The 39^th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball was held on Friday, March 20, 2026 at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey. We are thrilled to announce that together we raised more than $75,000 to help the Lighthouse meet its mission of educating, empowering, and employing people who are visually impaired and blind!

The Chasco Coronation Ball celebrates the outstanding contributions made by many in our community with nominations from not-for-profit organizations, and it recognizes two of the nominees 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.

Congratulations to our 2026 King Pithla and Queen Chasco are Adam Shoemaker and Brenda Glass.  

Enjoy the 39th Annual Chasco Coronation Ball Photo Album. All photos are courtesy of Photos by J. David.

Read New King Pithla and Queen Chasco lead by example by CHRISTINE BRYANT of Suncoast News.

Continue on to learn more about the Ball, our new King and Queen, our musical prodigy Nykoda, and sponsors and other our supporters.

Hail to the New King & Queen

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!”

The Lighthouse is grateful for the support of our clients, royalty, nominees, sponsors, donors, and volunteers. Together we were able to raise lots of money to help people who are visually impaired and blind of all ages cope with vision loss.