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Flurry of Pasco road projects underway

A strong partnership between Pasco County and the Florida Department of Transportation has paved the way for the multitude of projects. By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

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Drive along nearly any major Pasco County artery and you are likely to be backed up in traffic — during rush hour. At the same time, it’s obvious to motorists that work is underway on numerous Pasco roadways.

Once those projects are completed, Pasco’s road network is expected to be better able to handle the county’s considerable growth. Projects under construction, or that soon will be, are expected to improve traffic flow at State Road 56 and Interstate 75; offer smoother travel through East Pasco County on a new alignment for State Road 52; increase access to Interstate 75 with a new interchange at Overpass Road; and, add capacity at State Road 52 and U.S. 41. Those projects were discussed a transportation briefing hosted by the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce via

Zoom — featuring Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Kevin Thibault and U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis. Thibault and Bilirakis touched on a number of big-picture issues involving transportation. Thibault talked about the expectation of reduced gas tax revenues over time, as motorists make the switch to electric cars and vehicles with higher fuel efficiency. Bilirakis talked about the proposed $2 trillion infrastructure package. He said he doesn’t support the package. See ROAD, page 9A

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Pasco County’s willingness to partner with the Florida Department of Transportation has helped the county to secure a number of state road improvements, according to FDOT District 7 Secretary David Gwynn. He pointed to a project that extends State Road 56, from Meadow Pointe Boulevard to U.S. 301, as a prime example. For a detailed look at current Florida Department of Transportation projects in Pasco County, please turn to page 1B.

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through public testimony, including 50 emails in favor of the moratorium that were read into the record. Some supporting the pause said the county needed time to collect data, to be sure that it is basing its decisions on sound information. Others said the county needs to consider the impacts that increased multifamily development is having on the area’s infrastructure, including schools, roads and public safety. At previous public hearings, opponents to the moratorium said that the county’s apartment market is not overbuilt and that apartments play an important role in the county’s success. After the board’s vote, Moore thanked his colleagues and county staff. “We do need to analyze and look very closely at the impacts that multifamily can have in that area, when it comes to economic development; when it comes to public safety … traffic, schools. “These all have to be taken into consideration. But this gives us the time to do it. So,

Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed an executive order lifting all local COVID-19 restrictions and mandates on individuals and businesses. As a result, Hillsborough County, Pasco County and the city of Tampa have dropped their mask requirements. The order, however, does not apply to school districts — and both Pasco County Schools and Hillsborough County Schools will keep their mask orders and other safety protocols in place until the end of the school year. Private businesses are not subject to the governor’s order, either, meaning they can keep their COVID-19 restrictions — and at this point, many continue to require masks, limit indoor seating and follow other safety measures. Increased traffic on area roads and more cars in retail and restaurant parking lots, however, provide clear indications that more people are getting out and about. Air travel is up — way up. The Transportation Security Administration reported there were 1.7 million travelers at its checkpoints on May 9, compared to 200,815 on the same day last year. However, the number of air travelers is still substantially lower than it was in 2019, when there were 2.4 million air passengers on the same day. Many travelers — now fully vaccinated — were flying to see family for the first time since the pandemic began.Televised news reports captured emotional reunions of moms and their kids, on Mother’s Day, all over the country. Travel experts also are advising those wishing to take summer vacations to plan early to ensure accommodations and rental cars are available. In another sign that things are changing,

See MULTIFAMILY, page 9A

See COVID-19, page 9A

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This 262-unit apartment development is being built off State Road 54, at Oak Grove Boulevard. New applications for multifamily development in a portion of Pasco County have been on hold for six months, while the county staff collects data to determine whether there’s an oversaturation of multifamily development.

Pasco adopts a six-month pause on new multifamily requests The temporary moratorium applies only to a portion of the county within Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore’s District 2.

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The site is located at the corner of of heading toward a construction start Magnolia Boulevard and Wesley Chapel Amici Plaza in spring with an opening likely Boulevard, which is also known as County ksteele@lakerlutznews.com by the end of 2016. Road 54. Pasco County records show a conceptual Pasco County is moving forward with acOwners of Amici Pizza & Deli are planthe plan with about 3,000 square feet for Road ning to build a new stand-alone restaurant, for quisition of right-of-way along County restaurant, and about 1,800 square feet 54 to prepare for the expansion of the twowith additional retail space, on Wesley retail. the lane road into a four-lane road at Chapel Boulevard. “We’d like to have our own building and 54 junction of State Road 56 and State Road The new restaurant is a short distance a bigger kitchen,” said Andrea Mannino. from the existing Amici restaurant in Grand No decisions have been made on the adSee PIZZA, page 13A Oaks Square, at Wesley Chapel and Pet Lane. ditional retail space, he said. Andrea and Josephine Mannino, are

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Pasco administrator to retire in

By Kathy Steele

ksteele@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County Administrator Michele Baker expects to be very busy over the next year and a half. She’ll be crossing off a to-do list, one by one, before leaving in 2017 to go on a lengthy road trip with her husband. The couple will hit the road with their recreational vehicle and their motorcycles, on a tour of as many baseball parks and national parks as they can squeeze into a year. “That’s been our dream,” Baker said, so letting her contract lapse in July 2017 makes sense. But, don’t expect a lame duck administrator. “There’s no kicking back here,” Baker said.“This isn’t me slowing down. ” Baker has told Pasco County commissioners she won’t seek renewal of her current two-year contract, which makes her

2017

last day July 9, 2017. the jail and construction of new fire stations By then, Baker will • Relocating have worked 35 years central Pasco more government offices to in public service, 24 Baker also plans to fill vacancies for a of those years with few key leadership positions that remain, Pasco County. cluding an assistant county administrator infor Her to-do list, in public safety and administration. short form, includes: Progress has been made, Baker said, but • Completing mas- government services still could be more ter plans and updates customer-friendly. for storm water, solid A culture that was decades in the waste and tourism making is being changed, she said.“You don’t • Funding and building a diverging get to dia- turn a canoe.You’re turning mond road design to ease traffic congestion a ship.” Public service wasn’t Baker’s first at State Road 56 and Interstate 75 career choice. • Completing the State Road 56 extenOver the years she worked sion as a waitress, • Nurturing SunWest Park, the county’s flight attendant and a theater manager. She also served in the U.S.Air Force Reserve. fledgling aqua park Her undergraduate degree was in • Replacing and repairing aging busiinfra- ness administration. structure and roads damaged by the It wasn’t until she accepted a secretarial summer flooding • Making progress on the expansion of See RETIRE, page 11A Michele Baker

Kumquats reign supreme at area festival

By Kathy Steele

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Saturday, January 30, 2016 9 AM - 5 PM Historic Downtown Dade City

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The first kumquat tree in St. Joseph took root more than 100 years ago, when C.J. Nathe planted it in his backyard. He added a few more, and soon he had small grove on an acre of fertile ground. a The kumquat king, as Nathe was later dubbed, transformed a quiet back road community into the Kumquat Capital of the World. An open house will take place on Jan. and Jan. 29 at the Kumquat Growers 28 packi h d

Margie Neuhofer and her h

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Pasco County has put a pause on applications for new multifamily entitlements, within a specific area of the county. The 180-day moratorium — which is retroactive to April 1 — received unanimous approval by the Pasco County Commission on May 4. The moratorium applies to an area that is entirely within County Commissioner Mike Moore’s District 2. It is generally defined as between State Road 52, on the end; U.S. 41, on the west; State Road 54 on the south; and, Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, on the east, with the boundary zig-zagging between District 1, represented by Commission Chairman Ron Oakley, and Moore’s District 2. The vote followed considerable public support for the action, as evidenced

COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO

Newly elected officers GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club president Annette Bellingar, left, conducted the installation of newly elected officers of the Little Women of Lutz, a teen service club, affiliated with, sponsored and mentored by the woman’s club. The girls volunteer for many community service projects, learn leadership and organizational skills, work closely with the woman’s club and accumulate service hours required by their schools. From left: Annette Bellingar; Jasmin Doering, recording secretary; Kate Frederick, president; Ava Frederick, treasurer; Ashlyn Turnage, first vice president; and Rachel Lightner, outgoing president.

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Anisha and Pratik Patel are owners of the new Lutz Montessori School. The couple also owns Montessori at Trinity Oaks.

Montessori education uses a sensorial approach to learning Speed limit reduced on Mentmore Boulevard By B.C. Manion

The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

Following a speed study on Mentmore Boulevard, the speed limit is being lowered on the road — from Bexley Village Drive to State Road 54 — from 40 mph to 30 mph. The Pasco County Commission approved the change on May 4. The Florida Department of Transportation’s Speed Zoning Manual allows for the application of engineering

judgment to establish the speed limit when needed, according to materials in the board’s agenda packet.As a result of the operational review of traffic conditions on Mentmore Boulevard, the judgment of the traffic operations and engineering services agreed that the speed limit be revised. The reduced speed limit will take effect upon the posting of the speed signs, as required for law enforcement. The cost to install the signs is estimated at $1,000.

MEET OUR R TEAM EAM EDITORIAL T

B.C. B .C. Manion Manion was was born born and and raised raised in in O maha, Nebraska. Nebraska. She She attended attended the the Omaha, University U niversity of of Nebraska, Nebraska, at at Omaha, Omaha, gradugraduating ating with with a Bachelor Bachelor of of Arts Ar ts in in Journalism. Before Before joining joining The The Laker/Lutz Laker/Lutz Journalism. News, News, she she worked worked at at The The Omaha Omaha Sun, Sun, Th T he Hastings Hastings Tribune, Triib Tr bune, The The Hollywood Hollywood The Sun-Tattler, Sun-T -Ta Tattler, and and The The Tampa Tampa Tribune. Ta Tribune. She Tr She jjoined oined The The Laker/Lutz Lake ker/Lutz News News in in 2010 2010 and and h has as been been its its editor editor since since 2015. 2015.

““The The thing thing I love love best best about about working working here here is is knowing knowing our our newspaper newspaper makes makes a true true difdifference in fe in the the communities communities we we serve. serve. We We are are able able to to tell tell stories stories that that are are inspiring, inspiring, interinterference eesting, sting, informative, info for mative, important important and and fun, fun,” says fu says B.C. B.C.

