The Laker-East Pasco-June 30, 2021

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Golf course to stay open, for now

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

A roomful of passionate golfers could be seen holding up signs reading,“Save, Save, Save Our Course,” at a June 14 Zephyrhills City Council meeting.

The showy display of activism inside City Hall chambers came in response to recent reports of the Florida Army National Guard

scouting the Zephyrhills Municipal Golf Course as a prime spot for a new $25 million armory development.

Turns out, these residents need not worry about the future of the longstanding 18-hole, par 68 course, after all.

That’s because the National Guard has all but changed course — instead evaluating a number of other would-be armory locations, so as to not impact the golf facility,

located at southwest quadrant of the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport, at 39248 B Ave. This includes strongly considering a 14acre tract on the northside of the municipal airport, Zephyrhills City Manager Billy Poe said during the meeting.

“We’re trying to find another location See GOLF, page 11A

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Tamika Diaz, of Wesley Chapel, leads children in an uplifting and inspirational dance during the Juneteenth Celebration at Union Park.

Wesley Chapel’s Union Park community celebrates Juneteenth

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

The second annual Juneteenth Family Day Celebration in Wesley Chapel’s Union Park community brought on added significance.

Just days prior to the weekend event, the U.S. Senate passed legislation declaring June 19 a federal holiday, and then President Joe Biden signed it into law.

The groundbreaking development brought extra spark to all involved, event organizer Melissa Akers-Atkins acknowledged.

“We were very excited,”Akers-Atkins recently told The Laker/Lutz News. “It happened Thursday, so we were excited that Saturday we were able to announce that and celebrate it again, even more. It was just a little different you know.”

The event was held to commemorate the day – June 19, 1865 – when the last enslaved Blacks, in Galveston, Texas, learned that the Emancipation Proclamation had freed them. Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. The June 19 celebration at Union Park was coordinated by a handful of neighborhood residents, led by Akers-Atkins. Other members of the planning committee included Tamika Diaz,Alexandra Archibald, Mesha Pierre,Talana Brown, Antoine Williams and Michaela Steward.

Songs, dance, music, food, prayer, prizes and fellowship filled a day of activities from

Faraasha Bell Fonoti, 14, and NeVaeh Akers-Atkins, 13, both of Wesley Chapel, receive a round of applause that left them delighted after performing a step dance, which requires the shoes on the pavement to be the percussion aspects of the dance. Derived from African and slave dances, stepping or step dance is energetic and expressive.

1 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Union Park clubhouse on Bering Road.

The festival drew over 100 attendees and also had several Black-owned vendors and other organizations on hand.This included multiple young entrepreneurs like 14-yearold Jordan Parramore, the owner/operator of Jordan’s Juice Bar, selling juice pops and

coco bombs.

The event began with an opening prayer from Carmel Friendship Church pastor Quincy Stratford, then a discussion on the meaning of Juneteenth led by co-organizer Tamika Diaz.

See JUNETEENTH, page 11A

Pasco Tax Collector’s Office adjusting to newfound growth

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano has personally witnessed how the area where he grew up and now governs has evolved over the past several decades.

Case in point: When Fasano moved with his family to the Holiday area some 50 years ago as a 12-year-old boy, he recalls seeing signage advertising homes selling for just $6,999.

That’s quite the far cry from today, with billboards promoting $300,000 to $500,000 residences along State Road 52 and 54.

“It’s just absolutely amazing where we’ve come over time,” said Fasano, speaking during an East Pasco Networking Group breakfast meeting earlier this month, at IHOP in Dade City.

The area’s reputation also is changing, Fasano said.

“Pasco has changed over time, not only politically, but also as far as the businesses in Pasco County.

“We’re no longer the stepchild to Pinellas and Hillsborough (counties), if you will.We’re now looked at as a leading community, and you can see it, especially in the Wesley chapel area, the Land O’ Lakes area,” he said.

The emerging growth in Pasco and surrounding Tampa Bay area is being felt at the local tax collector’s office, too.

Fasano said the agency sees roughly 60,000 in-person customers per week across its five branch offices — in Dade City, Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano Gulf Harbors, Land O’ Lakes, New Port Richey,Wesley Chapel — not including additional services handled via phone, mail or website.

This is up from around 40,000 customers per week at only four branches when Fasano first was appointed to the role in 2013 by then Florida Gov. Rick Scott, and following 18 years served as a legislator in the Florida House and Senate.

Anticipating a forthcoming population boost, the agency swiftly opened a new branch near Wesley Chapel back in August 2014, in Compark 75 at 4610 Pet Lane, just off Wesley Chapel Boulevard.

When it first opened, the office in south-

east Pasco was serving just 50 customers per day, Fasano said.

It’s now averaging anywhere from 600 to 800 customers daily, and is the tax collector’s second-busiest office, he said.

With that, the agency also is considering opening up yet another office somewhere along State Road 54 or State Road 52 near the Suncoast Parkway “because that area is growing,” said Fasano.

“All you need to do is drive up, especially (State Road) 54, it’s luxury apartment complex after luxury apartment complex — a lot of them are younger families needing services, driver’s licenses, (because) they’re moving in from out of state,” he explained.

Busy offices are not just a byproduct of the county’s residential and business growth, however.

Some partly is due to word spreading that the Pasco Tax Collector doesn’t require appointments for service (except for road tests) and also welcomes out-of-county residents from surrounding Hernando, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

Helping non-Pasco residents mitigates financial losses the agency takes on handling motor vehicle-related services, Fasano said, noting it’s Florida Highway Safety and Motor

Vehicles that takes in most of those fees, and not the county.

The blanket, come-all service is something Fasano takes pride in — noting tax collectors in adjacent counties oftentimes require appointments two or three weeks in advance, while only serving their respective county residents.

“We welcome everyone,” Fasano said, proudly.“We have people that come up from Hillsborough County, pleading us,‘Please don’t change it, please don’t change it,’ because they come up there, and wait maybe 30 minutes, 40 minutes or 45 minutes, and they’re able to get the service. It’s either wait 35 or 45 minutes, or you wait three weeks with Hillsborough County to get an appointment.”

Conversely, Fasano pointed out even the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office (and its eight branches) appreciates Pasco shouldering the workload.

“Hillsborough County loves us,” Fasano said.

“They’re happy that we’re taking their customers because it’s less people that have to make these appointments and yell at them down there.

See TAX, page 11A

Tampa International Airport is ‘recovering aggressively’

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

There’s no doubt that Tampa International Airport — like airports across the country — took a major hit from the COVID-19 pandemic, but the airport is taking steps toward an aggressive recovery.

That was a key point shared by Veronica Cintron, the airport’s vice president of communications, during a Zoom presentation in early June to members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.

As more Americans are getting vaccinated — and with summer vacation season here — air travel is experiencing an uptick.

The Tampa airport, known as TPA for short, saw about 62,000 passengers on the Monday of Memorial Day weekend — making it the second busiest day of the pandemic.The only day that had been busier to date was Wrestlemania Sunday, which recorded 66,000 passengers in a single day, Cintron said.

“Leisure is recovering far more aggressively than business,” she told North Tampa Bay Chamber members.

Initial expectations were that it would take two years to three years for business travel to return.

But, Cintron said:“I am telling you, in being at the airport, you’re starting to see those folks who are wearing their logo shirts, they’re wearing company clothes. They’re coming with their carry-ons and you know they’re business travelers. We were not expecting to see that now.”

Business travel is now expected to resume quicker than initially thought, she said.

“We are recovering aggressively. We’re going to get back to 22 million customers very soon, as early as September, we might be back,” she said.

While traffic is picking up now, the bottom dropped out in 2020 because of COVID-19.

The airport was coming off 22 million passengers in 2019, leading up to the pandemic.

“Early on, we got hit. Think about the impact when you see, at your worst, in this pandemic, we saw maybe 1,500 passengers in one day. In one day, for an entire airport complex.Think about that,” she said.

“It was eerie. It was like a ghost town.

“So, for our retailers and our restaurants, and the different concessionaires that operate out of the airport, many of them had to close.

It was not sustainable to be open, when nobody is coming,” Cintron said.

The airport’s revenue losses exceeded $300 million, Cintron said, which is amplified because the airport is a regional economic driver.

Still, she noted:“During shutdowns all over the country, people were still flying here.They wanted to be outside. They wanted to enjoy

COURTESY OF TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Tampa International Airport is using a number of approaches to keep passengers safe during COVID-19. Here, passengers are shown social distancing at airport shuttles, which are used to get to the gates.

Tampa International Airport By the Numbers • Four airsides/58 gates • 70 shops and restaurants • 23,000 parking spaces • 500 daily flight operations • 90-plus nonstop destinations • 30 international destinations

Veronica Cintron is the vice president of communications at Tampa International Airport.

those outdoor attractions,” Cintron said, and they wanted to enjoy the area’s beautiful beaches.

TPA also was one of the first to develop a comprehensive safety program. It installed acrylic barriers, instituted social distancing for seating and required masks.

“We led the nation in doing so, really creating a model for other airports to follow, at a time of great uncertainty,” Cintron said, and the airport’s efforts led to international recognition.

The financial well-being of the airport has a spillover effect on the region.

As the nation’s 28th busiest airport, TPA supports 10,500 jobs directly and 121,000 jobs indirectly. It has an estimated $14 billion impact on the economy.

The three largest airlines, by market share at TPA, are Southwest,American and Delta.The most popular markets for passengers flying

Closer Look a N

a d v e r T i S e r

P r o f i L e

Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers Opens its Doors in Dade City

By Nicole Sanchez Special to The Laker / Lutz News

2A

June 30, 2021

• No. 1 Medium-size Airport in U.S., 2019, Wall Street Journal • No. 2 Large Airport in North America, J.D. Power • No. 2 Best Large Airport, USA Today • Top 3 Airports in North America; Top 5 Airports in the World, Airports Council International

from TPA are New York, Chicago and Atlanta, Cintron said.

There are about 500 daily flight operations at TPA, including 90 nonstop destinations.The airport has about 30 international destinations.

As TPA looks ahead, it is always seeking to enhance its services, Cintron said.

Recently, Breeze Airways chose TPA for its inaugural market with nonstop flights from Tampa to Charleston, South Carolina.The airline plans to operate 10 inaugural routes from TPA, mostly to cities not currently served, including Louisville, Kentucky and Richmond, Virginia.

“When there’s competition, it benefits all of us,” Cintron said.

TPA’s international travel is beginning to pick up, but that’s happening gradually, Cintron said.

Copa Airline, which serves Panama City, Panama, returned to the airport in early June, and British Airways was expected to return later in the month. Grand Cayman expects to return this fall.

All of those plans are subject to change, however, because of the uncertainty about international travel at this point in the

• No. 4 Best Airport in U.S., Travel and Leisure

Source: Tampa International Airport

pandemic, Cintron said.

TPA continues planning for the future.

