arrive at Willow Station where all will enjoy a delicious meal

by Sugar Shakers Caterers, museum exhibits, and live music by Acoustic Trends. After a delightful evening, the train will return to the Parrish Train Station by 8 p.m. BYOB. For payment options and to RSVP, please contact Diane Keyes, 407-366-7799 or “dkeyes60@ gmail.com” by January 30.

S-Selfless; T-Trustworthy; A-Accomplished; R-Reliable Meet Frank Santella, The STAR Samaritan for the 3rd quarter of 2025. This Virginia snowbird moved to Sun City Center 14 years ago. Frank volunteers as an in-town driver for the RIDE section of Samaritan. He keeps himself busy getting out on the links at Caloosa several times a week, and also enjoys his workout time at the gym. Frank says he has his eye out for more L to R: President Larry Smith volunteer opportunities. Thanks, presents the STAR Samaritan Award Frank, for being a STAR. If you like to Frank Santella. to drive, we need you for local and out-of-town rides. If you like to tell people where to go, we need dispatchers for our 2 local cars. Or if you like variety, we need receptionists to greet people, book out-of-town ride appointments and provide general information. Call (813) 634-9283 for more information.

Community continued on page 5.

We Welcome Selina J. Lin, M.D.

813-633-3065

Coastal Eye Institute is pleased to welcome Dr. Selina Lin to our Sun City Center office.

Dr. Lin is a Board-Certified Ophthalmologist and Fellowship-Trained Retina Specialist with expertise in:

1515 Sun City Center Plaza CoastalEye.com

• Macular Degeneration • Diabetic Eye Care • Flashes & Floaters • Laser Surgery of the Retina

Dr. Lin is now accepting new patients!

January 2026

The News

5

Craft Beer and Wine Club Fermenting Fanatics

Community continued from page 4.

Sing for CERT Karaoke Party

January 23, from 5 to 8 p.m., Kings Point North Club Banquet Room Karaoke for a cause! Come sing, dance, and party while supporting the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), which trains residents to prepare and respond to emergencies and disasters.

BYOE. Bring your own everything. $5 to enter, care and share raffle, and more. All KP and SCC residents are welcome. All proceeds help support CERT. For more info about CERT visit www.scccert.com

Master Falconer Justin Mathews to Speak at SCC Audubon Clubs

Saturday, January 4 Community Hall, South Pebble Beach Blvd.

By John Perian Master Falconer Justin Matthews will be guest speaker at the Sun City Center Audubon Club’s meeting. The Manatee County native is the owner and conservator of Matthews Wildlife Rescue in Bradenton, Florida. He plans to bring a couple of “assistants” with him to elaborate on his presentation, including a Great Horned Owl, a 7-foot boa constrictor and Miranda, his Florida Alligator.

Mathews will begin his lecture after club members enjoy coffee, tea and pastries at a pre-meeting social at 9:15 a.m. A brief discussion of club business will precede his presentation, beginning about 10:30 a.m.

If you would like to donate to his rescue center, book an educational event or have nuisance wildlife problems, he can be contacted at 941-822-3272.

Low Vision Support Group

Friday, January 9, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point Dr. Petito is an internationally known author and lecturer in various topics relating to ocular care. Dr. Petito has published several books and numerous articles in national publications and still serves in editorial positions. He has been in practice in St Petersburg for 30plus years. In his private practice, Dr. Petito specializes not only in Low Vision but also in “hard to fit” contact lens patients.

Low vision cannot be cured, but treatment can help affected individuals manage the condition. The knowledgeable optometrist at our office in St. Petersburg, FL, develops low vision care plans based on each patient’s needs. Low vision care focuses on ways to help patients preserve and maximize their remaining vision and can involve the use of various assistive devices, such as eyeglasses, bifocals, and magnifying lenses, as well as closed-circuit television systems The Low Vision Support Group meets on the second Friday of each month to provide information, resources, and encouragement for the low vision and blind community. Questions, Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Thursday, January 8, at 1:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point North Clubhouse Okay new year, new tastes! Bring something new to you! The club meets on the second Thursday of each month to share tastings, learn about the fermenting process, and enjoy field trips to local establishments. For more details, visit “facebook.com/groups/ craftbeerandwineclub”. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason 813492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Wisconsin Club Dessert Extravaganza 3.0

Thursday, January 22 Banquet Room Kings Point North Doors will open at 5 p.m. and dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. Menu will be pizza and salad. Please bring a dessert to share. Bring your own plates, silverware and BYOB. The cost will be $10. For questions contact Diane Lawrence at 813-944-8989. Please mail reservations and payment to Diane Lawence 403 Grand Chateaux, Sun City Center, FL 33573. People wanting to sit together must provide all names and payment in one envelope. Reservations and payment due January 15, 2026 No walk-ins or payment at the door. All are welcome. For more Wisconsin Club information check out our website “suncitywisconsinclub.com.

Samaritan Services

SCC Lapidary Club donated $2000 to Samaritan Services.

Pictured from left to right are Larry Smith (President of Samaritan Services) Jinny Hurley (President of SCC Lapidary Club).

Church Thrift Shop Announces First-Ever Mega Sale

Friday, February 6, and Saturday, February 7, from 9 to 1 p.m.

Divine Jewelry Thrift Shop located at St John Divine Episcopal Church, 1015 E. Del Webb Blvd.in Sun City Center will be emptying all our storage pods so customers can shop never-before seen inventory. Same high-end quality with same thrift shop prices. Jewelry (real & costume), clothing, purses, home decor, small furniture and more. St John’s is a church dedicated to community outreach and caring for God’s children (old and young). Our church is located 1/2 mile behind Publix and we take cash or check only.

Daughters of The American Revolution

The Colonel George Mercer Brooke Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will hold their next regular meeting on Wednesday, January 21st, in the Atrium Building, in Sun City Center. The program will be entitled Remember the Maine. Now haven’t you heard that exclamation? As usual, our meeting will start at 12:30 with a social time for light refreshments. Our business meeting will then begin promptly at 1:00 with that special program led by Mark Barie. Wouldn’t you like to know more about that? Think your ancestor patriot was part of this segment of the Revolutionary War? This is a good time to learn more about our involvements in that war.

All members and their guests are welcome to attend our DAR meetings. Are you interested in learning more about DAR or delving into your Family Tree to search for a Patriot? Come join us and we will help you with your search. For more information email Kay Adkins, Regent, at mujerdragona@yahoo.com.

2,026

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Galaxy Bridge

Congratulations to our December Galaxy Bridge winners, Rose Ciarvale, Marian Crowe, Lorraine Dugas, Mary Ellen Orvis. Diane Swakow and Mary Schroeder.

