Lutz News-Lutz/Odessa-December 16, 2020

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Santander will bring 875 jobs to Pasco

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County scored two big wins last week.

First, it sealed a deal with Santander Consumer USA to set up shop in the county, and to create 875 new job opportunities in Pasco.

Second, it found a way to give new life to a vacant building, at a prominent spot.

“Since about 2016, we’ve had a very difficult time in explaining why we have this (vacant) big box building, right at the en-

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trance of our county, at Suncoast and State Road 54,” Bill Cronin, president and CEO of the Pasco Economic Development Council, Inc., said in remarks to the Pasco County Commission.

“Super Target has remained empty for four years, despite our healthy growth.

“I’m happy to say that because of the specialized need of that building and the specialized use, we do have a special company that is taking that building,” Cronin said.

Cronin and David Engel, manager of the county’s office of economic growth, ex-

plained the details of the incentive package that’s being extended to Santander to persuade it to choose Pasco County.

Efforts to land the company began several months ago, when Santander Consumer USA came to the county during a national search conducted by Newmark Knight Frank.

“The goal was to locate a modern and efficient site that could accommodate future expansions,” Cronin said.

The search went beyond finding a site,

See JOBS, page 9A

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A showcase of the artistry of pottery The annual tradition of the Tampa Tour de Clay — now in its 13th year — gave pottery lovers a chance to check out new pieces — either live or virtually in an event that adjusted, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Gallery hoppers could check out pieces on Dec. 12 and Dec. 13 at Jack Boyle’s San Antonio Pottery in San Antonio, Wellman and Welsch Pottery in Lutz, and Pottery Boys Clay Studios in Palm Harbor. Those who didn’t feel comfortable visiting the studios in person could take a virtual tour option, instead. One benefit of the virtual tour was that “attendees” could view and purchase work by some artists who were unable to attend the traditional tour, including Lynne Meade, Timothy Sullivan, Larry Allen, Jennifer McCurdy and Martha Grover. Above, Judy Bilek and Cindy Karafilis, both of Land O’ Lakes, browse Tampa Tour de Clay artist Ira Burhan’s work at Jack Boyle’s San Antonio Pottery studio. This was the first time the women had attended the tour, but after purchasing several pieces of pottery, it won’t be their last.

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Tampa Tour de Clay artist Kimberli Cummings puts the finishing touches on her booth at the 13th annual Tampa Tour de Clay. She was stationed at Wellman and Welsch’s Pottery studio in Lutz.

Cummings specializes in majolica pottery, and many of her pieces depict Tampa landscapes, such as the University of Tampa.

Adding safety, security and Pasco lifts restriction savings to holiday shopping on Sunday morning alcohol sales

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Tampa Tour de Clay artist William ‘Bill’ Kidd shows off one of his latest pieces available for purchase at the event.

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

the ‘new normal’ has a whole array of things to consider, and there are plenty of other things that you always need to think about,’’ she said.

Here’s how Berenguer broke it down:

‘Tis the season of comfort and joy — unless you are trying to complete your holiday shopping in these pandemic-induced, economically shaky times.

THE BASICS Then, it’s more like the season Any good shopping expediof stress. tion needs a plan. That’s where The good news is that with budgeting applies. Even when proper preparation, precautions they have a sound budget, shopand common sense, things can pers often overlook the holiday run much more efficiently. incidentals — such as tape and And, you might even save wrapping paper, Berenguer said. some money along the way.

Research is essential, especialThat’s the word from Taynisha ly with so many online options.

Berenguer, a library service/techThe pandemic has mandated nology guide with the some creative thinking.

Tampa-Hillsborough County Taynisha Berenguer “You need to think outside Public Library System. the box … and by that, I mean She recently shared a wealth it’s really easy to think about just of information in a webinar entitled: the Big Three — Amazon, Walmart and “Holiday Shopping: Safely, Securely, Sensibly.’’

See SHOPPING, page 9A “I know it’s a cliche, but shopping during

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The Pasco County Commission has removed the county’s ban on the Sunday morning sales of alcoholic beverages.

Now, alcohol sales on Sunday will be treated like alcohol sales on any other day of the week in the county, said County Attorney Jeffrey Steinsnyder. Previously, the sales weren’t allowed on Sundays before 11 a.m.

No one spoke during the public hearing and commissioners voted 5-0 to amend the ordinance, during the board’s Dec. 8 meeting. The change will take effect within 10 days of the board’s action.

The change was prompted by Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, who raised See ALCOHOL, page 9A

Filling an outreach need

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club delivered large cartons filled with hygiene/personal care items and socks to Tampa Crossroads, for its clients.

Crossroads serves three local counties with counseling, rehabilitation, job training, temporary housing, and outreach to veterans and their families. Two Crossroads staff members accepted donations from woman’s club members Nancy Taylor and Dee Knerr (in green shirts). For information, visit LutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org.

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Wetlands’ impact costs $2.7 million

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Pasco County will pay about $2.7 million to buy wetland mitigation credits related to construction of the Ridge Road extension.

The Pasco County Commission approved a resolution for the payment to EIP (Ecosystem Investment Partners LLC) and the Old Florida Wetland Mitigation Bank during the county board’s Nov. 17 meeting.

The resolution described the payment as due to “unavoidable wetland impacts.”

Ridge Road is under construction but remains embroiled in a lawsuit filed by the Sierra Club against the United States Army Corp of Engineers. The federal agency approved the road’s permit after a controversy

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spanning more than two decades about its construction.

The Sierra Club alleges that the Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service relied on a faulty, outdated environmental report that omitted impacts to some endangered and threatened species.

County officials describe the road as a necessary addition to the county’s emergency evacuation routes.

Environmentalists have said the county wants the road to accommodate additional development along the road’s pathway.

The road extension is intended to provide an east-west pathway from Moon Lake Road in New Port Richey, to U.S. 41, also known as Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, in Land O’ Lakes.

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As challenges mount, an EQ coach offers advice

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

If ever there was a year when suggestions from an emotional intelligence coach might come in handy, 2020 would be it.

It’s not every year, after all, that a global pandemic causes a public health crisis that triggers an economic meltdown — resulting in millions out of work and long food lines.

Add to that the changes required for regular routines of life, such as school and church. Plus, the weddings, graduations, milestone events, funerals and even birthday parties that have been postponed, or scaled back.

On top of all that, the 2020 presidential election came at a time when the country is arguably experiencing the most bitter partisan divide in its history.

The pressures are enormous.

So, The Laker/Lutz News turned to Marisa Massone, a life coach based in Wesley Chapel, to ask for her guidance to help people navigate the holidays, to keep hope alive in a job search and look forward to new possibilities in 2021.

We asked her advice on some specific topics, and offer her responses, which have been condensed: How can people who are socially isolating during the holidays make the best of the situation?

Write some old-fashioned letters to family and friends.

Share what you’re going through, how you are dealing with the situation and how

COURTESY OF MARISA MASSONE

Marisa Massone is a life coach from Wesley Chapel who specializes in helping people build their emotional intelligence skills.

you feel about it.

Mail the letters out, with your holiday cards.

Expressing your feelings will help release your frustrations and anxiety, and sharing those with loved ones will help decrease the pain. And, the responses you receive will help, too.

Some people will have gatherings, can you offer some approaches to calm a conversation heading toward a shouting match?

First things first, try to make sure such conversations aren’t fueled by alcohol.

When emotions begin to heighten, try

shifting the conversation to a mutually beneficial, or mutually engaging topic.

If that approach doesn’t work, suggest that you agree to disagree and move on to another topic.

What are some strategies for dealing with the stress of being out of work?

Accept the now.

Ask yourself: What exactly can I be doing to be of purpose to other people.

Embrace the time you have: More time to be with family; more time to be more creative.

Also, as you search for jobs on the internet, don’t sit there all day. Search for a few hours a day, then get away from the computer — go for a walk or do some kind of exercise.

Take a break.

What if you’re struggling financially?

Ask for help.

Check Florida’s unemployment site and you’ll find links to a variety of sources for all sorts of help.

Check with local charitable organizations to find out about food pantries, clothes closets and other resources. (Local governments also are providing assistance, so it’s worth checking that out, too).

Any strategies for making New Year resolutions?

If you plan to make them, be realistic.

Make the resolutions achievable.

For more information about Massone’s services, email her at Marisa@MarisaMassone.com, call 813-690-1759, or visit her website at MarisaMassone.com.

Pasco names director of support services The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

Pasco County commissioners approved the appointment of Paula Baracaldo for the newly created position of director of support services, effective Jan. 1.

Baracaldo will receive an annual salary of $105,000.

The position results from a county departmental reorganization, prompted by Pasco’s growth over the past years. COVID-19 also is adding to the demands for services.

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Baracaldo’s new position is part of the public services branch. She has been serving as chief of staff for Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles.

Baracaldo primarily will have oversight of the veterans services and the fiscal services

• Accept your emotions, embrace your emotions. Don’t try to squash them.

Acknowledge the way you feel.

• Once you assess how you are feeling, you can move forward with solutions — if something is bothering you.

• Do some reality testing. Ask yourself: What is true? Write it down. It’s easy to start imagining things that could go wrong in a situation that hasn’t started yet. Avoid making yourself crazy, emotionally. Don’t project into the future.

When you do that, you’re asking for fear and anxiety.

• Emotional intelligence means being able to find solutions to problems, when emotions are involved. One example, for instance, is moving. It’s a transitional time that’s often stressful and emotional. To help reduce the stress, do some research to take care of the logistics, such as researching costs for new housing, lining up a truck and taking care of other details.

