Brooksville Woman's Club will sponsor its 12th annual Historic Tour of Homes in downtown Brooksville Dec. 11. The tour will begin at the city parking lot on South Main Street, off Broad Street; and tours will be conducted at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Three homes will be shown, and hot apple cider and cookies will be served at the Woman's Club clubhouse. Ticket donation is $12 per person, and the public is welcome. For tickets or information, call Yvonne at (352) 796-6026.
AAA Auto Club South will offer free photos with Santa and a goody bag from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 16 at its office at 1410 Pinehurst Drive, in the Hernando West Plaza, intersection of Spring Hill Drive and U.S. 19, Spring Hill. The public is welcome. For information, call Allison Haygood, event coordinator, at (352) 683-3446, ext. 2236.
Jesus and Me Ministries (J.A.M.) will hold its "Gift of Love" christmas flowers italy Party from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Dec. 22 at the Jerome Brown Community Center, 99 Jerome Brown Place, off Darby Lane, adjacent Tom Varn Park, Brooksville. To participate in the event, the deadline is Dec. 13 for parents to call (352) 345-7285 with the information for their child or children such as name, age, gender, and one gift each child wants for christmas flowers italy blogs .
To provide the party for 100-plus children of the community with a gift, food, music, Santa and more, the ministry is in need of gifts, wrapping paper, toys, clothing, bicycles, books, movie tickets, gift cards from Walmart and Game Stop – any gift that can be given to a boy or girl from newborn to age 17. "Gift of Love" donations can be dropped off at 419 Howell Ave., across from First Baptist Church, or at the community center; and the deadline is noon Dec. 22. The gifts will be wrapped from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that day. The gift giver, the children and their family are invited to attend the event. If interested in donating a "Gift of Love," call the ministry at (352) 345-7285 on Dec. 14 to be matched with a child or family.
Monster Transmission is conducting a month-long promotion to help raise funds for Joseph's House in Brooksville. For every transmission that is sold within the state of Florida during December, Monster Transmission will donate $100 directly to the $10,000 renovation grant that Joseph's House is currently working toward completing. Their goal is to reach $10,000 by the deadline for the grant of Jan. 1, 2012. The grant will help with major renovations of Joseph's House, which deploys mobile units that provide hot meals, clothing, food and referrals to the needy in Brooksville. For information, call (800) 708-0087 or email nancy@monstertrans.com
The City of Brooksville Parks, Facilities and Recreation Department will conduct a Christmas Holiday Supplies Giveaway Day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Jerome Brown Community Center, 99 Jerome Brown Place, off Darby Lane, adjacent Tom Varn Park, Brooksville. Since a local Walmart donated numerous supplies, in-need families will receive such items as tree stands, greeting cards, bows, wrapping paper and much more this holiday season. There will be a five-item limit for each family, and it is requested that only those in need take advantage of the giveaway. For information, call the recreation department at (352) 540-3835.
VFW Post 9236 Ladies Auxiliary will sponsor a bake sale and gift-wrapping session from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 17 at the post at 3435 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach. Games and entertainment for children will be featured. For information, call the post at (352) 596-9236.
High Point Community Christmas dance will be held from 7 to 10 p.m. Dec. 17 at its clubhouse, 12249 Clubhouse Road, Brooksville. Music will be provided by Kevin and the Vocal Cords. BYOB, but coffee and ice will be complimentary. The cost is $5 per person, and tickets can be purchased at the door. For tickets and table reservations, call (352) 596-2827. In addition, the community will hold a New Year's event from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Dec. 31 at its clubhouse. Doors will open at 8:30 p.m. A hot snack tray will be served at each table and a bottle of champagne will be served at 10:30 p.m. coffee and sweets will also be available. The cost is $20 per person, and reservations are required. For tickets and table reservations, call (352) 596-6006.
Brooksville Regional Hospital Auxiliary will host a holiday clearance sale from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 19 in the cafeteria of the hospital at 17240 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Toys, books, games, small household and hardware items, educational items, outdoor activities, stationary and more will be featured. For information, call Pam at (352) 442-0169.
Computer club
Hernando Computer Club will present "Skyping for Christmas" by Brigitte Haag at 10 a.m. and "Using Email" by Joann Frucchione at 1 p.m., both Dec. 9 in the North Room at the Education B building of Grace Presbyterian Church, 8375 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Lecture classes do not require registration, but hands-on classes require preregistration. The cost for lecture classes of the club is $2 per person. The public is welcome. In addition, the club is offering one-to-one tutoring. Members wanting to learn a specific task can call the club with their request. Holger Bruning will then schedule an appointment for the desired topic. The cost is $10, and the session can be up to two hours. For information, visit www.hcc.org or call the club at (352) 684-7171.
