Special to The Laker/Lutz News

A ‘stars and stripes’ Fourth of July

July 20, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

There was a potluck inside the community center on July 4, and approximately 65 people were served.

?Dressed to celebrate Independence Day, Dave and Jenny Molinek attend the potluck. — Dressed to celebrate Independence Day, Dave and Jenny Molinek attend the potluck. (Photos courtesy of Adrianne Ayres)

The social club provided the chicken, which they got from Publix. Everyone else brought potato salad, coleslaw, macaroni salad and other dishes. There was also a nice selection of desserts, including lemon bars, chocolate cake, caramel pecan bread pudding and other choices.

Before the meal started, Jim Leitzke said grace. The decorations for this potluck were lovely, and all the tables were decorated. In addition to this, a swag across the stage read “Stars and Stripes.” Sandy Lindke was nice enough to mention all of this to me, and I definitely appreciate her help.

Sandi Whiteside, Jim McMullen, and Eugene and Nancy Martin catch up at the Fourth of July potluck.

Nine women gathered on July 5 for a luncheon hosted by Cathy Taverna-Margiotta. This was at the Acropolis Taverna Restaurant. They serve Greek food, and what a lovely menu they had.

The meal started off with an assortment of Greek appetizers such as hummus and Tzatziki (Greek yogurt with cucumber dip) served with pita bread, stuffed grape leaves and more. Then, it was on to the entrees, which were delicious. For some people it was the first time having Greek food, and they really enjoyed themselves.

The napkins on the floor were thrown in celebration of the birthday of Judy Fischer (at head of table) at the Acropolis restaurant. Others in attendance were JoAnn Fisher, Adrienne Wagner, Rudi Lawson, Pat McKain, Siggi, Diane Taggart, Cathy Taverna and Marie H. (Courtesy of Cathy Taverna) — The napkins on the floor were thrown in celebration of the birthday of Judy Fischer (at head of table) at the Acropolis restaurant. Others in attendance were JoAnn Fisher, Adrienne Wagner, Rudi Lawson, Pat McKain, Siggi, Diane Taggart, Cathy Taverna and Marie H.
(Courtesy of Cathy Taverna)

Also on this day, it was Judy Fischer’s birthday and what did everyone do? They threw their napkins up in the air while yelling “Opa,” which is the Greek word used in celebrations.

The lunch connoisseurs got together on the second Friday of the month, which fell on July 8 this month. Twenty-eight residents and three guests of the Grand Horizon community enjoyed a lunch and shopping at the Wesley Chapel Cracker Barrel. There was a little problem in seating, but eventually they all got seats together, and enjoyed a good time of fellowship and fun. Many pictures were taken. It was hosted by Sandy Lindke. Once again, our thanks go out to her.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published July 20, 2016

Relaxing in Poland Springs

July 13, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

At this time of the year, a great many of our residents leave Grand Horizons for a mini vacation to their winter homes, plus some people leave on camping trips or for a quick getaway. But, they at Grand Horizons still stay pretty active with the Wednesday coffee hour, plus other activities.

The Songo River Cruise sails along Long Lake in Naples, Maine. (Photos courtesy of Marty Rubenstein) — The Songo River Cruise sails along Long Lake in Naples, Maine.
(Photos courtesy of Marty Rubenstein)

One special event took place in the community center on June 26 where several people met to wish Luella Wheeling a very happy birthday, and also to say “farewell,” as she was leaving in a few days.

Chris Buckley, who hosted this event, had this to say, “The party for Luella was well-attended by approximately 70 Grand Horizon residents. Cake, ice cream and coffee were served and enjoyed by everyone. All joined in to sing “Happy Birthday,” wishing her many more. We will definitely miss Luella when she moves.”

I would like to add that Luella is a wonderful woman, and I recall the patience she had when teaching mahjong. I also recall with fondness the many things that she had done for our community.

Len, the moose, and Lib, the bear, greet customers at Len-Libby Chocolates.

While this was going on, Marty and I went to Poland Springs, Maine, along with our good friends, Buz and Shirley Smuckler. The four of us started on this mini vacation on June 26 and took a leisurely trip, as we went through many towns with lovely scenery around every bend in the road.

