News of Sun City Center March 2026

The News of Sun City Center

Sun City Center Photo Club

The first competition of 2026 was held for the SCC Photo Club on 1/13. Rick Wade was the judge for 75 pictures submitted by the club members.

In the Digital Color category there were three winners of silver awards.

Mike Maxwell won for “Scarlet Symmetry” and “Seeing Eye 2 Eye”, and Bruce Crain won for “Versace”. There were also three winners of bronze

872 5030 8760

Passcode: 884155

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.

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

awards. Bobbie Ray won for “Caracara Watching”, Mike Maxwell won for “Lunch on the Go” , and Madlyn Blom won for “Maid of the Mist”.

In the Digital Creative category, Dale Hughes won a silver for “Mystic Melody” and Barbara Klimczak won a bronze for “Staring into the Abyss”. In the Digital Documentary category, there were two silver award winners.

Joe Scalafani for “Buddies” and Earl Hughes for “ Tied Together”. There were three bronze award winners. Kathy Griffith for “ Going Up to School” and “Styrofoam Again” and Bob Sanchez for “Waiting for a Bite”. There was one silver award winner in the Digital Mono category. Wayne

Jazzmatazz Is Its Own Brand

By Gezil Andrews

People often confuse Jazzmatazz with Jazzercise, but they aren’t relatives — not even stepsisters. Jazzmatazz draws a specific group of members: ladies (that I have experienced) that want unique jazz dance instruction, not specific exercise moves!

Great news — we have our own Jazzmatazz Dance Club here in Sun City Center – They meet in the Atrium Dance room weekly for a class of jazz dance instruction. Classes consist of warmups, floor exercises, improving technique and learning jazz dance routines choreographed to popular and Broadway music. Several practice sessions are available throughout the week on an as-needed basis. The Club performs five or six events each year. It helps not to have two left feet, but we all must begin somewhere.

The SCC Jazzmatazz Dance Club was established in 2001 with the objective of providing members with programs that promote and encourage the learning of jazz dancing. Jazzmatazz’s birth is mixed with jazz and hip hop — an interesting genre for seniors! It is like three chefs in a room—one adds some pepper, another some cayenne, and a bit more garlic. Then they all put it in the oven and see what comes out.” (Courtney Pine, Saxophonist.)

Activities of the Club focus on three

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key areas- 1. To learn jazz dance steps, techniques, and routines through weekly instruction with a choreographer and additional practices, 2. to perform for events and organizations that support local charitable causes, and 3. to enjoy friendship and camaraderie of its members who love to dance. Seems easy, eh? But not so much! This is a dance specialty that takes commitment and a willingness to sweat a bit!

The Club is open to all CA members and qualifying residents of other communities who have the physical ability and skill to execute jazz dance routines safely. There are approximately twelve Club members at any given time. They pay annual dues of $15 and a weekly choreographer fee altogether making this a manageable fiscal expense… Now just add in the physicality and dance moves and you have an amazing opportunity.

The Club meets every Saturday from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. for a jazz dance class taught by the choreographer. Additional practices are available throughout the week. An annual business meeting is held in November or December. Special meetings may be

called. The Club sponsors a beginner jazz class for those who want to explore what the Club has to offer.

I attended a Jazzmatazz class and while I didn’t put on dance shoes and sport a fancy skirt; I saw the dance moves in action! I heard terms I hadn’t heard since my junior high school days (plié! relevé! ball change!) which brought back happy memories of a younger age. Many of the women wear dance shoes, others wear specialized tennis shoes, or flats. However, they all wear dance shoes for the performances. This provides a beautiful uniformity.

When I asked Connie Ray, President of our local Jazzmatazz Club, how the group functioned philanthropically, she indicated the club does not financially support other groups directly but rather supports charitable causes by donating its time and talents to performances at events that donate to groups in need. Recent examples include Dance Extravaganza that donated to SCC Emergency Squad and CARE (Critter Adoption Rescue Effort); World of Dance 2 sponsored by the Sun City Center Community Association to benefit long range planning projects;

and annual performances in the Vesta Follies at Kings Point that benefits groups such as the East Bay High School Sounds of Time Chorus, and Samaritan Services of SCC. A busy endeavor for a group of just 12 members! Records going back show there have been at least 10 Club presidents and the first ever meeting of Jazzmatazz took place on February 21, 2001, with 27 interested dancers in attendance. At that meeting Barbara Longo was elected the first President of Jazzmatazz. What a beautiful beginning upheld by a talented group of ladies today. Impressive! Just for fun: Jazzmatazz rhymes with Alcatraz, celebuz, poem jazz, tequila jazz, and Utah jazz. What words can you think of? Use this as a great mental exercise- it’s cool just like the music and dance moves!

Earl Hughes: Tied Together

Bruce Crain:When Life Gives You Lemons

Photo continued on page 4-CA..

Veterans Photo Shoot For SCCCA Members

March 21, RSVP for Appointment

The next photo shoot for the Veterans Wall of Honor Project as shown in the Atrium will be held on Saturday, March 21, 2026, from 10 a.m. to noon in the Photo Lab located in the multipurpose 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, March 20, 2026 and you will be assigned a specific time.

President’s Report

By Ron Clark, CA President

Wednesday Night Live, a Community-Wide Fundraising event was held on February 11 at the SCC Community Hall. Comedian Mark Riccadonna was hilarious, and the SCC Golden Men’s Review was very entertaining once again. A combined total of 700 people attended the 3PM and 7PM shows with attendees from both the SCC Community Association (CA) and Kings Point (KP). The event raised over $50,000 to be split equally between SCC Emergency Squad, Security Patrol, and Samaritan Services. Major kudos to Renee Bray (Event Chairperson) and Jeff Marshall (Stage Director/Choreographer) for their leadership, extraordinary effort, and vision.

I saw three “takeaways” from this event. First, the volunteer spirit in this community is amazing. It took over 50 volunteers to make this event so successful. There was Emcee Jenny Dean from Channel 10 News and the entertainment cast, props, stagehands, costume, lighting, and sound personnel. In addition, there were volunteers securing gifts for the basket raffle and silent auction. Volunteers performed the Human Slot machine, sold and managed the raffle/chance/ auction activities, and tended the CC’s Grill sweet bar which donated their profit.

Second, the generosity of this community is overwhelming with broad support to help others and to provide funds and support for worthy causes. The final tally of the amount raised has not been completed as of the February 15th article submission deadline, but it will exceed $50,000 as mentioned above. It is impossible to list the over 110 individuals, organizations, and clubs that donated either money, baskets, materials, or services. However, keep watch for future CA Board minutes that will report money donations at “www.suncitycenter.org/residents/ meeting-minutes/2026-approved-meeting-minutes.”

Some notable donations include Men’s Club of SCC ($1,000), Brooks/Benoit Family Fund ($1,000), SCC CA Lapidary Club ($1,200), Tampa Bay Lightning/ Advent Health ($3,000), SCC CA Pickleball Club ($3,700), and the SCC CA Do You Wanna Dance Club ($15,000).

Lastly, this event showed the power of community spirit and working together to achieve a common goal. The attendees, volunteers, and those providing donations were from the CA, KP, and elsewhere in the SCC area. A total of 18 SCC CA clubs provided donations. I mention this as over the last three years the CA Board of Directors has taken action to encourage community unity and improve the financial health of CA clubs. The KP club card annual fee was lowered from $125 to $30. The number of fundraising events that CA clubs could hold with non-CA members included was increased from two per year to twelve. These and other Board actions have made the CA more vibrant, inclusive, and financially successful. Non-CA members coming to campus to spend money and make our activities more successful is a good thing. We should remember that as the Board formulates customer guidelines for the upcoming restaurant in Phase 1B. Please enjoy the great moment in life we have at the CA and as always, be respectful, positive, and kind as we have fun in our senior years.

FunFest is Here

Saturday, March 14, 9 am – 2pm

This event is open to all! Free parking is available at Community Hall at 1910 South Pebble Beach. Aston Gardens is providing free shuttles to the event located at 1009 North Pebble Beach, Sun City Center

Sun City Center Community Association, Inc. SCCCA MEMBERSHIP MEETING

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2026 3:00 PM – COMMUNITY HALL

REFRESHMENTS WILL BE SERVED AT 2:30 PM ALSO, VIA ZOOM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89224571747?pwd =KzpxR8dKxlaivW7LVldP985RRES1F2.1 Meeting ID: 892 2457 1747 Passcode: 413361

200 SCCCA members required for a Quorum CA Membership Cards are required for admittance -AGENDA-

I. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance

II. Approval of Minutes:

October 22, 2025

January 7, 2026

III. Treasurer’s Report

IV. President’s Report

V. Community Manager’s Report

VI. Annual Audit Review Report

VII. Update- Phase 1A & 1B Central Campus Upgrade

VIII. Update- Vendor Selection for 1B Restaurant

IX. General Discussion by Members

X. Adjournment

Monday Movies

Rollins Theater, at 1 p.m.

Movies are normally shown on the second and fourth Monday of each month in the Rollins Theatre. 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. Theatre capacity is limited to 145 attendees per the Hillsborough County Fire Code.

March 9 • Retro Movie Monday Sneakers (1992) 2 hours, 5 min.

Computer expert Martin Bishop heads a team of renegade hackers who are routinely hired to test security systems. When government agents blackmail the ‘sneakers’ into carrying out a covert mission to track down a top-secret black box, Bishop’s team find themselves embroiled in a dangerous operation. They make a stunning discovery; the device has the capability to decode all existing encryption systems around the world.

Starring: Robert Redford, Dan Aykroyd, Ben Kingsley, Mary McDonnell, Sidney Poitier

Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Comedy Rating: PG-13

March 23

Song Sung Blue 2 hours, 12 min. A couple down-on-their-luck musicians prove it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. Their Neil Diamond tribute band (Lightning and Thunder) rises from humble garage to dive bar gigs to unexpected hometown stardom. When tragedy strikes, their love and their passion for music give them strength to overcome hardships, rediscover hope, and inspire all around them. Based on a true story.

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Kate Hudson, Ella Anderson, Hudson Hensley

Genre: Drama, Music Rating: PG-13

Sew’n Sews Contest “Name That Tune”

By Paula Lickfeldt

The Sew’n Sews had a contest. The members had to pick a song with a color as part of the title, choose fabric and make “something” that depicts the song. Two dozen members took the challenge. Some of the song titles chosen were, “Yellow Brick Road”, “Purple Rain”, “Blue Eyes Crying in the Rain,’ “I’m A Bluebird”, “White Christmas”, “Blue Christmas”, “Mellow Yellow”, “Blue Hawaii”, and “Yellow Bird” to name a few.

The entries were judged by the Bunka Arts Club President, Holly Bartholomew and Vice President, Joanne Brennan. Both of these women have a background with quilting, embroidery and Bunka arts.

The winners were; 1st place Betsy McGee with “You Are My Sunshine”, 2nd place and Viewers Choice Carol Selby with “Green Tambourine”, 3rd place Sue Whisnant with “Yellow Brick Road”, Creativity Jan Kummer with “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue?”

The evening started with a salad and dessert dinner and ended with the awarding of prizes. Fun evening to be had by all.

L to R: Carol Selby, Sue Whisnant, Jan Kummer, not pictured Betsy McGee

SCC Board Meeting Recap Table Tennis

By Bob Sanchez

The Sun City Center Board of Directors held its monthly meeting in the Rollins Theater on February 11, 2026. President Ron Clark’s full report appears separately in this issue.

Corporate Secretary Carrie Blaylock reported donations totaling $1,315, all to the Future Facilities Fund, and $30,377 for Wednesday Night Live.

Treasurer Jim Collins reported the following balances as of January 31:

Capital Fund

February 15 the 2025 stickers are no longer valid. A hardship fund exists, and anyone who cannot pay the dues may pick up a hardship application at the CA office. The fund is supported by donations, not by membership dues. FunFest is scheduled for March 14, and clubs’ table assignments will change because of a new layout. The resident count is 11,248, and total membership is 11,369.