• Curb impulsive behavior. Pause. Resist or delay acting on impulses.

Excerpts from a talk by Marisa Massone during a Women of Wesley Chapel Trinity and Odessa (WOW-TOO) ZOOM meeting in October. WOW-TOO is affiliated with the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.

divisions, formerly part of the community services department.

She also will support other executive functions within the public services branch.

Baracaldo is a public certified manager.

She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida in political science and international studies, and a master’s degree in public policy and administration from Northwestern University.

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December 16, 2020

3A

What’s Happening

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

LIBRARY REOPENS

Hillsborough County has now reopened the Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road in Odessa, as of Dec. 14.

Selected space within the library will reopen at 25% capacity.The building is open to the public Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

FOOD GIVEAWAY

The 26th annual Holiday Food Giveaway will take place on Dec. 18 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., as a drive-thru pickup, on a firstcome, first-served basis, at Faith Baptist Church, 9230 Ridge Road in Port Richey.

No food will be given away before 9 a.m.

For information, all 727-847-8032.

WAR REENACTMENT

The Pioneer Florida Museum & Village and the Seminole Wars Foundation will present “The Treaty of Fort Dade:A Second Seminole War Event” on Dec. 19 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City.A sequence of events will be portrayed through historical interpretation and theatrical reenactment.

There also will be Seminole and other Native American artisans, time periodspecific U.S.Army and state militia portrayals, and civilian crafts and demonstrations. For more information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR

The American Victory Ship, behind The Florida Aquarium, will host its annual Holiday Spectacular on Dec. 19 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Guests can watch the Tampa Riverwalk’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade; see Santa, Mrs. Claus and their crew; purchase adult refreshments and food; bid on auction items; and listen to entertainment.The event is predominantly outside in the open air, and operating at reduced and limited capacity. Safety guidelines will be observed – with face masks and social distancing.Tickets are $15 for adults; $14 for veterans, first responders and seniors; and $10 for kids age 4 to 12. Children age 3 and younger are free. Get tickets through Eventbrite.com and Facebook.

SONS OF AMERICAN REVOLUTION

The Tampa Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will host its monthly meeting on Dec. 19 at noon, via Zoom.

Show” on Dec. 28 at 6:30 p.m., for all ages.The presentation will showcase wild and wonderful bird behavior, including free flight. Registration is through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org.

Stuff Your Stocking

The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel will host “Stuff Your Stocking” on Dec. 20 from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., as a drive-thru event at Wesley Chapel District Park.

Similar to a Trunk or Treat event, participants can decorate their cars, sport their favorite holiday attire or pajamas, and bring a stocking. Local businesses will then stuff your stockings while your family drives through a festive trail of vendors.

There will be treats, drive-thru photos with Santa, a performance by local bubble magician Blaise Ryndes, door prizes and surprises.

A portion of the donations received from this event will go toward sponsoring foster children for the holidays, The Underdog Fund, scholarships and other community needs.

The guest speaker will be Serena Zabin, chair of the History Department at Carleton College in Minnesota, who will discuss what our nation has experienced through various encounters of moving forward in the development of our country. For information on Zoom link, email William Floyd at bloydpres@aol.com.

HOLIDAY CRAFT KIT

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a Winter Holiday Curbside Kids Craft on Dec. 19 starting at 10 a.m. Pickups will be available curbside or at the information desk, until supplies run out. For questions, call 813-929-1214.

HOLIDAY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Land O’ Lakes Library group, 2818 Collier Parkway, will host a Holiday Craft Book Sale through Dec. 19.

Guests can browse craft books, cookbooks and other holiday-related items. Cash only, supplies are limited, and face masks and social distancing are required.All donations will benefit the Land O’ Lakes Library. For information, call 813-929-1214.

VILLAGE DISPLAY

The Beck Gallery, 1720 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, has a large Dept.

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15602 Pioneer Museum Rd. Dade City, 33523 Dec. 19, 2020 • 1 1pm to 6pm

BENTO LUNCH BOX

The Friends of the Library of TampaHillsborough County will host a “School Lunch Bento Box” session on Dec. 30 at 11 a.m.Wellness chef and holistic life coach Chef Mira will demonstrate how to make a single, home-packed lunch with ingredients that are healthy, fun and affordable. Registration is through the calendar feature online at HCPLC.org.

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who would like to stop by to see it, for free.Also, the gallery is offering mini photo sessions on Dec. 19, by appointment only. For information, call Tana Brackins at 813-949-6557.

CELEBRATION OF LIGHTS

The Concourse once again will host its Celebration of Lights on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, through Dec. 20.

Friday and Saturday hours are from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday hours are from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.The cost is $20 per carload for the drive-thru experience throughout the property. Get a ticket at the Train Depot for the Grand Concourse Railroad miniature Holiday Train (Friday and Saturday nights only).The Concourse is at 11919 Alric Pottberg Road in Shady Hills.

Tickets are at the gate only (cash, debit and credit cards). For information, visit CelebrationOfLightsFL.org.

LEGO BUILDING

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host “Bricks 4 Kidz: Master Lego Building with Mr. John” on Dec. 22 at 6:30 p.m., for ages 5 to 12.The online class will feature building methods and techniques for all skill levels of builders. Registration is required through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org, or call 813-273-3652.

The Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park, featuring a riverfront ice skating rink and a nightly light show set to holiday music, has opened in downtown Tampa. New this year is a train ride around the park, offering another way to take in the light show. The ice rink will operate at halfcapacity, and tickets must be purchased in advance, at WinterVillageTampa.com.

All skaters must wear masks, and ground decals will help participants to follow social distancing guidelines. No ticket is needed for the Winter Village.The train cars will be limited to one family at a time, and the cars will be sanitized between rides.The train will run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

ART GUILD RESUMES

The West Pasco Art Guild Inc., a nonprofit art association in Pasco County, has reopened for weekly activities.The guild’s goal is to create, foster and sustain interest in the involvement of fine arts, to sponsor education, programs, displays and exhibitions, and to increase the skills of the members and artists in the area.The organization is entirely self-sustaining and receives no state or federal funding. Donations are accepted.Visit WestPascoArtGuild.org for details.

SPOTLIGHT ON TALENT

CHRISTMAS STORY TIME

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a virtual Christmas story time on Dec. 23 at 10 a.m., for kids up to 5 years old, through books, fingerplay, songs and rhymes.View the video at Facebook.com/hughembrylibrary or Facebook.com/newriverlibrary.

The Heritage Arts Center Association is looking for entries to its 38th annual Spotlight on Talent, a performing arts competition for young people through high school seniors.There will be more than $4,000 in cash prizes, and trophies, as well as a $1,000 scholarship awarded to a graduating Pasco County senior.

Applications are available at HeritageArts.org, or at area schools, studios and Chambers of Commerce in East/Central Pasco. Entry deadline is Jan. 28.The preliminary contest will be Feb. 13 and the final show on March 6.There will be a “Plan B” in place if COVID-19 is still active.

SNOWMAN ORNAMENT

LIVING COLOR EXHIBIT

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will offer a story time companion kit for Christmas, while supplies last, on Dec. 23 at 10 a.m.

Participants can make a snowman ornament at home. For information, call 352-567-3576.

WILDLIFE SHOW

The Friends of the Library of TampaHillsborough County will present a “Wonders of Nature Wildlife Education

The Tampa Museum of Art, 120 W. Gasparilla Center, will showcase its newest exhibit,“Living Color:The Art of the Highwaymen,” through March 28.The exhibit brings together 60 paintings from five private collections, featuring the works of the core group of Florida Highwaymen.These celebrated African American artists depicted the state’s natural environment and rich tones through their unique, self-taught painting styles.

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December 16, 2020

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Holiday H Giifts Mask mandates continue Unique Gall llery open Th h hrough h Dec. 23 in Pasco and Hillsborough Monn – Sat 10 too 4 • Christm s as Note Cards (20 2 fo or $9)

By B.C. Manion

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At one point, it appeared that Pasco County might be on the verge of dropping its mask mandate — but that looks unlikely for at least the foreseeable future.

“When I stood before you in September, we were looking at 29 cases a day.We’re up to 207 cases,” Mike Napier, the health officer for the Florida Department of Health — Pasco County told Pasco County commissioners at their Dec. 8 meeting.

“Back in September, when we were looking at 29 cases per day, that was considered a very low case rate. However, we’ve gone in the wrong direction.

“We’re now in the environment where we have what is considered a high case rate, and no end in sight at the moment,” Napier continued.

“Pasco County has the highest positivity rate in the region.

“At 200 cases a day, we could double our total cases from 16,000 to 32,000 in the next three months, if we don’t do anything else.That’s startling.That means 400 cases a day, instead of 200 cases a day.

“We’re not seeing any indicators that these rates will slow until the vaccine is widely available in the spring.

“The recommendation at this point is to continue the emphasis of the importance of social distancing, hand hygiene and face covering,” the public health officer said.

Napier shared additional statistics and trends with the board.

“As of this morning, we’ve had 16,544 positive cases. Something that’s a little bit startling is that 9.5% of those total cases — 1,578 — happened in the last seven days.

So, we are seeing a spike in numbers,” the public health officer said.

“Our 14-day rolling average is up from 5% to almost 10%, so we’ve seen a similar doubling in numbers in positivity rate, as well,” Napier continued.

The county also had 305 deaths related to COVID so far, with a slight increase in the number of deaths occurring during the previous three-week period, Napier said.