Our December 4th Galaxy Bridge Luncheon featured a wonderful Christmas meal. There were some very nice table prizes. A great time was had by all of us. Because of our normal luncheon falling on the 1st Thursday of the month which is. on New Year’s Day we won’t meet in January. We will send members an up date through email and the newspaper. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Community continued on page 6.

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January 2026

The News

SCC German American Club 2026 Fasching Dinner-Dance

Community continued from page 5.

1st Annual SCC Men’s Club Golf Scramble

By Jay Sparkman A very successful golf scramble was held by the SCC Men’s Club at Club Renaissance. Golf Tournament Chairman Greg Hatton and committee members did an excellent job putting together the initial event. Proceeds from the tournament will be used by the SCC Men’s Club in various service projects in Sun City Center and Kings Point. Thanks to all who supported the event.

Samaritan Services

The Indo-Americans in Sun City Center & Kings Point donated $1400 to Samaritan Services. Many of the members donated different amounts. Pictured from left to right are Chitre Shobha & Dandekar Shobhana of the Indo-Americans & accepting the check is Samaritan Services president Larry Smith.

For Samaritan Services information call 813-634-9283. For SCC Ride, call 813-633-6111. Visit our website at “sccsam.org”.

Duplicate Bridge Community Service

In keeping with our community involvement of fundraisers for Alzheimer’s Association of Sun City Center, Samaritans, Breakaway Ministries and distributing Meals on Wheels. The Duplicate Bridge Association of Sun City Center added a new community support program by soliciting association members to contribute dry goods or financial support to Inspira Tampa Bay Inc located at 707 West Lake Dr, Wimauma, Fl. Inspira, the giving hand of Southshore Bilingual Therapy, is a local nonprofit organization serving over 320 children with varying exceptionalities and their families. Nearly 75% of these families rely on food assistance programs, and the majority live in Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) households working hard yet struggling to meet basic needs. From left to right Julie Porto and Ronda O’Farrell illustrate the immediate response DBASCC is providing to Inspira pantry.

L to R: Elliott Bart, President, Sun City Center Men’s Club, Don O’Neal, Owner, TravelWorld, Hilda Simmons, TravelWorld Sun City Center, Jim Rottman, Special Events VP, Men’s Club

Over 130 celebrants enjoyed the recent Christmas festivities hosted by the German American Club of SCC. The Club is pleased to announce that its next event, its annual Fasching Dinner Dance will take place on Thursday, February 5, 2026 at the Community Hall.

The entertainment will be provided by the Reinvigorated Fan Favorite Brad Turk and his Northern Sounds. The event will be catered

by Banquet Masters, whose food has outdone itself the first two dances of the season. Tickets for members will be $30, with a cost of $40.00 for non-members.

As always highly anticipated, there will be a costume contest for individuals and couples/groups. The top prize in each category will be $100.

The cutoff date for tickets is Sunday, February 1, 2026. There will be no refunds after that date. Checks made payable to the German American Club of SCC should be mailed to or dropped off at one of the following addresses: Robert Stubing 1214 Peridot Lane, SCC, 973 670-2317 Wolfgang Kesselring 2042 Grantham Greens Drive, SCC, 860 3073342.

The doors will open at 4:30, so bring your dancing shoes!

Center 4Life Learning

Come learn and be entertained. The 2026 Center 4Life Learning Winter Semester begins the week of January 26. Classes are open to all adults in the community and are held on the campus of the United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1971 Haverford Avenue, SCC. The classes provide intellectual stimulation and fellowship with a wide variety of subjects. Class descriptions, instructor bios, class dates and times are listed on the Center 4Life Learning website: lovethelight.org/4lifelearning Art: Beginning Paper Quilling; Advanced Paper Quilling; Make Your Mark – Doodling; Modern Dot Art Discussion: Chautauqua XII; Mid-Century Counterculture; Demographics: You’re More Than A Number; Music of Great Composers Finance: Investment, Estate, and Tax Planning; What Would Happen If You Got Hit By A Bus? Health: End-Of-Life Planning for You and Your Family; Enriching Relationships Through Self-Discovery; Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction; Plant-Powered Living: A Holistic Approach to Vibrant Health History: Film History of Science Fiction Movies; High Altitude Reconnaissance During the Cold War; The Adams Family: A Multigenerational Legacy of Public Service Language: Sign Language; Beginners Conversational Spanish Level I, Level II, Level II Live Theater: Fun With Improv Center4Life Learning also has day trips. Visit website at lovethelight. org/4lifelearning for more information, register on-line for classes and trips or visit the Center 4Life Learning office. The Center 4Life Learning office is open, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Credit card, check, and cash are accepted in the Center office. Sign up today. For more information, call 813-634-8607 or email center4life@sccumc.com.

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SCC Men’s Club Receives Donation From TravelWorld

By Jay Sparkman.

Don Oneal, owner of TravelWorld, made a generous donation to the Sun City Center Men’s Club at the club’s holiday luncheon meeting held in the Sun City Center community hall.

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L to R: SCC Men’s Club President Elliott Bart, Lark Bart, Kathy Schwartz, Jim Schwartz

Men’s Club Luncheon

The Sun City Center Men’s Club monthly member luncheon was a celebration that included a recounting of the club’s 2025 activities and many community projects. Club president Elliott Bart spoke of the undertakings and the results of each. Wives and significant others were honored guests, and all enjoyed the musical entertainment provided by the AmericanAcoustiC group and the tasty buffet luncheon. The SCC Men’s Club is open to members of SCCCA and Kings Point.

Our professionally trained staff will assist you in maintaining your independent lifestyle in the privacy and comfort of your own home.

Meal planning & preparation Bathing & personal hygiene assistance Medication reminders

Transfers & repositioning Escort to appointments Transportation Shopping & errands

CALL 813-634-6617 NR #30211040

Light housework Pet care Companionship & socialization Dementia & alzheimer’s care

FOR YOUR FREE NEEDS ASSESSMENT TODAY!

FAITH &service 8

January 2026

The News

Painting & Pinot at Beth Israel Sisterhood Meeting

Beth Israel Sisterhood will present Painting and Pinot on January 6th, at 1 p.m. in Beth Israel’s Social Hall, 1115 Del Webb Blvd, East. Artist and teacher, Lynn Sternberg. will instruct everyone on creating a work of art. Wine will be served to encourage the creative spirit. For information on this fun event, or to join Sisterhood, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.

Joining Sisterhood is a great way to meet other women and share fun times while watching, and participating in, interesting programs. Future Sisterhood programs include “Readers’ Theater,” “Suffragists”, Women’s Passover Luncheon, and Lunch/Installation of Officers with entertainment by the Showtimers. For information about Painting and Pinot, or to join Sisterhood, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.

Women’s Club of Valencia Lakes Donates $5,000 For Food!

Beth Israel president Ricki Bauman & Men’s Club president Stephen Tabin lead everyone in prayers to light outside menorah.