In New Business, the Board approved:

$1,366,930

$5,033,292 including Phase 1A commitment

Uncommitted

$3,666,362

Replacement Fund

Operations Fund

Renovation Fund

$1,081,993

$3,329,508

$47,585

There were 33 home transfers in January adding $99,000 to the Capital Fund.

Community Manager Lyn Reitz reported that the Applied Arts building construction is proceeding on schedule and on budget. Presidents of the crafts clubs will tour the project again in February. Unpaid dues are now considered overdue, and as of

• Policy amendment regarding handling of charitable donations in compliance with the Community Association’s mission and 501(3)(c) requirements.

• Dissolution of the Friday Deck and a Half Pinochle Club

• New African-American Education Club

• Merger of the Solo Line Dancers Club with the Sun City Center Line Dancers Club, with the name Sun City Center Line Dancers Club

• Julie Chappel as chair of the Public Relations Communications Committee.

By Mike Lee

The Sun City Center Table Tennis Club was well represented recently at the Gulf Coast Games for Life Seniors, which was held at the Englewood Sports Complex in Englewood. Medalists qualified for the state championship, which will be held in December.

75-79. Silver medal winners included David Lemley and Dave Reed in men’s doubles 70-74, Joe Petrick and Barry Chernock in men’s doubles 75-79, Barry Chernock in men’s singles 75-79, and Dave Reed in men’s singles 80-84.

By Paula Lickfeldt

The SCC Lawn Bowling Club has 164 members who each pay $135 per year to belong to the club. The LBC shares maintenance expenses for the greens with the CA.

If you would be interested in learning to bowl, there are free classes the first of each month. After you have taken the classes, you are invited to bowl for free for one month. The club has bowls that can be rented for 25 cents. Usually when players decide to join the club they want their own set of bowls.

Because the club at SCC has three well-maintained greens, many regional tournaments are held here. The club often hosts national tournaments as The Lawn Bowling Nationals were held here in 2023. Along with serious bowling, the club has started night bowling which is more low key and just for having fun. This year four of the long time board members are stepping down and have procured other members to take their place.

Garry Higgins has been Director of

Operations for 11 years. He moved to Sun City Center because of the Lawn Bowling Club and the wonderful greens.

Dave Conley has been a director and Vice President for six years. He and his wife came from Kentucky in 2013. They rented a home in Kings Point where they lived until 2017 when they moved to SCC. He joined the Lawn Bowling Club in 2018. In December he became the president of Bowls South East Division.

Karen Cooper is a native Floridian. She moved to SCC in 2017 because her mom and dad lived here and she joined the Lawn Bowling Club in 2018. Karen has been the treasurer for the club for six years and she has also been on the board of directors.

Ed Mattia had never ever even heard of lawn bowling until he moved to SCC from Cheyenne, Wyoming in 2020 to be near his brother. Ed has been the president of the club for three years. If you are looking for a new challenge, want to make new friends, enjoy outdoor activities or are looking for some light exercise give lawn bowling a try.

Gold medal winners included Tara Profitt and Barry Chernock in mixed doubles 60-64, Tara Profitt and Yolanda Zapata in women’s doubles 60-64, Yolanda Zapata in women’s singles 75-79, and Joe Petrick in men’s singles

The Table Tennis Club meets in Room 5 of the South Community Center, and welcomes players of all experience and skill levels. The club plays from 8:0012:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 10:00-12:00 on Saturdays, and from 6:00-9:00 on Tuesday evenings. New members are always welcomed!

Family Connections To Sun City Center

By Paula Lickfeldt

Ed and Joe Mattia are brothers who both ended up living in SCC. Ed is the younger of the brothers. He is from Cheyenne, Wyoming. Ed joined the United States Air Force in Providence, RI in 1969. He went to Africa, Turkey and then was stationed in Wyoming in 1971. He retired from the Air Force in 1989. After retiring, Ed worked in helicopter maintenance for a while then he worked for the government and finally he worked for the Skil-Kin company who hired handicapped workers. He was a project manager for the company, on the base in Wyoming. When he retired in 2013, he said this was the best job he had ever had. During this time he coached Jr. High age boys in the Babe Ruth Baseball league for 24 years.

Ed collects movies, VHS, DVD and Blue Ray. He has 2667 different movies in his collection, the very first one, “The Sound of Music” was a gift. His movies date back as far as 1933.

Ed moved to SCC in 2020 to be near his older brother who already lived here.

Joe lived in Sunbury, Ohio. He joined the Air Force in 1965. He was enlisted from 1965 until 1969. When he was discharged in 1969 he moved to Columbus, Ohio to work for the Eaton Companies from which he retired in 2001.

Joe and his wife moved to SCC because his wife had been here and she really

liked all of the activities that were available.

While Joe and his twin brother were youngsters, they shared a paper route. One boy went one way and the other boy went the other way. They saved all of the coins that they got from their customers and they used that money to buy their first car, a Ford Mustang, Joe lost his twin brother in1995. When Joe and his twin gave up the paper route their brother Ed took it over.

Joe has a son and two granddaughters who live in Florida, another son lives in Ohio. He recently had his first great grandchild. In his spare time, Joe likes to lift weights and garden.

Both Ed and Joe are avid lawn bowlers. Neither of them knew anything about the sport until they moved to SCC. They play a card game called baseball two days a week and they go to dinner together every Thursday. Both Ed and Joe are very happy living in SCC.

Model Railroad Club is Ready For FunFest

By John Stephens, SCC Model Railroad Club Secretary

It has been a year in the making, but the Sun City Center Model Railroad Club has completed its raffle layout which will be given away to a lucky winner during FunFest on March 14, 2026. The Club members have created a beautiful N-scale train layout representing a page out of time in the old American West. The scenery is spectacular and includes jagged rock formations, a dry gulch creek bed, a native American village, multiple cacti, and even tumbleweeds. From the adobe style church at the beginning of the street you can view all the town’s buildings to include the city

jail complete with gallows, the cattle corral where steers are being loaded for market, the Hotel, the Saloon, and finally Boot Hill Cemetery at the far end. Scattered throughout the scene are miniature horses, cows, and cowpokes to complete the feeling of the late 1800’s western frontier. And yes—there is a train that encircles the entire scene, traversing the layout, with the ability to switch tracks and move cars in and out of the town’s terminal.

The setup includes everything needed to run the railroad, including the train itself and the power pack to control the train. It is completely turned key, and will fit under a bed for storage.

You can own this museum quality creation by buying one or more raffle

tickets from our Club members. The prices are: $1 for one ticket, $5 for seven tickets, and $10 for fifteen tickets. The drawing will occur during the latter part of Fun Fest, and the winner will be notified by phone.

FunFest is a great opportunity to visit the Club’s facility. The members will be running trains and showing off the detailed layouts for all visitors. There will be interesting exhibits in two scales: HO which is scaled at 87 to 1, and N scale which is a tiny 160 to 1. For interested model railroaders, there will be items for sale and lots of railroad related conversation.

Make sure that the Sun City Center Model Railroad Club is on your FunFest agenda!

Front: Tara Profitt, Back L to R: Yolanda Zapata, Dave Reed, David Lemley, Barry Chernock, and Joe Petrick

L to R: Ed Mattia, and Joe Mattia

L to R: Dave Conley, Ed Mattia, Karen Cooper, Garry Higgins

Lawn Bowling Club Gets New Board Members

Gone Stampin’ Attends Stampfest

The ladies of Gone Stampin’ attended this year’s Stampfest in Clearwater, FL on Saturday Feb 7. Several of the stamp supply companies gather to show the latest products for card creations and scrapbooking and some of the newer techniques for card making. Here we were able to try and purchase the products we “had” to have. Come see us at FunFest on March 14. Our unique handmade cards will be for sale at $2 each (includes envelope). You don’t want to miss this event!

CLUBS

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.

Swim Dancers of SCC

The Sun City Swim Dancers performed to a packed house in the Atrium lap pool on Sunday, February 1. Despite the cold outside, the water was warm inside the pool for the swimmers, and guests were cozy thanks to the heaters inside the lap pool room. The team really enjoyed learning the routines and performing for our residents and visitors. The audience showed their appreciation with loud applause, hoots and hollers! And as usual, our male Swim Dandies’ performance made us laugh and giggle.

Wisconsin Club Go Green Party

Wednesday, March 11, doors will open at 5 p.m. Atrium, Florida Room; 945 N. Course Lane

Dinner is served at 5:30. Buffet catered by Banquet Masters. All tableware, ice, water, coffee, napkins provided. BYOB. Cyndi Burger will provide entertainment. The cost is $15 per person. All are welcome. Reservations and payment must be mailed by March 4. No walk-ins or payment will be accepted at the door. Those wishing to sit together must include all names and payment in one envelope. Reservations and checks should be mailed to Diane Lawrence, 403 Grand Chateaux, Sun City Center, FL 33573. For more information, contact Diane Lawrence at 813-944-8989. Additional Wisconsin Club information is available at “suncitywisconsinclub.com”.

DBA of SCC 2026 Board of Directors

On 17 January 2026 the Duplicate Bridge Association of Sun City Center installed the 2026 Board of Directors. The new board added Susan Angelo and Carole Newman, two first-time members to the Board. By acclamation the Board elected officers and directors’ assignment as indicated in the graphics.

SCC Art Show Results

The Art Club of Sun City Center presented its 57th Annual Art Show, “Creative Palettes,” on January 30–31, showcasing more than 100 works across six artistic categories and four skill levels.

Judge Michael Parker awarded Best of Show to “Peonies and Berries” by Irina Davis, who will present a larger collection of her work in April at the Art Club Gallery, 945 Cherry Hill Drive. The People’s Choice Award went to Gloria Rice for her landscape “Daybreak in the Everglades.”

A total of 48 ribbons were awarded, recognizing artists from beginner through master levels. First-place honors included: Acrylics: Beth Shannon, Denise Madrid, Liz Link, Margaret Riley

Graphic Arts: Rene Thomson, Scott Moen

Oils: Andi Fish, Sandy Brawner, Marion Giblin Collage: Gloria Rice, Jill Scott, Bruce Fallender

Water Media: Deb Bartlett, Gloria Rice, Carol Husinka, Lynda Aquillo

Pastels: Marie Willis, Sharon Jolly, Ken Fallender, Yoshi Koseki

Winning art will be featured in the Art Club Gallery during March.

Our club will also be performing during FunFest, Saturday, March 14. We will have two shows, one at 11 a.m. and one at 1 p.m. Please join us in the Outside pool (North Campus) for new songs and routines.

The Swim Dancers Club practices three days a week (Monday and Wednesday evening 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Friday morning 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.) in the North Campus Lap pool. If you are interested in learning more about our club and synchronized swimming, please contact our club president, Barb Rezner at 860841-3282. It’s tons of fun and a great way to exercise without knowing it.

Metaphysical Society

March 4 • ‘Auras Essential’ presented by Alexander Nemo. Learn about Auras, the colors, techniques used, and practical application of this knowledge.

March 11 • ‘I CHING’ presented by Richard Bargdill, PhD. This ancient Chinese spiritual tool will be explained and the personal growth practices it can be used for.

March 18 • ‘ASTROCARTOGRAPHY’ will be presented today by Rose Claire, Medium and Astrologer.

March 25 • ‘THE JOURNEY OF THE FOOL’ Tarot specialist and Author Barry Homan will explain the Tarot card and how it can affect you.

The Metaphysical Society presentation starts at 10 a.m. in the SCCCA Heritage Room, 951 North Course Lane. Membership costs $10 annually. SCCCA residents are permitted one visit before joining. Kings Point residents may join after obtaining an active Club Card at the SCCCA office. Others may attend with approved guest passes obtained at the SCCCA office.

The mission of the Metaphysical Society is to inspire and empower others to explore and discover their highest expression of spiritual self-awareness and universal oneness. Contact the club office at 813 438-6136 for more information.

