The Laker/Lutz News

Lutz Civic Association

Lutz Guv’na race is all about fun — and money

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The Guv’na is back.

The race for Lutz Guv’na, that is.

The campaign is a community tradition that was put on a two-year pause because of the pandemic.

That meant that current Guv’na Amy Lancaster became the first one-term Guv’na to serve beyond a single year.

From left, 2022 Lutz Guv’na candidates Atlas Cortecero, Stacee Campbell and David Penzer share a laugh, while making their outrageous campaign promises during the Lutz Guv’na debate on April 30 at the Old Lutz School House. (Mike Camunas)

Lancaster is eager to join others, to turn her sash over to whomever can claim the honorary title.

“I think that everyone is just ready to get back to it — it’s part of the community; its tradition!” said Stephanie Ensor, who serves on the Lutz Guv’na committee.

Ensor knows how it feels to hold the title.

She won it in 2010.

“It means a lot to a lot of people, and to the candidates, who do it to raise money for charities, nonprofits and the community,” Ensor said.

The whole process — the campaigns, the debates, the speeches and promises — is all tongue-in-cheek, mocking the real-life politics that often flood the news cycle. Even though it’s been going on since the 1950s, it’s only been more historically tracked since 1991 when the Lutz Civic Association took over. Each campaign season, which begins May 1, candidates raise several thousand dollars for about 20 Lutz nonprofit beneficiaries.

The campaign season culminates when the candidate who has raised the most money is announced and awarded a “sash” during the annual Lutz Fourth of July festivities.

The announcement takes place following the community’s annual parade. The Guv’na is sworn-in on the stage of the train depot building, at Lutz Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41.

“Couldn’t do it without the parade,” Ensor said. “People are so glad to get back out, to be able to contribute and, of course, celebrate it all with the parade. And let me tell you, we did not have to hunt to find candidates.”

This year’s contest features candidates Stacee Campbell, Atlas Cortecero and David Penzer. Whomever is crowned Guv’na gets to earmark 10% of the proceeds to a Lutz charitable organization of his or her choice.

“It’s been a crazy couple of years, so it’s great to do anything again, plus raise money for good causes,” said Penzer, wearing an American Flag shirt. “Let’s have some fun with it!”

“It’s so great to be able to do this again and raise money for local nonprofits,” Campbell said. “That’s what being Guv’na is all about!”

“It was frustrating not to be able to fundraise and raise money for charities,” Cortecero added. “It’s so good to be able to do this again.”

As for these candidates’ false promises and ridiculous rhetoric, they were able to put that on full display during the annual debate held on April 30 at the Old Lutz School House.

Over-the-top and somewhat topical questions were passed around to the crowd — friends, family and members of GFWC Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club.

The questions are designed to elicit humorous responses and spoof actual politics.

There’s a talent portion, too, and this year’s included a cow patty toss — to see which candidate could fling the dried-out patty the farthest.

Donations and monetary prizes are awarded during the debate.

After the debate, the candidates raise campaign funds by having raffles, car washes, lunches or other events.

They can also “panhandle” in the parade, in a final push to cash in for the sash.

“Like real politics, the candidates will make promises they don’t intend to keep and they will tell other lies, as well,” said Guv’na Committee’s Marion Smith, who has been involved with this event for 20 years.

“Quite a few years ago, a candidate who was an Elvis impersonator was asked who he would make his assistant Guv’na. He named his mother and spoke fondly of her, just like the real Elvis would have responded!” Smith said.

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Stacee Campbell
Bio: Campbell has been a Lutz resident since 2009 when her family moved to Florida from Indiana. She took right to the small town, especially because of close proximity to Tampa and the beaches. In 2014, Campbell opened Mascot Universe, which is a school spirit wear store that lets kids and parents try on apparel specially made for their schools. Not wanting to stop there, Campbell also opened Lutz Scoops, the small ice cream shop in the Lutz Lake Crossing Shopping Plaza.
Campaign Slogan: Make life in Lutz sweet!
Quotable: “It’s so nice to see people back out in the community and enjoying things, but I also do want that sash!”

Atlas Cortecero
Bio: Born and raised in São Paulo/Brazil with a Spanish/Portuguese family, Cortecero says it’s been a dream to live in America since childhood. He’s the lead singer in a country-rock band and a music producer. He also holds a degree in social work based on nonprofit organizations and office administration. As an entrepreneur, he and his wife, Michele Northrup (The Saucy Queen), sell a line of gourmet hot sauces locally.
Campaign Slogan: Keep Lutz saucy!
Quotable: “My beautiful wife was Guv’na in 2007, and I plan to bring home the sash once again.”