“Airport expansion is a key thing to make sure we are prepared for more passengers,” she said.

“Whether we’re a 22 million passenger a year airport, or a 25 million passenger a year airport, we are going to have the infrastructure to support that kind of traffic and demand.”

And, regardless if it’s building a new airside, adding an office tower, expanding parking or increasing shopping and dining options — the focus is on the customer experience, Cintron said.

“If our customers are happy, we’re doing our jobs and we take a lot of pride in doing that.

“We didn’t get the title of America’s favorite airport because we were offering three-star service. Everything we do at Tampa International Airport, we do as a five-star service for our customers,” Cintron said.

FREE Pregnaancy Te Tests • Ultrasound by Appointment • Pregnancy Options Counseling • Pregnancy & Parenting Classes Provide Ess sential Baby Items • Community Resources & Refe errals Services prrovided in English and Spanish S ALL Services are FREE and Conffidential “Serving our community for Liife”

NEW LOCA ATION NOW W OPEN!

Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers, a nonprofit that offers support to women experiencing a planned or unplanned pregnancy, recently has opened its fourth location in downtown Dade City.

The nonprofit, founded by Pete Castellani, got started in 2009 when it opened in Land O’ Lakes. Over the past 12 years, Oasis has successfully expanded into other areas like Wesley Chapel and Tampa.

In late 2020, Castellani got a call from two local Dade City figures about an opportunity for a fourth location.

Randy Huckabee, pastor of First Baptist Church of Dade City, and Larry Guilford, founder of Make A Difference, reached out to Castellani and suggested he take over a vacant center located at 37522 Meridian Ave. “We brought the idea to our board, discussed it with the church, and low and behold we opened our fourth center on May 11,” says Castellani.

Castellani has been overwhelmed by the success and response he has received in Dade City.

“The whole community, including different organizations, churches, and political figures, has given us so much support. It’s been such a welcoming, friendly, great experience coming into this area,” said Castellani.

Castellani semi-retired in January. Taking his place as Executive Director is April Beck.

Beck was instrumental in leading the renovation and opening of the Dade City center.

As of now, the center is only open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m.

Lora Novak and Pete Castellani

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Pete Castellani cuts the ribbon during the grand opening of the Dade City Oasis Pregnancy Care Center, standing between Lora Novak (left) and April Beck (right). They are joined by local Dade City residents and dignitaries.

to 2 p.m., but Oasis Dade City Director Lora Novak hopes to expand those hours as more people take advantage of its services.

Every service that’s offered to mothers and their partners are completely free, including pregnancy tests, a first limited OB ultrasound for proof of pregnancy is offered at no charge, and Bright Course lessons that are carried until the baby turns 1 year old.

Bright Course lessons, which are in both English and Spanish, educate mothers and their partners on what to expect in their pregnancy, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, and so much more.

Mothers earn points as they complete the different lessons, which can be redeemed at Oasis’ in-house baby boutique filled with new and gently used baby items.

“We provide bibs to cribs, and everything in between,” said Novak.

Oasis stresses the importance of mothers taking time to make their decision on childbirth.

“We always want them to choose life, but that’s ultimately their decision,” said Novak, “We would be there for them for counseling and services in the future, no matter what choice they decide to make.”

For more information on the Dade City center and its services, go to OasisPregnancyCenter.org, or to donate or volunteer, visit HeartsForOasis.org.

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Barbecue and classic car event planned for July 4 weekend

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

A Backyard BBQ and Classic Car Show has been set for Independence Day weekend, in downtown Zephyrhills.

The Zephyrhills City Council cleared the way for the event, by granting a special event request from the Zephyrhills chapter of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles.

The downtown event, set for July 3 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., will require the closure of some downtown streets.

The streets that will be closed from noon to 10 p.m. are: • Fifth Avenue, from Seventh Street to Ninth Street • Eighth Street, from Fourth Avenue to Sixth Avenue Alcohol will be available in a designated area, with off-duty Zephyrhills Police Department officers on hand throughout the event.

City staff recommended approval of the request, which council members approved unanimously at their June 14 meeting.

An online flyer of the event promotes vendors, hot rods, prizes, live bands, barbecue contests, a full bar and more.

While council members expressed enthusiasm for having the event during the Independence Day weekend, they also advised event organizers that in the future they must coordinate downtown events in advance through Main Street Zephyrhills Inc., and the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

Such coordination is intended to help prevent scheduling conflicts with other downtown events and to control the closure of roads, which could affect surrounding businesses and properties along Fifth Avenue, they said.

Council Vice President and CRA Board President Jodi Wilkeson made those issues clear during the meeting.

But she added:“I think this is a great op-

COURTESY OF ZEPHYRHILLS EAGLES #3752 FACEBOOK PAGE

The event on July 3 will feature barbecue contests and a classic car show.

portunity for the Eagles to promote the downtown community.”

City Manager Billy Poe addressed the councilwoman’s concerns directly.

He explained now that Main Street has just filled its director position with the hiring of Faith Wilson, staffers will be more insistent with local organizations wishing to host downtown events to follow proper communication channels.

“That conversation’s gonna ramp up a little bit more,” Poe said.“I think as we move forward, we’ll have some more communication about different events and how do we coordinate everything together.”

That said, Poe suggested the council go ahead and approve this latest request from the Eagles.

“What the Eagles are putting on is what we want downtown,” Poe said, noting their prior events have attracted visitors from Lakeland and other locales.

Council President Alan Knight added

he’s “very happy” to see the downtown barbecue and car show come about.

But Knight wanted assurance from the organization that attendees limit alcohol consumption to a specified block, and not

throughout the entire event.

“We just don’t want (drinkers) wandering around or running through town,” Knight said.

Zephyrhills Eagles representative Reed Sutton said the group is amenable to each of the council’s requests and accommodations.

“We are a nonprofit organization, and we are here to help downtown Zephyrhills to grow back up and be something exciting,” Sutton told council members.

“We will do whatever we have to do to work with you city members…and whatever you need from us, we’re here, and we’ll back ya’ll and do whatever we have to do,” Sutton added.

The Zephyrhills Eagles run their charity operation out of a two-story former bank brick building, at 38421 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills Their regular events and programming include bingo, darts, pool, card games, karaoke, live music, line dancing instruction, and more.

The international nonprofit organization was founded “on a premise of proud, caring, people helping people with a passion for community service.”

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Pasco County offices closed July 5 The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

In observance of Independence Day (July 4), the Pasco Board of County Commissioners’ offices will be closed July 5.The offices will reopen on July 6.

The five Pasco County Tax Collector Offices also will be closed on July 5, and will reopen at 8:30 a.m., on July 6, for normal business.

The Pasco County Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources offices, recreation complexes and community centers will be closed July 5; however, the parks and beaches will stay open to the public from dawn

to dusk.

Pasco County Public Transportation will be closed, and bus and paratransit services will not run on July 5.

Other closures for July 5 include all Pasco County libraries, and the Pasco County Animal Services administration office, adoption center, intake/reclaim shelter, and its field services.An animal control officer will be available for emergencies only.

The Pasco County Resource Recovery Facility, West Pasco Class III, and the East Pasco Transfer Station also will be closed on July 5; however, both will be open to Pasco County licensed commercial haulers.

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21501 Village Lakes Center Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 Correction: Retired U.S. Marine Corp. Maj. Gen. James S.“Hammer” Hartsell is the executive director of the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs. An incorrect title was published in The Laker/Lutz News on June 23.

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June 30, 2021

3A

What’s Happening

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

LODGE BINGO

NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY

John Nelson Memorial Fraternal of Police Lodge 29, near the corner of Bell Lake Road and Land O’ Lakes Boulevard (U.S. 41), in Land O’ Lakes, offers bingo every Tuesday evening. Doors open at 4 p.m., and bingo starts at 6 p.m. Guests can bring outside food and drinks. No one younger than age 18 will be admitted. Due to construction, entrance to the lodge is by way of a driveway from Bell Lake Road. For information, call 813-406-5611, or visit foplodge29bingo on Facebook.

Avalon Park 4th of July

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will host its 4th of July Celebration on July 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The event will include a patriotic bake-off, a bike parade, bounce houses, food trucks, community performances, and vendors/exhibitors. For information and details, call 813-783-1515.

Annual Summerfest

The sixth annual Summerfest, a 4th of July Celebration, will take place July 4 from noon to 9 p.m., at Zephyr Park in Zephyrhills. There will be live music, a vendor market, pony rides, food trucks, bounce houses, water slides, games and giveaways, and fireworks when it gets dark.

Admission is free. For information, call 727-674-1464.

BE A MOVIE EXTRA

Freedom Fest

An independent film production company will start filming a feature-length, lowbudget horror film in Dade City, in August.

The film, entitled “Bed of Nails,” is being produced by the Cape Coral-based Bad Clown Films.The movie is scheduled for release in October 2022. Primary filming should take about 10 days to 14 days on private acreage in Dade City. The production is looking for local Dade City residents as extras, as well as a competent, local production assistant.The company also will be looking to fill one of the roles for one of the country folk characters.

Anyone interested should contact the film office at malottfilms@outlook.com, or call 239-257-1035 for more information.

BIRD PROGRAM

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host “Shake Your Tail Feathers” on June 30 at 6:30 p.m., for all ages. Participants can see live birds and learn about various species of birds from around the world. Registration is through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org.

DINOSAUR EGGS

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer an animal-themed craft video on July 1 at 10 a.m. Participants will use their own supplies and follow along to make dinosaur eggs.Visit Facebook.com/CPLib.

TURTLE CRAFT

The Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., will offer take-and-make turtle crafts on July 1 and July 2, and on July 8 and July 9.

Supplies are included along with step-bystep instructions.There are different crafts for ages 3 to 5, and ages 6 and older. One craft per child, per visit, while supplies last.

For information, call 813-780-0064.

PREHISTORIC STORY TIME

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a virtual prehistoric story time on July 1 at 10 a.m., with the reading of “Dinosaurs Love Underpants.”

To view the video, please visit Facebook.com/southholidaylib/.

ANIMAL TRIVIA

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present “Famous Animal Trivia” on July 2 at 6 p.m., for ages 18 and older, via Zoom.

Participants can test their knowledge about animals that have become stars on the screen, in literature, and on the internet.

Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org. A link will be provided after registration.

BLOCK PARTY

The Tampa Theatre will host a block party on July 2 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., in front of the theater, to celebrate the “Summer of Soul” documentary. There will be musicians, dancers, community partners and vendors.Admission to the block party is free for all ages.Tickets for the 7:30 p.m. screening of the documentary are $11.50.

