The Laker-East Pasco-June 24, 2020

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New school year offers three options

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Students will have three options when classes resume this fall in Pasco Schools.

Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning announced his ReOpening Pasco Schools plan in a news release issued June 18.

“Parents sent us a message loud and clear: they wanted options,” Browning said, in the news release.“Many are eager to have their student return to school and see their teachers and classmates. But, many aren’t

ready for that yet.There’s an option here for everyone.”

Here are the choices outlined in the district’s 2020-2021 reopening plan: • Traditional – A return to campus and classroom with the standard school schedule and bell times.

This option includes a heavy emphasis on health and safety precautions. Students will practice safe social distancing to the greatest extent possible. Schools will use signage and consistent communication to discourage the gathering of large groups of students. Students will be expected to wear

masks or cloth face coverings on the school bus, but masks will not be required in classrooms.

• mySchool Online – Virtual learning with a connection to the student’s enrolled school.

This option requires that students follow the standard school schedule and bell times.

It features lessons and virtual interaction with teachers during each class period – all conducted online.

• Virtual School – Online learning See OPTIONS, page 13A

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A community Juneteenth celebration was held last week in Wesley Chapel’s Union Park. The event, held on June 19, marked that historic day in 1865, when slaves in Texas learned they were free. This year’s celebrations across the nation have taken on a particular significance, in the aftermath of the May 25 death of George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, who died in Minneapolis, Minnesota, after Derek Chauvin, a white police officer, knelt on Floyd’s neck. The Juneteenth event at Union Park featured prayer, song, dance and mingling. Some black-owned businesses also offered items for sale, too. Organizers urged those attending to wear masks, to avoid the potential spread of COVID-19. Above, members of the Carmel Friendship Church gather around the signage they donated for the celebration. For coverage of the event, see page 3A.

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We want yoou to join Aniya Stratford of the Carmel Friendship Church sang ‘Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,’ at the first annual Juneteenth Family Day Celebration at Union Park.

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Alexandra Archibald, of Wesley Chapel, and others at the gathering wore Juneteenth T-shirts to mark the historic day of June 19, 1865, which was when slaves in Texas learned they were free.

Pasco municipal Florida’s COVID-19 cases surpass 100,000 elections set State records 4,664 positive cases on a single day

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Florida’s positive COVID-19 cases have exceeded the 100,000 mark, according to the most recent Florida Department of Health data available on the morning of June 22.

The state figures show Florida had 100,217 positive cases, including 98,047 Florida residents and 2,170 non-residents.

The state’s death toll stood at 3,173, including a 17-year-old male from Pasco County, whose death was recorded on June 19 in Florida Department of Health records.

Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning announced Monday that he tested positive for COVID-19.

A news release from the school district said Browning experienced relatively minor symptoms, including fever, chills and general achiness since June 18, which led him to be tested.

The test came back positive on June 20, and Browning now is in isolation at home.

Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the state’s rising numbers during a news conference on June 20.

He said the increase of positive cases re-

for June 30

Case totals

Statewide: 100,217, including 98,047 Florida residents; 2,170 non-residents Pasco County: 872, including 861 Florida residents, 11 non-residents Hillsborough County: 5,973, including 5,904 Florida residents, 69 non-residents

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

sults partially from widespread testing, but he also said that people in the 20-to-30 age group that are testing positive at a higher rate.

“Our cases are shifting in a radical direction, younger,” DeSantis said.

The governor said the state’s Department of Business and Professional Regulation will be enforcing social distancing requirements in businesses it regulates, with the aim of creating greater compliance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance.

“You do hear reports about people just jampacked into some of these places,” DeSantis said.

Municipal elections for the cities of Dade City and San Antonio are scheduled for June 30.

The local elections — which will decide various city commission seats — originally were scheduled for April, but were delayed due to COVID-19.

The Dade City voting precinct is at First Baptist Church Dade City, 37511 Church Ave., in Dade City.

San Antonio’s precinct is at St.Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 12110 Main St., in San Antonio.

Polls for both races will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Poll workers at each precinct will be following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines of social distancing, mask-wearing and sanitation, Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley told The Laker/Lutz News.

“Anyone that does show up for election day voting, there will be those safety precautions in place. We’re not expecting a huge turnout, but for voters that do show up, they can expect to get out of there rather quickly, and we’ll take care of them,” Corley said.

See COVID-19, page 13A

See ELECTIONS, page 13A

Death counts Statewide: 3,173 Pasco County: 17 Hillsborough County: 115

(Most recent data available)

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City manager receives performance review

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By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

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The Dade City Commission delivered its latest review for City Manager Leslie Porter, and they identified some key areas for improvement.

They rated Porter’s overall performance at a 4.1 out of 5.0 scale, and said focus areas for improvement are in building relationships and communications.

The five commissioners graded Porter in these categories: management in administration, adhering to governance, relationship-building, leadership, and financial acumen.

She received the evaluation at the commission’s June 9 virtual meeting.

This was Porter’s fourth review since she was officially named city manager last May. Going forward, she will receive annual performance reviews like other city department heads and administrators.

In a summary of the latest evaluation, Mayor Camille Hernandez explained Porter “scored a little bit lower” when it came to cultivating relationships with legislators, residents, merchants, The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and so on.

The mayor also advised Porter — who resides in Tampa — that she needs to better familiarize herself with the municipality as a whole, along with the various city departments and employees.

Hernandez observed, “I think the communication, listening to the citizens, getting involved and responding, and serving as an effective spokesperson are really more of the primary areas (for improvement).”

In fairness, Hernandez pointed out the COVID-19 pandemic slowed down some of those objectives she previously had discussed at length with Porter. With that, the mayor did credit Porter for keeping the community informed through social media websites and online newsletters in the last few months.

Commissioner Jim Shive thanked Porter for “keeping the city at hand” through the pandemic, adding,“We all know that Leslie is a very hard worker, and she’s doing a great

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job in some areas.”

The city manager’s other evaluations this past year “have continued to come in satisfactory,” Commissioner Scott Black added.

Reflecting on her first year as city manager, Porter said:“I will just say it has been a whirlwind of a year, and I’m just thankful for the opportunity, (and) to continue the opportunity.”

Meanwhile, Hernandez noted another matter to hash out is finalizing the reorganization of city administration.

Specifically, having Porter fully relinquish finance director duties — the original position she was hired for back in 2014. Porter has juggled both roles since February 2019, when she was then appointed interim city manager.

A possible candidate for the finance director post is Venus Irvine, who became the city’s assistant finance director in March.

The issue likely will be addressed further once budget conversations begin and new commissioners come aboard following the June 30 municipal election.

In any case, “a separation of duties” Hernandez said.

The mayor added:“The intent was never to have the city manager acting as the city finance director as well.”

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Union Park community celebrates Juneteenth

By Kathy Steele ksteele@lakerlutznews.com

NeVaeh Akers-Atkins offered a simple explanation for why she was at a local Juneteenth event last week.

“It’s very important to me,” the 11-year-old said. “It shows people that we should be treated the same.”

She was with families and friends at the first annual Juneteenth Family Day Celebration in Wesley Chapel’s Union Park community.

The event was held to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States, which occurred on June 19, 1865.

Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. The inaugural celebration at Union Park came together in two weeks of whirlwind planning by residents and members of Carmel Friendship Church.

Songs, dance, music, food, prayer, prizes and fellowship filled a day of activities from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., on June 19, at the Union Park clubhouse on Bering Road.

“We’re having one big celebration,” said organizer Melissa Akers-Atkins. “It’s one of many to come.”

The program included 16-year-old Miranda Archibald, who read the poem,“We Rose,” by Kristina Kay. And,Aniya Stratford, of Carmel Friendship Church, sang, “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing,” which often is referred to as the Black national anthem.

President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, freeing slaves living in the Confederate states.

But, the news in those days traveled slowly, or in some instances, wasn’t acknowledged by slave owners.

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers came ashore at Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the end of slavery. The date was 2 ½ years after Lincoln’s proclamation.

A few months later, on Dec. 6, 1865, the 13th amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery everywhere.The following year, Juneteenth celebrations, often hosted by African-American churches, took root.

Many states now recognize the holiday.A

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Faraasha Bell, 13, left, and NeVaeh Akers-Atkins,11, delight the crowd with an impressionistic dance during a Juneteenth celebration at Union Park in Wesley Chapel.

campaign is underway now for Congress to declare Juneteenth as a federal holiday.

“It makes me happy that it’s finally being recognized locally as a holiday,” said Jamila Wright, owner of Writz Jewelry.“With everything that’s going on, it’s very important that people in general learn more about our history. I think it should be a federal holiday.”

Wright was among several black-owned businesses at the Union Park event.

Food truck owners for Wing Box, Craving Donuts and Sun’s Just Egg Rolls rolled into the clubhouse parking lot.

Vendors and sponsors included Writz Jewelry, QDP Photography, Mary Kay, Red Robin, Sign Dreamers of Wesley Chapel, and Julie’s African Hair Braiding.