Kevin K evin Weiss Weiss was was born born in in New New Jersey, Jersey, but but raised raised mostly mostly in in Indiana. Indiana. He He grew grew up up parpartticipating icipating in in all all different different types types of of sports, spor ts, ssuch uch as as baseball, baseball, basketball, basketball, golf golf and and c cross-country. ross-country. After Aft fter graduating graduating high high sschool chool in in 2010, 2010, he he moved moved to to Cape Cape Coral. Coral. He He attended attended USF, USF, graduating graduating in in 2014 2014 with with an an economics economics degree. degree. He He joined joined The The Laker/Lutz Laker/Lutz News News as as a staff staff reporter repor ter in in 2015. 2015.

KEVIN KE EVIN

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The Lutz Montessori School, which officially opens on June 1, will provide a sensorial-based approach to education for children ages 2 through 6. Initially, the school will offer a series of weeklong summer camps, each featuring a different theme that combines learning and fun. The school will begin its academic year in the fall, following the Montessori method of education. “We are a school, not a day care,” said Pratik Patel, who owns the school along with his wife,Anisha. Anisha explained the school’s mission: “Our whole goal is to inspire a love for learning.We feel that kids, at this young age, if they love learning by using these Montessori materials, they’ll take that love of learning into their academic years — elementary school, middle school, high school and onward. “I think the most unique thing about us is that we’re a sensorial-based curriculum. “Everything is hands-on.That’s how little kids explore and learn,” she said. Crystal Sithong, the school’s director, explained that Montessori uses a teaching approach that combines children in age groups for learning. It also is self-paced learning, allowing children who are learning at a faster rate to move ahead, while granting others more time to learn, if needed. “If they’re ready for the next set of work, we’re going to advance them at their pace,” Anisha said. Children also are given choices in which instructional materials they use to learn particular lessons. “So, if we say we’re going to work on a science puzzle, we don’t say, ‘You have to work on the horse,’ and give them no choice. “They have the freedom to go over to the science puzzle section and pick which science puzzle they’d like to work on,”

If you go Lutz Montessori School Open House WHERE: 5604 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz WHEN: May 15, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. DETAILS: Learn about the Montessori method of education that is now being offered at a new school geared for children ages 2 through 6. All are welcome INFO: Call 813-475-6030, or visit LutzMontessori.com.

Anisha said. Different teaching and learning approaches are used, too. Instructional materials are used to help children visualize abstract concepts. For example, bead chains are used to teach mathematics. “If they’re learning the number 16, they’ll take a 10-bead chain and a six-bead chain and put it together, so that makes 16. It makes it more concrete — what 16 is,” Anisha said. Children also have freedom of movement: They don’t have to sit in the same chair all day. They have rugs they use to sit on the floor or lay down, while doing their work. In addition to the Lutz Montessori School, the Patels also operate another — The Montessori at Trinity Oaks. To find out more about Lutz Montessori School, call the school for a tour (813-4756030), visit its website (LutzMontessori.com), or attend the open house on May 15.

““Working Working at Wo at The The Laker Laker allows allows me me to to really really get get a pulse pulse of of the the local local community, community, y, and and iinform nfo for m readers readers about about what what is is going going on on around around town, town, whether whether it’s wh it’s sports, sports, government, gover nment, bbusiness, usiness, education education or or human-interest human-interest stories. stories. Speaking Speaking with with and and meeting meeting people people I’d I’d’d ootherwise therwise probably probably never never encounter encounter in in another another job job is is likewise likewise fulfilling, fulfifilling,” says fu says Kevin. Kevin.

Bead chains can help children learn mathematics in a hands-on way.

MARY

Mary M ary Rathman Rathman grew grew up up in in a PolishPolishC Catholic atholic family family row row home home in in Reading, Reading, Pennsylvania Pennsylvania on on faith, faith, polka polka music, music, and and pierogi. pierogi. She She moved moved to to Maryland Maryland after aft fter she she got got married married in in 1984 1984 and and had had three three kids, kids, and and then then moved moved to to Florida Florida in in 1994 1994 when when her her husband husband accepted accepted a job job transfer. transfer. She’s been been with with The The Laker/Lutz Laker/Lutz News News for for She’s aan n impressive impressive 18 18 years years now, now, serving serving as as o our ur editorial editorial assistant. assistant.

““II love love that that The The Laker Laker is is family family oriented fa oriented and and flexible, flflexible, and and that that our our concentration concentration is is vvery ery localized localized to to most most of of Pasco Pasco County. County. Our Our readers readers can can always always find fifind something something newsnewsw orthy in in our our paper, paper,” says says Mary. Mary. worthy

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Crystal Sithong is the director of the new Lutz Montessori School, at 5604 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road. She is holding a fish that has removable pieces, which is used to help the children learn about different parts of the fish's body.

Art exhibit reveal planned for Dade City By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

When these artworks are unveiled — they, quite literally — will bring some heart to downtown Dade City. The public art exhibition is being organized by the Dade City Center for the Arts (DCCA), a 501c3 nonprofit that’s working to increase public art and art events in the city. The showcase planned for May 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., will feature the installation of 14 large, 3D metal heart sculptures built by Pasco-Hernando State College welding students and painted by local artists. Funding support for the project came from local businesses and donors. The free “Take Heart!” art, music and food event will take place at Agnes Lamb Park, 14200 Ninth St., in Dade City. The permanent heart sculptures will be placed throughout city-owned parks and along the Hardy Trail that runs through historic downtown. The painted hearts measure approximately 36 inches by 36 inches by 4 inches, attached to steel posts secured to the ground, to withstand inclement weather and other conditions. Artwork patterns differ on each heart structure, but generally include positive visual representations of joy, hope, love and beyond. Eventgoers will have the opportunity to meet several of the artists who painted the heart sculptures. Other highlights will include arts & crafts vendors, a scavenger hunt, live music and DJ, and Saint Leo University’s new food truck,The Hungry Lion. “It’s one of the rare opportunities the public actually gets to meet the artists who have created these masterpieces that our community gets to enjoy permanently, so it’s a chance for the family and children to meet real artists, working artists,” said DCCA vice president Lee Taylor. The vibrant fixtures also feature QR codes that direct people to DCCA’s website, to learn more about the artist who painted the particular piece, and where to find more of their work. “Those QR codes are really fun, because you can read about them and that’s fun to know why an artist was inspired to do what they did,”Taylor said. Since forming last summer, the DCCA had ongoing discussions about ways to introduce art into the community. Its team of seven on the board of directors settled on permanent public art sculptures, something other municipalities have introduced to their respective communities. “Melbourne has turtles, Lakeland has swans and Chicago has bulls, and we thought,‘What a great way for Dade City to kind of jump into the arena,” explained Taylor, a longtime public school arts teacher who also co-owns Out of Our Hands Gallery in downtown Dade City with her

COURTESY OF DADE CITY CENTER FOR THE ARTS

An outdoor public art walk is planned for May 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Agnes Lamb Park, in Dade City.

husband, Russ. The group landed on heart-shaped figures, given Dade City’s official seal includes a heart shape surrounded by kumquats in its center. The city also assumes the moniker,“The Heart of Pasco County.” Said Taylor, “We all came into instant agreement on the heart idea and thought that would be a great way to appeal to the city, the residents and also to the town council, ‘It’s in your logo, so how can you not say yes?’” The initiative received official approval by the Dade City Commission in September. Multiple commissioners at the time expressed enthusiasm about the project as a way to increase the area’s aesthetic for photo and marketing opportunities, foster community pride, and otherwise encourage residents and visitors alike to stroll throughout city limits. Taylor underscored the importance of such community art projects:“We know the impact that art has on communities because it gives the residents of that community a sense of pride in their city, they rally around it and say,‘Come look at us.’ It gives the town an opportunity to market itself as a place to come visit, to embrace the arts. It encourages people to be outside, and we all want that, especially to promote health and well-being.” Since commission approval, the organization put out a call for regional artists. Entries were received from all ages, backgrounds, amateurs and professionals alike, Taylor said. From there, the committee picked 14 artists to participate and complete the project. Aside from heart-shaped sculptures, the DCCA has other ideas for other community art initiatives, too. This past October, they facilitated a painted hay bale project at various park locations, which drew participation from families, teachers, students and others of various ages. The DCCA also has discussed more professional mural projects for the city’s downtown area. Similar to the heart sculptures, the DCCA would similarly arrange for a mural’s funding and labor, pending city approval. If and when a mural program gets the OK,Taylor said the group will likely solicit help from more established artists, as such an undertaking is “a big deal.” For information, visit DadeCityArts.com, call (352) 437-3204, or email info@dadecityarts.com.

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Brian Ford, the chief operating officer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers brought the Vince Lombardi Trophy to the Pasco County Commission’s meeting on May 4, to thank the commissioners for passing a resolution of congratulations for the Super Bowl champion Bucs. From left: Pasco County Attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder, Pasco County Clerk Nikki AlvarezSowles, Commission Chairman Ron Oakley, commissioners Kathryn Starkey and Mike Moore, Bucs’ COO Brian Ford, commissioners Jack Mariano and Christina Fitzpatrick, and County Administrator Dan Biles.

