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Schools reopen, amid COVID concerns
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The debate over whether masks will be required in Pasco County Schools is over, in Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning’s mind. “That issue has been settled.The governor (Gov. Ron DeSantis) has taken that issue on, as his issue.The governor has made that decision.There is no local decision-making
regarding masks.And, he has said there will not be a mask mandate. We understand that,” Browning said. The issue of quarantining people who have been exposed to COVID-19, however, is another matter. “I know there’s been a lot of questions about quarantining,” Browning said at the July 27 Pasco County School Board meeting. He told board members that he and members of his staff met with Mike Napier,
administrator for the Florida Department of Health-Pasco County, and members of Napier’s team. They discussed issues relating to COVID and the coming school year. “As far as quarantining goes, that was the main issue that staff wanted to talk about yesterday (during that meeting),” Browning said. See SCHOOLS, page 11A
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Dade City Council debates proposed rate, then adopts it By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
Dade City property owners won’t see an increase in their ad valorem tax rate for fiscal year 2021-2022. Despite a debate, the Dade City Commission voted 4-1 to adopt the tentative millage rate at 7.14 mills for fiscal year 2021-2022 — the same rate as it has been for several years. Under state law, once a tentative millage rate has been set, the city cannot raise it before the start of the fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. The commission has the option, however, to reduce the rate before then. At the rate of 7.14 mills, ad valorem tax revenues in the city’s general fund are anticipated to levy an estimated $2.3 million, an increase of slightly more than $262,000, up from this year’s $2 million budget. The breakdown of ad valorem revenues comes from the assessed value of the city’s 1,857 single-family homes, of which 1,231 have at least one exemption, according to city records. A mill represents $1 in tax for every $1,000 worth of a property’s taxable assessed value. The property tax on a home assessed at $95,000 at 7.14 mills would yield $678, for example. Public hearings on the proposed millage rate are scheduled for Sept. 15 and Sept. 27.
DEBATE ENSUES OVER TENTATIVE MILLAGE RATE
Commissioners debated at length, during their July 27 meeting, before adopting the tentative rate. Dade City Manager Leslie Porter offered no staff recommendation, leaving the direction up to elected leaders. Mayor Pro Tem Jim Shive made a motion to set the tentative property tax rate at 7.14 mills, quickly seconded by Commissioner Normita Woodard. Then, Commissioner Knute Nathe opened up discussion. He advocated setting a higher millage, at 7.497 mills, to provide greater financial flexibility to fund various initiatives discussed during a preceding 90-minute budget workshop. See TAX, page 11A
B INSIDE, PAGE 1B
FRED BELLET
Training the next generation Shannon Saile, right, a national champion softball pitcher at the University of Oklahoma, speaks to a group of advanced pitchers during a water and shade break at her pitching clinic at the Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex softball field. See the story in Sports, page 12A.
Wearing a protective fielder's mask, 9-year-old Grace Peters, of Land O' Lakes, was ready to take her turn on the mound. Peters was among those in the intermediate division at the Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic.
Coach Charlie Aliano of the Cincinnati Reds lends some batting knowledge to 13-year old Olivia James, of New Port Richey. Aliano, of Land O' Lakes, assisted during the Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic.
Zephyrhills draft budget shows big jump By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
The City of Zephyrhills anticipates a roughly 24.5% increase over this year’s budget. The proposed budget for 2021-2022 draft is estimated at nearly $75.3 million. That compares to this year’s budget of roughly $60.5 million. The proposed budget also is significantly more than it was in the 2019-2020 and 2018-2019 fiscal years, which were approximately $66.3 million and $59.4 million, respectively. The city’s proposed budget is based on a 6.35 millage rate, assessed on taxable value of aggregate property of just over $946.6 million within the city. At that rate, it is expected to generate about $5.7 million in ad valorem revenues, based on a 95% collection rate. Within the proposed budget are anticipated leaps in the special revenue fund (estimated at slightly more than $13.1 million in the coming year, compared to about $7.2 million this year); the utility fund (estimated at nearly $22.8 million, up from slightly more than $16.4 million); and the utility impact fee fund (estimated at nearly $6.3 million, up from slightly more than $4.3 million), respectively. Estimates for other funds are similar to previous years. Those include the general fund, at slightly more than $15.6 million; the Community Redevelopment Agency fund, at nearly $800,000; the impact fee fund at slightly more than $6.1 million; the airport fund, at slightly more than $8.4 million and the sanitation fund at nearly $2 million.
City of Zephyrhills draft budget for fiscal year 2021-2020* Estimated total balanced budget: $75.3 Breakdown by fund • General fund: $15.6 million • Special revenue fund:$13.1 million • Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) fund: $880,000 • Impact fee fund: $6.1 million • Utility impact fee fund: $6.3 million • Utility fund: $22.8 million • Airport fund: $8.4 million • Sanitation fund: $2 million
* Figures are rounded
City Manager Billy Poe offered a comprehensive overview of the proposed budget to the Zephyrhills City Council, during its July 26 meeting. Public hearings on the proposed property tax rate and budget are scheduled for Sept. 13 and Sept. 27, both at 6 p.m., at Zephyrhills City Hall, 5335 Eighth St., Zephyrhills.
BIG-TICKET PROJECTS ABOUND
Poe during the meeting detailed some of the big-ticket items — including the multimillion expansion of the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis and Wellness Center, which comes in as the highest single-ticket item on the books.That project has a state appropriation of slightly less than $4.7 million.
The municipality received the state funds to construct additional outdoor hard tennis courts, as well as a 30,000-square-foot indoor tennis facility with the capability for other sports and activities, such as soccer, ping pong, banquets and ceremonies. The budget item drawing the greatest reaction from council members involves the Simons Road Phase II project, to finish roadwork linking Eiland Boulevard to Fort King Road. The project carries a price tag of $2.3 million, causing some council members to question its cost. The work — funded through transportation impact fees — calls for paving about 800 feet of roadway. That’s compared to Simons Road Phase I, which cost about $2.1 million, but required about 1.1 miles of roadwork. Phase I was completed in February 2020, paving Simons Road from Eiland Boulevard to the northern boundary of The Links at Silver Oaks. Phase II will continue from the Silver Oaks subdivision to Fort King Road, making a continuous link between Eiland Boulevard and Fort King Road, creating a north-south connector, providing residents on the north end of town another option to get onto Eiland Boulevard. The cost of phase II drew consternation from the dais. Councilman Lance Smith was quick to question the cost, as did Council President Alan Knight. Knight characterized the estimated cost as “almost ridiculous.” See BUDGET, page 11A
Rezoning for a new Land O’ Lakes Office development zoning sought in Lutz, on State Road 54 subdivision recommended By B.C. Manion
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of a rezoning for a new subdivision on the southwest corner of Lake Patience Road and Perdew Drive, in Land O’ Lakes. Applicants Pulte Home Company LLC and Curtis L. Law Inc., are requesting a change in zoning from an agricultural district to a master-planned unit development to allow 240 single-family homes on roughly 80 acres. The land currently is occupied by a residence and agricultural pursuits, according to materials in the planning board’s agenda backup. The county’s planners have found the request to be consistent with the county’s land development code and comprehensive plan, and they recommend approval of the request. Clarke Hobby, an attorney representing the applicants, said the request calls for roughly 240 units, which is far fewer than the 400 possible under the comprehensive
plan designation. He also pointed to other master-planned unit developments in the area and noted that the site is located in the urban service area, where the county is encouraging most of its growth. One resident raised concerns about traffic on Lake Patience and about any potential impacts the new development would have on an adjacent community’s two private lakes. But Hobby said,“There’s a dedication of right of way for a future collector that runs along the eastern boundary, and I believe the lady who just spoke lives to the east of that, so our project, per se, will not end up being immediately adjacent to the road that she’s talking about or her subdivision.” He also noted there is no access to the other community’s lakes. The planning board voted unanimously, with Planning Commissioner Roberto Saez absent, to recommend approval of the rezoning. The application now goes to the Pasco County Commission, which has final jurisdiction over zoning and land use issues.
bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County Planning Commission is recommending approval of a proposed office development on a 1.67-acre site at the southwest corner of State Road 54 and Meadowbrook Drive, in Lutz. The site is the same one where neighbors vigorously resisted a proposed gas station and convenience store. That pursuit was dropped after the Pasco County Commissioner denied a request to amend the county’s comprehensive plan to allow general commercial uses to be considered at that location. The county board’s action then prompted the applicant, Kiddie Campus University Inc., to change its previously filed companion rezoning request from one seeking commercial uses to one that allows a professional office use. A land use amendment is not needed to accommodate the office request. Attorney Barbara Wilhite, representing the applicant, told the planning board that her client has amended the rezoning request to office, in reaction to the county board “not wanting to see commercial uses at that location.” She continued:“We heard over and over and over at both (previous) public hearings that office would be compatible, commercial would not. “I think there was a recognition that this property is on State Road 54, at a signalized intersection, and it’s not appropriate for residential use,” she said. Her client is seeking the least intense office use,Wilhite said, adding that in previous
public hearings involving the site, the neighbors remarked that “what’s nice about office is, it’s occupied during the day, it’s not occupied at night, generally speaking, or on weekends.” While previous hearings on the proposed gas station attracted a sizable number of opponents, only two people spoke at the planning commission’s July 22 hearing. Jennifer Robertson, who lives on Riverstone Drive, told the planning board:“I don’t object to it, only because I know something will go there.” However, she voiced concerns about flooding and also asked that the neighbors be able to weigh in on what the development looks like. “We do want something that looks nice for our neighborhood, since it’s within our neighborhood,” she said. Douglas Grant, who also lives in the area, said he doesn’t object to the portion of the rezoning that abuts State Road 54. However, the southern lot, which is also part of the rezoning, represents a commercial intrusion into a residential neighborhood, he said. He said he would drop his objection if the southern property was used as an area for a retention pond, or if the development met a number of other conditions. Attorney Wilhite said her client is seeking a “low-intensity office” use. She added:“We will be a good neighbor. We have worked with the neighbors before.” The planning board voted unanimously, with Planning Commissioner Roberto Saez absent, to recommend approval of the rezoning.