Sisters Faye Nepon & Cyd Charrow entertained everyone with an original song & dance about latkes frying in the pan to the tune of I Love Rock n’ Roll Music.

“Linda Benson stopped into the Pantry several times in recent weeks, to give us checks totaling $5,000 from the Women’s Club of Valencia Lakes,” said Tom Bullaro, director of Our Lady’s Pantry.

“Our club also collected 500 pounds of food for our families — and more is coming,” said Benson.

“We cannot thank the Women’s Club enough for this donation — as well as their amazing support for many years already,” said Bullaro. “This check will go a long way toward putting nutritious food on the tables of countless men, women, and children who don’t always know where their next meal is coming from. We like to think coming to Pantry on Saturday mornings gives our clients hope and comfort in knowing they are not alone.”

The Men's Club of SCC Offers Peace of Mind!

Faye Nepon, Cyd Charrow, Sandy Yosha, Joan Frankel Ford, Sherry Wilke, Marlene Spiegel, Jeff Bloom & Lisa Rubin-Horton lead everyone in the song.

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Beth Israel president Ricki Bauman & member Ralph Shaw light a Holocaust menorah.

Beth Israel Welcomes Chanukah

On Sunday, December 14th, Beth Israel welcomed Chanukah with a party complete with traditional sufanganot (jelly donuts), latkes (potato pancakes), and Chanukah gelt (gold wrapped chocolate coins). The festivities included menorah lighting, Chanukah bingo with prizes, live entertainment, and a sing-a-long. The fun concluded with lighting the large outdoor menorah on Beth Israel's front lawn.

At Affordable Prices!

Have you ever wondered what would happen if you lived alone and there was an emergency? Or do you like to take your dog for a walk but are concerned about falling and no one being there to assist you? For Greater SCC residents who think they need a medical alert button and don't believe they can afford it, the Men's Club of Sun City Center would like for you to contact our office.

Because the Men's Club is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit club, we offer the Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) at a more competitive rate than what Lifeline charges at the national level. Our pricing is comparable to other systems in the market as well – just compare systems with similar capabilities. Installation and all service calls are completed by Men's Club volunteers at no charge to the Subscriber.

The Men's Club was formed in the early 1960's. In 1991, the Men's Club decided to offer the Lifeline Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) to residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point with no annual contract.

The PERS offering began with the purchase of four units with installation provided by Men's Club volunteers. This offering continues today with multiple systems from which to choose - including one that will work anywhere in the U.S., a dedicated office staff, and over 25 trained Men's Club volunteers who provide personable and knowledgeable service for our Subscribers.

Get prompt caring assistance at the push of a button, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Call the Men’s Club

813-633-7091

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January 2026

The News

From Paperboy to Senior World Athlete

By Gezil Andrews I’m a 75-year-old rookie in the International Realm”, Bob Monahan told me just last week.

Tell me more, I said.

Bob was not allowed to play high school sports because a family rule was “you paid room and board at home when you turned sixteen to help support the large family,” so he worked mostly full time.

However, Bob did break the school record for the long jump during the President Kennedy Youth fitness challenge. It probably was due to having a paper route from age 7 through age 16 in one of the hilliest towns in Connecticut - doing the route six days per week for three miles daily. Whew, are we tired out yet?

After graduating from college with honors and not playing any sports while there, Bob started playing basketball as a first-year coach when he was pressed into duty by an administration that had mostly ready- toretirement teachers. He found salvation from his work life stress

Bob running the courts in the National Championship.

At the end of the basketball games between USA and Australia, each team exchanged small gifts from their country and took a photo together. Team USA wore Westendorf shirts. This farm equipment company out of South Dakota sponsored the USA team though players paid their own travel, food and lodging.

by playing basketball at home – he had built his own half court!

For many years he practiced his sport on this small court shooting a game called, “Around the World.” He would practice bank shots, layups, and other shots from both sides of the basket. He said, “If I missed a shot I would have to start over”!

When Bob was 35, adult basketball was offered in the town where Bob worked, and he was able to officially play ball. Fast forward to today Bob serves as President of the South Shore Basketball Club out of Ruskin, formerly Sun City Center Basketball Club.

Current members are from SCC, Ruskin, Wimauma, Valencia Lakes, and Apollo Beach.

The Club has been successful winning Polk County and State Championships in various age brackets. Bob said, “there is no such thing as maximum age levels,” with many of Bob’s heroes still playing volleyball, pickleball and line dancing in their nineties.

Bob plays as point guard: his job is to get the ball to the hot player.

In the world competition this player tires out the opponents with running. Bob fit in perfectly

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with a team USA mantra of, “Tire out the opponents.”

Bob is a cancer survivor- thyroid cancer to be specific. He is very appreciative -working at eating healthily and exercising to keep his health up. This is a perfect ideology for a man that serves as a role model for so many!

Bob does not run for the sake of running. He purposely runs up to three miles per basketball session. To avoid overuse of muscles in one sport, he mixes in other sports, line dancing and volleyball twice a week, fitness class two to three times per week and maintaining his own yard.

He also maintains a garden plot with Tillers and Toilers.

This year, his team won the 3-on-3 State of Florida basketball championship. He was invited to play full court in the National Championship in May, then to play on team USA in the World Championships, one of 11 members from around the country. The world championship was in Ticino, Switzerland in June with 41 countries and 6,000 players represented. Bob’s team won the silver medal, beating all teams in his bracket!

He also participates in Men’s Madness pickleball play for the skilled players. I’m startled by the fact that Bob said, “I’m average in this group.” Really?

Bob anticipates continuing sports activities for years to

High speed trains in Switzerland used to get to the basketball games in the world championship

Linda Monahan and Bob Monahan after winning the mile race at the Senior Good Life Games just prior to Covid.

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come and has followed his own stretch band routine daily for the last 25 years. He has certainly shown he has the discipline and focus it takes to attain such a goal. Go Bob! Sports do not define Bob Monahan. He is an active traveler, enjoys dinner theaters with the Travel Club as well as visiting museums with family, who reside in Tennessee, Virginia, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. Bob and his wife Linda have been married for more than 53 years, but most interesting is they have known each other since birth and were high school sweethearts.

“You have to expect things of yourself before you can do them,” quoted Michael Jordan.

Sounds like something Bob Monahan would say! Surprisingly, good company to keep – we don’t expect anything less!

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BOOK REVIEW

January 2026

The News

Surviving the Angel of Death

By Andrea L.T. Peterson Eighty-one years ago a threeyear-old girl, her twin sister, her mother, and hundreds of thousands more were pulled from their homes in Berlin, crammed into cattle cars with barely enough room to turn around, and taken on the long journey to Auschwitz in southern Poland where she survived to tell her story. Most of those hundreds of thousands, including her twin sister Hannah, did not.

