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Choices abound for holiday fun
By Brian Fernandes bfernandes@lakerlutznews.com
The holidays are a traditional time for friends and families to gather, and to seek out ways to enjoy the lights, sounds and treats of the season. If you’re looking to have some old-fashioned fun, to be inspired, or relax, there’s likely an option in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area to suit your fancy. Here’s a listing of some of your options.
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Traditions on the Green holiday concert WHEN: Dec. 7 from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WHERE: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes COST: Free DETAILS: Guests can enjoy live holiday performances from students of Land O’ Lakes High School, Pineview Middle School, Sanders Elementary, Lake Myrtle Elementary and Pineview Dance. INFO: Call (813) 996-3011.
Pancakes, PJ’s and Putt-Putt WHEN: Dec. 7 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. WHERE: Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes COST: $12 for age 13 and up; $10 for ages 4 to 12; $43 for family four pack (two adults, two kids); free for those age 3 and under DETAILS: Enjoy a pancake breakfast while in pajamas. The event also will offer miniature golf, photos with Santa and kids’ activities.
See HOLIDAY, page 19A
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Helping families at Thanksgiving Michelle Patel, of Land O’ Lakes, is a mom on a mission. She is the founder of the nonprofit organization, Kids Helping Kids Pasco County Inc. For several years, she and her 8-year-old son, Kyran, packaged meals for a few food insecure families that they encountered online or in their neighborhood. A year ago, Patel decided to share her vision on Facebook, in hopes of helping more families in need at Thanksgiving. She was astonished at the community’s overwhelming response, which this year led to helping 89 families — totaling 451 people — across Pasco County. In addition to the Thanksgiving food drive, the organization also hosts a Christmas toy and clothing drive. Above, Josh Zappe, of Land O’ Lakes, left, and his 13-year-old daughter, Jamie, sort through donated food items, for baskets for Dade City families. After they finish helping at the park, they will be delivering baskets to New Port Richey families.
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Michelle Patel, the founder of Kids Helping Kids Pasco County Inc., left, and her partner Dara Dimeler watch over what they call the ‘organized chaos’ of the Thanksgiving food drive last weekend at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park. The women were part of a contingent of 82 volunteers who organized, packaged and delivered food baskets to 89 families throughout Pasco County.
Jen Abreut, of Land O’ Lakes, right, watches carefully as her 9year-old daughter, Layla, picks up a heavy bird. Layla’s older brother, 10-year-old Brody, looks on. The Abreuts were heading out the door, on their way to deliver the turkeys and food baskets to four families in New Port Richey.
A ‘peanut’ roundabout Pasco School Board adopts new school on Van Dyke Road? boundaries
By Brian Fernandes
bfernandes@lakerlutznews.com
Hillsborough County is proposing a $40 million project to ease traffic congestion on Van Dyke Road in Lutz. The project is expected to begin construction in late 2022, and be completed by late 2024. Now in its planning phase, the proposed project calls for widening Van Dyke Road from two lanes to four lanes, in a 2-mile stretch from Whirley Road to the Suncoast Parkway. The plan also implements a divided median, as well as providing easier intersection turns for motorists. To achieve the easier turns, the county plans to construct three new roundabouts on Van Dyke. The roundabouts would make it easier to
get off Van Dyke Road, and would keep the traffic flow on Van Dyke moving at a steady pace. Chris Wilkerson, senior media relations strategist for Hillsborough County, said the roundabouts would “dramatically reduce fatalities” for motorists turning off of Van Dyke Road. Two roundabouts would be placed at Van Dyke Road’s intersections with Lake Reflections Boulevard and Darby Lane, respectively. Darby Lane, connecting with Van Dyke Road’s south end, turns into Lake Reflections Boulevard, on the road’s north end. A third roundabout would be built at the intersection with the Grace Family Church entrance. See PEANUT, page 19A
By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com
The Pasco County School Board unanimously approved school rezonings for the 2020-2021 school year — primarily affecting students living in the Seven Oaks subdivision in Wesley Chapel. Board members approved the boundary shifts that are aimed to relieve crowding at Wiregrass Ranch High School and John Long Middle School, and to fill seats available at Cypress Creek High School and the new Cypress Creek Middle School, which is expected to open next fall. The boundary shift does not apply to Wiregrass Ranch students, living within the See BOUNDARIES, page 19A
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COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO
A shift in leadership The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club incoming president, Annette Bellingar, right, sports a flamingo T-shirt, to help celebrate and honor Karin D’Amico, the club’s outgoing president, during a flamingo-themed high tea. D’Amico received a diamond dachshund pendant by the club, commemorating her love of the breed and her work with dachshund rescue.
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COURTESY OF HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
Be a Santa to a senior ornament, buy the requested gift and return it to the store with the ornament attached. There’s no need to worry about wrapping — community volunteers and program partners will wrap and deliver the gifts to local seniors in time for the holidays. Be a Santa to a Senior receives support from local businesses, nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community. The Home Instead Senior Care office serving East Pasco County has partnered with businesses and organizations to help with gift collection and distribution. Be a Santa to a Senior trees can be found at these locations: • Bealls Outlet, 21701 Village Lakes Shopping Center Drive, Land O’ Lakes • Bealls Outlet, 5351 Village Market, Wesley Chapel • Bon Worth Women’s Clothing, 7409 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills • Pasco County Tax Collector - Dade City, 14236 Sixth St., No. 100, in Dade City • Pasco County Tax Collector - Land O’ Lakes, 4135 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O Lakes • Pasco County Tax Collector - Wesley Chapel/Lutz, 4610 Pet Lane, No. 101, in Lutz • Sweet Darling Quilts, 26240 Wesley Chapel Blvd., Lutz For more information about the program, visit BeASantaToASenior.com, or call (813) 991-7524.
The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report
The holiday season is a time of gatherings, giving and good cheer. But, it’s also a time when seniors who live alone can be forgotten. To help prevent that, Home Instead Senior Care serving East Pasco County is once again offering the community a chance to spread joy to local seniors through its Be a Santa to a Senior program, according to a news release. The program invites members of the community to give a senior a gift. Since the program’s inception in 2003, the Be a Santa to a Senior program has mobilized more than 60,000 volunteers, provided approximately 1.2 million gifts and brightened the season for more than 700,000 deserving seniors nationwide, the news release says. “The Be a Santa to a Senior program is all about including seniors in the joy of the holiday season,” Michele Bonneville, owner of the Home Instead Senior Care office in Wesley Chapel, said in the release. “A simple gift shows them they are a loved and vital member of our community.” To help, visit a participating location and look for the Be a Santa to a Senior tree on display from Nov. 5 to Dec. 10. Each tree will be decorated with ornaments featuring seniors’ first names and gift suggestions. Holiday shoppers can choose an
HOLIDAY SAVINGS!
COURTESY OF GARY HATRICK
Grant will help purchase food The Thomas Promise Foundation has been awarded a $5,000 grant from International Paper’s Tampa Container Facility and the International Paper Foundation for the second year in a row. Funds will support The Thomas Promise mission of feeding food-insecure students in Pasco County schools. International Paper’s funding priority is given to programs related to its signature causes, such as education, hunger, health and wellness, disaster relief, and initiatives that improve the planet. For information, visit IPgiving.com. Currently, Thomas Promise delivers more than 1,500 bags of six meals each to 27 schools. Here, some of its volunteers pack weekend lunch bags for delivery to Pasco County Schools.
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What’s Happening
Your Community Calendar • Submit 2 weeks in advance to: news@lakerlutznews.com • All listings free of charge
GOBBLE FEAST
The 10th annual Turkey Gobble Feast, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel, will take place Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Atonement Lutheran Church, 29617 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel (near Saddlebrook). Free meals are dine-in or carry-out. RSVP with your name, the number of meals needed and approximate time of arrival by emailing RotaryTurkeyGobble@gmail.com.
THANKSGIVING LUNCH
The Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes, KCC Second Serving, and Metropolitan Ministries will host a free takeout Thanksgiving lunch on Nov. 28 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54 in Lutz.To reserve the number of meals you need for takeout, call (813) 9484522, or text (813) 494-3399.
PEACE, LOVE & FUNK
The annual Tampa Tour De Clay is scheduled for Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event encompasses two days, five studios and 33 potters. The five studios are Schiemann Studio, St. Petersburg; Pottery Boys Studio, Palm Harbor; Hidden Lake Pottery, Odessa; Wellman & Welsch Pottery, Lutz; and San Antonio Pottery, San Antonio. The professional artists represent a wide range of functional and sculptural clay work, and will be available both days to discuss their work and allow direct patron purchases. Each studio will have a fundraising for WMNF Community Radio and other local nonprofits, plus pottery presentations, kiln openings, and light snacks and sips. Live music by the Trail Dogs will be featured at the Schiemann Studio in St. Petersburg on Dec. 8 at noon. Jack Boyle’s San Antonio Pottery will extend its hours to 8 p.m., on Dec. 7 with live music by the Chipco Creek String Band at 3 p.m., and Those Unscrupulous Sunspots at 6 p.m. The string band will return on Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. For complete details, visit TampaTourDeClay.com, or call Jack Boyle at (352) 588-4228.
Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., will host the Peace, Love & Funk Festival on Nov. 30 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.There will be groovy vibes, food, brews, and music from local bands. Guests are encouraged to bring their hula hoops and poi for the open-flow area available, for all levels of flow artists and poi spinners. The event also will include a DIY flower crown station, a family friendly kids’ zone with bounce houses and free games, an interactive butterfly feeding exhibit, and more than 30 vendors.
will take place Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Build-A-Bear store, at The Shops at Wiregrass in Wesley Chapel. Build a bear to donate to a child in the ABC Program at local Wesley Chapel elementary schools. For this event, a $10 Li’l Cubby Bear will be available. Monetary donations also will be accepted. For information, contact Cindy Ross at (813) 949-5700 or cindy@rpandg.com, or visit Facebook.com/buildabearforacause/.
CHRISTMAS MOVIE
GARDEN CLUB
The Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., in downtown Tampa, will present the movie “Miracle on 34th Street” on Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. Before the film, guests can meet Santa Claus and take home a free commemorative photo, courtesy of the Bank of America. Tickets are $10.Theater members pay $7. For information, visit TampaTheatre.org.
WINTER WONDERLAND
A Winter Wonderland fundraising event will take place Dec. 1 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., to benefit the Sean Bartell Foundation.The first 50 minutes of the event will be for autistic children and other children requiring a private setting, with Santa visits by appointment only. No appointments are needed from 1:50 p.m. to 6 p.m.The event also will include games, crafts, vendors, a raffle and a swag bag. Cookies and milk will be provided. For information, call (813) 401-0088, or email jls16349@gmail.com.
CD RELEASE PARTY
The Phase III Band will host a CD release party on Dec. 1 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at Ukulele Brand’s, 4805 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. The band will perform the new CD, “Riversong.” For information, visit PhaseIIIBand.com.
The Land O’ Lakes Garden Club will meet Dec. 3 at 10:30 a.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. There will be a short presentation on making large containers into self-watering containers.There also will be a potluck lunch, the singing of carols, and a plant exchange. For information, call Marie Woody at (813) 961-2697.
STRESS LESS FUNDRAISER
The Franciscan Center, 3010 N. Perry Ave., in Tampa, will host “Stress Less. Give More.A Stressless Holiday Shopping Experience and Fundraiser” on Dec. 3 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.The free event will offer hospitality and unique gift-giving opportunities for Christmas, Chanukah and other occasions. The gifts will focus on wellness, spirituality and arts services from the Franciscan Center, and other Tampa Bay providers and vendors.Activities also will include giftwrapping services, holiday card writing in serene spaces, 50/50 raffles, center tours, a silent auction, and sample holiday fare tastings from the Franciscan Café.The Tampa Breakfast Sertoma Club also will sell poinsettias. For information, visit FranciscanCenterTampa.org.
WELLNESS GARDENING
The Suncoast Bronze Ringers will present a Christmas handbell concert,“I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” on Dec. 1 at 3 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 4651 Little Road in New Port Richey. Donations will be accepted. For information, call Jackie Kerschbaum at (727) 868-6365.
UF/IFAS Extension Office will host “Gardening for Wellness” on Dec. 3 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.The workshop will introduce the wide range of physical, social, emotional and financial benefits of gardening and horticulture. Admission is free, but registration is required.Visit sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu, and click on the menu for Events.
BUILD-A-BEAR FUNDRAISER
SAINT LEO CHRISTMAS
HANDBELL CONCERT
The fourth annual Build-A-Bear For A Cause
CARD MAKING FOR VETS
Tampa Tour De Clay
Saint Leo University will host four
performances of its annual family friendly musical program,“A Saint Leo Christmas” on Dec. 3 and Dec. 4 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m., in the Black Box Theatre, Benedictine Hall, 33701 State Road 52 in St. Leo.Admission and parking are free, but reservations are required to guarantee seating. Call (352) 5888401 and leave a message, or email a request to collegeofartsandsciences@saintleo.edu. There also will be 12 Christmas trees lining the walkways and there will be an Angel Tree in the lobby to benefit clients of Catholic Charities, locally. Cider, cookies and hot chocolate will be provided. For information, visit SaintLeo.edu.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
All Gulfside Hospice Thrift Shoppes’ locations will host extended hours on Dec. 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., during Holiday Open Houses. Guests can have cookies and cocoa with Santa, and get 50% off all Christmas items and decorations. For store locations, visit Gulfside.org/thrift-shoppes.
LUTZ GARDEN CLUB
The Orange Blossom Garden Club will meet for its holiday luncheon on Dec. 4 at 11:30 a.m., at Imperial Buffet, 21627 Village Lakes Shopping Center in Land O’ Lakes. The gift exchange ($15 price limit) is optional. Gifts do not have to be garden related. For information, call Nicole Webster at (813) 860-4480.
FUNDRAISING BREAKFAST
Uplifting Neighbors will host an inaugural fundraising breakfast on Dec. 4 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Verizon Event Center, 8718 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey.The event will benefit the Pasco County Human Services program for those in need of utility payment or rent/mortgage assistance, to help prevent homelessness. For information, call (727) 834-3297.
ART COMPETITION
The Pasco Fine Arts Council and Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park will host “Paint Out at Starkey Park,” a plein air art competition, Dec. 5 to Dec. 8 at the park, 10500 Wilderness Drive in New Port Richey.There will be a welcome reception on Dec. 4. Exhibits and awards will take place on Dec. 8. For details, visit PascoArts.org, call (727) 845-7322, or stop by the Fine Arts Council at 4145 Fairford Drive in New Port Richey.
The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host Social Seniors on Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to noon, for ages 55 and older. Participants can make holiday cards to donate to veterans.All the cards will be delivered by library staff to the Baldomero Lopez State Veterans Nursing Home.There also will be coffee and cookies. For information, call (813) 929-1214.
WEAVING GROUP
The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will host the Woven Together Weaving Group on Dec. 6 from noon to 2:30 p.m. Participants can compare and discuss weaving techniques, looms, spinning wheels, threads, yards, color and more. Bring your own tools and materials. For information, call (352) 567-3576.
Z BOOK CLUB
The Z Book Club will meet at the Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., on Dec. 6 at 3 pm., to discuss “The Mountain Between Us” by Charles Martin. For information, call (813) 780-0064.
ANNUAL WINTERFEST
Dr. Unger’s 10th annual Winterfest will take place Dec. 6 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Dec. 7 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Sims Park in New Port Richey.There will be snow slides, vendors, a tree lighting, bounce houses, meet-and-greet with Santa and Mrs. Claus (Dec. 7 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., only), live music, and demonstrations. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots and get a free fast pass (one-time use). Guests also can play in snow and watch a Christmas boat parade. For complete details and schedule, visit WinterfestFl.org.
CHRISTMAS BOOK SALE
The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host a Christmas Book Sale from Dec. 6 to Dec. 13.There will be Christmas-themed books, including cooking, crafts, fiction, children’s and more. Cash or checks only. For information, call (813) 929-1214.
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
The GFWC Pasco Junior Woman’s Club will present a charity Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 7 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Lexington Oaks Community Center, 26304 Lexington Oaks Blvd., in Wesley Chapel. Tickets are $5 per person and include breakfast, a kid’s craft, a raffle and pictures with Santa. Proceeds will go toward providing Christmas gifts to local families in need. Guests can choose between four seating times.This event fills up fast. Tickets are available until sold out. For information, contact Sharon Grace at (813) 220-2716 or Sharon_grace@aol.com. For tickets, visit GFWCPascoJWC.eventbee.com.
SANTA’S TREE
The San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union (SACFCU) is partnering with local charities for Santa’s Tree, a Giving Tree, to benefit families in Restored Hope, the Samaritan Project, and The Thomas Promise program. Stop by any of the credit union offices and choose a give tag, purchase the gift, and return the gift and tag to the credit union by 5 p.m., Dec. 9. Gifts will be distributed by the SACFCU staff. For information, visit SACFCU.org.
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Items collected donated to “CARES” (soaps, hygiene products, etc.)