We got to York, Maine, and once there, we saw the Nubble Light, also known as Cape Neddick Light. This was built in 1879 and was first lighted on July 1, 1879. The tower is 41 feet high and 88 feet above sea level. The lighthouse is so picturesque. It is one of the most photographed and painted in the world.

From there, we went to Ogunquit and passed through Perkins Cove. Also, we went on Marginal Way, which is a little over a mile walk to Perkins Cove along a walkway with one side of the rocks facing the water with the waves crashing against the side of the rocks. There are benches along the walkway, so people can enjoy the view.

From there, we went to Kennebunkport, where we saw Walker’s Point. This is the summer home of George H.W. Bush and his wife, Barbara. It has been a haven for generations of Bush family members who have enjoyed many a summer here away from the pressures of the outside world.

Afterward, it was off to Cape Porpoise pier, where we had a terrific view of the Goat Island Lighthouse. This is an authentic fishing village, where you still see many a lobsterman bringing in their catch.

We then went to a “special” treat called Len-Libby Chocolates in Scarborough. We had the opportunity to see a moose made of 1,700 pounds of pure chocolate and mama bear, made of 300 pounds of pure chocolate. There were also some baby bears.

After a delightful experience there, we went for a drive to Grey. We visited Marden’s Surplus and Salvage. Here we found all sorts of treasures, one thing after another, and it was fun just browsing.

After that visit, we went a short way down the road to visit The Barn on 26. It was filled with antiques, and I saw things that our grandparents had. We then checked in at the Inn at Poland Springs, where we had dinner and saw a delightful show —a person playing the piano and singing many tunes. Some of the numbers were real oldies, and the audience joined in on the singing in several parts of the songs. Everyone had a good and relaxing time.

The original Poland Springs bottling plant built in 1904

Later on in the evening, there was a show called “Jerry’s Girls,” and this was a quartet backed up by a three-piece orchestra doing a tribute show of the songs of Jerry Herman who scored the music to many Broadway shows.

The following day, we took a ride to Portland and took a “duck” ride. This was a ride on land and water. When we launched in the water, we saw two lighthouses. One was called the “Spring” Lighthouse, which resembled a plug, and we also saw the “Bug” Lighthouse, with Captain Joe steering the “duck.” We got to see many attractions, including a mama osprey with her young ones in a nest, along with several drawbridges going up or down.

The fanfare concert band strikes up a patriotic tune

Once we disembarked, we did some browsing in the different stores on the main street. Afterward, we had a discussion on where to go next and decided to go to the Portland Head Light. This was absolutely breathtaking, and the grounds were well-kept, with many benches for people to relax and take in the view. In addition, there was a lovely gift shop with lots of souvenirs.

There was another lighthouse that we were able to see, and it was called the Ram Lighthouse.

All good things must come to an end, and it was time to return to Poland Springs, where there was another performer playing guitar and singing in the lobby. After the show, we had dinner, and our friends attended another concert that was located on the grounds of Poland Springs.

The next day, we made the rounds to various sites such as The Poland House Antique Store and drove by the Oxford Casino. From there, we went to Lewiston and had lunch with our Florida neighbors and friends, Sam and Pat Allen, who reside in Maine during the summer. We had a lovely time.

Marty and Helene Rubenstein in front of the Nubble Light. (Courtesy of Buz Smuckler) — Marty and Helene Rubenstein in front of the Nubble Light.
(Courtesy of Buz Smuckler)

The following day, we drove to Gardner for a lunch with our old friends from Connecticut, Duane and Joanne Ferrante, who now live in Maine full-time.

After lunch, Duane and Joanne drove to Poland Springs Inn to see the facilities. It was great to see them again, and we always have a good time together.

A little while later, Shirley, Buz, Marty and I went to dinner and then some karaoke.

The next day, they had belly dancing in the activity room. The teacher performed several dances and our friend, Shirley, took some lessons. Between her and the teacher, they did some fancy footwork and shaking of the hips.