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Pasco Commissioners get a closeup look at Lombardi trophy The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

Brian Ford, the chief operating officer of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, made a visit to the Pasco County Commission meeting on May 4, to thank the board for honoring the organization for being Super Bowl champions. Commissioner Mike Moore read a resolution, which the board had approved at its April 20, meeting. In part, the resolutions says:“During the 2020 season, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers set franchise records for number of wins on the road, number of consecutive wins, points scored and touchdowns, and whereas the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were led by Coach Bruce Arians and record-setting performances” by quarterback Tom Brady and several other players. The resolution also notes that “on Feb. 7, 2021, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers became the first team to play in and win the Super Bowl, in their home stadium at Raymond James Stadium.” The team defeated the Kansas City

Chiefs, 31-9, to become champions of Super Bowl 55. In his response, Ford said,“The support that we have received during a very unprecedented season is just remarkable. “I’ve told people across the country that we have the best fan base in all of sports.” He noted that during the pandemic, the team was united, along with Coach Bruce Arians, and the Glazer family’s No. 1 priority was “the safety of our team, the players, the coaches and the public. “But at the end of the day, to be able to win a championship, like we did, in our hometown — the only thing that we missed was having the opportunity to have all of our fans there.” Ford expressed the organization’s appreciation for the board’s recognition through the resolution, and also for its efforts to keep things open during the pandemic. He concluded by saying: “We’ve all learned something from the past year and I think we can build on that,” and he reiterated that the “fan support” in the Tampa Bay community is second to none. www.LakerLutzNews.com

May 12, 2021

What’s Happening

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

ART EXHIBITION

The Pace Center for Girls – Pasco County has teamed up with The Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) for an art exhibition entitled,“My Art My Way.”Arts4All Florida coordinated the statewide artist-inresidence program for students with and without disabilities in schools and the Department of Juvenile Justice facilities.The inspired artworks will be on display at MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa, from May 12 through July 16. For information, visit Arts4AllFlorida.org, or call Dee Miller, director of education, at 813-957-1772.

REPUBLICAN CLUB

The Wesley Chapel Republican Club will meet on May 13 at 6:30 p.m., at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road in Land O’ Lakes.The guest speaker will be Texas Congressman Pete Sessions, who will give a first-hand account of conditions at the border and talk about how immigration is changing America. For those who cannot make the in-person meeting, a Zoom link can be provided. For information, contact Jim Cracchiolo at 813-889-8355, 813-4690227 or wesleychapelrc@gmail.com.

WALL HANGING

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a virtual DIY craft on May 13 at 4 p.m. Participants can watch a tutorial and learn how to make a wall tassel hanging using supplies from home. For information, contact Amaris Papadopoulos at 727-8613020 or amarisp@pascolibraries.org.

BREAKFAST PIZZA

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a prerecorded video on May 14. Participants can learn how to make a breakfast pizza.View the video between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary. For information, call 352-567-3576, or email Danielle Lee at daniellel@pascolibraries.org.

LUAU PROM FOR TEENS

Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, 9130 Ridge Road in New Port Richey, will host a Hawaiian Luau Prom, for teens who are visually impaired and blind, on May 15 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.The event will include colorful leis, decorations, barbecue food, and island dancing. Masks and temperature checks will be required. For more information, call 727-815-0303.

MAKE A FELT BOOKMARK

ORCHID CLUB AUCTION

The Tampa Orchid Club will host an Orchid Auction on May 15 at 10 a.m., at the Tanglewood Community Center, 28429 Williamsburg Drive in Wesley Chapel, in the Williamsburg subdivision. There will be a plant preview at 9:30 a.m. Sandwiches, snacks and drinks also will be available, as well as orchid supplies and an orchid basket drawing. Admission is free. For more information, please contact Lynn Turke at 813-833-9598 or nanturke0710@gmail.com.

CUB SCOUTS GRAND PRIX

The Boy Scouts of America Greater Tampa Bay Area Council will host a Cub Scouts Grand Prix on May 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 in Tampa. Several local law enforcement agencies and fire departments will bring out their trucks and vehicles for demonstrations.There also will be a Scouting Program Preview with information on upcoming activities and opportunities for scout units. Guests are asked to donate school supplies in support of the Hillsborough Education Foundation, and local students and teachers.Admission is free. For information, visit ScoutingEvent.com/089-grandprix.

ALL ABOUT KITES

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present “Full STEAM Ahead-Kites!” on May 15. Learn how the force of wind can overcome the force of gravity holding a kite down, and a staff member will try to keep a kite in the air by equally using the force of thrust and the force of drag. Participants can view the prerecorded video, all day, on Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary. For information, call 352-567-3576.

SONS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION

The Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will meet in person on May 15 at noon, at Mission BBQ, 5602 W. Waters Ave., in Tampa. In celebration of Armed Forces Appreciation Day, Mission BBQ will offer a free sandwich to any veteran. Guests should arrive at 11:15 a.m., to order food and eat in.There also will be a presentation of colors in the parking lot

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and singing of the National Anthem.To RSVP and for information, contact William Floyd at bfloydpres@aol.com.

OUTDOOR ART REVEAL

The Dade City Center for the Arts (DCAA) will host an Outdoor Art Reveal on May 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Agnes Lamb Park, 14200 Ninth St., in Dade City, to announce the installation of a new public outdoor art exhibition.The event will showcase 14 large, 3D metal hearts built by PascoHernando State College welding students and painted by local artists.The hearts will be placed throughout the parks and along the Hardy Trail. Guests can meet some of the artists, visit other arts and crafts vendors, listen to a DJ and live music, and purchase lunch from the Saint Leo University food truck.The DCAA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enhance the environment of Dade City through the arts and art events.

CRUISIN’ CAR SHOW

The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel, will host a Cruisin’ at Wiregrass Car & Truck Show on May 16 from noon to 4 p.m.There will be about 200 custom and classic cars and trucks lined up along Paseo Drive.Admission is free.

SUMMER READING

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present Summer Reading 2021:Tails and Tales, on May 17 at 6:30 p.m. Participants can get a sneak peek at the library’s all-ages summer program, including a preview of the reading challenge, special online events, and prizes.There also will be a Q&A session.To register, visit HCPLC.org/events.

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a curbside-pickup craft, for adults, starting May 17.The kit will include materials to make a felt strawberry bookmark. Pickup will run through May 22. Registration is required through the calendar feature on the library’s website. For information, call 813-929-1214.

REPUBLICAN CLUB

The East Pasco Republican Club will meet on May 18 at 6 p.m., at the Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills, in the Tuttle Room.The guest speaker will be Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano, District 5.

ACTIVITY KIT

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a curbside activity kit, “Around the World: Passport to New Zealand,” starting on May 18, for kindergarten through fifth grade. Kids can learn about the culture, art, music, food and language of New Zealand. Kits will be available through May 25. Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org, under the child’s name.

DEMOCRATIC CLUB

The Central Pasco Democratic Club will meet on May 19, via Zoom.The guest speaker will be Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley on the topic of current voting issues. Socializing starts at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 6:45 p.m. For details, contact Allan Ardis at aardis@tampabay.rr.com or 813-383-8315.

TRAIN SHOW & SALE

Regal Railways will host a Toy Train,Toy Show/Sale on May 22 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Hernando Fairgrounds, 6436 Broad St., in Brooksville.There will be more than 60 vendors on hand with model trains, toys, die cast cars, and more, as well as a running train layout.Admission is $5 for adults. Kids age 12 and younger are free. Credit cards will be accepted. Prepay is at RegalRailways.com. For information, call 727-244-1341.

TACO FESTIVAL

The second annual Taco Festival will take place on May 22 and May 23 at the Grove at Wesley Chapel.There will be taco and food See WHAT’S, page 5A

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May 12, 2021

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WHAT’S,

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vendors, a margarita flavor bar, a tequila bar, live bands and a DJ, and craft vendors.Adult tickets are $10, kids tickets are $5, and kids younger than age 3 are free. Parking is free. The event is dog-friendly.

RENAISSANCE FEST

The Bay Area Renaissance Festival this year is taking place at Withlacoochee River Park, 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd., in Dade City, on Saturdays and Sundays, through May 23. The event features four stages of entertainment, including musicians, magicians, jugglers and mimes.There also are more than 100 artisans in the festival marketplace to display and sell handcrafted goods. Patrons also can interact with memorable characters and watch fullcontact live armored jousting. Each festival weekend has a different theme.The event runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine.The cost is $22.95 for adults, $14.95 for kids ages 5 to 12; and free for ages 4 and younger. Parking is free. For information and tickets, visit BayAreaRenFest.com.

EAST PASCO NETWORKING

The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on May 25 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.The guest speaker will be Victoria Linville, business lending specialist. For information, contact Nils Lenz at 813-782-9491 or nilslenz@gmail.com, or Vicky Jones at 813431-1149 or donlvicl@yahoo.com.

PARENTING EXHIBIT

The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, 400 N.Ashley Drive in Tampa, will present “Picture (im)Perfect,” a documentary-style

exhibition that shows the everyday ups and downs of parenting, worldwide. Documentary family photographers use raw, unposed, undirected family moments to create visual narratives that elevate family routines to an artistic expression.The display will run through May 31, and is included with museum admission.Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for students/military/seniors. For information and tickets, call 813-221-2222.

NEW TAMPA PLAYERS

The New Tampa Players have several shows coming up during the summer. “Motherhood Out Loud” will take place on June 11, June 18 and June 19 at 7:30 p.m., and on June 13 and June 20 at 3 p.m., at Uptown Stage, at the University Mall, 2200 E. Fowler Ave., in Tampa.This presentation, arranged by Dramatists Play Service, includes the humor, raw emotions and rocky roads experienced in life. Motherhood Out Loud contains adult language and adult content; parental discretion is advised.Tickets are $20. For more information, visit NewTampaPlayers.org.

LIBRARY BOOK CHALLENGE

Pasco County Libraries has launched the online 1,000 Book Challenge, with the goal to start parents reading 1,000 books to their kids, age 5 and younger.After every book that is read, visit PascoLibraries.org/events/readingchallenges-2021/, to keep a running record. Once the challenge is complete, parents can print out a personalized certificate for the child.The “Beanstack” software used for the challenge also will be used for Pasco County Libraries’ Summer Reading program and future literacy challenges.

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COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club shared the leftovers from their recent flea market with at least 15 local, not-for-profit organizations. The club was happy to distribute household goods and clothing to numerous groups in need, such as nursing homes and shelters. Sandi Marrow loaded her SUV with clothing and accessories to deliver to AmVets (American Veterans). AmVets is a veterans service organization that helps to enhance the quality of life for veterans, their families and survivors. For information about the woman’s club, visit LutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or its Facebook page.

