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.

Back to School Back to Nature

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Back  to School Back to NatureJust the way it should be in Camp Bayou   By Gezil Andrews I’ve been in the area three-plus years so Camp Bayou was a new venue for me – After my first visit, this weekend, I rated it “well worth the wait!”  I visited the camp...

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The October 2020 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

The October 2020 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS!

In this issue…

We relive the fun of the Chamber Business Expo, indulge in a delicious sweet treat, meet some local crafters who are helping people with hearing loss, celebrate the SCC Emergency Squad’s and MOAA’s national awards, learn about South Bay Hospital’s new visitor policy, catch up with the Elegant Garden Club, meet a new and interesting neighbor, and blow out candles with a local centenarian. Then, we take a guided tour of native Florida right here in SCC, see some award-winning photos, and learn about the SCC Community Association’s new construction plans…

And be sure to check out the Club, Community, South County, and Military sections to help you plan your month.

Read the October 2020 Issue of The News

Florida is in Phase 3. Get the latest updates.

Hillsborough County has a new testing reservation line. Call 888.513.6321 to make an appointment for a test at any of the seven county testing locations, including three in South County:

Redeemer Lutheran Church, 701 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center

Wimauma Opportunity Center, 5128 SR-674

SouthShore Community Resource Center, 201 14th Ave. SE, Ruskin

Suncoast Community Health Centers, 313 S. Lakewood Drive, Brandon

Lee Davis Community Resource Center, 3402 N. 22nd St., Tampa

Plant City Community Resource Center, 307 N. Michigan Ave., Plant City

Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa

Reservation call center hours are weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Individuals arriving without an appointment will not be tested. You must have your confirmation code, as well as a photo ID with the name and date of birth of all persons being tested, when you go for the test.

For further testing information, visit “www.hillsboroughcounty.org” and search “getting-tested”. In the results, scroll down to “Testing & If You’re Sick”.

Back to School Back to Nature

Back to School Back to Nature

Back  to School Back to NatureJust the way it should be in Camp Bayou   By Gezil Andrews I’ve been in the area three-plus years so Camp Bayou was a new venue for me – After my first visit, this weekend, I rated it “well worth the wait!”  I visited the camp...

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

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In this issue… Get back to nature, cruise around on three wheels, uncover a secret from the past, meet the SCC Maintenance Team, cheer on some lawn bowlers, cruise on an airboat, read about a hero, and take two different paths to the past. Then...

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In this issue… Celebrate graduation with new firefighters, relive the fun of the pancake breakfast and pool party, get some “creative junk therapy,” catch up with the Security Patrol, get some education about dementia and human trafficking,...

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Commemorate Memorial Day, pretty up a pond, marvel at award-winning photos, save the date for the annual SCC July 4th breakfast and pool party, check in with the LRPC, celebrate being “#1,” take advantage of an “exciting...

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

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The August 2020 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS

The August 2020 NEWS is HOT off the PRESS

In this issue…

We explore Busch Gardens, learn about increases to the county meal program, visit a local shelter that CAREs about homeless pets, meet the new SCC Community Association president, get a refresher on Florida traffic laws, review updates to the Florida COVID-19 guidelines, get to know several SCC clubs, travel back in time to see what local shopping was like in the early days of Sun City Center Plaza, discover a new reason to “Get off the Couch,” check in with the Supervisor of Elections about upcoming opportunities to vote, and travel to Iceland’s Golden Circle.

Enjoy these stories, and be sure to read the SCC Bulletin, Kings Point, Community News, and Military News sections to help you plan your month.

Florida in Phase 2

*Orders subject to change based on new or updated state or county mandates.

Testing Centers in Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County has a new testing reservation line. Call 888.513.6321 to make an appointment for a test at any of the seven county testing locations, including three in South County:

Redeemer Lutheran Church, 701 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center

Wimauma Opportunity Center, 5128 SR-674

SouthShore Community Resource Center, 201 14th Ave. SE, Ruskin

Suncoast Community Health Centers, 313 S. Lakewood Drive, Brandon

Lee Davis Community Resource Center, 3402 N. 22nd St., Tampa

Plant City Community Resource Center, 307 N. Michigan Ave., Plant City

Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa

Reservation call center hours are weekdays, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Individuals arriving without an appointment will not be tested. You must have your confirmation code, as well as a photo ID with the name and date of birth of all persons being tested, when you go for the test. For further testing information, visit “www.hillsboroughcounty.org” and search “getting-tested”. In the results, scroll down to “Testing & If You’re Sick”.