Dade City, FL L 33523 off US Hwy 301 • 15602 Pioneer Museum m Road ZZZ SLRQHHUÁRULGDPXVHXP RUJ www.LakerLutzNews.com
November 27, 2019
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Closer Look a N
a d v e r T i S e r
P r o f i L e
Local Ownership Keeps Customers Coming Back Special to The Laker / Lutz News
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“We don’t run bogus sales, where furniture is marked up 50% or 60%, just so the retailer can then mark them down to a ‘sale’ price,” said Moore. “No business can sell their products for 50% off – they would go out of business! In my opinion, these sales are an insult to your intelligence.” Over 90 percent of Hudson Square’s upholstered furniture and mattresses are made in the U.S. “When we sell a mattress, you typically get a full warranty for all 10 years,” said Moore, who added that most national mattress brands pro-rate their warranties. Also setting itself apart from the chains is that Hudson Square customers can buy furniture and mattresses off the floor – something few chain stores allow. “Customers typically have to wait three weeks to three months for their furniture to be delivered. But not here — we can deliver as soon as a customer wants –even the same day,” said Moore. For customers wanting to choose their fabric, they can also place custom orders. Hudson Square has hundreds of fabric and leather swatches in every color and pattern imaginable. The store rounds itself out with a huge variety of unique home accessories that are always discounted 15%. Hudson Square Coastal Furniture is open seven days a week. “We invite folks to visit our stores and see for themselves the quality of our furniture and beds, our large selection of styles and sizes, and browse our inventory of fun accessories to complement your home,” said Moore.
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November 27, 2019
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There’s no place like in PASCO & NORTH HILLSBOROUGH
ICI Homes’ Most Popular Floor Plan Ready Now In Bexley
O
ne of the most beautiful and functional move-in ready homes in Bexley, Land O’ Lakes’ topselling community, is now available from ICI Homes. The four-bedroom, three-bath Costa Mesa is on a 70-foot corner homesite in Bexley’s most prestigious neighborhood, located close to the clubhouse and pools. The semi-custom home includes luxury finishes, an expansive lanai, mud room with built-in bench off the garage, huge walk-in pantry, and tandem garage ideal for a compact car, golf cart or storage. The Costa Mesa’s open floor plan flows with 2,565 square feet of living area designed perfectly for the active lifestyle Bexley extols. “This home is an entertainer’s dream. Its gathering room, gourmet kitchen and dining room are one expansive space highlighted by lots of windows that capture tons of natural light,” said Ron Ferguson, division president for ICI Homes. “People absolutely love the huge kitchen and its extra-large island, which is a standard feature and one of the largest islands offered by any builder.” Families interested in this home also will be drawn to its location in Bexley, a Newland community located off State Road 54, just east of the Suncoast Parkway. Bexley was recently named the top-selling master-planned community in Tampa Bay, with home sales up more than 45 percent, compared to a year ago.
table. There are also two resort-style pools, an outdoor fire pit and an event lawn. The schools zoned for Bexley residents are some of the best in Pasco County — Bexley Elementary, Rushe Middle School and Sunlake High School. Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes, a highly regarded charter school, is just minutes from Bexley. This is the last chance to buy an ICI The Costa Mesa open floor plan is 2,565 square feet with four bedrooms and three baths. Home in Bexley. ICI Homes is building its final three homes “ICI Homes has partnered with walking, biking, jogging and in Bexley, which includes the Costa Newland for several years in both strollers. Several community parks Mesa that is ready now, and the Bexley and FishHawk Ranch in dot the landscape, and sports lovers slightly smaller Egret VII, which will south Hillsborough County,” said of all ages use the Mud, Sweat and soon be under construction. Ferguson. “Pasco families looking to Gears Park for impromptu soccer or Since ICI Homes was established move up to a prestigious new home football games, while younger kids in 1980, the company has built over don’t have to travel far to experi- spend hours playing on custom- 4,000 single-family homes in ence Florida’s best privately held built playgrounds. Florida, including the Tampa Bay builder and master-planned comAt the heart of this award-win- area, and has earned several prestimunity, right here in their ning community is The Bexley Club, gious awards for design and backyard.” where people enjoy scenic lakefront innovation. Buying an ICI Homes in Bexley is views at the Twisted Sprocket Café. The sales center for Bexley is in a wise financial investment for fami- Next door to the clubhouse, Asturia, another ICI Homes commulies, and also one that offers an Suncoast Trailside Bicycles sells a va- nity just a mile away in Odessa, at outdoor lifestyle attractive to fami- riety of bikes, gear and clothing, and 2112 Secret Cove, (727) 432-3069. lies of all kinds. offers repairs and rentals. Two addi- Stop by or call today to tour the Costa Bexley is designed so residents tional buildings make up The Bexley Mesa home in Bexley between 10 can enjoy the great outdoors. The Club: a cardio-focused fitness cen- a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through community is home to miles of ter, and a screened-in game room Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on multi-surface Avid™ trails, ideal for with air hockey, foosball and a pool Sunday.
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November 27, 2019
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A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM
Thank Those Who Make a Difference
H
ere are a few simple ways to say thank you people who go above and beyond in making a difference in the lives of others. 1. Create a thoughtful care package by putting together personalized gift baskets filled with all the things you know they love. 2. Send an anonymous donation to their favorite charity. 3. Give the gift of relaxation, Whether it’s with a gift certificate to a spa, entry to a wine tasting or a set of tickets to the movies or a concert. 4. Write a thank you note. In
From Our Family to Yours!
Holly Ruhlig, Broker/Owner 813-240-6768 hollyruhlig@advantagereservices.com
Heather Acevedo, Realtor 813-352-4881 heatheracevedo@ymail.com
Angela Brunton, Realtor 727-457-6954 angbrunton108@icloud.com
Patrick Harpe, Realtor 813-382-8888 patrickharperealtor@tampabay.rr.com
Karen Hernandez, Broker Associate 813-918-5765 thinkkaren@gmail.com
Kathy Huntzinger, Realtor 813-784-1346 khuntzinger@ymail.com
Jodie Maddaloni, Realtor 813-382-2692 Jodiemaddaloni@gmail.com
Stephanie Meid, Realtor 813-695-0234 stephaniemeid1@gmail.com
Sharon Molnar Johnson, Broker Associate 813-245-4971 sharonmolnar1@aol.com
Heather Patierno, Realtor 813-833-7804 Heather@advantagereservices.com
Linda Ruhlig, Broker Associate 813-494-5433 lindaruhlig4@gmail.com
Karen Wells, Realtor 727-771-3990 karenwells109@gmail.com
this digital age of emails and texts, a heart-felt, handwritten letter or card can become a true keepsake. For those who give all year long, let the holiday season be your opportunity to give back. Courtesy of StatePoint
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WESLEY CHA APEL | LAND O’ LAKES | NEW TA TAMPPA A
THE LAKER / LUTZ NEW WS
There’s no n place like HOME PA PA ASCO CO COUNTY T
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Advantage Real Estate Services Cornerstone A/C, Plumbing & Electrical
Beazer Homes Avex Homes
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ASTURIA
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WESLEY CHAPEL Allen Collins Realty
BEXLEY Cardel Homes David We Weekley Homes Homes by We Westbay ICI Homes Lennar WCI
Advertisers in blue appear in today today’ss Home Section
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM
November 27, 2019
Home ome is Where e The Heart Is WHERE E LAUGHTER IS SHARED D, MEMORIES BEGIN AND HEARTSTRINGS STRINGS ARE FOREVER JOINED TOGETHER. DISCO OV VER SMALL TOWN AMERICA AT AVALON AT AV VA P PA ARK WEST IN WESLEY CHAPEL, WHERE YOUR FAMIL FA LY Y WILL LIVE, LEARN, WORK AND PLAY AY Y.
