Buc-ee’s – Road Trip Destination

Buc-ee’s – Road Trip Destination

Buc-ee’s – Road Trip Destination

By Kai Rambow

It is Texas-sized, making it a destination in itself.  Buc-ee’s is well known in its home state, and has recently expanded into Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.  It’s a fun, worthwhile stop.

What’s Worthwhile

I can only make a few recommendations here.  This gas bar/convenience store is well over 10 times the size of a Wawa with over 100 gas pumps.

You can get an extra-large drink for only 79 cents. Beside the typical sodas, there are other drinks, including iced tea. This has to be one of the best deals anywhere.

Hot sandwiches are, for the most part, well-liked. A hot brisket sandwich is very popular.  BBQ lovers have claimed not to rave about this, while others stated it’s good.  I tried a pulled pork BBQ sandwich, which was tasty with a melt in your mouth quality.

Buc-ee’s potato chips, called Beaver Chips, are so popular I couldn’t get any.  Trying to order/coordinate some with your ready-to-go sandwich may require some advice from staff.  I did get a good bite to eat.

Gas prices were competitively priced, and Buc-ee’s had the biggest and cleanest set of restrooms I’ve seen on the road.

What’s Not Worthwhile

If you love Wawa’s coffee, you’ll be disappointed. The taste and variety of choices was just okay. Please note the risks I take for you.

The selection of snacks is overwhelming. Many of the snacks are Buc-ee’s products and have been reviewed as too sweet or too spicy and a little pricey.  If you have a really sweet tooth you might enjoy trying something, otherwise you might want to skip.  It was fun to take a quick walk and check everything out.  Suggestion: You might want to select something you would normally get to do a true comparison.

Where to Find

The two locations in Florida are off I-95. If you’re doing a road trip in that direction, I-4 is mostly clear of the never-ending construction. I cruised right through on a recent trip, in both directions.

Shortly after connecting to the I-95 North, at exit 265 (Daytona Beach) you’ll find the Buc-ee’s.  Take the exit, turn right, then look to turn left at the next set of lights.

Just past St. Augustine, at exit 323, you’ll find the other Buc-ee’s.  Take the exit and turn left.  After crossing the interstate, you’ll see the store on your left.

Heading north on I-75 in Georgia, just south of Macon, you’ll find a Buc-ee’s.  It’s exit 144 (Fort Valley) on your right.

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4By Kai Rambow Sun City Center is returning to normal. Our usual July 4th breakfast didn’t happen this year, but many activities traditionally held on Independence Day were back! Here are a few fun images from our nation’s birthday....

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue… Mark your calendars for the SCC 4th of July Fun Day, read about an Important Update from the SCCCA Board, learn What’s New at the SCC library, cookout with the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club, Get Off The Couch with the...

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad” By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County There’s a picture on canvas, hanging over the stairwell to my bedroom. When I see it, I think, man, I look tired. And then I smile. Not because I look soggy, bedraggled, and...

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking EventBy Cathy Meyerhoff, SCC History Society Though May 10, 1961 may not ring any bells with most local residents, it is important.  On that day ground was broken for the retirement community of Sun City Center. Nothing is recorded about...

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The Sun City Center Audubon Society celebrated the 51st anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 at the SCC Community Association’s West Campus Nature Trails. The weather cooperated beautifully with clear skies, a light breeze, low humidity and temperatures in...

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A Labor of Love

A Labor of Love

A Labor of Love

By Kai Rambow

The tiny fawn vacuumed its bottle in three gulps. It was very hungry and had only been rescued a few hours earlier.  Fortunately, it was now at Owl’s Nest Sanctuary for Wildlife. Owl’s Nest is the largest rehabilitation facility in Central Florida covering east to Orlando, south to Bradenton and north to Gainesville. During the summer months they are at capacity. The goal is to help wildlife recover and be returned to the wild. They have an 80 percent success rate. Anything above 50 is considered to be good.

With ease Kris Porter, the director, seamlessly transitioned from one bird/animal to the next one.  Porter is an expert, a retired zoologist with Busch Gardens. Zoologists have studied the behavior and physiology of animals. If Porter knows the species, they’ll take it. Porter says, “rehabilitation is my retirement,” but to see her in action is to see boundless love for animals.  It is also probably what inspires over 325 volunteers to be a part of the mission.

This fawn, only arrived the morning I visited, hungrily inhaled her bottle.  Several fawns are successfully rescued and returned to the wild every year.

To be a rehabilitation facility, licenses are required. Even veterinarians are not allowed to do rehabilitation, unless licensed. A state license covers mammals and reptiles. To look after feathered friends requires a federal license.

That does not cover everything though. For example, there are many calls in a year about raccoons. To work with raccoons safely requires vaccines because of distemper and rabies. The shots cost $700 and the state won’t cover those. One of the volunteers, Julia, has helped raccoons recover because she is becoming a veterinarian, and so got vaccinated.