Read the August 2020 Issue of The News

Back to School Back to Nature

Back to School Back to Nature

Back  to School Back to NatureJust the way it should be in Camp Bayou   By Gezil Andrews I’ve been in the area three-plus years so Camp Bayou was a new venue for me – After my first visit, this weekend, I rated it “well worth the wait!”  I visited the camp...

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Get back to nature, cruise around on three wheels, uncover a secret from the past, meet the SCC Maintenance Team, cheer on some lawn bowlers, cruise on an airboat, read about a hero, and take two different paths to the past. Then...

Firefighters Complete Training, Take Posts

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Thirty-four new firefighters started their careers this week with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) after a graduation ceremony in mid-July. In a ceremony at Riverhills Church of God on Friday, the County’s newest firefighters received shields for...

August 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

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In this issue… Celebrate graduation with new firefighters, relive the fun of the pancake breakfast and pool party, get some “creative junk therapy,” catch up with the Security Patrol, get some education about dementia and human trafficking,...

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Commemorate Memorial Day, pretty up a pond, marvel at award-winning photos, save the date for the annual SCC July 4th breakfast and pool party, check in with the LRPC, celebrate being “#1,” take advantage of an “exciting...

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

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The Sun City Center’s CA Dog Owner’s Group held a dedication ceremony for their newly installed Rainbow Bridge. The Rainbow Bridge is where your special pets wait for you after they pass on, so you can enter heaven together. We are blessed to have a...

Floating by Fabulous Chicago Buildings

Floating by Fabulous Chicago Buildings

Floating by Fabulous Chicago Buildings

By Kai Rambow

 

The Jewelers’ Building, completed in 1927 and facing the Chicago River, has a distinct look that grabs your attention.  Behind the unique look is an interesting story.  For many years, one elevator transported cars to the first 23 floors, enabling jewelers to safely transfer and transport their valuable merchandise.

The only way to discover this is on an architectural tour.  The best part: you can do this seated comfortably on a large boat with great views. Chicago is considered to be one of the world’s best cities for architecture with a terrific mix of different styles.

JJ, our narrator, provided enthused commentary to help us understand what we were seeing.  Here are a few sneak peeks at what you can expect to discover during a tour.

The Overlooked Streets

You’ll never think about it walking around Chicago, but the streets aren’t actually at “street level.”  When you’re on the boat you’ll repeatedly cross under bridges, which of course, are raised above the river level.  Look more closely, and you’ll notice pedestrians just keep walking at the same level with no ups or downs, but above the water level.  This raised level constitutes street level.

 

The Pencil Building

At the top of this building, which is thinner at the base than at the top, there are 12 water tanks, spring loaded with dampeners.  When the wind blows from one direction, the water automatically shifts and pushes back to counteract the forces.

 

333 West Wacker

Even modern buildings in Chicago are evocative.  Built in 1983, and featured in Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, the contextual design is fabulous.  Using the location as an inspiration for form, the building is inspired by the green of the river and the curve of the river. The glass panes are green to maximize the reflection.

This is a very enjoyable way to explore Chicago. Unlike a bus tour, everyone has great views throughout the trip. In addition to having a comfortable ride while learning, the boat has snacks and alcoholic drinks available.

 

Sleep Historically

No, you don’t have to sleep on a straw mattress, but in a historic building turned into a hotel.  The Chicago Motor Club opened in 1929.  It’s considered to be one of Chicago’s best Art Deco skyscrapers.  In 2015, it was turned into a Hampton Inn with many of the original Art Deco touches put back in place.

If you love architecture, this is a cool step back in time with modern amenities. You can often snag a really good rate and it’s one short block from the river.

 

Tips for a Great Trip

Weather: Since you’re exposed to the weather elements, check the forecast to ensure a great trip.  Take water to stay hydrated. You may need sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat if it’s sunny.

Location: Whether you’re staying in Chicago, or commuting in for a day trip, boat tours depart from an easy to reach location near the Wrigley building. Give yourself a little extra time to find the ticket booth and get down to boat.

Apple Store: Be sure to check out the new Apple store right near the dock. Built right into the side of river, it has its own smart design.

