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Super Bowl LV creates big memories
Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeat Kansas City Chiefs, 31-9 By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
Tampa Bay Buccaneers fans were delirious with joy, after the Buccaneers defeated the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LV. Besides emerging victorious, the Bucs made history by becoming the first team in NFL history to play — and win — a Super Bowl game in its home stadium. Both the season and the Super Bowl were altered considerably by the COVID-19
pandemic — which created a scene where 30,000 cardboard cutouts outnumbered the 20,000-plus fans at Raymond James Stadium. The smaller crowd size didn’t diminish the experience in any way for Heather Stegmeier, of Wesley Chapel, one of the 7,500 vaccinated health care workers who received a free ticket to the game. In a pregame interview on CBS with interviewer James Brown, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell explained why the professional football league provided the free tickets to health care workers. “They’re our heroes,” Goodell said. “Today, the heroes are going to be sitting in
the stands.Those heroes have been working day and night for all of us, and taking risks and showing us courage, and obviously being the incredible professionals they are, to keep us all safe.” Goodell added:“We wanted to give them an opportunity to get away from all that for a day and just celebrate,” he added. Stegmeier’s happy Super Bowl experiences began on Jan. 29 — when she received a surprise videotaped message from Rob Gronkowski, known as Gronk to football fans, personally inviting her to the game. See SUPER BOWL, page 9A
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Survey results show gains, but ample room to improve By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
Pasco County received higher marks this year than it did last year in numerous categories in the annual National Community Survey. Even so, substantial improvements are needed, if the county wants to achieve its stated goal of being a premier county. An average of 350 communities participate annually in the National Community Survey, which is a collaborative effort between National Research Center Inc., and the International City/County Management Association. Pasco participated in the survey in 2009 and then again from 2012 through 2020. Last year, the county had an 18% response rate, for a total of 1,600 respondents. The validated survey results show how the county compares to other survey participants, in numerous categories. The rankings can be lower, similar or higher. The county also does a separate online community survey, using the same questions — with the goal of collecting additional data to help inform county decisions.That survey received 2,007 responses in 2020. Marc Bellas, the county’s performance management director, presented the survey results at the Pasco County Commission’s meeting on Jan. 12. The really good news is that “everything, almost across the board, is up from last year. Overall quality of life in Pasco County is up 12% from last year; that’s wonderful,” Bellas said. He added: “If our vision was to be Florida’s good county, we could stop right now, because we’re really doing good work.” But, the county isn’t satisfied with that designation, Bellas said. “The county wants to take what it has now that is good and take it to the next level, which is great. We need to be better than the average,” he said. This year’s results show substantial gains, in numerous categories, which demonstrates the county’s efforts are having an effect, he said. “We have been at work for quite some time in order to create a better community, and it’s showing up and the citizens are seeing that,” Bellas said. Bellas also reminded commissioners See SURVEY, page 9A
B INSIDE, PAGE 1B
COURTESY OF HEATHER STEGMEIER/ADVENTHEALTH
Heather Stegmeier had an awesome time at Super Bowl LV, enjoying the electric atmosphere and feeling special, to have her work as a health care professional honored and appreciated. She was one of 7,500 health care workers who received a free ticket to the game from the NFL.
Pigz in Z’Hills festival set for April 10 By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
A scaled-down version of the annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Fest has been set for April 10. The festival, being held for the 11th year, will take place at the Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road, directly across from the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport. Event hours are from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Unlike previous years, activities will be staggered throughout the day, to accommodate health and safety protocols related to the coronavirus pandemic. A drive-thru BBQ meal pickup line will be in place from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., followed by a live blues concert from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with select food vendors, such as gourmet French fries and kettle corn, as well as alcohol sales and more barbecue options. Other happenings include an all-day cornhole toss tournament and free tours of the Zephyrhills Museum of Military History, to get look at refurbished wartime planes and other unique memorabilia. Tickets are expected to be made available for purchase within the next couple weeks. Various packages will be sold separately for the drive-thru meal and concert, plus cornhole tournament entry fees. The popular food and music shindig has been twice postponed already — pushed back from scheduled dates in January and February. This latest reboot is all but set in stone, however. The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Committee recently came to a consensus with how to proceed with a setup, taking into account various COVID-19 protocols. Working in the festival’s favor is an anticipated increased rollout of coronavirus vaccines by springtime, plus a venue of more than a dozen acres, Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Director Melonie Monson told The Laker/Lutz News
FILE
A socially distanced live music concert will be among the happenings at the 11th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Fest. Chuck Riley’s All-Star Band will be one of the lead acts, among other performers.
in a recent interview. “We just kept building and formulating, and we really felt, ‘Let’s go forward with this. This event is really important to Zephyrhills, so we wanted to do it,” Monson said. “It was a relief to finally come up with a plan of action, and to be able to find a way that we could put this on safely and still really just showcase our community. Now comes the hard work though of making sure we put it all together, but we’re excited about this format, and we’re kind of really thrilled to see where it goes.” Noticeably absent from this year’s makeshift event is the prized BBQ cookoff contest that often attracts more than 60 competitive teams, plus a slew of judges and countless volunteers. The BBQ showdown often draws professional grilling teams who travel to barbecue events all over the United States. Monson said it was “a hard decision” among stakeholders to remove the hit cookoff competition from this year’s festival, but “we knew we could not do that safely in a COVID environment, so unfortunately, that had to go away this year.” Other elements, such as a classic car
show, a business expo and a kid’s fun zone won’t be part of the festivities this year either, according to Monson said. With a date, time and location locked in for Pigz In Z’Hills, organizers and volunteers are working diligently to get the logistics all in place over the next two months. This includes finalizing a full music lineup. One of the confirmed headliners is Chuck Riley’s All Star Band, a longtime festival act. As for other performers, Monson teased, “I think everybody’s going to be shocked when they see who all is going to be there.” Here’s how the concert will be laid out for attendees: • Spots are reserved by purchasing a 10by-10 foot grid, good for up to six people. • Price points will be based on vicinity to the music stage, with prices ranging from $40 to $100. • Concert-goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets. For individuals or families just looking for a hearty BBQ meal, the drive-thru option will offer a choice of pulled chicken or See FESTIVAL, page 9A
Closer Look a n
a d v e r t i s e r
P r o f i l e
Parent questions Pasco school quarantine policy By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
Residents Love the Resort Feel of Beach House The Beach House Assisted Living and Memory Care at Wiregrass Ranch sets the new standard in luxury senior living. Its prime location in Wesley Chapel, elegant design, first-class amenities and sophisticated comfort represents a unique inspired lifestyle. The apartments are bathed in seaside pastels for a tropical ambience and convey a sense of the sea and coastal living. The Beach House offers 24-hour support and access to medical care. Our healthcare services are customized to meet the specific needs of our residents with pharmacy services, regular medical checkups with our physicians who visit our community weekly, medical record maintenance and on-site nursing. We are an age in place community where residents can remain in their home until end of life with additional services provided by Home Health and Hospice. Life enrichment is a very important part of the Beach House lifestyle with exciting activities and regularly scheduled transportation to area events, the theatre, the Botanical gardens and
many more. Our residents enjoy live entertainment, classic movies in our theater, educational classes, painting with friends and resident inspired outings. Dining at the Beach House is always a delicious and varied experience. Our tantalizing menu features chef-prepared meals and our menu selections vary from day to day. Our residents feel like they are dining in a different 5-star restaurant every day. Our experienced, tenured management team at the Beach House is always available and accessible to residents and family members. Our nursing and care teams are focused on resident care and well-being. The Beach House is the ideal solution for older adults who want to live an active lifestyle, free from worries about home maintenance, cooking or cleaning. We will take care of the chores while you rediscover time and freedom to do as you like. Leave your cares behind and come join us at the Beach House. Call Gabriella at 813-508-6677 to schedule your lunch tour today.
30070 State Road 56 | Wesley Chapel | Florida 33543 BeachHouseWiregrass.com
When Mike Kidd’s daughter was exposed to someone at Sunlake High who tested positive for COVID-19, the school called to inform the family that she would need to quarantine. Kidd took it in stride. After all, the district has been asking families to do their part to help stop the spread of the virus. In fact, he told the school that there were two other girls in the family that attend the same school, so his family would keep them home, too. Initially, the school official agreed. But then, the family was notified that the two girls who had not been directly exposed were deemed as being absent from school. When the family tried to explain they were keeping the girls at home because their sister had been exposed to COVID-19, they were told that wasn’t the district’s policy, Kidd said. The district’s practice follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance, Steve Hegarty, a spokesman for Pasco County Schools, said via email. The Department of Health — Pasco County also follows the CDC’s guidance, according to an email from Melissa Watts, spokeswoman for the health department. But that doesn’t make sense to Kidd, who said if his daughter was exposed at school and came down with the virus, it was very likely that the virus would be spread to his other two daughters, since they are frequently in close contact with each other. “Obviously if students wearing masks and “socially distanced” at school would need to quarantine, my other daughters who sleep in the same room, lay in the same bed/couch and watch movies, hug, etc., should also quarantine,” Kidd told The Laker/Lutz News, in a letter to the editor, he sent via email. It just seems practical to quarantine the student’s siblings, when another student in
• 1,319 positive student cases; 16,999 students impacted • 594 positive employee cases; 1,492 employees impacted • Impacted cases are those who were required to stay away from school due to a positive case that resulted in quarantine.
* As of Jan. 25 Source: Pasco County Schools
the family is required to quarantine, he said. Hegarty explained the school district’s practice works like this:“The family would have received a call from the school, as well as an official letter from the Pasco Health Department informing them of the need to quarantine their daughter.That letter would not have instructed anyone else in the home to quarantine because there was no evidence that any other family members had been in close contact with a person who tested positive.” Hegarty said the district requires quarantine only “for those students and staff members who were in close contact.” He also noted: “What definitely would not be practical is requiring quarantine for anyone who came in close contact with a person who came in close contact with a person who tested positive. The district has had thousands of students quarantining and the number would be much higher, if it followed the practice of quarantining all siblings, Hegarty wrote. In fact, that practice could result in entire school populations being sent home, in some cases. A parent can decide to keep a student at home, Hegarty said. “It will be marked as an absence. It could be an excused absence, but still an absence. It would be up to the school and the family to ensure that the students don’t fall behind academically – regardless of whether they are quarantined or simply absent,” the school district spokesman said.
