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More growth coming to East Pasco
By Kathy Steele Special to The Laker/Lutz News
Zephyrhills is hitting its stride as growth and development gain momentum along the traffic corridors of what is now Pasco County’s largest city. The signs of new growth are everywhere along Zephyrhills’ major corridors including U.S. 301/Gall Boulevard, and State Road 56.
Construction is changing the city’s landscape. New developments include The District at Abbott Square, a master-planned community behind the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center, and Abbott Park, a residential community off Dean Dairy Road. The Zephyrhills Municipal Airport is expanding and there’s new retail at Zephyr Commons shopping complex.
These signal the city’s increasing population. It grew from more than 13,000 residents in 2010 to more than 17,000 residents in 2020, according to data from the 2020 U.S. Census. In addition to Abbott Square and Abbott Park, Hidden River and the Links at Calusa Springs also are adding rooftops to See GROWTH, page 9A
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The guitar maker looks over the wood he will use to make a guitar in his workshop.
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B FAVORITE WILDLIFE PHOTOS FROM 2021 INSIDE, PAGE 2B
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Portion of Ridge Road now open Chamber executive shares lessons learned from COVID
The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
A portion of the Ridge Road extension has finally opened up — after some two decades in the making. This new 4.2-mile, uninterrupted section of roadway runs from Moon Lake to the Suncoast Parkway — offering an east-west thoroughfare in the county. Pasco County officials hosted a mediaonly availability and “drive the road” event on Dec. 22 in New Port Richey, for Phase One of the long-awaited roadway project. Two of the four lanes were expected to open in the days following the special media gathering. Various reporters and photographers had a chance to speak with county officials who’ve been instrumental in the road’s construction; news crews were escorted onto the roadway in county vehicles, as the location remains an active construction zone. Pasco County Commission Vice Chair Jack Mariano touted the road’s first phase, and eventual build out, in an interview with The Laker/Lutz News. “I am so delighted to see the Ridge Road See RIDGE ROAD, page 9A
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
FRED BELLET
Project manager Sam Beneck talked about the roadway and its importance. Eventually the road is planned to stretch as far as U.S. 301. But right now, Beneck hopes to finish the roadway as far as the Suncoast Parkway in the weeks ahead.
Headlines are being dominated by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, and scientists and health experts are working to understand its potential impacts, and how to prevent and treat it. But there already have been many lessons learned by Pasco County’s business community, in terms of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic — which began having widespread disruptions in March 2020, according to Hope Kennedy, president and CEO of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. Kennedy has a broad perspective on the issue because her chamber work involves large business operations, startup entrepreneurs, legislators, local organizations and business leaders. See COVID, page 9A
Pasco board wants true ‘mixed-use’ projects
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A request for a rezoning on North Dale Mabry Highway, near the Pasco County line, has prompted a debate by the Pasco County Commission over what is meant by the phrase “mixed-use,” as it pertains to development. The proposed rezoning would allow 238 multi-family units to replace commercial entitlements that remain on the books. It also would change the name of the development from Dale Mabry Town Center to Arlington Dale Mabry master-planned development. The site is located on the southeast side of Dale Mabry Highway approximately onehalf mile south of the Dale Mabry Highway/US 41 intersection and abutting Hillsborough County to the south. The existing site has a Target and a bank, but the remaining portion is undeveloped. The Pasco County Planning Commission and county planners recommended approval of the request. The proposed project is outside of the temporary multifamily moratorium and the request is consistent with the county’s land development code, according to county planners. But Commissioners Jack Mariano and Mike Moore questioned the wisdom of swapping out commercial land — which can generate jobs — for more apartments. Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey said she wants to hear more from staff about how they define a “mixed-use” development.
“I feel like there’s a misunderstanding of mixed use,” she said.“I guess I always think of mixed use as vertically integrated uses. Attorney Truett Gardner, representing the applicant, told Starkey that the masterplanned community would be a mixed-use development because it has a bank, a retail store and would be adding multi-family. “The existing Target and the bank branch will remain.These are just some entitlements on the north side of the property that have never been utilized. In fact, this site has sat vacant in excess of 15 years, despite the zoning and despite the Target opening in 2008. “The site has struggled, I will say, to fill that retail,” he said.“Recently, the site has become a nuisance. It’s used for dumping, primarily, and there’s also a lot of tractor trailers that are just stored there, improperly,” Gardner said.. Starkey said:“I want to be fair to all multifamily that is coming to us. I know that we’re making others do things a little differently. “I’m trying to understand why we’re not asking for vertical mixed uses,” she said. Starkey also agreed with Moore and Mariano on this point:“We don’t want to be swapping out land that could create jobs for only residential. Moore made a motion to continue, to give commissioners a chance to talk to their staff. “I’m happy to talk to my client, talk to staff, talk to any of you about this and happy to take the continuance,” Gardner said. The board voted unanimously to bring the request back, to a date uncertain.
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Pasco County to get electric buses? By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
In the next few years, Go Pasco — the county’s public transportation system — may begin to go electric. Kurt Scheible, director of the county’s transit system, briefed the board of the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization about the potential for obtaining federal funds to begin rolling electric buses on local roads within a few years. “Things don’t happen overnight, but we do want to move forward toward something like that because I do think it is just beneficial for both Pasco County and the environment,” Scheible said. Plus, the buses are quieter and have fewer vibrations.
Because there are less vibrations, Scheible said,“they’re actually a little bit safer.” He explained why they’re safer: “You fly on a plane and you’re tired and you haven’t done anything — it’s just the vibrations that you’re with. It’s the same type of thing (for bus drivers).” He told the MPO board that it will likely be about a two-year process to get local and federal funding together to acquire the buses. “The good news is that we were with PSTA (Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority) when they went out for the electric bus bid. We were part of that, so we’ll be able to use that contract to purchase the buses,” Scheible said. Once he knows the cost, then the transit authority can get the MPO board’s input and move forward with seeking federal funding
for the buses. His best guess is that Pasco would get eight or nine electric buses and a charging station, with federal funding covering the lion’s share of the cost. Scheible expects to use the buses along U.S. 19, which is traveled by about one-third of the county’s transit customers. He estimated the electric buses will cost about $1 million each and the charging station likely will cost about the same amount. Federal funding will be sought to pay for the buses and the charging station, he said. The charging station would likely be on the north end of U.S. 19, on U.S. 52, where there’s an existing substation, Scheible said. He told the Pasco MPO board members to stay tuned because he expects to bring them updates on the issue in coming months.
The Pasco County MPO is the lead transportation planning agency in Pasco County that serves the following municipalities in Pasco: Zephyrhills, San Antonio, St. Leo, New Port Richey, Port Richey and Dade City. According to federal and state laws, the Pasco County MPO is responsible for establishing a continuing, cooperative and comprehensive transportation planning process for Pasco County. Key responsibilities are the creation of the 20-year Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), the five-year Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), and the five-year Transportation Improvement program. The MPO board is made up of representatives of the Pasco County Commission and elected leaders from Zephyrhills, Dade City, New Port Richey and Port Richey.
School district thanks county board for help during COVID-19 The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
Ray Gadd, deputy superintendent of Pasco County Schools, and Olga Swinson, the district’s chief finance officer, appeared before the Pasco County Commission at its Dec. 7 meeting, to thank the county for helping the school district when COVID-19 hit. “Early on in the pandemic, the school system was struggling — trying to figure out how to feed our students and our families; how we could buy devices for kids, so that we could do online learning,” Gadd told the county board. “I happened to be talking to
Commissioner (Commission Chairwoman Kathryn) Starkey and she said, ‘Well, you know we have this CARES Act funding, you might be able to get $1 million of that funding to help out.’” The acronym CARES stands for Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security. The school district pulled up the U.S. Treasury document on the implementation of the CARES Act and found out that schools could get funding, Gadd said, so it turned to County Administrator Dan Biles. Biles informed the district that the county board had authorized him to make sure
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the district’s request was funded, if it met the criteria. That resulted in $9 million in funding, Gadd said. “You, the County Commission funded (for) a lot of needs that the school district required (funding for) early on in the pandemic.” Swinson reported on the specifics to the county board. “We used the money for the development and implementation of online learning. As you know our students had to take online courses last year. “About 30% did that from home; the other 70% actually came into our schools.