Computer Club Monthly Meeting

Wednesday March 18, at 6 p.m. • Florida Room

Ron Brown will present “Safer Online Without the Headaches”. Have you ever wondered why websites keep asking for security codes — or what a “passkey” even is? In this informative presentation, Ron Brown will break down Two-Factor Authentication and Passkeys in a way that finally makes sense.

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”.

What to Look for When Buying a Computer • Monday, March 9, from 9 to 11 a.m. Music on Your Devices • Wednesday, March 11, 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Introduction to AI • Wednesday, March 18, 10 to 11:30 a.m. ipad/iPhone for Seniors •Thursday, March 19, from 8:30 a.m. to noon

Pictures – How to Take, Store & Text Them • Friday, March 20, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Beginner Class How to Use a Computer •Tuesday, March 24, Thursday, March 26, Saturday, March 28, from 10 to noon.

Japanese Art of Silk Embroidery

The photo is of art made by Bunka Club member with 1 and 2 ply threads on a canvas with no knots! It is called the art of silk embroidery from Japan. We meet in the arts and crafts building on Cherry Hills drive next to stained glass, Monday thru Thursday 9 a.m. until noon. The needles are the size of a pencil, dues are $10 per year. Beginners and advanced learners are welcome.

Photo continued from page 1.

Adams won for “ The Pawn”.

In the Color Print Category, Bruce Crain won four silver awards for “Halloween”,”In Plane Sight”, “Pour Decisions”, and “When Life Gives You Lemons”. There were 5 bronze awards given. Christina Brittain won for “Golden Arches” and “ “Hidden Beauty”, Sherry Kalczynski won for “

Gliding the Quiet Blue”, Earl Hughes won for “Quiet Passage” and Fran Beeson won for “Tutu Pawsitively Fabulous”.

In the Print Creative category, Fran Beeson won a bronze award for “ Dali Surrealistic Reflection” and Christina Brittain won a bronze award for “Paradise Kisses”.

Best of Show: Irina Davis People’s Choice: Gloria Rice

Rays of Sunshine Brighten 98 Homes

By Bob Sanchez, Photo Credit:

Rays of Sunshine SCC

In the Community Hall on February 12, a group of 50 volunteers made floral bouquets and then delivered them to 98 surprised and delighted widows in Sun City Center, Renaissance, Kings Point, Verona, Aston Gardens North, The Courtyards, Freedom Plaza, and Sun Towers.

“This is one of the nicest things that’s been done for me since I moved here alone 10 years ago,” wrote one grateful recipient. “I am speechless and my heart feels so much love.”

SCC resident Kathleen Zegras, inspired by her sister’s volunteerism in North Carolina, started the Rays of Sunshine SCC last April. “Our mission is to show caring for widows in the community by gifting them with Valentine’s Day flowers,” she wrote. “We acknowledge the absence of one’s spouse may especially be felt during an occasion that was once a source of joy.”

The 13 committee members compiled a list of widows they

knew about and established a process to receive “nominations” from the community for this annual event.

Rays of Sunshine SCC is registered with the IRS and State of FL and is approved as a notfor-profit 501(c)(3) organization. They began fund-raising efforts last July. They applied for grants and received generous donations from The Mildred & Gladys Tomiak Foundation and The Mabel & Ellsworth Simmons

Charitable Foundation. They also received significant contributions from family, friends and some local merchants.

The floral arrangement box included a gift bag with a Stanley Tumbler and Cheryl Cookies donated by each company, and a jeweled pen and glass sun catcher created by friends here in SCC.

Rays of Sunshine received many ‘Thank You’ emails, said Zegras. Typical comments: “What a

pleasant surprise that anyone would remember me. You are all angels.” “My doorbell rang, and I opened the door to two lovely people grinning ear-toear because they were surprising me with a lovely and thoughtful gift for Valentine’s Day. Thanks so much. You certainly made my weekend!” “Absolutely made my day” “someone caring…so much love.”

For more information about this annual event, email “RaysofSunSCC@gmail.com”. Please mail donations to:

Adventure, Pirates, and Magic all at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival

Three Immersive Experiences Debut This Season in Dade City

The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns this season with an expanded lineup of immersive attractions designed to bring even more adventure, energy, and imagination to guests of all ages. In addition to fan favorite acts like the joust, aerial silks, the Courting Jesters, Knightwings, and Ichabod—this season introduces three all-new and enhanced experiences that add action, creativity, and swashbuckling fun to the festival village.

Knights Ninja Challenge

— Bigger, Bolder, Harder Blending medieval valor with modern agility, the Knights Ninja Challenge invites guests to test their strength, speed, and balance on a free high-energy obstacle course. Participants will dash, duck, and climb their way through a series of physical challenges built for both friendly competition and spectator excitement. Whether racing the course or cheering from the sidelines, festivalgoers can experience a fast-paced attraction that brings a new level of action to the grounds.

Buccaneer Bay — All New

A lively pirate-themed port arrives at the festival, offering a dedicated space for music, free crafts, and seaside revelry. Buccaneer Bay features a themed pirate bar, a performance stage filled with entertainment throughout the day, and hands-on activities for younger adventurers, including a spyglass craft station. As the season progresses, additional family-friendly elements and treats will continue to expand this bustling coastal hideaway.

Wicked Wand Workshop — Expanded Experience

Returning by popular demand, the Wicked Wand Workshop grows larger and more immersive

in 2026. Guests can once again design and decorate their own free custom wand using colorful paints, glittering accents, and whimsical charms. The beloved Wand Testing Ceremony returns, giving each creator a playful magical reveal. With expanded space and enhanced décor, this fan-favorite attraction offers even more room for imagination and creativity. Together, these additions make 2026 one of the most dynamic seasons yet for the Bay Area Renaissance Festival. From obstacle-course heroics to pirate adventures and handson magical crafting, guests will discover new reasons to explore the village and create lasting

memories.

Now celebrating its 48th year, the Bay Area Renaissance Festival is a long-standing seasonal tradition in Dade City, Fla., attracting thousands of visitors each weekend. The festival features live performances, artisan vendors, themed weekends, combat jousting, and interactive historical experiences for guests of all ages.

The festival runs February 14 through March 29, 2026, open weekends from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., rain or shine. Discounted tickets are available at participating Circle K locations, and coupons can be found at participating Papa John’s locations. For more information, visit www. bayarearenfest.com or follow @ bayarearenfest on social media. All images News file photos

The Editor’s Corner

Who Will Carry It Forward?

John Bowker was well-respected for his knowledge of SCC community history. Here he is in 2018, before delivering an entertaining history presentation.

By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County

John Bowker passed away on February 15, 2026. Sad news— for his wife Linda, who has been with him for a lifetime, for his children, and for everyone in the Sun City Center community. Named the official CA Historian in 2004, few people knew more about the founding and development of SCC. And anyone who knew John could make a very good argument that nobody carried the torch for Sun City Center longer or better. In his community history presentations, John called SCC “the experiment we live in.” He absolutely embodied the idea of a thriving community led by and dependent on volunteers. John served on the SCC Archive Committee and co-authored two books on the history of SCC, including the popular “Sixty Years in Sun City.” Not only an expert on SCC’s history, John was also an ambassador of enjoying everything this community has to offer. He was instrumental in bringing the Visitor Center to life, volunteered with FunFest for decades, edited the CA Membership Directory for years, and helped organize the annual “Hi, Neighbor!” program and expo for a decade. A fun anecdote here: About “Hi, Neighbor!” — when I joined The News, John made absolutely certain I knew exactly how that title should be written. “Write it as it was said—neighbor to neighbor with warmth and enthusiasm!”

Born in November 1930, John was 95 when he died, and he filled his years with the sort of life that anyone might envy. He met

Linda in high school. The couple hit it off, dated through college, and were married soon after. They stayed at each other’s side through better and worse, raising three children, who gave them six grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren.

Passionate about broadcasting, John worked for RCA, where he was raised to Director of Frequency Management. In 2024, John was recognized as “Who’s Who” of top executives for “achievements and leadership in television broadcasting.” Those achievements included contributing significantly to the development of color television. Everyone who enjoys their TV shows in “exciting full color” owes a debt to John Bowker.

An innovator in radio as well, John built multiple radio stations across the country, and he brought his passion for precise and engaging communication to SCC. He was program host for the Swim Dancer’s annual program, proofed club newsletters, and he and Linda served as reporters here at The News for many years. It was in this latter capacity that I met John and Linda. Did John have questions about the young guy sitting at the head of the table? Yes, he did. Did he challenge me? Always professionally. He was passionate, he was precise— and he never apologized for either. I appreciated John for that, and for his indefatigable love for and commitment to this community. Several times, we tried to honor John for his contributions to The News, while he was with the team and after he left to pursue other passions— but every time we asked, John politely declined. He never wanted public recognition. He did what he did because he cared, and because, when he chose to do something, he did it with curiosity and excellence. Before arriving in SCC, John and his beloved bride, Linda, traveled extensively in their RV. They saw the country, chose to retire here, and set about helping this community live up to all the promises contained

The Men’s Club recognized John and Linda Bowker for their contributions to the community in 2020.

in Del Webb’s vision—and then some. He was chairman of the SCC RV Club and a driver for SCC Ride—where Linda served as a dispatcher. John envisioned SCC as a community where everyone who could did what they could, where people explored their passions and invested their talents in making their community a beautiful and interesting place to call home— and he expected those efforts to be captured as a roadmap for those who came after to take up the baton and keep up the good work.

That’s what I thought about

John and Linda Bowker

when I heard about John’s passing. Not just about all the good things he and Linda have done to define and capture the heart of this community— but I wondered who would take up John’s mantle and carry Greater Sun City Center forward for the next 60 years... and beyond. Maybe it will be someone reading this. I hope you are inspired to live as John did—to invest your talent, redeem the time, and leave every place you went better for your presence.

of SCC & South County

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Carrier Advertising 813.938.8721 stewart@soco.news

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Contributors: Frank Kepley, Garry Higgins, Bob Monahan, Peggy Burgess, Joanne Baskinger, Debbie Caneen, John Lampkin, Cathy Meyerhoff, Judy Cesarski and Ron Clark. (CA President).

John representing the History Society at “Hi, Neighbor!” in 2016.

R to L: John Bowker, Bob Lochte, and Linda Bowker at a book signing for “Sixty Years in Sun City.

By Chef Alexis Hernandez

In southern Florida, strawberry season shows up early. Late January, I started seeing cartons stacked up at Detwiler’s. February, they’re everywhere. I still wait.

I can wait.

I keep a few small rituals that mark time better than a calendar. This is one of them— right here, now. By March, the weather is warmer, the cold snaps back off, and the berries finally taste right. One bite and you know. No sugar. No cream. Nothing extra. March is when I stop admiring strawberries and start doing something with them.

The rows at UF

For the past two years, my friend Chris has invited me to go picking at the University of Florida. Chris is a professional photographer, which means he cannot resist making field work entertaining and fun.

He’ll bump into me between the rows and say, “Hi. Do you come here often?” Sometimes he makes it just hard enough for me to pass, like he is guarding the strawberries with his body. We laugh, then we get back to

March Returns, So Do I

work. By the end of the day— your back will tell you the truth.

The field is row after row of bright green leaves sitting on black canvas. People assume strawberries grow in dark dirt. Here, they grow in sandy, loamy Florida soil. It does not look like it should produce anything sweet but it does.

Bring gloves.

The first time I didn’t. My hands were stained pink and sticky for hours. We moved down the rows in rhythm. Look. Lift a leaf. Pick the red ones. Leave the pale ones. Throw away the over-ripe ones. By the time we fill the boxes and baskets, the sun has warmed the berries and the smell hangs on our shirts.

On the drive home, the car smells like strawberries. The real smell. If you eat one still warm from the field, it tastes like what you forgot strawberries could taste like. Subtle sweetness. A tartness. Clean fruit flavor. That is the moment I want to keep intact when I get home.

