The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Two Unique Pulte Communities Designed For Families

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Pulte Homes offers two distinct communities for families wanting a new home in the areas most desirable north of Tampa.

Birchwood Preserve in Lutz and Starkey Ranch in Odessa offer multiple floor plans designed for the way families live today, with Pulte’s unique Life Tested® home designs. Plus, both communities provide lifestyle amenities from everything to swimming pools with cabana seating to family play areas for fun in the outdoors.

Because Pulte recognizes that today’s homebuyers are looking for different community features, Birchwood Preserve and Starkey Ranch offer families very distinctive benefits. Here is an introduction to both.

Birchwood Preserve

Birchwood Preserve is a smaller community of just 196 home sites, has a beautifully landscaped gated entrance and no CDD. Owners help support shared amenities and common areas with an affordable HOA.

Close to 40 new homes have been sold since Birchwood Preserve’s grand opening last May. Sales continue to be brisk, with many buyers coming from surrounding neighborhoods, WestChase and Citrus Park. Home prices begin at $321,990.

Birchwood Preserve offers 10 unique single-family models, which range from 1,904 to 4,600 square feet and offer three to six bedrooms, two to six bathrooms and two- or three-car garages. Because families with children make up over 80 percent of buyers, larger two-story homes are selling especially well.

Birchwood Preserve’s fabulous amenity center is the heart of the community. It boasts a luxurious swimming pool with cabanas and hammocks, a multipurpose clubhouse with kitchen, and children’s exploration climbing dome playground, swing set and other discovery play equipment.

Families choose Birchwood Preserve because of its A-rated schools. It is the only new, single-family-home community in Lutz whose children are zoned to all three schools at the highly desirable public school complex on Lutz Lake Fern Road — Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and McKitrick Elementary.

Another plus is the community’s convenient location, located a half mile from Dale Mabry Highway and less than two miles from the Veterans Expressway. It offers easy access to St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, Tampa International Airport, the Westshore Business District, International Plaza and Gulf Coast beaches.

For more information, go to Pulte.com/birchwoodpreserve, or call (888) 500-2107.

Starkey Ranch

It’s hard to imagine a community that’s greener than Starkey Ranch. Located in rural Odessa along the in-demand State Road 54 corridor, about half of the community’s 2,400 acres is devoted to lakes, ponds, wetlands and parks.

To the north and east, its only neighbor is the 18,000-acre Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Preserve. At dawn and dusk, the community feels like a bird sanctuary, with wood storks, herons, egrets and cranes. Reclaimed water is used for irrigation in parks, common areas and individual yards.

Pulte Homes offers 20 energy-efficient home designs in this beautiful, exclusive community. Its newest Starkey Ranch neighborhood, Monroe Commons, is an enclave of 95 home sites located adjacent to Huckleberry Pond and the Starkey Ranch District Park.

Monroe Commons is introducing six new home designs, offering two to five bedrooms and 1,950 to 2,470 square feet. Residents love splashing in the community’s pools, exploring the playgrounds, hiking wilderness trails and playing baseball or soccer at its multi-sports fields.

Priced from the high $200s, each new smart home comes with ultra-fast fiber-to-the-home connectivity and the Diamond-rated Environments for Living energy efficiency package. Pulte is looking forward to the upcoming grand opening of the community’s newest models, the Clearwater and the Sienna, which will take place this spring.

In 2016, Starkey Ranch received national recognition as the Master Planned Community of the Year by the National Home Builders Association.

For more information, go to Pulte.com/starkeyranch, or call (877) 752-0173

Life Tested® Designs

Every Pulte home includes Life Tested® Designs that come from Pulte homeowners.

The Pulte Planning Center® is a multifunctional area with counters and cabinets to help a family get organized in one convenient place off their kitchen or gathering room.

The Everyday Entry® drop zone has built-in shelving, hooks and storage to accommodate backpacks, shoes, purses and jackets.

Published on January 24, 2018.

Dancing for sugar cubes

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It may sound like the stuff of dreams, but there’s a place in Florida where horses with sunlit manes dance for sugar cubes, and tourists seeking a break from glitzier and expensive attractions are welcome to watch.

Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan stallions have settled back into their winter home, a 25-acre ranch in rural Manatee County, following nearly six months of performances at fairs and special events throughout the Northeast.

