Hail to the 2026 Chasco Ball King & Queen
NEW PORT RICHEY, FL – March 23, 2026 — Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind is pleased to announce the 2026 King Pithla, Gary Gann, and Queen Chasco, Angie Gardner, who were crowned on March 20th at the 2026 Chasco Coronation Ball. The Ball celebrates the outstanding contributions made by members of our community through nominations submitted by not‑for‑profit organizations and recognizes two nominees each year with the coronation of King Pithla and Queen Chasco.
This year, 50 “Superheroes” from our community were honored, including our newest King and Queen, and 37 not‑for‑profit agencies were highlighted for their incredible contributions of time and talent that lift up those in need.
ADAM SHOEMAKER was nominated by the Community Service Council of West Pasco. He is the Marketing Director/Clinical Liaison for Life Care Center. For more than 15 years, Adam has dedicated himself to serving and advocating for the senior population of Pasco County, ensuring older adults are represented and protected in decisions affecting their health, housing, and overall quality of life. Understanding that many seniors have no family member or advocate to stand beside them, he has made it his mission to be that voice. Following Hurricane Helene, he worked tirelessly to assist residents of Gardens of Beacon Square, helping them navigate FEMA applications, secure food and transportation, and find safe housing solutions. He has been a member of the Community Service Council for 14 years, holding numerous leadership roles, including President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Committee Chair. His volunteer efforts extend to organizations such as CARES, AAPP, PAN, United Way, and Angels for Seniors, where he collaborates to address critical needs. Through steady leadership, compassion, and persistence, he remains a trusted advocate committed to protecting Pasco County’s seniors and preserving their dignity and independence.
BRENDA GLASS was nominated by Rotary District 6950. She is the Owner of Superior Planning / Site Selection. Brenda has devoted her life to strengthening Pasco County through mentorship, leadership, and service. Rotary District 6950, the Rotary Club of New Port Richey, Junior Service League, Sertoma, and Pasco County’s judicial system have all benefited from her tireless efforts to attract and develop future leaders. Through the Florida Association of Community Corrections, she fostered collaboration among probation programs and founded Probationer’s Educational Growth (PEG), securing a grant that redirected first‑time youthful felony offenders into adult, technical, and vocational education. What began in Pasco County expanded to all 67 Florida counties and 17 other states, earning local, state, and national recognition. A hospitality industry trailblazer for three decades, Brenda has helped charitable organizations save money and produce successful events with precision and creativity. Even after losing her home to a hurricane, she remained steadfast in service, balancing Rotary activities, travel, and even skydiving. Her southern charm, attentive listening, and solution‑oriented mindset, paired with countless awards and leadership roles, reflect a legacy defined by empowerment, resilience, and unwavering optimism.
The 2026 Chasco Ball welcomed nearly 360 guests and was supported by 25 dedicated volunteers. Attendees enjoyed celebrating with the nominees, witnessing the coronation of the new Royalty, and participating in all the royal festivities. The evening also featured a Lighthouse client testimonial from Nykoda Icke and his mother, Maraynna. Nykoda, also known as “Peanut,” lost his eyesight at age two due to cancer and has since taught himself to play the piano and organ by learning music by ear. Maraynna shared that Lighthouse represents support, opportunity, and community for her family, stating, “It has helped my son build independence and confidence beyond the classroom by giving him the tools to navigate the world in his own way.”
Nykoda performed several songs during the evening, including “All of Me” by Jon Schmidt and “Can't Stop the Feeling” by Justin Timberlake. His performance was captivating and deeply moving for many in attendance. Jamie Mick, 2015 Queen and 2026 Ball Chair, shared, “Everyone in the room was captivated by the client highlight and his performance. The impact we made for Lighthouse was greater than any year in the last 15 that I can recall. Funding these vital services is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors and attendees. Happy Chasco to all!”
Lighthouse was fortunate to receive the support of several sponsors for the 39th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball. Top sponsors included Royal Bar: Rotary Club of New Port Richey; Photo Booth: Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital; Dance Floor: Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices of Florida Property Group, Association Division; Print: Synovus Bank and Roe Insurance; and Dessert: Morton Plant North Bay Hospital. The West Pasco Quilters Guild also created and donated “Celebrating America!” for LVIB’s live auction. The 87” x 87” Stars and Stripes–themed original quilt, celebrating America’s 250th birthday, was created by more than 20 members of the Guild.
To learn more about the Ball, Lighthouse, and to view a list of nominees, visit lvib.org.
1. Introducing the newly crowned 2026 King Pithla Adam Shoemaker and Queen Chasco Brenda Glass.
2. Guest speakers Maraynna Icke and Nykoda shared Nykoda’s experience in Lighthouse’s Children’s Program and his passion for playing the piano and organ. Nykoda performed several songs throughout the evening, and his enthusiasm and skill entertained all who attended, leaving the audience feeling emotional and in awe.
Photos courtesy of Photos by J. David.