“We distributed 17,000 computers to our students. “We also served over 1 million meals to students and families, across the entire county. “And, we used the money for all of the expenses associated with contact tracing.As you know, we had to do that last year, and we spent a lot of time doing that,” Swinson said. Starkey, a former school board member responded: “I’m really glad we could help the school district when they needed it because we (the county) got our money so fast.”
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What’s Happening
Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge
TEEN ADVISORY BOARD
Florida bird webinar
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host a Teen Advisory Board meeting on Jan. 6 at 4 p.m., for grades eight to 12. Participants can share ideas for library programs and ways to get involved in the community. Masks are recommended, but not required. Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org.
The Friends of Weedon Island will host a webinar entitled, “Learning Florida Upland and Backyard Birds,” on Jan. 15 at 10 a.m., for adults and families (kids ages 7 and older). The guest speaker will be wildlife biologist Jeanne Murphy. Participants can learn what birds are typically found in Florida’s upland and backyard habitats, how they adapted to live here and if that gives them a unique survival advantage. Registration is required at tinyurl.com/yc7wdr5v.
ONLINE SURVEY The 2021 Pasco County Online Citizen Survey is now available until Jan. 6. Feedback is needed on these topics: Utilities; parks and libraries; safety/emergency services; transportation; growth; and, importance/quality of services. Find the survey at My Pasco.net (click on survey link); on the MyPasco App (click on Citizen Survey button); on Pasco County’s Facebook,Twitter, Instagram and Nextdoor.com pages; or visit bit.ly/2021PascoSurvey.
MINI SKETCHBOOK The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host a hands-on workshop on Jan. 6 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., for ages 9 and older. Participants can learn to make a mini sketchbook (also called a ‘zine’), and receive guided instruction on drawing basics and ideas on how to fill the pages.All skill levels can attend. Supplies are provided.A signed safety waiver is required. Registration is online at PascoLibraries.org.
JUNIOR GARDENERS The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension will host the Junior Master Gardener Youth Education Series starting Jan. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon, for ages 8 to 12. The series is a virtual session one Saturday a month from January to May, with a final inperson session, and an induction ceremony scheduled for June.The topics will include: Florida-Friendly gardening practices; gardening fundamentals; new plant growing techniques; insects; and more.The program is $60 per child, and includes all activity materials, instruction and books. Registration is required online at bit.ly/3wF85iA.
VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a teen volunteer orientation on Jan. 8 at 3 p.m., for those interested in earning volunteer hours both in person and virtually.To register, visit PascoLibraries.org. For information, call the library at 813-788-6375.
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host a Korean Culture Club on Jan. 13 at 4 p.m., for grades six to 12. Participants can learn about Korean dishes and take home a bag of Korean snacks. Masks are recommended, but not required. Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org.
MYSTERY BOOK CLUB
COFFEE WITH A COP
The Hugh Embry Library staff will visit the Dade City Senior Center, 13853 15th St., in Dade City, to discuss “Lowcountry Bookshop: Liz Talbot Mystery No. 7” by Susan M. Boyer. Print copies are available at the New River Library desk, and on Hoopla as an e-audiobook.To register, visit PascoLibraries.org. For information, call the New River Library at 813-788-6375.
LEGO OPEN BUILD
POLICE LODGE BINGO
TRAIN RIDES
FLORAL DESIGN CLASSES
The Central Pasco & Gulf Railroad will offer train rides at Crews Lake Wilderness Park, 16739 Crews Lake Drive in Spring Hill, off Shady Hills Road, on Jan. 8.Train rides usually last about 10 to 15 minutes and depart the depot about every 8 to 10 minutes.The railroad is a 7.5 inch gauge layout with over 2 miles of track.The cost is $1 per ride.
The Dade City Garden Club will host a Floral Design Class Series, to help prepare its members and the community for participation in the club’s flower show scheduled for Spring 2023.The series will consist of three classes, and participants can attend any one or all three. Space is limited.The schedule is set for: • Jan. 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. — Creative Line and Creative Line Mass Design, at the Dade City Garden Club • Feb. 26 — Parallel Design • A fall class (to be announced) — The Color Orange Each hands-on class is $20, which covers all supplies needed to make and take home a finished design. Coffee and doughnuts will be served. Participants are asked to bring a sack lunch. Registration is open, and completed form and payment (check made payable to the Dade City Garden Club) must be submitted by Jan. 10. For a registration form or information, visit DadeCityGardenClub.com, or email Debbie Parks at dlgparks1@gmail.com.
PERENNIAL VEGETABLES
RAISING CANE FESTIVAL The Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, will host the Raising Cane and Moonshine Festival on Jan. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.The event will include sugar cane syrup-making in the Cane Mill; the Southern Syrup-Makers
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host an Adult Open Studio: Painting on Jan. 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., for all skill levels.The studio will be open the second Wednesday evening of every month. In these sessions, participants can learn, practice, and share techniques and resources with each other, and explore the medium of painting through a variety of materials.Walk-ins are welcome. For information, call 727-815-7126.
The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host “Day Squad: Cocoa Bombs” on Jan. 11 at 12:30 p.m., for nontraditional students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Participants can learn how to make cocoa ‘bombs’ from scratch. For information, call the library at 813-7886375.
COCOA ‘BOMBS’
The AARP Defensive Driver Class/Safe Driver Course will be offered for drivers age 50 and older, at these libraries: • The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, on Jan. 10 from 10:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. • The Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, on Jan. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For information and to register for either class, call Beverly Cogdill at 813-907-3908.
The Tampa Bay Ukulele Society will host its monthly Ukulele Jam at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, on Jan. 8 from noon to 2:30 p.m. Participants should bring their own ukulele.To register, visit PascoLibraries.org.
OPEN STUDIO
KOREAN CULTURE CLUB Association Syrup-Tasting Contest; a U.S. Sugar presentation; vendors and food trucks; live music with the Barking Dogs, Geared Up Band and JT Curtis; a tour of the Moonshine Exhibition, along with local moonshine stories and moonshine samples from the Tarpon Springs Distillery; axe throwing with Molly’s Hatchet; blacksmith demonstrations; model trains; and more.All museum buildings will be open.Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for students; free for ages younger than 5. Parking is free. For vendor information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.
John Nelson Memorial Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 29, near the corner of Bell Lake Road and Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, in Land O’ Lakes, offers bingo every Tuesday evening. (The new entrance to the lodge is off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, next to the Radiant Car Wash.) Doors open at 4 p.m., followed by bingo at 6 p.m. Drinks, hot dogs and pizza are available for purchase. Outside food and drinks are allowed. No one younger than the age of 18 will be admitted. For information, call 813-4065611, or visit foplodge29bingo on Facebook.
UKULELE JAM
Participants can learn to make glass luminaries.To register, visit PascoLibraries.org.
DRIVER’S CLASSES
The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will offer a seminar on perennial vegetable plants on Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. For information and registration, call the library at 813-788-6375.
NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society will meet on Jan. 11 at 7 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.The guest speaker will be Joel Jackson on the topic of “The History of Lettuce Lake Park.” Jackson is a 41-year member of the Florida Native Plant Society and a member of the Tampa Audubon Society. Guests should bring their own refreshments and drinks, and are asked to wear a mask. For information, call 813-469-9597.The chapter’s website is PascoNativePlants.org.
GLASS LUMINARIES The Hugh Embry Library staff will visit the Dade City Senior Center, 13853 15th St., in Dade City, on Jan. 12 at 10:15 a.m.
The Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO) will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Jan. 13 at 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Mitchell’s Coffee Time, 22299 State Road 54, Suite 102, in Land O’ Lakes. PSO deputies will be on hand to answer questions and to get to know their community. The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer a Lego Open Build on Jan. 14 from 3:45 p.m. to 5 p.m. Families can try some of the library’s challenges or build their own creations. For information, call 727-815-7126.
PLAY EXPLORES ADOLESCENCE The New Tampa Players will present “Black Butterfly, Jaguar Girl, Pinata Woman and Other Superhero Girls, Like Me” by Luis Alfaro from Jan. 15 to Jan. 23, at the Uptown Stage in University Mall, 2200 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa.The performance follows the lives of five girls living and growing up in east Los Angeles.All audience members are asked to wear a mask.Tickets are $20. For show times, information and tickets, visit NewTampaPlayers.org.
DADE CITY GARDEN CLUB The Dade City Garden Club will have a general membership meeting (open to the public) on Jan. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at 13630 Fifth St., in Dade City.There will be a presentation by Steve Melton on the impact of the watermelon industry on Pasco County. Light refreshments will be served. Door prizes will be awarded. For information, email Jackie German at jcgerm@tampabay.rr.com, or visit DadeCityGardenClub.com.
DEMOCRATIC CLUB The East Pasco Democratic Club will meet on Jan. 17, via Zoom.The guest speaker will be Jessica Stempien, Pasco Democratic Executive Committee chairwoman. Socializing starts at 6 p.m., followed by the meeting at 6:30 p.m. For information, email eastpascodems@gmail.com, or call 813-3838315.
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Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com
NEW STAFF MEMBER
Victory High School in Pasco County has welcomed a new teacher, Melissa Curtis, to its team. Curtis is a Tampa native who relocated to Pasco County a year ago. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of South Florida and has completed graduate coursework toward obtaining a master’s degree in English education. Curtis’ favorite subjects to teach are English and culinary. She also volunteers in the community for Meals on Wheels.
LOOKING FOR STUDENTS IN NEED
Navarro Orthodontics in Land O’ Lakes is asking local schools to participate in its quest to commit $50,000 of orthodontic treatment to students in need. Teachers can help to identify students in need of orthodontic care, who may not otherwise be able to afford or have access to treatment. Once candidates are identified, the student must write an essay stating who they are, what their dreams are, how they will contribute to the community in the future, and why they need or want orthodontic treatment.Written consent from the parent of the student will be required, too. For information and questions, email dr.jn@navarroorthodontics.com, or call 813321-0084.
NEW BOARD MEMBER
The Florida Recovery Schools of Tampa Bay Inc. Board of Directors has welcomed
The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about news from our local schools, including upcoming events, photos of events, recognitions and so on. Submissions need to include who, what, where, when, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. Please send your information two weeks prior to desired publication date, and email it to news@lakerlutznews.com. If you would like The Laker/Lutz News to consider coverage of an event, send a request to the same email.
Victor Lupis, owner and CEO of Dynasty Building Solutions, as a new board member. When Lupis is not working, he spends time with his family and friends, on his boat fishing in the Gulf, or at church. “The way to success is not by material, not by money, but making the people around you achieve their goals and ambitions,” said Lupis in a news release.
FEE ADJUSTMENT MEETING
The Pasco-Hernando State College’s District Board of Trustees (DBOT) will consider approving proposed adjusted course-related fees at its Jan. 18 board meeting. Fee adjustment proposals are reviewed and approved for DBOT consideration by PHSC’s Council of Academic Affairs, a committee that includes representation by administrators, deans, academic department chairs, program directors, faculty and staff. Many fee adjustments relate to vendor increases for workforce courses, laboratories, and program testing. Some fees may be covered by financial aid, scholarships and grants. For details regarding proposed fee adjustments, justification for the fees and fee implementation details, please visit Policies.phsc.edu, and click on Policies and Procedures, Public Disclosure.
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Pasco County native and first-generation student Jacob Browne has graduated in three years from Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program, according to a news release. At 9 years old, Browne knew exactly what he wanted to become – a broadcaster, and was inspired by Joe Buck’s play-by-play of the 2009 World Series, the release says. As a member of the Emerging Scholars Program, Browne earned a Bachelor of Arts in multimedia studies, and served as the voice of FAU baseball and football, eventually becoming the sports director for the station. Browne also had the opportunity to work in NFL Super Bowl Radio Row in Miami in 2020 and in Tampa in 2021, interviewing players and media sportscasters. He also launched his own show, Strictly Sports on Owl Radio, and interned at SiriusXM PGA Tour Sports Programming. Browne now is the play-by-play broadcaster for the Forest City Owls in Forest City, North Carolina, where he announces every baseball game, hosts the pre- and post-game shows, and conducts interviews with players and coaches.
COURTESY OF ALEXIS SOBEL
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GROWTH, from page 1A Zephyrhills. “The fact is that the need for housing is just exploding statewide.Tampa is running out of space,” said Todd Vande Berg, Zephyrhills’ planning director. “We were the next logical location.” The widening of State Road 56 to four lanes opened Zephyrhills to more development,Vande Berg said. He also noted that city officials have worked to ensure that residential projects were not “cookie-cutter.” Abbott Square, as an example, will offer one-story villas, two-story townhouses, and will feature three different lot sizes. “I think people appreciate that. Not all residential is on 40-foot-wide lots like every other development,” he said. Preserving trees, installing sidewalks and adding trails are highlights of new residential development. Zephyrhills is building on Pasco’s countywide efforts to attract tourism through an emphasis on sports facilities such as the Sarah Vande Berg tennis center. In coming months,Vande Berg said the tennis center will add dormitories to accommodate increasing interest in tournaments and training opportunities. The facility also is attracting new residential including the Abbott Square project.The Lennar Homes development, on Simons Road behind the tennis center, will build about 700 residential units of single-family houses, townhouses, and apartments. Abbott Park, off Kossik Road near Zephyr Commons, is a new residential community by Metro Places. Summerstone is a new single-family and townhome development, off State Road 56, west of Morris Bridge Road. It is located in
Heavy equipment prepares land for the construction of a new Radiant Gas Station and other retail on the west side of Gall Boulevard, in Zephyrhills. FRED BELLET
Wesley Chapel, just a short distance west of Zephyrhills. Chipotle’s restaurant recently opened at Zephyr Commons. Planet Fitness had a recent ribbon-cutting. Chick-Fil-A opened, too, on an outparcel of the shopping center on the northeast corner with Pretty Pond Road. More retail is anticipated. And plans for the site include about 400 residential units. The Pretty Pond intersection is becoming a hub for Zephyrhills shoppers, who are adding Zephyr Commons to their destinations along with established plazas along Gall Boulevard (U.S. 301), including Merchants Square, Towne View Square Shopping Center, and North Town Center. On the west side of Gall Boulevard, at Pretty Pond, the former site of Rainbow Court and Brightside Manor mobile home park, is being prepped for new commercial development. A sign planted at the site advertises a coming Radiant gas station and convenience store.A car wash also is antici-
pated at the site. Zephyrhills’ downtown, on Fifth Avenue, is enjoying its own commercial revival. The opening of Zephyrhills Brewing Company in 2016 set the stage for renewed interest in downtown, said Melonie Monson, president, and chief executive officer of The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce. “It has been an economic driver,” she said.“It’s brought traffic in on weekends.” New shops opening within the past year include Vintage Chix, a boutique clothing store; A.O.K., a sports bar featuring axe throwing; and Your Turn, a board game café that serves coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and a choice of hundreds of board games to play. Tina & Joe’s Café opened recently in the historic Jeffries House, built in 1910 for Zephyrhills’s founder Captain A. B. Jeffries. The café serves salads, sandwiches, lobster rolls and desserts. Also, Planet Jupiter, a hookah lounge, is
“coming soon” to a storefront on Fifth Avenue. “Our downtown is really growing,” said Monson. On Gall Boulevard, near downtown, Jerry’s Crystal Bar reopened after being ravaged by fire in 2020. Checkers on Gall and Culver’s on Eiland Boulevard are new additions to the quick service food options. The chamber recently hosted a ribboncutting for Hoops Heaven, on Chancey Road along the city’s industrial corridor.The indoor training facility offers basketball training for youth in the Zephyrhills and Wesley Chapel area. Hoops Heaven adds to both Zephyrhills’ and Pasco County’s goal of advocating for sports and ecotourism to build economic growth and bring jobs,Vande Berg said. “Someone came from out of town and saw a need for youth basketball,” the planning director said.
