Lutz News-Lutz/Odessa-April 29, 2020

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Election supervisors seek flexibility

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The Florida Supervisors of Elections — an organization representing all 67 county election supervisors across the state — is seeking greater flexibility regarding how elections are conducted during the remainder of the 2020 election cycle. The organization has asked that Gov. Ron DeSantis issue an executive order granting more flexibility, in light of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The request asks that the executive

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order modify current Florida Elections Code to allow for more flexibility in meeting the challenges of staffing the polls, securing polling locations, and providing additional voting methods, according to Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley. The goal is to lessen the impact to in-person voting due to worker shortages and fewer polling locations, Corley said. To that end, supervisors of elections across the state are asking that they be allowed to designate additional early voting sites, extend the early voting period to 22 days prior to and up until 7 p.m. on election

day, and have the flexibility of consolidating polling places and/or relocating them to early voting sites. Now, early voting across the state ranges between eight and 14 days, Corley said. The additional flexibility being requested is important, Corley said. “Going into the Presidential Preference Primary, back on March 17, we had some immense challenges,” he said.“We had several hundred poll workers that respectfully bowed out, because of concerns about their See ELECTION, page 11A

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Fifty-year-old Derick Sutton, Lutz, gets ready to take a 50-mile trek on the Suncoast Parkway Trail. Sutton has been biking the trail on Saturdays for the past 15 years.

Cyclist Bob Depue, age 75, cruises through the Wilderness subdivision, in Land O’ Lakes, on a recent warm, sunny Sunday afternoon. Depue typically treks 10 miles to 15 miles each day.

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By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

It’s no secret that impacts from the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic pose significant challenges. “What happened to normal? Normal is just gone, right? It’s just gone,” said Paula O’Neil, former clerk and comptroller for Pasco County, and now a private business consultant. O’Neil’s remarks came during a Zoom meeting of WOW TOO, a women’s networking group that is part of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce. She reminded participants about Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs — identified as physiological, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. Before COVID-19, the women typically were acting at the self-actualization level of the hierarchy, O’Neil said. “We’re good problem-solvers, we care about people.We care about our community. We look at the facts and we can make good decisions. “Now, all of a sudden — the world has turned around,” she said. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” she said. “With COVID-19, there’s a lot of fear of getting the disease.There’s a lot of fear with

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

our economy. “The biggest problem we have, I think, is uncertainty. Not knowing what’s next. “The uncertainty — we’ve got to embrace it and see how we can help other people. Because really, you heal yourself by

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID19) pandemic may affect the progress of some Pasco County initiatives, but at least one is moving forward as scheduled — a $128 million expansion of the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center, off U.S. 41 at 20101 Central Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Project design is slated to begin sometime in May, with construction slated to begin in December 2021 and continue through fiscal year 2023 — generally matching original timeline projections, county officials say. A finalized agreement with design firm HOK and construction management firm Moss & Associates is being reviewed by the county attorney’s office, and should be complete by the end of April or early May. “We’re on track with where we hope to

See POSITIVE, page 11A

See JAIL, page 11A

FILE

Paula O’Neil offered words of support and encouragement in a Zoom virtual meeting of WOW TOO, a women’s networking group that is part of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.


$2 million in grants aim to help Pasco businesses By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

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The Pasco Economic Development Council Inc. (Pasco EDC), received more than 1,400 applications, before cutting applications off, for a grant program aimed at providing $2 million in assistance to small businesses. Pasco EDC partnered with Pasco County to provide this relief grant program for small businesses affected by coronavirus disease2019 (COVID-19). Penny for Pasco revenues will be used to provide the relief. Besides creating a global medical crisis, COVID-19 has caused an economic meltdown, as businesses have been shuttered to prevent potential spread of the deadly virus. Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco EDC, outlined the emergency business program during an April 21 virtual Pasco County Commission meeting. Cronin explained the idea was to provide up to $5,000 grants to eligible small businesses — based on a first-come, first-served basis. If every business received $5,000, that would provide grants for 400 businesses, Cronin said. Commissioner Jack Mariano praised the grant program. “To actually find out a way to help the small businesses, especially in this tough time, I think is phenomenal,” he said.

But, Mariano asked if smaller grants could be given. Some small businesses might not need the entire $5,000, and more could be helped if they don’t. Cronin responded:“You do need to make sure that it’s able to make an impact. At $5,000, you can actually cover a rent payment or a mortgage payment, or at least something the landlord would be willing to take. Right now, we’ve identified there is $2 million to use for this fund.” Commission Chairman Mike Moore agreed with Cronin that the grant should be large enough to make an impact. Commissioner Ron Oakley observed: “Those 400 small businesses are going to go in a hurry, I think.” Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said:“I’m very grateful for this effort.” The board approved the emergency grant program on April 21 and, by 6 p.m., on April 22 the Pasco EDC stopped accepting applications. The applications are being vetted and applicants will be informed of their status soon, according to a Pasco EDC news release. Businesses must meet a number of requirements and cannot have more than 25 employees. The review committee includes bankers and county staff. No county commissioners are part of the committee, Moore noted, during the board discussion of the grant program.

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99-year-old says celebration was her ‘best party’ ever By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The threat of the spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) killed Debbie Storts’ original plans for celebrating her mom’s 99-year-old birthday. “Family was supposed to fly down and we were going to go to the Rusty Pelican for a lunch on April 4. So, that was canceled,” Debbie said. “I was also going to do a luncheon prior to that for her friends and my friends. So, we scratched that, as well,” she added. Instead of coming to a luncheon, neighbors and friends walked up — or rode by in cars or on bicycles to wish Evelyn “Ev” Furman a wonderful day. The party, in the Twin Lakes subdivision of Land O’ Lakes, was held on April 9, Ev’s actual birthday. It lasted from 10 a.m. until noon. There also were people from North Pointe Church in Lutz, and Hand and Foot card-playing friends from the Land O’ Lakes Recreational Complex in Land O’ Lakes. Some of Debbie’s friends from Pine View Middle were there, too. The middle school was Debbie’s last stop before retiring from a 26-year teaching career in Pasco County Schools. The party attenders kept an appropriate distance — at least 6 feet away — from Ev. Debbie served up cookies and candy, from a 6-foot-long tray. When people brought presents, Debbie had them leave them at the end of the driveway. “I let them sit there,” Debbie said, and then after retrieving them, she wiped them down. “She did quite well. She got a lot of stuff,” Debbie said. Ev had a ball. Her first present, she said,“was a beautiful orchid.” She received about 75 cards, but not all of them came from the party. “I look through them, and it’s just wonderful to think — I’m 99 and holding,” Ev said. “I’ve had a good life,” said the woman, who taught fourth grade for 31 ½ years and

Lots of folks showed up to help Evelyn ‘Ev’ Furman celebrate her 99th birthday.

COURTESY OF DEBBIE STORTS

The original birthday plans for Evelyn ‘Ev’ Furman’s 99th birthday had to be canceled, so her daughter, Debbie Storts, came up with a Plan B to mark the day.

Decorated cars drove by to wish Evelyn ‘Ev’ Furman a happy 99th birthday.

Debbie Storts delivers goodies to well-wishers who attended her mom’s birthday drive-by and walk-by party. Ev Furman turned 99 this year.

Diane Breinig, left, and her mom, Anna Martindale, came ready with their party horns to help make the day fun.

loved doing that. One highlight from those years was a friendship that began during her very first year of teaching, with a student named Pat Owen, who kept in touch. “I still hear from her. In fact, her birthday is this Friday, so I’ll be calling her,” Ev said. Over the years, Eve said she’s enjoyed traveling and has been to such places as

Georgia; her daughter, Darlene Conville, from Michigan; and her grandson, Derrick Storts, from Winter Park, couldn’t be there — the birthday girl said she still had a grand time. Next year, when Ev turns 100, the party will be in a big ballroom, Debbie said. But, topping this year’s celebration might be a challenge. “It was the best party I ever had,” Ev said.

