A close-knit Tringali neighborhood is proving once again that a small community can make a big impact. What began as a simple Halloween walk three years ago has grown into a full neighborhood tradition, thanks to residents who look out for each other and look for ways to give back. This spirit has sparked a new event that is happening tomorrow morning: the Golden Gobbler Turkey Trot, a fundraiser supporting St. David’s Jubilee Center.
The idea took shape when Crystal Burritt, Operations Manager at the Jubilee Center and a longtime neighborhood volunteer, shared that the pantry shelves were nearly bare. Donations were down, and the situation was becoming serious. Neighbors listened and decided to take action. That was three weeks ago, and since then, as Englewood does so well, residents and businesses rallied and now donations are returning to the shelves. But there is always room for more, especially during the holidays.
The Golden Gobbler is designed to be fun. There is a one-mile walk, an optional 5K and trophies waiting at the finish line. Categories include Best Costume, Best Group Theme, Best Pet Costume, First to Finish the 5K, and the Most Fabulous Flock. The main prize, of course, is the Golden Gobbler itself, awarded to the person who brings the largest amount of food donations. This trophy is serious business and competition is strong.
Local business owners Steffen and Jody Capello of Gasparilla Roasting stepped in without hesitation. They offered their shop as the starting point because it sits right in the neighborhood and close to the library. They will sell dollar lattes and drip coffee during the event and donate every dollar to the Jubilee Center. The gathering will be followed by a trophy ceremony and then a holiday market.
The goal is simple. Show up. Have fun. Support the Jubilee Center. Even a single can of green beans is welcome. Event organizer Lacey Preisler says the heart of it all is community. Whether someone lives in the neighborhood or is just hearing about it for the first time, everyone is invited.
Participants will meet at Gasparilla Roasting at 3374 North Access Road at 8 AM. The walk begins around 8:30 or 9:00. It promises to be a lively morning and a strong finish to a true neighborhood effort.