COVID, from page 1A
FRED BELLET
Stops along the several miles saw remedies to environmental concerns. Pouring from the staff vehicles, County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, pictured far left, leads the way as staff members, media and county commissioners observe a wildlife tunnel for critters wanting to cross from the south side of the new roadway to the north side.
RIDGE ROAD, from page 1A extension getting ready to be opened up,” he said.“It’s been such a long time coming.” The other two lanes of the 4.2-mile segment — from Town Center Road to Suncoast Parkway — are anticipated to be finished by fall 2022. Meanwhile, the second leg of the extension, which is slated for completion in 2025, will extend Ridge Road to U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes. Total construction cost of the entire project is nearly $161 million, with over $151 million in project county funding. Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore recently announced that he had asked State Rep.Ardian Zika and State Sen. Ed Hooper to sponsor legislation seeking $14 million for the project, adding they both have agreed to do so. The completion date for the second leg might be accelerated, if the Florida Legislature provides additional funding for the project. County officials have pushed for the extension for decades, justifying the need for it to provide an additional east-west hurricane evacuation route. The 9-mile extension, once completed to U.S. 41, also will relieve traffic on State Road 52 and State Road 54, the only two through east-west roads that carry traffic across the county. “It’s going to alleviate on (State Road) 54 and (State Road) 52,” Mariano said.“It’s going to provide that hurricane evacuation route that’s so desperately needed, not only for Pasco County, but for Pinellas County, as well.” He added,“The amount of time it saves, is about six hours for the evacuation, so it just makes our people that much safer and our community that much stronger.
Vehicles traveling south on the Suncoast Parkway pass over the Ridge Road extension. The area under the parkway’s underpass is still under construction.
The extension also will support the area’s burgeoning growth. A huge development known as the Angeline community will be rising on thousands of acres, south of State Road 52 and west of U.S. 41. The future growth includes a 775-acre Pasco campus planned by Moffitt Cancer Center, near the Ridge Road and Suncoast Parkway interchange. Moffitt’s campus is expected to become a magnet for life sciences research. The county’s elected leaders and economic development experts also expect Moffitt’s development to have a transformative effect on the area’s future development and to generate thousands of jobs. Said Mariano,“With Moffitt coming in, it’s going to be a great boost for the economy, and allow easy access for west Pasco residents who want to work there, and back and forth.”
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In reflecting upon the impacts of the pandemic, Kennedy said beyond presenting challenges, it also has offered valuable lessons. And, as she looks ahead to 2022, she’s optimistic about the opportunities that await. Going back to the beginning of the pandemic, Kennedy said: “None of us was prepared for any of this that was coming.” It has been challenging and particularly painful for enterprises that didn’t survive, she said. But those who made it through, are emerging stronger, Kennedy said. “We’re better business leaders. We are more in tune with our businesses,” the chamber executive said. “What I saw most is that people were able to say:‘OK, we’ve been doing this forever and ever.We can’t do it that way.What can we do to still deliver our product, our goods, our services in a more efficient manner?’” The companies and organizations that were able to key in on their essential mission and to adapt their operations have become more focused and efficient, she said. The chamber, itself, was forced to change. It went to remote operations within hours. “We eliminated some of our programs,” she said, which also is true for many businesses. Now, as businesses look to the future, they need to ask: “What are the barriers? What are things that are stopping us?” For instance, workforce and affordable housings are big issues. “There are some barriers to entry of people in the workforce. There’s barriers to entry in affordable housing,” Kennedy said. “So, what can we do to have conversations, to just see what those barriers are — because chances are, we can get around them,” she said. The silver lining from the pandemic, Kennedy said, is that it offered time for introspection, and “it has opened our (way of) thinking.” Attracting employees and training those who want to reenter the workforce are topics of conversation across the community, Kennedy said. There’s no silver bullet to ever-evolving workforce issues, but the chamber plans to lead conversations on the issue, she said. “It is a huge focus at the chamber for the coming year, to make sure we understand the needs of the businesses and what they are looking for,” Kennedy said. “Pasco-Hernando Career Source is going to be a huge help to the business community, in these coming years. One, identifying
COURTESY OF NORTH TAMPA BAY CHAMBER
Hope Kennedy is CEO and president of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.
the need of the workforce and two, connecting the training,” she said. “There is a (national) program called Second-Chance Hiring, and it’s for folks who have been formerly incarcerated, and/or have a felony on their record,” she said. “I want in on it.” People with a criminal record are often automatically knocked out of consideration for job openings, Kennedy said. “There’s an opportunity for us, as business leaders, to come up with a system,” she said, aimed at helping employers fill jobs and giving applicants a chance to work — who want to work, but are barred from entry. She pointed to Walmart as an employer who gives applicants a second chance, on a case-by-case basis. Over the course of her career in chamber work, Kennedy said she’s faced an assortment of difficult times. She dealt with the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan, while she was working in Pensacola.Then came the Great Recession, then the BP oil spill. When COVID hit, reactions varied from place to place, Kennedy. Some chambers across the country ceased operations because they were not technically ready to make the shift to virtual operations,” she said. “Some communities crumbled. Ours came together. “Our community rallied. “We rallied around each other. We had takeout Tuesdays,” she said. “We did a ‘We are Open’ campaign,” she said, using social media to spread the word. She said COVID reinforced a lesson she grasped in other turbulent times. “I learned that in every single adversity, there is a solution. “There absolutely is a solution. “It might not be right in front of you. “You can’t lose sight of your ultimate goal,” Kennedy said.
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Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
2021 offered special moments in local sports Zephyrhills football volunteers receive permanent honor
By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
T
his past year levied countless memories in the local sports scene — from shattered records and career achievements for individuals and teams, to several major events and showcases in the area. Here is a look back at some of the moments in sports in 2021, from across Pasco and Hillsborough counties, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area. (This is Part Two of a two-part series.)
FILE
The Freedom High School girls swimming and diving team finished in fifth place at the 3A state championships last month in Stuart. The squad collected seven medals, including the 200-yard medley relay and 200-yard freestyle relay. From left: freshman Alex LaBohn, senior Carly Joerin, senior Michelle Morgan and senior Alexa Valdez Velez.
Freedom High swimmer wins state title FILE
Tampa Bay Lightning prospect, goalie Hugo Alnefelt, No. 60, blocks a shot by Carolina Hurricane prospect Blaker Murray, No. 85, during action at the 2021 Lightning Prospect Showcase at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel.
Future NHL stars showcase skills in Wesley Chapel For a few days, the National Hockey League’s (NHL) next generation of talent skated into Pasco County — showing puck fans and pro scouts their skills in shot-making, blocking, toughness and teamwork. AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel was the site of the 2021 NHL Prospect Showcase, held from Sept. 18 through Sept. 21. Hosted by the back-to-back Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning, the event also welcomed prospect teams from the Carolina Hurricanes, Nashville Predators and Florida Panthers. With it being the Lightning’s turn to coordinate the event, the Wesley Chapel-based facility provided an ideal locale. The 150,000-square-foot complex — the largest ice sports facility in the southeastern United States — is known for having four full-sized ice rinks and a mini-rink housed under one roof. Aside from sheets of ice, the facility was designed to meet various NHL specifications, all the way down to specific railings and glass around the boards. The facility also features an on-site sports medicine clinic with an evaluation and treatment room; a fully equipped fitness center with over 2,000 square feet of space; and a 90-yard indoor track turf. Those features, plus the accessibility to on-site hotels and restaurants, as well as nearby Saddlebrook Resort, were other selling factors for the Lightning and other franchises, officials said. Each prospect team featured a couple players who’ll likely see time in the NHL this year, which only added to the event’s allure. Twenty-year-old Panthers goalie Spencer Knight fit that description. Last year, Knight became the first goaltender to ever have played both in the Stanley Cup playoffs and NCAA (at Boston College) in the same season. Meantime, Lightning fans received a glimpse of the franchise’s wave of younger talent over the course of the four-day competition. The Lightning’s 24-man prospect squad finished the tournament as the only team with a perfect 3-0 record.They never trailed in any of their three tournament wins against the Hurricanes, Panthers and Predators.