After the lessons, we decided to go to the Poland Springs bottling plant which is located on the grounds. It was built in 1904 in Spanish design. Poland Springs water was prescribed by doctors to cure many ailments. Inside the plant were many posters and some videos. As they say in Maine, it was wicked special.

We then drove back to the casino, which we drove by the previous day, and this time we went in to try our luck. We played a few games, and I was the big winner of 149… pennies, that is.

Sometime later, we took a ride to Naples, Maine. We enjoyed a boat ride called the Songo River Cruise 11 and sailed Long Lake. This was an enjoyable hour seeing the beautiful houses along the shore. We also saw several boats and jet skiers on this lovely day. The tour was on a stern-paddle wheeler and was fully narrated. When our cruise was completed, we went back to the inn where they had Roger on the sax, and he sang some songs in addition to his playing the music.

Later, after dinner, they had a fanfare concert band. Several patriotic songs were played.

That concluded our relaxing trip.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published July 13, 2016

Coney Island comes to Zephyrhills

June 22, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Does anyone recall Coney Island?

Now we have one in Zephyrhills, and on June 7 about 10 women enjoyed this place that serves short or foot-long hot dogs, salads, chili, and hamburgers with diced onions, along with French fries and onion rings. The restaurant also serves root beer floats, shakes and cold drinks.

It sounds absolutely delicious.

Jean and Robert Sanders await lunch at Oakwood Grill in Lady Lake. (Courtesy of Sandra Lindke) — Jean and Robert Sanders await lunch at Oakwood Grill in Lady Lake.
(Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)

Considering the fact that the snowbirds had gone back to their summer homes, this was a very nice gathering.

Upon entering Coney Island, they were escorted to a reserved table. Also, during the meal, a guest wandered in and joined the group from Grand Horizons. So, there was a nice friendly group who had a good time. The host of this lunch bunch was Diane Taggart, and our thanks — from a distance ‑go out to her for a lovely afternoon. I look forward to when we return to Florida, so I can go to Coney Island and remember the great food that we experienced in Brooklyn, New York.

On June 11, there was a crowd of people in the community center for a pancake breakfast. This breakfast was hosted by Mim and Terry Gardner, and Mim was kind enough to supply the following information. She mentioned that 53 people were served breakfast, which consisted of blueberry pancakes, regular pancakes plus French toast. She went on to tell me that there were several helpers, and in addition to Terry and Mim Gardner, there was also Jim and Judi Leitzke, plus Diane Taggart, and Terry’s and Mim’s son, Jay Gardner. All in all, it was a very nice turnout.

Diane Taggart gets ready for the pancake breakfast. (Courtesy of Terry Gardner) — Diane Taggart gets ready for the pancake breakfast.
(Courtesy of Terry Gardner)

As previously mentioned, Grand Horizons has the first Friday afternoon of the month for the Lunch Connoisseurs, but for the month of June they changed it to Tuesday in order to take in the specific specials that the restaurant had for that day. So, on June 14, 24 Grand Horizon residents and four guests attended the luncheon and seemed to have a good time. They went to Oakwood Grill at 2 p.m., located in Lady Lake. This was quite a drive, but I understand from Sandy Lindke that those who attended had a terrific time. The lunch was cohosted by Jim and Barb Holmes, and Sandy and Al Lindke. Sandy went on to say that the lunch connoisseurs for July will be at the Wesley Chapel Cracker Barrel and will be hosted by the Lindkes.

Even though we are back in Connecticut, I will visualize the lunch and the shopping that will go on next month. Thanks go out to all our volunteers.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published June 22, 2016

Grand Horizons celebrates Memorial Day

June 15, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Grand Horizons observed Memorial Day in its community center on May 30. About 85 people showed up for a luncheon. The picnic included chicken, cole slaw and potato salad, with ice cream for dessert. All the food was provided by the social club.

The community center was beautifully decorated to commemorate Memorial Day. (Photos courtesy of Adrianne Ayres) — The community center was beautifully decorated to commemorate Memorial Day.
(Photos courtesy of Adrianne Ayres)

A short music medley started off the celebration that honored all the branches of the military. Following this, there was a moment of silence for the deceased heroes. Then, of course, all the people that were in attendance sang “God Bless America.” This lunch/picnic was hosted by Rich and Chris Fulton, and Terry and Mim Gardner, along with Tita Mauk helping out. There were also people who helped with the setting up and cleaning up. Our thanks go out to all of them.