David Penzer
Bio: As a 20-year Lutz resident and a local Re/Max Capital Realty realtor, Penzer has been heavily involved in the community in many aspects. He’s been chairman of the Heritage Harbor Community Development District, and he and his wife have worked for years with the Lutz Chiefs and Steinbrenner Warrior sports organizations. Beyond that, Penzer also has been a longtime wrestling announcer. He worked a decade as ring announcer for World Championship Wrestling and worked with wrestlers such as Hulk Hogan, Roddy Piper and Jimmy Hart. He’s now the part-time ring announcer for Impact Wrestling on AXS TV.
Campaign Slogan: Free mortgages for everyone in Lutz!
Quotable: “As a wrestling announcer, I’ll moderate a match between my opponents, while I take the sash!”

Past Lutz Guv’nas
2019 – Amy Lancaster
2018 – Domenic Definite
2017 – Kori Rankin
2016 – Greg Gilbert
2015 – Jennifer Rankin
2014 – Dr. Cindy Perkins
2013 – Suzin Carr
2012 – Karen D’Amico
2011 – Kevin White
2010 – Stephanie Ensor
2009 – Suzin Carr
2008 – Teri Burgess
2007 – Michele Northrup
2006 – Edwina Kraemer
2005 – Liz Incorrenti
2004 – Dean Rivett
2003 – Joni Cagle
2002 – Brett Montegny
2001 – Helen Kinyon
2000 – Vince Arcuri
1999 – Danny Neeley
1998 – Sandy Ruberg
1997 – Earl Smith
1996 – Ben Nevel
1995 – Kay Dahman
1994 – Lorraine Dabney
1993 – Leslie Dennison
1992 – Betty Neeley
1991 – Jo Van Bebber

Published May 11, 2022

‘A mover and shaker’ is laid to rest

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Anyone who has spent any time at all in Lutz is likely to have run across Auralee Buckingham.

After all, for decades, she had a hand in just about everything involving this community, north of Tampa.

Auralee Buckingham was characterized by her friends as a ‘true force of nature’ who was a ‘pillar of the community’ in Lutz. (Courtesy of Kristi Mackey)

Buckingham, who was 91 at her death on May 13, will be honored in a Resurrection Mass at 11 a.m., on June 26, at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Drive in Lutz.

The mark she left on the community of Lutz will not be soon forgotten.

Pat Serio, who sits on the board of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, described Buckingham as “a true force of nature.

“You name it and Auralee ran it,” said Serio, noting that not only was Buckingham a past president of the woman’s club, but she also had held nearly every office and chaired nearly every club event.

“She was a mover and a shaker, involved in everything that happened in the Lutz community at large, and knew how to get things done,” Serio said, via email.

Buckingham organized the Fourth of July parades and celebrations, and the community’s Christmas in the Park festivities. She beautified the landscaping at the Lutz Branch Library. She raised money and supported causes that went far beyond the woman’s club, including the Lutz Civic Association, the former Lutz Volunteer Fire Department and the Old Lutz School.

She was deeply involved in the Oscar Cooler Youth Sports Complex, and with scouting, too, Serio noted.

Ardyth Bahr, a longtime friend of Buckingham’s, said, via email, that  those who had met Buckingham could not forget her.

Bahr characterized her friend as “a pillar in the community of Lutz.

“She (Buckingham) was the one to go to in Lutz if you wanted anything done. She was unstoppable.”

Jay Muffly, another longtime Lutz civic leader, said Buckingham was “the busiest person in Lutz.”

He credited her for her contributions to many projects and activities in the community, as well as being “a great person.”

News reports published over the years in The Tampa Tribune frequently included Buckingham’s views on issues affecting the community.

For instance, when the Hillsborough County public school district was looking at sites for a high school, the Lutz civic leader weighed in.

This is Auralee Buckingham when she was in high school.

Buckingham said she would welcome it, as long as the high school was kept to 1,000 students or fewer, so it would fit into the Lutz community.

The school board — which wanted to build a larger school — found another location.

Buckingham’s involvement was obvious, and her friends decided to celebrate her with a surprise party months before her 80th birthday.

More than 100 people showed up and spent about two hours lavishing Buckingham with praise for her many contributions and accomplishments, according to a Tampa Tribune account.

During that party, the dedicated community volunteer also received a copy of a document proclaiming May 21 as Auralee Buckingham Day in Hillsborough County, the Tribune reported.

Charlie Reese, who was editor of the Lutz Community News (now The Laker/Lutz News), became quite familiar with Buckingham through his reporting.

“Auralee was one of the first persons I met when I covered news stories in the Lutz/Land O’Lakes area, and before long I realized that she was probably at every event that the woman’s club was involved in,” Reese, a Lutz resident, said, via email. “She was constantly busy and had the loudest laugh, which was often heard above the din of the 4th of July parade in Lutz or the annual arts and crafts show.

“I remember her attending to many tasks at these signature events in our community, and even though she handled many duties, she was never too busy to splash her bright smile at everyone she saw,” Reese added.

She wasn’t shy about sharing her views, noted Reese.

That was back in the days when U.S. 41, North Dale Mabry Highway and State Road 54 were all two-lane roads, Reese said.

