By Marcia Stone
After six years of having a summer party, long-time Land O’ Lakes resident Gary “Cuz” Mincin learned he had prostate cancer and decided to try to raise funds for the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center.
The first fundraiser brought in $460. The next year, the Krewe of Blackbeard’s Revenge joined in and matched Mincin’s $900, for a total of $1,800.
Mincin and the Krewe worked tirelessly to put together this year’s event, and $3,600 was raised.
Guests brought a favorite dish to add to the endless and fabulous feast. Entertainment by local groups included Allen-Griffin, Dead Man’s Rodeo and Smoke N Run. Local establishments including Wolf’s Den, Village Inn, Westshore Pizza, Tire Kingdom, Uptown Pizza, Pizza Villa, Benedetto’s, Texas Roadhouse and several others donated raffle prizes.
The grand prizes included four guitars, including several autographed by Kid Rock, Tom Petty, Jimmy Page and the band Seven Dust. Land O’ Lakes resident Steve Wallace won the Kid Rock guitar.
A heated swimming pool and a fireworks show added to the event.
Krewe members Jean “Eliza Dagger” White and Cheryl Stewart worked the audience raising the donations even higher.
Mincin said he is overwhelmed at how large his private event has become, and added that many cancer survivors attend. Numerous people give their time and labor, and Mincin said he wishes to thank all of them.
Next year’s goal is $5,000, and Mincin is now contemplating a fall event to help support All Children’s Hospital.