Nitro, a silver fox, was abandoned by someone and found emaciated at a month old. The species is not native to Florida, and so could not be returned to the wild. He is shown to school children, so they can learn more about animals.

Sometimes people who contact the organization are frustrated. One, because they sometimes don’t understand what is involved. Two, because they sometimes have unrealistic expectations. While I was there a call came in to rescue a turkey stranded in the middle of the road in a heavy rainstorm.  A rescue attempt under those conditions would endanger a volunteer’s safety. And even though Owl’s Nest works with a wide variety of species, the facility does not rehabilitate turkeys.

Porter has great organization skills. Charts keep track of animals’ progress in recovery. A huge binder, set on a stand for easy access, has detailed information on diets for various animals. Experienced volunteers help new volunteers transition to being good animal care givers.

If you would like to learn more or become a volunteer, you can visit their website: “owlsnestsanctuaryforwildlife.com”. Should you encounter an injured or abandoned bird/animal call the Florida emergency number at 888.404.3922.  They will know where an animal should go.  While Owl’s Nest covers a wide variety of animals, there are specialists such as raptor and sea life centers.

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4By Kai Rambow Sun City Center is returning to normal. Our usual July 4th breakfast didn’t happen this year, but many activities traditionally held on Independence Day were back! Here are a few fun images from our nation’s birthday....

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue… Mark your calendars for the SCC 4th of July Fun Day, read about an Important Update from the SCCCA Board, learn What’s New at the SCC library, cookout with the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club, Get Off The Couch with the...

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad” By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County There’s a picture on canvas, hanging over the stairwell to my bedroom. When I see it, I think, man, I look tired. And then I smile. Not because I look soggy, bedraggled, and...

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking EventBy Cathy Meyerhoff, SCC History Society Though May 10, 1961 may not ring any bells with most local residents, it is important.  On that day ground was broken for the retirement community of Sun City Center. Nothing is recorded about...

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

The Sun City Center Audubon Society celebrated the 51st anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 at the SCC Community Association’s West Campus Nature Trails. The weather cooperated beautifully with clear skies, a light breeze, low humidity and temperatures in...

For the Birds?

For the Birds?

For the Birds?Story by Ilona Merritt, Photography by Kai RambowSome information courtesy SCC History Society  When the greens of the North Courses were re-sodded in 1987-8, the chemicals used to fumigate the soil had been covered with plastic,...

Nan Ryan Showcases Her Quilting Talent

Nan Ryan Showcases Her Quilting Talent

Nan Ryan Showcases Her Quilting Talent

By Paula Lickfeldt

Nan Ryan moved to Columbia SC in 2006.  One of her friends was a quilter, and she encouraged Nan to start quilting. Nan’s first project was an Iris that she finally finished after she moved to SCC.  Nan and her mother joined the “Sew What” quilting group at the Calvary Lutheran Church. Nan also joined the SCC Sew’n Sews club.

Nan is a fantastic quilter. In 2015, she decided that the fabulous quilts that are made by the Sew’n Sews needed to be showcased. Every month, she puts up a different quilt in the SCC library and the Visitor Center. Each month, Nan tries to put up a quilt depicting a theme, a holiday, a season, or a special event. The very first quilter to be featured was Lanna Wheatley’s, a library volunteer. Her quilt was put up on June 15, 2015. The quilts are each on display for one month before Nan changes them.

Nan will become the president of the “Piece Makers” quilting club of Brandon in 2022, and she is a past president of the “Modern Quilters” of Sarasota.

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4By Kai Rambow Sun City Center is returning to normal. Our usual July 4th breakfast didn’t happen this year, but many activities traditionally held on Independence Day were back! Here are a few fun images from our nation’s birthday....

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue… Mark your calendars for the SCC 4th of July Fun Day, read about an Important Update from the SCCCA Board, learn What’s New at the SCC library, cookout with the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club, Get Off The Couch with the...

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad” By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County There’s a picture on canvas, hanging over the stairwell to my bedroom. When I see it, I think, man, I look tired. And then I smile. Not because I look soggy, bedraggled, and...

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking EventBy Cathy Meyerhoff, SCC History Society Though May 10, 1961 may not ring any bells with most local residents, it is important.  On that day ground was broken for the retirement community of Sun City Center. Nothing is recorded about...

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

The Sun City Center Audubon Society celebrated the 51st anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 at the SCC Community Association’s West Campus Nature Trails. The weather cooperated beautifully with clear skies, a light breeze, low humidity and temperatures in...

For the Birds?

For the Birds?

For the Birds?Story by Ilona Merritt, Photography by Kai RambowSome information courtesy SCC History Society  When the greens of the North Courses were re-sodded in 1987-8, the chemicals used to fumigate the soil had been covered with plastic,...

From Hobby to Museum Quality

From Hobby to Museum Quality

From Hobby to Museum Quality

By Kai Rambow

“It’s museum quality,” commented the gallery owner. High praise from an appraiser on the Antiques RoadShow. This was one of several highlights from a recent presentation by Diana Young of the China Painters club.