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PUBLISHER’S NOTE
The harder choice is usually the best one By Diane Kortus Publisher
A few weeks back,The Laker/Lutz News was named the best weekly newspaper in its class by the Florida Press Association.This obviously is a huge honor for our staff, and we greatly appreciate this recognition of our work. I also believe it is an acknowledgment of how doing the harder thing is usually the right thing. I have tried to live my life and manage my company by making decisions with a longterm perspective, while listening to my moral compass. I’ve learned that instant gratification often backfires, so the decisions I make are often the harder choice, and ones that take longer to see positive results. I held true to this when COVID-19 hit last year, when many of our advertisers asked to pull out of the newspaper because they were forced to close their business. Since advertising accounts for 100% of our revenue, my staff and I needed to make decisions quickly to keep our newspaper going in a time when readers needed our news more than ever. One of the first decisions we made was to increase our local news coverage, instead of cutting back. Editor B.C. Manion and her staff did an exceptional job explaining how COVID affected our local schools, government, businesses and just about everything else. Her team gave readers information they needed to be safe and prepared, and they shared heart-felt stories about people and community groups, and how they adapted to the COVID way of life. It was this stewardship of local news that explored the impacts of COVID on the daily lives of our readers, along with continued excellence in coverage of the people and communities we serve, that led to the 27 awards we received from the Florida Press Association, for our work in Pasco and Hillsborough counties. “It’s safe to say that all of our work was affected by COVID, as we shifted gears to cover just about everything differently than we did in the past,” Manion said. As I’m sure it was for you, this past year has been very challenging, and I have never seen my employees work harder. In addition
to Manion’s contributions, staff writer Kevin Weiss expanded our coverage in East Pasco through aggressive reporting on Dade City and Zephyrhills city government.At the same time, he continued providing outstanding stories about community sports and recreation. When COVID shut down just about everything, Mary Rathman, our editorial assistant, responded by searching out ways for our readers to take advantage of myriad virtual activities, published in our What’s Happening section. She also alerted readers on ways to keep healthy, through the virtual lectures and activities we shared in Health & Wellness. As our production days shifted, artists Matt Mistretta and Stefanie Burlingame responded by working many weekend hours to put together the paper’s layout with outstanding, award-winning design — making our stories inviting and easy to read. Photographers also helped us to continue to tell the story of community life, despite the pandemic.That’s where readers played an important role. Their images showcased our local wildlife, community events and big moments. In fact, contributions by photographers Lillian Cucuzza and Steve Vinik were so outstanding, they received Florida Press awards. When restaurants began to reopen, our marketing team of Kelli Carmack and Katie Fernandez highlighted them through Foodie Friday, a weekly video series about area restaurants.We share those videos on Facebook and Instagram, so be sure to look for Season 2 of Foodie Friday, which kicks off on Aug. 6. Besides retaining robust news coverage, other decisions we made using the “harder choice” philosophy included preserving our circulation, offering flexible sales programs to businesses and hiring employees to expand our social media programs — giving readers the choice to receive our news in print, on our website and on our social media platforms. I never faltered in the belief that readers want and need The Laker/Lutz News. I am so pleased that the temptation to save money by reducing news coverage or cutting circulation did not carry the day. By making those hard choices then, our company is stronger now than it has ever been. Being named the best weekly newspaper in Florida is a gratifying honor — one that we happily share with our readers.
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What’s Happening
Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge
BOYS & GIRLS CLUB
YARN FOR A CAUSE
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The Boys & Girls Club of Pasco County will be the featured charitable organization at all five Pasco County Tax Collector offices, for the month of August.The goal of the club is to help young people reach their full potential as productive, responsible and caring members of the community.The club provides a safe environment for youth to socialize, and it assists in mentoring students who need academic assistance to succeed in school and in life. For information on how to donate, contact Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.
The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a “Yarn for a Cause” group on Aug. 12 at 6 p.m., to create projects (such as blankets) for nursing homes, and other fun and creative items. Participants can learn new techniques and show off their own projects.The group will get together in the library meeting room. Registration is required online at PascoLibraries.org.
The Nature Coast Volunteer Center has launched a 9/11 Cards & Letters to First Responders Project. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, and has been designated as a National Day of Service and Remembrance. The public is invited to participate by sending a card or letter of appreciation and encouragement to our first responders, to Nature Coast Volunteer Center, 2804 W. Marc Knighton Court, Key #4, Lecanto, FL 34461. All sentiments received will be delivered to the community’s first responders on or around 9/11. For more information, call 352-527-5959.
CLASSIC MOVIES
The Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., in downtown Tampa, will again host its Summer Classics Movie Series. Upcoming shows include: • “Singin’ in the Rain” (1952: G: Musical), Aug. 8 at 3 p.m., and Aug. 12 at 7:30 p.m. • “Young Frankenstein” (1974: PG: Comedy),Aug. 15 at 3 p.m., and Aug. 19 at 7:30 p.m. • “Casablanca” (1942: PG: Drama),Aug. 22 at 3 p.m., and Aug. 26 at 7:30 p.m. • “The Black Pirate Adventure” (1926: Not Rated: Silent),Aug. 29 at 3 p.m., and Sept. 2 at 7:30 p.m., $13 at the box office, $15 online, and $10 for theater members. Unless otherwise noted, all films are $10 at the box office, $12 online, and $7 for theater members. For information, visit TampaTheatre.org.
RAISED-BED GARDENING
Participants can make a clay cactus ring dish.All materials are included. For information, call 727-861-3049.
NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY
The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society will meet on Aug. 10 at 7 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.The guest speaker will be J. Mike Kell on the topic of “Bluebirds: 2012 to 2020.”The presentation will explain the West Pasco Audubon Bluebird Project, which provides nest boxes and education about how to help the bluebird thrive. Meetings are free.There will not be any refreshments or drinks available; guests can bring their own and must wear a mask. For information, call 813-469-9597.
RIFLE SAFETY PROGRAM
The Dade City Gun Club will offer the NRA’s FIRST Step (Firearm Instruction, Responsibility and Safety Training) Rifle Program for area youth and those interested in learning how to properly handle a rifle, on Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (with a lunch break).The cost is $45 per person and includes the use of a rifle (Ruger 10/22), ammunition, NRA training materials, refreshments, professional instruction, and a safe shooting environment. Participants can use their own rifle, but it must be approved in advance by an instructor. Deadline to register is Aug. 4. For information, contact Larry Shrewsbury at LShrews1@aol.com or 813-929-8800.
FLIP CALENDAR
The Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road in New Port Richey, will offer a teen takeand-make kit on Aug. 10, for grades eight to 12. Participants can make a desktop flip calendar. Kits are available while supplies last, one kit per person. Pick up the kit and then follow along with the how-to video posted on Aug. 11 at 4 p.m. For information, call 727-861-3049.
FAMILY SKILLS
The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host “Story Strong:A Family Wellness Program” on Aug. 10 at 10 a.m.The group session will focus on learning skills related to families and relationships.There will be a guest speaker on genealogy. For information, contact Amaris Papadopoulos at 727-8613020 or amarisp@pascolibraries.org.
CLAY RING DISH
The Regency Park Library, 9701 Little Road in New Port Richey, will offer an adult takeand-make craft kit from Aug. 9 to Aug. 14.
MASTER GARDENING
The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will offer a free UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension seminar on Aug. 10 at 2 p.m. Participants can learn how raisedbed gardening can help to solve vegetable gardening issues due to poor soil. Preregistration is required at PascoLibraries.org.
NETWORKING GROUP
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on Aug. 10 at 7:30 a.m., at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center, 6585 Simons Road in Zephyrhills.The guest speaker will be Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley.
ROCK PAINTING
The Hugh Embry Library staff will host an arts-and-crafts social at the Dade City Senior Center, 13853 15th St., in Dade City, on Aug. 11 at 10:30 a.m. Participants can paint rocks. Space is limited. Registration is online at PascoLibraries.org.
HOME ESCAPE PLAN
The Hillsborough County Public Library will offer a “Safety Superhero Academy: Escape Plan,” in partnership with Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, on Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m., for all ages. Participants can learn how to make a home escape plan or practice home fire drills.There will be an opportunity for questions after the presentation. Registration is online through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. For information, call 813-273-3652.
The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension Service will offer a free Meet and Greet preview session on Aug. 12 at 3 p.m., for anyone interested in applying for the 2021 Master Gardener Volunteer Training Class scheduled to begin on Sept. 21.The Meet and Greet will take place at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.All potential applicants for the class must attend the Aug. 12 session. Preregistration is required online at bit.ly/eventbritepasco.
SPIRIT OF WOODSTOCK
The three-day, camping-optional Spirit of Woodstock event will take place Aug. 13 to Aug. 15, at the Sertoma Youth Ranch in Brooksville.The music festival includes children’s activities, such as hayrides, and arts and crafts; a Hippie Hound & Pooch Parade contest; Best Hippie Contest; Grooviest Campsite Contest; a free yoga class (Aug. 14); live music, food, merchandise, and more. Campfires will be allowed.This is a pet-friendly event. Singleday tickets and weekend passes are available. For information and tickets, visit SpiritOfWoodstock.org.
SHREK JR.
Live Oak Theatre will present “Shrek Jr.” Aug. 13 to Aug. 15, at the Carol and Frank Morsani Center, 21030 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville.There are matinees at 2:30 p.m., as well as 7:30 p.m. show times. Seats are $15 for adults and $8 for children ages 13 and younger, when accompanied by an adult. For a schedule and tickets, visit LiveOakTheatre.square.site/, email liveoakboxoffice@gmail.com, or call 352593-0027.
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WHAT’S,
from page 4A
15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, will present “The Spanish American War and Florida” on Aug. 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can visit the museum’s collection of artifacts, including a KraggJorgensen rifle.The special guest will be historian Joe Blunt, dressed in Spanish American War regalia. Presentations will be made at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for students. For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.
WORLD SUPERSTITIONS The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Superstitions Around the World” on Aug. 13 at 6:30 p.m., for all ages. Participants can learn the stories behind a variety of superstitions. Registration is online through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. For information, call 813-273-3652.
NEW CLUB LOCATION The East Pasco Republican Club meets the third Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., now at its new location, at Shepherd of the Hills Church, 37015 Orange Valley Lane in Dade City. Refreshments are served at the meetings.The next meeting is Aug. 17, and the guest speaker will be pastor Gabriel Papadopoulos, who worked for Pasco County for 31 years.
Cannon Auditorium, Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City, to benefit the Thomas Promise Foundation.Attendance is by table purchase only. Each table seats eight people (dinner is included). Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., for dinner, and the concert will start at 7:30 p.m.Table purchases are tax deductible. For information and to reserve a table, call 813782-0000 (corrected phone number).