Gabriella ‘Gabby’ Herrmann, who learned to train Lipizzan horses from her father and grandfather, silently commands her stallion, Argentos, to perform the courbette, a traditional Lipizzan show movement in which the horse jumps with his hind feet while holding his forelegs tucked in. (Susan Green)

Now, as they have for more than 50 years, the stallions will rehearse three days a week for upcoming shows, until it’s time to go back on the road in the spring.

A spacious arena at the ranch in Myakka City is flanked by rows of bleachers to mimic the venues the horses typically encounter on tour.

Ranch owner and horse trainer Gabriella “Gabby” Herrmann hopes that Florida visitors will fill those bleachers and help keep the equine entertainers accustomed to performing in front of an audience.

“The audience is a very important part of the training here,” she said. Not only do the stallions perform better when they hear an audience applaud, but they also break bad habits that they pick up on the road.

During formal shows, Herrmann explained, the trainers don’t correct mistakes. In the tradition of showmanship, the performance continues, even when a horse fails to perform the proper maneuver, and some of the horses learn to take advantage of that.

During the rehearsals in Myakka City, however, the show stops and trainers repeat their commands until each horse performs properly, even though there’s an audience watching.

With the exception of costuming, the Florida Lipizzan rehearsals include the same performance elements of the touring show, said Herrmann, who serves as emcee. Individually and in groups, the stallions demonstrate the dance-like movements that have made them famous, accompanied by a mix of popular tunes and traditional drill team music.

The show is choreographed anew with fresh music each year, Herrmann said. But, it always includes a review of the Lipizzans’ noble origins in Austria; how they were brought to the United States after a daring rescue during World War II; some information about the care and training they receive; and, an explanation of their “airs above the ground” and other maneuvers.

The Lipizzan Legacy
Lipizzan horses were bred for war during the 16th century, and many of the kicks and rearing movements that audiences today perceive as ballet-like were originally designed to frighten the enemy or even deal a fatal blow.

“The stallions themselves were the weapons,” Herrmann said.

After gunpowder was invented, the battle role of the Lipizzans diminished, but the royal Hapsburg family of Austria continued to favor the breed for its grace, beauty and athletic ability.

Riders, from left to right, Gabriella ‘Gabby’ Herrmann, Brandy Crispin, Kendal Morris and Rebecca McCullough perform equestrian drill maneuvers astride some of the beautiful stallions at Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch.

Later, the performing Lipizzans so captured the imagination of Gen. George Patton that he helped rescue the animals from danger in the final days of World War II, a drama re-enacted in the 1963 Walt Disney film, “Miracle of the White Stallions.”

Herrmann’s father and grandfather, both now deceased, were part of that effort and were among others who brought the horses to America and began featuring them in shows.

Herrmann said after the rehearsal that her family bought land in Myakka City in 1962 for the Lipizzan breeding and training program because of the area’s reputation as the winter home of circus performers.

“The weather is really ideal for us,” she said. “That’s why we settled here.”

Gabby Herrmann grew up riding the horses and learning showmanship from her father. She took the helm of the operation when her father, Col. Ottomar Herrmann Jr., died in 2004. The stables now hold 29 horses, including mares and foals.

“These horses, they’re like our children,” Herrmann said, adding that each of the horses has its individual personality. “We’re allowed to take our time with our horses because this is not a competition or show barn.”

During the rehearsal, Herrmann explained to the audience that training at the ranch depends on a three-pronged reward system for the animals – carrots, apples or sugar cubes for a job well done, along with praise from the trainer and applause from spectators.

As the winter season progresses, there may be hundreds of people in the stands, Herrmann said.

About 30 people – some from as far away as Wisconsin, Ohio and Missouri – found their way to the ranch for the opening day of winter rehearsals on Dec. 14.

Cathy Widen, who splits her time between Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Orlando, was there with her friend, Linda Schmit, also of Waukesha.

Widen said she recently saw an exhibition of Lipizzan horses in Vienna, Austria, and she was eager to see an American version.

Jagger, a 22-month-old Lipizzan colt born at Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch, is introduced to the audience at opening rehearsals for the stallions’ 2018 show tours. Lipizzans become white as they mature, and Jagger is beginning to show signs of whitening on his face.