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A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM
Watercolorist Rita Wilson Opens Show At Avalon Park
R
ita Wilson never imagined she would be a watercolor artist. A self-described workaholic, who worked as a project manager for AT&T until she retired six years ago, the Land O’ Lakes resident found that retirement gave her too much time on her hands. “My daughter, Kimber, told me I needed a hobby – something to stimulate my mind, and a few weeks later I received in the mail a package from her full of art supplies,” Wilson recalls. “I called Kimber and told her I didn’t know anything about painting, but she told me you never know whether you can do something, until you try it.” With that advice, her daughter suggested she take art lessons, and even went online for her and found the Pasco Fine Arts Council. Kimberly promptly signed her mom up for beginner painting lessons, and today, Wilson is an accomplished artist with her first solo art show opening next week. The Pasco Fine Arts Council is sponsoring Wilson’s exhibit, which she calls “Thru My Eyes,” from Nov. 25 through Dec. 23, at the Pasco Fine Art Council’s East Pasco Avalon One of Rita Wilson’s favorite subjects is coastal South Carolina, especially scenes of water and boats. Park West Gallery, at 33613 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. An artist Pasco County. about anything else but the picture I One of the main goals of this part“Jo made learning to paint simple. am working on, and never know nership is to introduce people to reception to celebrate Wilson’s work is planned for Friday, Dec. 13 from 6 She taught us some basic tech- when I begin how a panting will turn local artists like Wilson, with monthp.m. to 8 p.m. The exhibit is free and niques, and then let us experiment out. I usually think it will be a disas- ly exhibits and demonstrations, and open to the public. All are welcome, and develop our own styles,” said ter, but most often it turns into also to offer art classes for youngsters Wilson. “I showed my husband my something nice. I love the flow of wa- and adults. and refreshments will be served. Wilson will have up to 26 paint- first few paintings, and he thought tercolor, and that it does not have And, that is exactly the plan for ings on display at her show — all they looked pretty good. With his en- any exact lines. You don’t really have the new East Pasco Gallery of the watercolors with scenes that depict couragement and Jo’s enthusiasm, I control over the water, but then the Pasco Fine Arts Center. her native coastal South Carolina, was hooked after the first class.” paint becomes something beautiful.” “We want to have art classes and That first six-week class led to anFlorida scenes, florals, portraits of Wilson says if she can learn to workshops for our community, and a dogs and cats, and paintings of an- other, and soon Wilson moved on to paint, anyone can, and encourages place to share artwork created by tique cars and trucks, which are intermediate and advanced classes. people to check out all the offerings students and adults,” said Stephanie often commissioned by owners who Over time, she has developed her at the Pasco Fine Arts Council, espe- Lerret, senior vice president of marwant paintings of their pets and col- own style based on her interests, and cially now that the Council has a keting and community relations for moved from landscapes into paint- location in Wesley Chapel, that is the Avalon Park Group. lectible cars. Wilson prices her painting very af- ing antiques cars and trucks – a more convenient for people in cen“As it turns out, the Pasco Fine fordably — typically between $100 hobby of her husband. She describes tral and east Pasco. Arts Council has been providing and $300, because she wants people her work as realism, and especially The partnership between the Paso these types of programs for years, to enjoy her work as much as she loves paintings water and boats. Fine Arts Council and Avalon Park and all it needed was a place in East After a few years, her husband, West began earlier this year, with a Pasco to bring their programs and does. All of her paintings will be for Otis, built her an art studio with lots goal to bring arts and cultural events, exhibits to our residents in Wesley sale during the show. Wilson’s first watercolor lesson of windows at their home in The exhibits and workshops to East Chapel, Zephyrhills, San Antonio was taught by Jo Baughman, who Groves, where Wilson now paints Pasco County. This is the first time in and Dade City. today is the director of the Pasco two to three hours a day, with plenty the Council’s 40-plus year history “It is our vision to build Fine Arts Council, the group part- of room to spread out. that is has had a location in East Downtown Avalon Park West as the nering with Avalon Park West to “I love to paint because it is so re- Pasco to host its exhibits and art cultural and event center of East bring the arts to the east side of laxing,” said Wilson. “I don’t think classes. Pasco County,” Lerret said.
The Laker Now Delivered To Avalon Park West
T
he Laker, Wesley Chapel’s only weekly community newspaper, is now being delivered to homes in Avalon Park West. “We are delivering over 300 papers to this premier community, and are so pleased to have been invited into Avalon Park West by its developer. We can now bring local news and feature stories to residents that they cannot get anywhere else,” said Diane Kortus, publisher and owner. The Laker is delivered every Wednesday to the driveways of Avalon Park West homes. As new homes are completed in the community, The Laker will add those new residents to its distribution. “We are very excited that The Laker is now being delivered to our residents,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing and community relations for the Avalon Park Group. “This newspaper is packed with stories and informa-
tion our residents want to know about, and we’re so glad our homeowners now have the paper being delivered to their driveways.” The Laker and its sister newspaper, the Lutz News, are delivered in the suburban north Tampa communities of Lutz, Odessa, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Dade City and San Antonio. Each week they publish 47,395 papers, which are read by over 78,000 local residents. In Wesley Chapel, 90% of the papers are delivered to homes, and the remaining go to over 75 business locations and newspaper boxes. The Laker has a remarkable readership of 80%, making it one of the best-read community papers in the country. In addition to the weekly news, The Laker has informative advertisements from local businesses, to help residents find medical services, recreational activities, home services,
Pick Up Your Library Holds At Avalon Park West
A
valon Park West has partnered with the New River Branch Library, which closed Oct. 1 to undergo a major renovation, so that area residents can now pick up their library holds at the community’s West Information Center on State Road 54. Pasco residents with library cards can pick up their reserved books and return them to the Welcome Center, located about 1 mile west of the New River Library at 33613 State Road 54. Before you visit your library, you can check the status of your hold and log in to your account at PascoLibraries.org, or call (813) 7886375. Library staff will be on hand to process your holds and returns Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Please note that only holds and returns can be handled at Avalon Park West. For other library business, please visit one of the library’s other branches. The New River library renovation is being paid for with funding provided through a general obligation bond approved by voters in November 2018 to upgrade Pasco County’s seven branch libraries. The New River Branch Library project is expected to be completed by Summer 2020. The library projects will include updated technology, new outdoor spaces, more accessible parking, updated furnishings, highefficiency air conditioning systems, high-speed internet and makerspaces.
restaurants and places to shop in their neighborhood. It also has advertising circulars from regional and national retailers, such as Publix, Earth Fare, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, Walmart, Michaels, Rural King, Ollie’s and Smart Choice. The Laker’s editorial team consists of professional journalists who write informative and timely stories about our area’s growth and development, schools, health care, community groups, businesses, and youth and
adult sports and recreation. The quality of its stories is recognized every year with numerous awards from prestigious industry groups, including the Florida Press Association and Community Papers of Florida. The Laker and Lutz News are independently owned by Kortus, who is a resident of Land O’ Lakes. The Laker has been published in Pasco County since 1981. In Hillsborough County, the Lutz News has published since 1964.
December 14th 2019 5-8pm 5227 Autumn Ridge Drive Wesley Chapel, FL 33545
Bounce Park Food Trucks Vendors Community Performances Pictures with Santa
FIREWORKS AT 8PM Avalon Park West is conveniently located 3.5 miles East of I-75 on SR 54. 33613 SR 54, Wesley Chapel, FL 33543
For more information on this and other events, visit AvalonParkWest.com or call 813-783-1515.
A SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION IN THE LAKER/LUTZ NEWS • 813-909-2800 • LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM
.
November 27, 2019
The Whiite family owns the Lutz Stanley Steemer operation. (left to right) CJ J White with daughter, Olivia; Na atalie White with son, Landon;; Brandie Ballard (CJ’s sister) an nd Chet White (CJ’s father).
A
s we w count our bllessings this Th hanksgiving, we e consider ourselves s exttremely fortunate to have cusstomers and em mployees like you, you y and d a community y that cares so much about ea ach other. Yo ou ar ae the priceless key to our success, and we w thank you fo or all your supp port. Wishing you y a happy Tha anksgiving and d a joyful holida ay season.”
“
– The White W Family a y
W at are WE Wh Thankful fo for?
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New Model Homes Open For Tour At Asturia
Unique Floor Plans Offered By Four Premier Builders
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he holiday season is a wonderful time to dream about your next home, and Asturia invites you to visit its model homes by some of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top builders, in Odessa. The communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beautifully furnished model homes are open for tour daily at this master-planned community, located off of State Road 54, just west of the Suncoast Parkway. David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes, Park Square Homes and Ryan Homes are Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exclusive builders. Model homes are open daily in the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third and final phase, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers. The communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest model is the Mendocino by David Weekley Homes. The beautifully furnished Mendocino is 2,845 square feet, and features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet. Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in David Weekley Homesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 square feet to 3,200 square feet that are built on 55-foot homesites. To celebrate the holidays, David Weekley Homes is hosting a Sips with Santa special event on Sunday, Dec. 15 at it model home center. Celebrate the Christmas season with hot chocolate, coffee and sâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;mores, with Santa hearing Christmas wishes from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Other single-family home models in Asturia are available for tour by ICI Homes, and Ryan Homes has models of its townhome community. And, at the first of the year, a new
ABOUT ASTURIA
The Costa Mesa by ICI Homes is Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest model home, located on a fabulous conservation homesite.
model by Park Square Homes will open, with a rear-entry floor plan that will be priced in the high $300s. In late June, ICI Homes opened its new Costa Mesa model near the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entrance on a beautiful waterfront homesite with long conservation views. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath, three-car garage plan is 2,565 square feet, and showcases a huge kitchen with extra-large island and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry. ICI Homes also has a second model on a beautiful conservation lot, the Serena, that is now for sale and can include the modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now. Ryan Homes offers two floor plans in Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only townhome community. These three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 square feet to 1,770 square feet, all with two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. The homes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing. Prices begin in the $220s. Ryan Homes hit their halfway mark and have only 108 units to go. They have no inventory of homes, which allows the
builder to customize new construction townhomes for its buyers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The beautiful Asturia community has so much to offer with its first class amenities, and our homes are at a perfect price that our sales have been brisk,â&#x20AC;? said Mona Cruz, one of the Ryan Homes sales team. David Weekly Homes and ICI Homes have inventory homes available for families who are looking to move now or at the first of the year. These homes have special year-end pricing, which includes both price discounts and other incentives. Park Square Homes is Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest builder, and is building its Margate II model that features three bedrooms, two baths and a two-car garage. This 1,966 square foot home has an inviting foyer with spacious flex room, an island kitchen with an abundance of cabinets and large den off the foyer. The Margate II starts at $319,990 and a model of this floorplan is expected to be completed in January. Asturia is Park Square Homes first entry into Pasco County. It brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007 with communities in south Hillsborough County.
Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s distinctive, 5,800-squarefoot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation. Currently in its third phase, when Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,â&#x20AC;? said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s modest community size.â&#x20AC;? Outstanding schools are another top reason why families move to Asturia. Children attend some of the best schools in Pasco County, including Odessa Elementary, Seven Springs Middle School and J.W. Mitchell High School. All three schools have received a minimum A or B school grade for the last three years. A low-cost HOA and CDD are well worth the benefits of living in Asturia, with fees considerably less than other master-planned communities in Pasco County. Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75. Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings. More information can be obtained by visiting Asturiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s model homes, registering at the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 510-3601.
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Community November 27, 2019
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point and Medical Center of Trinity
Your only Leapfrog ‘A’ Safety Grade Hospitals in West Pasco!
We work relentlessly to provide the safest care to our patients. This fall, those efforts were recognized when our hospitals became the only “A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade facilities in West Pasco. This honor is based on the important steps we take every day to protect our patients from harm.
Congratulations!!! Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point Medical Center of Trinity November 27, 2019
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Pasco economy looks to grow and diversify
ARE YOU FULLY COVERED?
By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s recent wins:
From workforce assistance to recruiting new companies to building new office • Mettler-Toledo relocates to Lutz and space, the Pasco Economic Development builds $30 million, 267,000-square-foot faCouncil Inc., has many projects “in the cility, creating nearly 700 jobs pipeline.” • TouchPoint Medical Inc., is building $24 Bill Cronin, president/CEO of the ecomillion, 142,000-square-foot global nomic development agency, discussed those headquarters in Odessa, creating 228 plans and more as the featured guest speakjobs er at The Greater Pasco Chamber of • Phillips & Jordan Inc., is building $15 milCommerce’s November breakfast meeting lion, 47,432-square-foot regional at Seven Springs Golf and Country Club in headquarters near San Antonio, creatNew Port Richey. ing 40 jobs The Pasco EDC’s mission is “to stimulate • Welbilt Inc., is adding 110 jobs and balanced and diversified economic growth.” 42,000-square-foot building expansion It uses private investments and tax dolto its New Port Richey headquarters lars to foster economic development in • Bay Tech Industries is investing $1.5 milPasco County, helping businesses start and lion in new equipment and grow. 12,170-square-foot building expansion in To do that, Cronin said the agency is Odessa working to attract a wide range of industries • Brew Bus Brewing Inc., is expanding mito the county, such as life sciences and medcrobrewery operation to Pasco, ical technology; business and professional purchasing 34,000-square-foot facility in services; high technology; logistics; aeroWesley Chapel, creating 46 jobs space, aviation and defense; and, advance manufacturing, among others. A Michigan native, Cronin stressed the county doesn’t want to wind up like his can differentiate.You’ve gotta be in it first, home state that depends too much on the and then you can differentiate after you’re automobile industry, or another state such in it, but if you’re not in it, you can’t differenas South Carolina, which is too reliant on tiate,” he said. the tobacco, cotton and textiles industries. Recruiting a company requires much “We don’t want to be that community more than offering incentives, Cronin said. It that has to diversify down the road.We want also involves offering workforce assistance to do it now and prepare so we’ve got jobs programs and job training grants, he said. for everybody,” Cronin said. He drew attention to an Part of that diversification, AmSkills (American Cronin said, is simply just bringManufacturing Skills Initiative) ing in more businesses and apprenticeship program at manufacturing companies, in New Port Richey’s Marchman general, to balance the county’s Technical College that he said rapid residential growth over really resonates with Germanthe past three decades or so. based companies, which use a The speaker noted that similar apprenticeship model Pasco County is “pretty upside for workforce training. down in residential, as it relates It helps create a comfort to job creation.” level for companies, Cronin He also pointed out that it said. costs the county “a lot more In this case, he said, it shows money” to provide residential Pasco Economic German companies “they’re reservices — roads, schools, pub- Development Council ally thinking like we’re lic safety and so forth — president/CEO Bill thinking.” compared to meeting public Cronin “Sometimes that’s their service needs generated by biggest fear — what’s the embusinesses. ployee look like? Is Joe going to Said Cronin:“It behooves us to go after look like Hans? What can they expect? some of this business to lessen that imbal- When they see this (apprenticeship proance on property tax and the burden on gram), they know we’re trying to do our our taxpayers.” best to make sure it looks similar to their Cronin also explained how the Pasco operation.” EDC is differentiating itself from other ecoThe Pasco EDC also has partnered with nomic development groups across the CareerSource on a new website,‘Workforce United States, or what he describes as Connect,’ a one-stop resource that helps “16,000 competitors out there trying to get match employers and career seekers. those businesses.” The website maps available training proOne strategic move is going after interna- grams and services countywide, and helps tional companies wanting to expand their align Pasco’s talent supply with industry defootprint in the United States, through its mand. SMARTLandings incubator program. Pasco County’s recent addition of several Many of these international ventures new companies has given the county more may start with only one or two employees, credibility in the eyes of other companies Cronin said, but capturing that loyalty early looking to make capital investments in an on could end up paying dividends in the area, Cronin said. long run — when a company is ready to ex“Now that (companies) see some activity pand, perhaps, bring in a distribution or happening, they’re more receptive to it.The manufacturing center. market’s starting to respond,” Cronin said. He noted, it’s an initiative other economMoreover, the county’s proximity to ic development groups aren’t doing, Tampa International Airport and luxury because “they’re only interested in these big housing developments, including Starkey projects that have 100 jobs, 50 jobs and Ranch and Wiregrass Ranch, have become “a things like that.” really big selling point” to CEOs looking to Cronin also mentioned incorporating add or relocate a company’s headquarters, “North Tampa Bay, Florida” to the agency’s Cronin said. branding and tagline has gone some way in For decades, Pasco County has had a repmarketing the area to international business- utation of being a bedroom community, es and corporations. where people lived, but commuted daily to The economic development leader ac- work in other counties. knowledged getting some pushback on the Now, Cronin said, “we have CEO-level branding. housing that CEOs can actually live up here, “Yeah, we’re Pasco, but when we travel and their staff lives up here, so why get in overseas, and we’re competing and we’re that rat race and drive every day to Tampa? going out into the world, we first have to be “Instead,” Cronin said, “why don’t you included in the conversation, and then we move your operation to Pasco.”
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November 27, 2019
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Health
&
The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about available classes, seminars, lectures and events regarding health and wellness issues. Hospitals, doctors, individual practitioners and anyone related to the health care industry can submit information, at least two weeks in advance, to be considered for publication. Photos of events, recognitions and so on, also are welcome. Submissions should include who, what, where, when, cost, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. This information should be emailed to news@lakerlutznews.com.
Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com
NEW TRAUMA DIRECTOR
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has appointed Dr. Maryam Bita Tabrizi as the Level II Trauma Center’s trauma medical director. Dr.Tabrizi received her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Memphis College of Medicine. She completed her residency at the University of Florida-Jacksonville, and completed a fellowship in trauma/critical care at USCD College of Medicine. Dr.Tabrizi has served as a clinical instructor at Harvard University, as a trauma/critical care general surgeon at Massachusetts General Hospital, and trauma medical director at North Shore Medical Center, where she established the North Shore Acute Care Surgical Program. She has also earned Level III Trauma Center verification.
AA BOOK AVAILABLE TO THE DEAF
The book, “Alcoholics Anonymous,” is now available in an updated abridged translation into American Sign Language, according to a release from Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). Commonly referred to as “The Big Book,” this basic text of the worldwide fellowship that bears its name is now available on DVD to the deaf community, the hard-of-hearing community, and the hearing community, as well. The AA organization has been committed to making its program of recovery available to anyone, anywhere who reaches out for help with a drinking problem. This translation has been updated with current language and signing most familiar to today’s deaf community. For information about AA resources for the deaf, call (212) 870-3344. To order the translated book/DVD, visit AA.org, or stop by your local AA office to see if it available.
EQUIPMENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Crescent Community Clinic, 5244 Commercial Way in Spring Hill, has a Durable Medical Exchange Program.