Local athletes and teams performed well at the 2021 FHSAA (Florida High School Athletic Association) State Swimming and Diving Championships. But it was Freedom High senior Michelle Morgan who registered the best individual showing among all area swimmers. The Division I University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill verbal commit took gold in the 3A 200-yard individual medley, clocking 2:01.06 to finish ahead of Gainesville High senior Katherine Sammy (2:01.90). Morgan also won the event last year, posting a 2:00.92. The Freedom High swimmer collected additional individual hardware in 2021, taking silver in the 3A 500-yard freestyle. Her time of 4:53.78 trailed only Chiles High senior Stella Watts, who swam in 4:46.86 in the event.
Morgan also was a leg on the Patriots’ medal-earning 200-yard medley and 200-yard freestyle relay teams, which finished fourth and fifth, respectively. Other Freedom relay members were seniors Carly Joerin and Alexa Valdez Velez, and freshman Alex LaBohn. Altogether, Morgan helped pace Freedom to arguably its best showing in program history.The girls squad finished fifth at states, won its first-ever regional title, and also claimed district and conference crowns. “We had a phenomenal season,” Freedom head swim coach John Olewski wrote in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. “Assistant Coach Catherine Wright and I are so proud of the Freedom swimmers and divers. The administration, faculty, staff and students of Freedom High School applaud the Freedom Swim & Dive team members and join them in celebrating their many successes this season.”
Kevin Cash claims second-straight manager award Tampa Bay Rays manager division that featured three other Kevin Cash — a Lutz native and teams that won 90-plus games Gaither High product — became (Boston Red Sox, New York the first American League (AL) Yankees,Toronto Blue Jays). manager to win Manager of the Besides wins and losses, Cash Year twice in a row, announced by receives high marks for his everthe Baseball Writers’Association of changing batting orders, America (BBWAA) in November. unconventional pitching usage, Also, Cash is only the second and ability to maintain a positive manager to win such a BBWAA culture in the team clubhouse. Manager of the Year Award in Locally, Cash grew up in the back-to-back seasons — joining Valley Ranch Drive neighborBobby Cox, who did so with the Kevin Cash hood across from Lake Park in National League’s Atlanta Braves in Lutz, along North Dale Mabry 2004 and 2005. Highway. Cash was recognized for steering the His baseball notoriety began as a young Rays to a franchise-best 100-62 regular sea- boy. son mark in 2021. (However, the Rays Some three-plus decades ago, he was a playoff dreams ended sooner than expected, 12-year-old second baseman on the 1989 losing to the Red Sox in four games in the Northside Little League team that reached AL Division Series in October). the 43rd Little League World Series. He did so under weighty circumstances, He later would star at Gaither High and with one of the sport’s lowest payrolls, a Florida State University through the midbevy of injuries (33 different players being and late- 1990s before enjoying an eight-year placed on the injured list) and a competitive MLB career as a journeyman catcher.
Greg First and Kerry Ryman have witnessed their fair share of Zephyrhills High School football games over the last 40 years or so. They’ve played a notable role over that time, too, with First providing play-by-play as stadium announcer, and Ryman operating the clock and scoreboard. In many ways, the friendly pair were synonymous with Zephyrhills High athletics. Because of those varied efforts, the Zephyrhills High press box at Tom Fisher Field in Bulldog Stadium officially was named the First-Ryman Press Box — during a pregame ceremony in October. The press box dons the volunteers’ names in large black font with an orange backdrop — the school’s signature colors; Zephyrhills students designed and painted the press box’s new look, as a show of gratitude. Year in and year out, First and Ryman built their respective Friday nights in football season around Bulldog football. First had to be locked in on all aspects of the game — taking cues from spotters and properly pronouncing players’ names on a particular offensive or defensive play, all while peppering in various school announcements and sponsorships throughout the game, as his voice was heard by everyone from the stadium’s booming sound speakers. Ryman, meanwhile, had to pay rapt attention to the game’s head official, monitoring various starts and stoppages in action and other game situations, while simultaneously following specific clock and scoring procedures. As a part of the action for so long, First and Ryman were in on many highs, some lows and countless unforgettable occurrences.“There’s so many memories over the years that you really could write a book,” First told The Laker/Lutz News. The two men relinquished their press box volunteering duties this season, after serving for some four decades. Their press box presence may be gone, but it won’t soon be forgotten.
FILE
Kerry Ryman and Greg First receive plaques and recognition for their 40 years of voluntary service providing play-by-play and scoreboard duties for the Zephyrhills High School Bulldogs football team.
Bishop McLaughlin baseball coach brings major league pedigree Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School tabbed a decorated big-leaguer to lead its pedigreed baseball program, back in August. His name is Rob Ducey, and he spent parts of 13 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB) between 1987 to 2001 — playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, California Angels, Texas Rangers, Seattle Mariners, Philadelphia Phillies and Montreal Expos. A left-handed hitting outfielder, Ducey played over 700 games in the majors, posting a .242 batting average, .331 on-base percentage, .396 slugging percentage, with 309 hits, 190 runs, 146 RBIs, 31 home runs and 22 stolen bases. Ducey later served as a hitting coach in the minor leagues for the New York Yankees, Expos and Phillies; and was a talent scout for the Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Rays. This baseball lifer status — and one of the very few Canadian big-leaguers — has
FILE
Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School has tabbed former major-leaguer Rob Ducey, pictured, to lead its baseball program.
Ducey enshrined into both the Cambridge Sports Hall of Fame (2006) and the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and
IInjured? njured?
Museum (2013). All told, Ducey has been involved with professional baseball in some shape or form for over 37 years. And now, the 56-year-old Tarpon Springs resident is taking his varied experiences to the Hurricanes varsity baseball program, which has won five district championships and two regional championships, and has made a pair of state final four appearances Ducey has clear expectations for the area team he takes over. “Obviously, I want the pitchers to throw strikes, I want the defenders to handle the baseball, and the hitters to be able to situational hit,” he said, in an exclusive interview with The Laker/Lutz News. “We may not have the most ability on the field, but you’re going to know that you’ve got to fight, and if we do that every single day we come out and work improves in those areas, then it’ll be a successful year.”
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Classical guitars are this Lutz man’s passion By Kathy Steele Special to The Laker/Lutz News
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ashington Giorgio Castaldi is a patient craftsman as he works alone in his small garage workshop.With care and precision, he shapes exotic woods into the style and form of classical and flamenco guitars. It can take up to three months of work for him to reach the point where he’s satisfied with the tones and beauty of each guitar. He listens to his favorite classical and flamenco musicians – often the Gipsy Kings and Armik - as he works. But in this space, as he perfects each guitar, it doesn’t feel like work. “Building guitars is my passion,” said Castaldi, owner of The Spanish Guitar Shop. As he works on each guitar, he said,“I’m in another world. It makes me feel great. I’m doing something that will last.” Castaldi’s guitar shop is based in his home, in Lutz. But he travels, too, to Orlando and Miami, where some of his clients live. When not making his own guitars, he mends and repairs vintage, classical and flamenco guitars. He is a longtime member of the Guild of American Luthiers, a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the art and craft of building, repairing and restoring stringed instruments. If they’re stringed — ukuleles, mandolins, even electric guitars – Castaldi can repair them. Landing in his current profession, at his Lutz location, came after Castaldi literally traveled the world.