Library programs
Brooksville Book Discussion Group will meet at 6 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Main Library, 238 Howell Ave., Brooksville. The topic of conversation will be "The House of Mirth" by Edith Wharton. The sad but brilliant commentary is on the closed, repressive society of the rich upper class – New York nobility – at the dawn of the 20th century. Registration is not required, but copies of the book are limited. Call your local library to reserve a copy. New members are welcome. For information, call (352) 540-6391.
Community
SHARP Crime Watch members will meet at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 at the Senior Citizens Club of Hernando County, 7925 Rhanbuoy Road, Spring Hill. A Christmas dinner party will follow the meeting. Attendees are requested to bring a new-unwrapped toy for a boy or girl for the Marine Corp toy drive. For information, call (352) 683-5936.
Hernando County La Sertoma Club will meet at 11 a.m. Jan. 2 at Guido's Pizza Cafe, 7219 Forest Oaks Blvd., just off U.S. 19, Spring Hill. La Sertoma is dedicated to youth service recognition, fundraising for scholarships for needy and deserving college students, as well as special holiday events for special needs children. Guests are welcome. For information, call Laverne at (352) 796-4657.
Brooksville Rotary Club meets at noon every Tuesday at the Brooksville Country Club, 23446 Links Drive, off Croom Road, Brooksville. Members of Rotary are devoted to helping the local, national, and international community via charity events and volunteerism. Local organizations supported include New Beginnings Youth Shelter, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, Hernando County Fair and more. For information, visit www.brooksvillerotary.org or call Terry Weaver at (352) 796-9891.
Kiwanis Club of Spring Hill meets from noon to 1 p.m. every Tuesday at the Atria Evergreen Woods pool house, 7030 Evergreen Woods Trail, off State Road 50, Spring Hill. For information on upcoming events and speaker opportunities, visit www.springhillkiwanis.org or call Dennis McKenna at (352) 584-7023.
Kiwanis Club of the Nature Coast meets from 6 to 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of the month at IHOP, 3636 Commercial Way, Spring Hill. The event is a dinner meeting with meals ordered from the menu. For information, call Scott Edmisten at (352) 346-2515.
Arts/Crafts
Hernando County Fine Arts Council will host an exhibit reception at 6 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Mining Association Enrichment Center, 800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd., Brooksville. The exhibit is entitled "Prints and Engravings, Arts for the Masses" and is a private collection of prints, lithographs and engravings from the 16th to 20th century including hand-colored engravings and lithographs of the works of Holbein from the Windsor Castle collection, Gould bird prints and many others. The collection is on loan from HCFAC board member Roger Sherman of Garden Grove and will be available for viewing through the Christmas season. For information, call Jerry Cowling, HCFAC chairman, at (352) 797-0984.
Spring Hill Art League will hold a reception for local artist Valdora Ward from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 17 at Easy Street Home Decor, 100 N. Brooksville Ave., Brooksville. Refreshments will be served. The artist's work will be on display during December. The event is free, and the public is invited. For information, call Sandra LaValley at (352) 799-9690 or visit www.springhillartleague.com.
Suncoast Ship Model Society will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. Dec. 15 at the Weeki Wachee Senior Citizens Club, corner of Toucan Trail and Susan Drive, Spring Hill. All modelers interested in building model ships and boats are invited. For information, call Jim at (352) 592-6419.
Weeki Wachee Woodcarvers Association meets from 7 to 9 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Weeki Wachee Senior Center located at the corner of Susan Drive and Toucan Trail, Spring Hill. Demonstrations of all aspects of carving are presented, and the club consists of carvers from novice to master. Members share ideas and advice with whomever might need it; and socializing, dessert and coffee are also featured. Anyone interested in woodcarving or its related activities (painting, burning, mounting, environment, etc.) is invited to attend. Annual membership dues are $15 per person, and membership applications are available at club meetings. Guests are welcome, and all ages can participate. For information, call George Lytle at (352) 666-5092 or Mike Rice at (352) 683-9087.