“Many of us were concerned back in late June, early July about our cases and our percent positive.We’re surpassing that now.

“Our positivity rate is not equal to what we had during the spike, but has been consistently above 10%.

“Most people are being tested, therefore we’re getting more numbers,” he said.“The concern that I have, honestly, is that we’re getting to the maximum of our ability to test people, currently, to diagnose people with COVID.” He also told board members the increasing number of cases do not appear to be tied to students being back in school.

“We are seeing very limited transmission within the school system,” the Pasco health officer added.“It’s really when the kids go home to their parents, and activities after school.”

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COVID-19 Cases

(As of 8 a.m., Dec. 14) United States: 15,932,116 cases; 296,818 deaths Florida: 1,125,931 cases, 19,866 deaths Pasco County: 17,628 cases; 318 deaths Hillsborough County: 64,967 cases; 986 deaths

Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Florida Department of Health

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Hillsborough survey on vaccines

Hillsborough County is conducting an opinion survey to find out how residents feel about the forthcoming COVID-19 vaccines and to understand what obstacles the community might have to taking a vaccine.

The anonymous survey, offered in English and Spanish, is designed to help County leadership understand respondents’ attitudes and trepidations about the COVID-19 vaccines, according to a Hillsborough County news release.

The survey is intended to help county leaders better plan and execute distribution logistics and campaigns to maximize the number of residents who choose to get vaccinated.

Visit HCFLGov.net/COVIDVaccine to participate in the survey. To participate by text, text “vaccine” to 73224 or “Vacuna” to 73224 to participate in Spanish.

Napier said he understands COVID fatigue:“People are just over it at this point.”

But he added that vigilance to health protocols remains necessary to reduce potential spread.

Hillsborough County’s state of local emergency enacted in response to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has been extended until at least Dec. 17.The county also has extended its mask mandate to at least that date.

The Hillsborough County Commission is expected to discuss its local emergency declaration on Dec. 16.

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HOMES FOR SALE COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO

‘Secret Santas’ step up GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members Dianne Finn and Marguerite Humet recently raised $900 in donations at a community fundraiser for the benefit of Camp Idlewild in Land O’Lakes. The camp provides special programs and activities dedicated to autistic children and those in the spectrum. In addition, Finn and Humet generously donated and delivered more than $1,000 worth of in-kind donations of Christmas décor, lights, wreaths, toys, stuffed animals and much more, to make the Christmas season more festive for the children at the camp. Mariah Pasko (center), Idlewild event coordinator, accepts the donations from Finn, left, and Humet.

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LAND O LAKES Perfect getaway retreat just north of Tampa! 2 bedroom, 2 bath A Frame on beautiful West Lake Ellis. Relax on in your Florida room and gaze on the beautiful water lilies or gather your friends to water ski or fish for a great the weekend getaway. If you want more excitement, this retreat is located in Land O Lakes not far from dining, shopping and entertainment. Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712 ANGUS VALLEY – WESLEY CHAPEL 3/2 SW Mobile home on 1.53 acres in growing Wesley Chapel. 3 minutes from 1-75 and Tampa Premium Outlets.

Great investment. NO CDD or RESTRICTIONS! Owner financing available. Call Irving Hernandez at 813-843-6026 ZEPHRYHILLS One of the last 5 acre homes sites in the area. 3/1 1389 Sq Ft Future land use R-9. 330 Feet of Road front. Large detached Garage / Barn.

Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712 SOLANO BAY TOWNHOUSE off Waters in Tampa.

Lovely 3/2.5 townhouse in a convenient location.

It’s close to everything, great shopping within a mile of the Veterans Expressway. PAINTED 1 YEAR AGO, ALL APPLIANCES INCLUDING WASHER AND DRYER. BRAND NEW!! Laminated floor in great room and new ceramic tile in covered and screened porch with a pond view. GRANITE COUNTER TOP, CERAMIC TILE AND LOT OF CABINETS IN KITCHEN. Good sized bedroom upstairs and laundry room.

Gated community, pool and lots of parking for your guests. HOA fee includes maintenance of exterior, grounds, pool, cable TV and trash collection. Make this dream townhouse yours today! Call Irving Hernandez at 813-843-6026

LAKE LOTS WEEKI WACHEE Beautiful WATERFRONT property!

Build here and watch the sunset over the water

right from your own piece of paradise. Call Stacy Robinson at 813-842-3077 INVERNESS Beautiful lake front property.

Community of nice homes on the lake. Large oak trees on property. Close to shopping in Inverness!

Call Ava Rossler at 727-992-4974

VACANT PROPERTY BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME in Land O' Lakes' coveted Lake Padgett Estates. Great Location, beautiful wooded lot. Ski Lake Access and horse riding stables. NO DEED RESTRICTIONS! Call Cody at 813-909-0712 HUDSON Vacant building lot located in a community. Private boat ramp for residence. Canal goes directly to the Gulf of Mexico through Sea Pines Channel. No bridges. Near the New Sunwest Park. Call Ava Rossler at 727-992-4974.

WOODED BEAUTY BELL LAKE & ALPINE in Land O Lakes. Come build your dream estate or family compound. Great Location, beautiful wooded lot.

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Build on one and sell the other. $299,900. Call Cody at 813-909-0712 SPRING HILL - 31.28 Acres on Bowman Rd Your dream home is waiting to be built! Bring your horses and cows! Plenty of room for all your dreams. Close to Suncoast Parkway. Call Cody at 813-909-0712 DADE CITY LAKE LOT Over 1 acre building lot on beautiful and peaceful Lake Pasadena. Located in the rolling hills of Dade City, this level building lot could be the perfect place for your dream home.

There is a covered sitting area on the dock, so bring your fishing pole and/or favorite beverage and enjoy the sunsets. Power pole and water. Call Cody at 813-909-0712

STOP AND VISIT OUR OFFICE…AGENTS ON DUTY! www.LakerLutzNews.com

December 16, 2020

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meet t meet tHe He DeDICAteD DeDICA C teD teAm WHO WHO K KeePS eePS YOUR YOUR teAm LOCAL NeWSPAPeR NeWSPAPeR G GOING OING LOCAL t HROUGHOUt t tHe He tHROUGHOUt HOLIDAY S SeASON eASON A AND ND HOLIDAY A LL YeAR YeAR LONG! LONG! ALL

COURTESY OF TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Travelers and employees at Tampa International Airport are wearing masks because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health officials recommend against traveling at the holidays But, if you decide to travel, here are some tips to help keep you safe.

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

As the number of COVID-19 infections and deaths continue to rise, health officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are recommending against travel during the Christmas holidays.

The CDC’s website warns:“Travel can increase your chance of spreading and getting COVID-19.”

It also advises:“Postponing travel and staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.”

CDC health experts also note that even if you and your travel companions, including children, feel well and are not exhibiting symptoms, you can still spread COVID-19 to family, friends and community after travel.

“If you have a known exposure to COVID-19, you should delay travel, quarantine yourself from other people, get tested, and monitor your health,” the website advises.

If you do decide to travel, be sure to take these steps during your trip to protect yourself and others from COVID-19, the CDC recommends: • Check travel restrictions before you go • Get your flu shot before you travel • Bring extra supplies, such as masks and hand sanitizer • Do not travel if you or your travel companions are sick • Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public settings, including on public transportation and in transportation hubs, such as airports and stations • Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart, about two arm-lengths, from anyone who is not from your travel group • Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).

• Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

TRAVELING BY AIR?

• Masks are required for all employees, passengers and visitors at Tampa International Airport.The airport will provide masks to passengers, if necessary, which can be found at the information kiosk, in the main terminal. Masks are available for purchase at the airport’s newsstands. Masks should be worn over your mouth and nose at all times, except for when you are eating or drinking.

• There are social distancing stickers and markers throughout the airport, to keep passengers and employees at a safe distance from one another. Blocked seating exists at all gates, and there are plexiglass shields where passengers may interact with employees.Try to observe the CDC’s recommended 6 feet of social distance. As a point of reference, 6 feet is about the length of two rolling carryon bags.

• Wash/sanitize your hands frequently.

There are plenty of sinks and soap, and also strategically placed hand sanitizing stations throughout the airport. Hand sanitizer and wipes also can be purchased at newsstands, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to carry up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in carry-on luggage.

• Go touchless. Use mobile boarding passes, fill a reusable bottle at water bottle-filling stations, and use touchless payment at shops and restaurants. All of the airport’s shops, restaurants and kiosks accept credits cards, and some allow you to swipe your card in front of sensors to pay without ever pressing a button. If you do have to exchange cards or cash with an employee, be sure to wash or sanitize your hands immediately after.

• Carry on your luggage when possible; that limits the number of hands touching bags. It also allows passengers to bypass baggage claims areas, and streamlines your journey from curbside to the gate, and back.

• Arrive early. For domestic flights, plan on arriving at least two hours early; for international flights, plan on arriving at least three hours early. That’s especially important, to avoid congestion at TSA checkpoints.

TRAVELING BY CAR?

• Plan ahead: Check with state and local authorities, along your route, and at your planned destination to learn about local circumstances and any restrictions that may be in place.

• Follow public health guidance.Also, be sure to pack face masks, disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer and a thermometer to help protect and monitor your health. Also pack water and extra snacks to reduce the need to stop along your trip.

• Before any hotel stay, call ahead to ensure your hotel is open and ask what precautions they are taking to protect guests.

Ask about social distancing protocols, such as capacity reductions in common spaces, hotel staff requirements to wear masks at all times and if all amenities are available, such as restaurant dining.