FRED BELLET
Washington Giorgio Castaldi strums one of his guitars as he talks about the different tones of guitars.
DEEP FAMILY ROOTS IN ITALY
Castaldi’s family traces its roots in Italy through seven generations. His American-style first name comes from his father, Edison Washington Castaldi. He grew up in Uruguay, where his parents established the family after World War II. Members of his family are now scattered — living in Uruguay, Argentina and Spain. His love for Spanish and Latin Washington Giorgio Castaldi chisels the bracing of a guitar in its early stage music emanates from his her- of construction. The pattern of the bracing, says Castaldi, affects the sound itage. A decorative fleur-de-lis is carved around the guitar’s sound hole. of the guitar. “I listen every day,” he said. And, as he works, he listens to music. The Big Red books contain First came his love for classical and flaarticles gleaned from the menco music. Then, over the years, he American Luthier magazine. developed his craft as a luthier. Castaldi is self-taught, learning He is a world traveler — sailing aboard through experience and by purcruise ships for 28 years as an engineer, suing information to satisfy his most frequently based out of Miami. curiosity. He met his wife, Jackie, while she was a His knowledge of wood and passenger on one of those cruises. its effect on sound tone is vast. Initially, carpentry was a hobby — allowFor instance, he said, dark ing him to make useful items when he was wood keeps the resonance in off duty. the tone; light woods produce He started with simple furniture pieces – brighter and crisper tones. chairs, tables and benches. He’s looking forward to the His skills evolved over time — into maknext luthier convention in ing and repairing intricate guitars, as well as Washington State, which is other stringed instruments. planned for Summer 2023. The family moved to Tampa in 2008. It had been set for 2022, but When Castaldi retired, they settled in was rescheduled due to COVIDLutz. His wife works in Tampa for Homeland 19. Security. One of the joys of being a No longer sailing the seas, Castaldi inluthier is meeting people who vests his time nurturing his relatively new share his passion for classical business venture. guitars. One of his first efforts in guitar repair In his workshop, Washington Giorgio Castaldi works on the bridge of an acoustic guitar. Talking about guitars can prowas on his son’s electric guitar. He made his voke special memories, Castaldi first flamenco guitar in 2010. said. As a teenager in Uruguay, Castaldi played Castaldi said. A shelf in Castaldi’s den is lined with Recently, for instance, he had a conversain a band with friends. A career in musical One of his prized possessions is a 1945 books about guitars and about wood, and he tion with a caller about a Juan Orosco performance wasn’t in his future, but music Jose Ramirez II guitar. refers to them, in the midst of projects. guitar. and guitars remained a constant pleasure in The Ramirez family is world-renowned The materials have titles including, Castaldi’s first guitar, when he was 16, his life. through four generations of making Spanish “Understanding Wood,”“Identifying Wood,” was an Orosco. He describes his musical talent with hu- classical and flamenco guitars, dating from and two volumes of “The Big Red Book of The caller’s question, the luthier said, mility: “I play enough to make (guitars),” the late 1880s. America Luthieres.” “took me back to my teen years.”
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Enjoy some of our favorite wildlife photos from 2021 Whether it flies, ambles, or swims — our readers have put their photography skills to use to capture images of myriad wildlife living in our communities. Lucky for us, they’ve shared those pictures of birds, snakes and four-legged creatures with our readers. If you missed them, here’s another chance to take a look. If you saw them, here’s an opportunity to enjoy them again. Thank you, readers, for sharing your local wildlife stories and photos. Keep them coming in 2022!
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PET PAWS WHALE CALVING SEASON
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) says boaters and anglers should be on the lookout for North Atlantic Right Whales that are calving in state and federal waters of Florida, Georgia and South Carolina through April, according to an FWC news release. These endangered mammals (there are fewer than 350 left) can be hard to spot, and collisions can cause costly damage to boats, put passengers and crew at risk, and injure or kill right whales. The FWC says, in the release, to protect your boat and crew by exercising these precautions: • Go slow, which can give you time to react. • Post a lookout to watch for black objects, whitewater and splashes. • Avoid boating in the dark, when visibility is poor, or in rough seas. • Use the Whale Alert app for information on whether whales recently have been sighted or reported in the area. • Check for signage at the local boat ramp or marina as a reminder of what to look for and how to identify and report right whale sightings. • If a whale is spotted, slow down, operate at slow speed or put the engine in neutral if possible. Assess the scene and slowly leave the area while keeping watch. Never pursue or follow a whale and keep a least 500 yards from right whales (it’s the law). • Report whale sightings and collisions immediately to the U.S. Coast Guard on marine VHF Ch. 16, or call 877-9425343. To learn more about the steps to prevent right whale collisions, visit MyFWC.com/Research, and click on “Wildlife.”
GROUPER/SNAPPER CHANGES
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) issued these changes to look for during grouper and snapper season. Several species of grouper and snapper either opened or closed to harvest in Gulf and Atlantic state waters, as of Jan. 1.
• Red grouper reopened to recreational harvest in Gulf state waters (excluding Monroe County). • Blackfin, silk, queen and wenchman snappers reopened to recreational and commercial harvest in Gulf state waters. • Gag grouper closed to recreational harvest in Gulf state waters. • Gag, black, red, yellowmouth and yellowfin grouper; scamp; red hind; rock hind; coney; and graysby closed to recreational and commercial harvest in Atlantic state waters (including Monroe County). For more information on regulations, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and select “Recreational Regulations,” or download the Fish Rules app at Instagram.com/FishRulesApp or go to Facebook.com/FishRulesApp.
DOGS’ DAY COMING UP
The 12th annual Dogs’ Day in Dade City is scheduled for March 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Agnes Lamb Park, 14200 Ninth St., in Dade City, across from The Edwinola on Meridian Avenue. There will be a dog wagon parade at 10:30 a.m.; a dog costume contest at 11 a.m.; a K-9 challenge at noon; Canine Got Talent at 12:30 p.m.; and an ice cream/yogurt-eating contest at 1:30 p.m. All dogs must be on a leash. Interested vendors can contact Lucy Avila at LucyAvila707@gmail.com or 352424-49672.
SHARE YOUR PET NEWS
If you have pet news about adoptions, walks or other events for pet owners and their pets, you can let us know by sending us an email. We just need the basics: who, what, when, where and why. The information should be submitted two weeks prior to the desired publication date. We also need a contact name and number, in case we have questions. There is no guarantee of publication, 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.
Milo is a silly boy Milo is sure to make you laugh! He loves car rides and soft blankets. Although he is a senior at 8 years old, he still has a lot of pep and energy. This 75-pound boy could use some work on his manners, but he responds well to the proper corrections. Milo is not fond of sharing his food; therefore, he would do best in a home with adults or older children. He has participated in playgroups with other dogs, exhibiting both a gentle, quieter style of play and a willingness to engage in a game of chase. Milo will need a home without cats.
PUT YOUR PET IN THE SP POTLIGHT! We are looking for photos and information on your favorite pet. Include in your short story your pet’s name, age e, and breed.
Don’t forget rg to include the owner’’ss name and city of residence! Send photo and information to:
The LAKERR//LLutz L NEW WS Email to: mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, SUBJEC CT:: Pet of the Week e Mail to: , P..O. Box 4 479, Lutz, FL 33548
Molly is a wonderful senior girl Molly is 10 years old and weighs about 55 pounds. She knows basic commands, walks well on a leash and is house-trained. She has participated in playgroups with other dogs, exhibiting both a gentle, quieter style of play and a willingness to engage in a game of chase. Mollie loves squeaky toys and a good game of fetch. She does have a few health concerns that Animal Services staff can discuss with you.
If you would like to adopt Milo or Molly, 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.
SOLUTIONS, PAGE 9B
The LAKER / Lutz NEWS WORD SEARCH & SUDOKU AFRICAN
CROPS
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CULTURAL
JOYOUS
BLACK
DETERMINATION
PRINCIPLES
CANDLESTICKS
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COMMUNAL
FEAST
RED
COMMUNITY
GIFTS
RESPONSIBILITY
CORN
GREEN
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CREATIVITY
HERITAGE
UNITY
To solve a SUDOKU, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!