WATERMELON FESTIVAL The second-annual Lutz Watermelon Festival on the Farm is scheduled for Aug. 28 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at 109 Willow Bend Parkway in Lutz, at the corner of U.S. 41 and County Line Road.The event will include a Lil Miss & Sir Watermelon Pageant (youth age groups and prizes), a watermelon toss contest, a watermeloneating contest, watermelon sales, live music, food trucks, farm fun, and local vendors. For information, text 813-2993600.
THE BELLAMY BROTHERS
BABY SHOWER
The Bellamy Brothers will perform a fundraiser concert,“An Evening With The Bellamy Brothers,” on Aug. 26 at the Dan
The Largest Baby Shower is scheduled for Sept. 11 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., at the Evolve Event Center, 4575 Pet Lane in Lutz. There will be food trucks, games, a maternity fashion show, vendors, raffles and free giveaways.The cost is $5 per person. Children age 5 and younger are free. For ticket and vendor information, email tlbserver@gmail.com, or call 813997-3379.
The Starkey Ranch Theatre, Library and Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, soon will begin to offer in-person programming. Its hours will be Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The center can be reached by calling 727-815-7126.
FACIAL SPECIA ALIST Surgical and Non-Surgica al
The Tiki Cove, 2700 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, will host a Moon Market on Aug. 21 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.This family and pet-friendly event will include more than 20 local vendors, fresh produce, live music, cold drinks, made-to-order food, and more.Admission is free.
In-person programming
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ARTISTS SHOW The Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center is accepting entries for its “EMERGing Artists Show,” a visual arts show that will be exhibited in the main theater through September.All entrants must be relatively new to displaying work, with three years or less of experience.The deadline for submissions is Aug. 21.An art opening/reception is scheduled for Sept. 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.Admission is free. For information or to enter artwork, visit CarrollwoodCenter.org, or contact Michele Stone, art curator, at 813922-8167 or curator@carrollwoodcenter.org.
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MEMORIAL MILE The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel will again hosts its 9/11 Memorial Mile on Sept. 11 at 7:30 a.m., at the Tampa Premium Outlets, in remembrance of the heroes of that day. Participants can run or walk, or take part virtually. Registration is $10 and ends Sept.10. For details and to register, visit tinyurl.com/2yypd8pt.
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Botkins & Spoor Insurance LLC Gives Customers the Best Deals By Nicole Sanchez Special to The Laker / Lutz news
When Larry Botkins became Tom Spoor’s son-in-law in 2014, Botkins had no idea that one day they would be in business with each other. Spoor, who had an insurance agency in upstate New York for 25 years, decided to sell his business in 2016 and retire to his winter Tom Spoor Larry Botkins home in Dade City. In 2019, Botkins expressed interest in insurance, so together relationship where you know the cuswith his father-in-law, the two men tomer, where they live, and just their decided to open Botkins & Spoor overall situation.” Insurance LLC, a full-service independAccording to Spoor, insurance in ent agency in Dade City. Florida is a tough market to do business in “We thought there was a lot of poten- because of insurance fraud, and it's espetial here. We liked the small town envi- cially hard for new agencies to get started. ronment, and there’s a lot going on in It’s also difficult for customers who are Pasco county,” says Botkins. looking to get the most coverage for the Botkins and Spoor have a combined cheapest price. Insurance carriers are total of 30 years’ experience, and serve continuously changing who they will Pasco, Polk, Hillsborough, and Pinellas write insurance for and re-evaluating counties. their market penetration in certain areas. The family-owned agency prides itself “It’s very difficult on the client because on face-to-face interactions, as well as they are constantly being hit with big being able to provide its customers with increases,” says Spoor. the best deals and service. Despite the challenges, Botkins and “It’s your duty as an insurance agency Spoor are dedicated to finding their custo make sure your customer is informed,” tomers the best deals and rates. They can says Botkins. achieve this because they are an indeThe insurance agency’s customer serv- pendent agency that has multiple insurice stands out against competition ance carriers. because of its ability to create real relaFor more information on Botkins & tionships with their clients. Spoor Insurance LLC, call 352-437-5305, “I think that all we have to offer is or stop by their office at 37911 Heather service,” says Spoor. “I like that type of Place, Dade City, FL 33525.
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FILE
This is Rose Beckett, who had her picture taken last year by her family, as she marked her first day as a kindergartener at Bexley Elementary School. Her family shared her photo with us, so we could share it with you.
Seeking first day of school photos The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
The first day of school last year was anything but typical, as some students stayed home to learn and others headed off to traditional school campuses. While it remains unclear what impacts COVID-19 and the delta variant will have on this school year, the vast majority of students will head off to traditional brick-and-mortar schools for the 2021-2022 school year. It has become a tradition at The Laker/Lutz News to share First Day of School photos we receive from families, with our readers. That’s where you come in.We need your help. Please send us your First Day of School photos. The photos can be taken in your home,
on your front porch, before or after school, near the school, at the bus stop, or at another location you prefer. Your child could be heading to prekindergarten, or heading off to college. We welcome group shots of siblings, but please identify each child in the photo, from left to right. When submitting your photo, please tell us your child’s name and age, what community you live in, what school the student attends (or if the child is home-schooled) and the grade of the student. Also, provide contact information, in case we have questions. We’d like to publish our First Day of School photo collection on Sept. 1, so please submit them no later than Aug. 20. Please send your submissions to news@lakerlutznews.com.
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Pasco clerk fights for budget hike By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles has been in the news in recent weeks, as she pushes for a massive budget increase for her office. She raised the issue again, during a July 13 talk with members of the East Pasco Networking Group at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis and Wellness Center in Zephyrhills. Alvarez-Sowles is requesting about $13.3 million in her fiscal 2021-2022 budget, which represents nearly $9 million more than the constitutional officer’s budget this year. She claims the budget hike is needed for her office to fulfill statutory responsibilities for the coming year. Alvarez-Sowles also mentioned a timely concern. She noted she anticipates an increased workload for her office with an influx of court trials and eviction notices, amid the easing of pandemic-related restrictions and moratoriums. “I am concerned that when the court starts ramping up, being able to support the customers when that happens. I want to make sure that we’re there for them, and I don’t want to kill my staff at the same time, in providing those services,”Alvarez-Sowles said. The clerk initially presented her budget increase request in an April 30 letter to Pasco County Commission Chairman Ron Oakley and his county board colleagues. But, the county’s administration has pushed back against the request, particularly Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles and Pasco County Budget Director Robert Goehig. The clerk said the additional funding is needed to satisfy Florida Statute 29.008, which addresses county funding of court-related functions. Generally, the statute details “the county’s obligation to pay on certain things, for technology and for the court-related items that I’m not allowed by law to use my fee-funded budget from courts to pay for,” AlvarezSowles said. Because of this finding, she reasoned,“I submitted a budget to the board that was a lot higher than it had ever been in prior years, ever.” The breakdown of Alvarez-Sowles’ budgetary increase is as follows: • County funding of court-related local requirements computes to about $7.4 million • County funding of board and court-related technology costs (hardware, software,
COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF THE PASCO COUNTY CLERK AND COMPTROLLER
The Pasco Clerk & Comptroller Office is seeking a $13.3 million budget for fiscal year 2021-2022 — an increase of nearly $9 million this year — in order to fulfill statutory responsibilities and provide adequate services countywide, the clerk says.
FILE
Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles was the featured guest speaker during a July 13 East Pasco Networking Group meeting at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center, in Zephyrhills.
programming) totaling nearly $1.25 million • Increases for retirement costs and group health insurance, as well as a pay adjustment of 3%, totaling about $366,000 During the speaking engagement, Alvarez-Sowles told The Laker/Lutz News “the rub” or main disconnect between her office and county leadership “is agreeing on what is and what is not a local requirement,” particularly the $7.4 million request. She contends the county is obligated to fund full-service expenses for the West Pasco Judicial Center courthouse annex in New Port Richey — as opposed to using the clerk’s fee-funded budget for civil and criminal jury trials, and so on. Part of the disagreement,Alvarez-Sowles said, centers around state law only requiring one courthouse in the county seat, which is the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City. With that, county officials have stated they’re not responsible for funding the West Pasco courthouse annex,Alvarez-Sowles explained. She disagrees with their stance: “(They say) like,‘There’s no way we’re responsible to pay for the (West Pasco) courthouse,’ and I’m saying,‘Well, you could have one (court-
house in Dade City) and I wouldn’t have this many expenses,’ but we don’t, and you duplicated services, and I am doing double the work in some situations.” Of lesser note, county administration has since agreed to fund 40% of the clerk’s information technology (IT) costs, or just under $500,000 of the roughly $1.2 million mark. Alvarez-Sowles said that’s inadequate. She claimed the county is obligated to fund technology for the multi-agency criminal justice system (which includes state attorney’s, public defender, courts and clerk). Said Alvarez-Sowles,“All of these services requires IT funding to be able to bring about, so I’m going to continue discussions with the county, because I really need that money for the technologies and things we have planned to serve our community.” Alvarez-Sowles emphasized that she wants to ensure her office is “properly funded” in order to “provide a higher level of service, better services to our community, and I also want to provide the tools to the team.” The constitutional officer, too, underscored the need to be able to offer higher salaries, from entry-level to supervisorial roles within the clerk structure. The entry-level wage at the clerk’s office is $13.28 per hour. This reality makes it tough to compete with area businesses and organizations offering around $15 an hour and, in some cases, paying potential employees to interview for vacancies, she said.
“I need to have competitive salaries,” said Alvarez-Sowles.“Our office is paid very low in our community, and even in comparison to other local government agencies in the community, so there is a big discrepancy.” The situation has caused turnover and has made it difficult to fill vacancies. Employees stay for a year or two and then transfer to another county role or up through the court or state attorney’s office, Alvarez-Sowles said. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic the clerk’s office had about 320 employees, she said. It’s since dropped down to 283 employees, she said. That hampers her operations, she said. “I feel like we are training ground (for other agencies), so I need to have longevity, and I need to be able to plan for succession, and be able to have a stellar team, so I need the funding to pay for the proper salaries,” she said. During the breakfast talk, the clerk also touched on some ongoing initiatives in her office. Those include: • Implementation of a multi-year strategic plan in regards to services and other projects • Partnership with Amscot, authorizing them to accept payments on behalf of the clerk’s office • Online payment expansion to include Apple Pay, Google Pay,Venmo and debit card capabilities (expected by November) • Development of a customer queue management system allowing residents to check wait times and make service appointments online • Provide affordable legal help and attorney consultations for self-represented individuals in civil matters related to divorce, residential landlord/tenant, small claims and so on • E-certification document capabilities for deeds, liens, closings and so on In most jurisdictions, the clerk & comptroller is vested with a large number of administrative duties. This includes clerk of the circuit court, as well as county auditor, ex-officio, clerk of the county commission, finance officer, recorder and treasurer. Residents often use the clerk’s office to pay traffic and criminal fines, initiate or contest a civil case, pursue probate issues and make child support payments. The office also handles domestic violence injunctions, Baker Act and Marchman Act petitions, passport applications, marriage licenses and more.