“They’re just so majestic,” she said. “And, it’s amazing how well-trained they are.”

Elizabeth Dodge, 15, who lives in southern Missouri, was visiting her grandmother, Susan Ludwig, a Manatee County resident. She said she saw the show a few years ago and described it as “horse ballet.”

“I just love horses,” the teen said. “I think it’s neat that they’ve been able to keep this line pure.”

Herrmann’s daughter, Rebecca McCullough, has joined her mother in the family business and is a featured performer in the show. Herrmann’s granddaughter, Sydney McCullough, 8, is taking her turn in the show ring this season, putting a rescue pony, Willie, through his paces.

Herrmann said she is gratified that, after so many years of opening the rehearsals to the public, people who visited the ranch as children often return with their own children or grandchildren in tow, wanting to share a special experience with the next generation.

In addition to the show, she noted, visitors are welcome to stroll through the barn, see the stallions in their stalls and enjoy the beauty of the ranch, where wild turkeys and deer sometimes make an appearance.

“What brings people out? They know the history behind these horses,” Herrmann said. “And, in these times that we live in, it’s a place where you can still bring a family and wander around and take your mind off of what’s going on in the world. To me, it’s just serenity out here.”

Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions
What: Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions off-season rehearsals
Where: Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch, 32755 Singletary Road, Myakka City
When: Thursdays and Fridays at 3 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., through April
Cost: $5 donation requested for admission, optional costs for concession stand and photos with the stallions
Info: (914) 322-1501, or HLipizzans.com

By Susan Green

Published January 31, 2018

Kumquat Festival offers a slice of Old Florida charm

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The Kumquat Festival, which pays homage to a tiny orange fruit with a tangy flavor, carried on in its usual fashion — despite this year’s challenges to the kumquat crop.

MacKenzie Brewer, Miss Pasco County Fair Outstanding Teen, left, and Courtney Graham, Miss Pasco County, pose with local jam and jelly businesswoman Cristi Williams, of Jovita Treats, and her assistant, Faith DiMaria, 9. (Richard K. Riley)

Citrus greening, insects and Florida’s recent hard freezes dealt a blow to the kumquat crop — knocking out sales of fresh kumquats this year.

But, there were kumquats to sample, and plenty of kumquats served up in jams, jellies, pies, salads, sangria and all sorts of other concoctions.

The atmosphere was festive, there were lots of vendors — and there were quilts and cars and entertainers to enjoy.

John Moors, executive director of The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, put it like this in a news release: “tens of thousands of people came from all over the Tampa Bay region – residents, winter visitors and tourists joined in the fun. Over 400 vendors and sponsors sold and promoted their wares and services. Our entertainment stage at the Historic Courthouse featured free live performances from wonderful local talent all day. Many of the shops and restaurants in Dade City and the surrounding area enjoyed their busiest day of the year.”

Moors also noted that the festival, which offers free admission, free parking and free shuttles, could not happen if it weren’t for the generous support of sponsors.

Published January 31, 2018

Cheryl Howard, of Spring Hill, and Marilyn Prill, of Brooksville, enjoy their first visit to the festival and share their first slice of kumquat pie.
Judy Croucher, of East Pasco Quilters, shows Hugh Embry Library Manager Angel Liranzo one of the quilts on display during the Kumquat Festival.

The ‘legend of voices’ visits Grand Horizons

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A show with Eric Kearns was presented in the community center on Jan. 20. The residents and visitors (161 total) who attended were treated to a wonderful show. 

The show was a tribute to stars, and while Eric sang their big hits, he also performed it in their voice with special antics and facial expressions. He did a marvelous job.

From left: Ed Goldstein, Eric Kearns and Gary Wilcox. (Courtesy of Pauline Wright)

He started off the show by singing “Chantilly Lace,” which was a big hit for the “Big Bopper.” He not only sounded like him, but he had all his moves He did a fantastic job.

For each song, or I should say most of them, he had a story of the particular star that he presented. 

He followed with “Put Your Head on My Shoulder” by Paul Anka.

He did a marvelous job on “What’d I Say” by Ray Charles, which was done in a deep voice that sounded like Ray Charles. There was also some audience participation as Eric walked among the audience.