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NATURE NOTES

Florida’s weird and wonderful invertebrates By Whitney C. Elmore

the juices out of its dinner. Antlions also will use their tails to flick sand causing the prey to fall It’s been said that Florida is the into and remain the trap. Antlions home to many wonderful things. are easy to find in the soil along the The Fountain of Youth. edge of a roof overhang or along The best beaches. foundations.Antlions prey on a variCrystal clear springs. ety of insects, many of which are And, one very popular mouse. harmful to other animals and Florida’s flora and fauna are just plants. as magnificent — but often underTo the horror of anyone fishing appreciated.Take, for example, the the next insect out of a pool drain weird and wonderful native inveror coming across it on the bank of tebrates — those animals without a a river, the giant water bug, is as backbone — that call Florida weird as they come. home. The giant water bug, or “toe The vinegaroon, better known biter” as it is frequently called, is a as the whip scorpion, is a fearsomelarge, predatory insect with a looking creature. But it’s not brown body and large, black eyes. dangerous. Its two front legs are what earns it Vinegaroons are not actual scorperhaps the most unusual nickpions, but are related, and sport an name. These two legs function as unusual defense mechanism – vinepincers with hollow tips that inject gar-like acid. venom. Better still, the adults fly, When threatened, these arachand they have two projections on nids can secrete the foul-smelling their abdomen which allow them COURTESY OF JESSICA LOUQUE/BUGWOOD.ORG to breath. liquid making predators think twice about making this animal a Antlion larvae (juveniles) create conical depressions in the sandy While they might sound like soil and wait for unsuspecting prey to fall in to the ‘sand trap.’ meal. something out of a sci-fi horror Vinegaroons burrow under rotfilm, the giant water bug prefers to ting logs, into mulch, rocks, and so on, and Antlion larvae (juveniles) create conical be left alone and doesn’t seek out humans seek out snails, slugs and insects, such as depressions in the sandy soil and wait for as a food source. cockroaches and crickets, for dinner. unsuspecting prey to fall in to the “sand Giant water bugs prefer slow-moving Another strange-looking invertebrate trap.” Once the prey falls into the trap, the and clean bodies of water. found in Central Florida is the antlion.Their antlion grabs it in its mandibles (jaws), They are not really at home on land, and look is as frightening as their name, but this pierces the prey and injects a substance that Continued on next page insect is quite helpful. paralyzes the prey, then it proceeds to suck

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

COURTESY OF GERALD LENHARD

Click beetles produce a loud ‘click’ that can be quite startling, and memorable.

COURTESY OF RALPH MITCHELL

Vinegaroons are not actual scorpions, but are related, and sport an unusual defense mechanism – vinegar-like acid.

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The giant water bug, or ‘toe biter’ as it is frequently called, is a large, predatory insect with a brown body and large, black eyes.

giant water bugs often are seen lumbering around, as they fly from one body of water to the next. If that’s not enough, the females lay their eggs on the backs of the males.And, apparently, they taste like shrimp, and, as a result, giant water bugs are a common street food in many parts of the world. Large in size and quite striking to see, the click beetle is a common insect found across the United States. Click beetles often are considered serious pests, but their reputation is not earned. Only a few species are economCOURTESY OF JONAS JANNER HAMANN ically significant in terms of potential Cochineal scale insects have various life stages damage. In fact, click beetle larvae do with some crawling on the leaf, while others stop us a favor by preying on wood-boring moving and form a layer of wax over their bodies larvae, which do considerable damage for protection. The wax layer leaves a white, cotin Florida’s forests. tony looking mass on the leaves. Click beetles have large “false eyes” on their backs.While they are not functional eyes, they serve a very real purpose. The “false eyes” of the click beetle helps to deter predators looking to make them a meal. Predators see those “eyes” as being real and, with eyes that large, the risk is not worth the reward, causing most predators to leave these insects alone. Click beetles commonly are seen around rotting tree stumps. Using their flattened bodies, click beetles have one more trick.When threatened, click beetles will drop onto their backs and play dead. Click beetles, like all insects, have three body segments.The head, the thorax (right behind the head) and the abdomen. COURTESY OF WHITNEY CRENSHAW To get back onto their feet, click beetles Carefully scrape off cochineal scale insects move their head and thorax forward locking and smash their bodies, and you’ll see the one small part into their abdomen. When brilliant red color. they release the parts again, they flip themselves into the air, righting themselves while producing a loud “click” in the process.The stages with some crawling on the leaf, while loud “click” can be quite startling at first, and others stop moving and form a layer of wax once you’ve heard it, you’ll always remem- over their bodies for protection. The wax ber it. layer leaves a while, cottony looking mass If you like to read the labels on candies, on the leaves. Carefully scrape off and shampoo, or even fruit juices, you might rec- smash the bodies of these insects and you’ll ognize the term cochineal. see the brilliant red color. Cochineal is a common red dye used for The cochineal dye, collected from these many years in a variety of products, from insects, is safe for use in food items, but is makeup to food and even paint, cochineal is used less today than in previous years, as still in production across other parts of the synthetic dyes are now more common. world. You can find cochineal in Florida. So, as these examples demonstrate — This substance comes from a common scale with just a bit of research, closer observainsect aptly named cochineal scale. tions and an open mind, its easy to see why Common on the prickly pear cactus, Florida’s insects are just as wonderful as cochineal scale is not typically a huge prob- other treasures that call Florida home. lem for plants, although the insects do pierce into the plant parts and then suck Dr. Whitney C. Elmore is the UF/IFAS out the juices. Pasco County extension director and an Cochineal scale insects have various life urban horticulture agent III.

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valon pplauds Kyla Booker

If you know a student or nonprofit deserving of recognition, please email your nominee suggestion to kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com. PROFILED NOMINEES RECEIVE A $50 GIFT CARD FROM A LOCAL BUSINESS.

CONGRATULATIONS to Kyla Booker for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. Booker is a senior at Cypress Creek High School (CCHS) and has made a tremendous impact during her time there. For example, Booker was class president her freshman, sophomore and junior year. “For me it was about building leadership skills and pushing myself outside of my comfort zone,” says Booker. “I wanted to find a way to interact with my classmates and create relationships, while also serving my school and community.” According to Booker, being class president for those three years allowed her to become a better listener and articulate broader viewpoints. “I believe these skills are the foundation to great leadership,” says Booker. Currently, Booker is a member of the National Honors Society and the Chickfil-A Leadership Academy. She has always had a passion for serving the community, and wanted her extracurricular activities to reflect that passion. “I come from a family of mentors and volunteers, so community service and volunteering are very important to me,” says Booker. Through her involvement in the local leadership organization, Booker is able to give back to her community by pro-

viding necessities for area students who are in the foster care system. Booker is also an Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar and is graduating in the top 10% of her class, which also happens to be the inaugural graduating class at CCHS. “It is surreal that in less than a month, I will be graduating from the place where it all started. I feel like my class got to truly set the tone of the school. I loved being a part of this community and I am proud to be a Coyote,” says Booker. One person in particular Booker would like to thank for the support throughout the years is her AP literature and language teacher, Cassie Adley. “Mrs. Adley has pushed me to explore new opportunities, challenge myself and grow both academically and personally,” says Booker. When Adley first met Booker during Booker’s freshman year of English, Adley knew right away Booker was a star student. “Kyla is truly one of a kind. She is intelligent, personable and motivated. She is a student who does not give up,” says Adley, “I am so proud of the grace Kyla lives by and I know she will be successful in her future endeavors.” After graduating from CCHS, Booker plans to attend Florida State University in the Fall. She will be majoring in biomedical engineering.

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WRITERS RETREAT

Saint Leo University will host its eighth Sandhill Writers Retreat, virtually, on May 15 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., via Zoom. The retreat is for writers of all experience levels, and sessions and workshops will cover a variety of topics, conducted by prominent writers. Topics will include: Fiction, poetry, creative nonfiction, nature writing, writing for veterans, spoken word and performance, publishing, and creating literary community. The complete program showing all classes, teacher biographies, and digital access to a local bookstore carrying titles from the workshop authors is available at SaintLeo.edu/sandhill-writers-retreat. Fees are between $25 and $45, with additional charges for optional consultations or master classes. Those attending the retreat and other members of the public also are invited to register to attend a free reading featuring veteran-author Brian Turner, of Orlando, on May 14 at 7 p.m., also via Zoom.

FEE ADJUSTMENT REVIEW

Pasco-Hernando State College’s District Board of Trustees (DBOT) will meet on May 18 at 6 p.m., at the Spring Hill Campus, to consider the approval of proposed adjusted course-related fees. 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. For details regarding the adjustments, justification for the fees and fee implementation details, visit Policies.phsc.edu/policies-and-procedures/public-disclosure. Many fee adjustments relate to vendor increases for workforce courses, laboratories, and program testing. Some fees may be covered by financial aid, scholarship and grants. Questions or concerns about the proposed fees should be directed to the appropriate dean listed on the web page.

HILLEL OPENS PRESCHOOL

The Forman Early Learning Center, a Hillel-JCC Jewish preschool, will host a grand opening on May 23 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at Hillel Academy, 2020 W. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa. The expansion program includes children ages 1 to 4, to serve the growing need of Jewish early childhood education in northeast Tampa. The new 6,500-square-foot center has 10,000 square feet of playground area, right on the academy’s campus. The Hillel-JCC program is bilingual — Hebrew and English — and is focused on

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.

the growth of each and every child as he or she develops. Children participate in experiential learning, through a Jewish lens, as they transition to elementary school. In addition to outside time, the program includes music, art, cooking and physical education classes, and runs Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. During the grand opening, visitors can check out the classrooms, play on the playground, view the toddler teaching kitchen and meet the educators. All children will receive a special gift, too. Visit HillelAcademyTampa.com/academics/preschool, for information about the early learning center.