A small knife, clean cuts At home, I use a paring knife for strawberries. Small blade. Clean cuts—I’m partial to Wüsthof. Strawberries do not

Kitchen Notes

need a big knife. They need care.

In culinary school, strawberries were part of our training too. We were studying jams and canning, plus catering work. Hulling. Slicing. Making fruit look neat on a platter. Our instructor was Chef Dodd, a British pastry chef with a sharp tongue. He used to look at me and ask, “Are you going to make it?”

Then, “Why are you here?”

Sarcastic, yes. Also a strange kind of check-in with his student but I never chose offense.

One day he said, “You know what goes well with strawberries?” He sliced one, cracked black pepper over it, and handed it to me.

I thought it sounded wrong. It tasted right. The pepper didn’t overpower the berry. It made it brighter and the sweetness tasted clean. It gave it an edge without turning it into something else.

I carried that with me. The bowl that returns with the season. When it’s March, I make a bowl the same way. I slice strawberries and let them sit for a couple of hours with good balsamic. Aged if I have

it—Costco if I don’t. If I’m out of balsamic, I use a lemon.

Then black pepper. Tellicherry peppercorns from my old manual grinder. The grind is never perfectly even, and I like it that way. There is something about the uneven texture of food.

In another bowl, I whip heavy cream with powdered sugar or honey, vanilla, and a couple drops of star anise extract.

I spoon the cream over the strawberries and finish with something green. Basil sliced thinly, or thyme leaves pulled from their stem. It looks elegant without being complicated. It stands up at the end of a real dinner.

The thing about rituals is they’re not routines. They return when the season returns. Detwiler’s stacks in late January. Picking with Chris in March. A paring knife on the board. A pepper grinder worn down on one side from fifteen years of use. A bowl on the counter with pink-tinted cream and black specks.

That’s enough to tell me what month it is—no announcement needed. March is back. And so am I.

Call or visit us today.

New York Club St. Patrick’s Day Party

Monday, March 2, at 5 p.m.

Kings Point Veterans Theater

Music by Gene Cannon. Food by Banquet Masters which includes corned beef and cabbage, shepherd’s pie, chicken Florentine, vegetable du jour, oven roasted potatoes, salad bar, dessert table, coffee and tea. BYOB singles table. Paid up members for 2026 will pay $5. Guests are $30. For further information, please call Joan at 516-313-4158.

Craft Beer & Wine Club of SCC

“Fermenting Fanatics”

Thursday, March 12, at 1:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point North Clubhouse

Top of the morn, blarney stone and all things green is what we are celebrating this month. 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”.

Kindred Spirits

Wednesday, March 4, from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point

We had Dr. Shah speak in December about what being a functional MD means, how peptides influence your health and more. We had quite a few members who missed the meeting but do want to hear what she has to say. You asked and we are bringing her back. Come prepared if you have questions about your health. 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”.

South Shore SAR to Host Luncheon

The South Shore Chapter Sons of the American Revolution will host a luncheon on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at The Plaza Club, 3932 Upper Creek Drive, Sun City Center, FL. Social time will begin at 11:30 with luncheon at noon. All members, spouses, and guests are welcome to attend. For reservations, email sarsouthshore@gmail.com or text 813-340-1860.

The program will feature Richard “Dick” Young, West Central Region VP for the Florida Society Sons of the American Revolution (FLSSAR). Dick will review the dedication ceremony of the First Amphibious Assault Memorial held March 14 at Pompano Beach FL and will discuss future SAR activities. A distinguished member of the FLSSAR, Dick has served in leadership roles in the SAR Tampa Chapter, as Alternate National Trustee, and as Vice-Commander of the State Color Guard. Dick received the prestigious SAR Patriot Medal for his services in 2019.

The South Shore Chapter of Sons of the American Revolution (www.sssar.org) -- a patriotic organization of descendants of Revolutionary War Patriots -- welcomes visitors from southeastern Hillsborough and northern Manatee counties.

COMMUNITY

Parkinson’s Support Group

Monday, March 16, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.

Chapel, Sun Towers, 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 the topics discussed at each meeting. Her dedication to assisting group members in managing PD shines through. Jill is teaching “get up off the floor” this month. 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”.

Galaxy Bridge

Congratulations to our February winners of Galaxy Bridge, Lorraine Dugas, Kathy Zuehlke, Marian Crowe. Carol and Helen Lewis. The next Galaxy Bridge Luncheon will be Thursday, March 5, in the Atrium building Caper room beginning at 11am and catered by CC’s Grill. For reservations or cancellations call Diane at 813-361-1348 or Mary Ellen at 813-997-8191. If you leave a voicemail, someone will call you back to confirm. The cancellation deadline is Sunday March .

Eagle Audubon President African Birding Expedition Presentation

The Sun City Center Audubon Club will host Eagle Audubon Society President Steve Burkholder at its monthly club meeting Saturday morning, March 7, in the Florida Room at the Atrium Building. The morning’s presentation will begin about 10:15 a.m., after a brief club meeting and socializing, with coffee, tea, pastries and cookies for everyone.

Burkholder and his wife Jan spent the Spring of 2025 on a two month birding expedition to Kenya and Tanzania, where the couple observed the avian diversity in that part of the world. Steve will share photos and observations of the iconic wildlife, and the unique habitats and behavior of the distinctive birds and other animals in East Africa. The lecture will also describe the myriad of conservation challenges that African wildlife and people face on a daily basis. The interplay between East African birds and mammals will also be addressed during Burkholder’s talk.

Both the Audubon Club and the Eagle Audubon Society embrace avian topics and concerns, as well as other conservation and wildlife topics. The SCC Audubon Club serves the residents of Sun City Center and is part of the local Community Association. The Eagle Audubon Society is an established group with a long history of conservation and wildlife education, and is part of the National Audubon Society. Both groups share a similar mission in the same geographic areas of Kings Point and Sun City Center.

Vesta Follies

March 6 and 7 •

Veterans Theater

Luck of the Irish Bingo

Sunday, March 15, from 2 to 5 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

The Campaign Against Human Trafficking Southshore presents Luck of The Irish Bingo. Doors open at 1:30. The cost is $15 and extra cards are available for purchase. Wear green and you get a free cover all card with purchase of a cover all card. There is a free ticket when you enter for a door prize drawing. You can win $50 per game and $100 for the overall! The event is BYOB. For more information you can contact Helen at “dogsrgreat@brighthouse. com”.

Kings Point Art League Hosts Watercolor Workshop

Kathy Durdin Workshop -

Expressive Watercolor

Saturday, March 14, from 10 to 1 p.m.

Hosted by the Kings Point Art League (KPAL). The workshop will take place in the Art Room (room #21) at the Kings Point Main Clubhouse, 1900 Clubhouse Drive, Sun City Center, Florida, 33573. “kathydurdin.com/classes-and-workshops”. Cost of the workshop is $20 for KPAL members, $25 for non-members. Class size is limited. The deadline to register is Tuesday, March 10. Register in person in the Kings Point Art Room or email “kpalflorida@gmail.com”. Visit the Kings Point Art League website for more information: “kingspointart. weebly.com”.

SCC German American Club Spring Events

The German American Club of Sun City Center is pleased to announce these season ending events: Come enjoy our Kaffeeklatsch in the Main Campus’s Heritage Room on Saturday, March 21, from 2-4 pm. This year we encourage all club members to show off their baking or purchasing skills and bring goodies to share with their fellow Club members. This will be a time to share food and fellowship, as well as any photographs of trips overseas. Coffee, tea and water will be provided. On April 30 from 4:30 to 9:00 p.m. at the Community Hall, Club members will be entertained during our Spring Dinner/Dance by organization favorite Eva Adams. Our buffet will be provided by Banquet Masters of Clearwater. There will be a dance lesson by Bernice duBro as part of the festivities. The registration form will be included in the upcoming newsletter. Or you may contact either Wolfgang Kesselring at 860 806-1014, Bob Stubing at 973 670-2317 or Club president John Pryor at 860 402-2078 for further information.

STAR Samaritan

S-Selfless; T-Trustworthy; A-Accomplished; R-Reliable

Meet Joanne Koncick, The STAR Samaritan for the 4th quarter of 2025. Joanne and husband Joe bought “in this oasis of a place to live” in 2012 while she was still working as a kindergarten teacher in Long Island, and moved permanently in 2017. Joanne is a dispatcher for the in-town car rides. She had been working for the Sun City Center Emergency Squad, knew all the roads, so she makes a great dispatcher.

Joanne loves playing Mahjong with friends and can often be seen out walking with them. Joanne has grown children-her treasuresthat she is very proud of. Elena, Peter, Bruno, and Connie. Thanks, Joanne, for being a STAR. If you like 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 two 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.

This year’s show, Movie Musical Night at the Follies, will bring the best music entertainment from the Big Screen—movies like The Graduate, Summer Stock, Mary Poppins, and a selection of many others. Tickets are on sale now at the Kings Point Box Office, open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be three performances. Friday evening at 7, a Saturday matinee at 1:30, and Saturday evening show at 7. Bleacher and Cabaret seating will be available, so BYOB and enjoy. Ticket prices are $15. Gather your friends and neighbors at a table for 8 and plan for a wonderful evening at the theater.

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 at noon, March 18, in the Atrium Building, in Sun City Center. Our speaker for this meeting will be Anna Corman who is the president and CEO of the Hillsborough Education Foundation. Our focus for donations for this month is the Mary Martha House which provides shelter to women and children who are victims of domestic violence. A complete list of their needs will be shared so our donations will be appropriate and as they have indicated. Another new project is the donation of handmade baby blankets. The Overseas Military Baby Blanket Project matches donors with active-duty new parent support classes. Close to 11,000 have been shipped from stateside. These can be knitted, crocheted or quilted. All members and their guests are welcome to attend our DAR meetings. Are you interested in learning more about DAR and our charity work? Or would you like to delve 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”.

Valencia Lakes West Women’s Club Donates to CAHT

The Valencia Lakes West Women’s Club is dedicated to Campaign Against Human Trafficking’s goal of reducing and ending human trafficking, and we appreciate their ongoing support of our programs.

This year their donation of $1,880 is to support the Next Steps Award Program, which awards graduates of human trafficking recovery programs assistance as they transition to independent living. Assistance could include school expenses, travel costs, help with child care for mothers, or other expenses related to creating their new life. We look forward to continued support of South Shore CAHT and its Next Steps Program grants. A big thank you to the members of Valencia Lake West Women’s Club.

L to R: Kelly Peer, VP of Communications, Sandi Vasel, VP of Programs; Linda Benson, President, Helen DePinto, CAHT; Jane Galantini, Treasurer, and Lisa Manz, VP of Membership.

Pictured (left) President Larry Smith presents the STAR Samaritan Award to Joanne Koncick.

continued from page 5.

Low Vision Support Group

Friday, March 13, from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point

We are having the library back this month. They have tons of low vision resources and are happy to share with our group. 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”.

GFWC SCC Woman’s Club Spring Egg-stravaganza

Fundraiser Sunday, March 22, 2:30 to 4 p.m.

During your childhood, remember the fun and joy of an Easter egg hunt? Are you looking for something fun and unique to do in March? Join the GFWC SCC Woman’s Club for their ‘Spring Eggstravaganza‘ fundraiser event. Stop by the Atrium between 10 and 12 during March on Monday, Wed, and Fridays to purchase your plastic eggs for only $10 each with a cash or check. The more eggs you buy the more chances you have of winning. Limited tickets at the door. Each egg has a hidden message and candy. Bring the egg back to the event as your entrance admission. Visit sponsors, watch entertainment, partake in a ‘scrambled egg’ scavenger hunt and raffles, enjoy fresh fruit and yummy desserts. Prizes galore including a $100 grand prize. Contact Shawna at the SCC Woman’s Club at 302-740-4098 for more fun information.

SCC Republican Club

Tuesday, March 24, at 2 p.m.