Equipment (for long-term or short-term), such as a walker, cane, wheelchair, shower chair, bedside commode, bed rails, CPAP/BPAP machine, or nebulizer, may be available. The clinic offers these items for a donation to the clinic, to keep the program running. Equipment availability depends on donated items received. If you are in need, call the clinic at (352) 667-1462. Leave your name, phone number and the name of the item you need, and the clinic will contact you. You can also call the clinic if you have items to donate.
HOSPITALS GETS ‘A’ SAFETY GRADE
The Medical Center of Trinity and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point were awarded an A in the fall 2019 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national distinction recognizing the hospitals’ achievements protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care. These are the only two hospitals in west Pasco to receive an A grade. The safety grade is assigned to all general hospitals across the country based on performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections and other harms to patients in their care.
POISON CONTROL ENHANCES WEBSITE
Florida’s Poison Control Centers has launched two new features to enhance its website. The network has added multi-language capability by allowing the user to select a Spanish language translation while viewing all its related poison prevention information. Users quickly will be able to choose “Espanol” from a dropdown at the top of the site to find all poison prevention information content translated by certified translators. Additionally, the Poison Control Centers added a new data dashboard to its existing page that adds a novel approach to characterizing poisonings in Florida, handled by its three poison control centers. The new dashboard allows users to obtain more detailed information about toxic exposures in their local area. Visit FloridaPoisonControl.org.
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Non-compliance not only places a pharmacy’s staff and patients at risk of exposure to HDs, but a pharmacy and pharmacist-incharge licenses also can be impacted if a breach of USP 800 is recognized. Enforcement will come from the state board of pharmacy.
The new safety standard, USP 800, is being implemented with the intent to minimize the exposure to hazardous drugs from health care personnel, patients, and anyone else in contact with these drugs, as written by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), according to a news release. The standard regulates the practice and quality standards of handling hazardous drugs (HDs) to promote patient safety, worker safety, and environmental protection. Handling HDs includes, but is not limited to, the receipt, storage, compounding, dispensing, administration, and disposal of sterile and nonsterile products and preparations. The deadline for compliance to the new safety standard, USP 800, is Dec. 1.
OAK HILL RESIDENTS RECOGNIZED
Oak Hill Hospital anesthesiology residents participated in the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), in Orlando. Each year, the ASA hosts more than 14,000 anesthesiology professionals from around the world. Four of Oak Hill’s graduate medical education anesthesiology residents not only participated, but their research was accepted for presentation and display.
Medical director earns fellow status Dr. Lisa W. Barker, medical director for Gulfside Healthcare Services in Pasco County, has earned the designation of Fellow of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. The academy is the professional organization for physicians who care for patients with serious illness. Dr. Barker received her medical degree from the University of Kentucky and also trained in family medicine at the school. Following her residency, she joined Ashland Family Medicine in Ashland, Kentucky, and later began working in the field of hospice, while still working as a family physician. She became the medical director of community hospice, serving northeastern Kentucky and southern Ohio. Dr. Barker moved to Florida in 2016 to practice hospice and palliative medicine full-time. She is board certified in family medicine, and hospice and palliative medicine, and is a certified hospice medical director. Dr. Barker will be presented with her designation during the closing plenary session at the annual Assembly of
COURTESY OF GULFSIDE HEALTHCARE SERVICES
Lisa Barker
Hospice and Palliative Care in San Diego, California, in March. The Fellow of the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine status is the highest honor that can be bestowed upon a physician member.
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Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HOSTED FAMILY NIGHT Chester Taylor Elementary School, 3638 Morris Bridge Road in Zephyrhills, hosted a Physical Education Family Night on Nov. 21, for students, families and staff. Physically active kids are more likely to be motivated, focused and successful in school. Practicing a skill helps improve abilities and helps to make kids feel more accomplished. Mastering physical skills builds confidence at every age. At the event, parents had the chance to learn about healthy eating choices and fun physical activities to do at home with the kids. Students participated in games like Pin Knock Over, Spike Ball, jump rope and more. There also was a raffle at the end of the evening, and special appearances by Raymond, the Tampa Bay Rays mascot, and players from the USF Bulls.
COURTESY OF THE LIONS’ PRIDE MEDIA GROUP
Saint Leo University’s Class of 1969 celebrates its 50th reunion at the school’s annual homecoming weekend.
Saint Leo celebrates Alumni and guests from throughout the United States and the world came home to Saint Leo University to celebrate homecoming weekend at University Campus. The three-day event included a Greek Mixer; Brews & Bites; a Scholarship Ball; brunch with Jeffrey Senese, Saint Leo president; alumni recognitions; softball, baseball, volleyball and soccer games; a Lions Rally; and, the crowning of the homecoming king and queen. Alumni awards went to: • Antonio Cruz, Christopher Laney and Kevin Sullivan II — Roaring Onward Recognition • John Gassler — Benedictine Spirit Award • James Cervera — 2019 Distinguished Alumni Award Maurqise McGill and Victoria Omoregie were crowned the 2019 homecoming king and queen. The weekend wrapped up with goat yoga, Mass at the Abbey Church, and a brunch.
SAINT LEO: BEST FOR VETS
Saint Leo University was named by the Military Times as the No. 1 university in the country for educating veterans. Saint Leo ranked first in the nation in the Military Times’ Best for Vets: Colleges 2020 in the Online and Nontraditional Schools category. This ranking recognizes the school’s commitment to educating military personnel, veterans and their families wherever they may be, even if they are deployed. The first-place ranking marks a jump from last year’s fourth place, and an eighth place in 2017. More information about the rankings can be found at Charts.militarytimes.com/chart/17.
WREC SCHOLARSHIPS The Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) will accept applications for scholarships, starting Dec. 1. Students will be selected in their senior year of high school by local guidance counselors and WREC personnel. Each applicant must: • Be a high school senior and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA • Be a dependent of a WREC member • Be a bona-fide resident within the service area of WREC for at least one year prior to Dec. 1 • Plan to attend an in-state college, university or technical school full-time (minimum of 12 credit hours per semester) • Maintain a 2.0 GPA each semester (or higher if mandated by the institution) to maintain eligibility Each successful candidate will receive $1,375 per semester (maximum $11,000) for undergraduate studies. Applications will be available after Dec. 1 at high school guidance offices, any WREC district office, or online at WREC.net. Completed applications must be mailed to WREC headquarters and postmarked no later than March 20.
FINANCIAL AID TIP
According to the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA), an important phrase in the language of student aid is “satisfactory academic progress” (SAP). All colleges that award federal student aid must have SAP standards, based on three key areas: GPA, pace, and a maximum time frame. The pace means that the student has to pass a stated percentage of the classes taken in a given period of time.This also may vary by college. The maximum time frame means the student will have to finish his or her degree within a given number of attempted credit hours. If a student does not meet the school’s SAP standards, he or she may not be able to receive state or federal student aid. The public, nonprofit agency KHEAA was established in 1966 to improve students’ access to college. It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to students and parents. For information, visit KHEAA.com.
SCHOOL SUPPLY DRIVE
Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) is collecting donations of school supplies to as-
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Members of the Rho Xi chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity present Carla Willis, interim vice president of Advancement and Communication, with a check for $28,080 for scholarships at the 30th anniversary Scholarship Ball.
sist the schoolchildren of the Bahamas. An estimated 18,000 children and their families have been displaced since Hurricane Dorian struck the islands on Sept. 1. Ten schools were destroyed on the island of Abaco alone, while many other schools sustained damages. The children of the Bahamas, some of whom lost family members, classmates, and their homes are transitioning to schools that are undamaged but strained to accommodate additional students. Donations of classroom supplies will be accepted at all PHSC libraries. Each college store also is accepting donations and selling discounted supplies to anyone contributing to the drive. Needed items include new backpacks, flash drives, notebooks, binders, calculators, pens, pencils, art materials, and other typical classroom supplies. The deadline to donate is Dec. 5, as the items will be shipped to the Bahamas in December. For information, email Lucy Miller, director of community outreach, at millerl@phsc.edu.
PRE-K SCREENINGS
Pasco County FDLRS Child Find offers developmental information and free screenings in coordination with the Past County Pre-K Assessment Team.
The screenings are for children not yet enrolled in kindergarten who may be having difficulties with speech, language, hearing, vision, concepts or motor skills. For information, call Child Find specialist Caitlin Ryan or Colleen Costa at (813) 7942630, (727) 774-2630 or (352) 524-2630.
FEEDING PASCO FOOD DRIVE
The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office’s annual Feeding Pasco Kids food drive is in full swing. The proceeds from the drive will go directly to local organizations whose mission is to provide support for homeless children and students. This year, the recipients include the Pasco Schools system and Metropolitan Ministries. Donation boxes are placed in the lobbies of the Pasco Sheriff’s office buildings throughout the county. Several area churches also agreed to have boxes in their buildings to assist with the food collection. Monetary donations can be made by check or money order to Pasco Sheriff’s Charities, with “Food Drive” in the ‘for’ line, and mailed to Food Drive Donations, Pasco Sheriff’s Charities, 8700 Citizen Drive, New Port Richey, FL 34654. The deadline to donate is Dec. 13. For information, call (727) 844-7759.