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Local residents can record their stories for StoryCorps The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report If you’ve ever tuned into WUSF Public Media, there’s a chance you may have heard stories recorded for StoryCorps. Now, the oral history project is visiting Tampa, to give Tampa Bay residents the chance to share their stories, which, with the participants’ permission, will be archived at the Library of Congress, according to a news release. StoryCorps is a national nonprofit organization that’s dedicated to recording, preserving and sharing the stories of people from all backgrounds and beliefs. It will be in Tampa from Jan. 5 through Feb. 14 to record interviews, in person and virtually, as part of its Mobile Tour, the release says. Reservations to record can be made by calling StoryCorps’ 24-hour toll-free reservation line at 1-800-850-4406, or by visiting StoryCorps.org. In a StoryCorps interview, two people
record a meaningful conversation with one another about who they are, what they’ve learned in life, and how they want to be remembered, according to the release. A trained StoryCorps facilitator guides them through the interview process. After each 40-minute recording session, participants receive a digital copy of their interview, and with the participants’ OK, a second copy is archived at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress for future generations to hear. StoryCorps was founded in 2003 by Dave Isay and has traveled to every corner of the country to record interviews. In Tampa, StoryCorps will partner with NPR affiliate WUSF Public Media.WUSF will air a selection of the local interviews and create special programs around the project. StoryCorps also may share excerpts of these stories with the world through the project’s popular weekly NPR broadcasts, animated shorts, digital platforms, and bestselling books.
Honoring the fallen
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The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club donated funds to provide for 15 wreaths to be laid at the graves of veterans interred in the American Legion Cemetery in Tampa, as part of the national Wreaths Across America project. Club members attended the emotional flag ceremony before respectfully placing the individual wreaths and acknowledging each veteran’s name aloud, followed by a moment of silence. Madeline McCulloh stands next to a veteran’s gravesite after laying a wreath. For information on this community service organization, visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or its Facebook page.
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Suncoast 75th branch opening
Safety evaluation for home and property
By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco Sheriff’s Office encourages citizens to complete a home safety evaluation, to help protect your home and property from intruders and thieves, according to a news release. Break-ins can occur within seconds, especially when it comes to empty houses. The PSO offers these safety tips, even if you aren’t on vacation and away from home for an extended period of time: • Ensure all exterior doors have working locks • Ensure all windows have working locks • Keep spare keys with a trusted neighbor, not near the door • Secure bikes in a shed or garage, or be
sure they are locked up • Have a functioning light near all exterior doors • Ensure gate latches and fences are in good working condition • Consider a secondary lock for sliding glass doors • Keep outdoor plants near windows trimmed, to eliminate hiding places • Ensure items like grills, lawn mowers or other valuables are secured when not in use • Remove valuables and lock your car doors each night For the most current PSO news, visit News.PascoSheriff.com.
In celebration of its 75th branch opening, Suncoast Credit Union has donated $75,000 to local nonprofits and charitable organizations across its service area. Each of Suncoast’s 75 branches selected a local charity within the community it serves to receive $1,000. Supporting local communities is a “cornerstone of the credit union’s mission and values and allows local autonomy in funding the highest and greatest needs,” according to a news release. “Giving back to the community is at the heart of Suncoast Credit Union, and we are excited that we were able to celebrate having 75 branches with donations that will help make an impact locally, in the communities our members call home,” said Kevin Johnson, president and CEO, in the release. “The pandemic has created greater needs across a wide spectrum and our hope
is that we can help, especially during the end-of-year holiday season,” said Johnson. The distribution of the donations took place throughout December. These seven charitable centers in Pasco County each received $1,000: • Pasco Kids First,Trinity • Suncoast Kids Place, Land O’ Lakes • Make a Difference, Dade City • Sunrise of Pasco County Inc., Zephyrhills • FMC Foundation of Caring,Wiregrass • NAMI of Pasco County, Port Richey • Camp Idlewild, Holiday Other recipients included Hillsborough County, 16 donations; Pinellas County, 4; Hernando County, 3; Citrus County, 2; Polk County, 2; Sumter County, 3; Manatee County, 4; Sarasota County, 4; Hardee County, 1; DeSoto County, 1; Highlands County, 1; Levy County, 1; Lee County, 14; Collier County, 7; Charlotte County, 4; and Hendry County, 1.
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Health
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.
&
Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com
Finding fulfillment
Integrative Healing at OM will present a wellness lecture,“Finding Fulfillment in Life,” on Jan. 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center, 4242 Lake in the Woods Drive, in Spring Hill. For information and to register, call 352600-4242, or visit WellComeOMCenter.com.
Patient advocacy
The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Becoming Your Own Patient Advocate” on Jan. 10 at 6 p.m., virtually, for adults.The session is part of the Libraries Build Communities initiative. The guest speaker will be consumer health librarian Jessica Daly, on the topic of how to look online for free and trustworthy health information. For more information, please visit HCPLC.org/LibrariesBuildCommunities.To register, visit HCPLC.org.
Tai Chi Tuesdays
The Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, will present Tai Chi Tuesdays on Jan. 11 at 11 a.m.This is an introductory class on sun-style Tai Chi, suitable for anyone who wants to improve their balance. Class size is limited.Weekly registration is required. Registration begins each Wednesday prior to the class. For information, call 813-780-0064.
BARIATRIC SEMINAR
AdventHealth Dade City will host a free bariatric seminar,“Imagine a Healthier You,” on Jan. 12 at 6 p.m., at AdventHealth Wesley Chapel’s Wellness Center, 2700 Healing Way,
in the second-floor conference room. The guest speaker will be Dr. Naga Thatimatla, bariatric surgeon, on the topic of surgical weight-loss options. Registration is required by calling 833-300-2371, or online at tinyurl.com/HealthierYou2022.
CHAIR EXERCISE
The Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, will present Sit & Be Fit (chair exercise) on Jan. 12 at 11 a.m. This is an introduction to chair exercise, which emphasizes cardio-toning and stretching. Routines are performed while sitting on or balancing with chairs. Class size is limited.Weekly registration is required. Registration begins each Thursday prior to the class. For information, call 813-780-0064.
HEALING LECTURE
Integrative Healing at OM will present a wellness lecture, “Authentic Healing for Sustainable Living,” on Jan. 18 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at the WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center, 4242 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill. Dr.Maria Scunziano-Singh will discuss naturopathic medical care, nutritional counseling, IV nutrition on chelation, and pure BioEnergy healing. For information and to register, call 352600-4242, or visit WellComeOMCenter.com.
DEMENTIA EDUCATION
Beach House and Life Church will host Teepa Snow, a leading advocate and educator for anyone living with dementia or other forms of brain change, on Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Beach House Assisted Living & Memory Care, 30070 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel. Snow is an occupational therapist with more than 40 years of varied clinical and academic experience, medical research, and first-handing caregiving experiences. Her company, Positive Approach to Care
2021 Physician of the Year St. Joseph’s Hospital-North in Lutz has named Dr. Lindell Busciglio its 2021 Physician of the Year. Dr. Busciglio is board certified in internal medicine (infectious disease). She was nominated by the hospital’s Infection Prevention Department for her support and knowledge during the COVID pandemic. “She has been our pillar of support and wealth of knowledge for the Infection Prevention Department, nursing, physicians, patients and family members,” the Infection Prevention Department wrote in Dr. Busciglio's nomination documents, according to a news release. "During her rounds on nursing units, she has taken her time to answer questions from nursing teams, to help them have a better understanding of the disease.” In addition, according to the Infection Prevention Department, Dr. Busciglio is an expert source on COVID testing, vaccinations and administering vaccinations. She was available around the clock by phone. Dr. Busciglio also spent countless (PAC), was founded in 2006 and now collaborates to improve dementia care in more than 30 countries. For information on this day of education and training on dementia, call 813-508-6677. For more about Snow, visit TeepaSnow.com.