Since we were unavailable, I spoke to Sandy Lindke and Chris Fulton. Between the two of them, I received the above information, plus the fact that flags were put up along the sidewalk throughout the development to commemorate Memorial Day. This was a day to celebrate and to go all out, and that is exactly what Grand Horizons did.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published June 15, 2016

Donna Dawes, Bill Peters and Jiggs Braman

Joan and Ed Fisher

Berkshires boasts dramatic vistas

June 8, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

While the activities continue at Grand Horizons with shuffleboard, dominoes, mahjong, cribbage, card making, paper crafting, pinochle, euchre, luncheons and a great deal more, several different trips were taken by some people who left Florida during the summer months and returned to their homes elsewhere.

Marty and Helene Rubenstein take in the breathtaking views with Mount Greylock in the background. (Photos courtesy of Marty and Helene Rubenstein) — Marty and Helene Rubenstein take in the breathtaking views with Mount Greylock in the background.
(Photos courtesy of Marty and Helene Rubenstein)

One such trip was taken by my husband and myself. We visited the Berkshires. We went up Mount Greylock where we saw breathtaking views. This is 3,491 feet to the summit. We then went on the Mohawk Trail, which is always a delight to travel. The trail went through the deep forest and historic towns, and past world-class art museums, souvenir shops galore, hikers and dramatic vistas while crisscrossing five major rivers.

The Bridge of Flowers located in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, was our next stop. There, we saw where more than 500 varieties of annuals and perennials are planted and tended to by local volunteers to ensure continuous blooming throughout the seasons. The bridge is the only one of its kind in the world. It was originally built in 1908 as a trolley bridge across the Deerfield River, between the towns of Shelburne and Buckland. Now, the trolley line is abandoned, and the Bridge of Flowers, which is now a walking path, takes its place.

Also in Shelburne, we saw the falls and the potholes. There was an overlook on Deerfield Avenue that provided a great viewing area of the falls and glacial potholes. It used to be a special fishing ground, but it is now used for generating hydroelectricity.

More than 500 varieties of annuals and perennials are planted and tended to by local volunteers at the Bridge of Flowers.

From there, we saw several covered bridges, which are always a delight, as their numbers are dwindling. Driving beneath the covered bridges always makes you recall the times of long ago.

Then, it was on to Hancock Shaker Village in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, which citizens stepped in to preserve in 1960 and is a national historic landmark. Here we saw village buildings, woodlands and gardens. There was also a farm with baby animals. It is a setting untouched by time, yet so alive. There are 750 acres of countryside, a collection of Shaker furniture and artifacts, and a legacy of Shaker values and traditions. There are 20 historic buildings, including the world-famous Round Stone Barn. There were costumed interpreters and demonstrations at each attraction, plus several gardens to walk through.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published June 8, 2016

A lost art in the form of a covered bridge.

Deerfield Avenue provided a viewing area of Shelbourne Falls and its glacial potholes.

Stylists Specializes In All Hair Types

June 7, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Studio shot of young beautiful

Many customers of Universal Hair Studio in Lutz have been coming to the salon for stylish haircuts for over 10 years – since it opened in 2005.

“We have so many loyal customers to be thankful for,” said Cheryl Lynn, owner/stylist at the salon. “Some days it’s hard to believe we’ve been here for 11 years.”

One reason Universal Hair Studio has been so successful is because Cheryl loves her work and is a hands-on operator.

“I know all of our customers personally,” said Cheryl. “Customers keep coming back because we are very good stylists, offer personal care and make sure guests feel comfortable and at home.”

Cheryl opened Universal Hair Studio after she and her husband, Randal, built a house in Land O’ Lakes. Before they moved to Pasco County, Cheryl owned a hair salon for nine years in Tampa, close to MacDill Air Force Base. She sold that salon to be closer to her new home.

It wasn’t long before Cheryl opened Universal Hair Studio, buying an office condominium at St. Rd. 54 and Foggy Ridge Road, located behind Bay Breeze Car Wash.