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Europe,Alaska and the Panama Canal. She said she’s never experienced anything like the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s very sad.To think, people are out of work and they don’t have money for the food.” But, Debbie didn’t let the pandemic ruin her mom’s birthday. Even though Ev’s son, Gary Furman, from

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What’s Happening

Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge

NOTE TO READERS: Due to the continuing developments regarding coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) —the cancellations of events, and shuttering of schools and businesses — The Laker/Lutz News continues to compile a list of websites that are offering free online activities, for kids and adults, as well as screen-free activities to encourage creativity. — Compiled by Mary Rathman

ANIMALS!

journal; grounding yourself through meditation; thanking a grocery store worker, health care provider or delivery driver; finding safe ways to volunteer; and staying updated on the news

• Dublin Zoo: DublinZoo.ie/animals/ animal-webcams • International Wolf Centre:Wolf.org/ wolf-cams2/ • Kansas City Zoo: KansasCityZoo.org/animals (click on Animals link for live cams) • Meet a tiger:Type in your phone’s Google browser the word ‘tiger,’ and scroll down to view in 3D. • National Aquarium:Aqua.org/Experience/live • National Zoo,Washington D.C.: NationalZoo.si.edu/webcams • Yellowstone National Park: NPS.gov/yell/index.htm

HOW-TOS

Walmart is offering online craft projects, DIYs, creative how-tos, and tips for all things arts n’ craftsy. Categories include family and living; favorite reads; health and wellness; recipes and entertaining; style; technology; crafting tips; holidays; and, general ideas. Visit tinyurl.com/ybdzbw62.

IDEAS/APPS

Premier League Stars is offering videos and activities to support math, literacy, PE and more online at PLprimarystars.com.There are family challenges, too. Sign up for the newsletter to receive updates on new home learning resources and challenges.

COLORING PAGES

Lovepop Cards is offering a dozen free coloring pages, to print. For designs of butterflies, bunnies, sea animals and more, visit LovepopCards.com/blogs/ pop-up-cards/coloring-pages.

MUSEUMS AROUND THE WORLD

EXPLORE.ORG

Explore is a multimedia organization that documents leaders around the world who have devoted their lives to extraordinary causes. Its growing library consists of more than 250 original films and 30,000 photographs from around the world. The website features a wide range of topics— from animal rights, health and human services, and poverty to the environment, education, and spirituality. Delivered in short, digestible bites, Explore films appeal to viewers of all ages, from children learning about other cultures for the first time to adults looking for a fresh perspective on the world around them. More than 105 live-stream cams are available, including African wildlife, bears, hummingbirds, gorillas, the northern lights, pandas, a birder’s paradise (bald eagles, falcons, osprey), bats, ocean life (seals, whales, otters, shark), pandas, and more.

HEALTHY HABITS

Experience Life is helping people to navigate and to build resiliency during the pandemic, starting with healthy habits. Visit ExperienceLife.com to find 31 ways to embrace healthy habits, while social distancing.

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY

Teamwork pays off to keep county ‘beautiful’ Volunteers collected 14,500 pounds of trash throughout Pasco County during the 2020 Great American Cleanup. On foot and by kayak, 514 volunteers covered 35 locations, including Wesley Chapel, Lacoochee, Hudson, New Port Richey, Port Richey, and the Anclote Gulf Park in Holiday. Keep Pasco Beautiful hosts the Great American Cleanup with corporate funding assistance, and in collaboration with Pasco County Public Work; Pasco County Solid Waste; Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources; and Pasco County Environmental Compliance. And remember, in this time of the COVID-19 pandemic, please appropriately throw away any trash you have, including masks and gloves. A few of the volunteers were, from left: Lewis Queensberry, Brett Queensberry, Kathy Queensberry and Loucas Cronin.

Suggestions can be found for: • Preparing new recipes, and trying your hand at grain-free baking • Taking your workout outside, taking an exercise class online, and taking a neighborhood stroll • Getting a good night’s sleep, and taking a break to recover from stress

• Decluttering the closet, giving your home an energy audit, and cleaning out the refrigerator • Growing your own herbs/seeds, planning a low-mosquito garden, making a bee bath, feeding the birds, and watching live animal cams • Starting a new hobby, reading a book (or 10), and touring museums online • Staying in touch; easing anxiety by starting a

• British Museum, London: BritishMuseum.withgoogle.com/ • Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia: HermitageMuseum.org • Met Museum, New York: MetMuseum.org/art/online-features/ met-360-project • National Gallery of Arts,Washington D.C.: NGA.gov/ • National Gallery, London: NationalGallery.org.uk/visiting/virtual-tours • Palestine Museum: PalMuseum.org/exhibitions/virtual-exhibitions • Picasso Museum, Barcelona: Museupicasso.bcn.cat/en • Royal Academy of Arts, London: Britishart.yale.edu/ (kids can also download and color art collection images) • The Museum of Flight: MuseumOfFlight.org/Explore-TheMuseum/Virtual-Museum-Online • Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy: Uffizi.it/gli-uffizi • Women’s History Museum,Virginia: WomensHistory.org/womens-history/ online-exhibits Don’t Forget: All the What’s Happening online and screen-free suggestions from past weeks are on our website, too: LakerLutzNews.com.

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ICI Homes Opens New Wesley Chapel Models With 2.75% Financing

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ometimes the most difficult of times, such as the challenges presented by COVID-19, also create unexpected opportunities. This is true for buyers of ICI Homes in Pasco and Hillsborough counties. This premium builder has 12 inventory homes available now or in the next few months, including four cottage-style homes in its first Wesley Chapel neighborhood, Persimmon Park. Not only does ICI Homes have a larger than usual inventory of unique one- and two-story homes, it is also selling homes in the high $200s for the first time in Tampa Bay. “We are known as a premier, semi-custom builder, and typically build homes from the $400s to over $1 million. So to come into Wesley Chapel with moderately priced floor plans is very exciting for us, and more importantly for our customers who want our quality and craftsmanship in a smaller, more affordable home,” said Paula Spitler, Tampa sales manager for ICI Homes. Almost as important as the quality and pricing of its homes, ICI Homes also is offering an exceptionally low interest rate of just 2.75% on 30-year mortgages, when using the builder’s preferred lenders. “We call this our buy-down program, because a lower interest allows our buyers to increase their spending power, and more quickly build equity in their homes,” said Spitler. “There are only a limited number of these special loans being allocated across our 20-plus communities

The two-story Primrose model is light and bright with lots of windows and exemplifies Florida’s casual lifestyle.

in Florida, so please don’t wait. It’s first-come, first-served, and once these loans are gone, they’re gone,” said Spitler. Many families are drawn to Persimmon Park because of its desirable Wesley Chapel location, and also because its students are zoned to the area’s highest rated schools — Wiregrass Elementary, Dr. John Long Middle and Wiregrass Ranch High. “One of Persimmon Park’s biggest draws is the schools our students are zoned to attend,” said Spitler. “We have families moving from nearby subdivisions, such as Seven Oaks, that were recently rezoned to other schools. Many families want to keep their children enrolled in the schools they have traditionally attended or have been assigned to attend.” Persimmon Park is located within

the master-planned development of Wiregrass Ranch —located off Bruce B. Downs and Chancey Road, directly behind The Shops at Wiregrass and AdventHealth Wesley Chapel. Wiregrass Ranch is a 5,000-acre, walkable community with trails that lead to parks, schools, entertainment, recreation and top-notch medical facilities. Persimmon Park is Wiregrass Ranch’s newest new home community, with ICI Homes committed to building 97 homes in this unique subdivision. “Persimmon Park gives our residents immediate access to all that Wiregrass Ranch and Wesley Chapel have to offer,” said Spitler. “Plus, our amenities are everything a family wants without going overboard — a unique T-shaped pool and cabana, outdoor grilling, interconnecting

trails, and dog parks for small and large breeds.” ICI Homes is introducing its first neo-traditional homes in Persimmon Park, featuring open floor plans with front porches, and garages at the back of the home. The first phase has 40 homes on 40-foot home sites, and ICI is premiering five new floor plans with prices beginning at $292,900. “Light and bright with lots of windows,” is how Spitler describes these floor plans, having a cottage look and feel that are open, airy, and exemplifies Florida’s casual lifestyle. “These homes have been designed for people wanting to simplify their life, who want less square footage to clean and maintain, yet want all the upscale finishes and details offered by ICI Homes,” said Spitler. Two beautifully furnished model homes are available for tour at Persimmon Park. “Families love the rear-load design because it gives the home a very nice front elevation with no garage blocking the home’s curb appeal,” said Spitler. “Plus, rear garages make for easier access to the kitchen when it’s time to unload groceries, and also creates more backyard privacy with covered breezeways and summer kitchens.” Model homes are open daily for tour, with or without an appointment. Sales staff strictly follow COVID-19 safety protocols and always make sure families tour models by themselves, without other people in the model. Families also can tour the homes virtually, via video, at icihomes.com.