It also was “when pastures outnumbered big box stores — but change was on the horizon,” Reese said.

“She loved Lutz.

“And, because she was so dedicated to causes and events that enhanced our community, Lutz loved her,” Reese said.

Buckingham is survived by daughters Kristi Mackey, Ashley Gracey (Tony) and Beth Busbee (Jeff); grandchildren Kristopher Mackey (Tatiana), Jennifer Swisher (Eugene), Brittany Desmarais (C.J.), Dillon and Leah Hulme; great grandchildren Wesson Swisher, Damon Mackey, Mack Swisher and Kiara Mackey; and sister Hazel Cox, children and grandchildren.

A Resurrection Mass will be held at 11 a.m., on June 26, at St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Road in Lutz.

Published June 23, 2021

Alternate fundraiser for Old Lutz School

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The annual Lutz Guv’na campaign has become a casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic and has been canceled.

In lieu of that fundraiser, the Lutz Civic Association is sponsoring an alternative. It is offering Lutz-branded merchandise for sale to benefit the Citizens of the Old Lutz School. All profits will go to the support of the historic Old Lutz School.

This is one of several garden flag designs available for purchase. (Courtesy of Stephanie Ensor)

To view items available for purchase, visit bit.ly/LutzFundraiser.

Those interested can choose from can coozies, baseball-style caps, stickers, magnets, T-shirts (youth, women and men sizes), and garden flags.

Merchandise currently is being printed and first orders will be ready for pickup by June 15. Once the merchandise sells out, there will be a second run to fill orders.

Flags are not due to be in until the end of June or the beginning of July.

Citizens for the Old Lutz School raises money every year to pay for the upkeep of the Old Lutz School, where generations of Lutz children were educated. The money pays for such things as repairing termite damage, replacing windows and other essential maintenance.

The group also hosts popular holiday festivities for the community each year during Christmas season.

Besides losing a share of proceeds from the Lutz Guv’na race, Citizens for the Old Lutz School also suffered a setback in fundraising because of the cancellation of its Spring Market due to concerns about COVID-19.

Anyone who wishes to contribute for the upkeep of the Old Lutz School can donate through the organization’s website, at OldLutzSchool.com.

Published June 10, 2020

Organizers cancel Lutz Fourth of July festivities

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COVID-19 has claimed another victim.

The traditional Independence Day festivities in Lutz will not be held this year.

For decades, the community, north of Tampa, has attracted thousands of people to its annual Fourth of July parade, and associated activities.

But, this year, organizers decided it was just too risky to stage the annual event.

This cake, which was titled ‘The Ultimate Lutz Candy Celebration Cake,’ was one of the entries for the Youth 11- to 18-year-old category during the Cake Bake Competition last year. (File)

“We mulled it over for many, many weeks. It wasn’t a decision made lightly, I can assure you,” said Annette Bellingar, president of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Ultimately, said Pat Serio, a club board member: “We had to choose the safe route.”

Bellingar said: “When we thought about it, we thought there is just no way that we’re going to get people to be doing the proper social distancing at an event such as this.

“Can you imagine having all of those people there and saying, ‘You’ve got to be 6 feet apart?’” Bellingar said.

The close quarters between people raised concerns, Serio said. Plus, she noted: “In the usual extreme heat we have on Fourth of July, even mask-wearing could be difficult.”

Still, canceling the festivities was not an easy choice, Serio said.

The event has been an annual tradition for many families.

Generally, the parade featured widely known local organizations, such as the  GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, the Little Women of Lutz, the Lutz Civic Association, Boy Scout Troop 12 and the North Tampa Lutz Cadet Squadron.

Local businesses, churches, law enforcement agencies, schools, military organizations politicians and candidates for the honorary Lutz Guv’na are mainstays, too.

It’s been a parade that features antique cars, fire trucks, sheriff’s patrol cars, belly dancers, martial arts groups, churches, military jeeps, tiny dancers and kids riding bicycles.

It’s also a parade where it’s not unusual for someone in the parade to break ranks and rush out to hug someone in the crowd.

Traditionally, once the parade ends, a new Lutz Guv’na is sworn in over a copy of Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham,” and the bidding war begins over baked goods that were entered into the annual Cake Bake Competition.

But, none of that will happen this year.

“It really is heartbreaking because we know how important it is to the community. People love it. It’s a throwback to all of our childhoods, small-town America,” Serio said.

Ultimately, the event had to be cancelled, organizers said.

“Sad as it is, I know, I really, really know, that we’ve done the right thing,” Bellingar said.

“It would be so sad that if something like this was held this year and then following that, it brought to the surrounding area a huge spike in people coming down with the virus and maybe even passing from it,” the club president said. “We just thought that would be the most atrocious thing, ever, to happen.

“Next year, we are hoping that everything would be truly wonderful, and it would be bigger and better in 2021,” Bellingar said.

Published June 03, 2020

Honoring those who have gone before

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When Vernon Wynn looks across U.S. 41, he can see the final resting place of dozens of his relatives.