SAVE THE DATE, FOR HOSPICE
The 10th annual Hittin’ the Road for Hospice, a motorcycle poker run to raise money for Gulfside Hospice, is scheduled for Feb. 19. Registration is open now for groups and
COURTESY OF ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL-NORTH
Dr. Lindell Busciglio
hours with patients and families, with words of encouragement, comfort and sometimes sympathy. "I have thought that St. Joe's North has played an excellent role during the pandemic," Dr. Busciglio said, in the release. "It's been a difficult time for all of us.The nursing staff, support staff and Infection Prevention has done a tremendous job during a time we've never faced before. It is a pleasure for me to be here." single riders. Several motocycle clubs are gearing up to raise funds and compete for the Wings & Wheels Award, given to the top fundraising team at the event. The run will start at the Harley-Davidson New Port Richey and end at the Moose Lodge in Zephyrhills. All event proceeds will benefit Gulfside Hospice, and provide hospice care and resources for patients and families in Pasco County. For information and to register, visit HittinTheRoadForHospice.org.
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Elaine Pittman recognized
The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club honored its longtime member Elaine Pittman as Clubwoman of the Year, for her outstanding service within the club and the community. Pittman is well-known locally as ‘The Plant Lady,’ and is always behind her plant booth at the club’s flea markets and other events. Pittman propagates her plants and sells them to fundraise for her favorite charity, Christian Social Services (CSS) in Land O’ Lakes. Over the years, she has donated thousands of dollars to help support the underserved homeless community through CSS. Pittman, left, accepts a commemorative plaque from past president Annette Bellingar.
New training for utility workers
program over the coming year, the release adds. The new program also will have internships, allowing students to receive paid on-the-job training at municipal or other employers that are aligned with the certification program. There are no existing programs in Hillsborough County offering training for these particular skillsets, according to the release. The program will teach skills necessary to do work in these fields: • Geographic Information Systems • Traffic control concepts and application • Potable water treatment, systems, and operations • Wastewater collection, treatment, systems, and components • Hazardous materials handling, packaging, transportation, and storage • OSHA safety standards • Commercial Driver’s License and/or heavy equipment certification The program is expected to cost about $500,000 in its first year of development.
The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report The Hillsborough County Commission has endorsed a plan to design a new training program aimed to give workers the skills they need to apply to construct, maintain and operate critical infrastructure, according to a Hillsborough County news release. The program is needed to meet the demand for utility workers, as the industrial and technical skills needed for workers in the public works field becomes more specialized, the release says. Hillsborough’s Economic Development department will work with Hillsborough Community College, Hillsborough County Public Schools, and partners in the private sector to create a pilot rollout of the training
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Seeking freelance writers & photographers
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Are you an experienced writer or photographer who is looking for an opportunity to pick up some periodic writing or photography work? The Laker/Lutz News is seeking capable writers and photographers who can help us tell the story of the communities in our coverage area. The work for photographers will include event coverage and spot news. For writers, the assignments will include feature stories, meeting coverage and occasional spot news. We also are open to pitches by writers and photographers for potential feature stories and photo packages. We expect to start assigning work this month. If you are interested, send your resume, as well as five to eight samples of your previously published work. Also, please indicate when (days/nights/weekends) you would be available to pick up assignments.
The Laker/Lutz News is seeking a staff writer whose primary roles will be sports, recreation and local government reporting, but who also will be picking up assignments for general news and feature stories. Applicants should have a firm command of AP style, should adhere to high reporting standards and should be a versatile writer — with the ability to create compelling feature stories and straight news reports. The successful candidate will be able to juggle several assignments simultaneously. The ability to meet deadline is essential. The role also requires photography skills and experience in securing visuals to accompany stories. The applicant also needs to be capable of creating breakout boxes containing additional information to enhance reports. Digital and video skills are a plus. Candidates must have a minimum of three years of experience. Those interested should send their resume, as well as five to eight samples of their work to: bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
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Get the word out in The Laker/Lutz News!
Call 813-909-2800
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Fictitious name notice? Job to post? Obituary? Room for rent? Garage or yard sale?
MKT-P0253
Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds: B438, B439 (GA: B439B).
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Equal Housing Opportunity.
Send your resume and portfolio to:
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
Lost wedding ring while shopping. Location: In the parking lot of Total Wine and More in Wesley Chapel, Florida. If found please contact Dawn at 813-431-8697 or you can return it to the nearest police station.
New and Used homes available in Arbor Oaks, a 55+ community located in beautiful Zephyrhills. Limited Time 50% lot rent for 1 year with new home purchase Newby Realty 941-479-2849
- Must be located in our market (Pasco/North Hillsborough counties) - Must have reliable transportation - Must be able to lift 10 pounds, including newspaper bundles -
Twilliamson@lakerlutznews.com
LOST WEDDING RING
MANUFACTURED HOMES
Minimum 1 year of experience Starting Pay $14/hr (depends on experience), Plus Benefits
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REWARD $$$
• Administrative Work • Lead Generation • Cold Calling • Scheduling Appointments • Customer Service • Networking
Contact Ken at ken@floridacirc.com or 813-421-2472
ANNOUNCEMENTS
$$$
FULL TIME ADVERTISING SALES ASSISTANT
Earn extra cash delivering The Laker once a week. Home delivery routes available now in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel area.
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
813-817-3878
The LAKER/Lutz NEWS is hiring!
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Furniture, Patio Set, Civil War & WWII History Books & Prints, Dishes, Décor, Ladder, birdbath & More! 3428 Bohannon Rd., Zephyrhills, 33541
Newspaper Carriers/Independent Contractors Wanted!
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FRI & SAT, JAN 7 & 8 9AM – 2PM
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
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MOVING SALE
GENERAL EMPLOYMENT
HughesNet - Finally, super-fast internet no matter where you live. 25 Mbps just $59.99/mo! Unlimited Data is Here. Stream Video. Bundle TV & Internet. Free Installation. Call 866-499-0141 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISH TV $64.99 for 190 channels + $14.95 high speed internet. Free installation, smart HD DVR included, free voice remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo expires 1/21/22. 1833-872-2545 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stop worrying! SilverBills eliminates the stress & hassle of bill pmts. Household bills guaranteed to be paid on time as long as appropriate funds are available. No computer necessary. Free trial/custom quote 1-855-703-0555
- FEATURED AD THIS WEEK -
ATTENTION
Oxygen Therapy Users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds.
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"Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author`s guide 833719-3029 or visit dorranceinfo.com/acp"
FREE INFO KIT
877-929-9587
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Paying top cash for men's sportwatches! Rolex, Breitling, Omega, Patek Philippe, Heuer, Daytona, GMT, Submariner and Speedmaster. Call 833-603-3236 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wants to purchase minerals and other oil and gas interests. Send details to P.O. Box 13557 Denver, CO 80201 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Attention oxygen therapy users! Inogen One G4 is capable of full 24/7 oxygen delivery. Only 2.8 pounds. Free info kit. 877-929-9587
Formerly the NANI and CADNET Networks
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www.LakerLutzNews.com
January 5, 2022
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“We’re excited to provide the Pasco community multiple services all under one roof.” It’s not just an ID badge. It’s a badge of honor. Because of the team members who wear that badge, you’ll find a unique combination of clinical excellence and compassion at the BayCare HealthHub™—Pasco County’s newest health care destination. Services include pediatric and adult primary care, imaging and urgent care, and BayCare Laboratories close by for all your lab needs. Getting the care you deserve is now more convenient for you and your family.
Judy R.
HealthH ub Direc tor
NOW OPEN BayCare HealthHub 18600 Fernview St., Land O’ Lakes Located at the intersection of State Road 54 and Sunlake Boulevard
Learn more: BayCareHealthHubLandOLakes.org
21-1871791-1121
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January 5, 2022
www.LakerLutzNews.com