October 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

October 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

In this issue… Take a Brief Trip to Albuquerque, then stroll down memory lane to the beginning of SCC on Cherry Hills, get the latest LRPC Update, save the date for “Hi, Neighbor!”, learn about Little Free Libraries, hear All About the Bees,...

Back to School Back to Nature

Back to School Back to Nature

Back  to School Back to NatureJust the way it should be in Camp Bayou   By Gezil Andrews I’ve been in the area three-plus years so Camp Bayou was a new venue for me – After my first visit, this weekend, I rated it “well worth the wait!”  I visited the camp...

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Get back to nature, cruise around on three wheels, uncover a secret from the past, meet the SCC Maintenance Team, cheer on some lawn bowlers, cruise on an airboat, read about a hero, and take two different paths to the past. Then...

Arches National Park

Arches National Park

Arches National ParkBy Kai Rambow This park leaves a positive impression on almost everyone.  It’s naturally beautiful, fascinating and mesmerizing.  Arches, like the Grand Canyon, is appropriately named. There are over 2,000 amazing natural stone arches...

Firefighters Complete Training, Take Posts

Firefighters Complete Training, Take Posts

Thirty-four new firefighters started their careers this week with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) after a graduation ceremony in mid-July. In a ceremony at Riverhills Church of God on Friday, the County’s newest firefighters received shields for...

August 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

August 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

In this issue… Celebrate graduation with new firefighters, relive the fun of the pancake breakfast and pool party, get some “creative junk therapy,” catch up with the Security Patrol, get some education about dementia and human trafficking,...

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Commemorate Memorial Day, pretty up a pond, marvel at award-winning photos, save the date for the annual SCC July 4th breakfast and pool party, check in with the LRPC, celebrate being “#1,” take advantage of an “exciting...

Taking Our Best Shots of Florida Wildlife

Taking Our Best Shots of Florida Wildlife

Taking Our Best Shots of Florida Wildlife By Bob Sanchez Seven members of the SCC Photo Club headed to the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park. With one enormous exception, all the fauna are native Floridians. We snapped...

Architecture River Tours

Shoreline Sightseeing

(312) 222-9328

www.shorelinesightseeing.com

Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown

North Loop / Michigan Ave

68 E Wacker Place

Chicago, IL  606001

(312) 419-9014

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

The Sun City Center’s CA Dog Owner’s Group held a dedication ceremony for their newly installed Rainbow Bridge. The Rainbow Bridge is where your special pets wait for you after they pass on, so you can enter heaven together. We are blessed to have a...

MAY 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

MAY 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Fly with the Raptor Center and the Jet Jamboree, cruise by the Spring Craft Fair, learn with the Silver Ospreys, explore the sweet business of Beekeeping, peek at the Solar Eclipse, find some Family Connections, help protect our...

Back to School Back to Nature

Back to School Back to Nature

Back  to School Back to NatureJust the way it should be in Camp Bayou   By Gezil Andrews I’ve been in the area three-plus years so Camp Bayou was a new venue for me – After my first visit, this weekend, I rated it “well worth the wait!”  I visited the camp...

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

SEPTEMBER 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Get back to nature, cruise around on three wheels, uncover a secret from the past, meet the SCC Maintenance Team, cheer on some lawn bowlers, cruise on an airboat, read about a hero, and take two different paths to the past. Then...

Firefighters Complete Training, Take Posts

Firefighters Complete Training, Take Posts

Thirty-four new firefighters started their careers this week with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue (HCFR) after a graduation ceremony in mid-July. In a ceremony at Riverhills Church of God on Friday, the County’s newest firefighters received shields for...

August 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

August 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press

In this issue… Celebrate graduation with new firefighters, relive the fun of the pancake breakfast and pool party, get some “creative junk therapy,” catch up with the Security Patrol, get some education about dementia and human trafficking,...

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

July 2024 NEWS is HOT off the Press!

In this issue… Commemorate Memorial Day, pretty up a pond, marvel at award-winning photos, save the date for the annual SCC July 4th breakfast and pool party, check in with the LRPC, celebrate being “#1,” take advantage of an “exciting...

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

Rainbow Bridge Dedication

The Sun City Center’s CA Dog Owner’s Group held a dedication ceremony for their newly installed Rainbow Bridge. The Rainbow Bridge is where your special pets wait for you after they pass on, so you can enter heaven together. We are blessed to have a...