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HOLIDAY, from page 1A INFO: Tickets can be purchased at EventBrite.com (Pancakes, PJ’s and Putt-Putt in search box). Harvester Community Church musicals and service WHEN: Dec. 8 at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Dec. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. WHERE: Harvester Community Church, 2432 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes COST: Free DETAILS: Dec. 8 will consist of holiday tunes put on by the church’s choir and contemporary ensemble. Dec. 15 will be an outdoor event where guests can partake in carols and firepits, accompanied with hot cocoa. The Dec. 24, 4 p.m. service, will be a family oriented service in the sanctuary and offer a “Happy Birthday, Jesus” party in the children’s wing. The 6 p.m. service will have a candlelit rendition of “Silent Night.” INFO: Call (813) 948-2311, or visit HarvesterUMC.com. Myrtle Lake Baptist Church Christmas dinner WHEN: Dec. 8 from noon to 2 p.m. WHERE: Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes COST: Free DETAILS: The church will hold a special holiday dinner to ring in Christmas. INFO: Call (813) 949-5516, or visit MyrtleLake.org. St. Timothy Catholic Church’s “Christmas in Ireland” WHEN: Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. WHERE: St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Road, Lutz COST: $35 general admission; $50 (including meet-and-greet, which starts at 5:30 p.m.) Tickets can be purchased online or at the church office. DETAILS: Singer Emmet Cahill and the St. Timothy Choir will grace attendees with a rendition of classic Christmas carols. A portion of proceeds will go toward families in need. INFO: Call (828) 553-8553, or for ticket purchases, visit EmmetCahill.com/tour-dates/. 23rd Annual Christmas at the Old Lutz School WHEN: Dec.10, Dec. 12, Dec. 14, Dec. 17, Dec. 19, Dec. 20, Dec. 21, Dec. 26 and Dec. 27, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz COST: Free DETAILS: Guests can enjoy entertainment in the outdoor tent, while the school’s interior will offer rooms with trees, decorations and a train setup. Refreshments also will be served. Breakfast With Santa will be on Dec. 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. For a $4 ticket, children can enjoy a hearty meal and crafts. Voluntary donations for the needy also will be collected. INFO: Call (813) 310-8709, or visit OldLutzSchool.com. Idlewild Baptist Church’s Christmas “Real to Real” WHEN: Dec. 13 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 14 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 15 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. WHERE: Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., Lutz COST: Seating selection varies from $10, $15 and $20. DETAILS: The church function will recap the history of Christmas, as seen in classic movies. INFO: Call (813) 264-8707. Tickets can be purchased at the church’s event registration desk on Sundays and Wednesdays or at Idlewild.org/Christmas-presentation-tickets/. Christmas Toy Drive WHEN: Dec. 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. WHERE: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes COST: Free DETAILS: Kids Helping Kids Pasco County Inc., will host the toy drive, where all are invited to contribute a donation. Aside from toys, clothing and shoes will be collected, as well. INFO: Call (813) 957-5711. Keystone Community Church’s “Breath of Heaven” WHEN: Dec. 15 at 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54, Lutz COST: Free DETAILS: The event will be a biblical drama and musical, reenacting the story of Mary and Joseph that led to Jesus’ birth. INFO: Call (813) 948-4522. Christmas Eve communion service WHEN: Dec. 24 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. WHERE: Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes COST: Free DETAILS: The public is welcomed to partake in a traditional communion service on the night before Christmas. INFO: Call (813) 949-5516, or visit MyrtleLake.org.
WESLEY CHAPEL
Family Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus WHEN: Dec. 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. WHERE: Cypress Creek Church, 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel COST: Free DETAILS: Guests will not only get to take snapshots with Santa and Mrs. Claus, but also engage in ornament making. Kids also will have classes designated for them. INFO: Call (813) 909-4080, or visit CypressCreekChurch.org.
Avalon Aglow WHEN: Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. WHERE: Avalon Park West Community Center, 5227 Autumn Ridge Drive, Wesley Chapel COST: Free DETAILS: Guests can enjoy live performances, food trucks, vendors, and take a picture with Santa. INFO: Call (813) 783-1515, or visit AvalonParkWest.com/AvalonAglow2019/. Christmas in the Park WHEN: Dec. 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. WHERE: Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel COST: Free DETAILS: Guests are welcomed to the park for a night of singing carols and enjoying s’mores. INFO: Call (813) 602-1104. Symphony in Lights WHEN: Through Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. WHERE: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel COST: Free DETAILS: With a lit Christmas tree, patrons can enjoy live music, and a visit from Santa Claus, among other spectacles. Various shops and restaurants are open, too. INFO: Contact Deborah Detweiler at (813) 9944010 or info@TheShopsAtWiregrass.com.
ZEPHYRHILLS
Christmas Tree Lighting WHEN: Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. WHERE: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills COST: Free DETAILS: Attendees can help to usher in the Christmas season with the official tree lighting in downtown Zephyrhills. INFO: Call (813) 780-1414, or visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org.
Festival of Lights WHEN: Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. WHERE: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills COST: Free DETAILS: The event will be comprised of live musical entertainment, food, multiple vendors and free photos with Santa. INFO: Visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org/Festival-ofLights/. 35th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration WHEN: Dec. 8 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. WHERE: AdventHealth Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills COST: Free DETAILS: From 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., the hospital will have a visit from Santa, bounce houses and a Christmas-oriented picture booth. From 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be several musical performances. It will be followed by lighting 53 Christmas trees and setting off fireworks. INFO: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 787-2082.
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COURTESY OF CHRIS WILKERSON OF HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
The ‘peanut’ roundabout, as shown on this rendering, would help motorists make smoother turns off Van Dyke Road. The design also aims to keep traffic moving continuously.
PEANUT, from page 1A All three roundabouts would form into what is known as a “peanut” design. This configuration has a long width to better facilitate entry points that are farther apart. If it is constructed, it would be the first of its kind in the state, according to the
BOUNDARIES, from page 1A rezoned area, who will be entering their junior or senior years. Seniors can ride district buses. Juniors cannot. Board members supported Superintendent Kurt Browning’s boundary recommendations, despite requests by parents to allow current freshman at Wiregrass Ranch to have the option to remain, if their parents provided transportation. There also was a request to allow rising eighth-graders from John Long Middle to be allowed to attend Wiregrass Ranch High. In advocating for incoming sophomores, Mike Schulze, a Seven Oaks parent, said “this group is just as important as all of the others.” Other parents expressed their displeasure with the boundary shifts, citing concerns about disrupting their children’s lives, traffic issues and the greater distance from the Seven Oaks neighborhood to the Cypress Creek school complex, which is on Old Pasco Road. Board members said Pasco County’s rapid growth continues to force the district to shift boundaries to accommodate growing enrollments. Board member Allen Altman applauded Browning’s recommendation to grandfather in both rising juniors and rising seniors at Wiregrass Ranch High, which is on Mansfield Boulevard. “I think based on the numbers and pro-
Florida Department of Transportation. The proposal also calls for pedestrian-bicycle paths running along the north end and south end of Van Dyke Road. A shared-use trail connection would link the Upper Tampa Bay Trail to the Northdale Lake Park Trail. Potential detours and road closures cannot be determined yet,Wilkerson said.
jections.That was generous and accommodating,”Altman said. Board member Cynthia Armstrong said rezonings are always tough. “I know it’s painful,”Armstrong said. “The idea is to reduce the number of students at Wiregrass.And, to accomplish that, it’s necessary to move students out of Wiregrass,” she said. Board member Megan Harding said she had visited Wiregrass Ranch High, where she saw crowded hallways, students eating lunch outside and multiple portable classrooms. Failing to address the crowding could end up putting Wiregrass on a 10-period day, and that’s not a great option, the board member said. “This is not a decision I make lightly,” Harding said.“You’re child isn’t a number to me.Your child is important.” Still, Harding said:“With a rapidly growing area, if we don’t address problems now, it’s only going to get worse.” There were other boundary changes approved, including shifts that affect an area near State Road 52 and the Suncoast Parkway. The land is currently undeveloped, but has been approved for a massive development. The new boundaries assign the entire area to Mary Giella Elementary, Crews Lake Middle School and Hudson High. Future students in those areas would have been assigned to Land O’ Lakes schools.