Carmel Friendship Church and Union Park Charter Academy had informative displays.

Kat Stylez (her author’s name) set up a table with artwork and her first book of poetry,“Girl,Who Hurt You?” Raising awareness of the importance of Juneteenth was one of the organizers’ goals.

But, they also want to foster unity, a sense of safety, and civic participation through voting.

“We are blessed,” said organizer Tabatha Johnson.“It is important to showcase this celebration. This is the day for African-Americans. But, the celebration is not

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Pastor Quincy Stratford of the Carmel Friendship Church offers a prayer at the first annual Juneteenth Family Day Celebration in Wesley Chapel’s Union Park. His wife, Jennifer, and 30 members of the church, were there to celebrate the end of slavery.

Kaylen Boss, 22, left, looks over a copy of her twin sister, Kat Stylez’s book, ‘Girl, Who Hurt You?’ Stylez, a vendor at the event, was selling her book and artwork.

to dismiss any other culture or race.”

The recent deaths of black men by police officers, including George Floyd and Rayshard Brooks, the Black Lives Matter movement and street protests brought greater attention to the Juneteenth celebrations this year.

For Faraasha Bell, 13, Juneteenth “means that we get to learn how other people got treated and how other people experience it.”

She had Brooks’ death in mind when she said,“I see it on the news and how terrifying it is.”

Markee Duncan, 36, gave testimony as a 6-

foot-5 black man who is “two shades darker than 8:30 p.m.”

Growing up in South Carolina, he said blacks were told not to look white people in the eye and to move across the street to avoid unnecessary contact.

“In history class all I learned about is men who didn’t look like me,” Duncan said.

He said he has been pulled over by police while driving in largely white neighborhoods.“The melanin of my skin didn’t allow me the same rights as those in the Constitution.”

Akers-Atkins said organizers hope to host a Juneteenth celebration annually at Union Park. But, they also want to host other cultural events through the year.

Johnson said: “We do have faith that we will continue to grow, to know we are here and can help each other. It’s important to have empathy. I love seeing so much diversity in our community.”

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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS

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June 24, 2020

3A

What’s Happening

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

WATER WISE AWARDS

The 2020 Tampa Bay Community Water Wise Awards is looking for entries for its water-efficient landscape contest. If your landscape combines Florida-friendly plants, elements with attractive design and minimal maintenance, and uses efficient irrigation techniques that reduces water use, you can enter.Winners receive a custom garden stone, recognition by local elected officials, and neighborhood bragging rights.Applications must be submitted by Aug. 31. For information, visit Awards.tampabaywaterwise.org.

NEW E-CONTENT

Pasco County Libraries is now offering free digital access to The Wall Street Journal, a resource for business news and information on financial markets worldwide.To access this new e-content resource, visit bit.ly/PascoLibrariesWSJ and enter your library card number. For information about Pasco County Libraries, including the library catalog, e-content, programs, events and links to all library branches, visit PascoLibraries.org.

DRAGONS & MERMAIDS

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will offer a live virtual event, “Dragon Scales and Mermaid Tales” on June 25 at 11 a.m., for kindergarten through third grade. Participants can make dragon masks and mermaid tails. Kits will be available. Register online at PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/calendar.

PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP

The USF Contemporary Art Museum will offer an intensive five-week online photography workshop for military veterans, called “Breaking Barriers.”The workshop will meet online on Fridays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., from July 10 to Aug. 7.The course will focus on memory and personal experiences, and is aimed at expanding access to the arts for military personnel, veterans and their families. It is designed for all levels of experience and invites veterans to explore tools and processes such as photographic filters, and lighting and notions about self-portraiture.The program is free to veterans and no previous experience is required.A selection of each participant’s works will be exhibited on the Breaking Barriers website, and a catalog will be published online and available for print-on-demand.To register by July 6, email Leslie Elsasser at lelsase@usf.edu.

18 and July 19, at Raymond James Stadium, 4291 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.This event modernizes the traditional drive-in experience through a supersized, multisensory attraction.There also will be a “Social Kids” event on July 18 and July 19, which will include a Parents vs. Kids theme, and “Midnight Movies” on July 17 and July 18.The Parking Lot Social will include Car-AOke, a Headphone Disco DJ Battle, Boom Boom Bingo,Themed Trivia, Parking LOL and Midnight Movies.Tickets start at $29. For information, tickets and a complete schedule, visit TheParkingLotSocial.com.

4th of July Hoedown

County Line Produce, 206 Newberger Road in Lutz, will be the site for Lutz’s 4th of July Hoedown, on July 4 from noon to 8 p.m.

There will be food trucks, a corn-eating contest, watermelon-eating contest, live music, vendors, a kids’ stroller/wagon/power wheels parade, and fireworks at dark. For questions, text (813) 299-3600.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH

Westfield Citrus Park, 8021 Citrus Park Town Center in Tampa, will host a Full Inclusion Back-to-School Bash on July 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.The event focuses on families with both neuro-diverse and neuro-typical children.There will be a “Quiet Hour” when the ‘doors’ open an hour prior to the event for children on the spectrum or with sensory disorders. Both vendors and guests are asked to wear masks, but a DIY maskmaking station will be provided.There also will be a touchless photo booth with characters, and plexiglass partitions on tables. Families must register in advance for a child to receive a backpack. Some vendors will offer school supplies and take-home activities.Admission and all school supplies (while supplies last) are free. For information and to register, call (727) 6741464.

SAFETY TOWN YARD SALE

Safety Town, 15325 Alric Pottberg Blvd., in Spring Hill, will host its annual yard sale July 10, July 11 and July 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Come shop an abundance of new and slightly used items for sale, the monies of which will support the education and safety of children through Safety Town. For information, call (813) 929-1203.

DIVORCE SUPPORT

Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching will resume its free Separation & Divorce Support Group through Zoom meetings, starting July 11 at 11:30 a.m.Weekday meetings will take place every Tuesday at 7 p.m.To register, email emergestrongdivorcecoaching@gmail.com, or call (561) 339-3711.

JUNKIN’ IN JULY

The fourth annual “Junkin’ in July” will take place on July 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 12202 Main St., in San Antonio.There will be about 20 vendors under roof, shops on vintage row taking part, and 30 to 40 vendors outdoors.There will be everything from antiques to shabby chic, hand-mades, furniture, signs, art, repurposed stuff, old doors, windows, and more. For updates and information, visit Facebook.com/thebloominghouse or Facebook.com/twoolehens.

MONSTER TRUCK RALLY

A Monster Truck & Food Truck Rally Festival is scheduled to take place on July 11 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at The Grove, on Wesley Grove Boulevard in Wesley Chapel.There will be a Street Legal Truck Competition and Food Truck Competition; as well as more than 20 food trucks, 100 artisan craft vendors, inflatables, games, family activities, corn hole, a batting cage and live entertainment.There also will be more than $2,500 in prize money. For details and updates, visit WesleyChapelEvents.com.

CAR & TRUCK SHOW

Premium Car Shows will host the 2020 Series Open Car & Truck Show on July 26 at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel, rain or shine. Registration is from 10 a.m. to noon. Judging starts at 12:15 and awards will be presented at 4 p.m.As a Wiregrass safety rule, no cars can leave the premises until after the awards

PARKING LOT SOCIAL

“The Parking Lot Social” will take place starting on July 16, and continue July 17, July

ceremony is over.The event also will include music and vendors, and food and drink will be available for purchase.

Preregistration is $20, and $25 on the day of the show. For information and to register, visit PremiumCarShows.com.

WOMEN’S EXPO

The All About Women Expo has been rescheduled for Aug. 9 from noon to 5 p.m., at Westfield Citrus Park mall, for women of all ages and backgrounds.There will be free beauty treatments, a mother-daughter lookalike contest, raffles prizes, and more than 50 business vendors.A VIP experience is being offered and will include crafts stations, drink and food samples, photo booths, and a free cosmetic bag (makeup not included).To register, visit conta.cc/39JaZWU.

VIRTUAL RECREATION

Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation and the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative have launched a virtual recreation program that includes many of the activities offered through traditional programming, such as art lessons, scavenger hunts, dance exercises and reading games.

Also featured are videos, live events and stories.To see what is offered, visit HCFLgov.net/virtualrec.

CRAYOLA ACTIVITIES

Crayola.com offers a variety of coloring and crafts, including free coloring pages with themes that include nursery rhymes, animals, birthdays, a road trip scavenger hunt, printable tags, search and find puzzles, pets, the seasons, and more.Also available are ideas for do-it-yourself crafts using cardboard tubes, paper plates, rocks, paper bags, popsicle sticks, clothespins, tin cans, clay and more. Kids can learn to make a jewelry dish, keychains, pinwheels, bookmarks, insects, puppets, cards, airplanes and 3D stars.