IN-PERSON GRADUATIONS

Pasco County Schools will host in-person graduations in school stadiums, unless otherwise noted. This year, each graduate will be allowed to have four guests — two guests to accompany the graduate on the field, and two seated in the bleachers. “We know how important it is to the graduates to walk across the stage and receive their diploma in person. And we know how important it is to have family there to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime experiences,” said Kurt Browning, Pasco superintendent of schools. Here is a complete list of graduation dates and times for the schools in The Laker/Lutz news coverage area: • May 26 at 6 p.m.: Marchman Technical College, at River Ridge High Performing Arts Center • May 27 at 6 p.m.: Pasco eSchool, Idlewild Baptist Church • June 1 at 6 p.m.: Wendell Krinn Technical High School, in the school’s gymnasium • June 2 at 7 p.m.: Cypress Creek High School • June 3 at 9 a.m.: Zephyrhills High School • June 3 at 7 p.m.:Wiregrass Ranch High School • June 4 at 7 p.m.: Land O’ Lakes High School • June 4 at 7 p.m.: Wesley Chapel High School • June 4 at 7:30 p.m.: Pasco High School • June 5 at 9 a.m.: Sunlake High School For more information, email Stephen Hegarty at shegarty@pasco.k12.fl.us.

Students of the Month

Five students from Raymond B. Stewart Middle School were honored as The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce Students of the Month. Students are chosen by the teachers and administration for exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to their individual school, family and community. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, chamber members delivered a certificate and goody bag to each student, in lieu of the ceremony that usually takes place. The students receiving honors were Logan Forbes, sixth grade; Amara Hays, eighth grade; Nyla Nobles, eighth grade; Karsten Osgood, seventh grade; and Elizabeth Wagoner, eighth grade. PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GREATER ZEPHYRHILLS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Amara Hays

Karsten Osgood

Nyla Nobles

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May 12, 2021

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ROAD, from page 1A He doesn’t think enough of the money is devoted to traditional projects, such as roads and bridges ,and said too much is directed toward the Green New Deal and human infrastructure projects. The current proposal, he said,“is a nonstarter for most Republicans.” Thibault said Florida’s transportation solutions must address both existing and future needs. “We currently have approximately 22 million residents and an additional 800 people a day that keep calling Florida home,” he said. It’s no secret that Pasco’s growth is adding congestion to its roads. Transportation improvements, on the other hand, take time to accomplish. Thibault said it typically takes about nine years to get from concept to concrete — which involves everything from planning, to doing environmental studies, to acquiring right of way, to relocating utilities and so on. Improvements, however, are designed to have staying power. “When we begin the efforts on these projects, we usually design them on a 20year horizon,”Thibault said. Besides needing assessment and planning work, there’s also the issue of funding. FDOT District 7 Secretary David Gwynn told those listening: “One of the reasons there are so many projects in Pasco County is because Pasco County has really been a great partner. We work directly with the county commissioners all of the time. “On some of our projects, the county has actually stepped up and put some skin in the game,” said Gwynn, whose district includes five Tampa Bay area counties. “The Overpass Road interchange — that’s primarily funded by the county,” Gwynn said. “The great (State Road) 56 extension that

MULTIFAMILY, from page 1A now we have an opportunity to sit back, let the team do their job and really, really dig in and see what impact these are going to continue to have. Because we can’t just think about today, we have to think about five years from now; we have to think about 10 years from now; we have to think about 20 years from now — the impact these will have on our area,” Moore said. He has repeatedly cautioned the board about potential long-term consequences of overbuilding the multifamily market. He cited concerns about large apartment developments falling into disrepair, as renters move from older complexes into new ones. Board members also voted on a change to the county’s land development code that relates to consideration of multifamily development on land zoned for commercial use.

opened just last year, the county stepped up, did a state Infrastructure Bank Loan to fund part of that project and also helped in acquiring a lot of the right of way from the large property owners along the corridor. David Gwynn “When the county really partners with us, it really allows us to make our money go further, because we can go ahead and leverage some of the local money to match our money. “The State Road 52 realignment, similarly, the county worked hand-in-hand with us with major developers along that route, to make sure right of way was being dedicated for the project,” Gwynn said. Bilirakis said he has worked with Pasco County on the Ridge Road extension project. “I was heavily involved in helping to secure the necessary permits for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to allow Phase 1 of the Ridge Road expansion. It took a lot of years, but we all worked together and we persevered,” he said. Now, Bilirakis, who represents Florida’s 12th congressional district, said he’s advocating for $15 million in federal funding to help pay for the second phase of the extension. He realizes it won’t cover the entire cost, but he noted: “It would be a good start.” The Ridge Road extension is a public safety project that provides an emergency route for residents in West Pasco and North Pinellas counties, Bilirakis said. At the same time, it helps to reduce traffic congestion by providing another east-west route through Pasco County, the congressman said.

The county previously has allowed conditional use requests to use commercial land for multifamily development. Under the change approved on May 4, that consideration is allowed, but only in specific circumstances. Now, conditional uses for multifamily can be considered when: • The development meets the definition for affordable housing • The first floor of the multifamily development is used for retail, office or another nonresidential use • The site is in the county’s West Market area In essence, the change rules out the use of commercial land for market-rate, standalong multifamily developments, except in the West Market area. That change is aimed at preserving commercial land for commercial development, to promote the use of such land for job-generating uses.

County board relaxes COVD-19 rules The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

The Pasco County Commission has changed its rules and is now allowing a limited number of members of the public to attend its meetings in person. The board voted on May 4 to allow up to 18 people from the public to be in the board’s chambers during meetings at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City, and up to 30 members of the public to be in the board room at the government center in New Port Richey. The board adopted that change before Gov. Ron DeSantis lifted COVID-19 requirements imposed by local governments, so it is unclear how the governor’s order will affect the board’s action. In adopting the new rules, the board noted the maximum capacity limitations will be posted on signage outside of the

COVID-19, from page 1A more graduation ceremonies are being held live — not virtually — this year. In addition to some area college graduation celebrations, Pasco public schools will hold in-person events again this year, scaled back as they were last year. Hillsborough public school students also will be celebrating at live events, as well. The Diocese of Saint Petersburg also has announced that the general obligation to attend Sunday Mass will resume on May 22. Bishop Gregory Parkes, who leads the diocese, had granted a dispensation from the obligation as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19. Although Catholic churches have been holding services, with mask requirements and social distancing protocols in place, many parishioners opted instead to watch services remotely. Health experts continue to caution the public to be careful because at the same time COVID-19 restrictions are being relaxed or lifted, the demand for vaccinations has been dropping. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of May 9, 152 million individuals had received at least one dose of vaccine, including 83.6% of those age 65 and older. Of those in that age group, 71.3% were fully vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated, the CDC says you can start doing many things that you had stopped doing because of the pandemic. When choosing safer activities, consider how COVID-19 is spreading in your community, the number of people participating in the activity, and the location. Keep in mind that outdoor visits and activities are safer than indoor activities, and fully vaccinated people can participate in some indoor events safely, without

board rooms and could change over time, based on the most current public health agency recommendations. The amended rules also allow for the county administrator or designee to impose additional rules for use of the county’s board rooms through posted signage, including any required ingress/egress points for each board room. At the time of adoption, the county attorney recommended masks be worn inside the board room. The amended rules continue to allow other public participation options — email, WebEx and public comment kiosk — but also allow the county administrator or chair to close the kiosk, if it is not needed for overflow capacity and if no one shows up at the kiosk within 10 minutes of the morning or afternoon meeting start time.

much risk. The CDC also notes: “While more than eight in 10 people 65 years and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, only around 1 in 3 people ages 18 to 29 have.All age groups currently eligible for the vaccine can benefit from the protection it provides themselves and others, especially as more states are easing prevention measures.” As the pace of vaccination slows, vaccination persuasion campaigns are on the rise. Celebrities, politicians and faith leaders are among those urging others to get vaccinated. Some efforts, as reported nationally, involve people making door-to-door visits to encourage people to get a single shot of Johnson & Johnson, or two shots of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccines. Sites run by Hillsborough County dispense only the Pfizer vaccine, which can be given to individuals 16 years of age and older.Those ages 16 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, a county news release says. Efforts by Pfizer could lower the eligible age for its vaccine to 12, if the Food and Drug Administration approves its request for authorization — which could occur as early as this week, according to national reports. Those seeking vaccinations should know there is no out-of-pocket cost to be vaccinated and no prescription or doctor’s note is required, a Hillsborough County news release says. With demand continuing to decline at the large public COVID-19 vaccination sites, Hillsborough County Emergency Management is reassessing distribution strategies and developing other options for residents to get vaccinated. Companies, community organizations, and faith-based organizations interested in an on-site targeted vaccine event are encouraged to call 888-513-6321, or email vaccineinfo@hillsboroughcounty.org.

Environmental committee appointments approved The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

The Pasco County Commission has approved the following reappointments to the county’s Environmental Lands Acquisition Committee: • A one-year reappointment of Patty Fesmire • A two-year reappointment of Janie Howie

• A three-year reappointment of Josh McCart • A three-year reappointment of Mona Neville The committee consists of 11 volunteer members, according to background materials in the board’s agenda packet. Five members shall have, at a minimum, a bachelor’s degree in the natural and/or envi-

Yo our hearing is part p of who you ar a e.

ronmental sciences.These five members also shall comprise the Scientific Subcommittee. Four other members shall have expertise in at least one of the following fields: real estate, business, or finance. One member shall have expertise in governmental affairs (with an emphasis in funding sources). One member shall be a layperson with interest in the land acquisition program.

The committee cannot have more than three members who do not live in Pasco County.Another committee vacancy will occur soon, as Mac Davis has opted not to seek reappointment. That leaves a position open for someone with expertise in real estate, business, and/or finance, which the Natural Resources Division intends to fill soon.