Ashes to go, and a free cup of Joe By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
They dese d er ve the best. Giv G e the em the be est!
Pasco County Schools, COVID numbers*
Pastor Kevin Grills acknowledges that he’s been reluctant for years to offer “ashes to go” on Ash Wednesday. It had a bit too much of a “fast-food feel” for his liking, the spiritual leader said, via email. But in the midst of a pandemic, it’s important to be creative and find new ways to reach people, according to Grills, who leads the First United Methodist Church of Land O’ Lakes. So, this Ash Wednesday, those driving through the church’s driveway will not only receive an imposition of ashes, but also a free cup of Aroma Joe’s coffee. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten period leading to Easter. This year, it falls on Feb. 17, and ashes will be distributed at the First Methodist Church of Land O’ Lakes from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., that morning.They will be distributed in the church’s driveway, at 6209 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O Lakes. Those arriving will be directed to one of
two pastors — Rev. Grills or Rev. Barry White will impose the ashes and will provide some information about Ash Wednesday, the season of Lent and opportunities to worship. No one will have to get out of their car and everything will be done with safety in mind and social distancing, Grills said. After getting their ashes, visitors can drive to a station where coffee will be made to order by Glenn Cote, the owner of Aroma Joe’s, a community partner with the church. Stopping at the church shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes, from start to finish, Grills said. The church has an uncomplicated motive for offering its hospitality. “This is simply to love our neighbors,” Grills said. The church has wanted to offer coffee to commuters for years, but just hasn’t made that happen. Grills hopes the Ash Wednesday event is just the start of a new “coffee for commuters” outreach effort that occurs on a more regular basis during the year.
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Offices may go up near Cypress Creek Town Center
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By B.C. Manion
• •
bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
• • • • Still Here. Still Caring g. Still Trusted d.
UPCOM VACCIN ING ATIION CLINIC AVAILA CS BLE FO R ALL OU R RESID I ENTS
(813) 508-6677 5 BeachHouse eWiregrass.c com
30070 State Road 56 5 | Wesle e y Chapel | Florida 33543 2A
February 10, 2021
www.LakerLutzNews.com
The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of a change to the county’s comprehensive plan that would allow consideration for office use on a site with 9.1 developable acres, west of Wesley Chapel Boulevard and south of Hyde Park Boulevard. The site currently is designated for residential and conservation uses on the county’s long-range plan. County planners recommended approval of the change, and no one spoke against the request at the Planning Commission’s Feb. 4 meeting. The new designation would allow consideration for an office development of approximately 67,000 square feet.A rezoning also would be needed, and is being pursued. In agenda background materials, county planners say the request is consistent with policies in the county’s long-range plan because the development would be located along State Road 54, which is an arterial roadway.
Planners also note the proposed office would serve as effective transitional use. “Due to the existing topography and wetland features, the development will efficiently buffer the office development from surrounding residential land uses and will not impact any wetlands on the property,” the agenda materials note. “The proposed development abuts existing residential and commercial uses within Cypress Creek Town Center MPUD (masterplanned unit development) and will be constructed as one-story office buildings. The proposed amendment will provide the surrounding community with additional employment-generating uses further supporting the intent of Pasco County’s Urban Service Area by creating a live, work, play environment to attract high quality development,” planners add, in their support of the request. The applicant and approved agent for the request is Waterford Construction and Development Inc. The Pasco County Commission has final jurisdiction on requested changes to the county’s comprehensive plan.
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Heather Castle poses with Tyrone Keys. Now director of activities and training for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay, Castle credits Keys for having a positive influence on her life. She wants her organization to have the same kind of impact on young people helped by her organization.
Looking to recruit 55 good mentors
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Super Bowl LV has put an international focus on Tampa during the past week — with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers claiming victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, at Raymond James Stadium. The impact of the Super Bowl, however, goes far beyond football. Beyond giving Tampa a chance to show itself off to the world, the event is a magnet for megastars and offers the experience of a lifetime for many spectators. It’s also a chance to gain a huge audience for special causes. That’s where Big Brothers Heather Castle was 17 when she attended her first Bucs Big Sisters Tampa Bay comes in. game, accompanied by her mom, Kathy. Tyrone Keys The organization — which gave Heather the tickets to the game. covers an eight-county area, including Pasco and Hillsborough counties — has been using Super Bowl LV ers, whenever possible. as its platform to recruit 55 men to become And now, Castle has come full circle in Big Brothers to boys, ages 5 to 13. her current role at Big Brothers Big Sisters Heather Castle, director of activities and of Tampa Bay. training for Big Brothers Big Sisters of “Because Mr. Keys equipped me with the Tampa Bay, said finding more mentors is es- tools, I am able to help them.” pecially important during this difficult Besides helping youths pursue their poCOVID-19 time. tential, the organization provides The push for 55 men is in recognition of opportunities for new experiences and fun. the 55th Super Bowl, Castle said. Now, Castle is able to take youths to “The reason for the big push on men is their first Bucs football game, just like Keys because we have many Little Brothers on did for her. the waitlist and not enough male role modShe said Keys gave her two tickets to a els,” she explained. Bucs game when she was 17, and told her She knows the value, firsthand, of having to invite a friend. She took her mom, Kathy a mentor take an interest in her. Castle, because her mom was her best Tyrone Keys, a member of the 1985 friend. Chicago Bears Super Bowl championship She still relishes the memory of that day, team, became Castle’s mentor when she a especially since her mom passed away five 15-year-old attending Gaither High School. years ago. After his football career, Keys founded All While the Big Brothers Big Brothers of Sports Community Service Inc., which aims Tampa Bay’s current campaign focuses on to help youths pursue college scholarships. drafting 55 men, the organization needs the That’s how he met Castle. help of women mentors, too, Castle said. Keys worked with her to help her The need for help is obvious. achieve her dream of playing college basketHer organization currently has more ball, which she did at Saint Leo University. than 500 kids on its waiting list, Castle said, “He took me under his wing. He be- noting mentors can make a profound — lieved in me. He sat down with me and said, and life-changing difference. this is what exactly what you need to do,” Anyone interested in learning more Castle said. about getting involved can visit the Big He also taught her about the value of Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay’s website community involvement, and helping oth- at BBBStampabay.org.
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Heather Castle meets on the field with Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David and Litzy Maya-Nopal before the beginning of a Bucs game.
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February 10, 2021
3A
What’s Happening
Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge
QUILTERS EXHIBIT
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present the following, virtual events. Registration is through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. For more information, call 813-273-3652.
The Pasco-Hernando State College Rao Musunuru M.D.Art Gallery, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, will display “Eye of the Quilter,” presented by the West Pasco Quilters’ Guild, through March 20.Art exhibits are free and open to the public. Social distancing and masks are required. Attendance is limited to individuals and small groups.The school will be closed for spring break from March 1 to March 5. For information, call 727-816-3407, or visit PHSC.edu.
• Story time for kids: The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will offer a virtual Black History Month Story Time on Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m., for ages 3 to 6. Children can learn about the experiences and contributions of African Americans.
ELKS LODGE BINGO
Bingo is back at the Elks Lodge, at 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills, on Thursdays, from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.There will be monetary and door prizes, and refreshments will be available. For information, call 813-782-4604.
BRIAN CORLEY SPEAKS
The Wesley Chapel Republican Club will meet on Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m., at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road in Land O’ Lakes.The guest speaker will be Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley. Member and guests are welcome.Admission is free. For information, email wesleychapelr@gmail.com.
CANDLE-MAKING
There will be a candle-making workshop on Feb. 12 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at the New Port Richey Recreation & Aquatic Center, 6630 Van Buren St. Participants can learn how to create and pour soy candles, and take them home.All supplies are included. For tickets and information, visit Eventbrite.com.
BLACK MATTERS EXHIBIT
The Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, will host an art reception on Feb. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., for its “Black Matters: Past, Present & Future” gallery event.Admission is free, but an RSVP is required to attend.The exhibit will be available to view through February.To RSVP, email Michele Stone at curator@carrollwoodcenter.org.Those attending also can request a guided tour of the gallery.
COMEDY SHOW
Tickets are now on sale for Live Oak Theatre’s “The Importance of Being Ernest,” at the Carol & Frank Morsani Center for the Arts, 21030 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville. Dates are Feb. 12, Feb. 13 and Feb. 14. Showtimes are at 7:30 p.m., on Friday and Saturday, and at 2:30 p.m., on Saturday and Sunday.Adult tickets are $20. Children ages 13 and younger are $5 when purchased with an adult ticket.Admission includes coffee, tea and dessert, with snacks also available for purchase. For information and tickets, visit LiveOakTheatre.org, email LiveOakBoxOffice@gmail.com, or call 352593-0027.
TWEEN CRAFT
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer a virtual craft on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m., for tweens. Participants can learn to paint with air and straws.Visit Facebook.com/cplib to view the video.
MARRIAGE CEREMONY
The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Office of Nikki Alvarez-Sowles will present a Valentine’s Day Marriage Ceremony on Feb.
• Illustrated lecture: Dorothy M. Davis, president of Griffith J. Davis Photographs and Archives, will present an illustrated lecture focusing on the impact of the photography and legacy of her father, Griffith J. Davis (1923-1993), a pioneering Black photojournalist, filmmaker and U.S. senior foreign service officer. The online session is Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m., and is sponsored by the USF Contemporary Art Museum, in partnership with the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library. The lecture is for teens and adults. • Civil Rights discussion: Dr. John Hartman will share his experiences as a Civil Rights protestor who was arrested in 1962 through a discussion on “Desegregation of Public Accommodations in Maryland, 1962,” on Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m., for teens and adults. Guests can learn how his and other cases were overturned by the Maryland Supreme Court. Dr. Hartman is a clinical psychologist who has taught at UCLA, University of Michigan, University of South Florida and the University of Tampa. • Tech achievements: Celebrate Black History Month by learning about the technological achievements of African Americans through “African American Tech Pioneers,” presented on Feb. 23 at 5:30 p.m., for all ages.