• Car rentals – If renting a car, ask what has been done to clean the vehicle. For extra peace of mind, use disinfecting wipes to wipe down door handles, steering wheels, shifters and control panels.

THESE ARE TRYING TIMES It is more important than ever to have a plan for yourself and your estate. We can help you plan for the future and make sure your family is protected.

Call Babatola Durojaiye today. His mission is to help you plan ahead with wills, trusts and estate planning. It may cost less than you think and would help give you peace of mind in these times.

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December 16, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

faith &

2020 Holiday Services and Activities

Worship

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Christmas Eve Drive Inn Worship Dec. 24th Drive In Ser vic e T imes: 12:00pm, 4:00pm and 7:00pm 7

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“First Baptist Family Christmas”

Christmas Eve Service

Sunday, December 20 10:30am

Thursday, December 24 6:00pm

FIRST PRESBYTE ERIAN CHURCH of Dade City

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT CA COMMUNION

5:00 p.m.

Open evening 6-8 pm December 21-23 Come in for Christmas music, cocoa and cookies to go

Discover the True Meaning of Christmas Every Sunday in December Bible Study 9:00am • Worship Time 10:30am

Follow the Light Celebrate the Birth of our Lord Jesus Christ

Christmas Eve

Choral Concert • 6:30 p.m.

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Christmas Day Holy Eucharist • 10 a.m.

Services will comply with COVID-19 protocols. Please wear a mask and abide by six-feet distancing. Maximum seating is 150 with overflow seating available.

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MAY YO U HOLIDA R SEASON Y FILLED BE PEACE, WITH & HAP LOVE PINESS www.LakerLutzNews.com

December 16, 2020

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Acceptance notifications for secondary grades will be made between Feb. 19 and Feb. 28.

Elementary grades acceptance notifications will be from March 12 and March 26.

To complete a school choice application, a parent must have an active parent account in myStudent.

Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com

‘THE PERFECT STORM’

Saint Leo University and FIRST-Florida’s Forensics Institute for Research Security & Tactics will present a look at how officials deployed and the best practices they implemented at “The Perfect Storm 2020: Navigating a Historic Hurricane Season during a Global Pandemic Symposium” on Dec. 17 at 10 a.m., via Zoom.

The free webinar will discuss lessons learned from public safety officials regarding their preparedness and response efforts during the current COVID-19 pandemic and what turned into the most active hurricane season in history.

Federal, state and local officials will exchange perspectives and ideas, and offer the best practices to improve all phases of emergency management.

The event is open to the public, criminal justice and emergency management personnel, Saint Leo students, prospective students, and alumni.

To register, visit SaintLeo.edu/perfectstorm.

OPEN APPLICATION WINDOWS

The Pasco Pathways Innovative Programs and School Choice selections for the 20212022 school year can be found online at Pasco.k12.fl.us/school_choice_catalog/catalog.

The controlled open enrollment window for elementary and secondary grades opens on Jan. 7 at 8 a.m., and closes on Jan. 21 at 4:30 p.m.

WATER CONSERVATION CONTEST

More than 1,700 local students showcased their creativity for conservation during the 11th annual Water Awareness Poster Contest, featuring student artwork from 26 classrooms across 14 elementary schools.

The contest, hosted by Pasco County Utilities and the Florida Government Utility Authority, in collaboration with Pasco County Schools, was aimed at educating future generations about the importance of sustainable water.

This year’s “Drippy’s Big Adventure” detective theme took students on a journey, with mascot Drippy, to solve the mystery of where water comes from, how it’s cleaned and how it arrives in their homes.

Student artwork was judged based on science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) learning standards.

Each award-winning student received a trophy and admission passes from this year’s sponsors: Bricks & Minifigs, Clearwater Marine Aquarium,The Florida Aquarium, The Lift Adventure Park and Urban Air Adventure Park.

All participants students received a free kid’s meal from Chick-fil-A of Trinity and a free ice cream from Cold Stone Creamery & Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory of Trinity.

Visit WaterContest.org for details on next year’s registration dates, and the winning artwork.

COURTESY OF OFFICE OF KATHY CASTOR

Leo Sterns

Military academies nominees U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor has announced the names of 24 students, representing more than a dozen local high schools, that received nominations for admission into the nation’s military academies: Air Force (USAFA), Navy (USNA), Army (USMA), and Merchant Marine (USMMA), in a news release.

Nominations are earned based upon each student’s interview with Castor’s nomination committee, their academic record, participation in extracurricular activities and demonstrated leadership qualities.

Based upon the process established

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

Trying to locate your favorite community newspaper?

Visit www.LakerLutzNews.com for a list of pick up locations!

Sohan Khanvilkar

Hanley Riggs, of Lutz, qualified for the fall 2020 Dean’s List at Belmont University in Nashville,Tennessee.

These local students graduated from the University of Tampa: • Kathryn Adamski, Lutz: Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations • Bryce Benedict, Lutz: Master of Science in Finance • Cory Burke, Odessa: Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship • Mesa Danglert, Lutz: Master of Science in Entrepreneurship • Kearsten DeGolyer, Odessa: Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry • Emma Gombert, Lutz: Master of Business Administration • Brooke Santiesteban, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Human Performance

by federal law, all U.S. military academies, except the Coast Guard Academy, require either a service-connected or congressional nomination (from a member of Congress, U.S. senator, or the vice president of the United States).

Nominees who receive an appointment from a U.S. military academy will attend their respective academies in the 2021-2022 school year.

Nominated students in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area are Leo Sterns, Gaither High School and Valdosta State (Georgia), USAFA; and Sohan Khanvilkar, Steinbrenner High School, USAFA.

• Trevor Toma, Lutz: Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity • Jeffrey Valente, Lutz: Master of Science in Accounting

VICTORY HIGH SCHOOL

Victory High School, the first Recovery High School in Tampa Bay, will open on Jan. 6 in the Calvary Chapel Worship Center, 6825 Trouble Creek Road in New Port Richey. The space will be leased, as the school is not part of the church ministry.

Victory High is a private, nonprofit school for teens in recovery from substanceuse disorders or co-occurring disorders, according to the school’s website. And, all staff and volunteers are trained in trauma responsive services.

For more information, please visit VictoryHighSchool.net.

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SHOPPING, from page 1A

COURTESY OF PASCO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL INC.

Pasco County officials and representatives from Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., and Santander Consumer USA celebrate the agreement expected to attract 875 jobs to Pasco County.

JOBS, from page 1A he said.

It “was also a search for sustainable talent pipeline in a community with great livability,” he said.

Santander Consumer USA will be investing $22 FILE million in Pasco County, Santander plans to renovate and occupy 115,425 square feet Cronin said.

“The company will be of the former Target store building, at 16400 State Road 54, in paying over 115% of our cur- Odessa. The big box store has been vacant since 2016. rent county average wage,” Cronin added. pany. It’s equivalent to $391 a job,” Engel The agreement details that Pasco’s aver- said. age annual wage paid to workers in all The incentive agreement notes that industries is $38,338, as reported by Santander intends to make interior and exteEnterprise Florida Inc., and compiled by the rior renovations of 115,425 square feet of the State of Florida, Agency for Workforce old Target store, at 16400 State Road 54, in Innovation, Labor Market Statistics.

Odessa.

Santander has agreed to create the 875 Backup materials for the board’s agenda jobs within five years, and to pay at least item note:“The staff recommendation to ap$46,283 in average annual income for those prove the tangible tax reimbursement in this jobs.To qualify for the incentive, a job must case is based on the unique aspects of this be staffed for at least one year. project since it involves the redevelopment Santander also will be offering career op- and occupancy of a former “big box” retail portunities for the county’s bilingual building by a qualified target industry, at sigworkforce, which is expected to help the nificant expense, in one of the county’s most county’s Hispanic population — which important high visibility economic growth makes up the county’s largest ethnic popula- and job creation corridors.”

It adds: “The recommended tax reimtion, Cronin said.

“The economic impact to gross county bursement incentive in this case should not product to Pasco is $129 million over the be considered a precedent for reimbursement for interior improvements that may be next five years,” Cronin added.

Their parent company, Banco Santander, made by other companies in the future, even is located in Spain, Cronin said, describing it if such companies qualify for a job creation incentive or are a qualified target industry.” as one of the world’s largest banks.

Background materials in the agreement “If you have an automobile loan in Latin America, it’s probably from Santander,” he note that Santander qualifies as a targeted industry, in the financial services sector. said.

A table in the agreement lays out the comIn fact, Cronin added,“Banco Santander was named, just last week, Bank of the Year pany’s plans to gradually add the 875 in the Americas, Brazil, Spain and Argentina, employees, beginning with 400 in 2021, with

by The Banker, which is a global financial in- a total of 875 by 2025. telligence organization in London.”

Ernie Ocasio, a senior vice president of Engel spelled out the terms of the eco- Santander Consumer USA, told county offinomic incentive package. cials that the company is eager to come to “For the 875 jobs, the Pasco EDC recom- Pasco, and praised the county’s rich remends a $1,750,000 to be paid out over a sources.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn 10-year period, and a 10-year tangible tax reimbursement, totaling up to $342,000,” Engel Starkey remarked that she had been so upset about news of the Super Target’s closing that said.

Years one through five the incentive will she had appealed to company officials to try be 50% of Santander’s tangible tax and years to keep it open. It turns out that this new use six through 10 will be 25% of their tangible is better for the county than having a big retailer at that location, the commissioner said. tax, he added.

Commissioners unanimously approved “This, in fact, is the most cost-effective job creation incentive that we’ve offered a com- Santander’s incentive package.