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Seven Oaks Elementary School, 27633 Mystic Oak Blvd., in Wesley Chapel, will host two Meet the Teacher sessions on Aug. 5, for students and families. Prekindergarten through second-grade students can attend from 10 a.m. to noon, and third-grade through fifth-grade students can attend from noon to 2 p.m. Students must be registered for school in advance. Summer registration hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. At the event, families will need to report to the cafeteria first, to pick up classroom assignments. Both sessions will provide the opportunity to get teacher assignments, meet the teacher, get transportation information, tour the campus, order a yearbook, purchase spirit gear, join the PTA, and get answers to questions about the school. For information, call Seven Oaks at 813794-0700.
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The Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative made two donations to invest in the future of the community through its Educational Foundation, which receives monies from escheated Capital Credits. A donation of $121,000 was made to the existing Central High School, in Brooksville, for new innovative equipment and technology for the classrooms. A $400,000 donation was made to the Kirkland Ranch Academy of Innovation (currently under construction) for new equipment needed to prepare the estimated 1,000 future students for high-wage and high-skills careers.The school is planning for a fall 2022 opening.
MEAL APPLICATIONS
Applications for the Pasco County Schools free and reduced meal plan are now available. Currently, all 2021-2022 students will receive free breakfast and lunch regardless of eligibility. However, Pasco County Schools strongly encourages families to complete a new meal application, as schools receive a portion of their funding based on the percentage of students who qualify. To review the eligibility guidelines and to file an application, visit PascoSchoolMeals.com.
PASCO SCHOOLS BEGIN AUG. 10
Pasco County Schools offers these steps for getting back to school: • Know what the requirements are for immunizations, recommended adolescent vaccinations, waiver information, and information about physicals. • Check with your school for registration days/hours, and read registration requirements carefully. • Prepare for Day One by reviewing afterschool enrichment programs; bell schedules; bus stops; Code of Conduct/Dress Code; free/reduced lunch applications; high school graduation requirements; medications at school; online meal/snack payments; prekindergarten services; school lunch programs; and the school year calendar. • Parents should stay involved during the school year by checking grades online; elementary/curriculum guides; media and library resources; Pasco e-School; tips for parents; volunteer programs; and information on students with disabilities. For more information and links to resources, visit Pasco County Schools at Pasco.k12.fl.us, or its Facebook page.
DEAN’S LIST STUDENTS
The University of Tampa honored 1,758 students who were named to the Dean’s List for the spring semester. Local students from Lutz: Joseph Allen, Jaime Banks, Leigh Dittman, Rye Gapinski, Lisa Jungmann, Ashley Mueller, Connor Molloy,Victoria Nelson, Gage Robinson and Kayla Wittyngham. Students from Odessa: Madeline Atherton, Cole Benjamin, Kaylyn Burroughs, Noah Doble,Amelia Iacovino, Hayley Jewett, Hope Lelekacs, Joshua Luther,Alex Prendes and Olivia Trinder.
Free school supplies There will be a back-to-school drivethru event on Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon, at Life Church, 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel, that will include free school supplies. Students must be present. Giveaways are on a first-come, first-served basis. To donate a backpack through the Sydney Paige Foundation, visit tinyurl.com/h3v5w778. Back-to-School Drive-Thru The Church @ Myrtle Lake, 2017 Reigler Road in Land O’ Lakes, will host a Back-to-School Drive-Thru on Aug. 7 from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a free backpack and school supply giveaway for kindergarten through 12th grade. One backpack per child in attendance, while supplies last. For information, visit MyrtleLake.org. Back-to-School Extravaganza Florida KidCare will present a Backto-School Extravaganza on Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Tampa Premium Outlets. The event will include backpack giveaways, free school supplies, face-painting, games, photo stops, characters, stage performances, and information on family services. For more, call 727674-1464. Back-to-School Bash The First United Methodist Church of Lutz, 960 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, will host a Back-to-School Bash on Aug. 13 starting at 5 p.m., rain or shine. The event will include food trucks, bounce houses, make-and-take crafts, an indoor movie, and more. The Pixar movie,“Monsters University,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. Guests should bring a lawn chair or blanket. Popcorn and movie snacks will be available for purchase, as a fundraiser for the church’s youth mission trip. Those attending also are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for the Christian Social Services Food Pantry. RSVP by Aug. 6. Each preregistered child will receive a gift bag. Sign up at tinyurl.com/59c6rnue. Back-to-School Drive Mitchell’s Coffee Time, 22299 State Road 54, Suite 102, in Land O’ Lakes, is collecting school supplies for a Pasco Kids Helping Kids Back-to-School Drive. Items needed include backpacks, plastic pocket folders, half-inch binders, composition notebooks, paper, pencils/pens, erasers, markers, crayons, colored pencils, glue sticks, pencil cases/pouches, rulers, highlighters, dry erase markers, and one-, three- and five-subject spiral notebooks. For information, visit Facebook.com/KidsHelpingKidsPasco. Shoe & sock drive The Two Good Soles Shoes and Socks Drive is underway through Oct. 22, with the Pasco County government and constitutional offices working together to collect footwear for kids in Pasco County schools. Last year’s drive yielded 1,746 pairs of shoes and 5,773 pairs of socks. Social workers will distribute the items to Pasco County Schools students at the end of October. Drop-off locations/collection boxes are at the offices of the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller, the Pasco County Property Appraiser, and the Pasco County Tax Collector.
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BUDGET, from page 1A Poe said he, too, was surprised by the figure. He explained the cost — an engineer’s estimate — is attributed to the road section traversing wetlands and low areas, requiring box culverts and retaining walls, among other add-ons. Zephyrhills Public Works Director Shane LeBlanc added to Poe’s explanation for the sticker shock, observing economy of scale and current market trends also need to be taken into account. Given the area’s drainage accommodations, the project’s scope is more involved “than just a road section,” LeBlanc explained. LeBlanc went on:“The engineer’s estimate was $2.3 million, and I also had a contractor look at the engineer’s estimate, and the contractor said in this day and age, that price is pretty close, so we’re hoping when we go out to bid, it’ll be less than that, but we’ve got to make sure we have enough in the budget to cover that. “Historically, an engineer’s estimate is high, so that they cover themselves, and we were skeptical and had it looked at, and it’s checked out,” LeBlanc said. One option would be to package the Simons Road Phase II project with several other citywide roadway projects to benefit from economy of scale with discounts on construction mobilization costs, Poe said. “We might be able to get it a little cheaper, a little less expensive,” he reasoned. Smith noted that allocating $2.3 million in the budget for the job might result in higher bids than it would, otherwise. “We always understand, a lot of times, if you have $2.3 million in your budget, the bids are all around $2.3 million,” Smith said. LeBlanc acknowledged that a project’s budgeted amount often is one of the first questions a contractor will ask. But LeBlanc said if the city allotted too little for Simons Road Phase II, and all of the bids came in higher than the budget amount, the city would need to change the budgeted amount, anyway. The public works director also noted that a 10% contingency is built into the scope. Major utilities projects are on tap for the city, too. This includes a $4 million allocated in the wastewater utilities fund for the Northside lift station and force main. The project calls for a master lift station in the vicinity of 23rd Street and Otis Allen Road, then installing a force main at Otis Allen, County Road 35A and State Road 54, into another lift station in that area. Poe explained the project not only meets septic-to-sewer initiatives but also helps to serve the rapid development on the north end of town. Other notable utilities projects include a pair of waterline extensions combining to total $3 million — and paid through loan by Florida’s State Revolving Fund (SRF). One aims to create a waterline loop from Copeland Drive to State Road 39 and Tucker Road ($2 million). The other calls for a waterline loop that includes Fort King Road from Simons Road to Phelps Road ($1 million). The city’s proposed budget also includes $1 million in Penny for Pasco dollars for sidewalk improvements throughout town — a big-picture initiative to make the city more walkable for residents and visitors. Poe put it like this:“I want to be able to create loops in our sidewalks and our trails, so as individuals want to go out and exercise, they have a loop and it’s not just an out and back, so we’re working on connectors, and also connecting our schools to our parks and our neighborhoods, so we’re hoping that $1 million will make a big dent in our needs for sidewalks.” Meanwhile, another $1 million-plus in Penny for Pasco funds also will go toward park improvements, the bulk set for renovations to Hercules Park.
TAX, from page 1A This higher rate of 7.497 mills would represent a 5% increase in ad valorem revenues compared to 7.14 mills, levying slightly more than $2.4 million. (The property tax on a home assessed at $95,000 at 7.497 mills would be $729, instead of $678 at 7.14 mills.) During the preceding workshop, needs identified included about 15 new full-time positions to resolve staffing needs across several city departments, a need to adopt a competitive pay scale and the need to address wage compression for existing employees. Nathe noted that workshop discussion involved a lot of talk “about a lot of wants and a lot of extra dollar signs.” Commissioner Scott Black backed Nathe’s concerns, expressing the need to give the city some “wiggle room” to help accommodate staffing needs and wage increases. Black moved to amend the original motion to set the tentative millage rate at 7.497. But Black’s motion failed, on a 2-3 vote, with Shive, Woodard and Mayor Camille Hernandez dissenting. After that, Nathe suggested setting the tentative millage rate at 7.3185 mills, but that failed to find support from his colleagues.
“We’ve been talking about Hercules Park, and the enhancements we want to make there,” Poe said,“so we feel that we can put $1 million towards that. We don’t believe that will complete the entire project, but that will get us going in the right direction and be able to do a large portion of that.” While smaller in nature, Gateway and Jennifer Lane roadway projects also would be notable — as they represent the last dirt roads in city limits, Poe noted. Those projects — funded through transportation impact fees — are estimated at $350,000 and $120,000, respectively.