They’re among the roughly 1,600 people buried in Lutz Cemetery, at the corner of U.S. 41 and Fifth Ave., N .E.

The cemetery was established in 1911, and the first person buried there is known only as Mr. Nims, according to local historians. His grave marker is gone, but he is believed to have been buried there in 1914.

A scene from the Lutz Cemetery, as mist rises on a recent early morning. (B.C. Manion)

The plot of land offers a look into the community’s past, with generations of families buried there, and hundreds of veterans, too.

Some grave markers offer a spiritual message: “The Lord is my shepherd,” and “Thy will be done” and, “Every day is a gift from God. Share it with someone else.”

Another states simply: “Gone, but not forgotten.”

Some laid to rest there are widely known throughout Lutz.

Oscar Cooler, for instance, was a champion for youth sports, and there’s a sports complex named for him on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Carolyn Meeker, former president of the Lutz Civic Association, is buried there, too. She was tenacious at Hillsborough County zoning hearings, taking on anyone who threatened to change the character of Lutz.

Ralph Combs, the very first Eagle Scout from Troop 12, is laid to rest there, too, Wynn said.

Wynn, who is president of the Lutz Cemetery Association, has deep roots in Lutz.

“My grandparents came here in 1920,” he said. “Where I live now, is where I was born and raised.”

Kathy Vanater, Vernon Wynn and Bob Jackson are officers in the Lutz Cemetery Association. They’re working to ensure the upkeep of the cemetery, where an estimated 1,600 are buried.

And, it’s because of that affinity for the community that Wynn decided to take an active role in the cemetery association.

The group wants to ensure that the grounds are well-kept, into perpetuity.

Wynn said their aim is: “To make sure that everything is going to be good for the community.”

“It’s paying respect to the people buried there,” said Kathy Vanater, the cemetery association’s secretary/treasurer.

Land for the cemetery was donated to the community, more than a century ago, by C.E. Thomas, who was president of the North Tampa Land Company, according to accounts published in The Tampa Tribune and other local publications.

The company was made up of a group of Chicago landowners who bought about 32,000 acres, north of the city of Tampa.

The original cemetery plot was 230 feet by 80 feet, according to “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters, Crackers …,” a local history book by Elizabeth Riegler MacManus and her daughter, Susan A. MacManus.

Over time, the cemetery has expanded.

“The folks in the community used to take care of the grounds,” Vanater said.

Volunteers gather in 1911 to clear land for the Lutz Cemetery. (Credit: ‘Going, Going, Almost Gone … Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Pioneers Share Their Precious Memories’)

Indeed, according to the MacManus book, when area residents gathered to clean up the cemetery, men would come with hoses and rakes, and women would pack a picnic lunch.

But, by the mid-1950s, the volunteer cleanups had dwindled.

“So, the Lutz Cemetery Association formed in 1956,” Vanater said.

For decades, the organization was low-key.

In recent years, though, a more active group of volunteers has stepped up — completing needed repairs, maintaining the grounds and making plans for its future upkeep.

Dead trees have been removed. The utility shed has a new roof. A replica of the original archway has been erected, and there’s now a cemetery sign.

Over the years, most of the cemetery plots have been sold, said Vanater, a banker, by profession. But, when those plots were sold, the sales weren’t accompanied by perpetual maintenance plans, and now there are just about 75 plots remaining, she said.

So, Vanater said, “we’re trying to keep an income to be able to maintain the grounds.”

To that end, Bob Jackson, the association’s vice president for administration, spent months researching the idea of purchasing a columbarium — which contains niches for urns containing cremains.

Like Wynn, Jackson feels a personal connection to the traditional burial place in Lutz.

“I’m fourth generation. My grandparents are in that cemetery,” Jackson said.

After months of research, he found a company in Canada that produces the kind of columbarium the association found suitable for the cemetery.

The first columbarium was installed at the cemetery in July. It has 64 niches, which can hold two urns each.

The cemetery has plenty of space to erect additional columbariums, depending on the demand.

Besides providing a source of revenue for the cemetery, the columbarium provides additional capacity to serve people who want Lutz to be their final resting place, said Vanater, who joined the volunteer association at the request of a friend, and expected to pitch in for a year. That was nine years ago.

The association, Wynn said, just wants to keep the community’s cemetery alive.

Lutz Cemetery Association Board Members
Vernon Wynn, president
Bob Jackson, vice president
Mary Lewis, vice president
Kathy Vanater, secretary/treasurer
Judi Wynn
Terry Donovan
John Hodges
Tim Goins

Columbariums
For those interested in having Lutz as their final resting place, there’s another option available.

The Lutz Cemetery Association has added a columbarium that has 64 niches. Each niche can hold two urns each.

The new option provides a source of revenue needed to continue the upkeep of the cemetery grounds, and also expands the capacity of the cemetery to accommodate more people who wish for it to be their final resting place.