The American Victory Ship, docked behind The Florida Aquarium in Tampa, will host a Freedom Fest for guests to view Tampa’s 4th of July boat parade, fireworks and a Blessing of the Fleet, on July 4 from 6 p.m. to 9:15 p.m. The boat parade is scheduled to arrive alongside the ship at 6:30 p.m., and fireworks are scheduled for 9:15 p.m. There also will be adult refreshments, food trucks, a Kids Zone, musical entertainment, festive characters, photo ops, dancing, games, and a silent auction with military collectibles and sports memorabilia. No outside food or beverages will be allowed on board. Tickets are $14 for adults, $7 for ages 4 to 12, $11 for military, veterans and first responders. Kids ages 3 and younger are free. There is a discount available for groups of 10 or more. Admission does not include food or beverages. To purchase, visit Eventbrite.com.

Free train rides

The Grand Concourse Railroad will offer free train rides on July 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at The Concourse, 11919 Alric Pottberg Road in Spring Hill, as part of the nation’s July 4th birthday weekend. Donations will be gratefully accepted. For information, call 727-639-7639.

For details, tickets and additional showtimes, please visit TampaTheatre.org/movie/summer-of-soul/.

SAFARI CRAFT

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a curbside-pickup craft based on a safari story theme on July 3 at 10 a.m., while supplies last. For information, call 813-929-1214.

CLASSIC MOVIES

Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., in downtown Tampa, will present these films as part of its Summer Classics Movie Series.

• “Glory” (1989): July 4 at 3 p.m., and July 8 at 7:30 p.m.

• “North By Northwest” (1959): July 11 at 3 p.m., and July 15 at 7:30 p.m.

• “The Big Lebowski” (1998): July 18 at 3 p.m., and July 22 at 7:30 p.m.

• “Jaws” (1975): July 25 at 3 p.m., and July 29 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $10 at the box office, $12 online, and $7 for Tampa Theatre members.

For information, visit TampaTheatre.org.

PILLOW PETS

The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will offer a take-andmake craft from July 6 to July 10, for adults, tweens and teenagers. Participants can make a pillow pet. Supplies are limited. Call 813-788-6375 for information.

SAFARI STORY

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer a virtual summer safari story time on July 8 at 10 a.m., with the reading of “Lion and the Mouse.”To access the video, visit Facebook.com/southholidaylib/.

TIGER DRAWING

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will offer a craft video on July 8 at 10 a.m.

Participants can use their own supplies to follow along the video and create a tiger drawing/craft.Visit Facebook.com/CPLib to access the video.

TRAIL TALES

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host “Tales from the Trail” on July 8 at 4 p.m. Local author and hiking enthusiast

Bob Harrison will share his Florida wilderness hikes and Appalachian Trail experiences — from suffering heat exhaustion to finding himself lost in the forest to a close encounter with a bear.

Register for the event at PascoLibraries.org.

DRAW SAFARI ANIMALS

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a Zoom drawing lesson on July 8 at 4 p.m. Participants should have paper, pencils and coloring materials on hand to follow along with the art lesson.

Registration is required, and a Zoom link will be emailed out. For questions and information, email emilyb@pascolibraries.org.

CREEPY CRAWLIES

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a Summer Reading Club curbside craft kit on July 10 starting at 10 a.m., while supplies last.The theme will be Creepy Crawlies. For information, call 813929-1214.

BOOK LAUNCH

Bridgeway Church, 30660 Wells Road in Wesley Chapel, will host a launch party on July 11 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., for the release of the Bible study book,“Hezekiah: A Conversation With the Enemy,” by Liz Lyon-Hall.The event will include light hors d’oeuvres and drinks. Bring or buy the book for the signing. Reservations are not required, but an RSVP would be appreciated at LizLyon-Hall.com.

SUMMER CAMP

Hope Services, a vocational service provider for people living with disabilities, will host a Vocational Summer Camp from July 12 to July 16, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road, for ages 16 to 22.The camp will include the fundamentals of job interviewing, resume writing, games, arts and crafts, guest speakers, outdoor recreation, field trips and more. Space is limited. Register at HopeGetsJobs.com/register. For information, contact Julia Harter at 863670-1438 or jharter@hopegetsjobs.com.

The Nature Coast Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society will meet on July 13 at 7 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Jessica Koelsch Bibza will present “Sea Turtles in the Gulf of Mexico Post Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill.”

Meetings are free. Participants should bring their own refreshments, and wear a mask.

For information, call 813-469-9597, or visit PascoNativePlants.org.

EAST PASCO NETWORKING

The East Pasco Networking Group will meet on July 13 at 7:30 a.m., at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center, 6585 Simons Road in Zephyrhills.The guest speaker will be Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.

ART EXHIBITION

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

MEN’S DIVORCE SUPPORT

Emerge Strong-Divorce Coaching for Men will host a men’s divorce support group, via Zoom, the first and fourth Thursday of every month, at 7 p.m. Participants can meet others going through similar circumstances. Register on Facebook @TheDivorceCoachForMen, or email TheDivorceCoachForMen@gmail.com.

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS

The Harlem Globetrotters’ Spread Game Tour will visit Tampa’s Yuengling Center on July 25 at 2 p.m.The Globetrotters have been committed to spreading joy through artful athleticism and unparalleled basketball skills, and to bringing a voice to social justice conversations.Tickets start at $20 and are available at Ticketmaster.com.

Advanced parking passes are available at ParkWhiz.com.

EXTENSION CAMPS

UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension 4-H will host summer day camps (at various locations) through July 28, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ages 5 to 18.The program is designed to explore the environment, wildlife, engineering, art, science and more.

Day camp activities include horseback riding, cooking, fishing and gardening.The cost for each camp ranges from $15 to $40 per person. Spots are limited. Registration is required at bit.ly/4HSummerDayCamps.

For information, call 352-518-0156, or email sreighter@mypasco.net.

HELP SHERIFF’S OFFICE HELP OTHERS

The Pasco Sheriff’s Office is hosting its PSO4Kids Drive now through July 31, for children in need. Donations of clothing and hygiene items will be collected at the PSO’s three district offices, as well as the Land O’ Lakes Detention Center lobby.

Drop-off locations are: • District I Office, 7432 Little Road, New Port Richey • District II Office, 36409 State Road 52, Dade City • District III Office, 11530 Trinity Blvd.,Trinity • Land O’ Lakes Detention Center, 20101 Central Blvd., Land O’ Lakes

Fourth of July parade canceled

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club has announced that there will not be a Lutz 4th of July parade and celebration this year. The club is the major sponsor of the popular annual event, but was unable to execute the planning due to the ongoing stringent Hillsborough County COVID restrictions. The sanctions only recently have been relaxed, which did not permit sufficient time to arrange or to have the use of the county facilities necessary for the production. The woman’s club is looking ahead to July 2022, in which the event once again will include the Lutz Guv’na race, the parade, the cake-bake contest, the footrace, and food and activity booths.

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Don’t Miss All The 4th of July Fun At Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

O

ne of Wesley Chapel’s biggest events of the year is this Sunday’s 4th of July Celebration at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

The fun begins at 5 p.m., with a bike parade, bake-off, local musical groups, bounce park, exhibitors and vendors, and ends with a bang at 9 p.m., with one of the area’s largest fireworks displays.

“If you have not yet visited Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, our 4th of July celebration is a great way to experience the fun, family atmosphere we offer every day of the year,” says Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing for the Avalon Park Group. “Guests are also welcome to come by earlier in the day to visit our model homes and learn more about the big plans we have for our masterplanned community.”

A NEW HOMETOWN

Families choose to live in Avalon Park Wesley Chapel because it is so much more than just another subdivision with homes and amenities.

“We are not just developers — we bring together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future,” said Lerret.

Established in 2012, Avalon Park Wesley Chapel is conveniently located on State Road 54, just a few miles east of Interstate 75. Over 1,000 homes have been completed or are underway, and residents enjoy unique amenities, neighborhood schools, and a great location with easy access to Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando.

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel offer

include Movies under the Stars, food trucks and large holiday celebrations.

DOWNTOWN AVALON PARK

homes for all demographics — from Avex Homes also is selling singleyoung families buying their first family homes and townhomes in home, to folks looking to move up to Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. It offers a new home in an upscale communi- several single-family floor plans, and ty, to empty-nesters wanting the 3-bedroom, two-bath townhomes convenience of the nothat include two-car fuss, townhome lifestyle. garages and private al“We have homes FREE 4th of July leys in the rear. priced for all budgets Celebration Few communities and all times of life,” exoffer the recreational acSunday, July 4 plains Lerret. tivities found at Avalon Begins at 5 p.m.

Two premier builders, Park Wesley Chapel. A Avex Homes and D.R. Fireworks at 9 p.m. second amenity center Horton, offer single-fam- • Bike Parade recently opened, and it ily and townhomes • Bake-Off includes a zero-entry priced from the mid • Local Musical Groups pool, splash pad, spa, • Bounce Park $200s to over $400s. and picnic area.

D.R. Horton is plan- • Exhibitors Families also can ning to build 30 new enjoy a second swimhomes a month in its ming pool, tot lot, new community, Westgate at Avalon basketball courts, pocket parks with Park, which is located in the north- mini-libraries, dog park, and trails west section of the development. Its and walkways that will eventually infirst homes will be ready for move-in terconnect with its planned later this year and in early 2022. downtown. Ongoing monthly events

Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will offer places to shop and work in its downtown hub that will be connected to its residential neighborhoods by tree-lined streets, walkways and bike paths.

“We are building a traditional downtown, with stores located inside of our community on the boulevard leading to our residences, parks and schools,” said Lerret.

The first phase of downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel breaks ground this fall, and includes a community park with amphitheater and five distinct buildings; an office building, two mixed-use buildings with apartments above the storefronts, and two multi-family apartment buildings.

“We are building beautiful, multistory 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.

At build out, Avalon Park’s downtown will have more than 400,000 square feet of retail and 100,000 square feet of office space. This 1,650acre master-planned community is approved for 4,400 single and multifamily homes, and is projected to be home to 10,000 residents.

For more information about Avalon Park, call 813-783-1515, email info@AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com or go to AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com.

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

June 30, 2021

Cornerstone’s Savings Club Will Keep Your Home Mechanical Systems In Top Condition

I

t costs much less to maintain your home’s mechanical equipment than it costs to repair it. Yet, 90% of breakdowns are caused because many homeowners seldom (or never) have their equipment serviced by a licensed service technician.

People incorrectly assume that their heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical systems can fend for themselves. But that’s not the case.

Without proper service, these systems will break down, and often do so during the hottest day of the summer, or when you have guests in town.

For problem-free operation, your equipment requires regular service and seasonal inspections. Properly maintained equipment cools, heats and dehumidifies better, and increases your comfort by: • Extending your equipment’s lifespan • Reducing your carbon footprint • Improving your indoor air quality • Minimizing the need for repairs Without regular maintenance, your air conditioner and heating system lose about 5 % of its original efficiency per year of operation. In fact, studies show that regular maintenance not only protects the lifespan of your system, but also helps you recover lost efficiency.