FREE CLASSES & CAMPS

Visit VarsityTutors.com for free live online classes and virtual interactive summer camps. Classes and camps are divided into grade levels, kindergarten through 12th grade. Subjects include art, English, enrichment, filmmaking, languages, math, science, social studies, technology and computer, and more. Saturday is the only day classes do not take place. Class times start anywhere from 9 a.m. to after 6 p.m. For information, call (888) 888-0446.

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There’s no place like in PASCO & NORTH HILLSBOROUGH

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Top Parade of Homes Awards For ICI Homes

t’s always exciting for a builder to be recognized in a community’s Parade of Homes competition, but this year ICI Homes outdid itself by winning two of the most prestigious awards in Tampa Bay. In early March, a total of 79 homes were entered in the Parade of Homes from a variety of builders and developers, in the competition organized by the Tampa Bay Builders Association. And, once again, ICI Homes — a relatively new builder in the Tampa market — was chosen to receive two of its top honors.

The top award went to its Costa Mesa model in Asturia, a masterplanned community in Odessa where ICI Homes has been building for the past three years. The Costa Mesa was honored with the Grand Award in the $600k-$649k price range — one of the most competitive categories in the Parade of Homes.

This 2,565-square-foot model home is absolutely stunning. A huge kitchen and extra-large island sets apart this spacious, one-story home that features four bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage.

The builder’s second big win is for its Lantana model, which won a Silver Award in the $350k-$399k price range. This 1,800-square-foot home is one of six new floor plans that ICI Homes is introducing in Persimmon Park, a brand new community in Wesley Chapel within the masterplanned development of Wiregrass Ranch.

Located off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and directly behind The Shops at Wiregrass and AdventHealth

The Lantana model at Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel won a Silver Award at the recent Tampa Bay Parade of Homes.

Wesley Chapel, Wiregrass Ranch is a 5,000-acre, walkable community with trails that lead to parks, schools, entertainment, recreation and top-notch medical facilities.

“Persimmon Park gives our residents immediate access to all that Wiregrass Ranch and Wesley Chapel have to offer,” said Rosemary Messina, vice president of marketing and sales. “And, adding to the community’s appeal are amenities that families want, but without going overboard — a unique T-shaped pool and cabana, outdoor grilling, interconnecting trails, and dog parks for small and large breeds.”

The winning Lantana floor plan has a spacious kitchen/great room, with a large dining room and open flex room connecting to the kitchen.

The master bedroom is at the rear of the home to give easy access to the

garage, covered lanai and main living area. The one-story model is the craftsman elevation and, at 1,793 square feet, also offers two bedrooms and a bath at the front of the home.

All of ICI Homes in Persimmon Park have open floor plans with front porches, and garages and alleys at the back of the home. The first phase has 40 homes, with prices beginning in the high $200s.

“Our plans feel open and airy, and exemplify Florida’s casual lifestyle,” Messina says. “These homes are designed for people wanting to simplify their life, who want less square footage to clean and maintain, yet want all the upscale finishes and details offered by ICI Homes.”

INVENTORY HOMES IN ASTURIA

In Asturia, ICI Homes has four in-

ventory homes. Two homes are of the award-winning Costa Mesa floor plan and one is a two-story Palisade. A one-story Arden will soon be completed.

“All of our floor plans are perfect for entertaining,” said Messina. “Our gathering rooms, gourmet kitchens and dining rooms blend together as one expansive space, highlighted by lots of windows that capture tons of natural light.”

ICI Homes has over 25 homesites remaining in Asturia, with many backing up to conservation and water. Prices begin in the high $300s.

This 550-home community includes a unique trail system that winds through wetlands, parks and neighborhoods, and an award-winning Amenity Center that is known for its zero-entry pool.

BEXLEY SHOWPIECE

This is the last chance to buy an ICI Home in the first phase of Bexley, a master-planned community in Land O’ Lakes.

The builder’s Egret VII inventory home is one of the most beautiful and functional move-in ready homes available in Bexley. This one-story, four-bedroom, three-bath home has 2,813 square feet of living space, and features luxury finishes, an extended lanai, deluxe kitchen, huge gathering room and, at the home’s grand entrance, a large dining room and flex room.

This beautiful home sits on a 70foot corner homesite in one of Bexley’s most prestigious neighborhoods, located close to the clubhouse and pools.

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

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

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

A

Spacious Inventory Homes For Under $300s

vex Homes, the exclusive builder in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, has affordable inventory homes and townhomes that are ready now for families looking for a new home in time for the 2020-2021 school year.

Buyers have four completed homes to choose from. All are popular one-story plans between 1,585 square feet and 1,796 square feet, with 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 2-car garage. Homes have beautiful finishes and are priced between $267,000 and $296,092.

For families wanting to select their single-family floor plan, finishes and colors, Avex offers eight plans in its traditional single-family home options, ranging from 1,585 square feet to 2,856 square feet, built as one- or two-story homes. Each home features a classic design with rich architectural detail and a traditional focus on the front porch. Homes start in the mid-$200s, and are available on a variety of lots, including conservation and water views.

Two-story, move-in ready townhomes also are available. These attractive homes are even more affordable, with prices beginning in the $230s. The townhome lifestyle is especially popular with young families buying their first home, and empty-nesters wanting to downsize.

The maintenance-free townhomes all feature two-car garages in the rear, with alley access. Three floor plans are available, ranging from 1,608 square feet to 1,834 square feet, with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. Each townhome has a front porch, covered lanai or private breezeway that connects to the garage.

“Our townhomes are beautifully designed with upscale custom finishes, and are a tremendous value for the Wesley Chapel area,” said Cheryl Gonzalez, sales representative for Avex Homes. “Plus, every home comes with a 2-car garage — something you rarely find in town-

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is a brand new town bringing together everything a family needs to live, learn, work and play.

homes in this price range.”

“People always comment on how spacious our townhomes feel because of their open floor plans and standard 9-foot ceilings on both the first and second floors,” she adds.

If building from scratch, Avex allows its homebuyers to upgrade home finishes to their individual lifestyle and design preferences — from moving electrical outlets, to upgrading cabinets and flooring, to choosing colors that best show off their individual taste.

AMENITIES AND DOWNTOWN

Few communities offer the recreational activities found at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, thoughtfully created for residents of all ages. New in 2019 was an expansive second amenity center with a zero-entry

pool, splash pad, spa and picnic area. Avalon Park families also enjoy a wide array of other amenities, including another swimming pool, tot lot, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with its planned downtown.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel soon will offer residents places to shop and work when its downtown center is completed. Infrastructure construction has begun on the first phase, which will include two office buildings, two mixed-use retail/residential buildings and a community park.

“We will be building beautiful, multi-story buildings with commercial space designed for businesses our residents want close to home — restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops,

bars and entertainment, hair and nail salons, as well as activities like dance, gymnastic and karate studios,” said Lerret.

In addition to shops and markets, the community’s downtown area will have over 500,000 square feet of commercial space.

“We are not just developers— we are building a brand new town with family events all year-long,” said Lerret. “We’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future.”

Already, 1,500 people call Avalon Park Wesley Chapel home, and over 750 homes have been sold since it opened in 2012. The community will continue to grow over the next several years and, at build out, will be home to 10,000 residents residing in 4,400 single and multifamily homes.

New River Library In The Heart of Avalon Park

H

aving a library in the center of your community is something that residents of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel truly love and value. The New River library, a branch of the Pasco County Libraries system, is located on State Road 54, at the west entrance to the Wesley Chapel community.

The New River Library is currently going through a complete renovation and expansion of its building and outdoor areas, and also is upgrading its technology capabilities. When completed this fall, it will be a showpiece for all of Pasco County.

When the New River Library reopens, visitors will love its modern new look, covered walkway entry, much faster Internet speeds, expanded youth areas, and a makerspace that opens into a shaded classroom for outdoor activities.

Library patrons can expect “a complete re-imagining from top to bottom,” including space for do-ityourself activities and gardening programs hosted by master gardeners

Rendering of the covered walkway being built at the New River Branch Library.

or Pasco County Extension agents, said Bob Harrison, marketing program manager for Pasco County Libraries.

The New River Library will re-open with its garden area greatly expanded from six raised beds to 26 beds. About half will be used for workshops and demonstrations, and the rest will be

available to people who want to grow flowers or vegetables.

“It’s really kind of neat that the library team gave us this opportunity,” said Judy Curran, the library’s youth services provider.

Curran made the first plantings at the original New River Library in 2014, when employees were encour-

aged to adopt a special project.

Curran’s garden idea received an enthusiastic response as soon as she posted it on the library bulletin board, and flowers and vegetables soon sprouted with help from a dozen youth and adult volunteers.

Also, new at the library is a unique children’s activity, Story Walk, which will encourage children to follow a winding path where they will stop at stations and read pages from a storybook.

“I think Story Walk is going to bring even more people when we reopen,” Curran said. “This little idea I had has really expanded.”