ALCOHOL, from page 1A

a selection. Corcoran Partners did not participate in the presentations.

the issue at a board meeting in September.

“A lot of counties in the state and around the country have kind of moved away from this old-fashioned law,” Starkey said, at the time.

She said constituents had told her they’d like to get rid of the restriction, and said she’d previously witnessed people milling around in the grocery store, waiting so they could purchase alcohol to take with them when they were headed out to go boating, scalloping or to another activity.

She also said people who shop for groceries on Sunday morning shouldn’t be prevented from buying alcohol.

The board also approved the selection of Shawn Foster LLC, doing business as Sunrise Consulting Group, to serve as the board’s outside consultant for a maximum of $60,000 a year.The board listened to presentations by Foster and by a representative for Shumaker Advisers Florida LLC before selecting Sunrise.

At a board meeting in November, a panel of county staffers had recommended Corcoran and Associates, doing business as Corcoran Partners, be selected as the outside lobbyist.

But, commissioners rejected the process and requested presentations before making

IN OTHER ACTION, COMMISSIONERS:

• Reorganized the board naming Ron Oakley as chairman and Starkey as vice chairwoman.

• Approved numerous small changes to the county’s land development code, including a change in the process to approve permits to sell alcohol. Previously, those requests were heard by the Pasco County Planning Commission, which made a recommendation and then by Pasco County Commission, which had the final authority. Now, those requests will be considered administratively by county staff, unless some sort of exception is requested.The Pasco County Commission will decide on those cases, unless there’s an appeal.

• Approved a unified sign plan for Krate, at the Grove at Wesley Chapel, to provide applicants with an opportunity to create attractive signage having uniform or cohesive design of color, texture, materials, or architectural features which contribute to place-making throughout the development. Krate, which is under development, is an open-air, urbanthemed container park with retail shops, restaurants, outdoor seating areas, and live entertainment. The Grove is east of Oakley Boulevard and west of Interstate 75, about 650 feet north of Wesley Chapel Boulevard.

Target,’’ Berenguer said.“There are a bunch of other retailers out there, along with many small local businesses. These are places to find some good buys and maybe find something really cool.

“If you’re going to the brick-and-mortar store, make sure that store is open. Some may be offering curbside service.You’ve got to have your hand sanitizer and mask. You should research the busy times, especially if you want to avoid crowds.

“Whether you’re online or in person, be ready for shortages and delays.There are issues finding gifts and even the necessities of daily life.You’ve got to be ready for an item not to be there. With everyone shipping everything, be prepared for delays and other issues.’’

SAVING YOUR MONEY

Who doesn’t want to save money? It can be as easy as doing extensive Google searches, especially on big-ticket electronic items to unearth competitive prices and deals.

“Black Friday’’ is no longer just one day.

Now it lasts for weeks. Major retailers everywhere are offering deep discounts that will linger through the holidays.

“You should look into price-tracking apps and coupon apps because there are a ton of them out there,’’ Berenguer said.

“Price-tracking apps can help you compare prices with all the major retailers and maybe some others that you hadn’t considered. There are lots of coupons out there and they add up.You just have to seek them out.

“Also remember to use your credit card and store loyalty programs.Those points add up and sometimes we forget about them. If you keep up with those, it can significantly lower the cost of your purchases. But, you’ve got to stay organized.’’

SAVING YOUR SANITY

If you don’t have your holiday shopping wrapped up before Thanksgiving, you must exercise patience, planning and good humor.

To avoid frustration, check shipping timelines before your purchase.There’s always a backlog at the holidays — but especially during the pandemic.

“Most retailers are good about establishing the timelines and letting you know about potential delays,’’ Berenguer said.“If you don’t need it to get there by Christmas, keep in mind that you could ask for a discount on the shipping.

“Be aware of the return policies. One of the biggest hang-ups on returns for gifts are people who don’t have the receipt. Keep all your emails concerning the purchase because it’s the same thing as a paper receipt.

And, if you’re just not sure what to buy someone — that can be stressful, too — gift cards are always a good option. It can be for a local shop, an experience. Sometimes, people value experiences over products.’’

SAFETY AND SECURITY

It’s not just about masks and hand sanitizers. When it comes to holiday shopping, you need protection from the proliferation of scams.

“People are finding more inventive ways to take your money,’’ Berenguer said. “You can’t forget that when you’re shopping.’’

That applies when doing your research.

“Carefully consider the online reviews,’’ Berenguer said. “Not all are honest.

Companies buy fake positive reviews.

Competing companies buy fake negative reviews.You’ve got to vet them, read between the lines and look at a lot of them to pick up on patterns.

“Also, be very skeptical of social media ads.You will see really deep discounts popping up on your Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Be wary. Sometimes, these products don’t even exist. If someone is trying to sell you a $700 television for $100, and it seems too good to be true, it probably is.’’

Berenguer cautioned to only shop on secure Web sites (look for the https:// prefix, which indicates that your data is secure and not out there for all to see).

“Your data is extremely valuable in this day and age,’’ Berenguer said.“You have to safeguard that data. You probably notice these very targeted ads on your social media accounts. Companies want to find out about you and what you are purchasing.

“You have to be proactive. Make sure you always update your safety features.

Change your passwords. Don’t volunteer information or data.They want access to your location, your data, your microphone — and you should immediately say no to all of that.’’

Berenguer said it’s wise to use intermediate payment methods — such as PayPal, Apple Pay or Google Pay — in order to have a firewall between the retailer and your credit card information.You shouldn’t keep your payment information stored on any retail sites for convenience — even reliable ones — because any site can be hacked.

“My rule of thumb is give the least amount of data as possible,’’ Berenguer said.

“When you sign up for coupons or take surveys, your information will be aggregated and you’ll get ads you don’t want. I use a secondary email and call it my junk email. I give a fake last name.You’re not obligated to provide this information and if you are pressured to do so, I would carefully consider whether you want to use that service.You have to protect your interests because no one else is going to do that.’’

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9A

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Raptors training camp a slam dunk at Saint Leo

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

W

hen it comes to melding professional sports and higher education, Saint Leo University has been known as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ exclusive educational partner.

The partnership, which began in 2019, has featured traditional in-stadium and inmarket advertising, digital and social features. and other unique fan elements.

Most visible elements can be seen along massive interstate billboards and signage throughout Raymond James Stadium.

Over the last month, the university scored another professional sports franchise partner, albeit for a brief period.

Saint Leo’s on-campus Marion Bowman Activities Center served as preseason training camp host for the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, from Dec. 1 through Dec. 11.

The Raptors journey to Saint Leo and the Bay Area came by way of circumstance.

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the franchise was unable to start the 2020-2021 regular season in Toronto due to CanadaU.S. border restrictions.

Needing a temporary home in the U.S., the Raptors’ players voted to begin their 2020-2021 season in Tampa over cities such as Buffalo, Fort Lauderdale, Louisville, Nashville and Newark.

Raptors “home” games — at least initially — will be played at Amalie Arena, the homesite of the NHL’s Tampa Bay Lightning, at 401 Channelside Drive in Tampa. The scheduled 72-game regular season begins Dec. 22 and is expected to run through May 16.The Raptors announced at least 17 home games will be played at Amalie Arena in the first half of the NBA season.

Besides the home arena, the Raptors, too, needed someplace nearby to hold its two weeklong training camps while construction was underway on a makeshift practice court inside a hotel ballroom at JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, in downtown Tampa.

And, that’s when some deep coaching ties came to assist.

COURTESY OF SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS

Saint Leo men’s basketball coach Lance Randall leveraged his friendship with Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse to help lure the NBA franchise to hold preseason camp at the university campus.

COACHING CONNECTIONS

Saint Leo men’s basketball coach Lance Randall has known Raptors head coach Nick Nurse for over 20 years.

It’s a relationship dating back to when the pair was coaching against each other in Europe, more specifically in the British Basketball League. Both also coached England’s Birmingham Bullets at separate times in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

They’ve remained friendly ever since.

“There’s not a ton of American coaches over there (in Europe),” Randall recently told The Laker/Lutz News,“so you tend to get to be closer with guys that are American when you’re over there and make some sort of connections and bonds.”

It was sometime in mid-November when Randall received a random text message from Nurse, inquiring about the college’s basketball facilities as a possible camp site, as the team made preparations for a move stateside.

Randall subsequently went into recruiting pitch mode, self-assured the Bowman Center would be a slam dunk for the Raptors.

The Bowman Center has 10 basketball hoops, two full-size courts and a 4,444square-foot weight room.

The facility also has a balcony overlooking the practice gym, which allowed team scouts and management to get a bird’s-eye view of all the action.

Add to that a serene setting devoid of distractions in rural East Pasco County, off State Road 52, some 35 miles north of the team’s downtown Tampa hotel stay.

Raptors representatives were on-campus within a week of the original text conversation, touring the facility with Randall and other university officials. They also took a look at Lake Jovita and some of the surrounding areas.

The NBA franchise clearly liked what it saw from the in-person visit.

“We have a great gym for getting better,” Randall said.“We have a lot of baskets, we have a great floor, and it just kind of made sense. And, the students are off-campus, so from that standpoint, it just kind of fell into place.”

The timing also worked for Randall’s own program.

With the status of the NCAA Division II and Sunshine State Conference season and games in limbo, Randall had no qualms with

COURTESY OF TORONTO RAPTORS

Toronto Raptors veteran guard Fred VanVleet hones his jump shot inside Saint Leo University’s Marion Bowman Activities Center.

having his team conducting some routine practices at Academy at the Lakes, in Land O’ Lakes. End-of-semester final exams also took place during the time of Raptors training camp, meaning Randall’s squad was due for a break anyway.

