Pictured: Lake County Leaders
by Chuck Seaver, South Lake Tablet
 
The City of Mascotte opened a year-long celebration in honor of the city’s 100th birthday on Saturday, January 19th. The Centennial celebration began with a parade at 10 am with Illa Mae Thomas as the Grand Marshall. Mrs. Thomas has been a lifelong resident of Mascotte, growing up and residing on North Sunset Avenue her entire life. Mrs. Thomas reflected with a smile on her attendance at the 50th, 75th, and now the 100th year celebration of a town that she has seen grow so much during her lifetime. Mrs. Thomas’ husband, Fred Thomas, served as the Mayor of Mascotte for nearly a quarter of a century with his first term beginning in 1958.
 

The celebration continued with a “Mascotte in the Past” celebration at the Mascotte Civic Center on North Sunset Avenue. The celebration kicked off with a welcome message from Mayor Steven Sheffield. In his presentation, Mayor Sheffield shared a reflection on the rich history of the city. “One hundred years ago, Mascotte was founded with a vision of creating a place where families could grow, businesses could thrive, and neighbors could support one another. Over the decades, we’ve seen our city evolve, adapting to the changing times while holding tight to the values that have made us who we are today – community, resilience, and a deep love for our beautiful Florida surroundings,” said Sheffield.

 

Entertainment for all ages included displays with local vendors, along with trackless train rides around the complex. Bounce houses, petting zoos, interactive performers provided by Orlando Youth Circus, and face painting booths surrounded the pavilion that provided a historical glimpse of yesteryear Mascotte. Public safety displays included the Lake County Fire Department’s “Randy” fire engine, affectionately named in honor of longtime Mascotte Fire Chief Randy Brasher.

 

Along with plenty of food options and games for all ages, the crowd was entertained by theAmerican Bombshells, a trio of singers who perform USO-style shows for the military, veterans, and first responders. The Bombshells not only provide great entertainment, but the non-profit organization also provides programs that provide service dogs for veterans with PTSD, suit drives for transitioning veterans, and many other services to our Nations heroes.

The year-long celebration, which includes the unveiling of a new city logo designed by Sasha Grossi, Mascotte Assistant City Clerk, will consist of two more festivities planned for June 21st  with a theme of “Mascotte in the Present” and November 18th as “Mascotte in the Future”.

Please visit www.CityofMascotte.com for a full listing of events, meeting schedules, and city celebration information.

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