To encourage full use of the library’s new capabilities, a new employee is being added who will be assigned to community outreach and helping organize library events.

Funding for the renovations is from General Obligation bonds approved by voters in November 2018.

For information on New River and video on renovations, visit Facebook.com/newriverlibrary.

Pasco Fine Arts Council Partnership Continues

A

valon Park Wesley Chapel began a partnership with the Pasco Fine Arts Council last summer, with the goal of bringing art and cultural events, exhibits and educational classes to East Pasco County.

In its first year, this partnership has led to the discovery of local artists, introduced art workshops to the community and given member artists the opportunity to feature their work in a new venue.

“One of the main goals of this partnership was to introduce people to local artists with monthly exhibits and demonstrations,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of the Avalon Park Group. “This partnership has allowed us to expand the arts to not only our residents, but also to the entire east side of the county.”

“It has been an overwhelming positive experience for the Pasco Fine Arts Council to expand its pres-

Artist Cindi Vinci Gallery Show WHEN: July 1 – Aug. 22, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. , Tuesday – Saturday Reception "Something Different” WHEN: Friday, Aug. 21, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

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ence in East Pasco, thanks to the vision and generosity of the Avalon Park Group,” said Jo Baughman, director of the Council.

For Baughman, who has been involved in the Pasco Fine Arts Council for over 20 years, the invitation from Avalon Park West to work together

accomplishes a long-held dream.

“This partnership has been a tremendous asset to the artist community and our patrons, and has greatly expanded our ability to bring arts to all of Pasco County,” said Baughman.

It is the vision of Avalon Park

Wesley Chapel for its planned downtown to be the cultural and event center of East Pasco County. The downtown’s first phase will include a dedicated Arts Gallery, which will become the permanent East Pasco home for the Pasco Fine Arts Council.

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

June 24, 2020

Keep Your Family Cool and Safe With A New A/C and Generator Cornerstone Pros Is Your One-Stop Source

F

lorida’s hot and humid summer is in full force, and with it comes the dangers of thunderstorms and hurricanes. If your family is spending more time than ever at home because of COVID-19, it may be smart to consider updating or replacing you’re A/C system, and look into installing a portable or permanent all-home generator.

“The only thing worse than having you’re A/C go out on the hottest day of the year, is it going out during a hurricane, and not coming back on when your power is restored,” said Dana Spears, president and owner of Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “It is always best to plan ahead before an emergency strikes, and if you call now, we can get a technician to your home within a few days.”

Many families decide to upgrade their A/C system either because their existing unit is unreliable and costing too much to maintain, or it is so inefficient that it uses an increasing amount of energy that results in hundreds of dollars in utility bills, Spears explains.

A new A/C system that Cornerstone Pros offers exclusively in this area is the Daikin Fit series.

Available only since February, it features exceptionally cool comfort, a small footprint and high energy efficiency ratings.

“The Daikin Fit has many advantages that families value,” said Spears.

“Here are the top three that our customers rave about.”

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

2. Exceptionally Quiet — It’s so quiet that it can be installed outside a bedroom window and not be heard inside, which makes it great for sleeping because you don’t hear a

The outdoor unit of the Daikin Fit is half the size of a traditional condenser, which allows for more space for outdoor living.

compressor kicking on and off during the night.

3. Energy Efficient — It has an energy efficiency rating of 16 SEER that lowers your power bill because it consumes less energy to cool a home.

The Daikin Fit series also has the tech conveniences people want, including Wi-Fi connectivity and thermostat controls that are accessible from a phone, pad and laptop.

Plus, Cornerstone offers great financing terms and rebates, and works with local utility companies to qualify customers for additional rebates.

Finally, the Daikin Fit has one of the best warranties in the industry, with a 12-year parts and labor warranty included in the price of the unit.

HOME GENERATORS

Many families consider a home generator to keep their family comfortable and safe in case the power goes out during a summer storm or hurricane.

“Families of all sizes and incomes are installing home generators, especially when a family member has medical issues that require treatments needing power,” said Miguel Silva, plumbing manager for Cornerstone Pros.

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Generac generators run on natural gas or liquid propane, and automatically activate when there is a power outage.

most advanced manufacturer of backup generators that run on natural gas or liquid propane, and automatically activate when there is a power outage.

“Choosing the right size generator for your home is just as important as the quality of the generator. Our technicians do a full load calculation on every home we quote, and specify a generator that best meets a family’s needs and budget,” said Silva.

Because generators can be costly, Cornerstone Pros offers permanent and portable generators, and has lowinterest financing available to make monthly payments affordable.

“We want to encourage everyone who wants to protect their family’s health, comfort and safety to give us call,” said Silva. “We do everything possible to make a generator fit their budget.”

Modern generators are compact, quiet and able to power some or all of a home’s electrical appliances. A generator prevents almost all of the problems associated with power loss, including spoiled food, extreme temperatures, sickening mold, and no running water if a home is on a well.

“Many people think of backup generators as giant, noisy units that can be heard all around the neighborhood. This is no longer the case,” said Silva.

The American Red Cross recommends permanently installed backup generators because they are a safer way to provide backup power to a home than a portable generator.

Silva adds that portable generators can be dangerous if not properly installed. “A new transfer switch is usually needed for a portable generator, so that a home’s electrical panel is not blown up when the utility turns the power back on,” said Silva.

For homes with natural gas, Cornerstone Pros technicians do the plumbing that ties the generator directly into the home’s natural gas line, so the homeowner never has to worry about filling a gas tank. Homes without natural gas require a propane tank, which Cornerstone Pros connects to during its installation.

“Generators provide protection 24/7, whether you’re home or away, and turn themselves off when utility power returns, so there is no need to monitor the unit during an outage,” said Silva. “Plus, most models today offer Wi-Fi connectivity, so no matter where you are, you can monitor the status of your power and generator’s operations from a smartphone, tablet or computer.”

Cornerstone Pros offers 24-hour heating and cooling assistance. Its phones are answered 24/7, and technicians are available weekends and holidays. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night.

For more information, visit the website at CornerstonePros.com.

New Manufactured Homes At Shadow Wood Village

I

t’s not too late to discover the fabulous new homes at Shadow Wood Village in Hudson, located just 30 minutes from Land O’ Lakes, and less than two miles from the Gulf of Mexico.

In the three months since this manufactured home community began selling new homes priced in the mid $90s, 18 out of 20 inventory homes have been sold. There are just two homes left, and these are expected to sell quickly to those age 55 years and older. More homes are expected in mid-July and will be ready in a few months.

The community’s new homes are spacious — up to 1,456 square feet — and boast front porches, great rooms for living and dining, two bedrooms with a den and two full baths. Floor plans are open and contemporary with the latest in home design trends.

Kitchens feature lots of cabinets and a large island for bar stools and conversation, and in some models, with

the kitchen sink inset in the island.

Quality blinds and appliances are provided, including the refrigerator.

Every home has an inviting front porch; one of the new models coming in has a full front porch. A covered carport with a large, secure storage area, and steps leading from the driveway to the back of the home, is convenient for unloading groceries and provides easy access to the laundry area.

There is a very exciting lease-topurchase plan that comes with each home when you decide to rent it.

These are 12-month leases with a variety of rent incentives. If you want to buy a new home now, or rent one, Shadow Wood has the perfect home for you.

Shadow Wood Village offers residents an array of amenities, including a heated pool.

Call Community Manager Pennye Rose at (877) 360-1124, or email prose@suncommunities.com.

YOUR NEXT HOME IS YO I HERE!

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Infinite HD — Experienced Home Remodeling

By Kelli Carmack

R

ob Howard got his start in the flooring business 35 years ago as a teenager, when he was working at a grocery store and his manager asked if he could finish the store’s floors when a contractor failed to show.

Rob agreed to help, discovered that he enjoyed the work, and has been in the flooring business ever since.

Over the years, Rob has expanded his skills to include painting, tile work and other skills Experienced partners at Infinite HD, Jarred Howard (left), needed for home im- Rob Howard and David Rodriguez. provements, and today works in both remodeling/restora- — ‘Cheap labor isn’t skilled, and skilled labor isn’t cheap,’” said tions and new construction.

In 2014, Rob added new partners David. “It truly matters who you — his son, Jarred Howard, and long- hire.”

Infinite HD has seen its share of time colleague, David Rodriguez.

The men named their new business cases where people try to do their Infinite Home Designs, which they own home repairs, or hire unqualified people, and end up having abbreviated to Infinite HD. Infinite HD has grown into a full- Infinite HD finish the job.

“Those clients end up spending service home repair and installation company, with a focus on bathroom more money, time and stress by tryand kitchen remodeling, as well as ing to do it on their own,” said David. flooring.

Infinite HD recently moved its ofA recent trend that Rob has observed is that many people are fice to Odessa to keep up with the calling about back porch installa- company’s growth. The location is convenient to its customer base in tions.

“It makes sense. People who are Hillsborough and Pasco counties. off for the summer, or working from Rob is excited to watch his company home, want a relaxing spot to un- continue to grow and expand.

