The holidays are fast approaching, and many celebrations are going on at Grand Horizons.
We started off with a Christmas luncheon for the women at The Cheesecake Factory in Brandon on Dec. 2. The luncheon was hosted by Joyce Bell, and it certainly was done to perfection.
(Courtesy of Helene Rubenstein)
We had gone to The Cheesecake Factory before, and this was the perfect place to welcome in the holidays. It has an extensive menu and something for everyone’s taste. The waiters were very helpful with the menu.
There were 15 of us who gathered for the holiday luncheon, and we all sat on the covered patio where we got fresh air. At one point, we were the only ones outside, so we could converse with each other without interrupting anyone.
We had pictures taken, and everyone had a good time.
There were many cheesecakes, and they all looked good enough to eat or take home. Some of the women did bring home a good part of their meal so they could once again enjoy The Cheesecake Factory.
Several of the women came early so they could do some shopping. All in all, it was a lovely day.
In addition to the luncheon, Grand Horizons’ Christmas project this year was Meals on Wheels. So, instead of gifts being exchanged during the party, donations to this worthy cause were accepted.
Meals on Wheels delivers nutritional meals to the homes of Zephyrhills senior citizens whose mobility is limited. The entire community is involved to show their support.
Joyce Bell is the coordinator of this venture, and she is doing a splendid job. Our thanks go out to her.
We had our annual golf cart parade on Dec. 6. The parade that circles every home in our development was led by last year’s winners, Vic and Lynn Dyson. They also were the judges for this year.
We were not there, but if the golf carts or people were decorated like last year, then I know the judges had quite a job to do.
Cheryl Leone said there were three winners. First place went to Don and Diane Collins; second place to Paul and Carolyn Ray; and third place went to Rich and Jean Lydecker.
From what Joyce Bell said, there were 16 golf carts in the parade with several of the carts to be judged. All the golf carts, I was told, were cheerfully decorated.
Some had Santas on the top of the cart, while others played Christmas music and so much more.
Several of the residents who were passengers or drivers of the golf carts wore costumes that were festive to the season. Once the parade was completed, all the residents met in the community center where baked goods were supplied by the residents.
Approximately 75 to 100 people attended.
There was hot chocolate and other drinks to celebrate the holidays. Entertainment was supplied by Loris Weber on the piano, and everyone sang Christmas carols. It was a night to remember.
There was a special celebration at the community center Dec. 10 for Marie Paolantonio’s 80th birthday. Marie was on cloud nine and was so excited.
Several of her friends from inside the park and a few from outside the park — plus family — were invited to a birthday bash presented to Marie by her children, Sal and Lynn Paolantonio.
There was a nice size crowd of approximately 40 to 45 people. From what I understand, Sal couldn’t keep this a secret as in the past he had tried several times to surprise his mom, but found it impossible. So he ended up telling her not to make plans for this day. What else could he have done?
Many pictures were taken of the birthday girl and guests. There was plenty of food and so much cake. It was a lovely affair.
Loris Weber played “Happy Birthday” on the piano while everyone joined in singing the song.
By Helene Rubenstein
Published December 24, 2014