14 at 2 p.m., at the Historic Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., in Dade City. Reservations must be made by Feb. 11 by calling 352-521-4406 or 727-847-8086.
distancing and masks are required.There also will be a raffle. For information, call 813-933-6166.
BROMELIAD GUILD
The Land O’ Lakes Library’s LOL Book Club will meet on Feb. 17 at 2:30 p.m., via Zoom, to discuss “Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness” by Susannah Cahalan. Book discussions are on the third Wednesday of each month.To register for a Zoom link, call 813-929-1214.
The Bromeliad Guild of Tampa Bay will meet on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m., at the American Legion Building, 6918 N. Florida Ave., in Tampa.The guest speaker will be Tom Wolfe on the topic of “Kaleidoscope of Neos,” an overview of Neoregelias emphasizing color, size, adaptability, hardiness and charm.The monthly meeting includes a door prize, a Show and Tell of blooming bromeliads, the program, a raffle, and sales and refreshments. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. For information, call Tom Wolfe at 813-391-1542.
LOL BOOK CLUB
FISH FRY FRIDAYS
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a virtual class on Feb. 16 at 4:30 p.m., for tweens in grades four to seven. Viewers can learn how to make a simple king cake to celebrate Mardis Gras.Visit the cooperative’s Facebook or Instagram page to watch the video.
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will offer its annual Lenten Fish Fry Fridays starting Feb. 19.This year, dinners are prepaid, take-out only, from 3:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., due to COVID-19 restrictions. Each dinner includes two pieces of fish and up to three sides.The cost is $10 per meal. Preorder by the weekend before each Friday to guarantee your dinner. Upcoming dates are Feb. 19, Feb. 26, March 5, March 12, March 19 and March 26. Pre-order meals online at KnightsLOL.org/takeout.
REPUBLICAN CLUB
MAKE A POT ROAST
MAKE A KING CAKE
The East Pasco Republican Club will meet on Feb. 16 at 6 p.m., at Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills, in the Tuttle Room.The guest speakers will be Beth Aker, director of East Pasco Meals on Wheels, and Mark Warren, pastor of Journey Church of Wesley Chapel.
TAMPA ROSE SOCIETY
The Tampa Rose Society will meet on Feb. 16 at 7 p.m., at the Seminole Garden Center, 5800 Central Ave., in Tampa.The guest speaker will be Jeff Mogilewicz on the topic of “Dry Wrapping Your Rose,” along with detailed instructions. Social
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer a Foodie Feast video on Feb. 19 on how to make a pot roast.Watch the prerecorded video at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary any time between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. For information, call 352-567-3576, or email Danielle Lee at daniellel@pascolibraries.org.
SONS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION
The Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will meet, via Zoom, on Feb. 20 at noon.The guest speaker will
be Ottis Stonestreet, a historian and lecturer, on the topic of the Battle of Cowan’s Ford. For information, email William Floyd at bloydpres@aol.com.
POKER RUN
The ninth annual Hittin’ the Road for Hospice Motorcycle Poker Run is scheduled for Feb. 20, to raise money for hospice patients in Pasco County cared for by Gulfside Hospice.The run will start at Harley-Davidson New Port Richey and end at Elks Lodge No. 2731 in Zephyrhills. Check-in starts at 9 a.m. (last bike out at 10 a.m.) There will be stops along the way and a celebration at 1 p.m., featuring cash prizes, music, prize drawings and more. The top fundraising team will win the Wings & Wheels Award. Participants can register online at HittinTheRoadForHospice.org, or sign up the morning of the event. Register by Feb. 12 and receive a free T-shirt, patch and door prize ticket.
THEATER AUDITIONS
The MAS Theatre at the Carrollwood Cultural Center will host auditions for “Behind Closed Doors,” on Feb. 21 and Feb. 22 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at 13345 Casey Road in Tampa.The play is the 2021 recipient of The Studio Project award and is a two-act play, with two scenes per act. Auditions will consist of cold readings from the script. Prepared monologues are welcome, but not required. No experience is necessary, and all roles are voluntary.The production crew will practice social distancing, and participants will be required to wear a mask. For information, contact Aaron Washington at aaron@carrollwoodcenter.org or 813-9228167.
NETWORKING GROUP
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Feb. 23 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.The guest speaker will be Beth Akers, director of East Pasco Meals on Wheels. For information, contact Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or nilslenz@gmail.com, or Vicky Jones at 813431-1149 or donlvicl@yahoo.com.
GIRLS NIGHT OUT
The Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, will present a “Girls Night Out Comedy Show” on Feb. 26 at 8 p.m. Performing comediennes will be Catherine Maloney,Tiffany Barbee and Angela Nacca. The show will be livestreamed through CarrollwoodCenter.org.Tickets to attend in person are $15 to $20. Online access admission is $10.There are limited seats available for in-person, to ensure social distancing. For information and tickets, visit CarrollwoodCenter.org, or call 813-9228167.
SNEAKER FUNDRAISER
The GFWC TampaBay Woman’s Club is hosting a “Got Sneakers” Recycling Project to collect new and used athletic shoes.The donations will help put shoes on the feet of those less fortunate, the needy and the homeless.The club receives $3 for each new pair and $1 for each used pair of sneakers donated. Boxes will be available in the clubhouse, community center and welcome center through March 1. For questions and information, call Judy Quail at 352-206-9000.
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Don’t forget, Sunday is Valentine’s Day Compiled by Kelli Carmack kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com
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hether it’s a childhood crush, a budding romance or a lifelong love — Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the joy that your love brings to your life. Here’s hoping you enjoy this small selection of love stories will help inspire some sweet memories for you, and that you have yourself a Happy Heart’s Day, too.
A shared love of Disney, and pets Around 2014, I joined the online dating app called Plenty of Fish. Both my husband and I came across each other’s profiles and our conversation started very quickly. We finally agreed to meet in person and decided on a Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins Combo, because who doesn’t like coffee and ice cream? We hit it off immediately and ended up at IHOP for a “Breakfast for Dinner� date night. Our biggest love that we share is for Disney; he loves the parks and I love the original movies. We also both absolutely love animals. Over the next five years, there were obstacles that came between us like jobs, distance and other potential relationships, but we always ended up going back to one another. We finally made the decision that we were meant to be. My husband moved into my home in February 2019, and we decided to make it official and were married in February 2020. We bought our first home together in March 2020 following our wedding, and are hopeful for a baby to join our family this year. We have many fur babies (three dogs,
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What a good guy, great connection Clark and I met eight years ago when we worked at the same restaurant together in Tampa.We lost touch after we both found new jobs, but reconnected this past year. I love him because he is my best friend, a good guy, and we have a great connection. — Katie Fernandez (Katie is the sales assistant at The Laker/Lutz News) COURTESY OF KATIE FERNANDEZ
Almost 37 years, and still going strong Joe and I both lived in the same town and went to the same high school. We met in 1980, and although we have different versions of how we met, it all worked out for the best! I fell in love with him because he lets me be me, loves me unconditionally, makes me laugh, and wants to see me happy. We’ve raised three amazing kids and will be married 37 years in May. — Mary Rathman (Mary is the editorial assistant at The Laker/Lutz News)
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February 10, 2021
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AdventHealth Wesley Chapel TOP CHOICE FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH CARE NEEDS Special to The Laker/Lutz News
AdventHealth Wesley Chapel has been named one of the top hospitals in the country for emergency care, mammogram imaging, minimally invasive surgery, obstetrics, stroke, orthopedics and patient safety by the Women’s Choice Award. The Women’s Choice Award® empowers women to choose the best health care based on female patient satisfaction and clinical excellence for hospitals across the country. This is the sixth consecutive year AdventHealth Wesley Chapel has been named a top choice for women. “We are honored to once again be the top choice for women looking for high-quality health care,” said Erik Wangsness, President and CEO of AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “We are committed to providing safe, high-quality care, and to have that work recognized is gratifying.” The Best Hospitals demonstrate exceptional ratings, providing the highest level of care and commitment to their patients’ health and wellbeing. The Women's Choice Award is the only designation that takes into consideration the preferences of women when selecting a hospital. “This recognition highlights our commitment to providing expert, compassionate care to our community,” said Dawn Hicks-Waldron, Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer, AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. “This is a testament to the work and dedication that our team brings each and every day.” The Women’s Choice Award for Best Hospitals™ is a trusted referral source and coveted credential that identifies the nation’s best hospitals based on robust criteria that includes relevant clinical performance, patient satisfaction and appropriate accreditations. Visit www.womenschoiceaward.com to learn more information.
About AdventHealth Wesley Chapel Since opening in October of 2012, the hospital has been recognized as a leader in patient satisfaction, quality, and safety, earning national recognitions including, being the only hospital in Tampa Bay to receive a 5-star CMS ranking in 2020. The hospital offers a full range of inpatient and outpatient health services, including surgery, imaging and rehabilitation services, emergency services for adults and children, and Inspiration Place, a comprehensive women’s health center that incorporates female physician specialists, women’s imaging, pelvic floor and female physical therapy and a boutique spa. For more information about AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, visit www.AHWesleyChapel.com, or Facebook.com/AdventHealthWesleyChapel.