HOME AWAY FROM HOME

For the duration of Raptors training camp, buses shuttled players, coaches and officials to Saint Leo, generally between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., each day.

As many as four shuttle buses could be seen parked at any one time next to the Bowman Center.

Raptors management strived to normalize the temporary setting, wrapping the university’s fitness center, end mats and other portions of the arena in team logos and its signature red and black color scheme.

Practices were closed to the media and public, but both Randall and Saint Leo athletics director were able to view some action from afar, at least in the early portion of training camp.

For them, it was a surreal experience witnessing an NBA team on Saint Leo’s hardwood floor, let alone one that won an NBA title in 2019 and has secured a playoff berth seven years running.

“It’s great to watch pros who really do work,” said Reidy.“You know, they didn’t get there by accident, right?

“When I was watching these guys, they’re working at their game, they’re not going through the motions. There’s guys that work out before the team practice or after the team practice on their individual part, and obviously they work on the team concept in the middle, but it is interesting to see how hard these guys work.

“To see guys that were winning an NBA championship a year ago (in 2019) in your gym with arguably one of the best coaches in the league, it was really fun to watch,” Reidy said.

Randall added:“They really just kind of locked in. They’re very professional about

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how they do things and they’ve been a great group, just a really classy organization.

They’ve got a culture of winning and doing things the right way, and really it’s embodied everything they do, even just simple things like meeting and greeting.”

From a coach’s perspective, Randall also was captivated by the team’s “attention to detail, and the ability to facilitate those details on a moment’s notice.”

It was a valuable learning tool for his own basketball staff, he said.

On the flip side, Raptors players and coaches came away quite pleased with the university’s Southern hospitality.

In a recent Zoom media conference during camp, Nurse joyfully mentioned that Randall’s wife had baked chocolate chip cookies for the entire team.

“That’s how special the touches are around here,” said Nurse, the 2020 NBA Coach of the Year.“They’ve been gracious, gracious hosts.”

Nurse praised the Bowman Center’s basketball facilities, too. He noted how its 10 hoops are distinctly spaced out in the arena, which allowed the team’s 20-man roster to get adequate individual work in without encroaching on each other.

“We’ve got 20 players here, you’ve got a lot of bodies,” said Nurse,“so you need a lot of baskets to keep everybody active, and getting required shots in and form shooting work, and all that stuff going.”

He added:“The facilities here are perfect, really perfect, and we’re happy and fortunate we chose here and that they were able to accommodate us.”

Raptors all-star power forward Pascal Siakam likewise came away satisfied with Saint Leo’s digs.

“I think it’s been great,” Siakam said of the training camp experience at Saint Leo.“I would say we’ve been blessed to be able to have a facility like that. Definitely a shout out to Saint Leo for letting us use the gym and be a part of what they have here.

“I think it’s been great just being here and having everything under one roof. I just know, obviously, we appreciate it as a team.”

BRANDING BOOST

Those types of responses gratified Saint Leo’s athletics director, confirming the university’s sports facilities and amenities are top-notch and pro-caliber.

“We do have really good facilities.We’ve known that for a long time.Anytime we can get other people to campus, they realize the same thing. But, when a professional team comes to campus, I think it validates what you’ve been saying,” said Reidy.

Besides validation, the partnership in with the Canadian-based NBA franchise has yielded other benefits for the private Catholic university with an undergraduate on-campus enrollment of 2,000-plus.

Saint Leo naturally has gotten quite an exposure boost over the last several weeks — becoming the subject of much local, regional, national and international media attention.

Reidy believes it all could be a windfall for recruiting new student-athletes in the future.

2020-2021 Toronto Raptors roster Players • OG Anunoby, forward • Aron Baynes, center-forward • DeAndre’ Bembry, guard-forward • Chris Boucher, forward-center • Oshae Brissett, forward-guard • Terence Davis, guard • Henry Ellenson, forward-center • Malachi Flynn, guard • Jalen Harris, guard • Alize Johnson, forward • Stanley Johnson, forward-guard • Alex Len, center • Kyle Lowry, guard • Patrick McCaw, guard • Malcolm Miller, guard-forward • Norman Powell, guard • Pascal Siakam, forward • Matt Thomas, guard • Fred VanVleet, guard • Yuta Watanabe, guard-forward • Paul Watson, guard Staff • Nick Nurse, head coach • Adrian Griffin, assistant • Sergio Scariolo, assistant • Jim Sann, assistant • Chris Finch, assistant • Scott McCullough, trainer

And, not just in hoops, but even in sports like men’s lacrosse, which has seven Canadian-born players on its 2021 roster.

“We have a bunch of Canadians on our (men’s lacrosse) team, so this certainly is not going to hurt our recruiting,” Reidy said.

“Because the Raptors have been here, now those kids will know that,‘Well the Raptors were at Saint Leo, then it must be the real deal,’ so it has been a really good brand for us, really helped us at a time when we haven’t played any sports (due to the COVID-19 pandemic), we were kind of in need of a little spark, and this has been a very good experience.”

This is actually not the first time Saint Leo has played host to an NBA team.

The New Jersey Nets in 1996 held preseason training camp at the college, lodging at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel.

That partnership also happened by way of a coaching connection.

Then Nets rookie head coach John Calipari had served as a graduate assistant in 1982 at the University of Kansas under Ted Owens, Saint Leo’s athletic director at the time.

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS INSIDE: Directories, Classifieds, Games & More

B

DECEMBER 16, 2020

Flying Eight-Balls member survived 30 missions Knowing Your History

By Doug Sanders Special to The Laker/Lutz News

A

t 6 feet and weighing less than 140 pounds, Jim Rossman was 20 years old in 1944, when he nearly lost his life over the English Channel in World War II. A copilot of a B-24 heavy bomber, Rossman would fly 30 missions — and survive daylight attacks from Adolf Hitler’s German Luftwaffe.

"I don't know how we did it," Rossman told The St. Petersburg Times in 2005. "I guess we were young."

As the future owner of Pasco County Insurance Agency in Dade City, Rossman had his part in the “Greatest Generation,” a time in our nation’s history described by Tom Brokaw’s best-selling novel about the sacrifices and struggles made by veterans in World War II. Rossman’s journey with history began with as many bananas and milkshakes as he could consume to put on enough weight to make the cut with the Army Air Forces.

He was a teenager living in Tampa when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941.

Soon after that fateful event, Jim Rossman joined up at MacDill Field in Tampa.

His group, known as the Flying EightBalls, would later set sail for the United Kingdom aboard the Queen Mary on Sep. 4, 1942.

Decorated on one side with a winged bomb cartoon of a pool hall 8-Ball, Rossman’s B-24 Liberator had a thin metal skin that offered little protection against German strafing in the air, or antiaircraft fire from below.

"You'd see that plane coming in at you, firing those guns, you knew you were in for it," Rossman said in his interview with The St. Petersburg Times.

A full account of the American Air Offensive against Nazi Germany is archived at the American Air Museum in Britain.

Located north of London, visitors can read a document that details the story behind the formation of the 44th Bombardment Group at Shipdam, England, and you can learn the heroic story behind Rossman and the Flying Eight-Balls.

On March 12, 1944, Rossman and his men were scheduled for a sixth mission deep into Germany when bad weather forced them to take an alternate target, the museum records show.

A closer target meant more fuel reserves.

But, when flying over France, they were suddenly attacked by enemy fire.

“We (received) some antiaircraft or flak damage and lost one engine over the target,” Rossman recounted.

Since Rossman’s crew was part of the Flying Eight-Balls that day with worsening weather, the pilots returning with the most aircraft damage dropped through the clouds first and then attempted a landing.

“Unfortunately, there was more damage to (our) fuel tanks and after flying around for 3 ½-hours it came our turn to let down.

We did this and flew into the clear at some 600 feet and quickly spotted a small English Fighter Base with a grass landing strip,” Rossman said, according to the museum’s records.

Rossman’s navigator did the best he could heading the B-24 Liberator in a general direction that took them out over the English Channel.

It was then they lost another engine.

“A B-24 doesn't fly well on two engines and we certainly couldn't climb,” the historic document says.

Rossman and his crew cleared the White Cliffs of Dover.

Then, they flew under a high-tension power line that was 200 feet high.

With a landing in sight, Rossman’s crew lost the third engine.

COURTESY OF JIM ROSSMAN/TED JOHNSON

Jim Rossman’s ‘Heaven Can Wait’ crew in World War II. Rossman was cross-trained to fly the B-17 Flying Fortress and the B-25 Mitchell medium bomber.

COURTESY OF AMERICAN AIR MUSEUM

At its peak strength in 1944, the U.S. Army Air Forces employed 450,000 Americans in Britain. That included operating the first U.S. heavy bomber airfield pictured here in England at Shipdam. Nearly 30,000 of these Americans never made it back home.

“By the grace of God and nothing else, I looked out my right window and there in perfect position for landing was the fighter strip.With no time to prepare or make decisions we turned to line up with the strip.

(We) made a picture-perfect belly landing, sliding in on the grass, each moment expecting the plane to disintegrate and kill us all,” Rossman said, as recorded in the museum’s archives.

The crew members of Rossman’s B-24 boosted each other out of the aircraft when it started to burst into flames.

Black smoke quickly engulfed the crash site.

