Features and Series
Whatever Happened Feb. 28, 08
By Melody Jameson melody@observernews.net
Feb 28, 2008 - 9:23:38 PM

…KP’s Giraffe
A giraffe has been lost deep in this gated retirement community.  No, the long-necked critter is not a wildlife exhibit fugitive attracted by the green of a golf course graze nor is it a visitor determined to stay.  It is, however, a valued local mascot presented for Christmas, 2006.
The six-foot high replica in wood disappeared from its “corral” in the African Veldt-themed hallway of the South Clubhouse’s west end overnight February 7, according to Ginger Anzalone, onsite recreational facilities manager.  It is the second time that such a large decorative piece has found its way out of the clubhouse and, given the history of wanderlust, the giraffe had been chained to the floor.

The disappearance was duly reported to KP Security Chief Neal Desch.  Any sightings can be relayed to either Anzaline or Desch.

… SCC Sex Predators
Formal request for a Senior Safety Zone prohibiting permanent residence of known sexual predators within the community has gone to Hillsborough County authorities.

The proposed zone covers the retirees’ enclave on both sides of S.R. 674 but not closed and gated Kings Point, said Paul Wheat, SCC Community Association president.   The proposal was sent this week and response from the county is anticipated in short order. 

Once established under provisions of the applicable county ordinance, the zone is to be marked by clearly visible signage and creates a basis on which violations can be pursued.   It is designed to prohibit predators living in the community on a permanent basis. It does not prohibit their visits of less than five days and does not affect sex offenders.  

At the present time, one sexual predator and four sex offenders are known to be living in the community, Wheat added. Their residency is not expected to be impacted by the zone, but is monitored by Hillsborough Sheriff’s Deputy Rob Thornton, the community’s resource officer. 

…KP Election
The field of nine candidates for five seats on the Kings Point Federation BOD has been reduced by one. 

Russell Foti, who had gotten into the District 7 race against Patricia Boussie, withdrew on February 15. 

Foti announced his surprise withdrawal during a candidate’s forum scheduled as part of the regular federation membership meeting.  He humorously asked the assemblage not to mention the action to his wife, indicating cancellation of his candidacy for the time-consuming board slot was a belated valentine to her.

Foti’s move left a total of eight candidates standing at this time:    Betty Krajewski and Sarah Maguire vying in District 1, Jim Kulp and Aaron Zimmerman in District 2,  Edward Glover and James Vodde in District 9.  At this writing, Boussie and Richard Singer are running without opposition.

The election is slated during the March 21 federation membership meeting.



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