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November 27, 2019
19A
Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source
Land O’ Lakes cheerleaders win ‘Best of Pasco’ By Kevin Weiss
2019-2020 Land O’ Lakes competitive cheer roster
kweiss@lakerlutznews.com
A
fter a long history of struggles, the Land O’ Lakes High School varsity girls competitive cheerleading team is finding its groove. The Gators won the prestigious ‘Best of Pasco’ Sunshine Athletic Conference Cheerleading Competition on Nov. 16. At the event, hosted by Land O’ Lakes High, the Gators claimed a score of 78.4, defeating 12 other county high schools. The school’s crosstown rival, Sunlake High, scored 76.2, to earn second place. The last time Land O’ Lakes won a ‘Best of Pasco’ meet was so long ago that Gator cheerleaders and coaches can’t be sure when it was. “It’s a very big deal for us,” said third-year coach Ashley Linden.“It’s been a very long time,” she added, noting it’s been at least since the early 2000s. Senior team captain Sarah Spitzig thinks it might have never happened before. In any case, it marks a striking accomplishment for a program that had not garnered much of a reputation through the years. Spitzig said it’s the first competition the Gators have won during her four years in the program.“We’re all super excited about it. It’s just boosted the team’s confidence a lot,” she said. The coach added of the ‘Best of Pasco’ achievement:“Seeing them be successful is just the best feeling, because some of them have been there for competitions where they didn’t do so great, and they still stuck it out and still kept coming back.” Like other cheer programs, the Gators 2½-minute routine combines an array of acrobatic and athletic tumbling, stunts, cheers and dances — to the sound of upbeat music. Linden described the team’s routine as “creative” combined with “a lot of really great tumbling.” Many of those advanced skills were finetuned at summer Universal Cheerleaders Association camp, Linden said. The offseason reps must’ve helped, as
COURTESY OF ASHLEY LINDEN
The Land O’ Lakes High School varsity girls competitive cheerleading team won the ‘Best of Pasco’ meet on Nov. 16.
Linden said the team’s execution of the routine was “clean” and “sharp” at the countywide meet. The team’s newfound taste of victory extends beyond just technical skills, however. Linden said it also can be explained by better attitudes and coachability overall, plus more pronounced leadership from a quartet of team captains (Spitzig, along with seniors Laura Madison and Gabriela Miller, and junior Emma Runkel). All those qualities, the coach said,“makes or breaks a team.” “Everything has just taken like a huge turn for the better,” said Linden, a former high school cheerleader herself with experience coaching All-Star and recreational teams.“This group of girls is just different; they want it this year.” It’s an assessment Spitzig can agree with. “It’s less about the skills sometimes, but more about the attitudes,” the cheerleader said. “We won even without the highest skills that we could’ve been doing; it was more just about attitude coming together and working for it.” Hand in hand with that is a stable and dedicated coaching staff, as Linden and assistant Gators cheer coach Karlee Roach have been working in tandem for three years to rebuild the program; Roach actually served as the team’s head coach the previous two seasons, then reversed roles with
Linden this year. When it comes to their efforts, the coaching duo goes the extra mile, cheerleaders say. Runkel noted that the coaches “care so much for us.” She added: “Personally speaking, I had such a negative attitude my freshman year that they really helped me grow as a person, and personality-wise, I’ve grown so much from them. “They’ve always been there supporting us, on and off the mat,” she added. Spitzig concurred:“We’ve all just developed into more of a family having them here.They give up so much time, we just appreciate it.” The signs of a budding 2019-2020 campaign were in the works toward the end of last year as the Gators placed fifth in the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Class 1A medium division state championships. At the beginning of the season, Linden felt the team had the opportunity to build on that. She was optimistic despite the fact that 13 seniors graduated and the team would be relying heavily upon four freshman flyers. The current 25-member roster consists of five seniors, 13 juniors, three sophomore and five freshman. “I’ve been saying it since the beginning
Head coach: Ashley Linden Assistant coach: Karlee Roach Team manager: Mayah Ocasio • Christina Agovino • Mia Allen • Lexi Brown • Ariana Butler • Aysiah DeBernardi • Peyton Fields • Elizabeth Harmon • Alex Heck • Grace Huff • Maddy Huff • Lauren Jones • Madelyn Macaluso • Laura Madison • Gabriela Miller • Leah Mixson • Gianna Ocasio • Katy Quandt • Paige Randall • Emma Runkel • Skyler Sander • Sarah Spitzig • Camryn Steele • Alyssa VanMeter • Nevaeh Vercellona • Kaitlyn Wall
of the season that, ‘This is our season,’” Linden said. “People probably thought we were going to be in a rebuilding year, and here we came. To win (‘Best of Pasco’), no one expected that. We kind of came out from under.” And, what made the ‘Best of Pasco’ victory even more special — was earning bragging rights over a Sunlake cheer program that for years has been a local powerhouse. “They’ve always been out for us and always proved that they’re better than us, but this year we’re actually coming up on top of them,” Runkel said. “I’ve heard they’re coming back for us — but we’re coming back for them,” Runkel said.
COURTESY OF SUNLAKE HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
Eight Sunlake High School athletes signed their National Letters of Intent on Nov. 13.
Local athletes sign with colleges Several local high school athletes ceremoniously signed on Nov. 13 their letters of intent to play college athletics — the beginning of the fall national signing period for every sport, with the exception of football. Here is a roundup of known high school athlete signings in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:
• Patrick Groark — Florida State College at Jacksonville • Trey Skidmore — University of South CarolinaUnion Soccer • Landon Craven — Huntingdon College (Montgomery, Alabama) Softball • Bianca Potts — Enterprise State Community College (Enterprise, Alabama)
COURTESY OF LAND O’ LAKES HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS
Six Land O’ Lakes High School athletes signed their National Letters of Intent on Nov. 13. • Lauren Prentice — George Washington University (Washington, D.C.) • Mia Tarrant — University of Massachusetts
Soccer • Bryanna Joseph — Huntingdon College (Montgomery, Alabama)
Softball • Kylie Liotine — Saint Leo University
Softball • Alyssa Cordoba — Ave Maria University (Ave Maria, Florida) • Jenna Gabriella — Georgia Gwinnett College • Daisy McQuain — Daytona State College
Tennis • Olivia Jablonski — Samford University (Homewood, Alabama)
ACADEMY AT THE LAKES Softball • Jessica Mott — College of Holy Cross (Worcester, Massachusetts) Volleyball • Victoria Rudolph — Roberts Wesleyan College (Chili, New York)
Tennis • Courtney Piltaver — University of Montevallo (Montevallo, Alabama)
SUNLAKE Baseball • JT Lambeta — Pasco-Hernando State College • Nick Plaisted — Pasco-Hernando State College
LAND O’ LAKES Baseball • Dakota Harris — Polk State College
STEINBRENNER Soccer • Gabriela Moore — Saint Leo University
Lacrosse • Ryan Furlong — Canisius College (Buffalo, New York)
by the year 2025. The event is one of more than 550 Out of the Darkness Overnight, Community and Campus Walks being held nationwide this year. For more information and to register, visit afsp.org/TampaWalk.
skills by incorporating sportsmanship, teamwork and self-esteem development. Cost for those ages 5 to 8 is $35 for members, $75 non-members; cost for those ages 9 to 12 is $45 for members, $85 nonmembers. For more information, email Alex Delgado at Alex.Delgado@tampaymca.org.
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THIS OUT
SUICIDE PREVENTION 5K WALK
The 10th annual Tampa Bay Our of the Darkness Community 5K Walk is set for Dec 14, at Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., in Tampa. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., with a 9 a.m. start time. The walk supports the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s education and support program and aims to reduce the annual U.S. rate of suicide 20%
YOUTH SOCCER LEAGUE
Registration is ongoing for the East Pasco YMCA’s developmental winter youth soccer league, open to ages 5 to 12 years old. The season runs from Jan. 13 through March 7. Practices will be held inside the East Pasco YMCA’s basketball gym during the week, with games on Saturdays at the Plant City YMCA. The league is designed to improve sports
PHSC VOLLEYBALL SHOWCASE/TRYOUT
The Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) volleyball program will host a showcase/tryout for its 2020 team on Jan. 4 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the West campus, 10230 Ridge Road, in New Port Richey. The event is open to high school juniors and seniors for all volleyball positions.
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November 27, 2019
www.LakerLutzNews.com
Swimming • Chloe Grimme — University of Florida WESLEY CHAPEL Softball • Jordan Almasy — University of Central Florida • Ally Fraley — Pasco-Hernando State College • Morgan Herndon — Lake Sumter State College (Leesburg, Florida)
Cost is $40 per player. Pre-registration is required. To sign up, visit tinyurl.com/u727acz. For more information, email head coach Deann Newton at newtond@phsc.edu.
YOUTH FLAG FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Registration is ongoing for the Idlewild Baptist Church Youth Flag Football league. The league runs from Jan. 9 through March 5 and is open to all community youth, from kindergartners to high schoolers. Practices and games will be on Thursday evenings. Cost is $90 per participant. Register online at Idlewild.org/recreation. For more information, contact Amanda Carrow at (813) 264-8759 or acarrow@idlewild.org.