PERSONNEL MATTERS
The city manager also addressed various personnel matters during the budget discussion portion of the meeting. The proposed budget calls for several additional positions, including a human resources specialist, senior maintenance mechanic, equipment operator, police officers, water distribution officer, wastewater maintenance/inventory technician and senior utility billing service representative. The need for additional police officers — and how many to hire — yielded debate among the council. Poe relayed that Zephyrhills Police Chief Derek Brewer has requested hiring six more officers, to accommodate the city’s rapid residential growth. That would meet the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) recommended standards of 2.4 full-time sworn officers per thousand residents, Poe explained. However, the city manager himself told council he’d prefer hiring just two officers for this upcoming fiscal year, with a plan to bring on additional officers in coming years. Hiring two more officers this fiscal year would roughly give the city 2.1 full-time sworn officers per thousand residents, he said. The starting salary for a full-time sworn officer is $44,500 plus benefits — bringing a total cost to the city at about $70,000 per officer, per year, Poe noted. Brewer did not speak at the meeting. Councilman Charles Proctor, however, was vocal about considering the police chief’s request, or at least meeting somewhere in the middle. “Personally, with the growth, I would like to see more (officers),” Proctor said. “I mean, I’d like to try to get closer to the number that (Brewer’s) requesting. I know six is probably undoable, but if we could do four, I mean, with the growth, I am concerned that we’re going to need more. “I would definitely like to see more than two (officers), but I know sometimes we can only do so much.” Also on the personnel front, Poe said the budget encompasses a 3% pay increase for all employees — a total impact of $194,618 spread across the general fund, CRA fund, utility fund, airport fund and sanitation fund. Another subject at hand is ensuring the city is in line with the minimum wage increasing to $15 per hour in September 2026.Anticipated savings from the merger of the city’s fire department with Pasco County may help methodically offset salary increases each year, Poe noted. Elsewhere, the city manager mentioned several possible add-ons that are not yet included in the draft budget: • $2 million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to purchase and install permanent generators for the city’s utilities department • $100,000 to transform an inline hockey rink at Krusen Field into a short-sided turf soccer field • $65,000 for place branding the city for marketing purposes These items will likely be considered at another meeting or budget workshop. Meanwhile, Poe said he wants to schedule one-on-one meetings with each council member to gather additional input on budgetary needs and issues.
So, board members voted on the original motion to set the tentative millage rate at 7.14 mills, passing it on a 4-1 vote, with Nathe voting no. Hernandez pointed out that the city has some “creative funding mechanisms” it can use to resolve some staffing and salary issues. “There are some things that we’ve had in the past that people said we couldn’t do it, and we did it,” she said. Some of these funding options will likely be addressed in more detail at forthcoming budget workshops, she said. “I know there’s lots of things that need to be done,” Hernandez said,“so I certainly look forward to the next workshop with some numbers and things that we can continue to have some productive conversation, as we continue to move forward.” Shive likewise is confident with the city’s budget situation. He suggested the municipality is “in a better position than we have in the past,” thanks to a slew of new residential developments (and thousands of new homes) coming on board over the next handful of years. “I think we’re going to be fine,” he said. Black cautioned that items discussed during the budget workshop may not be feasible, if the city is not willing to generate the revenue that’s needed.
SCHOOLS, from page 1A “We know that is probably one of the more problematic issues, the more challenging issues, pressing issues — as you see COVID numbers dramatically increasing,” Browning said. The superintendent noted that the COVID situation is at “about the same place as we were in December, which is frightening, if you will, particularly as we approach the start of a school year.” That being said, Browning added: “The quarantine rules will remain the same.The quarantining rules are not made by this superintendent, this board or the superintendent’s staff. The quarantining rules are set by the state.They’re the health experts.” Browning said until he's directed by the Florida Department of Health in Tallahassee, the quarantining rules will remain the same. “All symptomatic cases will be sent home for 10 days. If you’re not vaccinated and you have come in contact with a positive case and the health department has made the determination that you’ll quarantine, then you’ll quarantine. “If you are vaccinated and come in contact with a positive case and you are asymptomatic — not showing any signs — then you can remain in school, either as a student or as a teacher. “We take the direction from the state department of health. They’re the ones who set these rules. We do not set these rules,” Browning said. The superintendent also told board members that a Florida Department of Health grant will provide funding for the school district to hire, on a contract basis, licensed practical nurses and registered nurses, to perform contact tracing. The district will have little to no involvement in that effort, he said. “I want to make sure that our school nurses are in fact back in schools, doing their jobs, as school nurses — providing health services to our kids,” Browning said. Browning also told board members that he and his staff had spent considerable time going over the COVID protocols for the coming year, in terms of athletics, fine arts, social distancing, cleaning protocols and so on. When the district was gearing up for a new school year, Browning said,“I did not think we would have the positivity rate that we have today, two weeks ago, but we do.” Board members told Browning that parents and staff must be kept informed. School board member Colleen Beaudoin said she thinks the health department should be taking the lead in providing infor-
Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning said the debate is over, regarding making masks mandatory in Pasco County Schools and offices. Masks will be optionFILE al.
mation about how quarantines will be handled. “I feel like we’re being put in a position of having to be a spokesman for the health department. Really, that’s not our job,” Beaudoin said. School board member Alison Crumbley said,“I think it’s important that we get the picture to the parents as soon as possible about what the quarantine is going to look like for their kids.” “Parents want to know how kids will be able to continue with their education, if they’re quarantined,” she said. School board member Megan Harding wants the district to do what it can, to keep healthy kids in school. “I’m worried about their academic success and their mental health,” Harding said. Harding added:“I’m getting a lot of questions from teachers now, that if they have to quarantine, what that is going to look like for their classrooms. Teachers are worried that if they’re forced to quarantine that it will take away from their sick time. She asked if the district is making provisions for that. Kevin Shibley, assistant superintendent for administration, said discussions must be held with the union before any specific actions can be taken. Harding said she’s also receiving inquiries about how the district will handle sports, the arts and other activities. Browning said the district will be sending out procedures to schools soon, outlining how it will address various COVID issues. Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd put it like this: “The procedures you’re going to see are going to be considerably looser, as opposed to tighter than they were last year. “So, as it relates to use of facilities, athletics, various events, they’re going to be looser. “It’s only looking back, we’ll know if that’s a mistake. But going forward, we’re going to loosen up a little bit, so folks can attend ball games and dances, and things like that,” he said.
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11A
Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
National champion returns home to teach aspiring players By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
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ere weeks ago, Land O’ Lakes native Shannon Saile was busy celebrating an NCAA Division I national championship — as one of the top pitchers on the University of Oklahoma women’s softball team. Her decorated softball career now has quite literally come full circle. The 23-year-old returned to her tight-knit central Pasco County hometown, again setting foot on the same park ballfields that forged a pathway for myriad athletic accomplish- Shannon Saile, left, a national champion softball pitcher for the Oklahoma Sooners, explains the fundamentals of ments. Her goal is to organize a se- the fast pitch to 11-year-old Laila McClelland, of Odessa. ries of fastpitch softball clinics to train the next generation of youth standouts. The upstart Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic was held July 25 at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, home to Land O’ Lakes Little League. About 30 girls — ages 8 to 15 — took part on a steamy Sunday, eager to take in guidance from Saile and other well-known pitching instructors and volunteers. Saile hopes to host similar clinics across the country — the next likely somewhere in Oklahoma — all in the name of growing the game that’s afforded her success and opportunity. “It’s something I’m passionate about,” Saile told The Laker/Lutz News. Naturally, it only made sense for Saile to Local resident Shayna Rentfro lines up a piclaunch her softball instruction venture back ture of her daughter, Jayda Lisant, 8, through where it all began — a ballfield in Land O’ the fence, during the recent Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic at the Land O' Lakes Lakes. “I just thought it was like really impor- Recreation Complex on Collier Parkway. tant to me to start it in Land O’ Lakes, because that’s where I grew up,” she said of days, spent in travel ball and Land O’ Lakes her softball clinic venture.“I really want to Little League practices and games. She put it like this:“Remembering where grow it across the country, and always come I started…it just wants me to remind the back to Land O’ Lakes.” With Saile’s tutelage, young campers kids of,‘You start small and you work your sharpened their fastballs and secondary of- way up; it doesn’t happen overnight,’ and it’s ferings like changeups, through arm path just a humbling experience of remembering mechanics and leg drive techniques, as well where I was and now where I am. It just means a lot to me to bleed that into these as various speed, agility and balance drills. “I just hope that I can teach them the girls, that have the same dreams I did.” Saile, meanwhile, continues to have vivid foundation of pitching, because it’s much more important than just getting out there memories of guiding the Sooners to a naand throwing pitches,” Saile explained.“The tional crown earlier this summer and a drills are super important, because they showy 56-4 record. After navigating the Big 12 softball chamhelp me grow my strength and my confipionship, NCAA regional and super dence in my pitches.” Besides newfound softball skills, campers regional, Oklahoma defeated James also had an opportunity to get signed auto- Madison, Georgia, UCLA and Florida State at graphs and take pictures with Saile, who’s the 2021 Women’s College World Series at become a household name in the sports Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City. world. She was invited to ESPN’s 2021 ESPY “It kind of feels like it was yesterday still,” Awards for being part of one of the best mo- Saile said of the historic collegiate camments from the year in sports. The annual paign.“I just continuously live that moment sports awards event was televised last in my head of just that feeling of, ‘All the month on ABC. hard work has finally paid off.’ Like, all of the Saile is arguably one of the most accom- hard work when you’re a kid, on the Little plished — if not most accomplished — League field, and then now, in the biggest fastpitch softball players to ever come out stage, it feels like,‘Wow, everything I worked of Land O’ Lakes High School and the for has finally paid off,’ and not a lot of peogreater Tampa Bay area. ple get to experience that, and I’m so As a Gator, she amassed 517 strikeouts grateful that I was able to.” and a career 1.76 ERA in four varsity seasons from 2013 to 2016, also compiling a ALL ARMS ON DECK combined 41 wins, 31 complete games, 11 A slew of Saile’s former teammates, shutouts and five no-hitters. coaches and acquaintances pitched in to The advancement to the college ranks help the youth softball clinic run smoothly. likewise went swimmingly for the 5-foot-7 This included fellow former Land O’ right-hander. Lakes High pitching standout Callie Turner, Saile began her Division I softball career who launched her college career at at Florida International University, finding University of Tennessee, but has since transimmediate success with a pair of sub 2 ERA ferred to the University of Arkansas, another seasons in the circle. prominent Division I SEC (Southeastern Saile then transferred to blue-chip Conference) program. Oklahoma following her sophomore season. Turner and Saile crossed paths in high Oklahoma is a perennial powerhouse school, when Saile was a senior and Turner that’s won five national softball titles since a freshman. 2000 —including the 2021 Women’s Turner has plenty of name recognition in College World Series over Florida State her own right — a former top-ranked prep University in June — under longtime head softball recruit, state champion and particicoach Patty Gasso. pant on USA Softball’s Junior Women’s The local athlete enjoyed similar statisti- National Training Team. cal feats in the iconic cream-and-crimson The 5-foot-10 left-hander expressed enSooners uniform. thusiasm about sharing her softball As a redshirt senior this past season, Saile knowledge and wisdom with budding posted an impressive 1.70 ERA and 1.06 campers. WHIP while being second on the team in “When I was a kid, I didn’t have a lot of wins (17), innings pitched (100.1), complete opportunities to do stuff like this,” Turner games (six), and strikeouts (132). said,“(so) I think it’s really fun, and, I mean, Upon returning to the area recreation it’s nice to think that they look up to us, so complex, Saile acknowledged “flashbacks” just being able to give back to the commuof the many years, and countless hours and nity that we grew up in, is great.”
