Health & Fitness
Shiver Me Sarasota
Not to be outdone by swashbuckling neighbors to the north, Sarasotans went overboard to have fun last weekend with their own Pirate Fest at The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods.
As thousands of Gasparilla goers walked the plank in Tampa Bay last Saturday, closer to home residents of The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods shivered their timbers with their own version of a pirate fest. Eye patches, bandanas, homemade pirate hats – even a cardboard boat – added to the festive mood at the popular Sarasota retirement community.
Tampa’s Gasparilla Carnival may be a century-old tradition but this was the first local pirate fest celebrated by residents of The Inn, the assisted living neighborhood of The Fountains at Lake Pointe Woods. According to Sue Haag, Community Life Director for The Inn, the celebration was preceded by a fascinating educational session on the history of pirate Jose Gaspar and of Tampa’s annual celebration bearing his nickname.
“It was a great hit and we definitely have plans to repeat it,” said Haag. In fact, her oars are already churning. Next year, Haag plans to host themed activities throughout the week leading up to the Pirate Fest Finale.
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“We know that Gasparilla left behind treasures that have never been found. So make way mateys, next year watch for opportunities to discover a treasure chest right here at The Inn!”
Judging from Haag’s enthusiasm, it’s easy to see why Fountains residents are always going overboard to have fun. Aargh!