Public meeting
South Brooksville Community Economic Development Commission will hold a community meeting from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at the Fredrick Kelly Elks Lodge, 510 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Brooksville. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss economic development concerns, issues and opportunities. For information, call Richard Howell at (352) 476-7414.
Political
Wellington Democrats will meet at 2 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Wellington at Seven Hills Clubhouse, 400 Wexford Blvd., off Mariner Boulevard, Spring Hill. General meeting and planning discussion will be featured. For information, contact Gene Ehrich at WellingtonDemocrats@gmail.com.
State clubs
Maine Club will meet at noon Dec. 9 at the Spring Hill Community Center (Lake House), 1202 Kenlake Ave., Spring Hill. Those that signed up to bring something for the dinner are reminded to bring it; all others just need to bring own place setting. The club meets the second Friday of the month from November through April, and all current and former residents of Maine are welcome. For information, call (352) 592-0741.
Wisconsin Club will celebrate its annual Christmas party at 3:30 p.m. Dec. 10 at Sam Seltzer's Restaurant in Port Richey. Following the party, the club will enjoy a cruise on the Miss Daisy River Boat in New Port Richey to view Christmas lights. The club also offers monthly travel opportunities. On Jan. 23, the club has scheduled a four-day bus trip to Biloxi, Miss. Annual dues are $10 per person, and either spouse having lived in Wisconsin qualifies membership for both. For information or to book a trip, call Carolee at (352) 666-2974.
New York State Club will meet at 5 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Knights of Columbus, 10470 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Dinner will be served following the meeting. For dinner tickets, call Carolyn at (352) 684-6979. Bowling for fun is held at 11 a.m. every Monday at Spring Hill Lanes, 3447 U.S. 19, Spring Hill. For information, call Marge at (352) 686-8015.
Social
Elks Lodge 2582 will hold its steak shoot from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 10 in the lounge of the lodge, 14494 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Members and guests will have the opportunity to win steaks by participating in a bingo-type card game. Bonus and grand bonus meats can be won. Karaoke will start at 5 p.m., and a spaghetti dinner will follow from 5 to 6 p.m. Also, the lodge serves lunch from noon to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday, with 11 items being offered which include fries. Take-out is available. Members and guests are welcome. For information, call the lodge at (352) 596-2582.
Grace Presbyterian Women's Gathering will be held at 1 p.m. Dec. 12 in the fellowship hall of Grace Presbyterian Church, 8375 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. A Christmas message will be given by Rev. Neil Spaulding, and Christmas music will be by the Dade City Children's Choir. The hostess will be the Naomi Circle. For information, call (352) 683-2082.
Long Island Club will meet at 11 a.m. Dec. 21 at St. Stephen's Parish Hall, 5326 Charles St., New Port Richey. Coffee and cake will be served prior to the meeting. For information, call Vinny Scatturo at (727) 869-0043.
Sons of Italy, Nature Coast Lodge 2502, Order of Italy of America, holds a monthly dinner/business meeting the third Thursday; a "social night" at a local restaurant monthly on the first Wednesday; three yearly dinner-dances; St. Joseph Day and an annual picnic. The lodge supports local charities and sponsors bowling, bocce, Italian culture and classes, and yearly trips. Membership is open to all; it is not necessary to be of Italian heritage. For information, call Eugene at (352) 684-7460 or Rose at (352) 796-7714.
Latinos Unidos Social Club of Spring Hill opens at 7 p.m. every Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at its facility in the Starck Plaza, 12528 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. Bingo, dominos, cards, billiard table, music and a cash bar are featured. Membership is open to the public. For information, call Jenny Mojica at (352) 688-1022.
Seniors
AARP Chapter 5445, Hernando County West, will meet Dec. 12 at Nina's Cucina, 1427 Kass Circle, Spring Hill. The meeting will begin at noon, but plan to arrive at 11:30 a.m. Featured speaker will be Jeffris Livingston of the AARP Speakers Bureau on the topic "Protecting our Social Security – what's next?" In addition, identical meetings will be held Dec. 21 at IHOP, 3660 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, and Dec. 30 at Elks Lodge 2582, 14494 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Since seating is limited, reservations are required. Members and newcomers are invited. For reservations or information, call Bob Williams at (352) 596-0722.
NARVRE (National Association for Retired Veteran Railroad Employees) will meet for lunch at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 14 at Silverthorn Country Club, 4550 Golf Club Lane, off Barclay Avenue, Spring Hill. Speaker will be from Hospice on the topic of care for children who are ill. Lunch cost will be $10 per person. NARVRE is dedicated to preserving the Railroad Retirement System. All retired and active railroad workers and their spouses are welcome. For information, call Lynn at (352) 796-0477.