This means when you invest in an annual maintenance plan, your HVAC unit will retain up to 95% of its efficiency for years to come. And, to make it easy to plan ahead, Cornerstone Pros has a new Savings Club that at just $9.95 a month easily fits into most family budgets.

BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP

When you subscribe to the Savings Club, you receive the benefit of priority customer status. Other benefits include: • Reliable home comfort • Improved indoor air quality • Reduced risk of costly breakdowns • Increased efficiency and reduced energy costs • Ensured safe operation of equipment

CORNERSTONE PROS SAVINGS CLUB INCLUDES:

• Priority installation of HVAC systems, water heaters, electrical panels, re-pipes—home comfort necessities products • Priority online scheduling for emergency services • 10% service repair discounts • 2-year HVAC extended parts and labor warranty for parts installed by Cornerstone (Excludes coil, compressors, TXV, reversing valves, drain lines, tankless water heaters and mini split systems.)

• 77-point precision air conditioning tune-up and professional cleaning semi-annually • AC system drain line flush performed at each visit; clear line guarantee for 30 days • 43-point whole-home plumbing inspection and water heater flush annually • Electrical safety inspection annually or 1 free service call per year (normal business hours) • Discounted service fees—normal and after hours • Discounted holiday service fee rates

Joining our Savings Club is easy!

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

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

Some new amenities at Shadow Wood Village include a large shaded dog park, and a nature park with a gas fire pit and gazebo.

Beautiful New Homes At Shadow Wood Village

S

hadow Wood Village has spacious new manufactured homes for sale at very affordable prices, combined with a great location minutes from the Gulf of Mexico in Hudson.

Located just 30 minutes from Land O’ Lakes, these homes feature open floor plans that boast front porches, great rooms, two bedrooms, two full baths, and a den perfect for an office or craft room. Every home has a covered carport with a large, secure storage area, and steps leading from the driveway to the laundry area and kitchen.

Floor plans range from 1,234 to 1,568 square feet, and feature the latest in home design trends. Kitchens offer lots of cabinets and a large island for bar stools and conversation. Quality blinds and appliances, including the refrigerator, are included.

Shadow Wood Village has 11 new homes coming on the market that are expected to sell quickly, to those age 55 and older. In addition, lot reservations are now being accepted for homesites in a new expansion section of the community, which are being readied for 45 new homes arriving in 2022.

With the 11 new homes, Shadow Wood Village is a robust community of 207 homes. Most residents live in the

village year-round, which results in an exceptionally strong sense of community.

“Our residents have a sincere respect for others – it’s truly a caring culture,” says Community Manager Tabitha Klinakis. “When family visits, residents are proud to show them around and they are welcomed by the entire community. And when grandkids come to visit, they become everyone’s grandkids.”

The calendar at Shadow Wood is full of activities and social gatherings.

Residents enjoy an array of amenities, including a heated pool, pickleball, bocce, horseshoes and shuffleboard. Its recently remodeled clubhouse has a fitness center, library, media room and game room.

The newest amenity is a nature park, located in a serene, wooded area with shady tree coverage and privacy. The park has an inviting gazebo, gas fire pit, winding brick paths and flower gardens.

A large dog park, complete with its own doggie water fountain, has lots of shade for both residents and pets.

Shadow Wood welcomes dogs of all sizes, with some breed limitations.

Please call Tabitha to schedule your tour of Shadow Wood Village at 877-360-1124, or email tklinakis@suncommunities.com.

BRAND B RAND N NEW EW H HOMES OMES UNDER $150,000 $150,000 UNDER HEA ATED POOL, PICKLEBALL, SHUFFLEBOARD, BOCCE BALL, FITNESS CENTER,, LIBRARY, Y, GAME ROOM, DOG PARK, RENOV VATED CLUBH HOUSE W/KITCHEN, GA AZEBO, FIRE PIT

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24547 HIDEOUT TRL, LAND O LAKES, FL 34639

This Rutenburg Bonaire III is located on over an acre of land and on a private ski lake in Outlaw Lake Estates. 4 bedroom (plus office), 3.5 baths, 4 car garage is loaded with upgrades. Formal living room, kitchen, family room, and bonus room overlook the pool area and the lake. Separate in-law suite from the other two bedrooms and bath to offer privacy to guests or the in-laws.

Priced at $979,000.

Stephanie Meid, Realtor (813) 695-0234 stephaniemeid1@gmail.com NOW INTERVIEWING AGENTS! 3948 Lake Padgett Dr. • Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 • 813-996-4747

M ak e C Make Club lub Wildwood Wildwood Your Next Next Home!

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Welcom me to Shadow Wood Village, an ag ge qualified Manufactured d Hom me Community where your drea ams of homeownership in Florid da can become a reality. We have e beautiful homes, friendly neighbors, numerous community activities, and an impressive amenity package. And, as a resid dent of Hudson, enjoy easy access to the gorgeous Florida coast and a its numerous attractio ons.

• Olympic­size heated swimming pool — 85,000 gallons • Renovated clubhouse with fitness center, game room, library & community activities.

• Outdoor fun — shuffleboard, bocce ball, horseshoe pits, dog park, fishing

Feattured t d Homes: H

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

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HOMES FOR SALE DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH!! Bring all investors and flippers. Here is a gem waiting to be turned into someone's dream home! Great 165x140 - 1/2 acre lot. Brand new A/C. Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712

WATERFRONT LOTS WEEKI WACHEE Beautiful WATERFRONT property! Build here and watch the sunset over the water right from your own piece of paradise. OWNER FINANCING AVAILABLE! Call Stacy Gervais at 813-842-3077 PICTURESQUE WATERFRONT LOT Come build your dream home in the heart of Land O' Lakes! Beautiful High and dry lot on a canal. Canal connects to Green Lake.

Ready for the Boat and Friends! Make watersports your passion and life style with skiing and fishing out your back door!

Call Cody Adams at 813-909-0712

VACANT PROPERTY KING LAKE IN LAND O’ LAKES Ready for your dream home! 1/2 Acre Lot with Lake access to King Lake a 122 acre private lake. Ready for Fishing and boating!!

Common lake access for property owners' use. Property is located at end cul-de-sac and surrounded by large mature trees.

Easy access to Tampa via I-75 or Suncoast Expressway. Call Cody at 813-909-0712

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

• • • •

Great rates Up to $2500 in closing costs *Home purchase only Flexible home loans including refinance No lender fees

Disclaimer: The application of additional loan level pricing adjustments will be determined by various loan attributes such as Loan-To-Value (LLTTV) ratio, credit score, transaction type, property type, product type, occupancy, and subordinate financing.

Your actual rate, payment, and costs could be higher.

A PROFESSIONAL APPROACH TO FIRE EARM TRAINING

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. Almost 3 acres. NO DEED RESTRICTIONS! City water available. Property can be subdivided into two lots. Build on one and sell the other. $299,900 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

HOMES SOLD FAST!

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

Building A New Home Is The Best Option In A Seller’s Market

I

f you’re looking to buy a home today, you know it is a very robust and competitive real estate market, especially here in Pasco County with its highly desirable masterplanned communities, excellent schools and superior road network.

For ICI Homes, one of Florida’s most respected custom builders, Pasco is the hub of its Tampa Bay operations. Its team is dedicated to helping families find beautiful lots and select from a variety of floor plans in three of Pasco’s most prestigious— Asturia in Odessa, Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel, and Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City.

“While homes are selling quickly everywhere, we work closely with buyers to find the perfect homesite and floor plan in a community that is best suited for their lifestyle,” said Greg Jones, Tampa Division Manager for ICI Homes.

For those needing to relocate quickly, ICI Homes has showcase homes in each community that will be available for sale later this summer. “These move-in-ready homes are not yet being advertised, but we are inviting people to give us a call to learn more about them, so they are ready when they become available,” said Jones.

Fortunately, most families can plan ahead, and many are choosing ICI Homes as their builder because they are able to customize their home and have it ready in as little as eight months — the same length it takes most national production builders to complete a home.

“Building a new home gives you control — you can choose the community, homesite and floor plan best for you, rather than settling for someone else’s tastes,” said Jones.

“Building new is really the best way to go today, instead of getting trapped in bidding wars and dealing with the uncertainty and hassles that come with a seller’s market.”

The amenity center at Persimmon Park in Wesley Chapel has a unique, T-shaped luxury pool, cabanas, grilling area and gated playground.

ICI COMMUNITY UPDATES

ICI Homes has been building homes in Asturia since 2017, and is the exclusive builder in this development’s final phase.

“Asturia is such a great community to live that in just four months we have sold half of the 22 lots available in its final phase,” said Jones. “If you want to be close to the convenience of the Suncoast Parkway, and live in the vibrant Land O’ Lakes and Trinity area, please come by our sales center soon, while we still have lots available.”

Families wanting a Wesley Chapel address will fall in love with Persimmon Park, a unique community of less than 250 homes located in the Wiregrass Ranch masterplanned community. ICI Homes has homes beginning in the $300s, and this affordability has moved sales along exceptionally well, with 80% of homesites sold. All homes have

open floor plans with front porches, and garages and alleys at the back of the home.

Persimmon Park recently celebrated the grand opening of its amenity center, which includes a unique, T-shaped luxury pool with cabanas and grilling area. Coming soon will be dog parks for small and large breeds, and paved trails that connect to the Wiregrass recreational parkway system.

July is an exciting time for Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City, when ICI Homes is opening its new model. Lake Jovita offers scenic views on 1,054 acres of rolling hills and beautiful lakes, winding through 36 holes of a nationally acclaimed championship golf course.

ICI Homes has chosen its most popular floor plans for Lake Jovita, all with family friendly layouts, where cooking, dining, relaxing and entertaining happen cohesively.

Homes feature an abundance of windows that bring the outside in.

Start your search for a new home on the ICI Homes website, which is stocked with 3D virtual tours, photo galleries, interactive floor plans, and much more. Online sales staff can answer your questions, get you the information you need and connect you with an ICI Homes community sales associates.

Model homes in Asturia and Persimmon Park are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday. The Asturia model is at 2112 Secret Cove in Odessa, and the Persimmon Park model is at 3793 Lajuana Blvd., Wesley Chapel.

Call 813-252-1108, or go to ICIHomes.com, to schedule a VIP appointment for a new homesite in the Lake Jovita Golf and Country Club in Dade City. The sales center there at 12330 Lake Jovita Blvd., in Dade City.

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itchie Nevels is a passionate man who started his business three years ago on the basic principal of treating all customers fairly and equitably.

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The response from homeowners has far exceeded Nevels’ expectation.

Every year he has doubled his business, including in 2020 with the challenges presented by COVID-19.

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Air 24/7 technicians are paid well and don’t earn commission. “There

The customer service staff at Air 24/7 includes, from the left, Selena Ramdihall, Sara Ford, Owners Ritchie and Lori Nevels, Jennifer Giles and Nikki Wetherington.

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Air 24/7’s advertising motto is “No hassles, no headaches and no hidden fees. Guaranteed!”