Each of the niches in the columbarium holds up to two urns, with the cost for the niches ranging from $1,200 to $1,500, depending on the niche’s location in the columbarium.

Anyone who wishes to purchase a niche should contact Bob Jackson, (813) 928-9412 or Vern Wynn, at (813) 293-0263.

Published December 11, 2019

Lutz Independence Day has tradition, flair

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The atmosphere was festive as thousands converged on the community of Lutz to celebrate the Fourth of July, on a bright, sunshiny day.

A large crowd gathers along the parade route and watches as Canine Companions proceeds to downtown Lutz.
(Courtesy of Randy Underhill)

The event included a 5-K, a 1-mile fun run, a baking contest, a flag-raising ceremony, a baking contest and, the main attraction — a parade.

 

This Independence Day marked the nation’s 242 birthday, and was the 74th time that Lutz to celebrate.

Vendors were there early, along with a small display of antique farm tractors.

Hundreds of runners for the 5-K and for 1-mile fun run were there early, too, warming up for their races.

The color guards for Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Civil Air Patrol presided over the flag-raising ceremony in front of the Lutz Branch Library.

Jennifer Rankin, right, swears in Domenic DiFante as the new Honorary Guv’na of Lutz, on the platform of the Lutz Train Depot.

People set up their chairs and blankets along the parade route, or sat on the bleachers across from the library.

And, the colors of the day were red, white and blue.

Parade-watchers had plenty to see in a fun-filled, parade that lasted nearly two hours and boasted 63 entries this year.

Vehicles drove by, with flashing lights and sirens, and parade participants tossed candy and beads to the delight of children along the route.

The stage of Lutz’s Train Depot building was the setting for annual changing of the guard, as last year’s Honorary Guv’na Kori Rankin passed along the coveted sash to Domenic DiFante, this year’s winner.

This year, the fundraiser brought in more than $13,600 in donations.

The cake auction was a big hit, as the 22 entries — including cakes, cupcakes and a 5-pound apple pie — fetched bids ranging from $25 to $125.

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Inc., the Lutz Civic Association and several local businesses sponsored this year’s celebration.

By Randy Underhill

Published July 11, 2018

Grandmother Luz Breton, of Lutz, holds onto 2-year-old Eva Jimeno, as 7-year-old Sofia Caban, 4-year-old Bella Jimeno, and 4-year-old Victoria Caban, watch the parade and hope for candy and beads to be tossed their way.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The top bidder for the Army Truck cake was June Mussleman, who won with a bid of $25. The cake was created by Sarah Robison, age, 15, of Lutz.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew Delaney, age 9, a Trinity Oaks student, sits atop an antique Ford tractor as grandpa Rohn Harmer,75, stands by. Both grandpa and grandson took part in the run, with Andrew placing third in the 1-mile run.
Brian Zebrowski, of Lutz, hands his 6-year-old daughter, Gabriella, a treat from the Atomic Trolle, while 4-year-old Tre’Anna Harrison and grandmother Michelle Bollman,owner of the treat mobile, look on.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The flag-raising ceremony was conducted by the color guards of Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Civil Air Patrol, Carmen Rae singing the Star Spangled Banner, in front of the Lutz Branch Library during the Lutz Independence Day festivities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The start of the 8 a.m. 5-K run heading west on Lutz Lake Fern Rd. There were 337 runners in the 5-K and 108 runners in the 1-mile run. Sixteen-year-old Jake Turner, from Brandon won the 5-K with a time of 16:20.

 

Lutz Guv’na hopefuls face off in amusing debate

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The afternoon was hot and sizzling — and so was the 2018 Lutz Guv’na Debate at the Old Lutz School.

So much so that the May 19 event ended in a tie, a first in the debate’s long history.

Kandy Sinquefield of American BellyDance Studio and returning candidate Jessica Sherman of Pinch A Penny each earned the same number of “votes” (most guests in the audience)— earning a split of a $100 campaign donation from Flip Flop Embroidery Shoppe.

Besides the Guv’na debate, candidates displayed their skills in other competitions, like curling— concocting the best hairstyle on a wig using a curling iron. Returning candidate Jessica Sherman, left, shows off her masterpiece. (Kevin Weiss)

A third candidate, Domenic DiFante of Panini’s Bar & Grill, couldn’t make the debate. He was instead represented by one of his employees, Alex Robertson, who diplomatically threw his full support behind his absent boss.

Said Robertson, “He’s a great man, and I think he will give the community a great service by being your next Guv’na.”

The annual affair isn’t your typical “political” debate.

The candidates were required to ring a bell before answering a series of satirical questions from a few dozen Lutz residents and family members in the crowd.

Other games and fun activities were mixed in throughout the fun-filled afternoon, which was emceed by Paul Vahue of First Baptist Church in Lutz.

Among the most intense “hot button” debate questions: “Are you a liberal or conservative when it comes to pizza toppings, and should there be punishment for ordering pineapple on pizza?”