AARP Hernando County East Chapter 1026 will meet for its annual Christmas celebration/show at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 15 at Country Kitchen, 20133 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Chapter members Paul and Irene Griffin will perform. The Griffins were members of Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians. Paul Griffin played lead trumpet with the group along with Tom Jones, Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Mathis, The Temptations, Frankie Lane and many more. Reservations are required, and all seniors are welcome. For reservations or information, call Steve Mattingly at (352) 754-9404 or Kathy Casey at (352) 428-2368.
Genealogy
Genealogy Interest Group will meet at 10 a.m. Dec. 13 at the West Hernando Branch Library, 6335 Blackbird Ave., off State Road 50, Brooksville. For information, call Kathleen Marsh at (352) 796-1623.
Fraternal
St. Frances Cabrini Knights of Columbus 4th Degree Assembly 3022 will meet at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 13 in Xavier Hall of St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, 5030 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill. All 4th Degree members of the Knights of Columbus possessing a current 4th Degree membership card are welcome. For information, call Jack Hauser at (352) 686-9767.
Ethnic
German American Club will meet at 7 p.m. Jan. 5 at the Shriners Club of Hernando County, 13400 Montour St., off Sunshine Grove Road, Brooksville. New members are welcome, and it is not necessary to be German to be a member or attend. For information, call Jack Yaskulski at (352) 688-3744 or visit www.germanclubspringhill.org In addition, the club will hold a New Year's Eve dinner-dance Dec. 31 at the Shriners Club. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., with hors d'oeuvres from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. and dancing from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Music will be provided by Manni Daum, and required dress code will be semi-formal to formal attire. BYOB – a champagne toast and sandwiches will be featured at midnight. Ticket cost is $15 per person for members and $25 per person for guests, and tickets must be purchased in advance. For tickets or information, call Lisa Yaskulski at (352) 688-3744.
African American Club of Hernando County will hold a New Year's Eve party from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Dec. 31 at Regency Oaks Civic Association Center, 4445 Breakwater Blvd., off U.S. 19, Spring Hill. Hors d'oeuvres will be served as well as complimentary rum punch, ice, cups, party favors and champagne toast. Bring own drinks and New Year's food. Music will be provided by Mr. D, with photography by Darling & Darling Productions. Semi-formal attire is requested. Ticket cost will be $15 per person for members and $20 per person for non-members. For information, call Delores at (352) 799-7331, Ed at (352) 686-3284 or Sharon at (352) 683-7763.
Music/Dance
Spring Hill Domino Club will sponsor a singles dance party every Wednesday at its club, 15120 County Line Road, one-half mile west of Mariner Boulevard, Spring Hill. Free dance lessons will be held from 7 to 8 p.m., and open dancing with matching games and drawings will be held from 8 to 11 p.m. Music from the '50s, '60s, '70s and '80s will be featured. Snacks will be available and/or bring own snacks. The cost is $5 per person at the door. For information, call Nancy, Domino Club secretary, at (352) 346-6337.
High Point Community Ballroom Dance classes will be held every Wednesday at the High Point Community Center, 12249 Clubhouse Road, Brooksville. Beginner lessons will be held from 2 to 3 p.m., with intermediate/advanced lessons from 3 to 4 p.m. Instructor Bonnie Jordan welcomes anyone interested in learning the basics, as well as advanced dance routines. For information, call Bonnie at (352) 683-3699.
Hernando County Recreation Department offers "Tribal Belly Dancing" from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays as follows: Tuesdays at Springstead High School, 3300 Mariner Blvd., Spring Hill; and Thursdays at Kennedy Park, 895 Kennedy Blvd., Brooksville. Tribal belly dancing is a unique form of dance because of the dance steps and the ability to be improvisational. This form of dance is a melting pot of movements and attitudes taken from various dance cultures throughout the world. The instructor is Jayne Arrington, and prior dance experience is not necessary. The cost is $10 per class paid monthly or $9 per month for six weeks, or $15 for drop-ins. Advance registration is not required, and all ages are welcome. For information, call Jayne at (352) 540-1568 or the recreation department at (352) 754-4031 or visit www.hernandocounty.us/parks_rec.
