Twenty-seven Grand Horizon ladies attended the annual Lunch Bunch Christmas luncheon at The Cheesecake Factory in Brandon on Dec. 12.
(Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)
Since I was unable to attend, Joyce Bell said they all sat together at a large table, which made it nice to socialize. She also said that the menu had many choices, so it was fun making a decision on what to eat. There was a soup, salad and half-sandwich platter, and enchilada and burrito dishes.
The portions were generous, but no one passed up desserts of cheesecake. Many took the dessert home.
It definitely sounded like everyone had a good time and plenty to eat.
There was a Christmas show on Dec. 14, featuring Johnny M, The Brooklyn Balladeer. The show was in the community center, and approximately 60 people attended.
(Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)
A separate area was provided for those who wanted to dance.
Before the show began, Joyce Bell presented to Beth Ayers a check representing monies collected from the Grand Horizons community for Meals on Wheels. Beth relayed her thanks.
Johnny M performed for two hours and sang many songs, including “I’ll be Home for Christmas,” “Blue Christmas” and “White Christmas.” He did a fine rendition of “Let it Snow” by Dean Martin, and people were swaying in their seats for “Jingle Bell Rock.”
During the evening, he walked through the audience and sang to individuals.
(Courtsey
He performed some Elvis Presley tunes, such as “Devil in Disguise” and “Little Sister,” and he shook his hips at the appropriate times and did several antics.
He also took several requests and tried to accommodate all.
He closed the show with “Behind Closed Doors,” a Charlie Rich hit, and “Goodnight My Love.”
Gary Wilcox hosted the event, which included many Christmas songs, some country songs and much more.
The following day, there was an appetizer potluck, and 56 residents were there to enjoy it.
This was hosted by Al and Sandy Lindke and their son, Greg, in appreciation to all who donated grocery store gift cards and food items to the First United Methodist Church’s Food Pantry.
Sandy thanked all of the donors for helping to make someone’s holidays easier.
(Courtesy of Sandy Lindke)
No one seemed in a hurry to eat and run, as they stayed to visit with neighbors and friends.
A pancake breakfast was held Dec. 16, with a crowd of 90 residents. The breakfast was hosted by Dave and Mary Heim, and their crew.
On the following day, Grand Horizons had its yearly golf cart parade, with the carts gaily decorated. Some had Santa on the cart, while others had Christmas music blaring from their carts.
There were 24 entries in the parade, and they went around the entire development, while people waved and called out “Merry Christmas.”
The parade was led by Chick and Annmarie Shackewyc.
Afterward, everyone met in the community center for cookies, brownies, hot chocolate, coffee, tea and more. They also sang Christmas carols.
Nancy Huey arranged the event, and she, along with plenty of help, did a splendid job.
By Helene Rubenstein, Grand Horizons
Published January 3, 2018