After shouts “Raus! Raus” [Get out! Get out!] as they were rushed out of the cars, within the chaos, she heard the enthusiastic shout, “Zwillinge! Zwillinge!” [Twins!

Twins!] She did not know at the time that the German word for twins, zwillinge, would ultimately save her life and take that of her identical twin.

More than eight decades later, I was able to attend a presentation by 84-year old Sora Vigorito, the youngest known survivor of Dr. Josef Mengele’s brutal, inhuman experiments in Hitler’s Nazi Germany.

“We were three years old, and all we felt were fear and terror,” Sora Vigorito said of Hannah and herself as they reached the notorious concentration camp known as Auschwitz. The doors to the cattle car they were crammed into with barely enough room to turn around opened. Some people had fallen and didn’t get up. Along with the shouting, “Raus! Raus!,” there were guns and barking dogs everywhere. It was cold and clammy. We were terrified!”

The identical twin girls had first hidden under somebody’s skirt so the big man couldn’t see them, but then some excitedly shouted, “ Zwillinge! Zwillinge!”

The shouting of “Twins! Twins! drew the attention of the camp doctor, later known as The Angel of Death. Dr. Mengele grabbed the one girl by the arm and handed her to his assistant.

Mengele smiled, but even the little girl, just three years old, knew the smile never reached his eyes!

She still remembers the stench—it was beyond words.

They were urinated and defecated on, made to look like animals. Knowing only fear, they reached across their Bubbe’s [grandmother] bosom and held each other’s wrists as she held each in one arm.

“This,” says now 84-year old surviving twin, Sora Vigorito, “This, the entrance to Auschwitz, was the gateway to hell!!” Tears filled their eyes as she and her sister were snatched from their Bubbe’s arms and put in cages.

“We screamed, pleading” but there was no rescue.

Mengele was obsessed with twins. His endless experiments included blood draws, cuts on their legs and samples taken with no anesthetics. Other experiments included cutting the “patient” open and inserting bacteria to see how the body

resisted infection. Experiments were done to determine the why and how of twin births!

The doctor, Vigorito told her audience, “would speak gently; that was confusing to a child because he always returned to torture.

“When my sister died, I clung to her body, refusing to let her go.

When Mengele came to take her from me, I slapped his face.

I mean, slapped! He smashed the fingers of my one hand with a hammer, my soul felt numb!

Eventually I was reunited with my Bubbe. When she held her, Sora says, she “felt safe for the very first time.”

After Hannah died the remaining twins [there were dozens of sets, not just Jewish.

Some were Polish, some Roma, and others] were still in cages we couldn’t get out but Sora had TB so they took her to a hospital. “I believed I didn’t have a soul anymore,” she said.

“I felt nothing, nothing spiritual, no empathy. Mankind,” she believed had condemned her.

“It is in the memory of my sister that I give these talks!

Having fled the Nazis and hidden with just family, including her Bubbe and her twin, she had no idea who of her family had survived. But a few years later, she met her father and when she was about six. She and her father took another ride on a train, but this train had seats and windows. She was assigned the birthday of October 5 so she could get a visa and she went with her father to Canada. She still had no feelings. No empathy, nothing!

A few years later her dad got a job as an engineer, so they relocated to the United States., But still, the most important part of Sora, to her thinking, was a dead soul—emptiness. There were flashbacks; I didn’t know what was real and what wasn’t."

Although they lost their house and all of their possessions to a house fire in Cleveland, she was fortunate to meet the right people along the way as she worked through the long, arduous, and often painful road to recovery, It was about that time she met the Rabbi who would help her transform her life. I couldn’t find a place for my spirituality. “Why?” She asked God. Why would he allow my whole family to be taken.. “I felt guilty for judging God. The rabbi’s presence enveloped me. I felt whole. The numbness began to melt, but the pain remained. I realized my soul was still alive, that recovery was possible.

“But it’s challenging.

I thought of the words to the song ‘hello darkness my old friend... everything planted in my brain still remains’ in those flashbacks. Gradually the past was removed. The memory was transformed!! Even when your spirit feels crushed, there is a path. I had witnessed something

of our Jewish faith arise from the ashes of Auschwitz.

“More recently, I’ve come to realize God responds not with words. I talk to God quietly alone.

I continued [and continue] to survive [and thrive] through God, my soul [heals], slowly.

There’s a lot of questioning and a lot of understanding.

“I’m not vengeful. I have no hate, no feelings of regret. God took them away [her family as well as six million+ others] and the flashbacks go away each time I talk about my experiences. I talked to Hashem [God] before I believed, but usually it was giving him a piece of my mind!

I told him if he gave me a good reason for why it all happened.

I would be OK – but I never got that.”

She recaptured a lost childhood by raising her own kids." I stayed at home till they were at school full-time. I knew what it was to not have a mother. I said that the first time I felt safe was after being liberated when my grandmother put her arms around me. But when I felt really, really, really safe, my husband‘s gonna love this. was when I got married to that man over there.” she said as she pointed to her husband of 57 years.

Asked what she would tell her younger self if she could go

back now and talk to her, she said “God will take care of you!”

Mengele’s study of twins was to advance Hitler’s objective to create a master race. He wanted to study their genes, discover what caused them to split to create twins. But, as we now know—THERE IS NO MASTER RACE! But there is a race that has survived hundreds of years of persecution and that race has thrived! “We are still here,” she says of the Jewish race.

To today’s youth, she says, “question things if something doesn’t make sense, question it! There’s a cause behind everything and the way it happened--reasons for everything!”

I’m not just telling you a story.

This is about the fortitude of the Jewish people we are still here.

So, a final word or two: NEVER FORGET, NEVER AGAIN!!

BOOK RECOMMENDATION MENGELE; Unmasking the “Angel of Death” by David G. Maxwell is just one of dozens of books that examines Mengele’s life and career, the evils that earned him the name The Angel of Death, how and why justice eluded him for so long, as well as the manhunt and capture in South America (after an earlier capture, arrest, and escape by the United States).

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January 2026

ARTS

The News

11

PERFORMING

NOTICE: Each community and club in Sun City Center and Kings Point has specific rules about membership and attendance. Unless specifically stated or posted, most venues, meetings and events hosted on the Community Association campus and in Kings Point require attendees to bring their SCC CA or KP ID or come with a resident member. When in doubt, contact the club in question - not the venue or association - prior to arrival. Thanks.

United Methodist Concerts

1971 Haverford Avenue Tribute to The Carpenters Sinatra and Streisand Tribute Sharon Owens & Robbie Howard Sunday Drive Friday January 9, at 7 p.m.

Friday January 23, at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $25 advance Tickets are $20 advance $30 at the door $25 at the door Neil Diamond Tribute Oak Ridge Boys Tribute Keith Allynn Friday, January 30, at 7 p.m.