Military/Veterans
VFW Post 9236 offers meals to the public at its post, 3435 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach, as follows: first Wednesday of the month, spaghetti is served from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at a cost of $6.50 per person; second Saturday of the month, steak, potato, veggie, salad bar, roll, coffee is served at a cost of $10 per person; third Friday of the month from 4 to 7 p.m.: fish $6, shrimp $6.50, combo $7.50; Sunday during football – the following will be served – wings 50 cents, hot dogs $1 and hamburgers $3.50; and last Sunday of the month, breakfast will be served from 9 to 11:30 a.m. for $7 per person. Featured entertainment will be as follows: Adrian Ray from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 10; and Southern Delight from 6 to 10 p.m. Dec. 17. For information, call the Post at (352) 596-9236.
Navy Seabee Veterans of America meets at 10 a.m. the third Saturday of every month at VFW Post 9236 at 3435 Shoal Line Blvd., Hernando Beach. For information, call (727) 488-0153.
VFW Post 1681 and Ladies Auxiliary holds bar bingo at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday; door prizes and snacks every Sunday; play the wheel game at 1 p.m.; and a complete breakfast from 9 to 11 a.m. the second Sunday of every month at the post, 1681 E. Jefferson St., Brooksville. For information, call the post at (352) 796-4449.
Marine Corps League, Spring Hill Detachment 708, holds a steak shoot from 1 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday at the Detachment located at 8405 Sunshine Grove Road, off State Road 50, Brooksville. The Leatherneck Lounge and Gunny's Galley will be open for the purchase of food and beverages. The Gunny's Galley serves Sunday breakfast from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.; lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday (Fridays only until 2 p.m.), plus pasta night from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays; wing and basket night from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays; and seafood night from 4 to 7 p.m. Fridays. The Leatherneck Lounge is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Daily specials are available from the Galley and the Lounge. The Detachment is open to all veterans and the public seven days a week. For information, call 352-597-7979 and ask for the lounge.
Recreation
Nature Coast Bridge Club offers bridge games at 12:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and Friday, and at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Senior Citizens Club, 7925 Rhanbuoy Road, Spring Hill. Games for all levels of players are offered as well as lessons for beginning to advanced players. Join the group for an afternoon or evening of competition and friendship. For a complete schedule of games and/or lessons, call Beverly Tillberry at (352) 556-3892 or Annabelle Hills at (352) 597-5221 or email hillsja@gate.net
Spring Hill Camera Club meets at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month at the Brooksville Enrichment Center, Medical Arts Building, Suite 120, of the Brooksville Regional Hospital campus, 17222 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Club business and an informative presentation are conducted on the second Monday, and a photo completion is judged each fourth Monday. Membership is open to all beginning and experienced film and digital photographers. For information, call Bill at (352) 556-3708 or visit www.springhillcameraclub.org.
Spring Hill Bocce Club meets at 7 a.m. every Tuesday and Friday at Delta Woods Park, 3400 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill. The club is accepting new members. Annual membership dues are $5 per person, and the club holds a tournament once a year. For information, call Lucky Todaro, club president, at (352) 596-3503.
Public speaking
Nature Coast Orators Toastmasters Club, a member of Toastmaster International, meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Wednesday at Brooksville Regional Hospital's Enrichment Center in the Medical Arts Building, Room 120, 17222 Hospital Blvd., off State Road 50, Brooksville. Members learn communication skills by following a series of 10 self-paced speaking assignments designed to instill a basic foundation in public speaking. Participants learn skills related to the use of humor, gestures, eye contact, speech organization and overall delivery in addition to leadership skills. For information, call Terry Weaver at (352) 796-9891.
Volunteers
Humane Society of the Nature Coast is celebrating a 30 percent increase in adoptions over the last two years. The staff, volunteers and board of directors of the Humane Society attribute the increase to a special "Dedicated Dog Walker" program. The program is conducted by volunteers who visit the shelter and give the animals the opportunity to learn standard domesticated skills and habits. Anyone who would like to volunteer as a dedicated dog walker should call the Humane Society of the Nature Coast at (352) 796-2711 or visit www.HumaneRescue.org and click on "Volunteer."
Hernando County Animal Services is recruiting volunteers who are interested in helping to save the lives of animals. Openings are available for rescue coordinators, lost and found advocates, pet adoption advocates, and pet photographers. Anyone who loves animals and has time to donate should visit the county's web site at www.hernandocounty.us/code/animal/ to view job descriptions and complete a volunteer application. Volunteers might be subject to background checks and fingerprinting. For information, call (352) 796-5062.