If you closed your eyes, you could just imagine the original performers.

He did a fine job on a Johnny Mathis song called “Chances Are,” and he did a perfect job on a Chubby Checker song called “The Twist.” He also danced the twist with someone from the audience; I am telling you that he was terrific.

He did a wonderful rendition of “Release Me” by Engelbert Humperdinck and also “Twistin’ the Night Away” by Sam Cooke.

After going through the audience and presenting a rose to a woman, he performed some country tunes such as “Gentle on my Mind” by Glen Campbell, “Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash and more. 

These audience members had a ringside seat to the Eric Kearns show. (Courtesy of Ed Goldstein)

He then performed a masterful job of “Woman, Woman” by Gary Puckett & the Union Gap.

Of course, no show would be complete without Elvis, and he did several songs like “Suspicious Minds” and more, with all the facial expressions and his eyes closed on parts of the songs. He also treated us to a very cute story about Elvis that touched all of us. 

He performed the song “ Bye, Bye Miss American Pie” by Don McLean and did a great job of it.

At one point in the show, he did the song entitled “Me & Mrs. Jones,” where he walked out to the audience and sang it to a “Mrs. Jones.” That was a cute moment.

“Copacabana” originally performed by Barry Manilow was done, and it was lovely.

He also sang a medley of four Neil Diamond songs. When he performed “Sweet Caroline,” the audience sang the appropriate parts in different places. 

He also performed Rod Stewart songs, along with Willie Nelson and Julio Iglesias, and “The Gambler,” which is a Kenny Rogers song. He did it so well with the gravelly voice and all. 

Also, he performed a medley from the Rat Pack. When he did the “Candy Man,” which was a Sammy Davis Jr. hit, the facial expressions were superb.

Eric Kearns sings Happy Birthday to Barb Livingston. (Courtesy of Marty Rubenstein)

There was a cute part in the show when he brought Barb Livingston up front, as it was her birthday in a few days. Everyone joined in on the “Happy Birthday” song. 

He then proceeded with another medley of The Beatles and also Tom Jones.

There were several other songs, such as Al Jolson and Hank Williams, along with “Shaving Cream” by Benny Bell that he performed, but when he did Jimmy Durante, it was terrific.

He did a fabulous job at “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong. His eyes were closed during parts, and his voice was so low that it sounded just like Louis Armstrong.

The show was closed out with Eric singing “God Bless the U.S.A.,” which is a Lee Greenwood song. This song he did in his own voice.

Everyone went home knowing they saw a great show.

Our thanks go out to Gary Wilcox and Ed Goldstein who planned the event. Records were broken at Grand Horizons. 

By Helene Rubenstein, Grand Horizons       

The show must go on, at Sweetwater

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Residents have been experiencing lots of changes since Sun RV Communities took over from Carefree last season. Roads have been paved, trees trimmed, and fences have been taken down at all three parks. Settlers’ Rest, Sweetwater and Southern Charm have basically become one park now. We also have a new park manager, Kim Turner, from Orange City – she has worked for Sun for 17 years.

Marble cake and vanilla ice-cream was offered at the Volunteer Appreciation Dance (Courtesy of Judy Pearce)

Our king and queen, from last season, also ran into some misfortune when their motorbike crashed – they are still home in Vermont, continuing to heal. Since the king was also the president of the Running Water Club, the vice president stepped up. The queen’s position as club secretary was also filled temporarily, by a volunteer. The park voted, at a morning coffee/doughnut meeting, and it was decided to discontinue the ritual of choosing a king and queen to represent the park every winter season. All positions are filled now, and no election was required. Instead of the usual Coronation Dance, a Volunteer Appreciation Dance was held and enjoyed by many.

Past President Walter shows his appreciation to Doris Steele and Judy Dishon.

This free dance was to recognize all the many hours volunteers put in, to make our park a place of fun and friendship. Even our Sunday Fellowship service has needed new leadership to step up this year, due to illness back home. Recently, we have said goodbye to Doris Steele and Judy Dishon, both avid volunteers for many years in Sweetwater. Judy has moved to Glen Haven full-time, and Doris will be staying home now, in Sanford, Michigan. At a recent block party, both Doris and Judy enjoyed the fellowship of their neighbors. Doris also had an opportunity to say goodbye to folks at the potluck and ice cream socials held Sunday night.