Infinite HD continues to operate wind. Plus, with it being summertime with mosquitoes and as a family business, which Rob is gnats running around crazy, having reminded of every time he steps a back porch makes your summer into the office, because his grandexperience much more enjoyable,” children helped install its floor.

Having both his son, Jarred, and said Rob. Home repair shows, such as daughter, Janann, work for him is “Fixer Upper,” often inspire people something Rob deeply treasures – a to do their own home repairs, but sentiment his son, Jarred, shares.

“It’s always nice to make those David Rodriguez stresses the importance of hiring a licensed memories with my dad,” said Jarred.

For more information, or to book professional for most home repair a free estimate with Infinite HD, call needs.

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dults age 55-plus are discovering Club Wildwood in Hudson as a perfect community to live because of its beautiful manufactured homes, first-class amenities (including an 85,000-gallon pool), and fabulous location just 30 minutes from Land O’ Lakes and 5 minutes from the beach.

At 478 homes, Club Wildwood is the largest retirement community in north Pasco County. With so many residents, there is always something going on for folks to enjoy, from water aerobics in its Olympic-size swimming pool, to twice-a-week bingo and weekly happy hours.

Residents are friendly and welcome newcomers to activities and clubs.

This exceptionally maintained park has re-sale homes priced from $20,000 to $85,000. New homes also

are available for sale or lease, and begin in the low $90s. All homes are double-wide, and offer two or three bedrooms, two baths and an attached carport and storage area.

Most existing homes have been updated with the latest design styles, and are a tremendous value for a single-family home in terms of cost, amenities and location.

Many of the community’s newest residents are moving from Land O’ Lakes and Lutz, which are just 30 minutes away, because living at Club Wildwood with all its fabulous lifestyle costs less than renting an apartment, and its location on U.S. 19 makes it easy to get to work and close to so many things to do.

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Fine Arts Award

Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com

CAMP WOW IS OPEN

Pasco County Schools’ summer camp program is now open at 14 school sites around the county.The popular program is available Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., with several health and safety modifications in place, including: • Reduced staff-to-student ratios • Enhanced sanitizing procedures • Curbside drop-off and pick-up • Daily health screenings To register for summer camp, to see a list of sites, or to learn more about the program, please visit Camp Wow! web page at MyASEP.com/campwow/.

Hip hip, hooray!

Primrose Schools at Collier Parkway hosted a drive-by graduation for its 57 VPK graduates and their families on May 29. From left: Laura Brennen and Robin Adams, VPK teachers, and parent Jamie Hart celebrate the students with bright, painted signs along the parade route.

SONIC THANKS TEACHERS

SONIC Drive-In matched all donations to DonorsChoose on Teacher Appreciation Day in May. To recognize the entrepreneurial spirit that drives teachers to meet students’ distance learning needs, these two Lutz teachers received funding for their individual projects: • Victoria Wilson, Learning Gate Community School (K-6 Campus): “A MacBook Pro for Educational Success” • Ingrid Osborne, Maniscalco Elementary School:“Circle Time Fun” Through Limeades for Learning, SONIC donated $1 million to public school teacher requests across the country on Teacher Appreciation Day, supporting their endeavors to provide students with essential education resources.

COURTESY OF JODI RATLIFF

GRADUATION SCHEDULES Traditional graduations for Pasco County seniors have been rescheduled to August.

The listed ceremonies are contingent on developments regarding COVID-19 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) requirements.

• Aug. 5: Marchman Technical College at River Ridge High School (time to be determined) • Aug. 6: Pasco High School at Pasco High Stadium, 7:30 p.m.

• Aug. 10: Pasco eSchool at River Ridge High School, 6 p.m.

• Aug. 11: Wendell Krinn Technical High

School at Wendell Krinn, 6 p.m.

• Aug. 12: Cypress Creek High School at Yuengling Center, 7 p.m.

• Aug. 13: Zephyrhills High School (3 p.m.) and Wiregrass High (7 p.m.), at Yuengling Center • Aug. 14: Land O’ Lakes High (3 p.m.) and Wesley Chapel High (7 p.m.), at Yuengling Center • Aug. 15 Sunlake High at Yuengling Center, 1 p.m.

STUDENTS READY FOR COLLEGE The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club awarded its annual club scholarships

The Heritage Arts Center Association awarded the Nereim Fine Arts Award to Meagan Alexis Stringer, a Class of 2020 Zephyrhills High School graduate.

Heritage Arts is a local nonprofit volunteer organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the performing and visual arts in the community.

The award honors the late founding board members Gordon and Jean Nereim.

Stringer was inspired to draw by her father and by her elementary school art teacher. She continued working on her artistic talent throughout her childhood, and plans to enter the field of illustration at the Academy of Art University.

Stringer will be invited to display her art at next year’s “Moonlight and Ivory” concerts and art shows at the women’s club in Dade City.

For information, please visit HeritageArts.org. in the amount of $2,500 each, to these four students: Steinbrenner High School graduates Brianna Sandner (Florida Gulf Coast University), Joseph Pereira (University of South Florida), and Maggie O’Shea (Florida State University), and Sunlake High graduate Morghan Copeland (University of Florida).Visit LakerLutzNews.com to see the students’ photos

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Local schools join civics and debate initiative

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Dr. John Long Middle School and Wiregrass Ranch High School are among 60 schools across Florida selected to take part in the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative.

The selections were announced during the Pasco County School Board meeting on June 16.

The initiative is supported through a $5 million grant from The Marcus Foundation.

“The mission of the FCDI is to create access and opportunities for all students to have the best civics education, including curriculum, debate programs, and high-quality teachers that are catalysts for students becoming great citizens who can preserve

our constitutional republic for future generations,” according to a posting on the FloridaEducationFoundation.org website.

The idea is to increase access for all students to participate in speech and debate programs, regardless of school district, socioeconomic status, or background, according to the website.

The FCDI will develop and host the first of its kind National Civics and Debate Competition (NCDC), which will allow a broader range of students to explore, understand, and express important constitutional, legal and societal issues, the posting says.

Teachers and debate coaches also will be provided opportunities for professional development throughout the year, to enable them to learn techniques and best practices for teaching civics, speech and debate.

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Watch out for COVID-19 scams

By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has posted information on its website about how to avoid scams during the COVID-19 pandemic.The FTC offers this advice to consumers: • Don’t respond to texts, emails or calls about checks from the government. Read more at consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/04.

• Be wary of ads for test kits. Most test kits being advertised have not been approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and aren’t necessarily accurate.

• Hang up on robocalls. Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything

• Lottery System for Tee Times • NEW Champion Turf Greens • NEW Bunker Renovation

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• Watch for emails claiming to be from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) or WHO (World Health Organization). Use sites such as Coronavirus.gov and USA.gov/coronavirus to get the latest information. Do not click on links from sources you don’t know.

• Do your homework when it comes to donations. Never donate in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money.

To download a complete guide or watch videos on how to avoid scams, to read about how COVID-19 impacts finances, or to view consumer complaint data, visit FTC.gov/coronavirus.

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11A

POLITICAL AGENDA PASCO VOTERS WON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR POSTAGE

Supervisor of Elections Brian E. Corley has announced that voters who wish to vote-by-mail in the primary and general election will not have to pay postage to send in their ballot.

In a news release, Corley said that the step is being taken due to the unprecedented nature of the 2020 election cycle. “Although the impact of COVID-19 on the election cycle is largely unknown, at a minimum, I believe that social distancing guidelines may inevitably create long lines and wait times at Early Voting Sites and Election Day polling places,� Corley said, in the release.“We are promoting vote-by-mail as a third option for casting a ballot in hopes of mitigating any inconvenience to voters at the polls. In these unprecedented times we are also taking the extra step of paying return postage for vote-by-mail ballots as a way of assisting voters to safely cast their ballot.�

Florida has had no-excuse absentee voting since 2002, and in 2016 the term absentee was officially changed to vote-bymail by unanimous vote of the Florida Legislature.

Requesting a vote-by-mail ballot can be done online at PascoVotes.gov, by phone at (800) 851-8754, or by signed written re-

quest (include your date of birth) mailed to P.O. Box 300, Dade City, FL 33526.

Vote-by-mail ballots are mailed approximately 40 days prior to each election when a request is on file, but voters can continue to request ballots up to 10 days before an election with requests being processed within 24 hours.

For more information on voting by mail, see our FAQ at PascoVotes.gov.

BURGESS RECEIVES ENDORSEMENTS

Danny Burgess, who is running to fill the vacancy left by Sen. Tom Lee, in Florida Senate District 20, has received the endorsement of Lee and Gov. Ron DeSantis, according to Burgess’ campaign. Burgess, a Republican, is facing Democrat Kathy Lewis.