FRED BELLET
With her eyes on the 'strike zone,’ 15-year-old Daijah Madry, of Tampa, prepares to pitch during the Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic at the Land O' Lakes Recreation Complex on Collier Parkway. Saile worked with the intermediates and advanced pitchers on developing their form and delivering a fast pitch over home plate.
Twelve-year old Paige Smith, of Land O' Lakes, gets a hit in the batting cage, an extra feature at the pitching clinic. She and her 14-year-old sister, Lilly, picked up some pointers at the clinic.
Another notable softball figure serving up lessons — former University of Minnesota pitching standout Amber Fiser, now a softball graduate assistant at the University of Missouri. Fiser plays alongside Saile for Team Florida in the Professional Fastpitch Softball league. They also coached together in the Florida Gulf Coast League Pro Series, a summer collegiate softball league in the Sarasota area. Land O’ Lakes High assistant softball coach Pascal Guarracino, another camp volunteer, took a beating while catching behind home plate. Still, he was more than willing to don the mask and heavy glove to help current and former students. The coach came away amazed by how Saile and Turner have transformed into topflight Division I athletes, and their willingness to help the next wave of local softball youth. “They really are about community, they’re about family, and it was really important for (them) to come back and do it here,” Guarracino said. “You know, we still see them as young high school girls, as little kids, but the knowledge of the sport and the progress we’ve seen (from them) in the last four years, we learn more from them than we could learn in a (coach’s clinic) classroom.” Turner’s father, Dave, chipped in, too. An area softball coach himself, he emphasized the need for programs to develop more willing, confident pitchers throughout the sport. A lot of kids are afraid to pitch, he said. “It’s a lot of pressure. I mean, you’re out there in the circle by yourself,” he explained. In addition to fastpitch drills, hitting in-
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August 4, 2021
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struction was happening in batting cages next to the ballfield. That was led by Charles Aliano, a baseball lifer who now works as a scout supervisor for the Cincinnati Reds. His daughter, Addy, is a standout outfielder at Academy at the Lakes. Aliano was quick to heap praise on Saile, Turner, Fiser and others for coordinating the daylong softball clinic. He said,“It’s an amazing experience for all these girls to have those girls” working with them. He added: “It’s special, and I think everybody should embrace it.”
LESSONS LEARNED
The next wave of local talent could include Land O’ Lakes High rising sophomore Avaree Hudson and incoming freshman Sammy Magee. Both assisted during the clinic’s morning intermediate session, then worked on honing their own softball craft in the afternoon advanced session. They expressed gratitude for having the trio of Saile, Turner and Fiser available to help them and the younger players to develop their skills. They acknowledged admiring the Division I players’ talent and respective softball feats. “I think it’s a really great opportunity because all of them are taking the time to teach everyone, and all these girls are going to be girls playing in high schools around us,” said Hudson. “They’re just taking time out of their day to teach (the campers) new things, like changeups, that they don’t know, and I think that’s really great and really special,” she said. Added Magee,“I think it’s cool that the older girls get to come here and help with younger kids, because it all starts with the youth and learning things and getting them to look up to them, it’s like a big thing for them.” The prep underclassman likewise left with some beneficial softball tidbits of their own, too, from the experienced college trio. “The way they word things is so helpful to like,‘Learning how to get into your legs and really drive,’ and get stronger as a pitcher, mentally and physically,” said Magee, who recently moved with her family to Land O’ Lakes from Pennsylvania, in search of facing greater softball competition and exposure.
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Seeking to use historic buildings to generate a buzz Zephyrhills leaders hope that creative proposals come in to repurpose The Captain Jeffries House and The Carriage House, with the goal of increasing foot traffic in downtown. By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
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wo historic buildings in the heart of the city could become a catalyst for attracting new life into downtown Zephyrhills. City officials are seeking proposals from potential tenants for The Captain Jeffries House and The Carriage House — structures which have undergone relatively recent makeovers. FRED BELLET “The city seeks an overall adaptive reuse The Carriage House, right, is next to The Jeffries House. Both structures have undergone renovations and are ready for tenants. of these historic buildings for the economic benefit of the area,” according to the city’s Request for Proposal (RFP). In choosing the tenant, the city will consider the proposal’s “ability to provide an attraction or anchor” in downtown that will entice both residents and visitors alike, the RFP adds. The document provides insight into the city’s vision for the potential of these historic buildings. “The city believes that retail, restaurant operations are appropriate, and a feasible business opportunity, since the structures are located in the downtown Zephyrhills shopping district, which includes City Hall, the City Library, along with multiple retail shops and a microbrewery,” the RFP notes. A city news release observes: Local business owner Chemeka Chambers, of Zephyrhills, checked out The Jeffries “Both buildings are a short walk to House during the open house. The local landmark has been revitalized, and the city the popular Zephyrhills Brewing is looking for a new tenant. The city is seeking a tenant for the Carriage House on Company, Your Turn Board Game Ninth Street, too. Cafe and Gentlemen’s Quarters Barber Shop.” To encourage the redevelopment, the Fifth Ave., is named after the city’s founder, windows and folding garage city may offer incentives such as zero lease Captain H.B. Jeffries, who established doors. payment for a period of time and assistance Zephyrhills as a retirement area for old The building has a onewith remodel costs to business owners who Union soldiers. bedroom apartment, with a also invest in the property and will drive The 2,365-square-foot structure, built in kitchen and bathroom on foot traffic to downtown, the city news re- 1912, was added to the U.S. National the second floor, which has lease says. Register of Historic Places on Nov. 29, 1995. its own entrance. Community Redevelopment Agency In addition to the interior space, it has a New plumbing, electrical Director Gail Hamilton provides some back- 600-square-foot wraparound porch. It has and HVAC work was comground in the release. original hardwood floors, windows, light fix- pleted in the structure Linda Kerns, president of Main Street Zephyrhills, sits in the renovated lobby of the Jeffries House, at 38537 Fifth Ave., “The downtown district has been evolv- tures, a fireplace and stained glass windows. during 2020. ing over the past few years into an area that Work completed in 2016 included The city’s RFP offers during the building’s recent open house. The City of draws our community members, and even plumbing, electrical and heating, ventilation guidance to those seeking Zephyrhills is seeking proposals from potential tenants of people who don’t live in Zephyrhills, to it,” and air-conditioning (HVAC). to lease these unique the Jeffries House and the adjacent Carriage House, at 5232 Ninth St. The idea is to use the historic buildings to help genHamilton says, in the release.“It’s got a very Some maintenance issues remain, which spaces. “Main Street” vibe, with the brick sidewalks, will be addressed by the city, in partnership “The city will evaluate erate foot traffic in downtown Zephyrhills. music throughout, string lights, and busi- with the new tenant. The idea is to avoid proposals that offer further nesses that people enjoy frequenting.We are having to redo that work. rehabilitation or reuse of the buildings in a the document says. looking for businesses that will continue to The Carriage House at 5323 Ninth St., new way that attracts people to downtown The deadline for proposals is 11 a.m., on add to the walkability and excitement of was built in 1940. It is a two-story structure Zephyrhills. Aug. 16. our downtown.” of 1,320 square feet, including a balcony on An evaluation team will rank the propos“Innovative leasing proposals are welThe Captain Jeffries House, at 38537 the second floor. It has restored original comed. als.The final selection will be determined by “Proposals should be persuasive as to the Zephyrhills City Council, expected their feasibility and should reflect a realistic around mid-September. understanding of the building and its value,” Lease dates could begin as early as Oct. 1.
Local designer Allen Cooke, of Zephyrhills, who also works at Song Printing in Zephyrhills, checks out the view from a second floor window of The Carriage House. He and printer Sue Prenderville, of Wesley Chapel, toured the renovated building.
IT DOESN’T MAAT ATTER
Pedro Cruz, of Zephyrhills, was among those checking out The Jeffries House and The Carriage House, during a recent July 22 open house at the two historic buildings. Cruz’s son, Bengue, was in front of the historic structure serving up hot dogs. Left, Rob LaMacchia waits for his order and one for Jeremy Nansteel, both of Zephyrhills.
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how you get it, wh here you re ead it, or wh ho you read d it with.
JUST ENJO OY ITT!
LOCAL WILDLIFE SPONSOR:
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Noel is very special Noel has been with her owner since he was 5 years old. She seems like a grumpy cat a lot, but really is very sweet. Noel loves to be scratched under her chin and petted. She is afraid of strangers at first, but if you give her some time, she will come up to you and rub her head against your leg. She helps Christian Morales and his brother, of Wesley Chapel, by ‘acting’ in their movies.
POISED AND STATELY
This red-shouldered hawk stopped by for a visit in Roy and Becky Adams’ yard in Lutz.
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.
PET PAWS HARVEST SEASON
SHARE YOUR PET NEWS
The recreational harvest of greater amberjack and gray triggerfish reopened in Gulf state and federal waters on Aug. 1. Greater amberjack is scheduled to remain open through Oct. 31 and gray triggerfish is scheduled to remain open through Dec. 31, both in Gulf state and federal waters. An early quota closure is possible for either species. You must sign up as a State Reef Fish Angler (annual renewal is required), if fishing from a private recreational vehicle for amberjack or triggerfish anywhere in Florida state or federal waters. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/SRFS. Sign up at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.
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, but we consider each item we receive. 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.
COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE
Looking out for elders and their four-legged friends
Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s offices raised $6,000 to benefit the CARES (Community Aging & Retirement Services) Pet Project, which was created to help feed and support the animals that so often are the only companion older members of the community may have. Fasano, far left, presents the donation to Jemith Rosa, CARES president and CEO, and members of Rosa’s staff and board. Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano also was in attendance (far right in mask). For information about the Pet Project, contact Rosa at 727-863-6868, or visit CARESFl.org.