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Pasco Animal Services to get cooling, heating upgrade By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County Commission is moving ahead with a project to upgrade the heating, ventilation and air conditioning system at its Animal Services’Adoption Center. Commissioners approved a staff recommendation to proceed with a project design, and build a heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrade for the Adoption Center, for a cost not to exceed $506,190. The agreement calls for utilizing Omnia Partners, with Daikin Applied Americas Inc. The Adoption Center consumes more energy per square foot than any other county building, according to the board’s Jan. 26 agenda background materials. The building currently averages an annual electric bill over $160,000 per year, the agenda materials say, and the installation of three new energy-saving HVAC units would save approximately $90,000 annually. Using Omnia would allow for standardization with current systems already installed throughout the county, the agenda materials said. In other action, commissioners allocated $40,000 to help pay for amenities at the intersection of the Starkey and Suncoast trails. The primary source of support for the project is a $160,000 grant from a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) recreational trail program grant. Pasco County also set aside an additional $10,000, for possible cost overruns. The money will be used to add a restroom with a composting toilet, an ADA hard-surface access trail, a well/water fountain, a bike repair station, a solar charging station, a bike rack, a wayfinding locator, and a kiosk with trail use/trail safety educational literature. In another action, commissioners approved the purchase of 1.09 wetlands
mitigation credits in the amount of $131,100 from North Tampa Mitigation LLC. The credits are needed to offset additional wetlands impacts for the Wesley Chapel Boulevard (County Road 54) widening project, from north of State Road 56 to north of Magnolia Boulevard, according to the agenda backup. As part of finalizing the design plans for the C.R. 54 (Wesley Chapel Boulevard) widening project from north of S.R. 56 to north of Magnolia Boulevard, two stormwater management facilities located at the south end of the project needed to be reconfigured and relocated. In addition, a right-turn lane was added on northbound Wesley Chapel Boulevard, 54 at Compark Drive to replace the existing right-turn lane. These design changes resulted in additional wetland impacts, which need to be mitigated in order for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to approve the county’s permit modification application. On another issue, commissioners approved a resolution requesting the Pasco County Legislative Delegation to sponsor and support a local bill that would support a Net Metering Program in Pasco County. At the end of 2024, Pasco County’s energy contract with Duke Energy (Duke) will expire. Presently the sale of renewable electricity supplied by the Waste To Energy (WTE) Facility accounts for approximately 40% of the solid waste department’s enterprise fund’s annual revenue, according to a county documents contained in the board’s agenda materials. Under Duke’s currently available standard offer contract, the county’s annual electrical revenue would decrease by over $22 million, the document says. If the proposed local bill is adopted, Pasco County would be able to realize fair market value for the renewable electrical energy that it is already generating.
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Office closures set for county services By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
Pasco County government offices and the Pasco County Property Appraiser’s Office will be closed Feb. 15 for a Staff Development and Appreciation Day. Departments will be performing staff development and appreciation activities focused on team building, and improving services for area communities and neighbors. All Pasco County libraries also will be closed that day. Pasco County Public Transportation (PCPT) will be in service, but will run on the COVID-19 modified service schedule on all fixed routes and paratransit. Its administrative offices will be closed to walk-in customers; however, phone lines will be open.To learn more about the route schedule, visit tinyurl.com/p66vg3d6.
In addition, these offices also will be closed on Feb. 15: • Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources’ offices, recreation complexes and community centers; however, the parks and beaches will be open to the public, from dawn to dusk • Pasco County Animal Services’ administration office, adoption center, intake/reclaim shelter and field services; an animal control office will be available for emergencies only The Pasco County Resource Recovery Facility, West Pasco Class III and the East Pasco Transfer Station will remain open to the public and to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers. Other county government constitutional offices, including the tax collector’s office and the courts, will be open on Feb. 15. All government offices will return to regular hours on Feb. 16. For information, visit PascoCountyFl.net.
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Certified swim instructor Teddy Sandoval, left, and 6-year-old student Haya Autabachy, of New Tampa, warm up during one of the water safety classes at the New Tampa Family YMCA.
Water safety is a top priority By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will be collecting donations in February for the YMCA of the Suncoast’s Swimming Lesson Program. Water safety is a high priority of the YMCA, and it is a mission that is shared by the Pasco Tax Collector’s Office. In a county that is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico, and neighborhoods that have swimming pools and myriad lakes, preparing young people to navigate safely in the water is of great importance. “The YMCA of the Suncoast serves more than 7,000 children annually in our mission to eliminate drownings by providing life-saving swim skills in all counties, including Pasco, served by our Y,” Julio Vega, district vice president YMCA Suncoast, said in a news release. “With drowning the leading cause of death in children between the ages of 1 and 4, it is vitally important that they receive
water safety lessons as soon as they are able.“Unfortunately, Florida ranks as one of the highest states in the nation for infant and toddler drownings. We must do all we can to bring this number down,” Fasano said. The funds raised through the campaign will help to provide swimming and water safety lessons to children whose families may not otherwise be able to afford them. Cash donations can be made at any of the five tax collector offices in Pasco County. For information about the YMCA of Suncoast, call Vega at 727-375-9622, or visit YMCASuncoast.org. For information about the charitable giving programs at the Pasco Tax Collector’s office, call Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector, at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com. Donations also can be mailed to Tax Collector Mike Fasano, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526. Note “YMCA” on the check’s memo line.
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The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about news from our local schools, including upcoming events, photos of events, recognitions and so on. Submissions need to include who, what, where, when, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. Please send your information two weeks prior to desired publication date, and email it to news@lakerlutznews.com. If you would like The Laker/Lutz News to consider coverage of an event, send a request to the same email.
Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com
ACADEMY AT THE FARM
ST. ANTHONY OPEN HOUSE
St. Anthony Catholic School, 12155 Joe Herrmann Drive in San Antonio, is scheduled to open a new VPK program in August. Enrollment for new families will begin on Feb. 23. St. Anthony is a private K-8 school founded in 1884 and dedicated to providing students with quality and Christ-centered education that addresses a child’s needs spiritually, academically, socially, emotionally and physically. For information and to learn more about the school’s VPK program, K-8 openings, or to schedule a tour, please call 352-588-3041, or visit StAnthonySchoolFl.org.
Academy at the Farm, 9500 Alex Lange Way in Dade City, is open for enrollment through Feb. 28. The charter school is “designed to meet the needs of all students by promoting academic excellence, developing productive citizens through character building, and incorporating the advancement of technology in the curriculum,” according to its website. The academy serves preschool through eighth grade. For more information and to apply, visit AcademyAtTheFarm.com.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT
Clare O’ Keefe, of Lutz, was named to the Dean’s List at Endicott College, Beverly, Massachusetts, for the fall semester.
O’ Keefe is majoring in sports management.
EARLY RELEASE DAYS
During the second semester, Pasco County Schools will implement a two-hour early release day every month, each day falling on a Wednesday. There will be no early release day in May. The early release days, which were implemented for the first time last school year, provide teachers with an opportunity to complete professional development and experience training that will help increase effective instruction and ultimately will benefit students. Students who are registered in the district’s PLACE program will be able to stay the extra two hours with no additional charges. School buses will operate two
hours earlier during early release days.The routes and bus stops will not change. Upcoming early release days are March 3 and April 7. The bell times, including the early release times for each school, can be found at on the Pasco County Schools’ Facebook page.
SAT SCHOOL DAY
The District School Board of Pasco County will provide the SAT School Day free of charge to all juniors on March 24, according to the Pasco County Schools Facebook page. The district will register all juniors for the test; it is not necessary for students to register on the College Board website. For more information, students should contact their respective school counselor.
Grace Corlee
Alyssa Hanson
Tai Lynch
Lemuel Owotoki
Ryan Fleshood
Marjiana Brown
Clarence Strong
Riley Hutchinson
Kayvon Naughton
Alyssa Rojas
Students of the Month
Twelve students from three schools were honored as the Greater Zephyrhills Students of the Month. Staff from The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce visited the schools and delivered certificates and goody bags to the students, in lieu of an in-person ceremony, due to the COVID-19 restrictions. The students were chosen by the teachers and administration of their individual schools for exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to the school, their family and their community. The chamber has recognized students with this program each month of the school year for 22 years. These students received honors for the first nine weeks of school: Alyssa Hanson, Lemuel Owotoki, Grace Corlee and Tai Lynch, of Heritage Academy; Alyssa Rojas, Brady Hinsz, Dylan Fleshood and Marjiana Brown, of Stewart Middle School; and, Clarence Strong, Riley Hutchinson, Kayvon Naughton and Taylor Sampson, of West Zephyrhills Elementary School. Not all students were available for a photo.
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SUPER BOWL, from page 1A She was at work at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel, when the invite came. “I was told that I had a conference call at 9 o’clock.That was my 9 o’clock conference call,” she said, laughing, and noting she was shocked. On game day — Feb. 7 — she went through a flood of emotions, as she put on her jersey and got ready to go, she said. As health care workers arrived at the stadium, they received a warm welcome, she said. “The staff that were greeting us were all cheering for us. It was very surreal. It made you feel like you were really, really special. “It made me so proud to do what I do. That so many people respect and appreciate
SURVEY, from page 1A there often is lag time between improvements the county has made and improved survey results. He stepped through results in numerous categories. Overall confidence in Pasco County government has improved by 8%, Bellas said. In the area of governance, which he described as the county’s board’s report card, survey respondents gave higher marks for value of services for taxes paid (up 8%), government working in the best interest of the community (up 8%) and honesty (up 13%). “In this survey, double-digit movement is unheard of.That is huge.That is huge,” Bellas said. The county also saw a significant improvement in the category relating to fair treatment of residents.That jumped up by 13%. County Commissioner Mike Moore weighed in on that finding. “People recognize that this county does care about the residents and we do treat everyone on equal footing,” Moore said. Commission Chairman Ron Oakley said that result also reflects well on Pasco residents. “They’re some of the greatest citizens that you could have,” Oakley said. Survey results also show improvement in the area of customer service. Overall, the county’s customer service received a positive rating of 75%, up 6% from the previous year. Bellas said that reflects the board’s emphasis on customer service. “I remember just a couple of years ago, you as a board said,‘You guys got to really get into this customer service thing.’ We heard you. It’s happening, and the citizens have seen the result of that,” Bellas said. He also noted a big jump in the category of information services, which experienced a 12% gain. “These are big, big moves forward. Feel good about that,” Bellas said. Despite the progress, Commissioner Kathryn Starkey wants to seek out ways to perform better. “I’m curious,” Starkey said.“Who has higher (results) and what are they doing? “I’d love to learn what they’re doing that maybe we could copy, and do better. I’m not good with being similar. I want to be higher,” Starkey said. Bellas said the county plans to address that:“In our strategic plan revision, that is part of our strategy — to benchmark against those higher-performing organizations, to really see what it’s going to take to go from that good to great.” The survey did identify some areas of concern, Bellas said, including few affordable housing options, public safety issues in West
what we do on a daily basis,” said Stegmeier, the manager of infection control and prevention at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. She not only got to go to Super Bowl, but she had a primo seat, too — sitting close to the field, at the 50-yard line. “I had a great view of pretty much everything,” she said. The cardboard cutout near her, she said, was a “little kid Eagles’ fan.” Also seated in her section were other health care workers — mostly from regional hospitals. There were health care workers from all over the country, representing the NFL’s 32 teams, at the game. The atmosphere was electrifying. “You could feel the excitement. It never let down. You felt it from the minute you walked in, until the minute you left,”
Stegmeier said. The Super Bowl Bomber Trio flyover was impressive, she said. “That whole part to me was very emotional. It was very loud. It was very cool, too. “It was pretty powerful,” she said. She enjoyed the performance of “America the Beautiful,” by H.E.R.; the rendition of the national anthem by Eric Church and Jazmine Sullivan; and, the halftime show, by The Weeknd, too. And, of course, she was impressed by the Bucs. “They did so well. They couldn’t have played better,” Stegmeier said. The whole experience is something she won’t soon forget. She said she enjoys watching football on TV, but being at the Super Bowl was entire-
ly different. “It’s not something I ever imagined being able to be a part of, but to be a part of that, is just — it’s mind-blowing,” she said. And, like Goodell said, it was a great way to decompress. “It has been a very trying — you know — year,” said Stegmeier, who joined the hospital’s staff a month before it opened its doors. She’s not sure how she was selected to attend the game, but she is grateful. “I was so happy just to be part of it. I was so blessed that I could be part of that. And, I’m just so thankful to the Bucs and the NFL and AdventHealth, that I was able to go. “For me, it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity, and it’s definitely a highlight. “Everything to me, yesterday, was just perfect,” she said.