“It’s a great spot that’s centrally located for our customers who live in Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel,” said Cheryl.

She named her new salon Universal Hair Studio to communicate her goal of providing hair services for people of all ethnicities.

“My salon has been multicultural since day one,” says Cheryl. “I called it Universal because is doesn’t matter what gender, or race, someone is. We are all trained stylists experienced at working with all types of hair.”

Cheryl explained that her customers are African American, Muslim, Puerto Rican, Caucasian, Asian and Caribbean Islanders. The studio also cuts hair for men, especially retired men, and welcomes walk-ins.

“Customers like that they can get in and out of our salon fast, and that our staff is always professional and never gossips,” said Cheryl. “We provide quality services at affordable prices, in an environment that is always clean. Plus, we offer senior citizen discounts.”

Working alongside Cheryl is Yvonne Davis, who moved here from Miami with 20 years experience. Stylist Latonya Spiner specializes in braids and weaving, and has been a stylist for five years. The newest addition to the team is Renee Torres, whose heritage is Puerto Rico

Universal Hair Studio offers a full array of professional hair care products, including Redken, Paul Mitchell, Affirm, Design Elements, Avalon, Frames, Catwalk by TIGI and Crew.

“We carry several professional brands because we want the best products for the kind of hair you have,” said Cheryl.

813-949-7477

24160 St. Rd. 54, Unit 4

Lutz (turn off Foggy Ridge Road)

Hours:

Tuesday – Friday, 10 to 7

Saturday, 8 to 4

Improve your hearing and your life

May 23, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Dr. Reese uses Live Speech Mapping technology to show how her patient’s hearing aids improve speech understanding.

Special to The Laker / Lutz News

“The human ear is a fascinating organ. The only organ of the human anatomy that can be both adorned by jewelry and improved electronically,” observes Dr. Judith L. Reese, Audiologist with JC Audiology & Hearing Aids in Lutz. “Every human ear, like fingerprints, is unique.” Dr. Reese continues. “Just as with every individual’s hearing loss.”

Dr. Reese has dedicated her life to helping people with their hearing. Before opening up her clinic in Lutz in 2005, she worked with thousands of hearing-impaired veterans in Veterans Administration hospitals. Now, the number of patients she serves in her JC Audiology clinic is in the thousands.

“One in three people over the age of 60 have hearing loss,” she notes. “And recent research reveals that those who have hearing loss and who do not treat it by wearing hearing aids are prone to more cognitive difficulties than those who do wear hearing aids.”

Other research has shown that those who have untreated hearing loss experience a decreased quality of life, accompanied by sadness, anxiety, depression and poor social relationships. These disadvantages can be easily remedied with hearing aids, and it is the reason why hearing professionals designate the month of May as Better Hearing Month.

“Of course, every month is Better Hearing Month at JC Audiology,” says Dr. Reese. “We are constantly focused on our patients’ unique needs and matching them with the latest technology in hearing.” Recently, hearing aid technology has advanced to include greater connectivity with other electronic devices, such as cell phones and TVs. Dr. Reese works with the manufacturers who are pioneers in engineering the highest quality hearing devices.

Those manufacturers acknowledge that while they can create the best hearing aids in the world, they work ideally when matched by the human touch and skill of the audiologist whose expertise in testing, fitting and care makes for an optimal hearing experience.

“Today’s hearing aids use more computer power than your personal computer did just a few years ago,” explainsDr. Reese. “Like computers, they often need tech support. Unlike computers, hearing aids endure the most challenging environments any consumer electronic device could face. Ears and people are unique, and ears are the neural pathways to the brain. It’s not brain surgery, but it is as close to improving the brain as anything else!”

JC Audiology & Hearing Aids

1541 Dale Mabry Hwy., Ste 201 • Lutz

813.949.1331 • www.jc-audiology.com

Derby post time draws a crowd

May 18, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Some residents and guest at the community center in Grand Horizons on May 7 to watch the Kentucky Derby on TV. There were more than 40 people there and everyone had a good time. The gathering was hosted by Judi Davis. From my understanding, she did a fine job.