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May 12, 2021

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Local talent Tre’ McKitty selected in NFL Draft By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

esley Chapel native Tre’ McKitty soon will live out his lifelong dream of becoming a professional football player in the National Football League (NFL). The local athlete was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the third round with the 97th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, on April 30 in Cleveland, Ohio. The pick occurred on the second day of the three-day, seven-round event broadcast live on national television and radio. The 22-year-old McKitty is expected to sign a four-year contract in the neighborhood of $4.8 million with an $840,000 signing bonus, based on projections from Spotrac, the largest online sports team and player contract resource. McKitty grew up playing youth football for the Land O’ Lakes-based South Pasco Predators (while attending Pine View Middle School), and played varsity football and basketball his freshman year at Wesley Chapel High School. From there, McKitty transferred to Tampa Catholic High School and Bradenton’s IMG Academy, where he established himself as one of the nation’s top tight end prospects in the 2017 recruiting class, with over 30 NCAA Division I FBS scholarship offers. The 6-foot-4, 246-pound McKitty began his college career Florida State University (FSU), where he caught 50 balls for 520 yards and two touchdowns from 2017 to 2019. He did all that for a Seminoles program in turmoil, transitioning through three different head coaches (Jimbo Fisher, Willie Taggart and Mike Norvell) while on campus. McKitty transferred to the University of Georgia for the 2020 campaign— about a month after Norvell was named FSU head coach in December 2019 — as a graduate student eligible to play football immediately after earning a degree in criminology. An offseason knee injury kept him sidelined for the Bulldogs until mid-October. He caught six passes for 108 yards and a touchdown in just four games for his new team, which went 8-2 and won the Peach Bowl.

THIS PLAYER IS ABLE TO ADAPT

All told, McKitty had to be a quick study throughout his entire college career, playing for four different offensive coordinators — forcing him to get acclimated to varying systems, schemes, terminology, and coaching personalities and styles. McKitty believes those experiences will serve him well in the pro ranks, which he detailed in an April 30 post-draft Zoom media conference call. “I think it does nothing but help me,” he said. “Having to pick up something new every year, I think my ability to learn is quick, so I think that will help me a lot. I definitely think that my experience as far as changing offensive coordinators and staffs is going to help me in the future.” McKitty was noticeably amped and emotional throughout the virtual media call, as reporters peppered him with questions. “It’s crazy,” he said of being drafted.“Once my phone rang, my heart started beating right away.” When asked to describe his skill sets, McKitty observed:“Hard worker. Guy that’s going to get it done all three downs. I feel like I’m an all-around tight end.” Besides pass-catching abilities evident in his statistics, McKitty is regarded for doing dirty work as an in-line run-blocking tight end. It’s an area of the game he takes particular pride in. McKitty put it like this:“Blocking, 80% of it is ‘want to,’ so I think I have that dog in me

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SAINT LEO SOFTBALL HITS RECORD Saint Leo University fifth-year senior infielder Kacie Kelly recently set the Lions softball program’s all-time career hits record — when she picked up her 270th career hit (and counting) on a bunt single on April 30 in a road game against Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale.

COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

McKitty (No. 87) dives for the end zone during a Nov. 28 game against South Carolina.

Bucky Brooks, NFL.com: “The ultra-athletic pass-catcher didn’t put up big numbers as a collegian, but his physical tools could make him a key contributor at the next level. McKitty’s upside and potential makes him a solid value pick for the Chargers.” Charlie Campbell, WalterFootball.com: “With his size, speed and athleticism, McKitty has the potential to develop into a starting three-down tight end in the NFL.”

FILE

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Wesley Chapel native Tre’ McKitty played the 2020 season at the University of Georgia, after transferring from Florida State University. Despite an offseason knee injury, his size, pass-catching and blocking abilities caught the attention of NFL scouts and teams.

McKitty was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the third round (97th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. The three-day, sevenround event was held in Cleveland, Ohio and broadcast live on national television and radio.

to want to go and put somebody on their back, and then also, it comes down to technique. I have to continue to grow in that, but I think it’s there, and I’m definitely going to improve on that, as well.” McKitty’s strong blocking skills are something Chargers general manager Tom Telesco also emphasized during a virtual post-draft media conference. “One of the best things he does is really block at the line of scrimmage,”Telesco said during the media session. “Very good size, strength, power, good feet to stay on blocks, and he likes to do it, and you can tell. And, he comes from more of a pro-style offense at Georgia, so he’s had to do it. “That position’s very hard to find in college nowadays — the guys that do it and do it well — and it’s also a big part of our offense moving forward here, is having a tight end that can get on the line of scrimmage and block.” Telesco acknowledged McKitty wasn’t frequently used in Georgia’s passing game as a receiver “so there’s still some things to work with and develop.” But, the Chargers lead decisionmaker feels McKitty has the tools to succeed in that arena because “he does have some athletic ability to get out in space and run.” Added Telesco: “He runs well, he’s smooth. His strength, his size, his frame is going to help us in that position group right now.” Chargers first-year head coach Brandon Staley echoed many of the general manager’s comments about McKitty during post-draft media interviews. The coach also pointed out the high-level of competition McKitty faced throughout the Atlantic Coast Conference and Southeastern Conference, as well as strong practices and workouts in the Senior Bowl, a

post-season college football all-star game that showcases the best NFL Draft prospects. “We just felt like we were getting a really good evaluation of the guy and felt like you could really see a projection to a guy that can play that position in the NFL,” Staley said.“We just felt really good about him. … He’s a big guy, so adding size to our offense, that was a big goal.” McKitty is eager to get started. “I can’t wait to get to get out to L.A., just can’t wait to be in the city,” he said, also thanking the Chargers for the opportunity.“I want to come in and learn, and do whatever I can to help this team win.” McKitty will join a busy Chargers position group as one of six rostered tight ends — which also includes 13-year NFL vet and two-time Pro Bowler Jared Cook. The established player is someone the soon-to-be rookie hopes to learn from in training camp and beyond. “I’ve been watching him the last few years, that’s one of the tight ends I try to watch film on, so it’s going to be an awesome opportunity and I can’t wait to work with him,” McKitty said.

The 5-foot-3 left-handed hitter had started the day off tied for first in program history with Devyne Duncan (2002-2005) with 269 hits. Kelly has since finished the regular season with 273 career hits, with an opportunity to add on during postseason play. A Jacksonville native, Kelly prepped at Callahan’s West Nassau High School before enrolling in Saint Leo.

HCC ATHLETIC DIRECTOR EARNS COACH OF THE YEAR HONOR

Sarah Summerfield, Hillsborough Community College (HCC) Athletic Director and tennis head coach, was selected as the

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May 12, 2021

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Drae Harris, TheDraftNetwork.com: “Tre’ McKitty aligned as the ‘move tight end’ for the Bulldogs offense. He has good athleticism, as evidenced by his good body control and agility. In the run game, he is willing to stick his face in the trenches and block. He will not be a vertical mover, nor will he create a new line of scrimmage, but he has adequate blocking ability. He is dynamic as a pass-catcher due to his outstanding ‘run after catch ability.’ He had a knee scope just before the start of the season and it is unknown how healthy he was playing in 2020.” Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: “Pass-catching tight end who can be asked to do some minor positional blocking up front, but he’s better as a move blocker. McKitty’s play speed doesn’t always match his real speed, which is a problem in terms of his separation and ball tracking. He’s better up the seam and on the move than he is getting in and out of breaks. If he can get stronger and learn to play faster as a pass-catcher, he might have a chance as a developmental TE3.” Steve Muench, ESPN.com: “McKitty shows the ability to create separation and find soft spots in zone coverage. He displays strong hands in traffic and does a good job of plucking the ball away from his frame. He was underutilized during his college career, but he showcased his higher ceiling at the Senior Bowl.”

ducing NFL-level talent. McKitty was one of 37 players from Florida high schools selected in this year’s draft of 259 players, more than any other state for the third time in four years. Texas preps produced 33 players selected in the draft, followed by Georgia (21), California (19), Louisiana (13) and North Carolina (10) as the only other states that had at least 10 players selected, respectively.

Florida College System Activities Association (FCSAA) State/National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Region 8 Women’s Coach of the Year. Under Summerfield and assistant coach Chris Nyholm, the Lady Hawks completed an undefeated season 6-0 and became the NJCAA Region 8 State Champions last month at Sanlando Park, Orlando. Summerfield received her award following the title run. “I am honored to be selected as this year’s FCSAA Coach of the Year, representing Hillsborough Community College at the state level,” Summerfield said, in a release. “Coaching this team of hard-working women has been an honor and very rewarding.”

Summerfield played at Division I University of Wyoming, where she earned first-team All-Mountain West Conference honors in 2007 and 2009. She began her coaching career as head women’s tennis coach at Saint Leo University, leading that program to a No. 3 national ranking and No. 2 in the Sunshine State Conference. Summerfield went on become an assistant coach at Colgate University for both the men’s and women’s tennis teams before joining HCC in 2017. The team has since advanced to Mesa, Arizona, for the National Championship, which began May 1.

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Daniel Popper, The Athletic: “The Chargers need some run-blocking juice in the tight end room, and McKitty will provide that. He is fluid and athletic at 6-foot-4, 246 pounds with the traits to develop into a solid pass-catching option, as well.”

McKitty represents the highest draftee from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area since Wharton High School/University of Florida cornerback Vernon Hargreaves III was picked by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round (11th overall) in the 2016 NFL Draft. The last local athlete drafted was Gaither High School/Penn State University defensive back Amani Oruwarie, who was taken in the fifth round (146th overall) of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. The draft otherwise showed the Sunshine State is king when it comes to pro-

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State road projects in Pasco approach $290 million By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

uring a recent transportation Zoom briefing with the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, Kevin Thibault, secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation, provided an overview of projects that are in various stages of progress in Pasco County. Here’s a recap of information from his PowerPoint presentation and of his comments, project by project. Kevin Thibault

STATE ROAD 54 WIDENING, FROM CURLEY ROAD TO MORRIS BRIDGE ROAD Project description: State Road 54 is being widened from two lanes to four lanes, with a median. Project cost: $42.5 million Estimated completion: Late 2021

DIVERGING DIAMOND, AT STATE ROAD 56 Project description: Converts from a standard diamond interchange to a diverging diamond interchange. • Ongoing work is occurring on all four quadrants of the interchange. • The traffic pattern shift will occur this fall. Project cost: $33 million Estimated completion: Late 2021 Thibault’s comments: “The DDI (Diverging Diamond Interchange) was chosen for this interchange to increase safety and capacity, through an increased number of lanes; improving pedestrian facilities; more efficient signal timings; and, reducing vehicle conflicts. “Work is occurring on all four quadrants, rebuilding the interchange ramps. “Work is taking place in the median of the existing State Road 56 bridge over Interstate 75. “Various traffic shifts are taking place and will continue to take place on State Road 56, on both sides of Interstate 75, as the contractor builds the improvements necessary to make the conversion to the diverging diamond configuration. “Traffic is anticipated to be switched to the new diverging diamond pattern in the fall of 2021. “The current estimated completion date is later this year. “As many of you know, this project has overcome some errors and periods of insufficient resources by the contracting team, but milestones have been met related to the project completion, to ensure that sufficient progress is being made. “The department understands that this is an important corridor in Pasco County and will continue our efforts to guide the contractor to complete the project, as quickly as possible.”