Imagination. Customization. Innnovation.

SHO OWCASE HOMES

ore Information call (813) 252-1108 8 For Mo or visit www.ICIHomes.com

Primrosse — 3568 Velve et Apple St St. 4 Bed / 3 Bath / 2 Car / 2,434 sq. ft.

Magnolia — 3560 Velvet Apple St St. 3 Bed / 2.5 Ba ath / 2 Car / 2,026 ft²

$ $441,631 ,63

$ 98,322 $3 ,

Lantan na — 3552 Velve et Apple St St. 3 Bed / 2 Bath / 2 Car / 1,793 sq. ft.

Jasmine — 35 544 Velvet Apple e St. St 3 Bed / 2 Bath / 2 Car / 1,552 sq. ft.

$382,609 9

$3 353,740

Ask u about s o curren ur incen t tive!

Prices and offerings are subject to change. See a Sales Associate for details. Interve est Construction of Tampa, LLC 2660 Cypress Ridge Blvd, Suite 104, Wesley y Chapel, FL 33544 / CBC# 126 62235

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM

April 29, 2020


Home is W Where The T Hea Heart art Is WHERE LAUGHTER IS SHARED, MEMORIES BEGIN AND HEARTSTRINGS ARE FOREVER JOINED TOGETHER. DISCO OV VER SMALL TOWN AMERICA AT AV AVALON PA PARK WESLEY CHAPEL,, WHERE YOUR FAMILLY Y WILL LIVE,, LEARN, WORK AND PLA AY Y.

… At Avaalon Park Wesley Chapel • Classic homes rich in design and skillfully crafted d parks, tree-lined streets and wide front porches • Neighborhood • Tr Traditional dow wntown with shops, restaurants and offfiices • Tr Trails connectiing neighborhoods to downtown • New homes frrom the low $200s to over $400s • Resort-style am menity centers with pools, wo workout areas, tot lots and splash pad • We Wesley Chapel schools, including on-site elementary school c school at community entrance • K-8 Pinecrest charter

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A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM


Beautiful inventory townhomes are now available at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Every home has a two-car garage, and all feature unique architectural elements, including front porches, sweeping kitchen islands, covered breezeways and grass courtyards.

Every Townhome Has A 2-Car Garage At Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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aintenance free townhomes with two-car garages in the rear with a private alley are now open for tour and purchase at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. “Our townhomes are beautifully designed with upscale custom finishes, and offer buyers a tremendous value for the Wesley Chapel area,” said Cheryl Gonzalez, sales representative for Avex Homes. “Plus, every home comes with a two-car garage — something you rarely find in townhomes that begin at $225,000.” Three floor plans are available, ranging from 1,608 square feet to 1,834 square feet, each with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Homes are solidly built with families in mind, and rich in architectural design with distinctive exteriors and open floor plans. Each home has a front porch, covered lanai or private breezeway that connects to the garage. “Buyers love our townhomes’ cozy feel and old-fashioned, traditional look,” said Gonzalez. “People always comment on how spacious they feel because of our open floor plans and standard 9-foot ceilings on both the first and second floors.” Homebuyers can upgrade their home’s finishes to their individual lifestyle and design preferences — from moving electrical outlets, to upgrading cabinets and flooring, to choosing colors that best show off their individual taste. The most popular upgrades are quartz countertops and luxury vinyl flooring. “Folks really appreciate that they can select the finishes they want, including flooring, cabinetry, countertops and lighting,” said Gonzalez. “Unlike most townhomes in this price range, our buyers can choose the colors and finishes that are best for them. These are not cookie-cutter homes.” Families also choose the townhome lifestyle because it offers carefree, maintenance-free living. “Our HOA covers all exterior painting and maintenance, including the roof, and all lawn and landscaping services,” said Gonzalez. “People are busy and love not having to worry about these chores.” The first five Avalon Park Wesley Chapel townhomes have recently been completed, and three are available now as inventory homes. A second building with six townhomes is underway, with completion and move-ins planned for the end of the year. Avex Homes and Beazer Homes are builders in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, a 1,650-acre master-planned community located on State Road 54, three miles east of I-75. In addi-

The kitchen in the Bellevue boasts premium white cabinets and a large kitchen island with quartz countertops.

3 Inventory Homes Cambridge: 1,608 sq. ft., with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Tile floors, two-tone expresso cabinets, private lanai, huge master suite. $233,144 (base price $224,990) Montgomery: 1,834 sq. ft., with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Front porch, flex room/den, large island kitchen, tile floors, grass courtyard. Two units available. $234,190 and $248,581 (base price $238,990) Bellevue: 1,820 sq. ft., with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, end unit, master on first floor. Premium white cabinets, large kitchen island with quartz countertop, luxury vinyl flooring, private breezeway/lanai, huge master suite. Large loft upstairs with 2 bedrooms, and bath with double vanities. (base price $243,990)

tion to its new townhomes, Avex Homes also builds single-family homes in the development’s two neighborhoods — Cypress Village and Hawthorne Village. “It is very rewarding to offer local residents affordable homes for firsttime homebuyers, as well as luxurious, move-up homes for families wanting a larger home in a community like ours that offers great schools and so much to do,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing for Avalon Park Group. Single-family homes in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel start in the mid$200s, and are built on a variety of

lot styles, including conservation, corner and pond view. Avex Homes currently is selling its model home the original Cypress Village, and has four inventory homes that will be ready this summer in its new Hawthorne Village. “There is still time to make your personal design and color selection on these inventory homes, if you move fast,” said Gonzalez. Already, 1,500 people call Avalon Park Wesley Chapel home, and over 800 homes have been sold since it opened in 2012. The community will continue to grow over the next several years and, at build out, will be home to 10,000 residents residing in 4,400 single and multifamily homes. Avex Homes is open daily for tour, with or without an appointment. Sales staff strictly follow COVID-19 safety protocols and always make sure families tour models by themselves, without other people in the model. For more information, stop by the model center at 5216 Autumn Ridge Drive, Wesley Chapel, 33545. To schedule an appointment, call Todd Simon at (407) 590-3501.

AMENITIES AND SCHOOLS

Families enjoy an array of amenities at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. This includes a recently opened second amenity center with a zero-entry pool, splash pad, spa and picnic area. Other amenities include the original swimming pool, tot lot, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with the community’s downtown. Nearing completion is a new

charter school at the community’ entrance, Pinecrest Academy Wesley Chapel, which will open for the 2020-2021 school year with 650 students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Pinecrest Wesley Chapel will offer a core curriculum of English/language arts, mathematics, social science, science and electives, such as performing and fine arts, and world languages. For more information, go to the website, PinecrestWesleyChapel.com.

DOWNTOWN CENTER

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel also will offer residents places to shop and work when its downtown center is completed. Infrastructure construction has begun on the first phase, which will include two office buildings, two mixed use retail/residential buildings and a community park. “We will be building beautiful, multi-story buildings with commercial space designed for businesses our residents want close to home — restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, bars and entertainment, hair and nail salons, as well as activities like dance, gymnastic and karate studios,” said Lerret. In addition to shops and markets, the community’s downtown area will have over 500,000 square feet of commercial space. “We are not just developers— we are building a brand new town with family events all year-long,” said Lerret. “We’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future.”

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM

April 29, 2020


New Daikin Fit HVAC System Offers Maximum Comfort

Cornerstone Pros is the area’s exclusive Daikin dealer

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ith so many people working from home due to COVID-19, and the hot summer months quickly approaching, the need for a dependable and efficient air conditioning system has never been more important. “We strongly recommend that you call now for your spring service and maintenance, and to get information and quotes if you’re considering replacing an older system,” said Gary Beurmann, air conditioning manager at Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “If you call now, we can schedule an appointment and get you prepared for the hottest months of the year.” The trade services provided by Cornerstone Pros — air conditioning, plumbing and electrical — are all essential services that remain open during the Stay At Home order from Gov. Ron DeSantis. “Our crews are working, and we’ve adopted COVID-19 safety protocols to protect customers and employees,” said Dana Spears, president of Cornerstone Pros. “Because our em-

Elevated COVID-19 Safety Procedures

DAIKIN FIT UNIQUE ADVANTAGES

“Because our employees wear extra safety gear, and most of our work is performed outside or in remote areas of a home, we greatly limit exposure for everyone.” —Dana Spears, Cornerstone president

ployees wear extra safety gear, and most of our work is performed outside or in remote areas of a home, we greatly limit exposure for everyone.” With afternoon temperatures already in the 90s, A/C services are very much in demand right now. “Many families are upgrading their A/C system, either because their existing unit is unreliable and is costing too much to maintain, or their unit is inefficient and uses an in-

creasing amount of energy that results in hundreds of dollars in utility bills. Plus, we have great financing terms and rebates to offer from Daikin and utility companies,” said Spears. “Your air conditioning system is an appliance, just like your refrigerator, and does not last forever,” said Beurmann. “But, before we recommend that an A/C system be replaced, my team of over 20 techni-

1. HOME FEELS COOLER

quiet, you can be standing right next to it and wonder if the unit is even running — it’s that quiet,” said Beurmann.