Doris Steele and Judy Dishon enjoy their last block party.

Doris and Judy did many skits in the Talent Shows put on for several years. They met through volunteering and became great friends, as many people here do! Even though Doris now knows (through Ancestry) that she doesn’t have Irish roots, she headed up the St. Patrick’s Day parade event for many years. When it was announced at coffee that new leadership was needed this season, two of Doris’ group skit members, Vi and Sandra, stepped forward immediately.

When Cheryl and Walt Kidd moved to Sweetwater in 2009, Cheryl dreamed of directing talent shows here. She wanted to give people an opportunity to enjoy putting on a production together, and to make people laugh, and forget about their pain, sorrow and loneliness. She told me this was her main goal, above everything else, and she feels that was achieved, even though a Talent Show hasn’t happened here since 2013.

Cheryl (Gracie) and ‘her man’ Walt (Houdini) Kidd enjoying the Sock Hop. (Courtesy of Dale Sanders)

When Cheryl was in grade school, she played parts in plays and musicals, in school and church. As a young mother of two children, she enjoyed their participation in plays as well. Once they grew and moved on, Cheryl was encouraged to audition for a play advertised in the local newspaper. She remembers going to the audition, but was unsure and decided to leave. The director stopped her and interviewed her ‘on-the-spot.’ She was offered one of the lead parts in “Love Rides the Rails.” She was very nervous at her debut, but she was hooked when the audience laughed at her first line. She remembers that feeling well!

Cheryl started a theatre group in Clare, Michigan and gave the Benzie County Players their name. She filled many roles in plays for years, and the group is still going today. She moved to Traverse City and was involved in three plays with the Old Town Playhouse. Her favorite one is “Steele Magnolias,”, where her part was the hairdresser, Truvy. She enjoyed the role because she needed to portray many different emotions, not comedy alone, and she liked that.

Cheryl was thrilled with her 70th birthday skydiving, as her Sweetwater friends enjoyed it, too!

In January 2005, Walt and Cheryl decided to winter in Frog Creek RV Park in Palmetto. She offered skits for their existing yearly talent show, and eventually introduced “Houdini and Gracie.” Walt enjoyed magic tricks, and Cheryl’s quick wit complemented him well, as his sidekick/assistant. She tried to redirect the audience to him, but she stole the show with her comedic acts. One year, Gracie entered ‘big with child,’ and she said: “It was “Houdini who done it!” I’ve never forgotten that line. Needless to say, the audience never tired of her antics.

My husband and I moved to Sweetwater, with Cheryl and Walt in 2009, and I clearly remember the day when Cheryl asked a lady in the clubhouse if there was a Talent Show here. She was excited to move in and begin, and she approached the existing president and vice president of the club right away. She was given the go-ahead and directed her first show in 2011. One of the favorite acts was the all-male “Synchronized Swimmers.” No fee was charged, and the hall was filled, with people watching through windows outside. Cheryl was thrilled!

The theme for 2012 was “Hee-Haw,” and the last show in 2013 was “Unknown Island.” I now understand what Cheryl was portraying in that last show, because I went to New Zealand last December, and I witnessed the Maori greeting – eyeballs bulging, tongue hanging out, and threatening sounds and poses made. In 2014 and 2015, the group of volunteers worked hard on a takeoff of “Gunsmoke,” but widespread park illness stopped the production. In 2016, other personal health factors came into effect, and Cheryl sadly decided to stop directing full talent shows here.

First Sweetwater male/female pool tournament winners – Cindy and Don. (Courtesy of Don Sanders)

Instead, in 2017, she decided to offer skits at the Sunday evening ice cream socials. She asked three couples to demonstrate: “How Well Do You Know Your Husband,” and it went over very well. She is planning a couple more skits and is in the process of choosing her willing victims.  I’m sure we will enjoy her humor and wit over and over again!