Friday January 16, at 7 p.m.

Tickets are $20 advance Tickets are $20 advance $25 at the door $25 at the door Advance tickets available at the Pages of Life Book Store Sun 9:30-12:30 and M-Th-10:00-2:00, Church Office M-Th 8:30-4:00 and online at lovethelight.org/events. For additional information about this and other concerts and recitals, please contact Larry Hirchak, Concert Series Coordinator, at 646-831-4008.

A Musical Extravaganza

Sunday, January 25, from 6 to 8 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1902 S. Pebble Beach Join us for a fun-filled evening of music, dancing, and community spirit at the Campaign Against Human Trafficking Fundraiser. Music will be provided by the Eastern Hillsborough Community Band.

You will enjoy music from easy listening to rock and roll, and jazz.

Bring your friends, your best dance moves, or just your love for music. Doors open at 5:30. The cost is $35. There will be a 50/50 raffle, and free door prize ticket. The event is BYOB and snacks, but dessert will be included. All proceeds benefit the CAHT ongoing program to assist survivors of human trafficking. Let’s make this night unforgettable and support a great cause together. To purchase tickets, scan the QR code here, or contact the event coordinator, Helen, at “dogsrgreat@brighthouse.com” or phone 734-904-5679.

DANCING

Singing in the New Year

January 16, 5 to 8 p.m. • Kings Point North Club Banquet Room Come Sing in the New Year with Kool Karaoke hosted by the Kings Point Music Makers. Enjoy an evening of singing, dancing, and good friends. BYOE - Bring your own everything. free for members, $5 for non-members. All KP and SCC residents are welcome. All proceeds help fund local school music programs. Visit www.kpmusicmakers. org for more information.

South Shore Symphony Orchestra Presents

Valentine’s Day “Love Notes” Concert Under the direction of Dr. June Hammond, the South Shore Symphony Orchestra will present its pre-Valentine’s Day “Love Notes” concert on Sunday, January 25th, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Sun City Center. This romantic concert program will include a variety of well-known and beloved selections. Featured pieces will include Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March,” A Duke Ellington Medley,” and Bizet’s well known “Carmen Suite.” Additionally, the string section will be featured on Mascagni's gorgeous “Intermezzo” from his opera Cavalleria Rusticana. This concert program will include additional pieces including Broadway medleys and movie favorites. All South Shore Symphony Orchestra concerts are designed to provide an enjoyable afternoon of music for all ages.

We hope that you will come and experience the South Shore Symphony Orchestra on Sunday, January, 25th, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1239 West Del Webb Boulevard in Sun City Center. Tickets will be available at the door for $20.

Additionally, the best-value season ticket package is $75 for five flexible-use tickets, which can be used individually or shared in any combination.

By Judy Cesarski, SCCCA Activities Director Happy New Year Everyone! As the New Year 2026 is upon us, we look forward to more wonderful times together. The 20252026 Entertainment Series continues in January. Million Dollar Duet is kicking off the month on Sunday, January 11th at 2 p.m. tickets are $21. This will be followed by the Firefly Band on Friday, January 23rd at 7 p.m., tickets are $21. And to end the month we have the William Clare Entertainment Showcase on Wednesday, January 28th at 2 p.m., tickets are $11.

All shows are held at the Community Hall. 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. All shows are open to the surrounding communities.

Tickets can be purchased Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 10-12 p.m. at the Atrium Kiosk, 945 N. Course Lane. Please remember we only accept cash or checks.

Fred Klett Comedy Show March 12th, 7 p.m., $20: Ticket sales begin on January 5th for CA members, non-members can purchase starting January 12th.

If you have any additional questions, please contact Judy Cesarski, Activities Director at activities@suncitycenter.org or 813-642-2001.

Dancing continued on page 12.

12

January 2026

The News

Dancing continued from page 11.

New Year Celebration Dance

Saturday, January 10, from 7-9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

Celebrate the New Year with dance, a toast, chocolates & perhaps win a bottle of Prosecco! A bottle of non-alcoholic bubbly will be on each table, so you can toast the New Year with your friends & share some chocolates. You might be lucky and win one of the 2 bottles of Prosecco that will be door prizes to continue celebrating the New Year at another time! Of course, you can also BYOB. Crowd pleaser DJ couple Mike & Peg will be playing their great selection of music, so you can dance all of the favorites like foxtrot, waltz, Cha Cha, bolero, hustle, tango, nightclub 2, east/west Coast swing, country 2 step and more, as well as a few fun line dances that everyone seems to enjoy.

SCC Dance Club members attend free, so if you are eligible to join (SCC CA residents, Freedom Plaza, Aston Gardens & Kings Point residents with a current SCC club Access card) and have not done so for 2026, join at the dance for $25 pp. There will be membership forms available at the door (cash or check payable to “SCC Dance Club”). All dance guests pay only $6 pp! Why not dress up to celebrate the New Year --with dressy/casual attire also fine! For questions or additional information, please contact Sue Hicks at “suesgeorge2@gmail.com” or call 813-633-6682.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday January 17, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Open to the Surrounding Community. Get ready to tear up the dance floor to the sounds of Phoenix Five, a well-known band throughout the Tampa Bay area. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, January 12 to 16 & at the door January 17. Tables available for singles. Tickets $10 members, $20 non-members. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets sale will end promptly at 7pm. BYOB and Share the Wealth Raffle.

Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. 2026 Memberships for $35 are available to buy. For ticket information contact Barbara “bgocek1@gmail.com”or Kathy “jkfunnsun@ yahoo.com”.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday January 31, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Get ready to turn up the heat and dance like no one is watching with Flo Raw, a high energy family band. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, January 26 to 30 & at the door January 31. Tables available for singles. Tickets $5 members, $10 non-members. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets sale will end promptly at 7pm. BYOB and Share the Wealth Raffle. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. 2026 Memberships for $35 are available to buy. For ticket information contact Barbara “bgocek1@gmail.com”or Kathy “jkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

Ballet for Seniors

Classes are taught by experienced volunteers who love dance and generously share their talent. Free to SCCA members and Kings Point residents with a KP usage card. Classes are held on Tuesdays 10 to 10:30 AM for Ballet Bare. Exercises designed for strength, toning, balance and posture. 10:45 AM to 12 noon Body Flow dance. Graceful gentle aerobic dance movement to music.

Classes are held in Studio 2. For questions please contact: Misty Taylor, “dancinmist@yahoo.com”, 813-922-8149.

Kings Point Dance Club “Black & White” Dance

Monday, January 19 Kings Point Veterans Theater, 1900 Clubhouse Drive, SCC Doors open 6:30 p.m. Dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. Ballroom music by: Dan Fugazzotto. All KP, SCC, singles and guests are welcome. Dress code, dressy casual, no shorts. BYOB. Members free, guests $5. If you have questions call Eileen 813-296-4038.