Political Agenda is a column that runs only during election years. It gives candidates a place to announce they are seeking political office. It lets voters know of upcoming Meet the Candidate nights or political forums. There is never a guarantee of publication, but we do consider each item we receive. Please submit items for consideration at least two weeks prior to the desired publication date. Send submissions to news@lakerlutznews.com.

Some 2020 races decided; others up for grabs

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano, Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles and Sheriff Chris Nocco each will serve another four years — since no opponents came forward to challenge them by the qualifying deadline in the 2020 election.

Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley also will serve another four years, as his opponent withdrew. And, Mike Wells has been elected to Pasco County Property Appraiser, since his opponent Gary Joiner did not qualify.

Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley will serve another term in District 1, because opponent Christopher King withdrew.And, Pasco School Board District 2 incumbent Colleen Beaudoin has won another term because her opponent Adrienne G.Wilson withdrew.

Seats in other political races remain up for grabs.

Pasco School Board District 4 incumbent Alison Crumbley faces Joshua M. Stringfellow.

Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning is being challenged by David P. LaRoche and Cynthia Thompson.

Republican Kathryn Starkey incumbent in the race for Pasco County Commission District 3 faces Democrat challenger Jessica McCoy Stempien.

In District 4, an election is being held to fill the seat that’s being vacated two years early by Wells, who decided to run for county appraiser. Four Republican candidates are vying for the seat: Gary Bradford, Christina M. Fitzpatrick, Russell “Jeff’ Miller and Gabriel (Gabe) Papadopoulus.

Pasco County Commission District 5 incumbent Republican Jack Mariano faces challengers Brandi Geoit, a Democrat, and Victor Rodriguez, with no party affiliation.

Meanwhile, at the state level, another familiar face has stepped forward.

Republican Danny Burgess, of Zephyrhills, is competing with Democrat Kathy Lewis in a special election in Senate District 20.They are vying to fill the seat of Tom Lee, who stepped away from the seat early.

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COVID-19, from page 1A The CDC’s guidance calls for maintaining a social distance of 6 feet.

“If you can’t social distance, it’s recommended you wear some kind of face covering,” DeSantis said. He doesn’t anticipate making that a state requirement, but he said he hopes people will do what they can to avoid spreading the virus.

The governor also reiterated the need for elderly people, and those with significant underlying conditions, to avoid crowds and take other measures to avoid exposure.

Despite the rising number of positive cases, DeSantis said Florida’s hospitals are wellpositioned to treat COVID-19 patients.

“The whole reason the mitigation was done was to flatten the curve, so the hospitals wouldn’t be overwhelmed,” DeSantis said.

He also noted:“We have way fewer patients on ventilators today than we did in April.

Florida COVID-19 Positive cases, last 14 days June 8: 1,151 June 9: 1,225 June 10: 1,655 June 11: 1,634 June 12: 2,319 June 13: 2,125

June 14: 1,767 June 15: 2,698 June 16: 2,420 June 17: 2,699 June 18: 3,308 June 19: 4,023 June 20: 4,664 June 21: 2,779

“The ICU COVID hospitalizations are significantly down from where they were,” he added.

Plus, “daily fatalities have continued to trend down,” he said.

As of the morning of June 21, the national death toll stood at 119,615, which was 560 more than the previous day, according to the CDC.The national number of positive cases exceeded 2.2 million, including 32,411 more cases than the day before.

ELECTIONS, from page 1A For those cautious about heading to the polls amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the elections supervisor suggests voting by mail instead. Request a vote-by-mail ballot by calling (800) 851-8754, or in writing to P.O. Box 300, Dade City, FL 33526.Vote-by-mail ballots are due back in the elections’ office by 7 p.m., election day.

Whether it’s a polling place or via mail, Corley emphasized the importance for city residents to cast a ballot in the local elections.

“These municipal offices are the closest to the people and traditionally have the lowest turnout, and it should be the opposite,” Corley said.“It’s the old adage,‘If you don’t vote, you can’t complain,’ so I would encourage all voters to come out and get their voice heard.”

Here is a closer look at the elections:

DADE CITY

Six candidates are running for three open seats on the Dade City Commission — for Groups 3, 4 and 5.

In Group 3, two-term incumbent Jim Shive is facing challenger Matthew Wilson.

Shive is a retired government employee.

Wilson is a data entry clerk for the United Parcel Service.

Groups 4 and 5 seats will see fresh faces, as Nicole Deese Newlon and Eunice Penix are not seeking re-election. Newlon served one four-year term after she won in 2016, while Penix has held her seat since 1993.

Vying for Newlon’s Group 4 seat are Ann Cosentino and Knute Nathe.

Cosentino owns a communications/branding consulting firm.

Nathe is an attorney with McCLain Alfonso P.A.

FILE

Municipal elections in Dade City and San Antonio are scheduled for June 30. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Christopher King and Normita Woodard are facing off for Penix’s Group 5 seat. King is the founder of The Gentleman’s Course Inc., a local youth mentorship charity.

Woodard is a secretary at Lacoochee Elementary School.

SAN ANTONIO

Five candidates are vying to fill three open seats on the San Antonio City Commission.

Incumbents Elayne Bassinger and Sarah Schrader are running and Joseph Couture, John Vogel and Dacia Wadsworth Mitchell fill out the field.

Unlike the head-to-head matchups of other municipalities, the top three overall vote-getters earn commission seats. San Antonio commissioners serve two-year terms.

For more voting information, call the Pasco County Supervisor of Elections office at (800) 851-8754 or (352) 521-4302, or visit PascoVotes.gov.

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Pasco County Schools will be making efforts in the upcoming school year to prevent large crowds of students gathering at any one time and place.

OPTIONS, from page 1A through Pasco’s nationally recognized Pasco eSchool.

This model offers flexible scheduling and is taught by Pasco County teachers.

Students work at their own pace and can do schoolwork during non-traditional hours.

Before announcing its reopening plan, the district sought input from families and staff in recent weeks to gauge their comfort level and priorities for the start of the new school year.

The district also conducted focus groups and gathered ideas, thoughts, and concerns via a tool called ThoughtExchange.

Thousands of people weighed in, with clear themes emerging.

Among the primary concerns were a need for options and the cleanliness at school, according to the news release.

In addition to announcing the news to the media, the district used telephone calls and emails to announce the plan to staff and families.

Families will be asked to choose an option for their student or students by July 1, to enable the district to make staffing decisions.

The school year begins Aug. 10.

Browning also appears in an introductory video on the district’s website, which includes a more detailed description of the three options, as well as a set of frequently asked questions.

To view that, visit Pasco.k12.fl.us/reopening.

Pasco County Schools ReOpening Plan Pasco County Schools has issued a reopening plan. Here are some of the details:

Public health actions on campuses • Practice safe social distancing to the greatest extent possible • Post signage and provide lessons to strongly encourage frequent handwashing and hygiene practices • Ensure hand sanitizer is available throughout the campus • Increase cleaning protocols throughout each campus, including replacing air filters more frequently • Limit group gatherings • Encourage face coverings on campus • Conduct symptom screenings

School bus safety • Expect students to wear face coverings on the bus • Clean high-touch areas between runs • Ensure hand sanitizer is available on each bus • Disinfect each bus thoroughly at the end of each day

Extra steps at elementary level • District will use a cohort isolation model, where students will spend time on campus with the group of students in their class, including in the classroom, the cafeteria, media center and the playground. The goal is to limit Interaction with students from other classes to the greatest extent possible. By doing that, if a student displays symptoms of illness, it likely will impact their cohort classmates, and not the entire school — in terms of quarantine or other interventions.

Source: Pasco County Schools

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13A

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Local javelin standout ready for bigger stage

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

N

ew Tampa resident Zach Godbold was poised to conclude his high school athletic career on top of a winner’s podium.

At Wharton High School, Godbold had wrapped up his final varsity football and soccer seasons in the fall and winter, respectively.

His attention then turned to track and field.

He envisioned hoisting up the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA)’s first state-sanctioned title in the javelin throw, in the modern era.

After all, in 2019 Godbold won the FHSAA’s exhibition state title in javelin — as part of a provisional period for the track and field offering.

He picked up right where he left off this spring.

COURTESY OF KYLE LOJACONO Godbold was ranked No. 1 Wharton High’s Zach Godbold had eyes set on winning the first official state javelin title in in the state with a rubber-tip the modern era, until the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of spring sports. javelin throw of 55.15 meters.

The mark was well ahead of the state’s No. 2 thrower, Pompano Beach Highlands Christian Academy junior Nick Veynovich, who had a personal best of 49.36 meters.

Then COVID-19 happened — wiping out the remainder of the Florida high school sports season in early March.

And, just like that, Godbold’s shot at making history vanished. His status as the de facto favorite to become the first officially recognized javelin state champion since 1950 was erased.

The FHSAA discontinued the javelin in 1950, due to safety concerns. It brought it back with some new procedures, such as using a rubber tip instead of a steel tip seen in college and Olympic-level competitions.