Community outreach
DayStar Life Center food pantry will provide food to help families every month through Jan. 1, 2012 at its facility, 7120 Hope Hill Road, off State Road 50, behind St. Anthony Catholic Church, Brooksville. For example, the food pantry provides a family of four – meat, butter, bread, pastries and nonperishable items that equal 37 pounds of food. In addition, DayStar is seeking volunteers to donate a few hours a week. There are several different volunteer areas of the facility including the food pantry, clothing thrift store, and several other thrift store areas. DayStar is also in need of volunteers to drive its trucks and additional help for donation pick-up service. For information, call DayStar at (352) 799-5930 or visit www.daystarlifecenter.org
People Helping People is seeking groups, large or small, to prepare an entrée for one of its Sunday dinners. PHP will help volunteers through the process. Donations are also always needed. People Helping People serves a free meal to the homeless and the very needy in the community from 4 to 5:30 p.m. every Sunday at the Senior Citizens Center of Hernando County, 7925 Rhanbuoy Road, Spring Hill. In addition, PHP offers free bread and groceries, clothing and referrals to help other organizations. Its Blessings in a Backpack program provides food for 200 elementary students at four local schools for the entire school year. For information, call (352) 686-4466. To donate, send to People Helping People, P.O. Box 6182, Spring Hill, Fla. 34611 or visit www.phpinhc.org
Jericho Road Ministries is seeking volunteers to help provide food supplies to the poor, elderly and homeless people of Hernando County. Jericho is facing extra pressure because of the growing numbers of unemployed and homeless. Volunteer helpers are needed at its food distribution location at Mary's House in Brooksville. To be scheduled to help part time, once a week from 9 a.m. to noon, call Joe LaGuardia at (352) 593-7792 or (352) 799-2912 Ext. 104.
St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church serves its "In His Footsteps" soup-and-sandwich outreach program lunch for those in need from noon to 2 p.m. the second Thursday of every month in the Parish Hall of the church, 13485 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. For information, call the church office at (352) 688-0663.
Donation Station, an outreach of Love Your Neighbor Christian Outreach, announces renovation and new hours. Donation Station is a "pay what you can" distribution center and food pantry organized to supplement the needs of the less fortunate in the community. The facility at 408 W. Jefferson St. has been recently renovated and will be open the following hours: from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. The organization welcomes donations and is currently in need of small appliances, dishes, bedding, towels, etc. Love Your Neighbor provides a free community dinner from 2 to 4 p.m. every Sunday at First United Methodist Church, 109 S. Broad St., Brooksville. For information, call Lisa at (352) 428-9275 or (352) 848-0090.
First United Methodist Church is starting a new soup kitchen serving a hot, nutritious meal from 4:30 to 6 p.m. every Tuesday at the church, 9344 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. The meal is for all those in need. For information, call (352) 683-2600 Ext. 1.
Christian Life Assembly of God announces the opening of its food pantry to the community. Hours of operation will be from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Tuesday at the church, 13065 Jacqueline Road, Brooksville. The free program is offered to residents of the county who, whatever their circumstances, are in need of assistance with food. For information, call (352) 597-1139.
St. Andrew's Episcopal Church will conduct a free bread and pastries giveaway for those in need from 9 to 10 a.m. every Saturday in the Parish Hall (side entrance) of the church, 2301 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill. For information, call (352) 683-2010.
Christ the King Full Gospel Worship Center will conduct a food and bread items giveaway for families in need from 10 a.m. to noon every Monday at the worship center, 5111 U.S. 19, Spring Hill. No requirements, other than I.D. Tammy Bennett is in charge of the ministry. For information, call (352) 596-5366.
Youth
Nature Coast Children's Chorale is gearing up for its fourth year in Hernando County. The chorale is open to children in grades 4-12 and meets weekly on Thursday evenings at Powell Middle School, 4100 Barclay Ave., Brooksville. The chorale has performed the last two years at Carnegie Hall in New York City and at the St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans. If your child loves to sing, schedule an audition by calling (352) 403-8437 or emailing naturecoastcc@tampabay.rr.com
City of Brooksville's Recreation Department will offer a "Play to Learn" indoor toddler program from 10 to 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday at the Jerome Brown Community Center, 99 Jerome Brown Place, off Darby Lane, Brooksville. The cost is $3 per class and is for toddlers ages 1-5 and their moms. For information, call the Recreation Department at (352) 540-3835.