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Bear is a gentle giant Bear weighs in at just under 75 pounds. He loves to sit next to his human and lean into them, giving little kisses at times. He thinks he's a lap dog! Bear sits on command and walks beautifully on a leash. He has lived with a small dog and seems friendly with other large dogs. This 8-year-old is heartworm positive, and Animal Services staff can discuss treatment options with you. If you want a loyal, loving companion, make an appointment today to meet Bear.
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An Age-Qualified Comm munity 4604 L Lake k C Crystall B Boulev l vard d Zephyrhills, FL 33541 1
If you would like to adopt Bear or Manny, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813-929-1212. 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.
ACROSS 1. Ponds 6. “Unbelievable” musicians 9. Invests in little enterprises 13. Longtime Utah Jazz coach 14. Small sailboat 15. “Luther” actor 16. Round Dutch cheese 17. Detects underwater objects 18. Harsh, grating noise 19. Steward 21. Fencing sword 22. Painful places on the body 23. “Sleepless in Seattle” actress Ryan 24. Sodium 25. Engineering degree (abbr.) 28. Small lump 29. African antelope 31. Electronic point of sale 33. Carefully chooses 36. Ringworm 38. Unrefined 39. Drenches 41. Type of pants 44. Son of Noah 45. Spiritual being 46. Upton Sinclair novel 48. Journalist Tarbell 49. Atomic #21 (abbr.) 51. Born of 52. Rich tapestry 54. S. China seaport 56. Being without clothes 60. Surrounded by 61. Remains 62. Away from wind 63. Dried-up 64. One who can see the future 65. A very large body of water 66. Digs up earth 67. Type of screen 68. Old Norse poet
SEE SOLUTIONS, PAGE 11B
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE DOWN 1. Millisecond 2. Spanish city 3. Sudden, very loud sound 4. Type of chair 5. Tin 6. Sea eagles 7. Broad volcanic crater 8. Some animals have it 9. Ottoman palaces 10. Divulge a secret 11. “A Doll’s House” playwright 12. “It’s a Wonderful Life” director 14. Poisonous perennial 17. Gulf in the Aegean 20. Clothes 21. Chairs 23. Family of regulator genes 25. NY ballplayer 26. Impressive in size or scope 27. Jacques __, Fr. biologist 29. Manhattanite 30. Genus of lemurs 32. Sings to 34. River in southern Italy 35. Supplemented with difficulty 37. Farewell 40. Senior officer 42. Utah resident 43. Begets 47. Boy 49. Violently break 50. Brief appearance 52. Expressed pleasure 53. A light informal meal 55. Fabric with smooth finish 56. One billionth of a second (abbr.) 57. Ancient Greek City 58. Close tightly 59. Commit 61. A way to communicate (abbr.) 65. Heavy metal
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August 4, 2021
3B
Health
• Aug. 11:“Safe Sleep,” by Sarah Forestal, Florida Department of Health • Aug. 18:“Breastfeeding,” by Sarah Forestal • Aug. 25:“Mom Self Care,” by Terri Thompson, Florida Department of Health After each presentation, there will be a Q&A session. To register, please visit EmpoweredCommunities.org/event/.
&
Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com
RECOVERY WALK
The ASAP (Alliance for Substance Addiction Prevention) Recovery Committee will host a Stronger Together Recovery Walk on Aug. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon, at Sims Park in New Port Richey. There will be T-shirts, vendors, speakers and prizes.Admission is free. Applications for vendor tables are now available. For general information, email asap@empoweredcommunities.org. For vendor information, email missy.coyle@baycare.org.
ALZHEIMER’S SEMINAR
The Alzheimer’s Association will host “In Good Company: Alzheimer’s in the Workplace” on Aug. 5 at 8:15 a.m., via Zoom. Participants can join community leaders to learn more about the impact of Alzheimer’s in the workplace and how an organization can make a difference in the community. RSVP online at tinyurl.com/ENDALZflgc.
WELLNESS LECTURE
WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center will present “Reawakening the Child in You” on Aug. 5 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the AuratoriOM, 4242 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill. Dr. Maria Scunziano-Singh will discuss how to reawaken your inner child, painlessly and happily. For information and to register, visit WellComeOMCenter.com, or call 352-6004242.
CONVERSE WITH A NURSE
The Alliance for Healthy Communities will host a virtual “Converse with a Nurse” series, for moms and moms-to-be. These upcoming events will take place from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.:
EYESIGHT PROGRAM
The Zephyrhills Lions Club, 5827 Dean Dairy Road, hosts its monthly Eyesight Program on the first Thursday of every month from 9 a.m. to noon, for any age.The next program is scheduled for Aug. 5. Participants should bring a government ID, social security card, bills, proof of income, proof of government assistance and insurance information. For details, call 813-395-5996.
DONATIONS NEEDED
The Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger is seeking donations and local volunteers for its Meals on Wheels for Kids program. The program’s mission is to provide nu-
COURTESY OF ANDY TAYLOR/PASCO COUNTY
‘Topping off’ a new build Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore signs a beam that was later raised and placed in the new BayCare Wesley Chapel hospital. Also signing is Keri Eisenbeis, vice president of Government Affairs and Community Relations for BayCare. The beam-signing was part of a traditional topping off ceremony on July 16. The new hospital, being built off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, is expected to open in 2023.
tritious home-delivered, shelf-stable meal ingredients, produce and prepared meals to transportation-disadvantaged and/or homebound children and their families who lack adequate access to food distribution locations throughout the community. Meals on Wheels for Kids provides a weekly delivery of meals and shelf-stable
groceries, as resources allow. All donations go to providing these deliveries to children enrolled in the program. Donations will be accepted via the program’s website, NetworkToEndHunger.org/mow4k/, or by See HEALTH, page 5B
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August 4, 2021
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HEALTH, from page 4B calling 813-344-5837. If no one answers, please leave a message and someone will return your call within 24 hours.
HOMEBOUND VACCINES
The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) has launched “We Will Meet You at Home,” to ensure that every older adult who wants a vaccine will receive one, according to a news release. The initiative builds upon other programs throughout the state to provide homebound seniors access to COVID-19 vaccinations. While many of Florida’s older residents have received a COVID-19 vaccination, not every senior is able to leave their home. In these cases, the Florida DOEA and the state’s 11 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) are offering seniors access to transportation to go and receive a vaccine. Elders also have the option of having a health care worker bring the vaccine to their front door. DOEA’s statewide initiative is distributing over 175,000 informational flyers to older homebound adults requesting more information about vaccines or vaccine access. The AAAs made tens of thousands of outbound wellness calls over a two-month
When the inevitable is near... ...we are here in your time of need.
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.
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period to identify people requesting more resources. The DOEA’s Area Agencies on Aging connect seniors with community providers to get a ride to a doctor’s office, a pharmacy, a grocery store, or another vaccination site. The local AAAs also may assist in arranging a health care professional to come to the individual’s house to receive a vaccination. If you or someone you know would like assistance with transportation in getting to a COVID-19 vaccination appointment or would like a health provider to bring a shot to your front door, call 800-963-5337.
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NOISE N OISE alk on stage, and d tell 150,000 local peoplle about your business, would you? Weell, when you advertiise with The Laker/Lutzz News, th t’s exactly that that’ tly what h t you ou’’re doing! d i ! e tell your story through our print, digital and so ocial media. e have many affordab o le marketing programs, and our ta alented sales team will help h you pick the best on ne fo or you. So w
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5B
To learn about how your business can get involved with the Human Trafficking Foundation, email Alan Wilkett at info@htfoundation.us.
HIRING EVENT
Send business news to news@lakerlutznews.com
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SUPERVISOR OF ELECTIONS TO BE GUEST SPEAKER
Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley is scheduled to speak at the East Pasco Networking Group’s Brian Corley breakfast meeting on Aug. 10.The group meets at 7:30 a.m., at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center, 6585 Simons Road, in Zephyrhills, in the Ron Oakley Room. For more information, call Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or Vicky Jones at 813-4311149.
DADE CITY CHAMBER RESUMES INDOOR MASKS
The rising rate of COVID-19 transmissions has prompted the Greater Dade City of Commerce, 14112 Eighth St., in Dade City, to return to a “mask required for entry” policy.The change took effect on Aug. 2, according to an email sent out by the chamber.
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Social media can be overwhelming for business owners. Which platforms? How often to post? What is "love”? Why Facebook Groups are important.This webinar provides the basics business owns should know, along with the latest trends to help you expand your business. The Zoom webinar will be presented by Patty Ross, of Golden State Marketing, on Aug. 10 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.. The workshop is being presented through SCORE Pasco-Hernando. Please join the Zoom session 5 minutes early, at score.zoom.us/s/94396726338.
MOFFITT BECOMING MORE INVOLVED AT PASCO EDC
The Pasco Economic Development Council has announced that Merritt Martin, chief of staff to the CEO, external relations for Moffitt, has joined the Pasco EDC’s policy council.That council provides strategic guidance to the nonprofit economic development organization. In other news, David de la Parte, executive vice president and in-house general counsel for Moffitt has joined the Pasco EDC board. Moffitt has announced its plans to open a 775-acre campus in Pasco that will highlight research, lifestyle and treatment, and is projected to create 14,500 jobs in Pasco, according to a Pasco EDC news release.
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August 4, 2021
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Krav Maga Martial Arts has raised $5,000 to support the effort to end human trafficking, according to information provided by Bill Cronin, a founding board member of the Human Trafficking Foundation. The martial arts school, in Land O’ Lakes, hosted an event on June 27 that served as both a fundraising event for the Human Trafficking Foundation and a celebration for students at Krav Maga Martial Arts.