Cheryl and Walt also take every opportunity they have to have fun and entertain those around them.  On her 70th birthday, many people gathered at the airport to watch her skydive for the first time – she loved it!  On Jan. 6, Cheryl won Best Female in a costume contest at a Sock Hop – she was so in-role that I hardly knew her! Walt said: “That’s my girl” with pride, just as she said: “That’s my man” at an evening show we all attended recently in the clubhouse. When the female impersonator asked Walt to get up and dance with her, he was just as game as Cheryl was when Buddy Holly got her up. In fact, she wouldn’t let him go on to anyone else.

Finally, a new activity seems to be generating interest in Sweetwater, especially since Lou drove to Kissimmee and purchased new billiard balls for the pool room. The Jam Committee was happy to make that donation! Looks like a fun night was had by all. Congratulations to Cindy and Don, winners of our first male/female tournament. Even though the pool tables have been there for many years, I doubt they were enjoyed by so many people like that before!

By Judy Pearce, Sweetwater RV Resort

Event raises awareness about human trafficking

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The third annual Light Up the Night Awareness event was more than just the glimmer of candles.

It radiated hope, for many.

The beautiful, clear cool weather attracted a large gathering to help support victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, and drug abuse.

The event began at 4:30 p.m. with the 5K run and 1-mile walk/run at the Porter Campus of Pasco-Hernando State College, with 314 participants.

Ceremonies then moved to the upper deck of the parking garage at The Shops at Wiregrass, where inspirational speakers, musicians, vendors, activities and entertainment for all ages.

Awards were presented to a number of organizations, including Bridging Freedom, Healing Root Ministry, Justice Restoration Center, Loving You Where You Are At, and Redefining Refuge.

Ceremonies concluded with a candlelight vigil.

By Randy Underhill

Published January 24, 2018

Three-year-old Olivia Luna, of New Port Richey, is held by her mother Veronica, as the little girl pets a therapy horse owned by Julie Shematz, from Beauty from Ashes Ministries. Olivia’s dad, Alan, watches as his daughter pets the horse. (Randy Underhill)
Jennifer McGill, a Nashville recording artist, performs ‘Unbreakable’ for the large crowd on a cool pleasant evening for the Light Up the Night awareness event on Jan. 20.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edie Rhea, a survivor of abuse, addresses a crowd at Pasco-Hernando State College before the 5K and 1-mile walk/run. She was abused for a number of years, but survived and now heads Healing Root Ministry at First Baptist of Lutz.
Overflow performs as the opening act of Light Up the Night on Jan. 20.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Both artists and visitors flock to Wesley Chapel for arts fest

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At the Kid’s Art Garden section, Kaitlyn Pratt of Tampa, watches her 1 ½-year-old son, Reid, as he paints a picture using watercolor paints. (Christine Holtzman)

Sunshine and mild temperatures combined to offer perfect weather for the 13th annual Suncoast Arts Fest, at The Shops at Wiregrass on Jan. 20 and Jan. 21.

Paseo Drive was closed to vehicle traffic, so approximately 125 vendors could line the street, showcasing their wares — including photographic prints, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, garden decorations, clothing and more.

The free Kid’s Art Garden area allowed children of all ages to express their creativity through face painting, watercolors, sidewalk chalk and other interactive activities.

The bluegrass folk band Gypsy Wind plays a jazzy number during its set on the afternoon of Jan. 20.

The Emerging Artist exhibit displayed some of the best work created by Pasco County students.   The event included free entertainment throughout the weekend, making this a fun, family friendly gathering.

Proceeds from the annual arts festival benefit arts education in Pasco County public, private and charter schools.

By Christine Holtzman

Published January 24, 2018

 

 

Shane Maiden, left, and his 10-year-old son Shane Jr., of Wesley Chapel, use 3D glasses to admire the various lowbrow pop art works of Vodka Bacon Studios. Artist Nelson Perez, who grew up in Tampa but now lives in St. Louis, states that his art is 2D, but has a 3D effect when viewed with 3D glasses.
At the Land O’ Lakes High School Honor Society booth, Arty Contreras, left, a 2016 graduate of Land O’ Lakes High School, holds a mirror so Penelope Pratt, age 5, of Tampa, can admire herself painted as a blue tiger.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Melrose Hinton, age 4, of Clearwater, left, gets her face painted as her favorite animal, a butterfly, by Ariana Quiles, age 16, a sophomore at Land O’ Lakes High School.
Bryan Hoag, of Tampa, a cast member with the Bay Area Renaissance Festival, plays the role of ‘Simon Lattaire,’ the village tin smith.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brandon Wilde, of Tampa, a cast member with the Bay Area Renaissance Festival, dances in the street as he portrays the character of ‘Mathis Henshawe,’ a master mummer of monologues.
Six-year-old Katie Cullison, left, and her 4-year-old sister Olivia, of Wesley Chapel, use chalk to draw a flower and a heart at the Kid’s Art Garden area of the Suncoast Arts Fest.