St. Andrew Presbyterian, 1239 W. Del Webb

The Sun City Center Republican Club meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month, in Fellowship Hall, at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1239 West Del Webb Blvd., in Sun City Center. Entrance is at the rear of the building, away from the street. Meetings start at 2 p.m. and conclude about 3 p.m.

Social time, with light refreshments, precedes the meeting. We feature a speaker, sometimes two, of interest to local voters. Our goal is to get Republican candidates elected and to get Conservative amendments and referendums passed. We believe in the Constitution, in legal immigration, in lower taxes, in smaller government, in right to life, in two genders, and in no males in female sports. If you want to do what’s right for our country, our state, our county, and our community, please join us. If you have any questions, please contact us at “magictrot@aol.com”.

Fraud Awareness Event

Thursday, March 5

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. We have a great lineup put together for this year’s Fraud Awareness Educational Event. The doors open at 9 and the presentations begin at 10 a.m.. There will be speakers on A.I. Scams, Crypto Currency Scams, Title Fraud, and more. In addition, there will be several vendors and community resources. As always, we will have refreshments and door prizes.

Left Center Right Club

1st and 3rd Saturday every month – 2 to 4 p.m., East Social Room, Kings Point. Join this lively dice game on the first and third Saturday of each month. Play the traditional version or try “LCR Extreme!”—a twist created by Rick Miles. Guests from outside Kings Point should let the gate know they are here for LCR. Snacks are always welcome. Contact: Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@ seniorsinservice.org”.

South Bay Genealogical Society

Tuesday, March 17

Hillsborough Elks Lodge 2672, at 1630 S U.S. Hwy 41, Ruskin, Fl. Beginning at 10:30 a.m. there will be an optional Round Table Discussion, followed by a sit-down luncheon at noon. Following the luncheon at 1 p.m., our guest speaker will be April Min. April’s presentation will be “Forensic Genealogy.” The cost is $18 per person, 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 them 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 March 8. Please allow 4-5 days for the mail to arrive.

Michigan Club Donates to CAHT

On Saturday, January 24, Campaign Against Human Trafficking Outreach Coordinator, Barry Tollenger, attended the Michigan Club of Kings Point event. He presented CAHT’s mission and vision, and an overview of our Safe House goals to over 300 attendees. He thanked them for allowing CAHT to be the benefactor of their donation this month. They presented CAHT with a check for $1,100. Thank you so much to the Michigan Club of Kings Point for their generous contribution. Pictured 4th from left is Michigan Club President Marilyn Enge next to guest speaker Barry Tollenger with other Board members and volunteers.

Rotary and Walmart Food Drive

The SCC Rotary Club recently partnered with Walmart to hold another community food drive for five of our local food pantries. Lead Rotarian, Jim Kelly, had identified the needs from the five pantries and generated a flyer which was handed to shoppers as they entered the Wimauma Walmart store. Twenty Rotarians and family members worked across five shifts to hand out flyers, explain the importance of the activity, and collect donations as shoppers exited the store. Hundreds of generous Walmart shoppers donated over 3000 pounds of food and personal supplies. Additional cash donations were converted to more food items. Our Lady of Guadalupe provided their pantry truck, and Rotary personnel sorted and boxed donations based upon what each of the pantries had requested. At the end of the day 54 boxes were delivered to the five pantries: Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Anne’s Catholic Church, The Lord’s Lighthouse Ministry, Beth-El Ministries, and Calvary Community Cupboard. The SCC Rotary Club meets each Tuesday for a lunch meeting and topical presentation at Freedom Fairways. For more information visit its Facebook page at “facebook.com/RotarySCC” or call Bill (membership) at 813-6343936.

Gala Celebration of National Poetry Month

With the Southshore Poets

To honor National Poetry Month, the Southshore Poets will present a dramatic reading of poetry on Saturday, April 4, at 2 p.m. in the Community Room of the Southshore Regional Library in Ruskin. The program will conclude with refreshments and a “Meet and Greet”. The program offers a mix of humor, inspiration, wisdom and hope expressed by award-winning authors and educators from the Sun City Center area. The event is free of charge and open to the public.

SCC Men’s Club Makes Donations to Patrol and Squad By Jay Sparkman

Meta Glass User Group

Thursday, March 26, 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Waterside Room, Kings Point

We do this group to make sure the users of meta glasses are sharing best practices and uses. Technology can be complicated and we are here to make sure you are getting the most out of our resources. We meet on the 4th Thursday of every month so please add to your calendars! Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason 813492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org”.

Stroke Survivors Group

Tuesday, March 24, 3 to 4 p.m. • Waterside Room, Kings Point

The SCC Men’s Club made donations to two very important organizations in the Sun City Center community at the first membership meeting of the year. The Sun City Center Security Patrol and the Sun City Center Emergency Squad received donations to help in the important missions they have in providing services to the residents of Sun City Center and Kings Point. The SCC Men’s Club is one of the leading service organizations in the Sun City Center community. The club’s major service commitment being the Lifeline Emergency Response System, while other commitments include health related support groups and educational forums related to senior citizen health needs.

South Shore Democrats Club Invites You to Join us!

March 5, at 1 p.m.

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” In March, our speaker is the Executive Director of the ACLU of Florida, Bacardi Jackson. She made history as the first black woman to lead the organization. Most recently, she served as the Deputy Legal Director of the Children’s Rights Practice Group at the Southern Poverty Law Center where she led efforts to dismantle the schoolto-prison pipeline and advocate for equitable access to mental health services and high quality public education.

Our club is also participating in a food drive to help our Wimauma community. Many in the community have lost their jobs and are fearful to drive to the stores or food banks. With the help of a new group that has formed, Friends of Wimauma, the donated items will be brought directly INTO the community. Please bring your donated items (soap, shampoo & conditioner, toothpaste & brushes, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper, paper towels, disinfectant wipes & sprays, detergent, dish soap, trash bags, sponges) to our meeting. Social time and light refreshments before the meeting. Info: www. southshoredemocrats.org or SSCDems.info@gmail.com.

Duplicate Bridge Opponent Robot Players

Duplicate bridge is a form of contract bridge where the same deals (hands) are played by multiple pairs, and scores are compared based on how well each pair performs with the same cards, rather than on luck of the deal. In a duplicate bridge, everyone plays identical hands. This removes most of the luck factor and emphasizes skill in bidding, play, and defense. If you score better than others holding the same cards, you get a good result. Occasionally, the number of pairs playing won’t create a full table. This results in a complex movement of players and a pair may have what is called a “sit-out,” where they do not play several boards while others are playing. The Sun City Center duplicate bridge club has incorporated technology to solve that problem. Club manager Ron Wallace set up 2 computers as a permanent pair. When the human pair comes to the table they each sit in front of the monitor where the hands are displayed and played - the same as one would do if playing bridge online.

We are excited to bring this support group to our local residents. There was one at Kings Point that is no longer in existence, but we are here to fix that! Debra Battistella, Kings Point resident and Occupational therapist will be our facilitator. This group is for stroke survivors and their care partners to share experiences, learn from each other, and receive emotional support while adjusting to life after a stroke. Contact: Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or “mmason@seniorsinservice.org” or Debra Battistella 813-308-9511 or “debrabattistella@creativeconceptsot.com”.

SCC Woman’s Club Celebrates Star Volunteers

Being a good volunteer does not mean just helping out a friend or family. A good volunteer is an organizer and planner, and is skilled at time management and team work.

SCC Woman’s Club recognizes members with these qualities each month, and in December, recognized Valesca LopezBrown. Valesca always greets members with a smile. She helps with the Hospitality Committee, The Angel Tree, and setting up the room for the monthly meetings. Valesca is also responsible for organizing the monthly Birthday Lunches. Outside the club, Valesca volunteers at the Nearly New Shop and other Community Association activities and fundraisers. Shawna Wainright was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for 2025.

Shawna chairs both the Health and Wellness and Fundraising committee. Her two fundraisers in 2025 made over $5000 for the club’s grant committee. The Health and Wellness members visit senior centers to distribute holiday gifts and work throughout the year creating craft projects.

As a member of the Arts and Cultures Committee, Shawna made blankets and pillows for the Campaign Against Human Trafficking organization, and collected Christmas cards for our military overseas. Just recently, Shawna also took over a Program Chair for the remainder of the year. Outside of Woman’s Club, Shawna is active with the Security Patrol and Community Association projects and fundraisers.

Shawna Wainright and Club President Caroline D’Antonio.

Valesca Brown and Caroline D’Antonio.

L to R: Bob Smith, Chief, SCC Security Patrol, Elliott Bart, President, SCC Men’s Club, Ed Whitehead, Deputy Chief, SCC Emergency Squad

The Beauty of the English Language is Inspirational

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

Nicole and Evan Robertson

founded Obvious State, a small, independent press to publish a series of delightful, beautifully illustrated (by husband, Evan) little volumes to share some of the most treasured verses and insights ever put to page. The illustrations grabbed me and I knew I had to have several of them: the first two, “Carpe

Diem” and “Women Writers”— both collected works and poems of the most notable English and American writers. Included is Virginia Woolf, George Eliot, Harriet Jacobs (author of “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl”), Willa Cather, the Brontes, Edna St. Vincent Milay, Louisa May Alcott, William Blake, Oscar Wilde, Walt Whitman, Jack London, Robert Frost, William Wordsworth, and so many others. In addition, words of wisdom from a few international favorites like Kahlil Gibran, Omar

Khayyam, The King James Bible, and Rainer Maria Rilke are also included.

The third, “To Live Deliberately: Where I Lived, and What I Lived For” by the writer who claimed he “went to the woods so I could live deliberately”— Henry David Thoreau. This little volume focuses on passages from Thoreau’s writings that emphasize the author’s “perennial call for simplicity and self-discovery.”

be more relevant, today. As do the words of Thoreau, the words of the ancient poet urge us to embrace “life’s fleeting beauty while we can.”

Both timeless and timely, Thoreau’s words remind us that we need not be entangled in the chaos of the world around us. Nor do we need the woods— when the woods no longer surround us. We need stillness, silence, perhaps a room of one’s own as Virginia Woolf maintained, and the ability to listen to the voice within us often calling us to higher purposes and less selfish objectives.

The Roman poet Horace coined the phrase “Carpe Diem a few years ago—23 BCE! But the truth of his words: “Even while we speak, time flies. Seize the day. Trust not in tomorrow,” could not

Samaritan Services has Served SCC and KP for Over 40 Years

By Paula Lickfeldt

Doris Ragland,

who moved to Sun City Center from Indianapolis, Indiana, with her husband in 1973, recognized a need for rides to and from appointments for people who did not drive. She began driving people in her own car. Nonambulatory people could get rides from the SCC Emergency Squad, but there was nothing for ambulatory people who did not drive. Soon Doris was joined by other people who wanted to help. Samaritan Services was incorporated in 1985 and became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in 1987.

Today Samaritan Services has a fleet of seven new Kia Carnivals and 150+ volunteers. They just purchased the seven vans and plan to budget money so they can replace the vehicles every five years. Two vans are kept for appointments, shopping, banking, visiting friends etc within the boundaries of SCC,

from 301 to the Big Lots, Goodwill shopping center. Call 813-6336111 the day a ride is needed. For anything medical, outside SCC, call 813-634-9283 at least 10 days before the appointment. Samaritan Services will take you wherever you need to go. Well... not to Michigan, but anywhere outside SCC from Bradenton, Brandon, to University of South Florida. Samaritan Services is open from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

All residents from SCC and KP are invited to a celebration of Samaritan Services’ 40+ years of service. Come to an open house having light refreshments on March 28 from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at their building on 1207 N Pebble Beach. All are welcome and all are invited.

Funding for the Samaritan Services comes totally from individual donations, community fundraisers and The Community Foundation of Greater Sun City Center.

Each little collection is smaller than a paperback. Each is beautifully illustrated with carefully selected thoughts, famous quotes, and poets.