“And, we absolutely mean it,” said Nevels. “No one likes surprises, especially when you are unexpectedly spending thousands of dollars on a new A/C system for your home during the hottest month of the year.

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GOLF, from page 1A (for the armory),” Poe said. “Nothing has been finalized yet, but we are working on that.”

State lawmakers recently approved allocating the substantial appropriation to the military organization, for a future training ground in Zephyrhills. (Armories are used for equipment storage, recruiting, personal training, educational training, and general administration offices.)

While an armory location has not yet been finalized, the city manager assured council members and residents the city golf course more than likely will stay in operation.

Said Poe,“I can’t say that it’s completely off the table until everything’s signed, but the serious conversations are on the other (14-acre) parcel, because the guard realizes that they don’t want to take over an existing golf course; they’ve made that comment.”

Poe also made clear that he’ll keep the community abreast on any changes in conversations between the city and the guard.

“It’s not a decision that’s made in the dark, in a vacuum by staff,” he said.

“It has to come back before council, so right now, the guard is evaluating if that 14 acres is sufficient for their needs.

“The last conversation we had (with the guard), it appeared to be, so that is the direction we’re moving — the golf course will remain, and the guard will land on another property.”

The municipal golf facility was established in 1957, then opened in 1978.

It’s regarded as a low-cost alternative compared to surrounding courses, where

JUNETEENTH, from page 1A Neil Archibald, a Wesley Chapel-based attorney, delivered a reflection speech called “Affirmations to Live By,” about what it’s like to be an African American male in society today. He also encouraged young people to pursue their dreams and never give up on lifelong goals.

Multiple poems were presented throughout the event, too.

Aiyana Gabrielle Williams, 15, delivered “Never Give In” by Greg Thung. Deidre Kelsey-Holley read an original poem, titled “Chosen.”

The family friendly event also included all sorts of activities for kids, including volleyball, football, Connect 4, Jenga, corn hole, checkers, hula hoop and bounce house.

The recent deaths of Black individuals by police officers, including George Floyd, the Black Lives Matter movement and street protests brought greater attention to Juneteenth celebrations over the past couple years.

The background and history of Juneteenth is enlightening.

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 slow-

TAX, from page 1A “They, in fact, say to people, ‘Hey look, if you need something done right now, go up to Pasco.’”

The Pasco Tax Collector is open all five days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., while 4 p.m. onward is reserved for Pasco residents only.

Pasco residents also can get service on Saturdays, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, at the branches at Gulf Harbors and near Wesley Chapel.

“We wanted to make sure that Pasco residents have a day to themselves and that’s what happens on Saturday, and I will tell you that Pasco residents love it,” Fasano said.

He added:“I’ve got to make certain that we take care of our Pasco residents.They’re the ones that pay our salary, my salary, and the rest of our employees.”

The Pasco Tax Collector is mandated for a number of responsibilities, including providing driver licenses, auto registrations, property taxes, hunting and fishing permits, concealed weapons permits, birth certificates, fingerprints, vehicle identification checks, business receipt taxes and other services.

Fasano said the agency recently has witnessed an “an enormous amount” of title transfer on cars and boats, speculating it could be a result of stimulus dollars and returns on income taxes coming through.

The Gulf Harbors office recently handled over 800 boat titles in just one business day, he said.

“My staff tell me, after seeing all this title work on boats, they wonder if there’s boats out there to buy anymore, you know,” Fasano quipped.

Issuing concealed weapons permits also is bourgeoning, with Fasano pointing out the county leads in the state in terms of providing or renewing such permits:“It’s way ahead of every other county,” he said.

He then joked, “I think our office has armed everyone in Pasco.”

PRIORITIZING TAX COLLECTOR EMPLOYEES

One of Fasano’s more notable undertakings has been increasing wages and promotional opportunities for its some 200plus employees at the tax collector’s office.

snowbirds, seniors and others flock to during the year.

It’s also been described as veteran-friendly, accommodating to beginners, slower players and individuals with physical disabilities.

Course management staff have stated the facility can average upwards of 1,500 players per week and some 6,000 rounds per month, during the busy winter season between October through February.

The course’s future has been a hot topic over the last several council meetings, given the guard’s armory situation and questions surrounding the golf facility’s upkeep and overall value to the community.

Even with Poe’s well-received revelation, several town residents still felt the need to stress the importance of the outdoor recreational staple.

Tom Darby, who lives in Tropical Acre Estates, said the airport golf course is “one of the best courses for senior citizens,” given its shorter yardage and lack of hills compared to other nearby offerings.

Darby also suggested if the golf facility was to shut down to make way for an armory — “the worst-case scenario,” he said — the city should develop another municipal course somewhere else in town to accommodate an area “full of senior citizens.”

Meanwhile, Zephyrhills resident Valerie Snell questioned why city administration would bring the golf course issue to the fore during a time many snowbirds who play the course have already left the area to spend summer up north.

Snell observed, “The population of this city drops by 75% in the spring, because of all the snowbirds that go back home, and I know that there are a lot of people that use

that course, and before any decisions are made, I would hope that you would let them be heard, also.”

Regarding this statement, the city manager acknowledged wintertime would’ve created “perfect timing” for snowbird residents being in town to comment in person.

However, state appropriations being at stake is “why the conversation started now” compared to delaying the task for several months, Poe responded.

“It wasn’t to eliminate or prohibit citizens from coming in and speaking, it’s just the circumstances dictated the timing of it,” he said.

“Unfortunately, circumstances sometimes dictate when we have to make decisions and when we have to have the meetings, and this is one of those times, where conversations have to take place now and can’t wait until the wintertime, so that’s the reasons why the conversations started a few weeks ago.”

Snell then asked if these part-time Zephyrhills residents, among others, could send letters of support for the golf course.

In response, Poe encouraged the community involvement on all fronts: “That’s perfectly acceptable, to have them send letters of support. I’ve received a couple in the last couple weeks, so if there’s individuals that want to send letters of support, that’s perfectly fine, and those can be entered into the record, just the same as you are here today.”

Toward the end of the meeting, the course’s pro shop manager Craig Sexton submitted a stack of hard-copy petitions from local golfers pleading the council to keep the facility in play.

He also made some brief comments addressing council members: “I’d just like to

leave (these petitions) with you, and I’d just like to simply say,‘Thank you.’ It takes a lot of stress off us.”

The municipal course has at least one ardent legislative champion in Councilman Charles Proctor.

He made it clear he would not support any development project that would jeopardize the links — a position which drew rounds of applause from those seated in attendance.

“I would just like to let the people know that are involved with the golf course that I would never vote to take away your golf course,” Proctor said.

“I know you all enjoy it, you get a lot of use out of it, so I can’t speak for the rest (of the council), but I would never vote to take away your golf course. It’s been a part of Zephyrhills for a long time, and I wouldn’t even attempt to try to take it away.

“Nothing is ever in stone in life, we all know that, but I believe our city manager and our city employees are working hard to make this work for both parties.”

Discussion about the course’s future originally came up during an early May meeting to approve a lease agreement with Under Par Inc., to continue to serve as course management operators.

Poe at the time disclosed how the guard had targeted the golf course property for purchase — likely to be a substantial offer — among other site alternatives and parcels throughout the city, following the wave of expansion funding from the state.

Armed with that information, council members tabled the lease renewal for future discussion, as the city’s present agreement with Under Par doesn’t expire until April 2022.

ly, 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.

Raising awareness of the importance of Juneteenth was among Union Park event organizers goals.

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

Uplifting and providing outreach to area youth likewise was imperative during the Juneteenth celebration, Akers-Atkins said.

Several kids were incorporated into the celebration, including a step dance performance from Wesley Chapel teenagers Faraasha Bell Fonoto and NaVeah Akers-Atkins.

Derived from African and slave dances, stepping is energetic and expressive, and requires the shoes on the pavement to be the percussion aspects of the dance.

Meanwhile, the celebration’s youngest performer was five-year-old Joilene Jones, who delivered a gymnastics routine for all to see.

“I think as the youth see the community within which they live care about their education, whether they’re in school or out of school, we care enough about them, and we’d like to still encourage them in that and let them see that you don’t just have to learn what they teach you in school,”Akers-Atkins explained.

“Your neighbors, your community, the people around you, we’re all here to help build you up and mold you into this wellrounded individual, seeing and doing and modeling for them, and also including them in these activities and including them in the planning, so I think it’s very important that we do that, and that we continue to push them.

“We hope there’s more kids next year that aren’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone and they’re able to share their artistic talents with their community,”Akers-Atkins said.

Melissa and fellow organizers plan to host a Juneteenth celebration each year at Union Park, with grander visions to someday collaborate on a countywide event incorporating several other neighboring communities — a get-together that could be held at Wesley Chapel District Park.

Meanwhile, they also plan to host other cultural events through the year at Union Park, including celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.

Trevor Roberts, 40, of Wesley Chapel, said he really only learned about Juneteenth eight years ago, while living in Oakland, California. He is happy the day is now wellknown and the history behind the day will now be widely taught to children in school.

Starting salary was around $9 per hour when Fasano first arrived to the constitutional post.

“We had employees who were employed at our tax collector office for over 10 years collecting food stamps. Unacceptable. We changed that immediately,” he said.

Now the starting wage for an entry-level customer service representative is $16 per hour.

“Our employees are making a decent salary where they don’t have to reach out, and probably not need a second job any longer,” he said.

“I’ve had employees come to us and say they are now buying homes,” he added.

Fasano underscored the necessity to increase wages — to keep governmental effectiveness, reduce office turnover and otherwise “to let our employees know that they are important, that they are the key to keeping our county going.”

He observed,“Let’s remember this, we collect the taxes, and we provide those dollars to our board of county commissioners, to our school board, to mosquito control, to water district, to CDDs (community developmental districts), to paying those at the county collecting the street lights services and the road assessments, and the list goes on.

“If we’re not around, nobody can collect those dollars, so we needed to stay open to make certain that people were able to pay their taxes, and we could collect them and turn those dollars over to the taxing entities, and we’ve been successful in doing that.”

Meanwhile, Pasco County Chief Deputy Tax Collector Tim Couet has developed a leadership program where lower-level employees within the organization are identified by branch managers and directors for training for future advancement opportunities.

“We have made it a goal that when a new position of leadership opens up, we do not go outside our offices to hire someone,” Fasano said.

“If I have to go outside to Ohio or New York or wherever to hire somebody for a management position, for a director’s position, or for a supervisory position, I haven’t done my job.

“Two-hundred nine (employees), there has to be someone in there that’s qualified to take that job, and we’ve been successful over the past seven years.We’ve made it our policy that we will hire within.”

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June 30, 2021

11A

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Prep athletes shined during 2021 spring season

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

A

s the COVID-19 pandemic wiped out most, if not all, of last year’s high school spring sports season, these local athletes and teams made up for lost time in 2021.