“It being my senior year and my first official chance, it was obviously disappointing,” Godbold said, in a recent interview with The Laker/Lutz News.

He felt for his fellow teammates and other athletes, too.

“I lost my season, but so did every other New Tampa resident Zach Godbold has signed with University of Florida men’s track and spring sport for every level, so everyone’s in field, where he’ll compete in the javelin throw. Godbold recently graduated from Wharton the same boat,” Godbold said.

High School.

But, time has healed his wounds.

He missed out on a would-be historic state crown, but he has since shifted focus to the steel-tip throw is 60.38 meters.

“My heart went out to the kid because of his next challenge — competing on the As he prepares to move to Gainesville, the how much he’s done, he wanted to get that University of Florida men’s track and field athlete has been keeping sharp through gym state championship,” LoJacono said. team. workouts and javelin throws, which he Right up until the final meet of the season He signed a college athletic scholarship, makes multiple times each week at Hunter’s on March 7, Godbold went the extra mile in May, to attend UF. Green Community Park in New Tampa. both in training and at meets, the coach said.

So, a missed opportunity that was com“I’m hoping to come out and improve my LoJacono said the athlete lifted weights pletely out of Godbold’s control has become personal best so much that no one sees it early in the morning and practiced track in motivational factor for his burgeoning col- coming,” Godbold said.“I’m kind of eager to the afternoon, while also juggling what was lege career. get out there and show what I can do after left of his soccer season.

He has lofty expectations for his fresh- improving for a whole year.”

“You would think that somebody’s who’s Wharton High track and field coach Kyle No. 1 might get a little bit complacent, but man season at Florida.

He’s aiming for a steel-tip javelin throw of LoJacono sympathizes with Godbold’s missed this year there was really none of that…beat least 70 meters; his current top mark in opportunity to claim a historic achievement. cause he really did everything as far as that

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THIS OUT

strength and conditioning side,” LoJacono said.

His attitude, the coach said, was: “How can I make myself better?”

While Godbold’s senior season ended abruptly, LoJacono is eager to see Godbold’s potential for growth, as he heads to a Division I national powerhouse that’s claimed nine combined NCAA titles and 11 SEC crowns since 2009.

Said LoJacono:“It really is going to be special to see what he can do over the next four years.”

JAVELIN CREATES MORE OPPORTUNITIES

As Godbold heads off to new challenges, LoJacono is looking forward to the competitive growth of the javelin throw among the Florida high school ranks.

This season, the coach observed an uptick in participants in both local and county meets among boys and girls, compared to when it was a provisional, unscored offering the past couple years. “I’ve seen a lot more people do it. It’s already taken off in a positive way,” he said.

The discipline essentially requires an athlete to throw a spear for distance, and gaining momentum by running within a predetermined area.

In boys competition, the spear weighs 800 grams and has an length of 260 centimeters to 270 centimeters. In girls competition, it’s 600 grams and 220 centimeters to 230 centimeters long.

Mastering javelin requires a combination of sprint speed, strength, explosiveness, athleticism, and technique from the legs all way up to the throwing motion, LoJacono said.

“It’s that whole kinetic chain.”

The recent reintroduction of javelin by the FHSAA ultimately could lead to more track and field scholarships for Florida high schoolers.

LoJacono explained those scholarships — namely at Florida colleges and universities — have been going to athletes from other states that offered javelin as a sanctioned high school event.

Bringing javelin back into the fold was forward-thinking on the FHSAA’s part, LoJacono said, because,“there was this whole talent base of kids who were not being served.”

Godbold is a prime example of that, as he first achieved statewide and national recognition in javelin on the AAU circuit as a teen.

Now that it’s a state-sanctioned event, Godbold, too, envisions a wave of youth and high school athletes who may discover an otherwise hidden gift.

“With (javelin) being in meets, and teams caring about points and trying to win meets, they would test out people in practice and throw people out there, so I think coming up in Florida, there’s going to be a lot more good javelin throwers than there have been,” Godbold said.

And, the greater exposure to javelin may create new opportunities, he added.

“I think there’s a lot of people who are playing other sports, maybe they’re a baseball pitcher or something, who have the talent to be able to go Division I in track and field,” Godbold said.

The Skillz in the Hills Rookie Camp will be offered June 27 and June 28; July 25 and July 26;Aug. 15 and Aug. 16; and, Sept. 19 and Sept. 20.The events are geared for skydivers with less than 200 jumps.There is no registration, but participants will be asked to split the slot of the coach with the people on your jump. The events are limited to eight people per day, so coaches can ensure quality instruction and more jumps; the goal is for four jumps to six jumps a day for each person.

For information, call (813) 782-9399, email info@ skydivecity.com, or message “Skydive City” on Facebook.

FOURTH OF JULY GOLF SCRAMBLE

COURTESY OF TONI SPILOTRO

Niko Spilotro

ALL-STAR BOUND

Pine View Middle School’s Niko Spilotro has been selected to represent Team Florida in the Future Stars Game, an all-star showcase featuring some of the top middle school football players in Florida and Georgia.

Spilotro, 13, is one of 44 players statewide on Team Florida’s seventh-grade team.They will face Team Georgia on July 4, at Clark College in Atlanta.

The 6-foot-2, 255-pound Spilotro is a starting offensive and defensive lineman at Pine View Middle. He’s also been invited to attend the FBU (Football University) Top Gun Showcase in Naples in mid-July.

SKYDIVING ROOKIE CAMPS

Skydive City Z’Hills will host a series of weekend summer camps for novice skydivers at its facility, 4241 Sky Dive Lane in Zephyrhills.

14A

June 24, 2020

Pebble Creek Golf Club will host a Fourth of July golf scramble at its 18-hole course, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa.

The July 4 event begins at 8:30 a.m., with a shotgun start.The scramble will be made up of two-person teams.

Cost is $60 for the public, $50 with an Ace Golf card, or $40 for Pebble Creek members. Included in registration is oncourse contests, drink tickets and specials, raffles and prizes, and a BBQ buffet.

For questions or to sign up, call the golf shop at (813) 973-3870, or email bcuddy@pebblecreekclub.com.

INCREDI-BOWL Z’HILLS RESCHEDULED

The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce’s Incredi-Bowl Z’Hills bowling tournament has been rescheduled to Sept.

12 at Pin Chasers, 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Check-in is from 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., with the tournament running from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Cost is $45 for an individual, or $200 for a team of five players. Signup includes food, unlimited soft drinks, rentals and two hours

www.LakerLutzNews.com

COURTESY OF PASCO-HERNANDO STATE COLLEGE ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

Theo Williams and Daniel Derice.

PHSC basketball standouts sign A pair of former Pasco-Hernando State College (PHSC) men’s basketball standouts will continue their athletics careers at four-year universities.

Daniel Derice, a Wesley Chapel High product, signed with State University of New York at Oneonta, an NCAA Division III program in Oneonta, New York.The 6foot-6 guard/forward led PHSC in scoring of bowling time.Various sponsorships also are available.

Cash prizes will be offered for first, second and third place finishes.The event will also include a wine raffle.

(13.5 points per game), rebounds (8.1 per game) and blocks (1.5 per game) in the 2019-2020 season.

Theo Williams, also a Wesley Chapel High product, signed with Point University, an NAIA program in West Point, Georgia.

The 6-foot-6 center graduated from PHSC in 2019.That season he averaged 6.2 points and 3.4 rebounds per game.

Proceeds from the event will benefit local youth and education programs.

To register or sponsor, email membership@ZephyrhillsChamber.org, or call (813) 782-1913.

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

RANDY UNDERHILL

These giant hay bales are no match for 3-year-old Roselie Nobles.

B

JUNE 24, 2020

Ten-year-old Kayden Bilbery, of Trinity, shows off the trophy he won for winning the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s division of the watermelon-eating contest.

Watermelon festival offers sweet, old-fashioned fun

By Randy Underhill Special to The Laker/Lutz News

I

t was billed as the first annual Lutz Watermelon Festival â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and, the sweet juicy melon was a big draw.

There were watermelon-eating contests for kids and adults, a watermeloncatapult contest, and a Little Miss Watermelon pageant.

Other ways to have fun included a large hay bale walk, tire swings, a rock climbing

tower and a dunk tank.

Festival-goers could grab a bite to eat from a plethora of food trucks, could do some shopping from local vendors and could enjoy music, too.

The event even had free parking.

The festival was held on June 13, an overcast day, at County Line Produce, 206 Newberger Road in Lutz. It was hosted by County Line Produce Company and Intensity Academy Gourmet & Hot Sauce Company.

Christian Northrup, 22, of Lutz, gets ready to enjoy a Maine Lobster roll sandwich from one of the food vendors at the festival.

Pat Largo, of New Port Richey, was master of ceremonies during the Little Miss Watermelon Pageant.

Here, he announces Nicolette Verno, age 7 months, of Rochester, New York, with her mother, Marissa.