Cornerstone is an Elite Daikin Fit dealer that offers local homeowners one of the best A/C systems ever made. Available only since February, the Daikin Fit features exceptionally cool comfort, a small footprint and high Gary Beurmann energy efficiency ratings. Gary Beurmann, A/C service manager at Cornerstone Pros, explains the many advantages of a Daikin Fit system.

Your home will feel cooler and more comfortable because the system is highly effective at maintaining desired humidity levels because of its invertor/smart system technology.

2. HALF THE SIZE

The outdoor unit is half the size of a traditional condenser, which makes it perfect for pool and patios areas, allowing more space for outdoor living. It is also great for homes with narrow lot lines.

3. EXCEPTIONALLY QUIET

It is so quiet that it can be installed outside a bedroom window and not be heard inside. “It is so

4. ENERGY EFFICIENT

The Daikin Fit has an energy efficiency rating of 16 SEER and above, which means it consumes less energy to cool your home.

5. AFFORDABILITY

Until now, A/C systems with inverter technology were very costly. Pricing on the Daikin Fit allows homeowners to get the best invertor technology on the market at a price comparable to lower competitor two-stage systems.

cians and installers give customers several options to consider, with realistic costs and expectations.” Beurmann explains that sometimes replacement is the best solution if an A/C is out of warranty, and the cost to repair it is better spent on a new system. “In addition, an energy-efficient new unit typically saves a family hundreds of dollars a year in lower utility costs.” Beurmann adds that his team is all paid hourly, so customers never have a 100% commission tech pressuring for sales of new or upgraded A/C systems. “Our only motive is to do what is best for our customers,” he says. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night. For more information, visit their website at CornerstonePros.com.

6. TECH CONVENIENCES

The Daikin Fit has all the bells and whistles – including Wi-Fi connectivity and thermostat controls that are accessible from your phone, pad and laptop. Daikin's super-intelligent, user-friendly system controllers allow you to orchestrate and monitor mode, temperature, time, airflow volume and more across your entire system, at the touch of button.

7. 12-YEAR FACTORY WARRANTY

The Daikin Fit is covered by one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 12-year parts and labor warranty included in the price of the unit.

Advantage Real Estate Services

Imagine the value and enjoyment a new kitcchhen will bring to your home….

is a full service real estate company representing both buyers and sellers of residential and commercial property primarily in Pasco, Hernando and Hillsborough counties. Inventory is EXTREMELY low. If you are thinking about selling your home, please contact us for a free market analysis.

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4625 Victoria road, Land o Lakes, FL 34639 Sought after Lake Padgett Estates East 4 Bedroom/2.5 Bath; 2379 sf waterfront home! Features include a fully accessible master suite with roll-in shower and bathroom, 2 walk in closets PLUS an 11'x14' dressing room/office. There are three additional bedrooms. Kitchen features solid wood cabinets and large WALK IN pantry! This home needs updating and TLC but the possibilities are endless for a stellar home! NO CDD and low HOA. Priced at $290,000 Contact: Linda Ruhlig Direct: 813-494-5433 Email: lindaruhlig4@gmail.com

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Why Mortgage Rates Have Been On A Roller Coaster By Gilbert Bennett My Easy Mortgage, LLC Licensed Mortgage Loan Originator Certified Military Loan Specialist

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s a mortgage company, we receive a lot of inquiries regarding mortgage rates, refinancing and, most recently, “about that 0% mortgage the FED is offering.” Sadly, there is no 0% mortgage, and the FED doesn’t set mortgage rates. But, people should still inquire as to whether they have an opportunity for savings. What has happened over the last 45 days is a literal roller coaster in both mortgage rates and mortgage qualification requirements. What caused this see-saw? Earlier this year financial markets and investors started to get concerned about the global impact of COVID-19. This caused investors to move to “safer” investments, such as U.S. Treasuries and MortgageBacked Securities (MBS). The resulting demand for MBS created a drop in mortgage rates to “the lowest level in its nearly 50-year history,” according to Freddie Mac’s chief economist. The seven days between Feb. 26 and Mar. 4 were the busiest days in the business for just about every mortgage professional I know. And, the weeks following the resulting massive spike in applications also saw a huge spike in mortgage rates. In some cases, mortgage rates changed up to 2% in a single day for consumers! While the causes are complicated, the two major reasons why we saw this volatility was because lenders were unprepared for the huge spike in loan volume, and consequently had to increase rates to SLOW DOWN applications, so they could catch up. The underlying MBS was changing rapidly, and there was a glut of product being offered, which lowered the value of the individual

offerings (supply and demand). A number of lenders stopped accepting refinance applications altogether, as they focused on a more sustainable “purchase money mortgage” business model. The concerns related to COVID-19 expanded as businesses started to close down and workers were laid off due to government mandates related to social distancing. Investors had new concerns as they worried about how mortgage payments would be made when homeowners didn’t have jobs. Financial markets in the U.S. started to crash, and so the Federal Reserve Bank (FED) jumped in with an influx of liquidity and a couple of reductions to the federal funds rate. A second wave of refinance inquiries hit as borrowers called their loan officers again about taking advantage of this 0% FED rate being offered.

Service Lik e N o O t h e r , dedicated to your

It was left to loan offices to explain that the federal funds rate is the rate at which the FED lends short-term funds to banks. Mortgage rates were actually still on the rise after those announcements, because with so many loans being refinanced, the value of servicing rights that lenders earn started to shrink drastically, and they realized they wouldn’t hit their break-even point on an increasing percentage of their holdings. The mortgage market, as a whole, has seen a number of changes due to the impacts of the coronavirus. There has been a major tightening of requirements as secondary markets have dried up, or set significantly more restrictive requirements lending requirements. This tightening caused many wellestablished lenders to stop accepting new loan applications, some other to cancel loans that were in process

prior to funding them, and others to close their doors entirely. The impact was, and is wide-reaching, including some Florida-based banks and credit unions. While the impacts of COVID-19 are still creating change in the mortgage industry, there is an opportunity for borrowers who can meet updated requirements like multiple checks to verify employment and requiring clients to certify that their income/earnings have not been impacted. Borrowers with lower credit scores also have more requirements placed on them, as lenders are adding guideline requirements to government-insured loans (FHA, VA and USDA). In 2019, there were significant reductions to the cost of mortgage insurance, so if your loan still has mortgage insurance and your rate is in the high 3% to 4%, you might still save significantly by refinancing your mortgage. Mortgage rates are stabilizing, and while not as low as they were back in late February, there is a major opportunity for individuals to save, including some ridiculously low mortgage rates on 15-year loans. These are the kind of rates that may not be available again. So, if you are interested in a new or refinanced mortgage, reach out to a mortgage broker who will shop the markets for you. Generally, you’ll find that an experienced mortgage broker has more options available to you than your local bank, because of their independence and desire to ensure you get the best mortgage for your situation.