“After we were taken to the hospital on this English base to be checked out, something unusual happened. Hospital attendants came bearing a man on a stretcher. He had been cleaning the windshield on an English fighter parked there. He looked up at the last moment to see (our aircraft) pass over his head.With all engines dead we made no noise and the shock almost caused him to have a heart attack,” Rossman recounted.

The crew of 10 men made it back to flying duty at Shipdam.

"I was always real careful, real conservative," Rossman said in his interview sixteen years ago.

He made his final bombing run on May 30, 1944.

A week later, the Allied forces began the D-Day invasion along the beaches of France.

Jim Rossman found out the airlines did not want to hire such a youthful-looking

COURTESY OF JIM ROSSMAN/TED JOHNSON

Jim Rossman and his crew survived this crash landing despite having a full load of bombs and 164,700 pounds of fuel, approximately 2,700 gallons, onboard.

pilot like him when the war was over.

That is when he decided to get into the insurance business.

He hired Scott Black, another youthfullooking man who later became a commissioner and mayor of Dade City.

“Jim was a fine gentleman and a very good friend,” recalled Ted Johnson at the time of Rossman’s death in October 2014.

Johnson visited the American Air Museum in Britain years later, where he was able to take updated photographs to bring back to Jim Rossman in Dade City.

Much of Ted’s research overseas was used as a reference for this column and is a part of the story behind the formation of

the 44th Bombardment Group at Shipdam, England.

“He is a real hero in my book,” said Johnson, who also is vice president of the Zephyrhills Military Museum in East Pasco County.

Rossman’s story is so special, Johnson said, it should be preserved and shared.

Doug Sanders has a penchant for unearthing interesting stories about local history. His sleuthing skills have been developed through his experiences in newspaper and government work. If you have an idea for a future history column, contact Doug at interstar1@juno.com.

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Karen Whitenton, of Lutz, found this brown thrasher hanging around her yard for about a month, foraging for food and flipping bark mulch chips in the flower beds.

The thrasher is about the size of a robin and known to be an exuberant singer.

A portion of donations received will support The Rotary Club of W We esley Chapel in sponsorin ng foster children fo for the Holidays, the Underdog Fund, Lo ocal Scholarships and the W We esley Chapel Com mmunity y..

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HOSTED BY:

PET PAWS REPORT SKUNK SIGHTINGS

COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM

Boulder brain coral

PROTECTING CORAL POPULATION

Scientists with the Coral Rescue Project and the Southeast Florida Coral Reef Restoration Hub have taken offspring from rescued corals and successfully outplanted them on Florida’s Coral Reef, bringing together two large collaborative projects focused on protecting and restoring Florida’s coral populations, according to a Florida Aquarium news release.

The Coral Rescue Project is a multiagency effort led by The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries in response to the outbreak of stony coral tissue loss disease effecting more than 20 species of reef-building coral.

As part of the project, boulder brain corals were removed from Florida’s coral reef in 2018, before they were exposed to the disease. The corals then spawned in human care at The Florida Aquarium’s Center for Conservation in Apollo Beach.

After 14 months, the juvenile coral offspring were outplanted on Florida’s coral reef near Key Biscayne by scientists at The University of Miami and the FWC. The 375 outplanted boulder brain corals will be monitored for growth, survivorship, and potential exposure to stony coral tissue loss disease.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has launched a new community science project aimed at learning more about Florida’s skunk populations.

The Sunshine State is home to two species of skunks — the striped skunk and the smaller eastern spotted skunk. Both are thought to be found throughout the state, and biologists are hoping to involve the public in collecting observations to learn more about the distribution of both species and the types of habitats in which they are found.

“There’s still a lot we don’t know about skunks in Florida,” said FWC Mammal Conservation Coordinator Terry Doonan, in a news release.

“By reporting skunk sightings, you could make a big difference.Your information will help inform future skunk research and habitat management practices,” Doonan said.

To report a skunk sighting, visit MyFWC.com/SkunkSurvey and fill out the easy-to-use online form, or email information about the sighting, including species, date, time, location and any photos to Skunks@myFWC.com.

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SHARE YOUR PET NEWS

If you have pet news about adoptions, walks or other events for pet owners and their pets, you can let us know by sending us an email. We just need the basics: who, what, when, where and why.

The information should be submitted two weeks prior to the desired publication date. We also need a contact name and number, in case we have questions.

There is no guarantee of publication, but we consider each item we receive.

If you’d like to make a submission, send it to news@lakerlutznews.com.

Readers can now find Pets of the Week and Local Wildlife photos on our website at LakerLutznews.com, under the Pets/Wildlife link.

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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS WORD SEARCH & SUDOKU ACCOMPLISHED AMUSES BOARD BRAIN CHECKERS CHESS CLUE CROSSWORD

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The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

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December 16, 2020

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A great way to get into the holiday spirit is to enjoy holiday lights from your car, while maintaining social distance.

As you visit a community display or check out decorations in your neighborhood, though, remember to stay safe on the road to avoid unnecessary risks behind the wheel. “Drive-thru events and activities have been a go-to for family fun throughout 2020,� Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA-The Auto Club Group, said in a news release. “Personal vehicles can help you safely share in the joys of the season, but combining driving with other activities could land you on the naughty list,� Jenkins said.

The Auto Club offers these safety reminders, to help you keep safe when you are viewing light displays, while driving:

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• Watch for pedestrians, especially in residential areas. People on foot may be more interested in the lights, than oncoming traffic. • Remain seated and buckled, even while parked on the roadside. • Pull over if you need to program your navigation system, check a map, take pictures, or do anything that will take your attention off the task of driving.You can also delegate those tasks to a passenger. • Do not come to a complete stop in a traffic lane. If you encounter someone who has stopped, only pass if it is safe and legal to do so. • If you visit a drive-thru event and are asked to turn off your headlights, remember to turn them back on when you exit the display.

As always, check weather and roadway conditions before you go out.

Commission fights human trafficking

WE MA AT TCH CURREN NT LIQUOR & WIN NE ADS!

The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report The Pasco County Commission has re-established and expanded the functions of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking to “more robustly serve the community,� based on an action at the board’s Nov. 17 meeting.

Since 2014, the human trafficking commission has received regional, statewide and national recognition for its advocacy on behalf of human trafficking victims and survivors, according to the board’s agenda materials.

Under its expanded mission, the commission’s goals are to promote awareness of the

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problem in Pasco,Tampa Bay and Florida; to establish educational programs within the community on how to recognize human trafficking and procedures for reporting trafficking; to advocate strategies, including financial assistance, that will aid rescued and surviving victims; and, to support other individuals and programs that have similar goals.

As part of its public awareness efforts, the commission will continue its media campaign.The group also will make scholarships or other financial support available to students or individuals who want to expand their knowledge of human trafficking by attending educational programs.

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With thoughts of you at Christmas

It’’s Ti Time T To o Get Yo our Flu V Va accination Special to The Laker / Lutz News

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early influenza vaccinations are extremely important because it builds the body’s immune system to respond and fight offf viral infection. And getting a flu shot this year takes on added importance because flu and new coronavirus symptoms are nearly identical.

“I recommend yearly vaccinations, but if a person hasn’t had one in a while, this year is the year to do it,” said Steve Lee, M.D., president of the Conviva Physician Group, a physician-led network operating in nine markets in Florida and Te Texas.

“W We specialize in the care of seniors, and since they fall into the highrisk category, I encourage our patients and the general public to get vaccinated to protect against this highly contagious virus,” he said.

People who receive an annual flu shots normally have very few side efffects, unless a new, significantly diffferent strain of vaccine is introduced. Based on epidemiological tracking studies, the human body builds up a substantial immune system response to combat influenza when vaccinations are received annually.

“I encourage everyone not to wait until flu season is in full swing, and to get their vaccinations now,” said Dr. Lee. “Flu seasons varies from temperate to the tropical climates,

and a variety of vaccines are available this year,” he said. “It’s important that people check with their primary care doctor, who will advise them on which vaccine they need for the best protection.”

The Center for Disease Control also recommends that the earlier a person receives a flu shot, the better.

Immunity to the virus may last up to six months, in most cases. The flu season predictably lasts into late spring, and typically peaks between December and February.

The perception of the efffectiveness of flu vaccines has varied over the years. The shift in consciousness toward getting flu shots was uneven at best prior to the outbreak of the H1N1 swine flue in the 1970s. Up to that point, many people were fairly apathetic about getting a flu shot, but the epidemic triggered a rush to receive vaccinations.

“W We went from being a very naive population, to a highly immunized population almost overnight,” said Wi William Russell, M.D., managing partner of Conviva Palm Beach.

With a focus on cellular technology, vaccines are now purified to a much higher degree to genetically characterize strains. This indicates a significant improvement in the vaccine’s profile, and provides additional protection and additional choices.

To learn more, visit ConvivaCareCenters.com, or call 1-833-CONVIV VA.

We thank you for your support this past year.

You’ve delivered us nothing but kindness, and we hope we’ve done the same for you.

To schedule a private to our, call (844) 906–0278 or visit MeettConviva.com Follow us on Facebook @ConvivaCareCenters

YOU ARE OUR BEST GIFT!

Follow uss on Instagram @ConvivaCare

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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

FREE FACE COVERINGS Hillsborough County began on Dec. 10 to provide free, reusable cloth face coverings to residents at two dozen libraries.

In addition, the county is offering operators of small businesses the ability to request a one-time quantity of 100 face coverings, while supplies last.

The mandate that face coverings must be worn in indoor locations of businesses, with certain exceptions, remains in effect.