Sherman advocated for “pizza freedom.”

Sinquefield supported the right to choose any pizza topping, but added, “just don’t ask me to clean up for you when you get sick from eating it.”

Robertson, on behalf of DiFante, took a more hardline approach to the pizza topping issue.

“There’s just a few things in life that just don’t go together,” he said, “and pineapple on pizza is one of them.”

Another “controversial” topic dear to Lutz residents was also broached: “Should Lutz secede from the state of Florida?”

In true political fashion, Robertson avoided the topic entirely, redirecting the conversation to Difante’s “tax plan” and campaign promise of “chicken wings, overstuffed sandwiches and cold beer at every corner of the city.”

To quell other “voters” concerns, Sherman and Sinquefield both said the unincorporated town should remain a part of the Sunshine State.

Said Sherman, “I think Lutz is just fine the way it is. If I win Guv’na, I’m not going to do anything. Everything’s just fine.”

Added Sinquefield: “I don’t think Lutz should secede from the union. If people don’t like what we do in Lutz, then they need to move to Carrollwood…”

Another Lutz-centric debate question that drew wonderment from many — “Which object should be dropped in Lutz on New Year’s Eve?”

Sinquefield mentioned a rhinestone-covered replica of the Lutz Train Depot.

Sherman liked the idea of dropping a giant alligator.

Robertson— trying to appeal to the crowd’s appetites — proposed unloading a 75-foot tall, 1,500-pound “overstuffed” sandwich — a Panini’s staple. “Everybody bring a fork,” he quipped.

In between the many colorful debate questions were a series of “Olympic-type” activities.

Except, they were just slightly different from the real thing.

The “curling” competition required the trio to use a curling iron on a synthetic wig — concocting the best hairstyle possible. Sinquefield reigned supreme in that.

Meantime, the makeshift synchronized swimming event required candidates to shake and wave swim noodles attached to tennis shoes, to mimic the symbiotic motion of legs and feet behind the veil of a blue tarp that served as water.

The routines drew more cackles than points for grace, but each earned a participation prize.

Guv’na candidates also used the debate platform to show off their special talents.

Sherman displayed the same “epic dance moves” from last year, comically resembling those popularized by “Seinfeld” TV series character Elaine Benes, portrayed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Sinquefield, unsurprisingly, shared a belly dance routine.

Robertson conceded the talent show entirely, bowing to Sinquefield’s performance. “There’s nothing I can do that can follow that,” he said modestly.

At the end of the debate, each candidate revealed their official campaign slogan.

Sherman stayed true to last year’s “Keep Lutz Local” slogan.

She explained: “Lutz is a very special community. Ninety percent of our business owners are local, Lutz owned and operated businesses, and it’s super important we keep that family vibe that we don’t have in a lot of places, like Carrollwood.”

Sinquefield’s slogan was more brash: “I don’t want your vote—I want your money!” she said.

Difante’s slogan was “Let’s get overstuffed!”

The meaning was explained in a statement read by Robertson: “I’ve mastered the overstuffed sandwich. Now I want to overstuff your wallets, bank accounts and bellies!”

The whimsical debate was all done in an effort for candidates to drum up as much support as they could, hoping to raise as much money as possible for their “campaigns,” which ultimately go to benefitting several nonprofits and local organizations in Lutz.

The annual Guv’na Race fundraiser continues through the Fourth of July weekend, where the winner is announced, and earns the coveted “sash” and honorary title from the prior year’s winner.

The race started in 1991 and is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association.

It typically raises several thousand dollars for about 20 beneficiaries.

Dignitaries at the event included a handful of former Guv’na winners and candidates, the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, and representatives from the Old Lutz School and the Lutz Civic Association, among others.

Lutz Guv’na candidate upcoming fundraisers

Candidate Domenic DiFante

  • Kill the Keg: May 31 from 11 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., at Panini’s Bar and Grill, 3973 Van Dyke Road in Lutz. There will be music and karaoke, corn hole, jumbo Jenga, jumbo Connect Four, beer pong and more. Wristbands for “Kill the Keg” are $15. For information, call (813) 962-3479.

Candidate Jessica Sherman

Candidate Kandy Sinquefield

  • BellyDance 4 A Cause: June 10 at 2 p.m., at the Sydney Center, 102 Whitaker Road, Lutz. A belly dance show to benefit the Lutz Guv’na race that will feature many styles of belly dance, colorful costumes and uplifting music. Tickets are $15 and available at Kandy4LutzGovna.com or at the door, if available. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.
  • Barbecue and Belly Dancing: June 17 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at UNION72 Barbecue, 2000 Piazza Ave., Suite 150, in Wesley Chapel. Bring the whole family out to eat at UNION72 and help support Kandy. A portion of the bill will be donated to the Guv’na’s race by the restaurant. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.
  • Miss Lutz Pageant: June 23 at 7 p.m., at the Sydney Center, 102 Whitaker Road, Lutz. Contestants are still needed to show off their talent and an evening gown. Participants must be older than age 18, live in Lutz and be available for the Lutz 4th of July Parade. Tickets are $15. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.