Summary of Pasco County survey results Overall Quality of Life Excellent: 19% Good: 55% Fair: 20% Poor: 6% (Overall 74% positive rating, up 12% from 2019) Overall confidence in government Excellent: 12% Good: 36% Fair: 41% Poor: 11% (Overall positive rating: 48%, up 8%) Economic health Excellent: 11% Good: 44% Fair: 34% Poor: 12% (Overall positive rating: 55%, up 13% from 2019) Mobility Excellent: 8% Good: 40% Fair: 36% Poor: 16% (Overall positive rating: 48%, down 5% from 2019) Overall design of residential and commercial areas Excellent: 14% Good: 38% Fair: 31% Poor: 17% (Overall positive rating: 52%, up 8% from 2019) Overall feeling of safety in Pasco County Excellent: 16% Good: 46% Fair: 28% Poor: 10% (Overall positive rating, 62%, up 1% over 2019) Overall quality of natural environment Excellent: 21% Good: 46% Fair: 23% Poor: 9% (Overall positive rating, 68%, up 1% from 2019)
Source: Pasco County results from the 2020 National Community Survey
COURTESY OF W.C. MCDUFFIE
New lodge officers installed Zephyr Lodge 198, Free and Accepted Masons installed its new officers for 2021. Front row, from left: James Litchford, Joe Keating, Glen Gutterman, Cliff McDuffie and Paul Weil. Back row, from left: Jimmie Marks, Chad Pope, Tom Walden (worshipful master), Richard Weil and Fred Maixner. The lodge meets on the second and fourth Thursday of each month at 5950 12th St., in Zephyrhills. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7:30 p.m.
FESTIVAL, from page 1A brisket, plus an assortment of sides. Cost for that is $15 per person, though there is expected to be family meal option, too. Meantime, the cornhole tournament will be broken into a recreation and competitive divisions, with a $500 prize to the winning team. Entry fees are expected to be $20 and $40 per team, based on division. Pigz in Z’Hills is not just a community entertainment tradition, but a major fundraiser for student scholarships, and about a dozen nonprofits and community
organizations, such as Boy Scouts, East Pasco YMCA, and Relay for Life of Zephyrhills. To help make up for anticipated funding shortages from this year’s pared down event, the local chamber this month launched a campaign called “Love Your NonProfit” which showcases different organizations and solicits public donations for each. “Being able to give scholarships to our youth here in Zephyrhills is a big deal, and we just need to do it.They don’t need to suffer.They’ve already been through enough,” the chamber director said. For more information, call 813-782-1913, or email director@zephyrhillschamber.org.
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Pasco and the growth of multifamily housing outpacing infrastructure. Overall, Bellas said,“we’ve got some work to do, but we’re moving in the right direction and that’s the exciting part. “We’re better this year than last year; next year, we’ll be better than this year.”
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Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
Seniors keep active at East Pasco Family YMCA By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
T
he East Pasco YMCA in Zephyrhills is a welcoming community center for all ages — but some of its most robust activities are designed with the region’s ever-growing senior population in mind. Step into the facility any weekday mid-morning and you’re bound to find dozens upon dozens of seniors getting fit — and enjoying themselves, too — simultaneously, through pickleball, Silver Sneakers and water aerobics classes. Pickleball is by far the most popular activity among seniors, East FRED BELLET Pasco YMCA officials say. At any Helen Spearman, of Wesley Chapel, has been working out for the past 5 years at the East Pasco given time, three dozen players or more are competing in the indoor Family YMCA. She takes part in water aerobics, too. gymnasium, at 37301 Chapel Hill Loop. Pickleball is a paddleball sport combining many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. Using a smaller badminton-sized court and a slightly modified tennis net, players use a paddle and a plastic ball with holes, in either singles and doubles format. Compared to conventional tennis, pickleball players serve underhanded, the ball has less bounce and there’s no double alleys — whereby singles and doubles players are played on the same-size court. Moreover, there’s a 7-foot no-volley zone on each side of the net to prevent spiking. In simpler terms, pickleball represents a relatively seamless transition for aging tennis players who maintain hand-eye coordination and competitive drive, but no longer have Jane French spends part of the year living in Florida, and she spends some of that time takquite the footspeed to cover as much ing part in the Silver Sneakers program at the East Pasco Family YMCA. ground as they could in their younger years. Like many of her elder peers, San Antonio and wellness experience director Ryan Pratt tells you what was needed, besides the exerresident Carol Hatfield can be found playing is regularly awestruck in the way the cen- cise. They just needed to get back and see pickleball at the YMCA at least five days a ter’s aging players get after it on the court, each other, and have a conversation.” Seventy-five-year-old Dade City resident week. demonstrating their mastery of the fastBarb Gerrish, for one, was chomping at the The 74-year-old enjoys the fitness and fel- paced game. lowship components of the sport, playing “It’s quite impressive,” said Pratt, himself a bit to resume her daily Silver Sneakers classalongside locals and snowbirds alike. former Division I college football player at es amid the COVID-19 shutdown. “It’s just good exercise,” said Hatfield, Eastern Michigan University, during the late The facility’s Silver Sneakers program offers a variety of full-body exercises for who picked up the game about five years 1990s and early 2000s. ago. “You see the way they move in there, the seniors designed to increase muscular “I’m a tennis player, too, but I enjoy the agility that some of these seniors are display- strength and motion. Handheld weights, elasexercise and friendly people.We’ve met a lot ing.They keep begging me,‘You gotta come tic tubing, a ball and chair are used for of people from the north. in and play with us,’ and I think they’ll put to resistance. In lieu of these organized classes, Gerrish “I think the older I’ve gotten, I play more shame if I were to go in there,” he said. pickleball than tennis. I just enjoy the pickleLike other Florida-based gyms and fitness opted to walk in her neighborhood after ball.The game’s quick,” she said. centers, the local YMCA was shut down every meal to keep active. But, Silver Sneakers offers more apt East Pasco Family YMCA membership from about mid-March through mid-May due to the coronavirus pandem- movements to help her arthritis — also in a fun, socially distanced setting. ic. “I like the whole thing,” Gerrish said of It was during that period Pratt realized the Silver Sneakers, noting the Y has multiple insignificance of social inter- structors who each bring their own flair to action for all members, classes. A social butterfly herself, Gerrish makes a seniors included. “We’re so focused on point to greet every participant either behealth and wellness and fore or after class. “I have a lot of friends getting your exercise in, but here, and I like it that way,” she said. She also encourages others in her agemost people said they missed seeing their friends. range to partake in Silver Sneakers programI think we really down- ming, no matter their fitness level or played the effect of social physical limitations:“Anything’s better than isolation that’s going on nothing. Just give it a try. You don’t know until you’ve tried.” right now still,” he said. Other seniors like Greg Bartlett can be The YMCA administrator jested when the recreation found getting their fitness fix in the local Y’s facility finally reopened to seven-lane heated outdoor pool. Gregory Bartlett, of Zephyrhills, credits the water aerobics The 62-year-old Zephyrhills resident has members, “I think we had class for helping to keep him alive. He has several medical more conversations than been a regular in the facility’s water aerobics conditions. He’s been a member of the water aerobics class exercise going on, but that classes for nearly a decade. for nearly nine years. He joined the water exercise program to get healthy and to keep his weight in check. A diabetic on disability with back and neck ailments, Bartlett is unable to partake in traditional cardiovascular exercises on land, he said. Instead, the water is his safe haven for a fulfilling yet low-impact workout. “To do things like the treadmills and stuff is just too rough on me. Here, you don’t have all the impact, and I can exercise hard in the water,” explained Bartlett. The aqua classes have been a lifesaver for Bartlett, literally. “I really, honestly believe I wouldn’t be alive today if I wasn’t doing this, because I’ve got so many health conditions, and my weight and all that,” he said. When the YMCA closed in the spring, Bartlett was at a loss for what to do and how to cope. “I put on weight during the pandemic Kim Womack, who teaches the water aerobics class, shows participants how they should be and it really hurt,” he said. “I think they moving their immersed bodies in the water of the East Pasco Family YMCA pool. The class size should’ve never closed down this type of varies from eight participants to 30 participants. Womack has been with the Y for 13 years. stuff. Lack of exercise, for people like me,
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Pickelball enthusiast Rodger Brown, of Dade City, says he’s been playing pickleball for a year. Here, the winter resident from Michigan returns a shot to the opposing team of Joyce Fisher and Shirley Burnham.
you start reversing and getting back where you have problems breathing and stuff like that. I mean, it’s easy enough to keep separated, in the pool especially, and you’re also in chlorinated water.” Bartlett likewise missed having a place to go and hobnob with his aqua classmates.“I consider all these people my friends down here,” he said.