Come Dance With Us Club

Celebrating the New Year at our monthly dance to be held on January 11, 2026 at Kings Point Veterans Theater in Kings Point/ Sun City Center, Fl. Music provided by LB and CHLOE with all genres of music especially the 50s & 60s. Dancing from 6:30 -9 p.m. after doors open at 6:00 p.m. Cost $5. BYOB and snacks may be brought in with ice and water provided. Questions??? Call Ken @513-5828449 or Rosemary at 513-258-8238.

Moonglow Dance Club

Thursday, January 22, doors open at 6:30 p.m.

SCC Community Center, 1910 South Pebble Beach Dancing is from 7 until 9 on our beautiful dance floor! Dressy casual, no shorts please. Feel free to wear holiday garb! Dance music will be provided by DJ George, and you’ll love the sounds! Cups, water, napkins and ice are provided, and BYOB is permitted. The dance is open to the public, and no usage card is necessary. Admission is free to club members, and only $6 per person for guests. Info: Michelle at 330-770-2733.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday January 31, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Get ready to turn up the heat and dance like no one is watching with Flo Raw, a high energy family band. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, January 26 to 30 & at the door January 31. Tables available for singles. Tickets $5 members, $10 non-members. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets sale will end promptly at 7pm. BYOB and Share the Wealth Raffle. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. 2026 Memberships for $35 are available to buy. For ticket information contact Barbara “bgocek1@gmail.com”or Kathy “jkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

Line Dance Fund Raiser

Saturday, January 17, from 9 to noon SCC Community Hall, S. Pebble Beach Come one, come all to a line dance fund raiser for the security Patrol sponsored by SOLO Line Dance Club. Enjoy all levels of line dancing. Free will donations will be collected for the Security Patrol.

SCC Line Dance Fun Club

Come join the Line Dance FUN Club for dancing enjoyment and techniques too!

Classes are held in Dance Studio 2 (near Samaritan Services, N. Pebble Beach Blvd) Tuesdays: 2:45-4 pm Absolute Beginner followed by Beginner Thursdays: 2:30-5 pm Beginner followed by Improver/Intermediate Mondays: 2:15-3:30 Practice/learning for Weekend dances - High Beginner+ Attend twice for free. Annual membership dues are $20 or $2 class for nonmembers.

For more information contact Mike Hanson, 408-406-9895 or “linedancefunofscc@gmail.com”.

Dancing continued on page 13.

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south January 2026

County Events Provided by Debbie Caneen

SAT. JAN 3 - CONCERT AT SUN CITY CENTER GAZEBO 1:30 p.m. at the Gazebo on Cherry Hills Dr. starts with a warm-up band the original Sandhill Crewners with Bonnie Mullin and Harold Davis and at 2:00 p.m. will be an all-star performance by Rick’s Garage Band featuring amazing vocalist Ginette Sarault, Harold Davis on harmonica, Russell Pawlowski on drums, Brad Harmois on lead guitar and special guests David Ogelsby and David Lemley. The concert is a fund raiser for Music at the Greens who arranges these concerts and donates proceeds to various worthy not for profits organizations. Meals on Wheels will be the charity for this event.

THU. JAN 8 - CRAFT BEER & WINE CLUB OF SCC “FERMENTING FANATICS” 1:30 p.m., Waterside Room, Kings Point North Clubhouse. Okay new year, new tastes! Bring something new to you! The club meets on the second Thursday of each month to share tastings, learn about the fermenting process, and enjoy field trips to local establishments. For more details, visit facebook.com/ groups/craftbeerandwineclub.

Contact: Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

FRI. JAN 9 - LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP 1:00 - 2:30 p.m., Waterside Room, Kings Point, SCC. Dr. Petito is an internationally known author and lecturer in various topics relating to ocular care. Dr. Petito has published several books and numerous articles in national

The News publications and still serves in editorial positions. He has been in practice in St. Petersburg for 30+ years. In his private practice, Dr. Petito specializes not only in Low Vision but also in “hard to fit” contact lens patients. Low vision cannot be cured, but treatment can help affected individuals manage the condition. The Low Vision Support Group meets on the second Friday of each month to provide information, resources, and encouragement for the low vision and blind community. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

FRI. JAN 9 & SAT. JAN 10 - “A HEAD IN THE GAME!” Pelican Players’ newest Murder Mystery written by John Warbach. 5:00 (Doors open at 4:30 p.m.) at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1239 W. Del Webb Boulevard, Sun City Center. Dinner and dessert are included. This is a BYOB event. Tickets may be purchased at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church Monday Thursday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

TUE. JAN 13, 2026 - TAKE THE AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (please arrive 20 minutes early) Location: Sun City Center Atrium Bldg.- Caper Room, 1009 Pebble Beach Blvd. Sun City Fl. Take the AARP Smart Driver™ course and you may save money on your car insurance! Register: (707) 917-0010. Registration is required.

Course payment by check or money order made out to AARP. Members bring AARP cards.

Everyone can bring lunch.

THU. JAN 15 - PIZZA & A MOVIE NIGHT AT ST. ANDREW PRESBYTERIAN Come early and visit for doors open at 4:30 p.m. Serving will begin at 5:00 p.m. with an assortment of pizzas, homemade cakes, and an assortment of drinks at 1239 Del Webb W Sun City Center, Fl. The movie, which begins at 5:30, will be “ Downtown Abbey: The Grand Finale”, a super movie you don’t want to miss. The $8 tickets can be purchased at the church office Monday through Thursday

13

from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Phone (813) 634-1252 for more information.

THU. JAN 15 - 18, 2026 - SUN CITY CENTER CAMPERS RALLY WINTER QUARTERS RV RESORT 800 Kay Road NE, Bradenton, 26 miles. $85 per night. Looking for new members for our Sun City Center Campers. Reservations, book by Dec 15th. Club House is available for us. Wagon Masters: Carol and Jim Krieger. Featuring: Once a month outings at RV resorts near Sun City Center.

All RV types are welcome, afternoon attitude adjustments with refreshments, corn hole contests, ring toss, tennis, pickle ball, bocce, individuals and couples, pot-luck dinners, group dinner outings, evening card games. Once a year Wagon Masters provides main course dinner and continental breakfast (full expenditure reimbursement). $5.00 dues per member per year.

Upcoming rally sites include Terra Ceia RV Resort, Winter Quarters in Bradenton, and River Vista in Ruskin. Interested, contact: Greg Carmean at 813-294-4517, “gcarmean7@gmail.com”. Visit us on our Facebook “Sun City Center Campers” - 877-392-7608.

MON. JAN 19 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP 1:30 - 3:00 p.m., Theater Room, Sun Towers Retirement Community, 101 Trinity Lakes Dr., SCC. Jill Mask is a fitness professional with over 10 years of experience in contributing to Parkinson’s Support groups and will have helpful hints for members! Her dedication to assisting group

members in managing PD shines through! Jill is doing a fall prevention and recovery seminar. We can all use this!