U.S. 41, NORTH OF CONNERTON Project description: Widening of U.S. 41, from north of Connerton to State Road 52, widens U.S. 41 into a four-lane divided highway. Project cost: $16.8 million Estimated completion: February 2023 Thibault’s comments: “The project clearing is almost completed. “Utility relocation and erosion control measures are underway. “The drainage and excavation activities are set to begin shortly. “Again, currently ahead of the schedule posted on the project website.”

WIDENING AND NEW ALIGNMENT OF STATE ROAD 52 Project description:Widens State Road 52 to a four-lane divided highway and realigns the corridor from Uradco Place to west of Fort King Road. • Miles of new roadway have been constructed. • A lane reduction recently has been put in place along eastbound State Road 52, from I-75 to allow for construction at the west end of the project. Project cost: $81.4 million Estimated completion: August 2023

”

COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Thibault’s comments: “Widening of State Road 54, as shown here in this aerial from Curley Road to Morris Bridge Road, will widen the roadway from two lanes to a four-lane highway, with a median. Long stretches of new roadway are currently in use, with bi-directional traffic shifting either to the future eastbound or westbound pavement. Drainage, roadway and utility construction continues throughout the project area. “Additional traffic switches will be coming, as new roadway segments are completed. “In addition, a sidewalk will be built on the north side of the road, and a 10-footwide, multi-use trail will be built on the south side.”

Thibault’s comments: “It is progressing well and is slightly ahead of schedule.”

NEW INTERSTATE-75 INTERCHANGE AT OVERPASS ROAD Project description: Existing bridge at Overpass Road was removed. Construction has begun on a new bridge. • Overpass Road will be widened from two lanes to four lanes, between Interstate 75 and Old Pasco Road. It will be widened to six lanes, from I-75 to Boyette Road. Project cost: $64 million for this designbuild project Estimated completion: November 2022 Thibault’s comments: “This designbuild project is to construct a new interchange approximately 3 ½ miles, south of State Road 52 in Pasco County.

“Overpass Road is closed, between Boyette and Old Pasco roads. It’s scheduled to reopen in February of 2022. “Blair Drive has been realigned to connect with Old Pasco Road. McKendry Road has been realigned to connect with Boyette. “The entrance to Wesley Chapel District Park from Overpass Road has been permanently closed. “The entrance ramp construction has begun on all four quadrants. “The project is progressing well. “The new diamond interchange will include a flyover ramp for westbound Overpass Road access onto southbound I-75.

STATE ROAD 52, NEAR U.S. 41 Project description: Widening of State Road 52, from the Suncoast Parkway to east of U.S. 41. Widening State Road 52 to a six-lane divided highway; includes the widening of U.S. 41 approaching State Road 52, in each direction. • Project also consists of building stormwater ponds, installing drainage pipes, building roadway base and relocating utilities. Project cost: $49.7 million Thibault’s comments: “This is close to a $50 million project and the estimated completion is February of 2023, which is currently ahead of schedule.”

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Opte’mus Prime has many skills This is Opte'mus Prime, formerly known as Grimm. Opte'mus was adopted from the Tampa Bay Humane Society 2 1/2 years ago. He is 6 years old and is a mix of many breeds. He loves his naps in comfy places under the covers (of course), as well as long walks and car rides. Recently, he learned to garden. Opte'mus has excellent skills as a digger. Also, he stays on watch to secure the garden's perimeter from lizards. He keeps his family company when they need it the most, in his own special way. Opte’mus is a good boy, and lives with Paula Jeffferson and family in Zephyrhills.

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Newest K9 additions The Pasco Sheriff’s Office has two new additions to its K9 crew — bloodhound puppies named Hemi and Shelby. Both Hemi and Shelby are 3-monthold littermates that were born in Kentucky. In about 10 months, this pair will help locate missing people, including those who have wandered from home, as single-purpose tracking K9s, according to a news release. Tracking missing persons is one of the most frequent calls for K9s in Pasco County. While many K9s are trained to track those who are missing, bloodhounds

have heightened abilities and can track after significant delays. The hounds also can decipher between scents of multiple people, giving them the ability to track through a crowd. These specialty K9s will be an invaluable asset in recovering missing citizens. In addition to Hemi and Shelby, the sheriff’s office currently has two bloodhounds at the agency – K9 Buster and K9 Knox. All funds for K9s are donated by community members. Ferman of New Port Richey made the donation for K9 Hemi and K9 Shelby.

PET PAWS DO IT ‘FUR’ LOVE

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will feature CARES (Community Aging & Retirement Services) as its charitable organization for the month of May. This month’s campaign is “Do it Fur Love!” All proceeds from the promotion will benefit CARES and its Pet Project, a program to help the elderly take care of their pets. Donations will be used to supply pet

food, pet care products and more, to assist the elderly in keeping their pets wellcared for. For information, about the Pet Project, call Melissa Mathe at 727-862-9291, or visit CARESFl.org. For more about the charitable programs through the tax collector’s office, call Greg Giordano at 727-847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com. Donations can be mailed to Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526-0276.

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(844) 276-8964 Snowball stands out in a crowd Snowball is a tall 2 year old, and has a beautiful white coat and expressive ears. Once he fills out (he's only about 60 pounds), he will be even more gorgeous. Snowball is smart, eager to please, and knows to sit, lie down and shake. He also takes treats gently. Snowball has a silly side and loves to play in the yard. He is currently working on some behaviors. He would benefit from a home where he can get lots of exercise and mental stimulation, and maybe even have a job to do. If you're up for the challenge, make an appointment to meet Snowball.

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If you would like to adopt Peg or Snowball, be sure to visit Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m. All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net.

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May 12, 2021

Pasco County Commissioner addresses measured growth By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore is well aware of the influx of countless new residents to the area he oversees. After all, Moore was quick to acknowledge Pasco County is one of the fastest-growing in the state, if not the entire nation, during his speaking engagement last month for the East Pasco Networking Group. “If you drive down any road, you can probably tell that we are (rapidly growing) now,” Moore said, during the April 27 meeting at IHOP in Dade City. “People want to come to Pasco County.” Besides what Moore considers to be “a happening place,” the elected official posited the following for why the county is experiencing such rapid growth:“I think we do a good job of keeping our taxes low and offering the same amount of services of the surrounding counties, if not more services that the surrounding counties offer, and I think we’ll continue to be able to do that.” Moore — a small businesses owner who moved to Pasco in 2007 — further added that the county has emphasized public safety over the years, with support and

resources for the county’s fire rescue and sheriff’s office,“and making sure those people were staying here, and not leaving.” Moore, who represents District 2, explained, “When I first came here, people were leaving Pasco County to go work other places. Now, people from Hillsborough, Pinellas and those areas want to come to Pasco County. It’s just a fact. It’s awesome to see all these people that at one time left are saying,‘Wow, we need to come back,’ or are telling their friends,‘You need to go work in Pasco County,’ and that’s what we’re seeing on that side.” Moore noted the county’s fiscal year 2020 permit numbers “skyrocketed,” despite the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic. Residential permits were up 32% from fiscal year 2019, while commercial permits increased 16.7% compared to 2019, he said during the meeting. Moreover, the commissioner noted Pasco processed more single-family home permits than Hillsborough during the final quarter of 2020. “It goes to show you, people like what’s happening in Pasco County and want to come to Pasco County.And not only do they want to move here, but they want to move their businesses here,” he said.

Continuing on the topic of growth, at least one area of concern is the number of apartment complexes popping up throughout the county, particularly in Moore’s district spanning much of central Pasco and Wesley Chapel, and generally bordering the Hillsborough County line south, U.S. 41 westbound, State Road 52 northbound and all the way east to U.S. 301. Moore has been vociferous during commission meetings about enacting a temporary moratorium on apartments in a portion of his district until county officials can tally the number of entitlements currently on the books. “There’s nothing wrong with apartments,” Moore said,“but when you have an oversaturation of one product, it can lead to bad things down the road. “We saw it happen not only with Hillsborough County, but we did a lot of research on areas across the nation, and it really comes to spot zoning these apartments on every corner, and what we’re doing is actually taking away valuable land that could be office/commercial and job creating sites, especially in a hot market like this. If you don’t have the land available that’s conducive to having those products there, they’re not going to come.”

Moore added he disagrees with those in the apartment development industry who claim the county continually needs more complexes to satisfy the area’s growth, because “the land’s already entitled to allow it to happen,” he said. Of further concern is the possible blight of such complexes decades into the future, which could bring down surrounding property values and increase crime rates, Moore said. Moore put it like this:“We have to be very conscious and careful going forward, of, ‘How much of that one product do we actually have?’ because 10 years down the road, now it’s all bright, shiny and new, but what about the ones that have been here 20 years? Who’s going to take care of those? Who’s going to live in those? Are they going to become dilapidated?” Though all sorts of residential and commercial development is in the pipeline, the local decisionmaker pointed out roughly 22% of county land is protected through the Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program (ELAMP). ELAMP — created in July 2004 by county referendum — is responsible for purchasing Continued on page 5B

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environmentally sensitive lands throughout the county by either fee title or less-than-fee methods; funding is provided through a portion of the Penny For Pasco surtax. “A lot of people don’t realize that, and that’s a big portion of the county, and it’s actually growing because there are still more funds available to do that,” Moore said. “There’s land protected in Pasco, from east to west, north to south, that will never be built on, and will be there 100 years down the road for our great grandkids and great, great grandkids to enjoy. “Some are passive park areas, obviously, and the public gets to typically have use of

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them, but it’s just land that’ll always be there and always be protected.” ELAMP objectives, according to the county’s website, include the following: • Protect natural communities, including uplands and wetlands • Connect natural linkages • Conserve viable populations of native plants and animals • Protect habitat for listed species • Protect water resources and wetland systems • Protect unique natural resources • Enhance resource-based recreational opportunities • Expand environmental education opportunities

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KEVIN WEISS

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Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore was a featured guest speaker at last month’s East Pasco Networking Group meeting at IHOP in Dade City. He addressed a number of countywide issues during his visit.