Residents can pick up two of the reusable face coverings and can request face coverings for immediate family members not present. Distribution hours are Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Face coverings will be distributed from the lobby of these local libraries, while supplies last: • Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., in Carrollwood • New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., New Tampa Curbside pickup only will be available at these locations: • Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road in Odessa • Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road For more locations and information, visit tinyurl.com/yy3t9es4.

NEW RADIOTHERAPY SYSTEM

Advanced Cancer Treatment Centers has acquired and will install a VitalBeam radiotherapy system for treating cancer and other conditions with image-guided radiotherapy, according to a news release.

VitalBeam, from Varian Medical Systems, delivers powerful cancer treatments with pinpoint accuracy and precision. It “integrates imaging and treatment technologies within a sophisticated architecture that makes it possible to deliver image-guided treatments very quickly, opening the door to new possibilities for the treatment of lung, breast, prostate, head and neck, as well as other cancers that are treatable with radiotherapy,” the release said.

“With VitalBeam, we can select the optimal treatment for every type of cancer,” said Dr. Clayton Alonso, radiation oncology.“This is a breakthrough that enables us to offer a wider spectrum of advanced radiotherapy treatment options to more patients. It represents a bit step forward in our ability to help people fight cancer.”

Advanced Cancer Treatment Centers soon will be open at 15211 Cortez Blvd., in Brooksville, east of the Suncoast Parkway on State Road 50.

GULFSIDE FUNDRAISERS

Due to the current pandemic, the third annual Charity Casino Night to benefit Gulfside Hospice has been rescheduled to Jan. 30, at the Heritage Springs Golf & Country Club in Trinity.

All proceeds will provide patient care and bereavement support in Pasco County through Gulfside.

For tickets and sponsorship information, visit CharityCasinoNight.org.

Also, due to the ongoing health and safety challenges, Gulfside postponed The Candace Glewen Charity Fashion Show, originally scheduled for Dec. 3.

The fundraiser was to bring people together in honor of Candace Glewen, a longtime board member of Gulfside Hospice until her recent passing, and to support the patients and families served by Gulfside.

Instead of a winter-themed fashion show, the event will now feature the latest 2021 spring looks on May 4, at Spartan Manor in New Port Richey.

For information about the event, visit GulfsideFashionShow.org, or contact Leesa Fryer, fundraising and event planning specialist, at leesa.fryer@ gulfside.org or 727-845-5707.

Efforts being made to prevent wildfires SAME DAY

The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

DERMATOLOGY APPOINTMENTS

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The Southwest Florida Water Management District plans to set some fires deliberately to reduce the risk of fires getting out of control, according to a district news release.

The technique, known as setting prescribed fires in controlled settings, reduces the chance of wildfires that can cause extensive damage, as well as threatening lives and property.

Many Floridians witnessed the devastation that wildfires can create when the state was under a wildfire emergency in 2017.

Although the acreages may sound large, the release explains that the burns will be done in small, manageable units.

Between now and the end of the year, the water management district is planning prescribed burns on these Pasco County properties • Cypress Creek Preserve, east of Ehren Cutoff and south of State Road 52: About 300 acres • Conner Preserve, west of Ehren Cutoff

and south of State Road 52:About 500 acres • Starkey Wilderness Preserve, east of New Port Richey, west of the Suncoast Parkway, north of State Road 54 and south of State Road 52:About 600 acres • Upper Hillsborough Preserve, south of the County Road 54 and east of Chancey Road in Zephyrhills:About 550 acres • Weekiwachee Preserve, north of Hudson, west of U.S. Highway 19 and includes the Aripeka Sandhills tract:About 100 acres Some trails may be temporarily closed during prescribed burn events.

Major benefits of prescribed burns include: • Reducing overgrown plants, which decreases the risk of catastrophic wildfires • Promoting the growth of new, diverse plants • Maintaining the character and condition of wildlife habitat • Maintaining access for public recreation The District conducts prescribed fires on approximately 30,000 acres each year.

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December 16, 2020

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the holiday season.

• Fit2Run: Specializes in name-brand athletic footwear, technical running apparel and accessories to fit an active lifestyle.

• Sephora will be opening in the Spring of 2021.

The Shops at Wiregrass also is featuring live holiday entertainment for the whole family. For details on the entertainment, or more information about retailers at the mall, visit TheShopsAtWiregrass.com.

Send business news to news@lakerlutznews.com

RAW SPACE COLLABORATIVE OPENS

FIRST NATIONAL ADDS EXPERIENCED BANKER

The First National Bank of Pasco, based in Dade City, has just added Kurt Petersen to its commercial lending team.

Petersen has a 20year history as a top producer with extensive banking and commercial lending experience, according to a news release from the bank.

Before joining First National Bank of COURTESY OF FIRST Pasco, Petersen was NATIONAL BANK OF PASCO senior vice president Kurt Petersen of commercial lending for Bank OZK.The size and local focus of First National Bank of Pasco is what led Petersen to join its ranks, the release says.

“First National Bank of Pasco is a proven community bank with vast market knowledge," Petersen said. "Our size provides some nimbleness when considering loan applications. Larger, regional banks just don't have that kind of flexibility," he said.

THE SHOPS AT WIREGRASS ADDS RETAILERS

The Shops at Wiregrass, in Wesley Chapel, has added to its retail mix, and will add more soon.

Open now: • Beauty In Abundance: Features a selection of favorite beauty brands and hair care products, as well as in-store make-up and lash appointments.

• Crimson Chain Leatherworks: Specializes in leather garb and costume accessories for Renaissance Fairs, LARP, cosplay, fantasy and historical reenactments.

• Arega NY: Offers swim and activewear sets.

These businesses are coming soon: • lululemon pop-up store: Specializes in activewear, including yoga-inspired, technical athletic clothes for any active endeavor.

• Chuck Lager’s American Tavern: Offers a menu that has something for everyone in the family, ranging from pasta to burgers • GO! Calendars Games and Toys: Features a wide selection of games, toys, puzzles, and calendars for those on your shopping list.

• Ornament Shoppe: Offers a variety of personalized ornament options for your Christmas tree.

• Design Hut: Creates custom shirts for the special people in your life, with great prices and designs.

• Hickory Farms: Offers cured meats, cheese, wine pairings, and fresh handpicked fruits, in a variety of gift options for

A collaborative work space recently had its grand opening and ribbon-cutting at the Grove, in Wesley Chapel.The collaborative is located at 6013 Wesley Grove Blvd., Suite 208. For more information, visit RawSpaceCo.com.

NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH

The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will host a New Year’s Eve Masquerade Party on Dec. 31 from 8 p.m. to 12:45 a.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast. The event includes hors d’oeuvres, a champagne toast, a DJ and a cash bar.There are multiple dance floors, allowing social distancing, and there is a limit of 100 guests at the event.

To RSVP, email HGI.TPASP@yahoo.com or call, 813-491-4900, ext. 0.Tickets are $45 per person or $80 per couple. Room packages also are available.

RUNFIT OPENS IN LUTZ

runFit, a run specialty shop, has opened at 18841 State Road 54 in Lutz. For information on what the shop offers, visit runFITgear.com. For questions, call 813-5759383.

LEARN ENTREPRENEURIAL BUSINESS SKILLS

Join other entrepreneurs in a nine-week course to work through your business model with a trained facilitator.The course helps you discover repeatable steps for success you can use throughout the life of your company. The course is being offered onsite and virtually, through Zoom.The on-site courses are at SMARTstart West Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 4532 U.S. 19, New Port Richey.The center is on the first floor.

Classes will be on Thursdays, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., from Jan. 12 through March 9. Registration ends on Jan. 7. Go to Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s website for more information and to register.

BE INSPIRED, GET ADVICE

Kevin Harrington, inventor of the infomercial and an original Shark from the hit TV show “Shark Tank” will share his advice on:“Getting motivated, building your brand, and succeeding in business,” during GROWPasco.

The event, being presented by Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., features 12 breakout sessions led by some of the best business minds in the area.

The event is on Jan. 16 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Hyatt Place Wesley Chapel, 26000 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz.

The cost is $20 per person for Pasco businesses and residents, or $40 per person, otherwise.

10 Things to Obser ve as Y Yo ou Visit Y Yo our Loved Ones.

Watch for these warning signs to see if your elderly loved one needs assistance and extra care.

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Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed Diminished driving skills Poor grooming and personal hygiene Unopened mail or past due bills Difficulty walking, recent falls Missed Medications Personality changes, sudden mood changes Spoiled food in the refrigerator Poor housekeeping or maintenance and unsafe conditions • Poor Nutrition

If you notice changes in yourself or a loved one, it is important to talk with friends, family members and caregivers. There are many options for additional support, ranging from personalized care plans to senior transportation services. Yo You may find that the earlier you have the conversation, the more options you have.

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9B

At Con n iva, nv Aging g Well m ans mea Staying g Well.

What exactly is “A “Aging Well?” We believe it’s living g your best life, no matter your stage off life.

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We develop a personalized plan for each individual patient We focus on prevention to spot problems when they are most treatable or can even be avoided We spend time with patients to build personal relationships, and stay in touch by telephone We provide Wellness Centers, where patients can take part in educational and social activities We believe in a holistic, mind-body approach to wellness

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To T o schedule a private tour, call (844) 906–0278 or visit MeetConviva.com We W e accept a variety off Medicare Advantage plans. p

Now more than everr,, we believe the most important part of Aging W We ell is Staying g We Well.

Follow us on Facebook @ConvivaCareCenters

10B December 16, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

Follow us on Instagram @ConvivaCare