The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Grand Horizons celebrates Memorial Day

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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
Donna Dawes, Bill Peters and Jiggs Braman
Frankie and Dave Alexander
Frankie and Dave Alexander

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Joan and Ed Fisher

Joan and Ed Fisher

Judi and Jim Leitzke
Judi and Jim Leitzke
Tita and John Mauk
Tita and John Mauk

Berkshires boasts dramatic vistas

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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.
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.
A lost art in the form of a covered bridge.
Deerfield Avenue provided a viewing area of Shelbourne Falls and its glacial potholes.
Deerfield Avenue provided a viewing area of Shelbourne Falls and its glacial potholes.

Stylists Specializes In All Hair Types

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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

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jc
JC Audiology 1-4v BIZ 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

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

Summer is on the horizon

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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

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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

Why patients love Dr. Smith

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kevinInfinity Eye Care recently opened a new office in Land O’ Lakes to provide optician services. Many area residents have already discovered — or rediscovered — Dr. Kevin Smith. Here’s what distinguishes Dr. Smith and his practice.

  1. New, convenient Land O’ Lakes office: Our beautiful new office, located just north of the Land O’ Lakes Post Office, is comfortable with separate offices for pre-testing, exe exams, contact lens fittings and frame selection.
  2. Experience: Dr. Kevin Smith began his optical career over 26 years ago when he learned the craft of manufacturing eyeglasses from his stepfather, Paul H. West. Kevin went on to graduate from USF, and received his medical degree from Nova Southeastern University in 1999. Dr. Smith has practiced in many areas of optometry, including commercial eye clinics, skilled nursing facilities and private practice.

3. No sales pressure: Unlike national optical stores in the mall, our staff has no sales quotas. We help you select frames and finishes that meet your budget and look great on your face. Our focus is your health – not selling glasses!

4. Designer frames: Juicy, Nike, CK, Swarovski, Revo, Fysh, Costa del Mar and many more! We carry a full line of designer brands, as well as the latest designs in affordable eyewear.

5. N/C digital camera: Our state-of-the-art digital camera is used on every patient to get the most accurate prescription. Because digital cameras are very expensive, most optical offices charge extra to use this important diagnostic tool.

6. In-house lab work: We’re the only optical practices in Tampa with the training and equipment to finish lenses in our own lab. This gives us final control to make sure your lenses are grinded perfectly to match your prescription.

7. Bifocal contact lenses: Dr. Smith prescribes contact lenses that have the bifocal component built into the lens. So if you want to continue wearing contacts after you need reading glasses, now you can!

8. Save you vision, and even your life: Dr. Smith recently diagnosed a melanoma eye tumor in a 40-year-old man. The patient complained of blurry visions, and upon examination, Dr. Smith discovered a tumor that was destroying the eye.

It is essential that people with systemic diseases, especially high blood pressure and diabetes, see their optometrist every 12 months. Others should go every 18 months. Seeing your eye doctor can save your vision, and even your life.

9. We make house calls: Dr. Smith makes house calls in a mobile satellite office in a custom-designed van. For elderly and disabled patients who cannot get to our office, we go to them.

10. Local Roots/Local Resident: Many people know Dr. Smith from the eights years he worked with Charley Chaney at the Eyeglass Factory in Lutz. In 2008, Dr. Smith bought Infinity Eye Care in South Tampa, and is thrilled to be back in Lutz/Land O’ Lakes with a second office.

Dr. Smith lived in Lake Padgett East in Land O’ Lakes for many years, and moved to Seven Oaks in Wesley Chapel in 2007 when he married Sharon. The couple’s daughter, Kayla, is a graduate of Wiregrass High School and attends Pasco Hernando State College.

Infinity Eye Care • 813.803.4515

5420 LAND O LAKES BLVD, SUITE 101

Another awesome season at Gem Estates

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Once again, it’s been an awesome season at Gem Estates.

Monday evening euchre top players were Mae Slipp, Joan Wight and Richard Peske.

Congratulations to those who won this week’s bragging rights.

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

Gracious neighbors host get-together

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Rae and Ernie Rice, and Pidge and Bill Elliot clean their plates at a neighborhood outing. (Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)
Rae and Ernie Rice, and Pidge and Bill Elliot clean their plates at a neighborhood outing.
(Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)

On April 15, Sandy and Al Lindke put together a gathering for neighbors of Grand Horizons, and 32 people attended. I couldn’t attend, and heard from Sandy that the weather was questionable so she prepared her house for everyone. But, it turned out to be lovely, so it was held outside. Everyone had a lovely time. They had Italian sausage with several salads and lots of desserts. Sandy and Al provided the Italian sausage, and everyone else brought a dish. This was a nice get-together to say “goodbye” to the many snowbirds that were leaving.

The following day, 26 more people showed up at JD and Sharon Blair’s home. This was a block party, and we all had lots of fun. There was much conversation, and one such discussion was reminiscing about old TV shows. The block party was put on by Sharon and JD Blair, and also Rox-Anne Lamphere, who arranged the entire outing. There was so much food, as everyone was asked to bring their specialty. Therefore, we had many dishes. There were ham and roast beef sandwiches, cherry salad, Watergate salad, desserts including sugar cookies, lemon cream cheese brownies, and many different kinds of soda. Also on the menu, we had lumpia, which is a popular Filipino dish. It was so very tasty and different. We left this block party knowing that we had a great time.

On April 19, several women met at the community center for a lively game of Bunco. This is a dice game and loads of fun. It was started by JoAnn Fisher a short time ago, and it proves to be a success. Since people are still learning the game, only seven women showed up, but a dummy was put in the eighth chair (as the game is played in groups of four). Not only did we have a good time, but the dummy added to the attraction. All types of remarks were made to this dummy (called several different names) during the two hours that we were there. In closing, this is a cute game, plus it is easily learned. The game will continue on, but I’ll satisfy myself by looking forward to it when we return from the North.

By Helene Rubenstein
Grand Horizons

Published May 4, 2016