Cal l Today ion t ti for a Free Consulta Gilbert Bennett Mor tgage Loan Orriginator

(813) 513-9846 Gilbert@MyEasyMortgage.com myeasymor tgage.com/team/gilber t-bennett

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homeownership dream Gilber t Bennett has ovveer a decade of Real Esttatee Experience, as a homeowner wn r,, landlord, rd prro opeer ty manager and lenderr.. He specializes in helpin ng Veterans understand and utilize their V Ve VA A ŞūƑ ƥƥij ijîijĚ ċĚŠĚǶƥƥƙƙɍ O OĚĚ îƎ ƎƎ ƎƑƑū ūîČČĺ ĺĚƙ ŕŕū ūîŠ situations creativ re veely and as a broker roker,, has a wide assor tment tm of lenders to ensure ree he can ǶŠ Ƕ Šē ƥƥĺ ĺĚ ċĚƙƥ ƎƑƑū ūē ēƭ ƭČƥ IJIJū ūƑ ĚîČČĺ ĺ ĿĿŠ Šē ēĿĿDŽĿē DŽĿĿē ēƭ ƭîŕ ČŕĿ ČŕŕĿĿĚĚŠ Šƥɍ

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All loans funded through wh holesale relationships. My Easy Mortgage, LL LC is a mortgage brokerr.. Interest rates and otther program specifics could change at any time and are subject to your ability to qualify for this progrram. There are no guarantees that you will qualify for this program. 19028 Geraci Road, Lutz, FL 33458| MyEasyMortgage.com | (813) 505-7830 CO NMLS #1341274 | NM MLS #336024 | Find us on the NMLS at nm mlsconsumeraccess.org

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April 29, 2020


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To help those dealing with grief, Gulfside Hospice is offering a solution that allows for proper social distancing — virtual support groups. These video conferencing groups are currently replacing the organization’s weekly in-person groups, and are open to the community to participate. “We want to make sure people know that even though they are at home, they don’t have to go through their grief alone,” said Charlie Lowry, director of caregiver support services at Gulfside, in a news release. In addition to participating in the virtual support groups, Lowry also recommends keeping up with regular phone calls to close family and friends, writing regularly about your thoughts and emotions in a journal, practicing self-care, and going through normal daily routines, like checking the mail, making the bed, and washing the dishes. For information about the virtual support groups, call Gulfside’s bereavement depart-

While you have the time…

Now’s the time to re-evaluate your policy!

Premier Community HealthCare (Premier) has been named the recipient of a $1.4 million award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to combat COVID-19. The funding stems from the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act, and is part of the $1.3 billion awarding of funds by HHS through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to nearly 1,400 health centers nationwide. The $1.4 million award will be put to immediate use, as Premier responds to emerging and evolving local needs, while continuing to deliver high-quality primary health care services to patients. Specifically, it will support the ability to detect, prevent, diagnose and treat patients impacted by the virus, while also providing enhanced preparedness and response workflows. Community health centers, like Premier, are on the front lines combating COVID-19 and providing essential care to those in need. These centers serve the nation’s most vulnerable individuals and families, including people experiencing homelessness, agricultural workers, residents of public housing, and veterans. For information about Premier and its mission, visit PremierHC.org.

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Moffitt gets a boost from ‘friends’

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Breast Friends Forever hosted ‘Pink Heals Hits the Links,’ a golfing fundraiser, at The Groves Golf and Country Club. With the support of sponsors and the community, $23,000 was raised for Moffitt Cancer Center. The funds were earmarked for breast cancer treatment and research. The event also included a putting contest, raffle drawings, an auction and entertainment. Breast Friends Forever, from left: Debbie Wright, Diane Wiley, Judi Miller, Pam Gerbig, Hilda Holt and Debra Ruyle.

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Brian Corley said county supervisor of elections across the state are asking Gov. Ron DeSantis to grant more flexibility in how elections are conducted during the remainder of the 2020 election cycle.

ciation of supervisors of elections, basically saying to the governor — ‘We need some flexibility.’” “I’ve had people say,‘Why don’t we just do all mail ballots?’ “I’m not opposed to that. I think that would be a great solution, however you can’t flip a switch and make that happen. It takes about a year,” Corley said.

POSITIVE, from page 1A

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY

The Land O’ Lakes Detention Center will undergo a $128 million expansion beginning in 2021.

JAIL, from page 1A be,” Pasco County facilities management director Andrew Baxter said, in an interview with The Laker/Lutz News. The expansion will add 1,000 new beds plus major upgrades to the jail’s central services, including medical, laundry, kitchen, intake and administrative facilities to meet a larger capacity. The project is funded through general obligation bonds that Pasco voters approved in November 2018. When all is said and done, the expansion could total “somewhere in the neighborhood” of 200,000 square feet, Baxter said. The jail facility presently measures 352,700 square feet and houses 1,432 beds. But, it’s been operating over capacity, as temporary housing brings the maximum population to about 1,900 inmates. Baxter noted renovations to central services will be built to withstand an inmate population of well over 3,000 — which a facilities master plan indicated may happen by year 2034, and when another bed space addition likely will be needed. In other words, once 2034 comes around, Baxter said the county won’t again need to expand the medical unit, kitchen and other essential services, just the housing space. The facilities management director observed, “It’s just building housing at that point (in 2034), which is a little bit easier task to undertake than trying to operate a jail when you’re disturbing all the central service activities.” The forthcoming upcoming expansion is expected to be a phased project, with new structures coming to the front and back of the jail, followed by interior renovations into the existing jail. Ensuring the jail remains fully functional through build out is “one of the challenges, and quite honestly, one of the really fun at-

tributes” of the multi-year project, Baxter said. “The jail is a no-fail facility, and we must keep it running 100% all the entire time while we’re doing the construction activities,” Baxter said. Repurposing some areas as construction goes along is a possibility. For instance, once a “correctly-sized” kitchen comes along, the old kitchen space may then be transformed into a medical facility, Baxter said. But, those are just some ideas at this point. The detention center was built in 1991. Since then, there have been multiple expansions — including a 6,700-square-foot minimum security annex in 1999, then a 96,000-square-foot addition in 2010.

JAIL INSTITUTES COVID-19 PRECAUTIONS

Well before shovel hits dirt on new construction, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office has gone about implementing new practices to help prevent COVID-19 from entering the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center — both for the safety of jail staff and inmate population. The sheriff’s office is following all recommendations from the National Institute of Corrections, as well as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Amanda Hunter, the agency’s lead public information officer, wrote in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. Every new inmate is screened upon intake and, when needed, isolated and tested for COVID-19; inmates are selected for testing based on answers to CDC-distributed questionnaires. When it’s determined an inmate will be tested, the inmate is placed in a negative pressure cell while awaiting test results. Due to this protocol, jail staff has already tested several new inmates, but all tests have come back negative as of April 20, Hunter wrote.

helping other people. “So, what do we do now? How can we use this situation to help others?” She reminded the virtual gathering: “Not everybody has the problem-solving skills that you have.” No doubt, it’s a challenging time. “This has been a big shock, in income, obviously,” O’Neil said. “How do we get people to trust us, to let them come to our business, and let them continue to get back to a normal life?” she asked. O’Neil then cited the work of Elisabeth Kubler Ross, who defined the five stages of grief.Those stages are denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. “We are grieving our normal lives.We’re grieving our normal economy. We’re grieving the stock market — when it was high. We’re grieving teachers that can teach our kids, so we don’t have to. “We’re grieving our jobs. We’re grieving our co-workers. And, we’re grieving those people who are sick and have gone,” O’Neil said. Initially, O’Neil said, people, including herself, thought:“That’s not going to happen here.” There’s been anger, too. “Are we angry that the governor didn’t close the beaches during Spring Break? Are we angry that the president didn’t do things quicker.Are we angry because we just lost our jobs? What are we angry about?” O’Neil asked.

Vote-by-Mail ballots

If you would like to vote by mail, go online to PascoVotes.gov, call (800) 851-8754 or send a handwritten request to Brian E. Corley, P.O. Box 300, Dade City, Florida, 33526-0300. Handwritten requests must include your signature and date of birth. Florida voters have had the option for no-excuse voting by mail and utilization has increased exponentially since its inception. Handwritten requests must include your date of birth and signature. Requests for vote-by-mail are accepted daily and can be made for up to two election cycles. Ballots are mailed approximately 40 days prior to any election, and per Florida Law, are due back in the Supervisor of Elections' Office by 7 p.m. Election Day.

“We know this, we have to have an election. It’s in the constitution. You can’t just defer the presidential election in November. It’s going to happen, and we’re going to make it work. We just have to be a little innovative on how we do it,” Corley said. People are asking: “What can we do to try to get back to some normalcy?” There have been losses, and that’s taking a toll. “There’s a lot of depression,” O’Neil said. She talked about a client who told O’Neil that suddenly she “would just burst into tears because all of a sudden, no one is coming in her store. “These are serious things,” the business consultant said. Eventually, there’s acceptance. “I think it’s going to be easier for us, once the economy opens back up, our country opens back up,” O’Neil said. In the meantime, she reminded the women:“There are a lot of blessings in this challenge and nobody can deny that. “We have time. “We have time to ride our bikes. “We have time to play with our kids. “We’re cooking more. “We’re working differently and we’re socializing differently. “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities. “It’s hard to do that, when you have so many things on your schedule. But, now that your schedule is blank, except for Zoom meetings, you can easily prioritize. “What things were you doing that were not that important?” she asked. “Now that you are spending more time with your family — maybe you limit some of those (less important) things, so you can continue to do that (in the future),” O’Neil said.