Amy Guzzo, 38, of Lutz, chows down on a slice of watermelon during the adult watermelon-eating contest at the first annual Lutz Watermelon Festival. She was declared the contest winner.

Six-year-old Jayceon Rivera, of Lutz, checks his footing on the rock-climbing tower at the festival.

Three-year-old Sebastian Ellis, of Spring Hill, takes this tractor on an imaginary spin, during the watermelon festival in Lutz.

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A surprise greeting Marisol Fontanez snapped a photo of this turtle popping its head up out of the water, possibly to say hello, at the Blue Jay Mobile Home Park in Dade City.

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Include in your short story your pet’s name, age e, and breed.

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Mason works on his tan Mason is a 10-year-young Norfolk Terrier. His hobbies include barking at birds, trying to eat frogs, chasing lizards and working on his tan. He has the eyebrows of a wise old man. Mason lives with the MacKay family in Land O' Lakes.

Email to: mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, SUBJEC CT:: Pet of the Week e Mail to: , P..O. Box 4 479, Lutz, FL 33548

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PET PAWS RED SNAPPER SEASON Recreational red snapper season started June 11, in Gulf state and federal waters, and will remain open through July 25.

For-hire operations that do not have a federal reef fish permit also may participate in the season, but are limited to fishing for red snapper in Gulf state waters only.

If you plan to fish for red snapper from a private recreational vessel, even if you are exempt from fishing license requirements, you must sign up as a Gulf Reef Fish Angler or State Reef Fish Angler when registering after July 1. To learn more, visit MyFWC.com/Marine and click on Recreational Regulations.

When catching red snapper and other deep-water fish, look for symptoms of barotrauma (injuries caused by a change in pressure), such as the stomach coming out of the mouth, bloated belly, distended intestines and bulging eyes. When releasing fish with barotrauma, use a descending device or venting tool to help them survive and return to depth.

For more about fish handling, visit MyFWC.com/FishHandling.

TEN THOUSAND CATCHES

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) TrophyCatch program, now in its eighth season, has awarded prizes for the catch and release of more than 10,000 largemouth bass since the program started in 2012. So far, 8,006 Lunker Club; 1,966 Trophy Club; and 78 Hall of Fame fish comprise this landmark occasion.

The TrophyCatch program rewards anglers who provide documentation of

their catch and release of largemouth bass weighing 8 pounds or heavier, in Florida.

In order to be eligible for prizes, anglers must submit photos or videos of their catch to TrophyCatch.com, showing the entire fish and its weight on a scale, before releasing it back into the water.

The FWC biologists use TrophyCatch data for bass research, too.

Anglers are encouraged to join the program to become citizen scientists, and assist in the management and conservation of Florida’s freshwater fisheries.

For information, email Laura Rambo at Laura.Rambo@MyFWC.com.

NEW FISH RULES APP

Anglers looking to stay up to date on Florida’s saltwater fishing regulations, can now use the Fish Rules app, a partner of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

A freshwater version of the app also is being created and is anticipated to roll out later this summer.

Fishing regulations change depending on your location. Enabling location services in Fish Rules will allow the app to automatically show regulations for your actual location.

And, the app also can help with fish identification, as well as sort fish by name or by picture.

Fish Rules accepts fish photos, too, which can be emailed to photo@fishrulesapp.com.

To learn more, visit FishRuleApp.com, or follow Fish Rules at Instagram.com/FishRulesApp or Facebook.com/FishRules App.

Markus has the cutest smile Stop by and meet Biggie

Biggie was brought in as a stray with some trauma to his eye and a high temperature.

After being evaluated and treated by the medical team, Biggie moved over to the Feline Freedom Room, with his favorite brush. Are you willing to be Biggie's private hairstylist? Visit MyPasco.net/PAS to schedule a visit today.

Markus is an active snuggle bug with a gorgeous champagne coat. At about 5 years old, Markus is the perfect age - past his puppy stage and ready to settle down for a good Netflix binge. He even gives hugs. Markus has previously lived with another dog, and the shelter encourages prospective adopters to bring their pup by so that a team member can facilitate a meet-and-greet.

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

For more information, email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net.

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Joanne Van Atta has been a volunteer at RMCBP for more than 17 years and has logged more than 16,000 hours of service.

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Carol Del Santo began volunteering at RMCBP 30 years ago and has accumulated more than 16,000 hours of service. Del Santo began as a courier and now volunteers as a courier dispatcher. She also was selected as the Volunteer of the Quarter and received Volunteer of the Year in 2018.

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June 24, 2020

5B

High school senior wins honor for civil rights video

By Kathy Steele ksteele@lakerlutznews.com

Aimee Johnson is on track to become a nurse, a profession she loves.

But, this 18-year-old senior at Wiregrass Ranch High School also is an award-winning videographer.

Her 10-minute video on the St.Augustine civil rights movement won a first-place regional award in an annual competition that celebrates National History Day. It is featured at the ACCORD Civil Rights Museum in St.Augustine.

Even though it was “a very prominent movement and had one of the most violent histories,” Johnson said, it also “was a hidden history people didn’t know about.”

She compiled archival photographs and interviewed St.Augustine civil rights activists to tell the story of racial tension and hatred in the mid-1960s.

She started her video journey with a visit to the ACCORD Civil Rights Museum, which holds artifacts from that period, including the fingerprints of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Police arrested the civil rights icon in June 1964 for trespassing when he and others tried to dine at a whites-only restaurant.

It was King’s only arrest in Florida.

Johnson held the document and touched King’s fingerprints.

“It was very eye-opening, and I’m grateful that I got to do something like that,” she said.

“It’s become something more to me. I’m very happy about that.”

The museum is at the former office of dentist and civil rights activist Robert B. Hayling, who is considered the “father” of the St.Augustine civil rights movement.

He headed the St.Augustine NAACP Youth Council before joining with King’s Southern

COURTESY OF AIMEE JOHNSON

Aimee Johnson, who is graduating from Wiregrass Ranch High School, won a first-place regional award in a competition about civil rights history.

Christian Leadership Council.

In addition to her museum visit, Johnson interviewed Janie Price, 98, who first met King at Morehouse College in Atlanta.When King came to St.Augustine in the summer of 1964, he stayed at her house.

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Because of the threats from the Klu Klux Klan, King had to frequently move from one house to another.

Price is remembered as the “house mother” of the St.Augustine civil rights movement.

Robert Batie, who grew up in St. Augustine, recounted an attack on his family.

Someone, believed to be a Klan member, hurled a hub cap through a living room window. Later a soda bottle crashed through another window.The shattered glass wounded Batie, who was just 9 at the time.

He later was among the first blacks to integrate schools in St.Augustine.

The video highlights several historical events, including the sit-in at Woolworth’s lunch counter by 16 teenagers. Four teenagers later arrested and sent to reform school became known as the St. Augustine Four.

In another confrontation, whites and blacks held a “wade-in” at a local motel pool to the dismay of the Klan. The white motel owner threw acid into the pool.

The demonstrations played a pivotal role in the national movement which led to the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

“I actually was always interested in the civil rights movement especially my being a

black woman,” Johnson said. But, Florida often is left out because historians take a more national view of events, she said.

Her interest in history is matched by her passion for creating videos. That seemed a perfect match for her civil rights project.

Still, she wasn’t sure where to start.

However, her mother did. She posted a message on Facebook explaining her daughter’s plan and got a response that led Johnson to Gwendolyn Duncan.

Duncan is a long-time activist who led efforts to found the ACCORD museum, and served as its museum project manager.The name stands for Anniversary to Commemorate the Civil Rights Demonstrations Inc. Duncan helped introduce Johnson to Price and Batie. She also provided a video clip of former Gov. Charlie Crist issuing a resolution to expunge the records of hundreds of civil rights activists arrested in St. Augustine during the demonstrations.

Johnson felt pressure to create a special video.

The night before turning it in, she felt overwhelmed with schoolwork and worried that the video wouldn’t be good enough.

Her Mom set her straight. Just do your best, she said.

“My Mom is always there to support me,” Johnson said.

Winning regionally against about 300 other entries was her reward.

Now, Johnson is focused on her nursing career. She has been a dual enrollment student since ninth grade when she started in the school’s nursing program.

Johnson is vice president of HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America), and is a member of Best Buddies, SADD, Key Club and Bulls Nation.

She is one of seven children from a family that immigrated from Jamaica. It’s also a family with many doctors.

She jokes that the medical show,“Grey’s Anatomy,” showed her that nursing was “cool.”

“I was so interested in it,” she said. But, she is certain nursing is her calling.“It’s become more to me,” she said.“I was able to sink into it.”

She will begin online classes with the University of Central Florida in June, and hopefully will transition to on-campus life in fall.

Even in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, she is steadfast.

“I understand the dangers,” Johnson said.

“I fully understand and truly love the nursing field. I love just being able to help other people.”

To view the video, visit YouTube and search The Civil Rights Act: St.Augustine 1964 NHD/Aimee Johnson.

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