EXERCISE CLASSES ARE ENERGIZING
Keeping Bartlett and many other seniors in shape is Kim Womack, a longtime exercise instructor who’s worked at the East Pasco YMCA for going on 14 years. The experienced fitness teacher brings an upbeat and energetic attitude as she organizes water aerobics, Silver Sneakers and other group exercises. Womack gets a kick out of seeing her elder pupils complete a fulfilling workout session — and seeing their enjoyment through it all. Womack put it like this: “I just love the way that it makes the members feel. They feel good, they feel energized.” It’s satisfying, she said, to know “that they’re getting a good workout, they’re enjoying it and they’re having fun. It’s just nice seeing them being so active.” When the pandemic initially touched down,Womack worried for her older clientele, not just for traditional health reasons, but the possible effects of social isolation and inactivity. “A majority of the people who love doing group exercise classes kind of need those people around, and it just makes the day a lot easier for them,” Womack said. “It was quite a shock to see how you miss being around people and talking to them, and seeing how they’re doing.” For more information, call 813-780-9622 or visit TampaYmca.org/east-pasco-familyymca/about.
Glenda Iliev, of Wesley Chapel, right, makes some waves in the water aerobics class at the East Pasco Family YMCA. Cindy Daigler, of Zephyrhills, far left, and Annie Hermecz, of Dade City, center, follow along as instructor Kim Womack leads the class.
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS INSIDE: Directories, Classifieds, Games & More
FRED BELLET
Loomis Circus clown Sammy Marchant, of Dallas, left, sees eye-to-eye with 1-year old, Octavion Brown, of Tampa. It was Octavion’s first circus experience and he was checking things out. He was at the Grove with his mom, Maya Brown, older 5-year-old sister Justice Brown and 5-year-old Empress Moore, of Tampa.
B
F E B RUA RY 1 0 , 2 0 2 1
Mexican aerialist Gloria Castillo performs stunts high above the crowd during the first night of the special event at the Grove at Wesley Chapel, off Oakley Boulevard and State Road 54.
The circus comes to town — with dazzling sights and sounds The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
T
he Loomis Circus came to town, delighting hundreds of young and old spectators alike, under the big tent at the Grove at Wesley Chapel. After all, it’s not a common sight to see an aerialist performing stunts high up in the air, or watch a unicorn — decked out
in colorful lights — galloping around. There were Polynesian ponies, too. And, of course there were jugglers, a ringmaster, and clowns. What would a circus be without them? The circus made a three-day stop at the shopping, dining and entertainment complex, west of Interstate 75, north State Road 54.
Four-year-old Arden Beimfohr, left, 4-year-old Abel Rhule and 3-year-old Tristan Beimfohr pay rapt attention as performers delight the crowd at the Loomis Circus. Abel’s 3-year-old sister, Aria, was nearby with their moms.
A Unicorn makes a spectacular entrance — galloping around the center ring, decked out in colorful flashing lights.
Three-year old, Faith Kirstein, of Wesley Chapel, discovers a bouquet of balloons in front of the World Champion Karate Center’s booth, at the Grove. The center’s master instructor, Hyun, made balloon animals for awaiting kids. Faith was there with her mom, Lucy Martinez, and dad, Tommy Kingkiner.
Ringmaster Justin Loomis introduces jugglers and performers doing great feats at Loomis Circus, a three-day event that drew hundreds of spectators.
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Baylie is a fighter
Baylie is a rescue pup and is now 14 years old. She is a little troublemaker, even in her old age. Baylie is a very strong-willed, happy-go-lucky dog. She loves laying outside and rubbing her nose in the dirt. Baylie’s health hasn't been the best because of cancer, but she keeps on fighting. She loves her family just as much as they love her. Baylie lives with Tiffany Hardy in Wesley Chapel.
PET OF THE WEEK FAMILIES RECEIVE A $30 GIFT CARD TO CHUY’S TEX MEX. Send us a picture and information on your favorite pet!
Write a short paragraph about why your pet is special along with a photo and mail to: Pet of the Week, c/o The Laker, P.O. Box 479, Lutz, FL 33548 or email to mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, ATTN: Pet of the Week PLEASE NOTE: OWNERS NAME AND ADDRESS MUST BE INCLUDED FOR YOUR PET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR PUBLICATION.
LUNCH COMPANION
Lillian Cucuzza, of Land O’ Lakes, spotted a Northern Harrier at Circle B Bar Reserve in Lakeland. This one caught a lizard and perched right in front of her to eat it. The harrier is a bit different from other hawks as they have a white band where its tail begins from the body, and they have a face that almost resembles an owl.
PET PAWS FEBRUARY IS NATIONAL CAT HEALTH MONTH Pet cats are varied and complex creatures, whether they are devoted couch surfers, or indoor/outdoor cats that love to go on adventures in the backyard, walking on a harness and leash, or cruising in a stroller. And, they rely on their owners to keep them healthy, according to Dr. Erin Katribe, medical director for the Best Friends Animal Society. Dr. Katribe offers these tips, for every aspect of your feline’s life with you: • The essentials: Food, water, exercise and litter box. Keep your cat at a healthy weight by monitoring and adjusting their food quality. Provide toys and engage your cat in play with laser pointers or string toys for exercise. Litter boxes
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should be put in convenient places for the cat, rather than tucked away in a distant part of the house, to avoid behavioral misuse. See a vet right away if your cat’s litter box habit changes. • Veterinary care: Schedule regular wellness visits with the veterinarian.Visits not only include vaccines to prevent disease, but also include a thorough physical exam and additional testing that can be key in catching illness early. • Helping cats get back home: Collars, tags and microchips. Collars and tags are a low-tech way to help a pet to get back to its owner. An indoor-only cat can slip out a door, or an outdoor cat may not return home according to its normal routine.Anyone can read a tag and help a pet to get back home, but cats may lose
their collars, so a microchip implanted under the pet’s skin can provide peace of mind. • The importance of spay/neuter: Help cats live healthier lives, and save their lives. Spaying and neutering pet cats prevents more kittens from being born and allows more of the cats that do end up in the shelters the chance at life. Progressive lifesaving strategies like community cat programs have been implemented in many shelters as an alternative to cats needlessly losing their lives. The Best Friends Animal Society, founded in 1984, is an animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in shelters across the United States by 2025. For information, visit BestFriends.org.
SHARE YOUR PET NEWS If you have pet news about adoptions, walks or other events for pet owners and their pets, you can let us know by sending us an email.We just need the basics: who, what, when, where and why. The information should be submitted two weeks prior to the desired publication date. We also need a contact name and number, in case we have questions. There is no guarantee of publication. If you’d like to make a submission, send it to news@lakerlutznews.com. Readers can now find Pets of the Week and Local Wildlife photos on our website at LakerLutznews.com, under the Pets/Wildlife link.
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Pasco county named top workplace The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Pasco County Government has earned a 2021 Top Workplaces USA award, according to a Pasco County news release. Energage announced the winning organizations during a virtual event on Jan. 27. “We are thrilled to be recognized as one of the Top Workplaces in the country,” Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles said, in the release. “Pasco County Government is committed to focusing on our people and the customers we serve, and this recognition solidifies our growing reputation as a
progressive and innovative high-performing organization,” Biles added. Top Workplaces USA offers national recognition for large organizations with more than 150 employees. More than 1,100 organizations from across the country participated in the Top Workplaces USA survey. Winners are chosen based solely on employee feedback, gathered through an Energage employee engagement survey. Results are calculated by comparing the survey’s research-based statements, including 15 Culture Drivers that are proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks.
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Copper is a bundle of fun This 6-year-old is the perfect medium-size pup at about 50 pounds. If you're looking for an affectionate dog who is friendly toward people and loves walks, Copper may be your guy. He has a few health issues that the Animal Services staff would be happy to discuss with you. He would prefer to be an only pet and may do best in a home with older children or adults. Make an appointment today to meet Copper.
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PUT YOUR PET IN THE SPOTLIGHT! We are looking for photos and information on your favorite pet. Include in your short story your pet’s name, age, breed, and anything else you would like to mention. Don’t forget to include the owner’s name and city of residence! Send photo and information to:
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Make a connection with Oswaldo Oswaldo is looking for a soft place to land. This 2-year-old lanky fellow with beautiful black fur and golden eyes is a total sweetheart. He likes having his ears and chin scratched, and will give a low purr as you pet him. He even offers occasional kisses. Oswaldo is currently working on getting his skin back in top condition, but once that happens and he fills out a bit, he will be one handsome hunk. Schedule an appointment with Pasco County Animal Services today to meet Oswaldo.
If you would like to adopt Copper or Oswaldo, be sure to visit Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net.