Here’s a closer look at some of the more notable moments from the recent prep spring sports season within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area — games, events and achievements that couldn’t be celebrated in spring 2020.

COURTESY OF LAND O’ LAKES HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

The Land O’ Lakes varsity girls softball team finished runner-up at the FHSAA Class 5A state championship.

LAND O’ LAKES’ SOFTBALL FINISHES STATE-RUNNER UP

After playing in only 11 games during the 2020 pandemic-shortened season, the Land O’ Lakes High varsity girls softball program made up for lost time this year.

They finished the 2021 season with a 248 mark and earned state runner-up honors after losing 7-6 to Fort Myers High in the Class 5A state championship in Clermont

on May 21.

Their run through the state playoffs was impressive, downing Seminole (8-0 win), River Ridge (3-1 win), Palmetto (6-3 win) and Pace (5-4 win) high schools, up until the loss in the title game.The championship game defeat came in excruciating variety, having led by 3-0 in the top of the first inning, held a 4-3 lead in the fourth and a 6-3 lead in the sixth, until a combination of

walks and errors did them in.

Other area teams should beware in the years to come — most of the Gators top contributors are returning next year and beyond, including freshman ace Mia Fields (1.97 ERA, 67 strikeouts and 12 complete games in 96 innings).

The program, led by head coach Mitch Wilkins, has been a powerhouse for some time, also winning a state title in 2017.

PASCO TENNIS STANDOUT SECURES SECOND STATE TITLE

FILE

Land O’ Lakes High field athlete Issac Tavo won state titles in the discus and shotput events, in the Class 3A championships.

AREA ATHLETES COLLECT STATE TRACK AND FIELD HARDWARE Like all other spring sports during 2020, track and field athletes didn’t get an opportunity to showcase their abilities against Florida’s best as competitions abruptly shut down in mid-March last season amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

But local performers and schools made up for lost time during the 2021 Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) state track and field championships, at the University of North Florida’s Hodges Stadium in Jacksonville.

More than two dozen boy and girl athletes from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area ran, jumped and tossed their way to podium honors, or top-eight finishes, across all classifications at the state meet on May 7 and May 8. (Several others earned top-16 overall finishes in the finals, as well.)

The performances included a handful of individual and relay gold medalists.

Land O’ Lakes senior Isaac Tavo showed his pure strength, taking first-place crowns in both the 3A boys shot put (57-7) and discus (154-0).Tavo bested Tallahassee Rickards sophomore La’Darion Dudley in the shot put (55-1.5) and Milton senior Dominic Lucas in the shot put (151-5), respectively.

Gaither senior Elizabeth Lydon claimed first in the 3A girls pole vault, clearing 119.75, narrowly edging Southwest Ranches Archbishop McCarthy sophomore Sydney Nicholson, who cleared the same height but lost on fewer misses.

Sunlake senior Daniella Vance earned top crown in the 3A girls javelin, tossing 119-6, to beat the event’s second-place finisher, Harmony junior Thora Gaston (117-11).

Local schools that earned points in the state meet for their respective classification included Bishop McLaughlin, Carrollwood Day, Cypress Creek, Gaither, Land O’ Lakes, Steinbrenner, Sunlake, Wesley Chapel, Wharton,Wiregrass Ranch and Zephyrhills.

If not for the coronavirus outbreak last spring, Pasco High varsity boys’ tennis standout Logan Haga very well could’ve been a three-time state champion.

Two will have to do though, when he won the 2021 Florida High School Athletics Association (FHSAA) 3A individual singles state title, downing St. Petersburg High sophomore Peter Keber in straight sets, 6-2, 6-2, at Sanlando Park in Altamonte Springs in late April.

He also defeated Pines Charter’s Sumedh Edavalluri in the finals (6-1, 6-2), Viera’s Leo Da Silva in the semifinals (63, 6-2) and Matanzas’ Ilya Korolev in the quarterfinals (6-0, 3-6, 11-9).

Haga also won the 3A individual singles crown as a sophomore in 2019, Logan Haga when he beat Venice’s Benjamin Zipay in the championship draw.

The local tennis star next will be competing at Division I Jacksonville University, in Alabama.

He’s set to join a diverse Jacksonville roster, with new teammates hailing from California, Japan, Italy, England, Ecuador and Slovenia, among other locales.

Haga is a four-star recruit by Tennis Recruiting Network, ranked as the state’s No. 25 prospect and No. 139 nationally.

He’s certainly left his mark at a program not really known as a tennis powerhouse like Wiregrass Ranch or private sports academy like Saddlebrook Prep. He trains regularly at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellness Center.

STEINBRENNER RUNNER NAMED ACADEMIC ALL-STATE Steinbrenner High School senior distance runner Zachary Harrigan in April was named to the 27th annual Florida Dairy Farmers Academic AllState Team — a recognition program presented by the FHSAA that honors 24 graduating student-athletes (12 boys, 12 girls) who excel in both athletics and academics.

As part of the designation, Harrigan receives a $1,700 scholarship and commemorative medallion.

Harrigan owned a 4.0 GPA and finished top of his class. He lettered in cross-country and track all four years of high school, and was a member of Steinbrenner’s 2019 FHSAA cross-country state championship team. He also

FILE

12A

June 30, 2021

COURTESY OF CYPRESS CREEK HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS

SPRING FOOTBALL RETURNS Last year’s prep spring football season in Florida was over before it ever got started, when the FHSAA then in late April officially announced the cancellation of all affiliated sports for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year.

Normalcy returned in 2021 — with gridiron followers again having the chance to see the development of area players and teams, some with new coaches, transfers and different classifications.

Florida high schools were allowed a maximum of 20 practice sessions from April 26 through May, according to FHSAA guidelines.

The first allowable day for full-contact tackling was May 1. Spring games and jamborees were played throughout late May. The additional practice period provides players an opportunity to have a routine to add strength and conditioning in the weight

was a 2018 state qualifier in track and field.

Off the course and out of the classroom, Harrigan earned more than 225 community service hours working with the Humane Society, Idlewild Baptist Church and Feeding Tampa Bay. He plans on studying pre-medicine at Auburn University in Alabama this fall.

To be eligible for Academic All-State, students must be a graduating senior with a minimum 3.5 unweighted GPA, and must have earned a minimum of two varsity letters in at least two different sports during their junior and senior year.

Just three other Tampa Bay area student-athletes were bestowed the honor — Plant High’s Brooks Bak and Hartley Hill, and Clearwater Central Catholic’s Kasey Singer.

PASCO ALL-STAR GAME BACK ON THE DIAMOND

The fourth annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes Pasco County Senior All-Star Baseball/Softb all Game returned to Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School.

The Cypress Creek High varsity football team looked to take advantage of the return of the spring football practice season.

The annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Pasco County All-Star Baseball/Softball Game brings together the best senior players, from every school, to compete in one last game for bragging rights between the county’s east and west sides.

It returned this year after being canceled in 2020, due to the coronavirus crisis.

Dozens of baseball and softball players were selected for the event, representing the following schools: Academy at the Lakes, Anclote, Bishop

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room, as well as speed, agility, tackling and game strategy drills, under coaches’ supervision.

Schools in Laker/Lutz News coverage area (and their 2020 records): Hillsborough County: Carrollwood Day School Patriots (5-5), Freedom High School Patriots (0-9), Gaither High School Cowboys (11-1), Steinbrenner High School Warriors (4-3) and Wharton High School Wildcats (72) Pasco County: Academy at the Lakes Wildcats (4-2), Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School Hurricanes (4-4), Cypress Creek High School Coyotes (3-7), Land O’ Lakes High School Gators (1-7), Pasco High School Pirates (5-6), Sunlake High School Seahawks (2-6),Wesley Chapel High School Wildcats (5-4),Wiregrass Ranch High School Bulls (4-5), Zephyrhills High School Bulldogs (8-3), Zephyrhills Christian Academy Warriors (8-3)

FILE

Steinbrenner distance runner Zachary Harrigan

McLaughlin, Cypress Creek, Gulf, Fivay, Hudson, Mitchell, Land O’ Lakes, Pasco, River Ridge, Sunlake, Wesley Chapel, Wiregrass Ranch and Zephyrhills.

The May 22 games were played simultaneously on adjacent baseball and softball fields at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, in Spring Hill.

The West All-Stars reigned supreme over the East All-Stars in both contests, winning 10-0 in softball and 11-8 in baseball in extra innings.

While winning was important, to players and coaches alike, the showcase was more about capping four years of high school and relishing the prep ball-

fields one final time with families, friends and teammates, in a relaxed setting.

Rosters were finalized midway through the regular season, where allstar baseball and softball coaches deliberated the best collection of players through a draft format, taking into account offense, defense, and pitching metrics, among other factors.

The all-star event also included an awards dinner banquet the night before, as well as a couple tranquil meetings and practices in the week leading up.

The activities led to lasting memories and positive vibes for all involved.

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

Worth the Trip

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park

Edited by Karen Haymon Long

By Kathy Steele Special to The Laker/Lutz News

M

arjorie Kinnan Rawlings followed an unlikely path from Rochester, New York, to a rustic farmhouse in the woods of Cross Creek in rural central Florida.

She went from writing unpopular Gothic stories to endearing tales of life at the Creek and catapulted to international fame as the author of “The Yearling,” a story of a boy, Jody, and his deer, Flag.The novel won the Pulitzer Prize in 1939 and was made into a movie starring Gregory Peck.

Sight unseen, she and her then-husband, also a writer, took a risk in 1928 on an orange grove and farm with 1,635 fruit-bearing trees and 150 “good” chickens.

There, she found her spiritual home and a sense of belonging.

A sandy path leads to her farmhouse, now the centerpiece of the Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings Historic State Park. Chickens roam the yard, pecking the dirt. Laundry flutters from a clothesline, near a kitchen garden and orange and grapefruit trees.

Guided tours start at a rustic barn.

Otherwise, visitors can roam on their own to see a yellow 1940 Oldsmobile like the one Rawlings drove, or stroll on woodsy trails

JUNE 30, 2021

If you go

Another look at some of our favorite places to visit.

Cross Creek: Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings’ spiritual home

B

COURTESY OF MARJORIE KINNAN RAWLINGS PAPERS, SPECIAL AND AREA STUDIES COLLECTIONS, GEORGE A. SMATHERS LIBRARIES, UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA, GAINESVILLE

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, author of ‘The Yearling,’ is seen here picking Gerbera daisies in her garden at Cross Creek.

looping from farmhouse to tenant quarters.

Visitors sense what Rawlings felt about the place. “It’s what she writes about. It’s peaceful. It’s restorative. It’s Old Florida. It’s essentially the same as when she was here,” says tour guide Rick Mulligan.