The Robertson’s co-founded the Obvious State Press in 2011 to share ageless and universal words of wisdom, to awaken the imagination of the reader, and to inspire and encourage critical thinking.

“We aim,” they say, “to deliver moments of wisdom and beauty through tangible, artful objects (these books as well as frameable prints with assorted inspirational quotes) that spark reflection and joy.” I hope you find that they are successful in achieving their aim.

Check out “www.obviousstate. com” to see all of their selections and to order your own copies. They make great gifts and are also superb as daily readers and reminders of how best to set about each new day.

of Freedom Plaza

By Peggy Burgess

The 160-acre campus of Freedom Plaza is home to a large variety of trees which help to create its lovely landscape. However, its most unique tree is found inside, on the secondfloor mezzanine of the main residential building. This is the Poet-Tree, a highly artistic version of a bulletin board. It grew from a seed planted 15 years ago in a series of classes sponsored by our Graduate School for Seniors and taught by resident John Foster, a published, nationally recognized poet. He sought an appropriate place to display the poetic handiwork of his residentstudents and one of them, Frank Daniels, volunteered his services.

In Freedom Plaza’s wellequipped woodworking shop Daniels, a master woodworker, designed and created the PoetTree, with its distinctive trunk, branches, and leaves. When finished, it was installed in its place, the wall just outside the library. John Foster, its initiator,

assumed the role of Caretaker (which he still executes) and began soliciting “fodder” for the tree, i.e. original poems from the hands of Freedom Plaza residents. He was gratified (and still is) by the quantity— and the quality—of the poems submitted for his posting. Two years ago resident-poet Barbara Oriens undertook the project of adorning the Poet-Tree in seasonal decor.

The Poet-Tree sheds its bounty of poem-blossoms each month, but instantly blooms again with fresh samples of resident poetry. This “foliage” is of wide variety with diverse poetry forms represented. It also exhibits a wide range of poetic expertise, some contributors being published poets with years of experience, others, relative newcomers to poetry writing. Regardless, all who nourish the tree with their works find it edifying to share their efforts with others via the always-inbloom Poet-Tree.

John Foster with the Poet Tree

News

TRAVEL

Tarpon Springs: A City Rich in History

By Marian Stockwell

Another great trip, sponsored by the Center4Life Learning. A comfortable bus ride and then we arrived at the historical city of Tarpon Springs, which is located north of Clearwater. Not only rich with the history of the Greek population, but it is still an active fishing and diving village, where you can even pay to go on a deep-sea diving experience, quite reasonable I might add. It was like visiting Greece, listening to the Greek spoken by the

It is in Tarpon Springs where the world-renown Epiphany is celebrated each January 6th, where a weighted wooden cross is thrown into Spring Bayou and young Orthodox men, between the ages of 16-18 dive in to be the one to find it.

The National Bakery was our first stop, and then lunch at Mama’s, both excellent choices. After lunch we hopped on the St Nicholas boat and learned about how and why the Greeks came to this area starting in 1905, to harvest the plentiful sponge. This was a hands-on experience, where one guest was able to steer the boat, and another donned authentic diving gear from the past.

The Saint Nicholas Greek

Orthodox Cathedral, Carol Bohrer described it as even more beautiful than the flier. The “new” one was built beginning in 1935.

Tarpon Springs is a great immersion in the Greek and sponge diving culture, it is known as “The Sponge Capital of the

World”. It is well worth taking the trip, and walking around all of the shops., watching the movies about how the sponges are harvested, and then perhaps bringing home several sponges, like I did.

I enjoy the trips I have been on, with the Center4Life. Look for upcoming trips and classes at: sccumc.com /4lifelearning.

Saint Nicholas Cathedral, photo of Carol Bohrer

This is a guest in the diving suit of the past.

A Day of Reflection Lenten Retreat

Wednesday, March 11, from 9 to 11 a.m.

Prince of Peace Church in the Conesa Center Sponsored by The Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians. Coffee and donuts will be served. Father McColl of Prince of Peace will be conducting the retreat. His discussion will cover the early church, The Acts of the Apostles , along with reflection, and time for prayer. Please be sure to bring your Bibles. This Lenten retreat promises to be a spiritually enriching experience, so please join us. We are limited to 50 people and pre-registration is required. If you would like to attend please contact Karen at 813 444-3431 by March 4, 2026.

Beth Israel Sisterhood Will Celebrate The Suffragists

Suffragists advocated for women’s right to vote, using peaceful lobbying and constitutional methods, unlike their counterparts in Great Britain, the suffragettes. Beth Israel Sisterhood will explore their fascinating history, and their ultimate success, on March 10 at 1 p.m. in Beth Israel’s Social Hall, 1115 East Del Webb Blvd. Refreshments will be served. For information on this inspiring event, or to join Sisterhood, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.

Historian Zillah Green will tell stories of life for a woman in 19th century America and what really happened during the 76year journey to the vote. In college, Ms. Green created her own Bachelor and Master’s programs, as there were no Women’s Studies then. During her teaching career, she would dress as a 19th century woman and walk into high school classrooms and say, “I am Elizabeth Cady Stanton and I should have been a boy!” and would proceed to explain why. This should be an entertaining and informative presentation!

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 Women’s Passover Luncheon and Lunch/Installation of Officers with entertainment by the Showtimers. For information about this meeting, or to join Sisterhood, contact Donna at “sisterhood@jcscc.org”.

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.

FAITH &service

Seniors and Medications

Older adults often have multiple medical conditions and may take many medicines. While medications are intended to make life healthier, certain problems can arise. On March 26, at 10:30, a pharmacist will discuss the issues older adults may encounter. The presentation will be at Redeemer Lutheran Church , 701 Valley Forge in Sun city Center. A light lunch will follow the presentation. It is free, but registration is required. To register, call the church office at 813- 634-1292 by March 23 and leave your name and phone number.

Fiddler on the Roof Purim Spoof at Beth Israel

Beth Israel’s Never Ready for Prime Time Players presents “Fiddler on the Roof Purimspoof” on March 2 at 7 p.m. in Beth Israel’s sanctuary, 1115 East Del Webb Blvd. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and the public is welcome. Following the show, wine, schnapps (whisky), and hamantashen (pastries) will be served in the social hall. Purim is a festive holiday celebrating the Book of Esther with plays, music, costumes, noisemakers, food and drink. For more information contact Ricki at “President@jcscc.org”.

will be presented in the Kings Point Veterans Theater for three shows in March. The show, which this year has a theme of Music at the Movies, will take place at 7:00 on Friday, March 6, and at 1:30 and 7:00 on Saturday, March 7. Tickets are $15 each, and can be purchased at the ticket office located within the Veterans Theater. If available, tickets will also be sold at the door. Seating will be cabaret style, with tables on the floor. The event is BYOB. Bleacher seating is also available. The show is open to the general public.

Those attending this year’s shows can expect a show filled with music. “The Follies is all music,” according to Diane LeFrancois, director of the show. “It’s live music. They sing. We don’t lip synch; we don’t do any of that stuff.”

There are more than 50 performers in the show. Most live in Kings Point or within the CA, but some come from surrounding areas. There are also some students from East Lake High School Show Choir that perform in the show. The cast has worked very hard to

create an entertaining show, having rehearsed since early in

The Follies has been an annual event since 1982, and was started by the Pelican Players. Since 2013, the show has been produced by Vesta Property Services. Proceeds from the show will go toward providing charitable donations to benefit local community organizations. In the past donations have been made to the Emergency Squad, the Security Patrol, Samaritans, Veterans of Sun City, Hospice and the East Bay High School Music Department, since they have regularly performed in the show.

“Remember that all of these people are your peers,” according to LeFrancois. “They’re your neighbors. They’re not professionals. They’re just people that want to have a good time. I have the men doing a kick line. It’s tough. The ages range from 50 all the way through the 80s. They want to be good at what they’re doing, but they also want to have a good time.”

The show has taken place every year since 1982, with the exception of a two-year hiatus due to the Covid pandemic.

Don’t Miss the 2026 Vesta Follies

PERFORMINGARTS

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.

Opera Tampa is Coming to Beth Israel in SCC

Calling all music lovers! Opera Tampa will be performing several arias and songs in a 90-minute concert on Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m. in Beth Israel’s sanctuary, 1115 Del Webb Blvd, East. This performance is not to be missed! Tickets are currently on sale and may be purchased for $25 each. Checks are payable to Beth Israel and should be mailed to Jo-Ellen Bromberg at 2005 Sifield Greens Way; Sun City Center, FL 33573. The deadline to purchase tickets is March 1 and no tickets will be sold at the door. For additional information contact Jo-Ellen at “moneypenny324@aol.com”.

The following selections may be performed:

“Libiamo” from Verdi’s La Traviata

“Quando men vo” from Puccini’s La Boheme

“O mio Babino caro” from Puccini’s Gianni Schicci

“Toreador’s Song” from Bizet’s Carmen “Habanera” from Bizet’s Carmen

“O sole mio” Neapolitan song

“Flower Duet” from Delibes Lakme

“Bella Figlia” from Verdi’s Rigoletto

“Queen of the Night ” from Mozart’s The Magic Flute “Champagne Trio” from Strauss’ Die Fledermaus

Pirates, Sailors & Lovers

Mariners’

Tales Presented

by the SCC Men’s

Chorus

The Men’s Chorus of SCC invites all sailors, pirates and music lovers to our upcoming spring concerts on Monday. March 23. at 7 p.m. and Thursday, March 26, at 3 p.m., both concerts will be held at SCC United Methodist Church, 1971 Haverford Ave.

This performance, with the powerful unique sound of tenor and bass voices, features timeless masterpieces such as “Pirates of Penzance” and “There is Nothin’ Like a Dame”, balanced with modern classics like “Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” and “Muddy Water”.

Our director is Mr. Jeff Jordan with accompanist Ms. Edie Fox. Several additional instrumentalists will be joining us for special effects.

Tickets can be purchased for $15 on the church website: “sccumc. com/events”, or at the door on the day of the concert.

The Men’s Chorus, one the longest continuous groups in SCC, aims to “educate, enrich and entertain the SCC community” and provide vocal training and performance opportunities for men of all ages. You do not have to be a resident of SCC to participate: all are welcome!

Women’s Chorus

The Women’s Chorus of Sun City Center is preparing for their annual spring concert featuring music from Broadway musicals. The theme is “Broadway Dreams…Great Musicals from 1966 to 2026.” It will include songs from the following shows: Hair, Evita, Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, Rent, Chicago, Wicked, Hairspray, Dear Evan Hansen, Frozen, Hamilton, and the upcoming Broadway musical based on The Greatest Showman.

It promises to be a great evening of Broadway hit songs, directed by Jeff Jordan and accompanied by Teodora Mitze-Circiumaru on piano and Danny Chavez on drums.

Family and friends of The Women’s Chorus are invited to support them by making a donation of $50 to “Adopt a Song.” The donor’s name and a brief dedication will be printed in the program and on a sticker that will be attached to each copy of the song. Songs that may be adopted are: A Million Dreams, And All That Jazz, Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In, Don’t Cry for Me Argentina, I’m Not That Girl, Les Misérables Medley, Let It Go, The Music of the Night, Seasons of Love, You Can’t Stop the Beat, You Will Be Found, and Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story. Donors may contact Paula Spangler Klein at zzzpaula1982@gmail.com.

There will be two performances of the concert, both at The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center at 1971 Haverford Avenue, on Thursday, April 9, at 3:00 PM and Friday, April 10, at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $15 ahead of time at the church office by calling 813-634-2539 or at the door.

South Shore Symphony Orchestra Presents

Under the direction of Dr. June Hammond, the South Shore Symphony Orchestra will present its first concert in March playing “Music from Around the World” Sunday, March 8, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Sun City Center. This concert program will include a variety of well-known and beloved selections highlighting many countries and composers from around the world. Featured pieces will include Beethoven’s famous “Symphony No. 5,” “Selections from The King and I,” Strauss’s beloved “The Blue Danube Waltz”, and a medley from the movie “Pirates of the Caribbean.”