Published May 30, 2018

Guv’na incumbent looks to defend ‘sash’

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With three weeks remaining in the Lutz Guv’na race, incumbent candidate Greg Gilbert is looking to defend the ‘sash.’

Gilbert, the managing owner of Beef O’ Brady’s in Lutz, became last year’s honorary mayor of Lutz, raising more than $1,500.

But, with two formidable challengers this year — Jessica Sherman, of Pinch A Penny, and Kori Rankin, of Kori Rankin Photography — winning again won’t likely come easy, he admits.

Gilbert readies to toss a cow patty, during last month’s Lutz Guv’na Debate, at the Old Lutz School. (Kevin Weiss)

“Those girls seem very impressive with being involved with the community, so I don’t feel like I have any advantage over anybody,” Gilbert said. “I think it’s all going to be work, work, work to stay in the race.”

Gilbert and his family moved to Spring Hill in 2013.

Before moving to Florida, he spent 20-plus years in Michigan working as a general manager for both T.G.I. Fridays and Ruby Tuesday.

Though he doesn’t live in Lutz, Gilbert has tried to ingrain himself within the area, since taking over the local restaurant in December 2015.

“I know most of the regulars now; I’ve been out in the community a little bit more,” he said.

Gilbert decided to re-enter the Guv’na race to provide “a challenge” to the other contenders.

“It’s all for fun, so I thought it’d be a fun thing to do,” Gilbert said. “Last year I was afraid to do it, because I am not the public speaker kind of guy, and I had enough fun last year that I thought I’d try again.”

He’s stayed busy on the campaign trail, organizing various donations and raffles.

He also plans to host a classic car show July 1, and designate a percent of restaurant sales to the Guv’na campaign.

While he didn’t win the May 20 Guv’na debate, Gilbert arguably had the top slogan: “Hang up your boots in Lutz.”

Last year’s slogan — “Beef it up at Brady’s” — was equally catchy.

Additionally, many of Gilbert’s platform answers during the tongue-in-cheek event still resonate.

The Guv’na hopeful advocated for a motorcycle ban in Lutz, to make roads safer and less noisy. He, too, endeared himself to the women of Lutz by proposing free massages “at least once a week.”

“The first year I spent a couple days thinking about the things I wanted to say, and then this year it seemed to have come a little bit faster and easier,” Gilbert said of his debate answers.

Greg Gilbert is the incumbent candidate for the annual Lutz Guv’na race. Gilbert is the managing owner of Beef O’ Brady’s, 18421 N. U.S. 41 in Lutz.

When he’s not working or dedicating time to fundraising efforts, the Guv’na incumbent has a passion for brainteasers — he previously described himself as a “crossword and Sudoku junkie.”

No matter the outcome of this year’s Guv’na race, Gilbert is just content to raise money for a good cause.

“I’ll be happy with whoever wins, I really will,” he said.

The Guv’na race continues through the Fourth of July weekend.

The winner will be announced after the community’s traditional parade.

The annual charity event— which started in 1991— is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association, and benefits about 20 local causes, including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Old Lutz School and the Friends of the Library.

More than $100,000 has been raised in the past decade alone.

The winner of the Guv’na race may also earmark 10 percent of what they raise to the organization of their choice.

If you’d like to contribute to Gilbert’s campaign, visit Beef ’O’ Brady’s Lutz, or call (813) 909-2300.

Published June 14, 2017

Lutz Guv’na candidates face off in lively debate

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It was a landslide for one first-time Lutz Guv’na hopeful.

Jessica Sherman of Pinch A Penny was voted the winner of the Lutz Guv’na Debate, at the Old Lutz School on May 20.

She also claimed the debate’s talent contest, appealing to “voters” with her dancing skills (and baked goods).

The annual Lutz Guv’na Debate was held on May 20, at the Old Lutz School. It featured three candidates, Jessica Sherman, left, Kori Rankin and Greg Gilbert.
(Kevin Weiss)

And,  she earned a $100 campaign donation for bringing the most guests — by far— to the fun-filled shindig.

The other candidates — incumbent Greg Gilbert of Beef O’ Brady’s and Kori Rankin of Kori Rankin Photography — had their moments, too.

Gilbert created arguably the best slogan: “Hang up your boots in Lutz.”

Rankin, meanwhile, displayed her superior athleticism, dominating a cow chip-throwing contest.

The annual affair isn’t your typical “political” debate.

Besides answering satirical questions from the crowd, the trio squared off in several entertaining competitions, ranging from a costume contest to alligator watermelon-carving.

There also was a makeshift field sobriety test — blowing and tying a “breathalyzer” balloon while traversing along a zigzagged line.

Sherman and Rankin passed with relative ease.

Gilbert failed.

