Spring Lake Methodist Church marks the onset of spring with a joyful celebration, recognizing the efforts of those who nurture its abundant harvests. And in the process, they plan to bring their own bounty of nutritious food to people in need in Hernando County.
Spring Lake Methodist Church presents their second Annual FARM-A-GANZA & Food Drive Saturday, April 6th. Scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this event will take place behind Spring Lake Community Center at 4184 Spring Lake Hwy., Brooksville. FARM-A-GANZA will feature a farmers market, flea market, baked goods, plant sale, music, antique farm equipment/tractors, assorted local vendors and great food.
“This event is all about raising community spirit and bringing the community together,” explained Debbie Jarmon, church administrator. “It’s an old-school fun event meant to make people happy.”
Also at the event, the church will host a “food drive,” with guests encouraged to drop off canned goods or boxed goods or make a donation at the Spring Lake Methodist Church Food Pantry tent anytime during the event.
“For the past three years, the church has operated a food pantry that serves 75 to 110 people per week,” said Jarmon. “Families up to five or six. We are looking to increase the number of donations we take in for them this year, including microwaveable meals, meats, eggs, milks, cheeses, canned goods, and all healthy foods with solid expiration dates.”
In addition, the Farmers Market will offer freshly made and homegrown goodies for sale. “Our local growers and farmers will be offering coffees, teas, jellies, salsa, and a variety of baked goods,” said Jarmon.
Also available will be locally created treasures from artisans and fine craftspeople. “We’ll have an exhibit of antique quilts, and offer handmade jewelry and woodcarvings for sale,” said Jarmon.
The centerpiece of FARM-A-GANZA will be a curated display of antique cars, trucks and farm equipment. “This event is a celebration of agriculture and farm life,” said Jarmon. “People love to see the vintage John Deere equipment in particular.”
The Sheriff’s Mounted Posse and animal control will be in attendance, with the latter offering animals up for adoption. Live music will be performed that day, courtesy of Jeremy Barnett, Christian singer, songwriter, and founder of the Glory Ranch, and others. “The music will be country Christian in flavor,” said Jarmon.
Kids can enjoy a petting zoo at FARM-A-GANZA, and all can enjoy a special breakfast gathering planned in conjunction with the event. Spring Lake Community Center and Museum will be hosting their annual pancake and omelet breakfast from 7:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Guests will have a choice of plain or blueberry pancakes, omelets made to order (with sausage, veggies and cheese), coffee, tea and orange juice. The price is $10 per person. All proceeds benefit the Community Center & Museum. “This is a collaboration between our two groups,” said Jarmon, “for the benefit of both.”
Those interested in being vendors and exhibitors at FARM-A-GANZA can call 352-799-7028 or write [email protected].