The second South Shore Symphony Orchestra concert in March is “America the Beautiful.” This concert will be held on Sunday, March 29, at 2:30 p.m. at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church. This concert will feature beloved well known patriotic pieces, along with pieces written by American composers. Selections will include “The Stars and Stripes Forever” and a “Star Wars Medley” by the great American composer John Williams. All veterans will be acknowledged during the concert.

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 for our final two concerts of the season on Sunday, March 8, (“Music from Around the World”) and the Sunday March 29 (“America the Beautiful”) concert. Both performances will be held at 2:30pm at St. Andrew Presbyterian Church, 1239 West Del Webb Boulevard in Sun City Center. Tickets will be available at the door for $20.

HEY THERE! Do You Like to Tell Stories or Take Photos?

DANCING

Dance Club and Free Lesson

Be green & celebrate St. Patty’s Day with open-to-public dance and a free lesson. The SCC Dance Club is holding a St. Patty’s Day Dance at the SCC Community Hall (1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.) Saturday, March 14 ,from 7-9 p.m. A free lesson will be held from 6:30-7:00 prior to the dance. Proceeds from the dance will be donated to a local non-profit.

Popular DJs Mike & Peg will be playing all kinds of great music-waltz, foxtrot, cha-cha, east/west coast swing, hustle, nightclub 2, country 2-step and more. Practice what you learned at the lesson. We always include a few fun line dances and requests are taken.

The dance & lesson are open to everyone. Club members attend free with all others paying only $6. Singles come and meet new friends. BYOB to celebrate. Come dressed in green, either dressy or casual. For any questions or additional information, please call Sue Hicks at 813-633-6682 or email her at “suesgeorge2@gmail.com”.

Kings Point Dance Club Presents

“Putting on the Ritz“ Dance to be held Monday March 16, 2026, at the Kings Point Veteran’s Theater, 1900 Clubhouse Drive, Sun City Center, FL 33573. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. Ballroom music by Thor Stevens. All KP, SCC, singles and guests welcome. Dress code, dressy casual, no shorts. BYOB. Members free, Guests $5. If you have questions call Eileen 813-296-4038.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday, March 21, from 6 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Open to Surrounding Communities. Back by popular demand, TC & Sass. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, March 16 to March 20 & at the door March 21. Tables available for singles. Tickets $5 members, $10 nonmembers. Doors open at 5 p.m. Ticket sales will end promptly at 6 p.m. BYOB and Share the Wealth Raffle. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. 2026 Memberships for $35 are available to purchase. For ticket information, contact Barbara “bgocek1@gmail.com” or Kathy “jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

SCC Moonglow Dance Club

Thursday, March 26

SCC Community Hall, 1910 South Pebble Beach Blvd. The dance is a “Gatsby theme” dance, so wear your “Roaring 20’s” attire if you choose! The SCC “Jazzmatazz Club” will perform their “Thoroughly Modern Millie” routine for our enjoyment, and dancing is from 7 until 9 on our beautiful dance floor! There will be a free Merengue lesson at 6:30. Admission is free for club members, and only $6 per person for guests! This is a fundraiser dance, so no club usage card is required. For more information, phone Michelle at 330-770-2733.

Do You Wanna Dance Club

Saturday, March 28, from 7 to 10 p.m.

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach

Open to surrounding communities. Get ready to tear up the dance floor to the sounds of Bynge. Tickets on sale at the Atrium Kiosk from 10 to 12, Monday, Wednesday and Friday, March 16 to March 27 & at the door March 28 . Tables available for singles. Tickets $10 members, $20 non-members. Doors open at 6 p.m. Ticket sales will end promptly at 7 p.m. BYOB and Share the Wealth Raffle. Please bring non-perishable food items for Our Ladies Pantry. 2026 Memberships for $35 are available to purchase. For ticket information contact Barbara “bgocek1@gmail.com” or Kathy “jfkfunnsun@yahoo.com”.

Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club

Saturday, March 7

SCC Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd.

Annual Gala Dinner Dance: This is an open-to-the-public fundraiser event, where a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local charities. The meal is being provided by Banquet Masters. Music will be provided by Mike and Peg. 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. Dressy or smart casual attire. A reservation is required for the dinner portion which starts at 5:30 p.m. Dinner reservations must be mailed or submitted by February 28. No reservation is required if you just want to attend the dance, which runs from 7 to 9 p.m. BYOB. Ice, water, napkins and cups provided. Club members with reservations will pay only $15 for the dinner. The cost to nonmembers is $33 for the dinner and dancing and $6 for dancing only. For more info, call Peter Steitz at “psteitz@aol.com” or 608-609-0309. Tuesday nights, the Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club is providing group ballroom dance lessons in the Sun City Center Atrium Studio. Attendance is limited to SCC CA and Freedom Plaza members and Kings Point CA Access Card Holders. For more information about the dance lessons contact Bernice DuBro-Clark (dancewithbernice@ gmail.com) Cell: 813-482-6784.

A few brave folks have expressed interest in joining our volunteer crew of newshounds, photographers and feature writers. If you’re interested in getting closer look at the community we all love and you enjoy writing or taking photos, I would love to hear from you. Drop me a line at “editor@soco.news” and let me know what you love to write about.

Arts continued from page 11.

March Concerts at United Methodist 1971 Haverford Avenue

Friday, March 6 , at 7 p.m.

DUET: Keith Allynn and Diana Lynn

Branson’s Neil Diamond and Karen Carpenter

She’s a little bit country, he’s a little bit rock and roll, together they “DUET” all. This will certainly be a show you won’t want to miss!! Get your tickets early! Tickets are $20 advance, $25 at the door.

Contact Church for Date Flashback Four 60’s to 80’s Tribute Group

The Flashback Four show is an exciting mix of world class vocals and interactive comedy – featuring the rock-n-roll harmonies through the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s decades. They will be singing the hits of Frankie Valli, The Beach Boys, Bee Gees, Billy Joel and more! Tickets are $20 advance and $25 at the door.

Friday, March 13, at 7 p.m.

Christian artists Jim and Melissa Brady and Michael Booth

Sunday, March 15, at 3 p.m.

String Quartet Invoke

Whether writing a new song, singing in concert, or simply in conversation with a friend, the story of their lives is to share the love and hope of Jesus. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 at the door.

Friday, March 27, at 7 p.m.

Described as “...not anything but everything: Classical, Folk, Bluegrass, Americana and a sound yet to be termed seamlessly merged into a perfect one” (David Srebnik, SiriusXM Classical Producer), Invoke strives to successfully dodge even the most valiant attempts at genre classification. Tickets are $15 advance and $20 at the door.

The Boxers, a Simon and Garfunkel Tribute

Brothers Todd and Greg Pitts have been playing and singing these timeless tunes together since they were kids growing up in the 60’s and 70’s. For years they’ve traveled the country sharing the Simon & Garfunkel concert experience with thrilled audiences nationwide. Tickets are $20 advance and $25 at the door.

Buy tickets at the Pages of Life Book Store Sun 9:30-12:30 and M-Th10:00-2:00, 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.

Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club

Group Dance Lessons

Tuesday: March 3, 10, 17, 24 (4 weeks)

• 4 p.m. – Beginning – Foxtrot

• 5 p.m. – Intermediate – Foxtrot

• 6 p.m. – Advanced – Foxtrot

• 7 p.m. – Begin / Intermediate – Freestyle Rock n’ Roll and Slow Dance

Slow dancing allows for flirty or possibly romantic moments with your partner. Location: Atrium Dance Studio, Central (North) Campus, 1009 North Pebble Beach Blvd. Sun City Center, FL 33573. Contact: Bernice DuBro-Clark (dancewithbernice@gmail.com) Cell: 813-482-6784. Cost: $34 per person for a 4-week course. Or $9 per class. Open only to SCCCA. Members and Kings Point Residents with a $30 Access Card. Bring cash or checks payable to: “Let’s Dance Ballroom Dance Club.”

south County Events

Provided by Debbie Caneen

WED. MAR 4 - KINDRED SPIRITS

3:00 – 4:30 p.m., Waterside Room, Kings Point. We had Dr. Shah speak in December about what being a functional MD means, how peptides influence your health and more. We had quite a few members who missed the meeting but do want to hear what she has to say. You asked and we are bringing her back. Come prepared if you have questions about your health. 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.

THU. MAR 5 - PROTECT YOURSELF FROM FRAUD! FRAUD AWARENESS

WORKSHOP The doors open at 9:00 a.m. and the event starts at 10:00 and should last until 11:30 a.m. at Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd, Sun City Center. With the threat of scams and the increased use of AI software to enhance the scammers abilities, education is the only way to protect yourself and loved ones. There will be speakers on A.I. Scams, Crypto Currency Scams, Title Fraud, and more. In addition, there will be several vendors and community resources. As always, we will have refreshments and door prizes courtesy of several generous sponsors.

FRI. MAR 6 - CENTER STAGE COMEDY - RENE BRAY AND FLIP ORLEY AT THE FIREHOUSE! 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE, Ruskin. Location: Firehouse Cultural Center. Event type: Center Stage. Headliner Rene Bray will be joined by featured comic Flip

Orley on Friday, March 6, 2026. Ticket Prices: $23 Members, $30 Future Members, All Reservations are in Advance: Call for tickets: 813-645-7651.

SAT. MAR 7 - LEFT CENTER RIGHT CLUB 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., East Social Room, Kings Point. Join this lively dice game on the first and third Saturday of each month. Play the traditional version or try “LCR Extreme!”—a twist created by Rick Miles. Guests from outside Kings Point should let the gate know they are here for LCR. Snacks are always welcome. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice. org.

TUE. MAR 10, 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! Drive smart. Save smart. To Register: (630) 6210435. Registration is required. Course payment by check or money order made out to AARP. Members bring AARP card.

THU. MAR 12 - CRAFT BEER & WINE CLUB - “FERMENTING FANATICS” 1:30 p.m., Waterside Room, Kings Point North Clubhouse. Top of the morn, blarney stone and all things green is what we are celebrating this month. 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 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice.org.

THU. MAR 12 - FRED KLETT COMEDY SHOW 7:00 p.m. at SCCCA Community Hall, 1910 S. Pebble Beach Blvd. SCC. Tickets $20. For tickets, come to the Atrium kiosk 945 N. Course Lane, M/W/F 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon to get your tickets.

FRI. MAR 13 - LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP 1:00 - 2:30 p.m., Waterside Room, Kings Point. We are having the library back this month. They have tons of low vision resources and are happy to share with our group. 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.

SAT. MAR 14 - SPRING FASHION SHOW LUCHEON Doors Open: 11:00 a.m. at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1239 W Del Webb Blvd, Sun City Center, FL. Join us for our Spring Fashion Show Luncheon celebrating spring fashion, fellowship, and fundraising! Donation: $55 per person. Reservations required by March 2nd. Tickets are available at: gfwcruskinwomansclu.org or call 813-296-3900.

SAT. MAR 14 - TBONE HAMILTON BAND AT THE FIREHOUSE 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at the Firehouse Cultural Center, 101 1st Ave NE, Ruskin. Event type: Center Stage. The TBone Hamilton Band returns to the Firehouse in 2026! Tom “TBone” Hamilton is a renowned bassist, vocalist, and producer. Ticket Prices: $23 Members, $30 Future Members, All Reservations are in Advance: Call for tickets: 813-645-7651.

MON. MAR 16 - PARKINSON’S SUPPORT GROUP 1:30 to 3:00 p.m., Chapel, 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 the topics discussed at each meeting. Her dedication to assisting group members in managing PD shines through. Contact: Michelle Mason 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice.org or Jill Mask – 612-554-2559 and jmmask59@gmail.com.

SAT. MAR 21 - LEFT CENTER

RIGHT CLUB 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., East Social Room, Kings Point. Join this lively dice game on the first and third Saturday of each month. Play the traditional version or try “LCR Extreme!”—a twist created by Rick Miles. Guests from outside Kings Point should let the gate know they are here for LCR. Snacks are always welcome. Questions; Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice. org.