Rawlings lived in the house 25 years. She died in 1953 at the age of 57 of an aneurysm. Now, 23,000 faithful visit each year. Some know bits about her life, gleaned from her books and movies. But some come as pilgrims to pay homage to a writer they have loved since childhood, when they first

WHERE: 18700 S. County Road 325, Cross Creek HOURS: Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; guided farmhouse tours from October through July, Thursday through Sunday, except Christmas and Thanksgiving. Make a tour reservation at the barn. Due to Covid-19, at this time tours are limited to two groups of 10 people and masks are required inside the farmhouse. (Check before going to see if that has changed.)

COST: $3 per group in one vehicle; tours, $3 for adults and $2 for children ages 6 to 12. Credit cards are not accepted and no change is given, so be sure to take exact cash.

INFO: Visit FloridaStateParks.org, or call 352-466-3672.

read “The Yearling,” and her other works.

Farmhouse furnishings are hers, and rooms look much like she just left them. So does her front porch, where she wrote on a Remington typewriter at a table with a palm base.

She loved to walk in her groves to watch sunlight streak through the shaded jade leaves.That vision, she wrote,“is the essence of an ancient and secret magic.”

Note: This is a condensed and updated version of a story originally published in The Laker/Lutz News on June 1, 2016.

Paynes Prairie: An awe-inspiring place for nature lovers

By Karen Haymon Long Special to The Laker/Lutz News

T KAREN HAYMON LONG

Everywhere you look along trails in the Green Swamp, you’ll likely see ponds and pools of water, some tea-colored and some brown.

Visit the Green Swamp to glimpse Florida’s ancient past

By Karen Haymon Long Special to The Laker/Lutz News

L

iving on Florida’s overly populated coast, it’s hard to believe that a 37,350-acre wilderness exists an hour inland. Known as the West Tract of the 110,000-acre Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve, this protected land offers glimpses of what Florida used to look like.

This natural treasure is a vital recharge area for the Florida Aquifer and contains the headwaters of four Florida rivers - the Hillsborough,Withlacoochee, Peace and a fraction of the Ocklawaha. It reaches into Pasco, Polk, Lake, Sumter and Hernando counties.

The west tract offers 65 miles of trails for hikers, bikers and horseback riders.Visitors can walk a half-hour from the parking lot on an unpaved road to get to a section of the Florida National Scenic Trail, which traverses through dense woods overshadowed by giant oaks, soaring slash and longleaf pines, and mature magnolias.

Hikers may see deer, hogs, bobcats, turkeys, turtles or gators. Part of the trail is a section of the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, so birds abound. So do cypress domes, grasses, palmettos and cabbage palms, Florida’s state tree.

The trail is easy to follow, thanks to or-

If you go The Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve West Tract WHERE: 13347 Ranch Road (off U.S. 98 Bypass), about 5 miles from downtown Dade City.

HOURS: Sunrise to sunset. Maps are on the above website and at the tract entrance.

COST: Admission is free and trails are open daily, except when hunting is permitted. For hunting dates, see tinyurl.com/y6m2wtsa.

DETAILS: Picnic tables, portable toilets and campsite also are in the West Tract.

Kayakers and boaters can put into the Withlacoochee River down the road from the tract entrance.

INFO: Visit the above website, or call 352-796-7211, ext. 4470.

ange slashes on trees. Just around every turn are ponds or pools of water.

The area’s watery beauty and magnificent oaks make it the perfect escape to “Real Florida.”

Note: This is a condensed and updated version of a story originally published in The Laker/Lutz News on Feb. 20, 2019.

IT DOESN’T MAAT ATTER

o see “Real Florida” at its best, visit Paynes Prairie, stretching 2 miles on both sides of U.S. 441 in Micanopy, a hamlet south of Gainesville.

The 50-square-mile prairie is protected within Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park. Blue skies and billowy clouds arch high over tawny grasses swaying in the breeze. Fish leap from ponds. Shorebirds stand tall in swampy marshes.

The sun rises on one side of the prairie and sets on the other. If you are lucky, you may see migrating sandhill cranes, grazing bison and wild Spanish horses.

The 22,000-acre park offers a world of exploration, whether you hike, fish, birdKAREN HAYMON LONG watch, horseback ride, camp or A palm overlooks Paynes Prairie, formed by the collapse boat. It’s a photographer’s para- of limestone bedrock and the merging of sinkholes. dise, with 300 species of birds, river otters, bobcats, Florida black bears, wild pigs and hundreds of other critters.

If you go Trails wend through forests of palms, Paynes Prairie Preserve giant oaks, pines, magnolias and palmettos State Park bordering the prairie.

WHERE: 100 Savannah Blvd., Micanopy The great naturalist William Bartram, who HOURS: 8 a.m. to sundown daily; Visitor visited in 1774 when it was called the Center open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., daily Alachua Savanna, wrote about seeing those COST: $6 per car with two to eight passame types of trees. He said emerging from sengers; $4 for one passenger, and $2 for the dark forests to the wide open prairie walkers and bikers. made him feel “on the borders of a new INFO: FloridaStateParks.org, or call world! On the first view of such an amazing 352-466-3397. display of the wisdom and power of the supreme author of nature, the mind for a moment seems suspended, and impressed with awe.”

Sink and marshes to an observation platThe best way to see the prairie is to form. Some trails may be partially closed due enter at the park’s main entrance at its to flooding. southern end, where you’ll find the Visitor The prairie is so vast and changing, you’ll Center with exhibits and a video, an obser- likely want to spend a few days here, or plan vation tower, hiking trails, the campground, a return trip. It’s a wondrous place to see picnic area, playground, boat ramp and Lake some of the best views along U.S. 441 in Wauberg.

Florida.

Farther north, off U.S. 441, look for a sign Note: This is a condensed and updated for the 3-mile, roundtrip La Chua Trail, a version of a story that first appeared in boardwalk/grassy trail around the Alachua The Laker/Lutz News on March 24, 2020.

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Forster said it’s been great fun to watch the babies as they were fed every day and to see them grow. The bluebird parents didn’t seem to mind the human interaction, as Forster said she checked the nest most days and it didn’t scare the birds away.

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COURTESY OF THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM

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The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program released five rehabbed sea turtles, including two Kemp’s ridley and three greens, on June 17 in North Ormond Beach. After months of specialized and compassionate care, the release was a celebration for the turtle caretakers, during what has been a record-setting year for stranded sea turtle throughout the United States. All five turtles were treated for cold-stunning, a condition that occurs when cold-blooded animals are exposed to unusually cold water and/or air temperatures for an extended period of time, causing a hypothermic reaction.

PET PAWS HELP KEEP BIRDS COOL

The hottest summer days can leave birds extra warm, too, and Kaytee pet products offers these easy, effective ways to help birds keep cool even when the temperatures rise.

Provide extra water: Giving birds extra water for drinking and bathing is the best way to help them stay cool. Bird baths, including ground level basins, pedestal baths and hanging baths can give the birds different options for accessing water.

Add ice to bird baths: Fill bird baths with cool water and add a chunk of ice.

Freeze water in a plastic dish overnight and add a large block to the bird bath early in the day.As the ice melts, it also will help to inhibit algae growth so the bath stays cleaner.

Provide good quality food: The best summer bird foods include fruit and nut seed blends, mealworms, and black sunflower oil seeds. Seed cakes are another good choice. Large bird feeders will help to ensure birds always have access to convenient meals.

Move bird feeders to shade: Positioning bird feeders in shady spots helps to keep birds cool as they eat. Shade also will keep the seed cooler, slowing any spoilage, and help to block rain that would dampen

seed and could cause mold or mildew.

Hang feeders under mature trees or deep awnings for the best shade.

Minimize pruning: Resist the urge to prune trees and shrubs more than necessary. More of the natural shade can help birds stay cool, but thicker, unpruned plants also will provide more secure nesting areas for summer birds, as well as better shelter from thunderstorms or prowling predators.

Add extra vents to birdhouses: Every birdhouse should have good air circulation to keep brooding birds and young nestlings cool. Add extra vent holes and check that the holes have not become blocked with nesting material or debris.

Positioning vent holes under house eaves will ensure no rain can get in to swamp the nest.

Provide a quiet midday refuge: Temperatures are hottest in the middle of the day and late afternoon, so try to keep the yard quiet and free of pets, children and disruptive activities like lawn mowing or other chores.This will help to provide a peaceful, stress-free sanctuary for the birds when they need to cool off the most.

For more tips on helping to keep birds cool during the summer months, visit Kaytee.com/learn-care/.

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COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY LIBRARIES

The Hugh Embry Library in Dade City will get a new look, with extensive work expected to start soon.

Dade City library closed for remodeling

By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, as of June 26 is closed for remodeling.

The library’s new look will include a complete floor-to-ceiling renovation, with updated technology, new furnishings, highefficiency air conditioning and high-speed internet.

The modernized interior will offer new spaces for adults, teens and kids, meeting spaces, and a central service desk.

The extensive work is expected to begin soon.

To see a rendering of the proposed library updates, visit PascoLibraries.org/hugh-embrylibrary-remodel/.

“Most of the libraries were built in the 1980s, and we’re excited to completely reimagine the library experience for everyone in Pasco County,” said Bob Harrison, libraries program manager, in a news release.

The renovations are part of the General Obligation Bond (GO Bond) Referendum that Pasco County voters passed in November 2018.

The library is expected to reopen in the spring of 2022.

Patrons can continue to check out books and other materials at open library locations throughout the county, including the newly renovated New River and Centennial Park branches.

The South Holiday Library also remains closed for remodeling.

A U N IIQU QU E & PL LEA EAS U R ABL LE E LEAS RAB

Kylo is a handsome, curious boy Kylo is a calm, sweet boy who loves to be petted and doesn't mind being held.

This 2-year-old is affectionate and will give little head butts. Kylo is curious about his surroundings and would love a perch so he can look out the window. This handsome, sleek guy has beautiful black fur and green eyes.

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Let Sunflower brighten your life Sunflower is a stunning girl with white and red fur, multicolored eyes, freckles on her ears and a short tail. This 1-year-old is a perfect medium size, at a little under 45 pounds. Although she is shy at first, she quickly warms up when she realizes someone is a friend. Sunflower can be a little mouthy, which is easy to correct, and she could use a little more experience walking on a leash. Sunflower will require a home with no other dogs. She loves sitting next to her person, getting belly rubs and rolling around in the yard.

If you would like to adopt Kylo or Sunflower, 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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Check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LakerLutzNews You’ll find stories, things to do, specials, community photos and more.

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS WORD SEARCH & SUDOKU SEE SOLUTIONS, PAGE 11B

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To solve a SUDOKU, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

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

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June 30, 2021

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EYESIGHT PROGRAM

The Zephyrhills Lion’s Club will host its monthly eyesight program on the first Thursday of every month, from 9 a.m. to noon, at 5827 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills.

Participants should bring government ID, social security card, bills, proof of income, proof of government assistance, and insurance information.

The program is open to the public, and to all ages.