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Gather a harvest 5. Federal Republic of Germany 8. Bravo! Bravo! Bravo! 11. “The Little Mermaid” 13. The common gibbon 14. Volcanic island in Fiji 15. Mother of Perseus 16. Egg cells 17. Teams’ best pitchers 18. Credit associations 20. Advance 21. Hair styling products 22. Benign tumors 25. Arriving early 30. Called it a career 31. __ Paulo, city 32. Avoid with trickery 33. Easter egg 38. Veterans battleground 41. Lack of success 43. Thing that causes disgust 45. Deep, continuing sound 47. Ancient kingdom near Dead Sea 49. You might put it in a fire 50. Partner to “oohed” 55. Actor Idris 56. Slippery 57. Plant of the bean family 59. One point north of northeast 60. Patti Hearst’s captors 61. Places to hang clothes 62. Midwife 63. Of she 64. S. Korean statesman DOWN 1. Cool! 2. Amounts of time 3. Aboriginal people of Japan
4. Popular veggies 5. Wedding accessory 6. Deep, narrow gorges 7. Dry cereal 8. Competitions that require speed 9. Cain and __ 10. Snake sound 12. Type of amino acid (abbr.) 14. Pattern of notes in Indian music 19. Satisfy 23. Misfire 24. Nearsightedness 25. Indicates before 26. Increase motor speed 27. When you hope to get there 28. Indicates position 29. Where rockers perform 34. Substitute 35. __ juris: of one’s own right 36. Earliest form of modern human in Europe: __-magnon 37. Adult female bird 39. Do away with 40. Lens 41. Flattened appendage 42. Post or pillar in Greek temple 44. A medieval citizen of Hungary 45. Spiritual leader of a Jewish congregation 46. Abba __, Israeli politician 47. Sew 48. Evergreen trees and shrubs having oily one-seeded fruits 51. Swiss river 52. Grayish-white 53. A way to illustrate 54. College basketball superpower 58. Midway between south and southeast SEE SOLUTIONS, PAGE 9B
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MOST COMPETITIVE JOBS IN FLORIDA: RETAIL
CareerCloud recently released a study that shows that in Florida the No. 1 most common and competitive job is a retail salesperson.That job represents 1,594 jobs for every 100,000 people in the state. The report is based on the recent data from the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and the Census Bureau, according to a news release from CareerCloud. Some key findings: • The five most competitive jobs in America are: Retail salesperson (1,379 workers per 100,000 people), food preparation and serving (1,132), cashiers (1,115), office clerks (965), registered nurses (935). • Retail salesperson is among the top three most competitive jobs in 48 states, followed by cashier (26 states), and food prep and service worker (16 states) • The five fastest-growing jobs through 2028 are: Solar installers (expected to increase by 45%); wind turbine technicians (expected to increase by 39%); home health aides (expected to increase by 21%), person care aides (expected to in-
crease by 21%); and, occupational therapists (expected to increase by 18%). CareerCloud also offers these tips for job seekers: · Update Resume to Beat the Bots: Nearly 100% of Fortune 500 companies use a digital ATS platform to weed out resumes before a human sees them. To beat the bots, add keywords from the job description into your resume. • Remember: Appearance Matters. Up Your Zoom game. Choose a clean background in your home for Zoom interviews, and make sure you dressed and groomed for success, as if it was an in-person interview. • Be Flexible and Focus on Transferrable Skills: As the economy rebounds, your old job may be gone, or you may choose an industry with less competition. Be sure to highlight your transferrable skills– such as office management or mentoring of new hires.
BORROWING FROM THE BANK OF MOM & DAD
Nearly one in four young Floridians have loans from their parents since the pandemic, according to a survey by USAWillGuru.com. Seventy-eight percent of respondents say there is no interest on loans from their parents, and one in five parents admit they are not confident they will be repaid. The survey included 4,500 people between the ages of 20 and 29. As Gen Z moves into adulthood and millennials advance into middle age, an overwhelming trend has emerged, revealing that 23% of young Floridians have relied on parents to help pay the bills since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. The categories most parents are requested to help pay for are: Rent: 52%; Car: 22%;
Groceries: 15%; and, Childcare: 11%. For those borrowing from the Bank of Mom & Dad, 78% say there is no interest on the loans, including 5% who had not even discussed repayment terms. For those moving back in with their parents, 72% said they are doing so, rent-free. But, young people aren’t the only ones being affected by the pandemic, as 52% of parents who have given adult children money since the start of the pandemic, admit that they haven’t been able to provide the full amount requested, according to the survey. Most said they didn’t have the funds available, but one in five said they were not confident their children would pay them back.
INITIATIVE AIMS TO HELP EMERGING LEADERS
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced the launch of the 2021 Emerging Leaders initiative for executives of small businesses poised for growth in underserved markets, according to a news release. Local area recruitment for the 2021 training cycle is currently underway at designated SBA District Offices. Interested small business owners can learn more regarding eligibility, how to apply, class schedules and locations at SBA.gov/emergingleaders, or by contacting their local SBA District Office.
RECENT RIBBON-CUTTINGS
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce has announced a number of recent ribbon-cuttings: • Geico Wesley Chapel will have a grand opening on Feb. 11 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at
1227 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. • Kiddie Academy of Wiregrass Ranch, had a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 9, at 2900 Hueland Pond Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. • HD Real Estate Company had an open house on Feb. 3, at the North Tampa Bay Chamber Office, 1868 Highlands Oaks Blvd., in Lutz. • Rest Easy Realty hosted a ribbon-cutting and grand opening on Jan. 27, at 32347 State Road 52, Suite B, in San Antonio.
NEW DENTIST COMING
Eduard Pocola, DDS soon will offer dental services to the community of Odessa at Preserve Dental Care, a full-service, family dental practice set to open on March 5. Services will range from routine cleanings and simple fillings to more in-depth restorative and cosmetic services, according to a news release. Preserve Dental Care is located at 16030 Preserve Marketplace Blvd., in Odessa.The office is now accepting new patients. Appointments can be made by calling 813591-3800.
HOOTERS SUPPORTS MOFFITT
Hooters Management Corporation virtually presented a check for $52,905 to Moffitt Cancer Center, in a Zoom event.The donation represented the proceeds from the 2019 “Give a Hoot” program, and supports a grant awarded through the V Foundation for Cancer Research. The donation will help support the cutting-edge work Moffitt researchers and physicians are doing to ensure patients are receiving the very best cancer care today and leading to new breakthroughs tomorrow, according to a news release.
Pasco schools spending ‘Penny’ wisely
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The Penny for Pasco Oversight Committee has submitted its annual report regarding the school district’s spending of Penny for Pasco tax proceeds. The one-page report, dated Feb. 2, concluded that “the promises made by the school district to the voters of Pasco County have thus far been kept.” The oversight committee receives reports from school district leaders of construction services, finance services, maintenance services, and planning services about student and population data, budgeting, funds collected and spent, and
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project status updates, the report says. It notes that the district remains ahead of schedule and is ready to meet the needs of the district’s growing population. “In this seventh year of the second cycle, revenue remains good, in spite of all the challenges presented by COVID 19. Current collections are almost 27% above calculated projections,” the committee reports. “We are pleased to inform you that real progress is being made with several Penny projects. Zephyrhills High School and Northwest Elementary School will complete their remodeling this summer. Marlowe Elementary has a new wing and
construction is now underway at Hudson Middle School,” the report adds. The committee also “continues to assure voters and the community that the money collected is being prudently used for the purposes intended,” the report says. In addition to receiving the oversight committee’s report, the Pasco County School Board, in a separate action, reappointed these community members who voluntarily serve on the committee for a two-year term: Gary Evans, Hugh Townsend, Olive (Tom) Massey, Niko Tzoumas and Paul McClintock. They will serve for the calendar years 2021 and 2022.
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HOMES FOR SALE LAND O LAKES Perfect getaway retreat just north of Tampa! 2 bedroom, 2 bath A Frame on beautiful West Lake Ellis. Relax on in your Florida room and gaze on the beautiful water lilies or gather your friends to water ski or fish for a great the weekend getaway. If you want more excitement, this retreat is located in Land O Lakes not far from dining, shopping and entertainment. Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712
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Looking for a New Career? We Were e you affected by Covvid-19? AMSKILLS’ CAREER DISCOVERY WORKSHOP MA MAY BE FOR YOU!
MANUF FA ACTUR RING JOBS DISCOVER OV RY Y WORKSHOP
AmSkills, a Pasco County-based job skills program is conducting a Career Discovvery Wo Workshop on Saturday, March 6 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., for adults wanting to launch a new career or willinng to transition their existing skills into a new career in the manufacturing industry. The program is absolutely FREE, F but pre-registration is required at AmSkills.org/RegisterNow.
Sat., Marrch 6 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. 14013 N. 22nd St., S Tampa (University Areaa Complex)
The AmSkills Program is a two-step process leading to “guaranteed job interviewss with multiple employers.” The first step is to attend a 1-day workshop to work together as a team to build haands-on project, while learning about the many exciting career opportunities in the manufacturing industry in Tam mpa Bay.
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Register at www w..amsk kills.org
multiple hands-on projects learning blueprint reading and measurements intro to multiple careers in manufacturing obtaining an OSHA Safety Certifficate tours to local manufacturers job interview guidance, preparation & coaching
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Bootcamp graduates receive a Certificate of Completion and are guaranteed job inteerviews with multiple employers on the final day. “Most people do not realize that Ta Tampa Bay has the largest concentration of manuufacturers in the State of Florida,” said Tom Mudano, CEO O of AmSkills. “Our Mission is to Transform Lives Through Wo Workforce Training and Apprenticeships and it is very rewarding to see this vision help so manny people.”
AmSkills’ Key Programs
Transforming Lives Through g Wo Workforce Tr Training g
RECRUIT - High School Manufacturing Academies: Provide instructors, curriculum, equipment and other resources to two area high schools. - Career Discovery Bootcamps: A fast-track, rapid employment program that guarantees job interviews with multiple employers. Sets up temporary training centers in low-income neighborhoods to overcome transportation problems.
TRAIN Pre-Apprenticeships: AmSkills provides graduates of the Bootcamp and employed workers additional foundational skills training and pre-apprenticeships Advanced Manufacturing: Advanced training in manual machining, CNC, mechatronics, and other manufacturing trades.
SUST TAIN - Apprenticeships: Assists employers in creating Apprenticeship Programs; providing Apprenticeship-Related Training Instruction - Career Coaching: AmSkills coaching to accomplish long-term career success AmSkills is a 501(c)3 nonprofit with a mission to transform lives and strengthen communities through workforce training and apprenticeships.