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health.” “Our poll workers are generally senior citizens.They’re concerned for their health and their safety. Couldn’t blame them at all,” he said. When that happened, Corley said he reached out to Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles, Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning and Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco for help. “Due to schools being closed, we got a tremendous response from teachers and school-related personnel, and others,” Corley said. Additionally, at the last minute, he said, “we lost polling places.” So, polling sites had to be consolidated. “We limped through the PPP (Presidential Preference Primary). “We’re looking ahead toward the fall, and if we have a similar situation, or fear of a similar situation, we’re going to have a serious issue with adequate poll workers,” Corley said. “We’re being proactive as the state asso-

Flexibility is needed because Florida is diverse. “What Miami-Dade needs is not the same as what Pasco needs. What Pasco needs is not the same as what Clay County needs,” he said. “Vote by mail right now is about a third of the vote,” he said, but predicts it will increase to about 60%. “The reason we’re asking for Early Voting is because they are larger facilities. We can control some of the safety, as far as the protocols for social distancing. “Having larger facilities would incorporate our model to get voters in and out, expeditiously and safely,” he said. “You could see a model where you don’t have your traditional election day polling places,” he said. Rather, there could be 15 to 20 early voting sites that are larger facilities that would take the place of election day, neighborhood polling places. “The problem is, you can’t just decide mid-October to do X,Y and Z. You have to plan for it now,” Corley said. “Quite frankly, all options are on the table.

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April 29, 2020

11A


Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Cancellation of spring sports leaves many dejected By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

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here was at least a glimmer of hope the 2020 Florida high school spring sports season would resume, even amid concerns about coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). But, optimism vanished when the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) on April 20 announced it would cancel all FHSAA-affiliated events. The cancellations include the state series and championships events, for spring sports. The statewide sports organization also announced no additional eligibility will be granted for spring sport athletes, including seniors,“under the guidance of the Florida Department of Education regarding grade level retention, and upon review of Florida Statutes and FHSAA Bylaws.” And, just like that, high school senior athletic careers have come to an end. It happened months sooner than expected, with no clue for athletes that a game, match or meet around mid-March would officially be their last. The reality has left many local senior athletes feeling dejected, including Sunlake High’s Gianna Levy. “It was really hard on me,” said Levy. “I cried.To be honest, I cried a lot.” The prep track and field season offered Levy a final chance to boost her stats and times, to get on the radar of NCAA Division I college programs, as a heptathlete. She’s still holding out hope of being able to compete on the AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) circuit this summer to get those college looks, but even that’s no guarantee. “It definitely is really taking a really big toll on me,” Levy said.“This was a lot of people’s out ticket (to college) and now we don’t have that out ticket.” Levy was only able participate in a couple track events before the varsity season came to a screeching halt. She was nursing a hip injury, which arose in February after she won a state title in girls weightlifting. Though she’d already been a three-time state track and field qualifier and holds the school’s 400-meter dash record, Levy was dogged to put forth a banner senior campaign.“I just had so many goals in mind,” she said. Other seniors had similar ambitions for their high school swan song. Land O’ Lakes High senior Courtney Piltaver is a two-time Sunshine Athletic Conference East Girls Tennis Player of the Year. She was poised again to shine in her final high school tennis season, coming off a district title and state finalist. “I was pretty upset because it was my senior year, and it really sucks that I didn’t get to enjoy the full season with my team and my coaches, and kind of just close out,” said Piltaver, who’s signed with NCAA Division II University of Montevallo in Alabama. The tennis standout added that not having the typical ceremonial senior night celebration,“was kind of heartbreaking, because that was something I was really looking forward to since my freshman year.”

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THIS OUT

PREP FOOTBALL STANDOUTS PRIME FOR DIVISION I RANKS Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) may have halted on-field sporting activities, but it hasn’t stopped local standout high school athletes from announcing their plans for the next level. That’s the case for a trio of rising senior football players — who verbally committed to play bigtime Division I FBS football, in the same midwestern state. Steinbrenner High junior running back Deon Silas and Armwood junior cornerback Noah Biglow, a Wesley Chapel resident who previously played for Wiregrass Ranch High, have pledged to Iowa State University, a Big 12 program. Meanwhile, Gaither High junior cornerback/receiver Jordan Oladokun announced he’s headed to the University of Iowa, a Big 10 school. All three athletes are consensus threestar prospects, according to multiple online

FILE

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) on April 20 announced it would cancel all FHSAA-affiliated events, including the state series and championships events, for spring sports.

COURTESY OF TYLER FINN

From left: Wiregrass Ranch High softball seniors Kailey Riddlesworth, Cassidy Eason, Lexi Gaiefsky and Loryn Finn. These athletes only played nine games of a 27-game regular season schedule, due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Senior infielder Loryn Finn was in the midst of her best hitting season on the Wiregrass Ranch High softball team, sporting a .360/.467/.440 slash line through nine games. The team captain also was chasing the 100 career hit milestone — a possibility with 18 regular season games remaining on the schedule, until athletics activities were scrapped. Finn won’t be playing college ball. She hasn’t quite come to grips that a March 11 loss to Wesley Chapel High is perhaps the final time she’ll pick up a bat, ball and glove competitively. “It’s definitely hard. I’m kind of in shock,” Finn said, bluntly. Aside from game action, Finn still longs for those last few “bus rides to games, and just jamming to music with players and teammates.” With a tinge of despair in her voice, Finn labeled her four-year softball experience as “just always been fun.” Wiregrass Ranch assistant softball coach Tyler Finn feels for his senior daughter and the many other players on the team:“It’s really just not the seniors, it’s freshmen, it’s everybody. It’s tough on them, too. It affects every player, all of them; their season was cut short.” He also observed his daughter’s high school athletics career coming to an abrupt halt. Besides softball, Finn was a three-time AllConference golfer:“She’s gotten to the point where she just wants to get into college and get the education going. She had a really good high school softball career and golf career. …She’s going to miss those kids that she played with since she was little — that’s the hard part.” Though the traditional season is done, the assistant coach is looking for some way to hold a final showcase in the summer that would bring together various senior high school softball players countywide, assum-

ing restrictions on parks and gatherings are lifted. “The kids deserve it,” he said.

recruiting outlets. The 5-foot-7, 170-pound Silas posted 2,058 all-purpose yards and 24 total touchdowns last season, an integral part of a Steinbrenner team that went 12-2 and reached the Class 8A state semifinals. If his commitment holds, Silas will join fellow Steinbrenner teammate Aidan Bitter, who signed with Iowa State in December and will be a college freshman this fall. The 6-foot, 175-pound Biglow registered 20 tackles and six interceptions in his first season at Armwood, after transferring from Wiregrass Ranch. His older brother, Daniel Biglow, was a former standout at Wiregrass Ranch who helped the program to two straight playoff appearances in 2016 and 2017. The elder sibling signed to play Division I FBS football at Florida Atlantic University, but was forced to retire due to a rare cardiovascular condition. The 5-foot-11, 185-pound Oladokun last season tallied 995 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns, to go along with 20 tackles and two interceptions on defense, spurring Gaither to a 12-2 mark and the Class 6A state semifinals. He previously played at Academy at the Lakes his eighth grade and freshman seasons before transferring to Gaither in 2018, his sophomore year. Like Biglow, Oladokun has some college football blood-

lines. His older brother, Chris Oladokun, was the starting quarterback at Division I FCS Samford University (Homewood, Alabama) last season, as a junior.