Boys & Girls Clubs are conducting a Car Campaign program to help underwrite its youth programs. Donations of unwanted cars are being sought, and cars do not need to be in running condition. To donate a car or for information, call 800-246-0493.
Sales/Flea markets
Brooksville Farmers Market will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday along Main Street in front of the Hernando County Courthouse in downtown Brooksville. Local vendors, produce, crafts, food, dog treats, jewelry, honey and more will be featured. If interested in becoming a vendor or for information, call (352) 428-9275.
Coupon Swap is held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday during the flea market at the Hernando County Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St. (U.S. 41), Brooksville. Bring unwanted coupons and swap them for sought-after ones that might be available. If not interested in swapping but are willing to donate unwanted coupons, bring them to the flea market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday or Sunday. Also, expired coupons (up to two months) will be accepted to be mailed overseas to military families. For information, contact Angela via email at okrasin@tampabay.rr.com or call (352) 584-5773.
Music
Hernando Hills Hi-Lites will meet for rehearsal at 7 p.m. every Monday at Fellowship Community Church, 11250 Spring Hill Drive, Spring Hill. The women's chorus invites women of all races and creeds who can carry a tune and love to sing. The chorus sings a cappella, four-part harmony. The Hi-Lites perform at many community functions, as well as private celebrations and are members of Harmony, Inc., an organization of over 20,000 outstanding women, and compete at area and international levels. For information, call Tessie at (352) 686-4122.
Hernando Harmonizers has openings for singers. Men who love to sing are invited to join the Hernando Harmonizers of the Barbershop Harmony Society every Monday at Nativity Lutheran Church, 6363 Commercial Way, just north of the intersection of State Road 50 and U.S. 19, Weeki Wachee. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., and singing begins at 7 p.m. Singers have an opportunity to participate in community performances, annual show, competitions, etc. Guests are requested to call (352) 556-3936 prior to planning a visit. For information, visit its website at www.HernandoHarmonizers.org
Accordion Adventure will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at Elks Lodge 2582, 14494 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. The informal group consists of accordionists that are enthusiasts of all levels of performance. Admission will be $2 per person, and the public is welcome. For information, call Cathy at (352) 686-0975 or Peg at (352) 442-5574.
Spring Hill Acoustic Guitar Club meets from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesday of every month for a jam and song circle. All styles are welcome at all playing levels. The club's goal is to play together, have fun doing it and to provide encouragement and support for each other in an effort to become better players. Also, the club is available to perform at nonprofit and social club events. For information, call Curt at (352) 666-3951 or Ken at (352) 684-6789.
Radio clubs
Gulf Coast Amateur Radio Club meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at the Gulf Coast Amateur Radio Club clubhouse, 6909 Tierra Verde St., Port Richey. All HAM radio operators and those interested in HAM radio and emergency communications are welcome and encouraged to attend. Join the group during its club radio net at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday nights on the club's repeater WA4GDN, 146.670 MHz. For information, call Bill at (727) 869-0784.
Spring Hill Amateur Radio Club (SHARC) meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of every month at the Oak Hill Hospital Partner's Club, 11375 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville. Anyone interested in Ham Radio is welcome to attend. Testing for an FCC license is conducted at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at the same location. The club operates a 2-meter repeater on 146.805 MHz (no tone). Every Tuesday the club conducts two nets: a SKYWARN Weather Net at 7:15 p.m. and a Club net at 7:30 p.m. Anyone with a Ham Radio license is welcome to participate in both nets and attend monthly meetings. For club information, visit www.kf4ixu.org or call Dave KB3GYN at (352) 684-3925.
Crime Watch
SHARP Crime Watch is seeking day and night dispatchers and patrollers. SHARP Crime Watch has been in existence for 28 years watching over the Spring Hill area. Patrollers are provided with radios and patrols his or her own area. Dispatchers keep close contact with the Sheriff's Department, Animal Services, Road Department, Code Enforcement, etc. SHARP makes daily calls to the elderly who live alone and will also watch someone's home when the residents are out of town. If interested in volunteering, attend the monthly meeting at 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Senior Citizens Club of Hernando County, 7925 Rhanbuoy Road, Spring Hill or call (352) 683-5936 or email scrimewatch@tampabay.rr.com
Seniors activities
Senior Citizens Club of Hernando County offers the following activities at the hall located at 7925 Rhanbuoy Road, Spring Hill: bingo will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday, and card games are held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Monday and Thursday. For information, call Barbara at (352) 683-2440. For information regarding crafts, line dancing and Weight Watchers, call the club at (352) 596-1095. Group road trips such as Biloxi, Sterling and Hard Rock plus cruises are periodically arranged for members and their guests. The club is for those 55 years of age and older, and club membership is $25 annually. For information, call the club at (352) 596-1095.