Allied Universal, a Santa Ana, Californiabased security and facility services company, is seeking to hire 300-plus security professionals, in Tampa. A hiring event is scheduled for Aug. 10, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the company’s branch office, 4200 W. Cypress St., Suite No. 550, in Tampa.A virtual interview process also is available. Job listings are available at Jobs.aus.com/.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENTREPRENEURS
Information about these programs was provided by The North Tampa Bay Chamber: • BACKING THE BAY FROM THE VINIK SPORTS GROUP Backing the Bay, a marketing grant program designed to help small businesses in the Tampa Bay community that have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.VSG is offering up to a total of $500,000 in media assets in 2021, to help amplify small businesses across various Vinik Sports Group brand platforms, including the Tampa Bay Lightning, AMALIE Arena and The Identity Tampa Bay. At least half of the businesses will be: Minority-Owned, Woman-Owned, Veteran-Owned, or LGBT-Owned.The program's full outline and application is online at tinyurl.com/zk4s9fdr. • SMALL BUSINESS CONSULTING WITH SBDC The Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County provides no cost Small Business Consulting to help clients start and grow their business. Clients receive assistance with developing their business idea, business plan, marketing plan; answer questions about business structure, zoning, permitting, taxes, insurance, bonding and registering your business. Florida SBDC at Hillsborough County offers complimentary onsite counseling at the South Tampa Chamber office every Wednesday, beginning in August, by appointment. https://www.southtampachamber.org/events/details/small-busines s-consulting-with-sbdc-37520 • HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET YOUNG ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAM The Junior League of Tampa Young Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) is open to women from ages to 40 who are majority owners of their business. The winner receives a spotlight booth at the in-person Holiday Gift Market in November and the winner also receives a $3,000 grant for her business. Applications are being accept through Aug. 13. This program began in 2014 and has been used by previous winners as a stepping stone. More information and the application is available online at tinyurl.com/yddcr8wp.
SCORE OFFERS BUSINESS HELP
If you have a business problem you’re trying to solve, there’s a good chance that Pasco-Hernando SCORE can help you explore solutions. The program offers free individual, confidential small business mentoring. To find out more, please visit PascoHernando.score.org.
BROWN BAG LUNCH & LEARN
The Pasco EDC Brown Bag Lunch & Learn is an open invitation to anyone interested in hearing more about the Pasco EDC, and the programs and services it offers. Bring a lunch, and learn the various ways that Pasco EDC is involved in the promotion and development of economic activity in Pasco County. To find out more, go to PascoEDC.com.
Library branch to reduce hours, then close for remodeling The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report The Land O’ Lakes Branch Library will be operating on reduced hours through Aug. 13, then will close on Aug. 14 for renovations, according to a Pasco County news release. The library’s hours through Aug. 13 will be: • Mondays and Tuesdays: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. • Wednesdays and Thursdays: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. • Fridays and Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During its renovation, the library will undergo a complete, floor-to-ceiling upgrade. The work is being paid for through a General Obligation Bond (GO Bond) Referendum, which Pasco County voters passed in November 2018. Each library in the county’s system is being remodeled to provide a better user experience. When the renovations are completed, li-
braries throughout the system will have updated technology, new furnishings, high efficiency air-conditioning and a faster internet. Materials on hold can be picked up at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, next to the library, on select days. Answers to frequently asked questions about the remodeling can be found at PascoLibraries.org/lol-remodel/. For additional information, in general, visit PascoLibraries.org.
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Front living room, 4- slides, residential fridgee, king bed, auto-leveling. LOADED!! Was $79,9995
Rear den model, 4- slides,, auto leveling, residential fridge, fi replace, electric awning, loaded!!! Was $59,995
Now $37,212
2021 38fft
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2021 30ft
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3- slides, fi replace, residential r fridge, TVs, auto leveling, leather furniture, whisper quiet ACs. Was $59,995
1- slide, sleeps-10, AM/FM Bluetooth, electric e awning and jacks,fi replace. MSRP $299,995
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Now w $49,421
Now $21,941
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SALES • SERVICE • PARTS www.LakerLutzNews.com
August 4, 2021
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Renovations will limit tax collector operations The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Renovations at the Dade City Tax Collector’s Office at the East Pasco Government Center in Dade City will temporarily affect the office’s operations, according to a news release from Fasano’s office. The office will be offering limited services from Aug. 4 through Sept. 30, according to the release. The renovations are being made to improve customer services. During the work, the office will continue to provide automobile/ boat registrations and renewals, all title work (Florida title and out-
of-state titles transferring to Florida), hunting and fishing licenses, property tax, business tax, and dealer drop-off and pick-up work. The office will not be handling concealed weapons permit applications or driver license services, including road testing.Those services will be provided at the office located at 4610 Pet Lane in Lutz (referred to by the tax collector’s office as its Wesley Chapel location). To find out more about services available at the Pasco Tax Collector’s Office, locations, hours of operation and other information, visit PascoTaxes.com, or contact the centralized call center at 727-847-8032, 813-235-6076 or 352-521-4338.
Pasco County offers help to Olympus pool customers
Jeremy Branham • Shop Forman • 17 years working for Jarrett Ford • Born and raised in Dade City / Zephyrhills, Florida • Hobbies/Interests: Enjoys spending time with family camping and going to amusement parks
The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
“I came to work for Jarrett Ford because I alwayys wanted to work on Ford vehicles and it offered a close commute to my home. I continued to work at Jarrett Ford all these years because of the people I work with and the family atmosphere itt provides.” – Je eremy Branham
Here’s an opportunity to mak ke a great income y bonuses. with competitive pay and monthly
Pasco County is stepping up to help customers of Olympus Pools, according to a county news release. Olympus Pools has pulled hundreds of permits for pool projects in Pasco County during the past two years, and most remain unfinished, the release said. The pool company has ceased operations. Pasco County now is offering a new tool to help customers whose projects are in limbo, due to open permits, and the county also is waiving fees associated with Olympus Pools permits through Dec. 31, 2021.
We are family-owned and a family-first companyy,, which is why there are no late night hours and we are closed every Sunday. S Benefits include 401(K), health insurance, holidays, life inssurance, personal days and vacation.
The county has launched a dedicated webpage to help customers navigate the permitting process and to answer questions they may have. “We hope this action will help ease the financial burden on our customers who choose to seek other permitting options,” Assistant County Administrator Sally Sherman, said in the release. Olympus Pools customers have three options for open pool permits: • Oversee the project yourself • Hire a new, licensed pool contractor • Cancel your pool permit For more information on options, visit bit.ly/OlympusPermits.
Trying to Visit locate your favorite community www.LakerLutzNews.com for a list of newspaper?
38300 Dickk Jarrett Way Dade Cityy, FL 33525 866-9006-7651
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The Other V Va accine Y Yo ou Should T Ta alk to Y Yo our Doctor About
I
”
s probably too eaarly to say if the COVID-19 Pand demic will aff ffeect flu vac v cination rates this year. For the coming flu seasson, the CDC recommends o everyone older than six months m withoutt a conflicting health condition n should geet a flu vaccine to prot o ect them and the people around them and to help reduce the strain on heaalthcare systems responding to the Pandemic n .
The flu is going to
sneak in and spread more with all the loosened
”
restrictions.
-Dr. Nektarios Demetriou
Ther e e remains a good amount of vaccine hesitancy ssurrounding the flu vaccine, with only aabout half of adults getting it in an averrage year. Millennium Physician Group Family Medicine Physician Nektarioss Demetriou, D.O., says the recent liffttin ng of some COVID-19 restrictions could leead to an increase in flu cases, making g th he flu vaccine more important than eveer this year. “We’re seeing a group of vvaccinated people walking around maaskless and not taking as many precaution ns,” he warns. “ The flu is going to sneak in n and spread more with all the looseneed restrictions.”
In the U.S., flu season can begin as early as October and end as late as May. Dr. Demetriou recommends getting vaccinated at the end of September or beginninng of October. “If you do it too earlyy,, the vaccine may lose it’s durability by the end of flu season and you want it to last all the way through.” Dr. Demetriou also warns you can also get your flu vaccine too late. “It takes two weeks to take eff ffeect, so you don’t want to wait too late into the flu season and risk getting infected beffo ore you’re protected.” Loosening restrictions, increased socialization, and resumed travel and gatherings could create the perfect storm fo for a serious flu season. Lessons learned during the COVID-19 Pandemic should serve us all when it comes to the flu. “Continuing COVID-19 mitigation measures like mask wearing, hand washing, and social distancing could be our best method to prevent flu,” says Dr. Demetriou. “It really could save lives.”
Nektarios Demetriou, D.O. 26 649 Windguard Circle, Suite #101, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 (813) 72 23 -1303 | www.MillenniumPhysician.com 8B
August 4, 2021
www.LakerLutzNews.com
From left: 11-year-olds Brian Pugliese, Jace Aguiao and Matthew Broderick, all of Land O’ Lakes, sit on a tree branch at the grapple truck station.
COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY
Jason Farr, a heavy equipment operator for Pasco County public works, shows 12-year-old Marsello Cammarota, of Land O’Lakes, how to operate the vac truck.
Having fun and learning The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
Bryant Fretz, an equipment operator, and Tony Felice, a heavy equipment operator, showed the kids how the bucket truck works. The boom can stretch 65 feet into the air. Jason Farr, a heavy equipment operator, explained how the vac truck is used to clean out storm drains and remove water from sites.The kids had a chance to press buttons on the equipment to move the vacuum. Alan Jackson, an equipment operator, and Nino Rojero, a special equipment operator, showed the children the Gradall equipment, which is used to clean swales. “The vac truck was my favorite. It is an interesting machine,” said 11-year-old Chase Christmas, of San Antonio. “This has been fun.” Scott Denney, a labor supervisor said, “The kids have been awesome and have asked unique questions.They have all been attentive. It’s been a great group.”
Children had a chance to get an up-close look at big pieces of equipment — and to learn about them at the same time, during a Touch-A-Truck event, put on by Pasco County Public Works and Pasco Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources. The two county departments teamed up to give about 100 children a chance to see a grader, a grapple truck, a bucket truck, a vac truck and Gradall equipment, according to information provided by Ryan Hughes, of Pasco County’s media relations and communications team. Robert Dingman, a heavy equipment operator, explained how the grader equipment works, and Josh Timms and Joel Terkovich, also equipment operators demonstrated the grapple truck for the children. The kids cheered, as Terkovich picked up some branches.
Nob Nobody be ea a beats a soN soNNy’s d e deal!
Bryant Fretz, an equipment operator for Pasco County public works, demonstrates how the lights on the bucket truck work to twin 9-year-olds Kharington Mitchell, left, and Honor Mitchell, of Land O’Lakes.
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August 4, 2021
11B
AN EMERGENCY IS STILL AN EMERGENCY. EVEN DURING THIS EMERGENCY.
Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why in
all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org
HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS:
Bardmoor Emergency Center • Bartow Regional Medical Center • Mease Countryside Hospital • Mease Dunedin Hospital Morton Plant Hospital • Morton Plant North Bay Hospital • St. Anthony’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Hospital • St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital St. Joseph’s Hospital-North • St. Joseph’s Hospital-South • South Florida Baptist Hospital • Winter Haven Hospital BAYCARE.ORG 20-1197007-0820
12B
August 4, 2021
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