Young recently entered seven pieces at the Florida State Fair. Three won first place, another three won second place, and one of the first place winners captured best in show as well.  Young’s work is currently displayed at the new De Stijl Art Gallery in Ruskin.

Young was presenting to a women’s group and delighted them with highlights from her development as an artist, and enthralled them by showing her actual work. There’s a lot more to China painting than meets the eye.

Young has been an enthusiastic porcelain painter for 20 years. She likes to experiment, learn new techniques and teach others about her discoveries.  The result is some stunning work.  Even though Young won big at the State Fair, she shared, “I’m all excited about my next piece.”

The De Stijl Art Gallery is showing and selling local artists’ works, many from our community.  They will be switching artists and displays every two to three months.  This rewarding experience is just a short drive away in Ruskin.  Note: Gallery is open only a few hours on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

 

De Stijl Art Gallery

100 E Shell Point Rd. (near post office)

Ruskin, FL  33570

(813) 773-7771

www.destijlartgallery.com/

IN THE PHOTO:  Diana Young delivering a well-received talk at the De Stijl Gallery in Ruskin. She is holding her first place and best in show vase.

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4By Kai Rambow Sun City Center is returning to normal. Our usual July 4th breakfast didn’t happen this year, but many activities traditionally held on Independence Day were back! Here are a few fun images from our nation’s birthday....

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue… Mark your calendars for the SCC 4th of July Fun Day, read about an Important Update from the SCCCA Board, learn What’s New at the SCC library, cookout with the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club, Get Off The Couch with the...

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad” By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County There’s a picture on canvas, hanging over the stairwell to my bedroom. When I see it, I think, man, I look tired. And then I smile. Not because I look soggy, bedraggled, and...

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking EventBy Cathy Meyerhoff, SCC History Society Though May 10, 1961 may not ring any bells with most local residents, it is important.  On that day ground was broken for the retirement community of Sun City Center. Nothing is recorded about...

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

The Sun City Center Audubon Society celebrated the 51st anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 at the SCC Community Association’s West Campus Nature Trails. The weather cooperated beautifully with clear skies, a light breeze, low humidity and temperatures in...

For the Birds?

For the Birds?

For the Birds?Story by Ilona Merritt, Photography by Kai RambowSome information courtesy SCC History Society  When the greens of the North Courses were re-sodded in 1987-8, the chemicals used to fumigate the soil had been covered with plastic,...

Hungry for Something New? Different?

Hungry for Something New? Different?

Hungry for Something New? Different?

By Andrea L.T. Peterson

As local legend goes, “A cyclone blew seven tikis onto the banks of the Alafia River in 2016,” inspiring the Polynesian “flavors and flair” of Riverview’s Tiki Docks Bar & Grill located at 10708 Palmetto St. (visible from U.S. Hwy 301, just before crossing the Alafia River from the south).

While you can easily pass the turn off, it is considerably more difficult to miss the building itself—emblazoned with colorful tikis overlooking the river itself. The setting, the exotic décor, are as inspired as the menu which includes a raw bar, salads, sandwiches (starting at $11), an assortment of seafood dishes (from $16), and steak ($24) for the landlubbers like myself as well as a kids’ menu. Reservations are probably a good idea for a large group. The bar itself is well stocked, and there’s live music.

Good food, ambience, an idyllic setting with ample outdoor seating and easy social-distancing—perfect for that special occasion.

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4

SCC Celebrates July 4By Kai Rambow Sun City Center is returning to normal. Our usual July 4th breakfast didn’t happen this year, but many activities traditionally held on Independence Day were back! Here are a few fun images from our nation’s birthday....

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

JULY 2021 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue… Mark your calendars for the SCC 4th of July Fun Day, read about an Important Update from the SCCCA Board, learn What’s New at the SCC library, cookout with the Multi-Cultural Heritage Club, Get Off The Couch with the...

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad”

“Thanks, Dad” By E. Adam Porter Editor, News of SCC & South County There’s a picture on canvas, hanging over the stairwell to my bedroom. When I see it, I think, man, I look tired. And then I smile. Not because I look soggy, bedraggled, and...

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking Event

A Groundbreaking EventBy Cathy Meyerhoff, SCC History Society Though May 10, 1961 may not ring any bells with most local residents, it is important.  On that day ground was broken for the retirement community of Sun City Center. Nothing is recorded about...

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

SCC Celebrates Earth Day

The Sun City Center Audubon Society celebrated the 51st anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 at the SCC Community Association’s West Campus Nature Trails. The weather cooperated beautifully with clear skies, a light breeze, low humidity and temperatures in...

For the Birds?

For the Birds?

For the Birds?Story by Ilona Merritt, Photography by Kai RambowSome information courtesy SCC History Society  When the greens of the North Courses were re-sodded in 1987-8, the chemicals used to fumigate the soil had been covered with plastic,...