“Apparently happy hour at Beef O’ Brady’s is before 2 o’ clock,” emcee Paul Vahue quipped.

The amusement didn’t stop there.

Incumbent Guv’na Greg Gilbert readies for a cow chip-throwing contest. It was just one of the many challenges during the Lutz Guv’na Debate.

As usual, the question-and-answer portion of the debate elicited the most reaction, thanks to candidates’ exorbitant promises and guarantees.

To appeal to the women vote, Gilbert proposed free massages for women “at least once a week.”

Approval ensued.

So did Rankin’s suggestion to offer “unlimited wine.”

Candidates also tackled several pressing issues, including: what new law should be passed for Lutz?

Without hesitation, Rankin said, “No more construction.”

Gilbert advocated for a motorcycle ban “at least once a week” to keep Lutz peaceful.

Sherman instead focused her attention on the area’s economy — ensure 90 percent of Lutz businesses are locally owned.

Another hot-button topic was addressed: Canadian snowbirds sneaking into Lutz.

“Build a wall,” Rankin answered, assuredly.

“Laser beams,” Sherman said.

Gilbert, however, seemed more welcoming of northern migrants.

“Why not invest in a hockey team in Lutz?” he asked.

Other questions— “Why did the chicken cross the road?” and “Who’s the biggest liar?” also generated plenty of laughs throughout the debate.

The afternoon’s silliness was all done in an effort for candidates to drum up as much support as they could, hoping to raise as much money as possible for their “campaigns,” which ultimately go to benefitting several nonprofits and local organizations.

The annual Guv’na Race fundraiser continues through the Fourth of July weekend, where the winner is announced, and earns the coveted “sash” and honorary title from the prior year’s winner.

The race, which started in 1991, is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association.
It typically raises several thousand dollars for about 20 beneficiaries.

Dignitaries at Saturday’s event included volunteers from Steinbrenner High School, the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, and representatives from the Old Lutz School and the Lutz Civic Association.

For more information on getting involved or participating in Guv’na fundraising events, contact Greg Gilbert at (248) 444-7320 or , Jessica Sherman at (813) 362-1085 or , or Kori Rankin at (813) 476-3718 or .

Published May 24, 2017

Lutz Guv’na race debate set for May 20

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It’s campaign season again — in Lutz, that is.

The annual Lutz Guv’na Race is underway.

And, it kicks off with the 2017 Guv’na Debate on May 20 at the Old Lutz School, 18819 N. U.S. 41.

The event — which runs from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. — is free and open to the public.

Last year’s Lutz Guv’na candidates competed in several fun-filled activities, including a watermelon-eating contest. The annual Lutz Guv’na Race kicks off with the 2017 Guv’na Debate on May 20 at the Old Lutz School, 18819 N. U.S. 41. It runs from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
(File)

This year, three candidates will vie to raise the most money for their “campaigns,” with proceeds benefitting local nonprofits and community organizations.

Incumbent Guv’na Greg Gilbert, of Beef O’ Brady’s in Lutz, will square off against two first-time candidates: Kori Rankin from Kori Rankin Photography, and Jessica Sherman of Pinch A Penny in Lutz.

Throughout the fun-filled debate, the trio will field jocular questions from audience members and partake in other quirky activities, hoping to raise money for a good cause.

The event’s emcee will again be Paul Vahue of First Baptist Church in Lutz.

Attendees, meanwhile, can attach themselves to a candidate to benefit their campaigns; former Guv’na winner Stephanie Ensor of Flip Flop Embroidery Shoppe will offer a $100 campaign donation to the candidate who brings the most guests to the May 20 debate.

The annual charity event — which started in 1991— is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association.

“This is what makes a small town a small town,” said Suzin Carr, ambassador for the Lutz Guv’na Race.

It typically raises several thousand dollars for about 20 beneficiaries, including scout troops, the Old Lutz School and Friends of the Library.

“They make community spirit what it is,” Carr said, of the beneficiaries. “They make Lutz a nice place to live.”
More than $100,000 has been raised in the past decade alone.

“There’s some years that are less, and some years that are more, but the impact…on these small groups is huge,” said Carr.

Last year’s event, like the others before it, proved particularly entertaining, thanks to a makeshift bowling competition, costume and watermelon-eating contests, and a Donald Trump-masked mystery candidate.

Besides various tasks and challenges, the debate regularly features plenty of laughs, as candidates offer up tongue-in-cheek answers to “hot button” issues surrounding Lutz.

The race continues through the Fourth of July weekend, where the winner is announced, and earns the coveted “sash” from the prior year’s winner.

The winner also typically earmarks 10 percent of what he or she raises to the organization of their choice.

Carr, a former two-time winner of the Guv’na Race, is actively seeking additional community involvement and volunteers for the Guv’na festivities.

“We want bodies out there,” she said. “When people don’t come out and support these kinds of programs, they die…and we certainly don’t want to see that.”

For more information, contact Carr at (813) 453-5256.

Published May 10, 2017