‘I KNEW IT WAS COMING’

Back on March 31, the FHSAA issued a statement that left open the possibility of a spring sports season, saying they could run from as soon as May 3 through June 30. The FHSAA also had indicated if a spring sports season is canceled altogether, it was working on a solution to create additional athletics eligibility for students who were unable to participate. FHSAA-sanctioned spring sports include baseball, flag football, lacrosse, softball, tennis, track & field, boys volleyball, water polo and boys weightlifting. However, as days and weeks pressed on, many saw the writing on the wall that spring sports would not return this year, due to the pandemic. “I knew it was coming. I didn’t want to admit it to myself, I didn’t want to accept it, but I knew it was coming,” said Academy at the Lakes (AATL) varsity baseball coach Ken Akins. “Once the FHSAA said,‘OK, we’re thinking about extending it into summer and deep into June,’ there was a little bit of hope there, but once you get into June you start messing with all the travel sports — baseball and softball are huge in the summertime.” Academy at the Lakes athletic director Tom Haslam offered a similar take on the FHSAA’s decision: “We kind of knew this was coming, but we hated to hear the actual directive.” He added:“It’s understandable, they have to do it, so we don’t disagree with it, we expected it.” The directive came at a time when multiple AATL programs were hitting their stride. The AATL baseball team was on its best start in program history, already matching its win total from 2019 — thanks to contribu-

COURTESY OF GIANNA LEVY

Sunlake High senior track and field standout Gianna Levy was looking to get on the radar of Division I college athletics programs before the spring season was cut short.

tions from four seniors. The school’s boys tennis team, meanwhile, was expected to contend for a state championship, like the prior season. Of course, the FHSAA’s salvo wiped out the Land O’ Lakes-based private school’s softball, track and field, and boys weightlifting teams. All told, there were 17 seniors among those five teams. “It affects everybody’s season,” Haslam said,“but the seniors, you really feel for it.” He added,“It’s not just athletic seniors, but seniors in anything.You’re talking about proms and special events that just aren’t going to happen. It’s just sad. Sad’s the best word I have for it.” Though much attention has been brought to how this year’s seniors are affected, and rightly so, the longtime athletic director also believes the canceled spring season could have major ripple effects for juniors looking to get recruited by various college programs. Haslam put it like this:“It hurts a lot of the juniors, because not only are they putting stats on paper, but they’re also missing workout time, and it’s going to be hard to develop their skills as normal, because they can’t get in the cages and gyms, and there’s no spring ball, and there may not even be travel ball in the summer. “It’s pretty far-reaching, so it doesn’t just affect seniors on that level.You can’t even go out in a park and shoot hoops,” he said.

LEGENDARY GAITHER BASEBALL COACH PASSES AWAY

Legendary Gaither High School varsity baseball coach Frank Permuy died on April 19, following a yearlong battle with brain cancer, multiple media outlets reported. He was 77. Permuy coached Gaither for 30 seasons — from when the school first opened in 1984 up until 2014. He registered a 513-276 (.650) record in that span, guiding the Cowboys to 16 playoff berths, 13 district titles, eight Western Conference titles, two regional championships and a state-runner up finish. Notable former players Permuy coached include current Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash and Cleveland Indians outfielder Oscar Mercado. In 2015, the local school named its baseball field in his honor, calling it ‘Frank Permuy Park.’ Before his time at Gaither, Permuy also coached baseball at Leto and Tampa Catholic high schools, along with the University of Tampa — totaling more than

FILE

Frank Permuy

700 career victories across the prep and college levels. Permuy grew up in Ybor City and attended Plant High School, playing baseball there for three seasons. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tampa and a master’s from Mississippi State University, upon entering the coaching ranks. Permuy over the years earned inductions into several Halls of Fame — American Baseball Coaches Association (2018), Sports Club of Tampa (2016), National High School Baseball Coaches Association (2013), Florida High School Athletic Association (2010) and Florida Athletic Coaches Association (2010).

Grocery Shopping? Pick up a little extra and help pick up someone's spirits. Food bank shelves are bare and the need is great. If you can give, please do. 12A

April 29, 2020

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APRIL 29, 2020

Lifting spirits in all sorts of ways People step up to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic through hot meals, a bubble show, chemical pool cleanings, and letters or greeting cards. By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

MAKE A VETERAN’S DAY BRIGHTER!

As nursing homes remain off-limits to visitors, the Friends of the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home have launched a project aimed at brightening veterans’ days. The project is called Operation FAV (For Any Veteran) and it seeks to enlist the help of anyone who wants to get involved to help overcome social distancing requirements by writing a note or sending a card to residents at the nursing home. Organizers of the effort note,“this Land O’Lakes nursing home has, like nursing homes throughout the world, been closed for visitors, leaving the residents there somewhat isolated.” The great thing about this project is that anyone, of any age, can get involved. All you have to do to is make up a card, note or letter, and address them: For Any Veteran Baldomero Lopez State Veterans’ Nursing Home 6919 Parkway Blvd. Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 The staff will make sure your cards and notes are distributed to the veterans there who haven’t had visitors in a while. Cards also can be sent in bulk to the same address.

A UNIQUE WAY OF REACHING OUT

While acknowledging that a swimming pool is not the most important necessity in life, Glenn Simpson, of GPS Pool, is offering a free chemical pool service to those age 60 and older. For many people, swimming in their pool is the only activity they have during this time of pandemic, Simpson says, in a blurb about his offer. Call (813) 948-9091 for details. Tell us about acts of kindness If you know people who are going out of their way to make life easier for others during this pandemic, please let us know by emailing bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com.

COURTESY OF BLAISE RYNDES

Spreading joy through bubbles

Blaise Ryndes, of Land O’ Lakes, attracted national attention when he took his bubble-making skills to America’s Got Talent. Now, during a time of a global pandemic, the performer decided to take to his neighborhood streets, to help spread joy during a time of social isolation. He recently put on a one-car bubble parade for his neighbors. “To abide by social distancing, everyone stayed in their own yards and we went house to house spreading fun bubbles around, or as I like to call them, little orbs of happiness and cleanliness,” Ryndes reports, in an email to The Laker/Lutz News. He described his act as “an effort to relieve the angst of quarantine.” And, based on the photos, it looks like his mobile “Spheres Bubble Show,” was a hit.

Helping two groups, at the same time When Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey heard about an effort to show appreciation to front-line workers during the global pandemic, she latched onto it — immediately. The initiative — launched by Liz Bernich, of Chatham, New Jersey, and Gina McGuire, of Madison, New Jersey – is called the Frontline Appreciation Group (FLAG) 2020. They wanted to show appreciation to front-line workers, and help restaurants at the same time. So, they began raising money that they spent to help feed front-line workers. When Starkey heard about the initiative she launched a Pasco chapter, which is known as FLAG2020Pasco. As of last week, a total of 105 meals had been delivered, with 64 going to AdventHealth Dade City, and 41 to BayCare’s North Bay Hospital in New Port Richey. Another delivery was planned for the evening

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY COMMISSIONER KATHRYN STARKEY

AdventHealth staff is joined by volunteers, including Pasco County School Board member Allen Altman, after the meals are delivered to the Dade City hospital.

of April 24 at AdventHealth Zephyrhills. So far, restaurants that have participated include Boulevard Beef & Ale and Rose’s Bistro Off Main, both in downtown New Port Richey, which provided meals for North Bay Hospital; and, Green Door on 8th, which provided meals for AdventHealth Dade City. Donations supporting the efforts so far have come from citizens, as well as county officials including Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley, Pasco County School Board

Serving meals, in show of gratitude It’s not uncommon for a restaurant to have a special, but Nabruzzi Trattoria has taken its Wednesday night specials to an entirely new level. It is delivering free hot meals to people who serve the community. “Every Wednesday we’re going to pick somebody in the area that has put themselves at risk, that are out there every day,” said Massimo Sabetti, the COURTESY OF DANA NABRUZZI chef/owner of Nabruzzi Trattoria at 6062 Van Dyke Coty Darmoth is one of the chefs at Nabruzzi Trattoria. Road in Lutz. The restaurant was closed for about two On April 15, the restaurant delivered a weeks, before deciding to reopen for take- meal to Hillsborough County Rescue Station out and curbside, only. 34, on Van Dyke Road, and then, on April 22, When it reopened, Sabetti and his wife it delivered a meal for workers at Magnolia decided:“We have to do something for the Manor Assisted Living Facility. community during this time,” he said. “We pick a place every week, I call, coorAfter all, the community support is the dinate, what time is good for them? I get my reason the restaurant has done well. chefs to make it and we bring it to them,” So, on April 8, a meal was delivered to said Sabetti said. support the workers at Publix, and then anHe’s giving back to a community that has other delivery was made that night to been very good to him, he said. support the emergency room staff at St. “The neighborhood has been very, very Joseph’s Hospital-North. supportive. I’m very fortunate.”