Meetings are held on the third Monday of every month and offer information, resources, and encouragement for those living with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. Meetings start with light exercises followed by group discussion. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org” or Jill Mask – 612-554-2559 and “jmmask59@gmail.com”.

TUE. JAN 20 - SOUTH BAY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY MEETING Beginning at 10:30 a.m. there is an optional Round Table Discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon at noon.

Following the luncheon at 1:00 p.m. Our meeting will be at the South Hillsborough Elks Lodge 2672, at 1630 S U.S. Hwy 41, Ruskin, Fl. Our guest speaker will be Peggy Jude. Peggy’s presentation will be “Figuring Out a Mystery Match-How Am I Related to This Person?” The cost is $18 which includes the meal and presentation. For reservations and meal choice call Vicki at 360-608-1647.

Make your checks payable to SBGS, and mail to South Bay Genealogical Society, P.O. Box 5202, Sun City Center, Fl. 33571.

Your check must be received in our P.O. Box by Jan 11. Please allow 4-5 days for mail to arrive.

You can follow us on Facebook also. You can also pay a head at the December meeting.

SunTowers Retirement Where Couples Stay Together and Singles Find Friends

Dancing continued from page 12.

Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club

Saturday, January 3, from 7 to 9 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Welcome the New Year Dance, an open to the public fundraiser event, where a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local charities. Music will be provided by Thor Stevens. Dance to your favorites: foxtrot, swing, cha-cha, waltz, country two step, a line dance or two, west coast swing, night club two step, etc. Dress is smart casual attire, NO shorts! Bernice DuBro-Clark will be providing a free Waltz lesson at 6:15. BYOB, ice, water, decaf coffee, napkins and cups provided. Bring your friends or come and make new friends. Yes, there will be a singles table. 2026 Club members are free; everyone else is $6 each. You don’t have to be an SCC Association member to attend. For more info, call Peter Steitz at 608-609-0309 or Bill Dean at (813) 331-3536. See you there!

Also, on Tuesday nights, commencing January 6, the Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club is providing group ballroom dance lessons in the Sun City Center Atrium Studio.

Group Dance Lessons An Open Fundraiser Event. All are welcome to attend. You don’t need to be a CA member.

Tuesday: January 6, 13, 20, 27 (4 weeks) at 4 p.m.– Beginning – Waltz 5 p.m.– Intermediate – Waltz 6 p.m.– Advanced – Silver Waltz 7 p.m.– Begin/Intermediate – 3 Count Hustle Atrium Dance Studio, Central (North) Campus, 1009 North Pebble Beach Blvd. Sun City Center, FL 33573. Info: Bernice DuBro-Clark (dancewithbernice@gmail.com) 813-482-6784. Cost is $34 per person for a four-week course or $9 per class. Bring cash or checks payable to “Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club.”

Enjoy 3 Chef prepared meals daily, weekly housekeeping and more!

Choose from 9 floor plans Starting at only $2283 per month with one time $1700.00 reservation fee

Call for information today!

813-634-3347

101 Trinity Lakes Drive · Sun City Center, FL 33573 www.SunTowersRetirement.com ALF License #4991

14

Adogable Pets Pet Salon & Spa

January 2026

The News To show our support Adogable Pets is offering Law Enforcement & 1st Responders a 15% discount on all Grooming services for your civilian pets.

K-9 Officers Grooming services are 100% on us!

In lieu of our services, Officers are welcome to use our facility to bathe their own police dog !

For an appointment call 813-419-4972

Quality, Convenient & Dependable

Sun City Center’s Premier Grooming Salon & Holistic Pet Supplies Store

4884 Sun City Center Blvd. east end of Publix Plaza

813-419-4972 Mobile Grooming

813-300-7902

Call for an Appointment

www.adogablepets.com

Answers to Puzzles on Pages 18 and 19

Catch The NEWS on the web at www.soco.news

Do you Facebook?

Get “social” in Sun City Center. Share your favorite SCC pictures and news and view pictures from fun SCC events.

“LIKE” the News of Sun City Center Facebook page at “www.facebook.com/NewsofSCC”.

Life is full of the unexpected.

That’s why we’re

ALWAYS OPEN.

5485 N. U.S. Highway 41

When the unexpected happens, you can count on HCA Florida Apollo Beach Emergency to be there for you 24/7.

We are part of the HCA Florida Healthcare family, Florida’s largest ER network. Our board-certified physicians and highly-trained nurses specialize in emergency medicine, diagnosing and treating all emergency conditions, including: injuries, fractures, upper respiratory infections, stomach or abdominal pain, chest pain and stroke.

Scan QR code to learn more about our ER services or go to HCAFloridaHealthcare.com.

This emergency department is part of HCA Florida South Shore Hospital.

This is not an urgent care center. Services and care are billed at hospital emergency rates.

SPORTS January 2026

The News

15

LAWN BOWLING • TENNIS • GOLF • SOFTBALL• PICKLEBALL & MORE! Kings Point West Lawn Bowling

Kings Point held the Australian pairs tournament Saturday, November 22, and the finals played Tuesday, November 25.

Dave Barrett and Marlene Myrick played a close game against Don Bowers and Eddy Grajcar, 9-8 to win the tournament. Kings Point lawn bowling club welcomes new members. Free lessons are available by calling Dave White at 813-538-8821 or Wally Plourde 860-882-2966.

SCC Jack Phillips Memorial Lawn Bowling Tournament

This year, eighteen teams played in the prestigious Jack Phillips Memorial Pairs Tournament.

Held annually in memory of Jack Phillips (1934-2016), this “open” tournament kicks off the winter competitive lawn bowling season.

Jack, and his wife Beverly, were active lawn bowlers, here in Sun City Center and in This year’s tournament winners, for Pennsylvania. In 2015, Jack was the third year in a row, were Cindy recognized nationally for his Higgins and Bob Fladung. many accomplishments and contributions to the sport and was inducted into the Bowls USA Hall of Fame. For more information visit “suncitycenterlbc.com”.

Tuesday League Winners, the team of Rick Abell, Cassandra Furlong and Ken Martucci.

Congratulations to the 2026 Tuesday League Winners!

The Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club is pleased to announce the winners of their annual Tuesday League. After an exciting five-week season that featured spirited competition, the team of Ken Martucci, Cassandra Furlong, and Rick Abell emerged as the 2026 champions. In the final match, they bested the strong team composed of Jan Conley, Mike Perkins, and Marilyn Finn.

League play is only one aspect of lawn bowling. Whether a social bowler or a competitive player, the club is sure to have an activity of interest to you. For more information about the club and lawn bowling, visit www.suncitycenterlbc.com or drop by the club, located behind the library.