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Health

Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com

HOSPITAL RECOGNIZED FOR 40 YEARS OF SERVICE

A resolution by the Board of County Commissioners of Pasco County congratulated Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point on its 40 years of service to Pasco County citizens and its transition to an award-winning medical center. Bayonet Point-Hudson Hospital opened its doors in 1981, in a small facility serving the northwest Pasco community of less than 25,000 people. The medical center adopted a new name in 1997, transforming to Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.The facility is connected to the nation’s largest healthcare system, HCA Healthcare. Bayonet Point also received the 2021 Patient Safety Excellence Award for a fourthconsecutive year. The award recognizes a hospital’s excellence in safeguarding patients from serious, potentially preventable complications during their hospital stay. The hospital is the only Level II Trauma center serving Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. And, its graduate medical education program has earned Bayonet Point a Statutory Teaching Hospital designation. For more on the hospital’s achievements, visit BayonetPointHospital.com/about/newsroom.

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May the 4th be with you! The force was strong at AdventHealth Tampa, as a Stormtrooper stopped by to pay a visit to the hospital’s team to celebrate May 4.

Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas. Trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions through one-on-one counseling. The services are free, unbiased and confidential. Call 800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111. These upcoming outreach events are scheduled, via Zoom: • May 17 at noon: Medicare Long Term Care • May 19 at 10 a.m.: Medicare Part C Advantage Plans • May 19 at noon: Medicare Basics • May 24 at noon: Medicare Financial Assistance • May 26 at 10 a.m.: Medicare Part C Advantage Plans • May 26 at noon: Medicare Basics For information and how to register, contact Geralyn Fortney at 727-570-9696, ext. 234 or Geralyn.Fortney@aaapp.org.

AdventHealth Mobile Mammography, formerly Tampa Bay Mobile Mammography, provides a quick, convenient way to get a mammogram, which is key to detecting breast cancer early. A physician’s prescription is required for ages 40 and younger; no prescription is needed for those older than 40. Upcoming mobile unit stops in May include: • May 20, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Seven Oaks Community, 2910 Sports Core Circle, Wesley Chapel • May 20, noon to 3 p.m.: Dade City Chamber of Commerce, 14112 Eighth St., Dade City • May 27, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Zephyrhills Lions Club, 5827 Dean Dairy Road, Zephyrhills • May 27, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.: The Grove Business Expo, 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel For questions, call 813-601-1925. To schedule an appointment or for other mobile unit stops, visit AdventHealthMobileMammography.com, and select “Schedule Appointment” and then “Corporate.”

AdventHealth Zephyrhills will host “Family and Friends: Infant CPR and Choking” on May 24 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., via Zoom. This American Heart Association class is an orientation to both emergencies, and participants can learn how to give a baby CPR or rescue a baby from a choking hazard. The class is free. Reservations are required. Visit AdventHealth.com/hospital/adventhealth-zephyrhills, and click on “Events.”

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

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May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) helps to fight the stigma of mental illness, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies that support people with mental illness and their families. This year, NAMI will continue to amplify the message of “You Are Not Alone,” and will use the time to focus on the healing value of connecting in safe ways, prioritizing mental health and acknowledging that it is OK to not be OK. The organization will use its own blog, personal stories, videos, digital toolkits, social media engagements and national events to share the vision where anyone affected by mental illness can get the appropriate support and quality of care to live healthy, fulfilling lives. For information and a list of events, visit NAMI.org/calendar.

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The Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers has opened a new office at 37522 Meridian Ave., in Dade City. The center provides pregnancy tests, ultrasounds by appointment, pregnancy options counseling, pregnancy and parenting classes, essential baby items, and community resources and referrals. All services are free, and are provided in English and in Spanish. For information, call 352-534-5003.

GULFSIDE NEEDS VOLUNTEERS

The Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppe Team is looking for volunteers ages 15 and older for its Dade City, Lutz and Zephyrhills stores. Volunteer duties include greeting and assisting customers, sorting and pricing items, and accepting donated items. The proceeds from each of the Gulfside shops directly support its patient care costs and the operation of the Gulfside Centers for Hospice Care. For information, visit Gulfside.org/thriftshoppes.

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Pasco EDC touts diversified economy, startups By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

As Pasco County businesses and individuals look to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is continuing to provide wideranging resources and guidance. Pasco EDC representatives Mike Bishop and Dan Mitchell were on hand during a Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting last month at Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club, to discuss the group’s various opportunities and initiatives. The Pasco EDC is a private, 501c3 nonprofit organization that promotes countywide economic development, and is partnered and funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County.The organization formed in 1987. “It’s all about jobs,” Bishop, the organization’s director of stakeholder engagement, said during the April 20 meeting. “We are in the business of attracting these companies to provide jobs for our county residents.” Pasco EDC’s six target industries encompass the following: manufacturing; aerospace, aviation, and defense; business and professional services; information technology; life sciences and medical technology; and, logistics and distribution. Noticeable strides are being made in the life sciences and medical technology tract, in particular. Bishop highlighted Moffitt Cancer Center’s expansion near the intersection of Suncoast Parkway and Ridge Road Extension in Pasco. The multiphase campus ultimately is expected to comprise of an estimated 1.4 million square feet and some 14,000 jobs over the next 20 years, featuring research labs, offices, light industrial/manufacturing capabilities, and conference space. The facility also is anticipated to attract other surrounding medical-oriented biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies. Said Bishop:“That’ll be the gift that keeps on giving.” Bishop told the breakfast crowd that the manufacturing sector “is a big one for us,” given its contributions to the county’s tax roll. Exporting is another area the Pasco EDC is “looking at getting back up and running,” Bishop said, noting “that’s something that COVID impacted pretty dramatically.” Bishop described workforce connections as a point of emphasis now, as companies face the challenge of finding talented, skilled employees. Pasco EDC has worked to help fill that gap, he said, partnering with institutions including Pasco-Hernando State College and Saint Leo University to facilitate internships and other opportunities, to link employers and career seekers. Meanwhile, Mitchell emphasized the importance of the county fostering a diversified economy to help “rise all boats.” Many economic development councils across the country have “a huge focus” on recruiting businesses to their respective areas.

But, Mitchell said:“Just recruiting $80,000 per year jobs doesn’t give everybody a job, so we believe in stimulating a diversified economy.” For instance, residents who are in recovery from substance addiction need various employment opportunities. Pasco EDC does more than recruit companies. It also helps existing industry develop and grow. The organization’s SMARTstart program, led by Mitchell, offers resources and tools for established small businesses and also helps entrepreneurs who are looking to launch a business. SMARTstart offers mentorship opportunities, educational workshops and roundtables, microloan funding, workspace incubators and other tools. Some 1,500 business owners participated in at least one of its programs last year, Mitchell said. At its core, SMARTstart seeks to resolve whatever is holding back would-be business owners. “We’ve all been there, something’s holding you back,” Mitchell said, noting the obstacles can include insufficient funding, a lack of workspace, or a need for education or guidance. Mitchell touched on specific opportunities available through SMARTstart. For example, the organization has opened its microloan eligibility requirements due to the COVID-19 pandemic, for businesses looking to grow, expand, or pivot operations. Loans are available for up to $50,000 for applying businesses that are otherwise unbankable; Pasco EDC’s revolving microloan fund has about $600,000 available. The loans can’t be used for real estate, short-term needs or to pay off debt, but can be used for improvements, working capital and so on. “It really needs to be used to grow new business,” he explained. Another signature SMARTstart operation is a nine-week bootcamp — CO.STARTERS — which seeks to equip seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships and tools needed to turn ideas into action, and turn a passion into a sustainable and thriving endeavor. The CO.STARTERS operation, Mitchell explained,“helps people take a nascent idea and turn it into a business model, and really put it on a structure, and by the end of that nine weeks, they’ve got a little rolodex with several guest speakers that have come out, and they’re ready and prepared to launch their business.” By the same token, Mitchell acknowledged people sometimes — upon finishing the nineweek program — decide they’re better off not turning their original idea or concept into a full-blown business, where they might have to invest their savings or resign from their current job. To learn more about special events, available training and other Pasco EDC resources, visit PascoEDC.com, call 813-926-0827.

Deadline soon for advisory committee applicants The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

Pasco County is seeking 13 people to serve as policy advisors on the new Northeast Pasco Rural Advisory Committee, according to a county news release. The board is encouraging property owners, business owners and land use attorneys to apply. Committee members will evaluate policies and regulations related to the Northeast Pasco Rural Protection Overlay District, and will recommend commercial development design standards and guidelines to the Pasco County Commission. The deadline for application is May 14. The advisory committee members must either: • Be a Northeast Pasco County rural

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Artic W Woolf 5th Wheel

3- slides, rear kitchen, electric jacks, awning, leathher sofa and theater seating, queen bed, TVs. Was $455,995

1- slide, sleeps-10, AM M/FM Bluetooth, electric awning and jacks, ﬁreeplace. MSRP $29,995 $

Rear a separated living room, 4-slides, 4 door refrigerator, everything e works! NO LEAKS!! Was $$24,995

2- slides, slide toppers, rear living room, ﬁreplace, queen bedroom, Island kitchen. Was $44,994 $

Now $29,63 37

Now w $21,941

Now $15,781

Now $33,454 $

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS 10B

May 12, 2021