AmSkills is dedicated to providing haands-on skills training to youth, adults and veterans for high-demand ong-term manufacturing careers that result in lo employment for its graduates. Since it was established in 2014, AmSkills has trained and hellped find fulltime manufacturing employment for hundreds h of local residents. kills Here are three stories on how AmSk made a difference. Nikki was a homeless mother of three childrreen. After grraduating in 2018 frrom AmSkills’ PrreeApprrenticeship e Prro ogram, r she was hirred by TRU Simulation + Tr Training and soon afterwarrd moved frro om Metrro opolitan o Ministries to an apartment of her own n. “Thank you all for believing in me and allowing me to t grrow. ow. Finallyy, y, I can give my kids and myself the best life. l I couldn't have done this without your support,” ” writes Nikki. Robert attended AmSkills’ Yo Youth Prree--Apprrenticeship Prrogra ram in high school, and after he grraduated, secured a job at a Pa Pasco County manu ufacturrer, er, wherree he gained valuable experience while participating p in the AmSkills Mechatrro onics Apprenticeeship, and attending classes at Pasco Hernando State College. After earning his two-year degrreee, Ro obert transferrreed
to the University of Centrral Florida (UCF), wherre he is completing his engineering degree. Robert’s company is paying for his UCF education, and after he grraduates, he will move back to Pa Pasco to work for his compa any as an engineerr. Kevin was a homeless veteran when n he enterred AmSkills’’ Bootcamp prro ogra ram. He atttended the 2-week boot camp in January 2020, and was immediately hirred by TSE, a Pinellas County manufacturerr.. He was able to trransition out of homelessness within one month of employment and has recently been prromoted. o K Keevin’s participation in the AmSkills Bootcamp truly transfo tr formed d his hi life lif within ithi a short h t period eriod of time time.
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MEDICARE INFO SESSIONS
The Area Agency on Aging of PascoPinellas will present these Medicare information sessions, via Zoom: • Feb. 11 at 11 a.m.: Medicare Part C Advantage Plans • Feb. 11 at noon: Medicare Basics with SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) • Feb. 13 at 10 a.m.: Medicare 101 with SHINE • Feb. 17 at 10 a.m.: Medicare Part C Advantage Plans • Feb. 17 at noon: Medicare Preventative Services • Feb. 18 at 10 a.m.: Medicare Part D Drug Plan • Feb. 18 at noon: Medicare 101 with SHINE • Feb. 23 at 12:30 p.m.: Medicare Basics with SHINE • Feb. 25 at 10 a.m.: Medicare 101 with SHINE • Feb. 25 at noon: Medicare Part C Advantage Plans Registration is required. For information, contact Geralyn Fortney at 727-570-9696, ext. 273 or Geralyn.fortney@aaapp.org.
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The Alliance for Health Communities will host a Youth Leadership Summit on Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., through free virtual training. The event will feature guest speakers, a free Grub Hub certificate for lunch, and games and prizes. Volunteer hours will be available. Register at EventBrite.com, and search for STAND Leadership Summit, or email stand@empoweredcommunities.org.
BLOOD DRIVE
Kia of Wesley Chapel, 28555 State Road 54, will host a OneBlood Blood Drive with the Big Red Bus on Feb. 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. According to OneBlood:“If helping your community is part of your New Year’s Resolution, we invite you to come out and donate blood to help patients in local area hospitals. You can make a different this year!”
SENIOR HEALTH FAIR
The East Pasco Family YMCA, 37301 Chapel Hill Loop in Zephyrhills, will host a Senior Health Fair on Feb. 24 from noon to 3 p.m. Social distancing will be enforced, so participants must reserve a time slot to limit the number of individuals at the fair at any given time. To make a reservation, call 813-780-9622.
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The weekly support group GriefShare will meet at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, on Wednesdays from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. The group is designed to help those who have lost a loved one rebuild their life. The next meeting is Feb. 24. The group will meet through June 2. For information, call 813-949-4565.
NEW APPOINTMENT Premier Community HealthCare has announced that Jennifer Lineburg has joined its executive team as chief human resources officer. Lineburg joins Premier from Raymond James in St. Petersburg, where she served as a human resources director, a position in which she supported internal client groups and coached leaders on organizational design and effectiveness. As the new chief officer, Lineburg has extensive experience with selection processes, employee relations, conflict resolution, training and development, coaching teams and individuals for success, and improving human resources processes. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of North Florida, and a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology from Walden University. “I was instantly drawn to the mission and dedication of this organization,” said Lineburg, in a news release.“I look forward to continuing the good work of talent acquisition and creating a culture of excellence and engagement for all Premier employees.” Premier Community HealthCare opened its doors in 1979, and now has more than 200 employees among 12 locations in Pasco and Hernando counties. The employees care for approximately 37,000 patients each year. For information, visit PremierHC.org.
WALK FOR LIFE The inaugural Walk for Life, in support of Oasis Pregnancy Centers, will take place on Feb. 27 at the Tampa Bay Baptist Conference Center, 15601 Lake Magdalene Blvd., in Tampa. Check-in is at 9 a.m., followed by the walk at 9:30 a.m. Participate on your own or with a team and collect incentive awards.Those walking can choose between a 1-mile to 3-mile route. This is a family friendly event that also will include a bounce house, balloons, snow cones, popcorn and cotton candy. For more information, visit BabyStepsForLife.org.
ONCOLOGY STAFF MOVES
Advanced Cancer Treatment Centers has announced that its radiation oncology staff has moved to 15211 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville, just east of the Suncoast Parkway on State Road 50. These providers are seeing and treating all patients at the new location: • Dr. Clayton Alonso, radiation oncology • Dr. Peter Zavitsanos, radiation oncology • Dr.Aaron Denson, hematology oncology For information, visit ACTCHealth.com.
The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about available classes, seminars, lectures and events regarding health and wellness issues. Hospitals, doctors, individual practitioners and anyone related to the health care industry can submit information, at least two weeks in advance, to be considered for publication. Photos of events, recognitions and so on, also are welcome. Submissions should include who, what, where, when, cost, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. This information should be emailed to news@lakerlutznews.com.
Pasco loan program The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Pasco County is stepping forward to help businesses that are economically affected by COVID-19. The primary focus will be on COVID-19required renovations in order to protect employees and customers, according to the Pasco County website. By creating a safer environment, businesses can instill trust and confidence among employees and customers who interact with your facilities. Here are the details: • Loan Amounts: The maximum loan amount is determined by the project, not to exceed $120,000. For every $60,000 funded, the borrower must create or save one full-time job. • Loan Term:The loan term will be based on the borrower’s ability to repay, generally 60 months. • Promissory Note: Prior to receiving program funding, approved loan recipients must execute a Promissory Note with Pasco County. Eligible funding uses: • Alterations or modifications that follow the State of Florida guidelines, CDC Safety
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Shanique Wright and her husband, Eugene Hicks III, and their son, Eugene Hicks IV, stand near their new Dade City home. Wright is a veteran of the U.S. Army and recently moved into a mortgage-free home, thanks to Wells Fargo and Operation Homefront.
Home, sweet home — and, mortgage-free The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report U.S.Army veteran Shanique Wright and her family recently moved into their mortgage-free home in Dade City, thanks to Wells Fargo and Operation Homefront. Wright joined the Army National Guard in 2008, and was deployed to two different locations in Iraq between 2009 and 2010, according to a news release. She moved to Tampa in 2012 to be a caretaker for her grandmother and was medically discharged in 2014. The veteran had been living with her husband, Eugene Hicks III, and their 5-yearold son, Eugene Hicks IV, in a small duplex, but were unable to purchase their own home. They moved into their new home on Jan. 21. Now, they live near the Veterans Administration hospital where Eugene works and Shanique receives treatments. They also live close to outdoor recreational
opportunities for their son. Through Operation Homefront’s Permanent Homes for Veterans program, formerly known as Homes on the Homefront, Wright will work with an Operation Homefront financial counselor and a caseworker to build savings, reduce debt and to grow relationships in the community. Once she and her family successfully complete the program, they will receive the deed to the home. To date, Operation Homefront has worked with like-minded partners, such as Wells Fargo, to provide more than 600 military families with mortgage-free homes, worth a total of $90 million in home equity. Since 2012, Wells Fargo has donated more than 140 homes to Operation Homefront, and more than 400 homes to nonprofit organizations, valued at over $60 million, for veterans and Gold Star families across the 50 states.
Measures or GBAC Star Accreditation requirements • Repairs and modifications of existing facilities that are capital in nature • Provide accommodations for vulnerable populations • Improve blighted properties to ensure customers feel safe to support a resilient local economy • Create new or retain full-time employment opportunities for low- and moderate-income eligible areas negatively affected by the COVID-19 Pandemic Registered businesses, nonprofit organizations and property owners with locations in Pasco County are eligible for the loans. Eligible businesses cannot have a delinquent debt to the county, and must be current on all permits, licenses, fees and taxes. For each loan, borrowers must make capital improvements to the property, which may include bringing site improvements up to existing code. To find out more about application requirements, email Troy Jackson, program manager, at Tjackson@MyPasco.net, or call him at 727-815-7092, ext. 2350.
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irginia Kramer, 98, of Crossville, TN., passed away on January 28th, 2021, at Signature Health Care of Fentress County, Jamestown, TN. She was born on December 10th, 1922, in Tampa, Fl. to Howard and Elizabeth Wilsky. One of her greatest accomplishments in life was being a member of the American Legion Auxillary for 82 years. She wrote articles and sold ads for the Lutz Party Line. Her hobbies included traveling and going on cruises with her late husband. She also loved doing Crochet, Embroidery, and quilting. She also enjoyed researching her family history, and keeping up with the Geneology on her Mother’s side of the family. She will be fondly remembered for her kindness and her constant smile. She is preceded in death by her husband (Ben Kramer), a daughter (Mary Williams), and a son (Jimmy Easterbrook). She leaves behind her brother Fred Wilsky, 4 daughters, Joanne (Gene) Grohman, Sherry Erickson, Linda (Bill) Kebler, and Barbara Cooper, as well as a son Howard (Irene) Easterbrook. She was also a proud grandmother to 10 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren, and 1 great, great grandchild. There will be a graveside service on Feb. 13th, at 2:00 pm. at Floral Memory Gardens, 37701 Clinton Avenue, in Dade City, Fl. Services are being provided by Hodges Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to the American Legion Post #108, P.O. Box 727, Land O’ Lakes, Fl. 33639
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