Seniors programs
Mid-Florida Community Services provides nutritious meals year-round to seniors age 60 and over. Seniors are welcome to visit any one of its four dining sites within the county. In addition, the Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious lunches five days a week to seniors who are homebound. The daily contact by the program's volunteers ensures a visit by someone who provides companionship, while checking on the person's health and well being. Volunteers are welcome, and donations are appreciated. For information, call (352) 796-1425 or (352) 796-0485.
Experience Works, a senior work force solution, provides information and assistance with employment and training to income eligible seniors age 55 and older. For information, call Amy at (352) 200-3042.
Thrift shops
Jericho Road Ministries has a thrift store in the Winchester Plaza, 5260 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, in addition to its other stores, 16479 Wiscon Road, Brooksville, and in the Sunrise Plaza at 31170 Cortez Blvd., Ridge Manor. All stores are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Clothing for adults and children, household items, furniture, kitchenware, toys, as well as numerous specialty items are available for sale. The Ministry has a women's shelter, Mary's House, 1163 Howell Ave., Brooksville. The thrift stores were established for the purpose of supporting the Jericho Road Men's Rescue Mission Shelter, 1090 Mondon Hill Road, Brooksville. Donations are welcome and can be brought to any of the thrift stores during business hours or larger items can be scheduled for pick-up daily. For information or to schedule a pick-up, call (352) 797-9009.
SPCA Thrift Shop, 9075 Grant St., adjacent to the shelter, Brooksville, is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Housewares, books, games, toys and clothing for the entire family are featured. All clothes are $5 a bag. All proceeds from the thrift shop benefit the care and upkeep of the animals at the shelter. Donations are welcome and can be dropped off from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursdays or Fridays, but large furniture or appliances cannot be accepted. To reach the SPCA shelter and thrift shop, take Sunshine Grove Road (off State Road 50) to Taylor Street, then turn left onto Grant Street. For information, call the thrift shop at (352) 540-5727.
Also, the SPCA is seeking volunteers to provide companionship and assist in the care of the dogs and cats at the shelter. Day and hours are flexible. For information, call the shelter at (352) 596-7000. In addition, the SPCA of Hernando County is seeking a clinical microscope in an effort to reduce operating costs of the no-kill animal shelter. To donate a microscope, call (352) 596-7000.
Habitat for Humanity Thrift Store, 19450 Cortez Blvd., in the Brooksville Square Shopping Center, Brooksville, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Clothing for adults and children, furniture, household items, kitchenware, books and a holiday room are featured. Donations are welcome and can be delivered to the thrift store during business hours. Larger items can be picked up Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Volunteers are needed to work in the thrift store or on construction. Habitat established the thrift store to support the construction of decent and affordable Habitat houses for low-income eligible individuals who are willing to partner in the building of someone else's home and their home. For information, call (352) 754-1159.
Daystar Life Center Thrift Shop has announced the Thursday opening of its clothing thrift shop at its facility, 7120 Hope Hill Road, off State Road 50, Brooksville. BOGO Day (buy one-get one free) will be featured, with the free clothing item being of equal or lesser value than the purchased clothing item. BOGO Day hours will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday. All of the Daystar Life Center thrift shops will be open from 8:30 a.m. to noon every Friday and Saturday including the clothing thrift shop. Furniture, housewares, books, small appliances, clothing, crafts, electrical items and a children's toy shop will be featured. The Daystar facility is a quarter mile behind St. Anthony Catholic Church. To schedule a pickup or for information, call (352) 799-5930 or visit www.daystarlifecenter.org.
Karen's Kit 'n Kaboodle (St. Andrew's Thrift Shop), 2301 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill, has a new furniture storage building offering a variety of furniture such as chairs, wall units, electric organs, artwork will be featured, including some sick room needs. The boutique-style shop is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. The shop features a $5 bag sale the second Tuesday of the month. Donations are appreciated and can be left in the shop during hours of operation or in the drop-off bin after hours. To volunteer or schedule pick-up of large items, call (352) 686-1114.
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