Joan Fisher, center, was the first-prize winner in the derby hat contest. The other winners were Peggy Rhodes and Joan Joy. (Photos courtesy of Adrianne Ayers) — Joan Fisher, center, was the first-prize winner in the derby hat contest. The other winners were Peggy Rhodes and Joan Joy.
(Photos courtesy of Adrianne Ayers)

From what Judi told me, they had plenty to eat and individual snacks were brought by the people who attended. There was a variety of foods, such as Benedictine dip (a dip from the Kentucky Derby), pies, shrimp and more.

There also was a hat contest, as several people came in dressed Kentucky Derby style. Three prizes were awarded at the hat contest. The winners were Joan Fisher, first place; Peggy Rhodes and Joan Joy (who came from Betmar).

Complimentary Mint Juleps were served, as this is the official drink of the Derby.

There was also a human race, where there are horse lanes and dice are thrown, and the humans move up the horse lanes by the number on the dice. There were four winners in this contest.

Bill Rhodes, also from Betmar, received a special treat for his 75th birthday. There were balloons and birthday cake.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published May 18, 2016

More than 40 people enjoyed some fun at the Grand Horizons’ Kentucky Derby party.

A group of women show off their hats at a recent Kentucky Derby party.

Summer is on the horizon

May 18, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Summer is approaching at Gem Estates.

The Monday evening euchre top players were Mae Slipp, Joan Wight and Richard Peske. Congratulations to those who won this week’s bragging rights.

Our Thursday morning coffee hour hosts were Bill and Tess Stacy, with Brent Slipp. Lou McGouldrick gave the invocation and led the “Pledge of Allegiance.” Richard Burgess moderated the conversation and provided a bit of humor along with Bob Riggs.

Those in sick bay are Butch Skidmore, Ronald Plummer and Gloria Hines.

Happy birthday wishes to Rita Kissel.

Remember, chair exercise is a year-round activity.

Wishing you all a pleasant summer!

By Mabel Budzinski
Gem Estates

Published May 18, 2016

Snowbirds are leaving, but activities continue

May 11, 2016 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The snowbirds are leaving, a few more each week.

Thus, our coffee/doughnut hour grows smaller.

But those attending still have a good time, socializing and catching up on the recent events at Grand Horizons.

Birthdays and anniversaries for the following week are celebrated, too, being recognized by those in attendance, as Rich Fulton reads the list.

Since we have left to go back to our summer home, our last coffee/doughnut hour was on April 25 but we enjoyed it immensely during the times that we attended.

At this function the “thought for the day” is read by Gary Wilcox. He has a way of telling a story or reading a joke that has everyone in stitches. I guess we will just have to wait for the fall when we come to Florida again to attend these coffee/doughnut hours.

Following the coffee/doughnut hour, they have paper crafting in the community center.

I do not know exactly what they do here but they sure create interesting things. The people that attend the paper crafting are so very talented and creative.

The following day there is card making. They do lovely work at this also and they send the cards to the individual rest homes for the elderly. It is definitely appreciated by the residents that receive them.

There is also mah jongg played in the center and it is always fun. It takes a lot of concentration to play this game and we have a new card for the year to deal with also. The new card is so much different than the last card and therefore really keeps you thinking.

On this same day, we also play cribbage. I love this game as it definitely keeps you on your toes and wonder what move to make next. Since mah jongg and cribbage are played on the same day and almost the same time, a tough decision has to be made by several people on which to play.

On Friday, they play rummikub which is also a fun and lively game.

So you see, even though the snowbirds are leaving, there are still many activities to keep you busy.

In addition to the weekly activities, there’s a women’s luncheon on the first Tuesday of every month, while some of the men attend Hooters.

On May 3, Pat Mc Kain hosted a luncheon at the Terra Restaurant. Approximately 20 women attended. Since I was unable to attend, Joyce Bell told me that everyone who attended enjoyed the tasty and healthy food. I was looking forward to attending but I will just have to wait until next season, and hopefully, they will have it again. Thanks go out to Joyce for keeping me informed and to Pat for hosting this lovely luncheon.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published May 11, 2016