State of Florida Senior Basketball Shooting Champion

On December 6, Lee Saucier of Sun City Center and the South Shore Basketball Club out of Ruskin won all three events at the State of Florida Senior championships in Holiday, Florida. In the foul shooting contest he shot 28 of 30 attempts. He followed up with a win in the five spot shooting contest from five different locations on the floor. Finally , in the timed spot shooting event he scored the most points of the contestants in one minute getting his own rebounds for each shot.

He participated in his age bracket of 75. Later in the day his team won the Lee Saucier Senior State 3-on-3 basketball championship.

Basketball Champion

The Sun City Archery Club

“Skill & Luck” shooting competition. Recurve division winners (left to right): 1st place Mike Barkman, 2nd place Qin Yang, 3rd place Mark Erickson. Current Community Association members and Kings Point Activity Card Holders are eligible for free archery lessons and use of club equipment while taking lessons. To schedule your first lesson, call Joe Mealey, club instructor, at 717-497-4639. For questions not related to archery instructions, call Mark Erickson, club president at 810-407-1768.

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Kneeling L to R: Bob Monahan, team captain, Sun City Center; Gary Kaukonen, Kings Point. Rear L to R: Michael Berenbaum, Florida’s East coast; Claude Monce, Tampa; Jim Rogers, Ruskin ,Wayne Dersch, Sun City Center. Not pictured: Lee Saucier, Sun City Center.

State Senior Basketball Champions

For the third year in a row the Southshore Basketball Club won the state championship in the 75 to 80 age bracket. The games were played in the town of Holiday near Tarpon Springs on December 6.

16

January 2026

The News

Kings Point Music Makers

By Paula Lickfeldt

On any Saturday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. you can find the Kings Point Music Makers in the North Clubhouse of Kings Point. This is a group of KP and SCC residents who like to get together to jam one day a week.

The KP Music Makers started with three people who got together to jam. As the word spread, more people joined the group and today 140+ people belong to the club. They meet every Saturday morning. Some like to play an instrument, some like to sing and some just like to enjoy the camaraderie of the group. They do play for outside groups such as HOA parties, driveway parties , birthday parties and many other parties that a group might want to have. All of their proceeds go to their Educational Fund which then is donated to local school’s music funds.

Join the KP Music Makers any Saturday to have a good time listening to live music.

Military News Attention All Military Veterans and Spouses

The next meeting of the Sun City Center American Legion Post 246 will be held on Friday, January 16, at 9:30 a.m. in Room 3, CA Community Hall,1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd., SCC. As usual, coffee and donuts will be available at 9:00 a.m. All veterans, spouses and veteran caregivers are welcome. For more information call Paul Wheat at 813-391-7309 or email at “pawheatjr@aol.com”.

MOWW Supports Community

As the year 2025 comes to an end, Chapter 226 is tremendously proud of its collective accomplishments through its youth development programs, mentorship, leadership, and patriotism.

The Military Order of the World Wars serves our nation and local communities by providing and supporting activities that promote and encourage responsible citizenship, patriotism, youth leadership, military and public service, veteran support, and strong national security. It is “nobler to serve than to be served”!

The photo depicts the recognitions of the top Hillsborough County high school ROTC cadets in 2025 with the MOWW Bronze Patrick Henry Medal being awarded to these outstanding youths, who may be the future leaders in our communities. In first position on the left is Companion Tom Hart, and on the far right is Chapter 226 Commander, Col Dale Vona, US Army Retired, who presented awards to the cadets.

Our Lady’s Pantry Thanks The Tomiak Foundation

“We thank the Mildred and Gladys Tomiak Foundation for this kind gift of $2,500 — as well as all their earlier gifts,” said Tom Bullaro, director. “Mildred and Gladys wanted to make the world a better place, and they certainly have done that, here in Wimauma, by helping us purchase food for the underserved among our neighbors. We know this is a worrisome time for those living paycheck to paycheck and struggling to make ends meet.

“The timing of this gift is especially good, too, not just

being close to the holidays, but because of the government shutdown,” said Bullaro.

Bullaro first heard about the Tomiak Foundation a few years ago when he got a surprise call from Susan Bailyn. With her husband, Dr. Arthur Bailyn, Susan is on the board of the Tomiak Foundation, which is based in New York, but the Bailyns currently live here in Sun City Center. When the sisters passed, Susan and Arthur decided to continue the sisters’ humanitarian work by starting this Foundation.

“Susan first learned about Our Lady’s Pantry through the Nextdoor social media site,” said Bullaro. “She called and asked if we could use any help from their Foundation. I told her our operational costs were huge and that our old, refrigerated truck needed lots of work. The Foundation gave us $10,000 that year. To receive an unexpected gift, specifically to help cover these behind-thescenes-costs that few people even know about, was just amazing. Today’s gift for food, piggybacking on earlier gifts,

now totals a stunning $25,000.

“Mildred and Gladys were wonderful ladies, and we are blessed to be in the position to help people in their names,” said Susan. “We all benefit when we help one another.”

“Susan and Arthur have put a great deal of food on the tables of those who visit us each Saturday,” said Bullaro.

“As always, we thank them for their continued care of the Pantry and this great kindness toward our neighbors,” said Bullaro.

Beth Israel Celebrates 50 years With Lavish Gala

Beth Israel Congregation will celebrate 50 years since its founding with a catered dinner, drinks, dancing, and a silent auction. The versatile and popular Riverside Jukebox

Band will perform everyone’s favorite dance music. The lavish and fun event will take place at Kings Point Veterans Theater on January 31, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m., with doors opening at

Original building before social hall was added.

5:30 p.m. Tickets are $60 per person and include dinner and one drink. Additional drinks can be purchased at the event. The deadline for purchasing tickets to the gala is January 16th.

There will also be an 8 1/2 X 11 inch Anniversary Celebration Souvenir Book with photographs and history of serving Hillsborough South Shore for 50 years. For information about the gala, to purchase a ticket, to purchase an ad in the Celebration Book, to sponsor the event, or to donate to the silent auction, contact Mark Molitch at “galachair@ jcscc.org” or Jeff Ackerman at “treasurer@jcscc.org”.

Beth Israel was founded in 1975,

Front of current building.

Groundbreaking March 27, 1987.

by 13 individuals who met at each other’s homes for Friday night services, They were led

by Rabbi Adolf Feinberg, PhD, Rabbi Adolf a retired army Feinberg, PhD chaplain. Through the years, services were held in various locations, conducted by different spiritual leaders and lay leadership. A permanent building was completed and dedicated on February 26, 1988, with renovations and an addition added since then. Beth Israel is now a thriving and active congregation of 285 members.

January 2026

The News

17

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January 2026

The News SOLUTIONS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 14

January 2026

The News

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