To help, send donations to: Venmo: @FLAG2020Pasco PayPal: PayPal.me/FLAG2020Pasco

member Allen Altman, Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning and former Pasco Clerk & Comptroller Paula O’Neil. When she saw the initiative on the news, Starkey said she wanted to get involved because it is innovative and smart.

Gerry Ackley and Yvonne Wassman stand on one side of the truck loaded with food, while Steve Graves and Sandy Graves stand on the other. The food goes to help the hungry and is being supported through a donation by the seniors at COURTESY OF LISA KAMPS Sunlake High School.

Sunlake High seniors step up When Pasco 2020 Grad Bash was canceled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, seniors from Sunlake High School decided they wanted to do something worthwhile with the money they’d raised to pay for the event’s buses.They decided to make a big donation to Keystone Community Church’s Second Serving program. That program provides food for the homeless, operates a food pantry and helps people with other essentials, during their time of need. The church is immensely grateful, said Lisa Kamps, of the Second Serving program. “The most important thing, I think, for the senior class was to reach out in the Lutz,

Land O’ Lakes area, because we don’t have as many opportunities here to assist families in need. “They wanted to be sure that we were reaching people in this area,” Kamps said, noting that not all of the money will go for food.“We have to see what the need is, and meet it.” Monica Isle, assistant superintendent of high schools for Pasco County Schools, gave kudos to the Sunlake seniors during the April 21 school board meeting. “I think it just speaks to our graduating class that we have — of how much they’re thinking of how they can give back to the community,” Isle said.

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According to The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) website, alligator courtship season begins in April, followed by mating in May or June. Females build a mount nest of soil, vegetation or debris, and deposit an average of 32 eggs to 46 eggs in late June or early July. Incubation requires approximately 63 days to 68 days, and hatching occurs from mid-August through early September. The FWC encourages people to never feed alligators and to keep their distance if they see one. People can also stay safe by only swimming in designated swimming areas and keeping pets and small children away from the water. Send your pet and wildlife news to news@lakerlutznews.com.

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Mockingbirds like to sing, a lot This mockingbird found a place to perch and rest on a budding branch of a crape myrtle tree in Steve Vinik’s yard in Lexington Oaks, Wesley Chapel. The Northern Mockingbird (state bird of Florida) is common in backyards, but doesn’t often visit feeders. You can encourage mockingbirds to visit your yard by keeping an open lawn and providing fruiting trees or bushes, including mulberries, hawthorns, and blackberry brambles.

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Serving meals to children in need By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Efforts are ongoing to keep children fed during this time of the coronavirus disease2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. As school district officials know, for many children their school meals are their only reliable source of food. So, both the Pasco and Hillsborough County school districts have set up meal distribution sites and have been providing meals to students ages 18 and under. At the Pasco County School Board’s April 21 audio meeting, Betsy Kuhn, assistant superintendent of support services, provided this update. “Today (April 21) was our fifth week in meal service, since schools closed,” she said. During the week of March 23, the district served approximately 5,500 students per day, with prepackaged meals at its original feeding sites. On March 31, it began distributing prepackaged meals once a week, with each student receiving five breakfasts and five lunches for the week.That week, it served 80,680 meals to over 8,000 students at 27 sites and 16 bus stops. On April 21, it served 143,000 meals to 14,300 students, which was slightly less than the week before. All in all, the district has served more than 536,200 meals since the school closure began, Kuhn said. The district has received some donations, to add to its prepackaged foods, she said, noting it has

received fresh corn and cucumbers. She also noted that Connerton Elementary was scheduled to be added on April 28, as one of the district’s distribution sites. “We have had a huge demand in the Central Area,” Kuhn said, noting that 1,400 students were served on April 21 at Pine View Elementary. The Pasco distribution program will cease on May 19, but is set to begin again on June 2, with some modifications. In other news, Pasco Schools Deputy Superintendent Ray Gadd said the district will be joining Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco, Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano, State Rep. Ardian Zika and State Sen. President Wilton Simpson to initiate a food drive. “Even though we’ve been very successful at feeding our students, we remain concerned that as summer approaches, it’s going to become more difficult,” Gadd said. He noted that Fasano is donating a substantial amount of food. He also said “we’ve also reached out to some not-for-profits around the state that are shipping fresh produce throughout the state, and we’re trying to make connections with them, and we’re very optimistic that that’s going to occur.” School board members Allen Altman and Cynthia Armstrong expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts. “I think it’s never been more evident that our schools are much more than education opportunities. What this system,

Feeding sites

Additional sites have been added to Pasco County Schools’ drive-thru feeding sites. Here is the current list of active sites within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area. The sites are open Tuesdays only, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bags of food include breakfast and lunch for five days, for each student. The sites are: • Chester W. Taylor Elementary • Connerton Elementary • New River Elementary • Pasco High School • Pasco Middle School • Pine View Elementary • Quail Hollow Elementary • Rodney B. Cox Elementary • San Antonio Elementary • West Zephyrhills Elementary • Zephyrhills High School

what our employees and community support have done to support families in the last month, is nothing short of amazing,” Altman said. He also noted that he hopes when the pandemic passes, “people will remember how much the public school system contributed to the community.” Armstrong said it has been heartwarming to see the gratitude expressed by people receiving the food. “Seeing the handmade thank you signs

that the students have made and they hold up in the windows, really makes you appreciate what we’re able to do for our students’ families,”Armstrong said. Meanwhile, in Hillsborough County, on April 15, the district began distributing food one day per week—with students receiving one week of food at a time. “Due to new CDC guidelines and a statewide stay-at-home order, our district wants to minimize contact between Student Nutrition Services workers and our families. We believe one-day-a-week food distribution will be safer for the community as a whole,” the website says. “Families will be able to pick up a week’s worth of nutritious meals every Wednesday at the same 147 sites, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. This will include one pound of lunch meat, a loaf of bread, milk, juice and nutritious snacks. “Students will receive enough food for each school day. Buses also will be transporting foods into specific neighborhoods for pick up every Wednesday. Each student will receive a bag of food that needs to be refrigerated, and one that can stay at room temperature. “It’s important to note that these food bags will weigh over 10 pounds together. If you are walking up or riding a bike to a Grab-and-Go site, please have your child bring their empty backpack to provide a simple way to transport the food,” the website says. For a list of frequently asked questions, visit HillsboroughSchools.org.

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$

ON THE SUITE

MATTRESS S

SALE E! *See Store for Details s

4-PIECE CAAST IRON BLACK KITCCHEN SUITE

• 25 cu.. ft. Sidebyy-Side b Refrigerator with Exterior Ice and Wa W ater and Soft MSS25C4MGK MMV4206HK MER8800HK MDB7959SHK Freese Bin • 30-Inch Wide Electric Range with Tr True Convection • 2.0 Cu.. Ft.. OverThe-Ranggee Microwa wa avve with Interior Cooking Rack • TToop Control Powerful

COUNTER DEPTH

22 Cu. Ft. BottomMount Refriggeerator • Full-Width C Cooll Zone Z Drawer 24 cu.ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator #WRS315SDHM - MAPP $1,499 • Frameless Glass Shelves • Adjustable Gallon Door Bins • Can Caddy

5.3 cu.ft. Freestanding Electric Range with 5 Elements #WFE320MOES- MAP $749 • Frozen Bake™ TeTechnology • FlexHeat™ Dual Radiant Element • Keep Warm Setting

ENERGY STAR® Certified Dishwasher #WDF330PAHS - MAP $579 • 1-Hour Wash Cycle C • Cycle Memory • Soil Sensor

1.7 cu.ft. Microwave Hood Combination #WMH31017HS - MAP $319 • Microwave Presets • Electronic Touch Controls • Dishwasher-Safe Turntable Plate

JUST 30 MINUTES FROM WESLEY CHAPEL AND LAN ND O’’ LAKES APPLIANCES • BEDDING • CENTRAL CENNTRAL AIR 6B

April 29, 2020

10651 HWY. Y.. 3001 SOUTH • DADE CITY • WWW W.SONNYSAPPLIANCES.NET • 352-567-6224 M M-FF 9 AM – 5 PM P • SAATT 9 AM – 4 PM • CLOSED CLOSSED SUNDAAYYS TO BE WITH FAMIL FA F LYY

www.LakerLutzNews.com

Slide-Out Shelves forr Easy Accesss

119999

$

Please see dealer d for details. Photos are for illustration purrposes only. Financing available.

We accept Visa, MC, Discovery, Wells Fargo


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