Raising Cane fest offers sweet and savory flavors

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The annual Raising Cane event held Jan. 13 at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, gave visitors a chance to purchase homemade cane syrup, taste some chili, see cane grinding and enjoy live entertainment. Musicians who enjoy jamming had a chance to do that, too, and there was even a miniature donkey at the event.

Published January 24, 2018

Six-year-old Sofia Quintero, of Clearwater, samples some chili on tostados prepared by Deana Mazurkiewicz, of Zephyrhills. (Richard K. Riley)
Six-year-old Sofia Quintero, of Clearwater, samples some chili on tostados prepared by Deana Mazurkiewicz, of Zephyrhills.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This miniature donkey was part of the Raising Cane festival.
Dade City Manager Billy Poe won first place with his chicken chili in the People’s Choice competition.

 

 

 

Irish showman entertains residents

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(Courtesy of Mabel Budzinski)

On Jan. 12, Gem Estates had the honor of hosting Cahal Dunne in concert. Dunne started his career as a teacher and choir director in Ireland. He has appeared on PBS.

The concert included traditional Irish songs, show tunes and country music, comedy, piano and a song played using a turkey baster. 

If you get a chance to attend one of his frequent concerts, be sure to go, as you will enjoy  classic entertainment.

Our next concert will be Feb. 9 at 7 p.m., and will feature the Sugarbear Band. The three-man group, based in The Villages, has been playing music together for many years throughout Florida. They feature music of the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s. Tickets are $10.

Call Lee Heffelfinger at (813) 789-1012 for tickets and information.

By Mabel Budzinski, Gem Estates

Published January 22, 2018   

Residents mingle for an afternoon of fun

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Betty Cooper, Rudi Lawson, Fran Boulay and Rosie Semian (Courtesy of Joyce Bell)

On Jan. 9, 19 ladies came to Terra’s for a lovely lunch, some gossip and much fun. Rudi Lawson was the hostess, and she picked a nice place with a good menu. One of the day’s specials was lasagna with soup or salad. Joyce told me that many of the ladies went for that dish. It was not only delicious, but all the food is organic. Since it was Mary Lusher’s birthday, Rudi brought along a cupcake and a balloon with a card signed by all who attended. This was presented to Mary, and it sure was a sweet surprise. The service was great and everyone enjoyed their day.

Galen and Susan Parker (Courtesy of Helene Rubenstein)

Several days later, on Jan. 12, 47 Grand Horizons residents met for our monthly lunch connoisseurs at Doc’s Pub & Grill for a nice lunch. The menu was quite varied, and there were soups, salads and sandwiches. Some of the favorites were fish and burgers. While waiting for our orders to arrive, we had time to visit and socialize. An employee was nice enough to go on the balcony and take a picture of the entire group that was below. More pictures were taken, and everyone seemed to have a good time. The hosts for this luncheon were Al and Sandy Lindke.

Birthday girl Mary Lusher with Kathel Bedford and Rosie Semian (Courtesy of Joyce Bell)

The following day, approximately 40 to 45 people attended an “Open Mic” with gospel songs performed by Freda and Paul Williams. In addition to Paul singing, a trio from Canada also entertained. The name of the group was Shelly & Friends. They also presented Johnny Ellis, who sang some songs. In addition to this, they had about four other singers.  We have gone to the “Open Mic” previously and everyone enjoyed it and, I am sure, it was a very good show this time as well.

On Jan. 14, approximately 60 residents attended a potluck in the community center that was hosted by Nancy Huey. According to what Nancy said, everyone had a good time, and there was a wide variety of soups, sandwiches and desserts. The soups definitely hit the spot on a cool (or should I say COLD) day.

By Helene Rubenstein, Grand Horizons