TUE. MAR 24 - NEW CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT! STROKE SUPPORT GROUP 3:00 - 4:00 pm., Waterside Room, Kings Point. We are excited to bring this support group to our local residents. There was one at Kings Point that is no longer in existence, but we are here to fix that! Debra Battistella, Kings Point resident and Occupational therapist will be our facilitator. Contact: Michelle Mason– 813-492-8920 or mmason@seniorsinservice. org or Debra Battistella 813308-9511 or debrabattistella@ creativeconceptsot.com.

LAWN BOWLING • TENNIS

GOLF

Lawn Bowling Valentine’s Day Tournament Valentine’s Day brought out some great competition this year and bringing home the victory were Jim Blaine & Donna Blaine in the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club’s 2026 Valentine’s Day Tournament. Taking 2nd Place: Lee Marion, Marilyn Marion. Thanks to all participants and supporting members of the club. To see all the tournament results and learn more about the sport of lawn bowling, visit suncitycenterlbc.com. The club welcomes members of the Sun City Center Community Association.

SCC Lawn Bowling Women’s Pairs Champions

By Garry Higgins

This championship match unfolded on a particularly windy day, adding another layer of challenge for the players competing for the “Suncoasters” Women’s Pairs Championship title. Ultimately, it was the team of Barb Mignogna and Carrol Mell with a decisive win over Cindy Higgins and Cricket Meixner.

The “Suncoasters” is a division of the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club and is affiliated with Bowls USA, the national association that governs the sport of bowls in the United States. As such, members can participate in out-of-club tournaments as well as divisional and national events. For more information about the sport of lawn bowls, visit www.suncitycenterlbc.com. Members in good standing with the Sun City Center Community Association are welcome.

“Junior” and “Senior” Champions Crowned

By Garry Higgins

The Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club recently held annual singles tournaments recognizing both “Junior” and “Senior” champions among the membership. Members aged seventy through seventynine competed in the “Junior” division, while those eighty and older vied for the “Senior” title.

More than 30 entries launched the tournaments, which unfolded as single-knockout competitions over several days, culminating in exciting Championship rounds.

In the Junior finals, Eric Porr emerged victorious over Don Prazak. On the Senior side, Paddy Lennon claimed the championship after a hard-fought match against Joe Mattia.

Lawn bowling at Sun City Center offers more than just sport, it provides healthy exercise, fresh air, sunshine, and the companionship of friends. The club encourages residents of the Sun City Center Community Association to get involved and discover the fun of lawn bowls. For more details or to join, visit suncitycenterlbc.com.

SPORTS

SOFTBALL• PICKLEBALL &

1st & 2nd Shot With New Bow By Club President, Mark Erickson

SCC Archery Club member

Thomas Kline recently shot his new bow for the first time at the club’s range. His first shot was a bullseye. His second shot was right into the end of the first arrow. We call that a “Robinhood.” A Robinhood gives you bragging rights but destroys at least one arrow. Community Association members and KP Activity Card holders are eligible to receive free archery lessons and the use of club equipment while taking lessons. Call club instructor Joe Mealey 717-4974639 to schedule your first lesson. Call club president Mark Erickson 810-407-1768 for questions about the club not related to archery instructions.

Lawn Bowling Mixed Pairs Championship

By Garry Higgins

In a thrilling showdown, Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung claimed victory in the Sun City Center Lawn Bowling Club’s 2026 Mixed Pairs Championship—marking their fourth consecutive title in this event! Facing off against Joe Mignogna and Barb Turney, the champions triumphed after a very close match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. This year’s competition saw seventeen determined teams battling for this coveted title. Lawn bowling is a sport where men and women of all ages come together to compete as equals. In this game, physical strength takes a back seat to strategy and finesse, so anyone can master it! To learn more, visit www.suncitycenterlbc. com.

Lawn Bowling Men’s “Singles” Champion

By Garry Higgins

This men’s singles championship started day one with twentyfive competitors all gunning for the title. It all came down to the fifth and final match, where it was Garry Higgins winning over Bob Fladung. Lots of spectators lined the green to watch this exciting game that was played to twenty-one shots, every shot hard-earned. Last year’s champ, Jim Blaine, returned—this time as the official marker, lending his expertise to the championship atmosphere. For everything you need to know about the sport of lawn bowling or to connect with the Club, head over to www.suncitycenterlbc.com.

Garry Higgins, 2026 “Pebble Beach” Men’s Singles Champion

“Junior” Champion, left, Eric Porr; “Senior” Champion, Paddy Lennon

2026 ‘Suncoasters” Pairs Champions, Barb Mignogna and Carrol Mell

Valentine’s Day Champions, Jim Blaine & Donna Blaine

2026 Mixed Pairs Champions, Cindy Higgins and Bob Fladung

Security Patrol Trivia Event Blessing Bags Now Available

Are you familiar with Blessing Bags? The bags hold a large variety of items to help the homeless. They are compact enough to carry on the floor of your car or golf cart and then hand out when you see a homeless person. The bags are available to the public at no cost.

Each bag holds warm weather gear during the winter- a thick ski hat, warming blanket, hot hands warmers, socks, along with three meals, four snacks, plus twelve personal and hygiene items.

Blessing Bags are the brainchild of The Silly Sinatras, a nonprofit group that supports food banks and the homeless and who have been making and distributing the bags since 2018.

Much of their work is buying Tyson chicken products for the poor and then distributing them through ten area food banks and agencies. In 2025, The Silly Sinatras provided chicken dinner for 2,681 families.

The Knights of Columbus at Prince Of Peace Catholic Church helps to distribute blessing bags through its members, and helps with sponsorship of both blessing bags as well as major support for Our Lady’s Food Pantry in Wimauma.

You can pick up a no-cost bag from the Knights at their monthly pancake breakfast, 8 to 11a.m. on the third Sundays: March 15 and April 19, located in the Conesa Center of Prince of Peace parish, 702 Valley Forge Blvd.

By Mike Lee

Do you and your friends have a wealth of useless knowledge? Do you like competition and camaraderie? Do you like to have fun? If so, the SCC Security Patrol has an event for you!

The Patrol is hosting a fundraiser in the SCC Community Hall on Friday, March 13, at 1:00. Teams can answer trivia questions for prizes at this fun event. For the low cost of $8, if pre-registered by March 11, players can participate. Walk-ins are welcome, with a $10 charge at the door. Lunch, including hot dogs, chips and sodas will be served at 12:00, followed by the contest. This event is open to the general public.

The Security Patrol, a volunteer-led service, is “eyes and ears” to our streets, and helps to make the Sun City Center area the safest area in Hillsborough County. Volunteers are only asked to provide three or more hours per month. If you would be interested in joining the Patrol, stop by their offices at 1225 N. Pebble Beach Blvd between 9:00 and 3:00 Monday through Friday, or call (813) 642-2020.

Freedom Plaza’s Centenarian-Plus Poet

By Peggy Burgess

“Margery’s Memories”(selfpublished) is more than a book of 66 personal poems: it is the documented autobiography of resident “Marge” Handy, who has had 101 years of fascinating life-material to draw on! It began in Kansas City, Kansas where she was born Margery Rose Stubbs in 1924. As both her father and her grandfather were noted journalists/poets, it is no surprise that Marge graduated from University of Kansas with a B.S. Degree in Journalism. While in college she began dating, and eventually married, Russel Handy. He served as a U.S.

Navy pilot during WWII and afterward flew 24 years for Trans World Airline.

In 1975, after the four Handy children were grown and settled, Russel accepted the offer of Trans World (the manager of Saudi Airlines) to fly in that European locale. This required he and Marge to live in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Southern France. Thus Marge Handy, at an age when many people are retiring, learned to scuba-dive in the Red Sea and won a tennis tournament in her (temporary) home town of Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Marge traveled worldwide

with her husband and for 20 summers sailed the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas as First Mate to “Capt. Rus” on their sailboat, Norah’s Ark. During her long and exhilarating lifetime Marge has met many interesting people and had numerous miniadventures. She defines those people, places and exploits beautifully in her poems. The Handy’s moved to Freedom Plaza in 2014. Russel passed away in 2019 and Marge, still fashionable and fascinating, continues (though admittedly at a much slower pace!) to appreciate and enjoy life.

SR-71 Pilot Visits Silver Ospreys Squadron

By Tom Harding

In early January 2026 the Silver Ospreys Squadron #64 of the ANA was fortunate to receive a presentation from Col. A. “Buz” Carpenter, USAF (Ret.), one of a select group of people to pilot the iconic SR-71 Blackbird. He brought with him one of the Reconnaissance Systems Officers (RSO) who occupied the back seat of that aircraft with him, Col. Charles “Chuck” Sober, USAF (Ret.) We had an entire SR-71 crew and could not have been more pleased to welcome them.

In the late 1950s it was recognized in the INTEL community that detailed information about Russian military activity was needed on a continuous basis. There was a sense of urgency to acquire it in the early 1950s. While the U-2 performed well initially in achieving this goal, improvements in Russian radar systems and SAM technology brought an end to U-2 overflights of Russia. It was decided that goals for the next “spy plane” would be to fly at Mach 3+ (Mach 1 is the speed of sound), above 80,000 feet, with a very low radar cross section. The result delivered to the CIA by Lockheed Martin initially was the A-12, the first operational aircraft that flew at 2200 mph,

Mach 3.3+, at 85,000 feet with a radar cross section of 1 square meter return. Later versions of this aircraft became the SR71. This was the last major U. S. aircraft designed with a Slide Rule!

Some of the SR-71’s interesting statistics: it is 107 feet long, 56 feet wide, and 18 feet high, maximum takeoff weight is 145,000 pounds, maximum takeoff weight of 140,000 pounds, normal takeoff weight of 105,000 pounds, and carries a maximum fuel load of 85,000 pounds. 93% of the aircraft is

made of titanium, all of which was obtained from Russia through a world-wide network of companies and never detected by Russia.

The SR-71 established and still holds many flight records. Examples include:

• Absolute speed record of 2193 mph

• Absolute sustained altitude record of 85,069 ft

• Absolute 1000 km closed course record of 2092 mph

• New York to London 1 hour and 55 minutes

• London to Los Angeles

in 3 hours and 48 minutes

• Los Angeles to Dulles Airport (Washington DC area) in 64 minutes

• Coast to Coast in 68 minutes

• St Louis to Cincinnati in 8.5 minutes

• Kansas City to Dulles Airport in 26 minutes

The story of the SR-71 ends with the stationing of each aircraft in a museum in the United States. The last of these had a final flight setting a record time of 64 minutes to travel from Los Angeles, to Washington, DC, landing at Dulles airport. It was delivered to the Udvar-Hazy campus of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum at Dulles airport, marking a fitting demonstration of air superiority as its retirement statement.

The Silver Ospreys Squadron is composed of retired military personnel from all United States military branches, as well as members of the general public with an interest in military aviation. All are welcome. The cost for our lunches is $20. Reservations for the luncheon meetings are required and can be made by contacting Tom Harding by email at “tharcons@aol.com”, by Postal Mail at 611 Oakmont Avenue, Sun City Center, FL 33573, or by telephone at 570.498.6126.

A group photo from the January meeting of the Silver Ospreys Squadron. L to R: Steve Browning, USCG Auxiliary Flotilla 75 Past Commander; Bill Kirkpatrick, CDR USN (Ret.); Larry Chambers, RADM USN (Ret.); . Buz Carpenter, Colonel, USAF (Ret.) Chuck Sober, USAF (Ret.); Tom Harding, CO Silver Ospreys Squadron.

Margery Rose Stubbs

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SOLUTIONS TO PUZZLES ON PAGE 14

Khushi Dhaliwal,

Cynthia Cortes, MD

Jami Martinez, ARNP PA-C Allyson Pagan, MD