For information, call 813-395-5996.

WELLNESS LECTURE

WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center will present “Flexercising” with Dr. Maria ScunzianoSingh on July 1 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the AuratoriOM, 4242 Lake in the Wood Drive in Spring Hill.

This is a free wellness lecture to discuss core strength as a critical element for better health.

For information and to register, call 352600-4242, or visit WellComeOMCenter.com.

GULFSIDE HOSPICE CRAFTS

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The Gulfside Hospice volunteer team is offering a virtual crafting session on July 21 at 11 a.m., via Zoom.

Register online by July 7 to receive a suncatcher kit in the mail, then tune into the video call and complete your craft from home.

Participants will then send the completed project back to the Gulfside Hospice team, to be distributed to hospice patients.

“It’s an easy way for people to make something special for our patients, and it brings them such joy to receive these gifts,” said Emilia Peguero, patient care volunteer manager for Gulfside, in a news release.

Another craft session is planned for Aug. 18, to make a paper poppy flower.

For information or to register for either session, visit bit.ly/Sun-Catcher-DIY--July, or contact Peguero at 727-845-5707 or Emilia.peguero@gulfside.org.

COVID-19 VACCINES

Goodwill stores in Hillsborough County will offer COVID-19 vaccinations, available without an appointment, while supplies last, in July.

• July 7, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: 1407 U.S. 301,Tampa • July 7, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.: 1106 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon • July 8, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: 4102 W. Hillsborough Ave.,Tampa • July 13, 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.: 10739 Big Bend Road, Riverview • July 13, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.: 3050 College Ave., East, Ruskin Vaccinations will be provided at no cost to those receiving them.

Customers with health insurance must bring their insurance card to the scheduled appointment.

Medicare members should bring their red, white and blue Medicare Part B card.

Customers without health insurance will need to provide their driver’s license or Social Security number.

For information, call 727-317-4220.

COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO

A comforting donation

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, under the direction of chair Linda Mitchell, have been busily knitting baby caps and blankets for the March of Dimes program, in support of the 2021 Baby Blanket Challenge for military new moms and their newborns. The women already have sent their first shipment and will continue knitting hundreds more items between now and the December program deadline. Barbara Booth, left, and Linda Mitchell showcase some of the handknitted baby items. For information about the woman’s club, visit LutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or visit its Facebook page.

MEDICARE BASICS

The Florida Department of Elder Affairs’ SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is available to provide free, unbiased information and assistance to Florida Medicare beneficiaries to evaluate their health care options.

The SHINE program is operated by the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas County, which will offer a Medicare Basics presentation on July 8 at 10 a.m., at Meals On Wheels, 38122 15th St., in Zephyrhills.

The topics will include Medicare supplement insurance, Medicare Advantage plans, and financial assistance programs.

To reserve a seat, call 727-217-2111.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL HEALTH

The Tampa Family Health Centers (TFHC) will host several Back-to-School events in Tampa, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., that include immunizations, physicals, and COVID-19 vaccines.

• July 24:TFHC’s new location, at 1212 E. Bearss Ave.,Tampa • July 31:TFHC – Sheldon, 5611 Sheldon Road; and TFHC – Hillsborough, 12085 W. Hillsborough Ave. • Aug. 7:TFHC – Osborne, 4620 N. 22nd St.; TFHC – North Tampa, 1502 E. Fowler Ave. • Aug. 14: TFHC – Dale Mabry, 7814 N. Dale Mabry Highway To schedule an appointment, call 813397-5300.

SIGN UP NOW

The Tampa Walk to End Alzheimer’s, presented by Old Republic Title, is scheduled for Nov. 13, at Raymond James Stadium, 4201 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.

The walk is the largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research.

Participants of all ages and abilities can join in.

Registration is free at Act.alz.org/tampa.

For event details, contact Steve Manuel at 813-230-1210 or stmanuel@alz.org.

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June 30, 2021

2021_0630GO_BS-FP_TPA_ID5604

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Wesley Chapel 813-4066-5029 Zephyrhills 813-782-88219 Carrollwood 813-968--4497 Westchase 813-926-44009

Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com

BACK-TO-SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

EASY MAINTENANCE AT THE

LIFT OF A SWITCH.

Pasco County Property Appraiser Mike Wells, and entrepreneur and philanthropist Jacques Hakim have partnered with the Pasco Sheriff’s Charities and the YMCA of the Suncoast James P. Gills Family Branch to launch “Step up for Pasco Students,” a backto-school fundraiser, for students in Pasco County schools.

Every $10 donated can buy a new pair of quality shoes for a child in need.

The goal is to collect 5,000 pairs by July 18.

Sponsorship levels also are available.

To donate, please visit either bit.ly/PascoSheriffCharities or YMCASuncoast.org/stepup.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

Norwich University, Northfield,Vermont, has announced that Molly Grace Flanagan, of Lutz, and Julliet Abel Muriel, of Spring Hill, have been named to the spring Dean’s List.

Muriel also received a Bachelor of Arts cum laude in criminal justice.

VETERAN STUDIES DEGREE

Saint Leo University has created the first undergraduate degree devoted to veteran studies, according to a news release.A Saint Leo minor also is available in the emerging field.

The veteran studies major was developed to allow students the opportunity to study the distinctive lives and cultures formed by military service and by retirement from service — a part of American culture that often is not understood, except in shallow or stereotypic ways.

The major and the minor are intended to remedy that deficit.

The programs are open to both studentveterans and students who are not veterans.

Admissions and enrollment inquiries can be made by calling 877-622-2009, or by emailing admissions@saintleo.edu.

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p m a C r e m Sum Open Now Public to the

Getting at least some advanced training or education after high school can lead to a future with more opportunities and higher expected income.

Data from the Census Bureau’s 2020 American Community Survey shows that U.S. high school graduates aged 25 and

older reported a median income of $31,956 per year, according to a Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) news release. (A median means that half of the people who responded made more than that amount, while half made less.)

Students who had some post-high school education made over $5,000 more per year, while those with two-year degrees made over $7,000 more each year.

The unemployment rates for high school graduates and those with some college or technical training didn’t differ much, 4.8% versus 4.9%.The jobless rate for people with a two-year degree was much lower at 3.3%.

The KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency that helps to improve students’ access to college.

It provides information about financial aid and financial literacy, at no cost to students and parents.

For more about the agency’s services, visit KHEAA.com.

FREE VACCINATIONS

The Florida Department of Health – Pasco County is teaming up with Pasco County Schools and Health Hero to offer free COVID-19 vaccinations to Pasco County students age 12 and older.

The free vaccinations also will be made available to children’s eligible family members.

Students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian to receive the vaccine.

The Pfizer vaccine will be distributed at several school locations around the county.

Appointments are required to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.

July 12: • J.W. Mitchell High School, 2323 Little Road,Trinity - 8 a.m. to noon, in the cafeteria. Enter the school from Photonics Drive and park in the first parking lot on the right.

July 13: • Sunlake High School, 3023 Sunlake Blvd., Land O’ Lakes – 8 a.m. to noon. Park in the student parking area.

July 14: • Pasco High School, 36850 State Road 52, Dade City – 8 a.m. to noon. From State Road 52, pull in after the tennis courts and park in the staff or gym parking lot.

• Wiregrass Ranch High School, 2909 Mansfield Blvd.,Wesley Chapel – 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Park in the faculty parking lot and take the sidewalk between Building 300 and the main office.

Parents are encouraged to fill out the online registration available from the school district website (Pasco.k12.fl.us), and select from the available dates, times and locations.

STUDENTS SHINE IN WORLD COMPETITION

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The fifth-grade Odyssey of the Mind (OM) team from Connerton Elementary School in Land O’ Lakes won third place in its division at the OM World Finals Competition in Orlando. This was the first team in Pasco County to ever place in the top three at the World competition, according to an email from coach Allison Marks.

Marks, parent of two girls COURTESY OF ALLISON MARKS on the team, and Patricia Back row, from left: Karynn Edouard, coach Patricia Sherburne, second-grade OM mascot Omer, Abbie Sherburne, Mira Marks, teacher, coached the students. Sherburne, coach Allison Marks, Adalyn Resch and Isabella Vizcaino.

The fifth-graders created a Front row: Mackenzie Sherburne, Mariah Rojas and town called Choco Ville, a Mackenna Marks. chocolate-themed town with chocolate-themed characters, in which a villain (Vanillian) tried to de- and ice cream containers — all of which stroy the town with a ‘vanillacane’ (vanilla were made to look like various candy hurricane).The town’s superhero, Daffy discs, ice cream cone shapes and more.

Taffy, saved the day, and helped to unite The community was very supportive the cocoa beans and vanilla beans. and cheered the girls on, made donations, The set for Choco Ville was construct- and encouraged and prayed for them ed of cardboard boxes, paint, shopping along the way. bags, candy wrappers, paper towel tubes, The team’s trophy will be placed on cotton balls, coffee filters, painted paper display in the Connerton Elementary ofplates, tootsie roll wrappers, bubble wrap fice.

to get your tickets now for the 2021-2022 year.

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June 30, 2021

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Dia abetic Retinopathy: Little Changes Can Make a Big Difference

D

o ’t let diabetes steal your sight. on If you’re one of the millions of Americans livin ng with diabetes, you already know how important it is to schedule regular docctors’ exams and d lab work. Y Yo ou may nott realize how imp portant it is to get regular eye exams aas well.

“Diabetic Diabeticc retinopathy aff af f fec f ts 7.

7. 7 million Americanss,, and that number is pro ojjected to increase to more than 14 .6 million people by 2030.”

Diabetic retinopath hy (DR) is the most com mmon fo form of diiabetic eye disease and d is the leading ccause of blindness in adults a age 20 –74 4. DR occurs when diab betes damages b blood vessels in the retina. According to the National Eye Insttitute, diabetic reetinopathy aff ffeects 7.7 million Americaans, and that number i projected to increease to more than is 14.6 million peoplee by 2030. “ There are no symp ptoms until it’’ss too late,” warns Millennium Physician Group Family Physician Neektarios Demetriou, D.O. “It’s extremely important to start prevention ti early ly,, an nd a comprehensive dilated eye exam is the only way to diagnose the condiition and prevent vision deterioration n.”

Dr. Demetriou says managing your diabetes is the bestt way to lower your risk ffo or diabetic retinopathy. That means keeping your blood d sugar levels in check, getting regu ular physical activityy,,

eating healthy and carefully ffo ollowing your doctor’s instructions ffo or your insulin or other diabetes medications.

“Little changes can make a big diff ffeerence,” says Dr. Demetriou. “We’ve actually looked at the hemoglobin A1C, and ffo ound that just a one percent decrease in your A1C decreases the incidence of diabetic retinopathy by 15 to 35 percent.”

Knowing when to get your diabetic eye exam is also important. Dr. Demetriou says people with TTyype 1 diabetes should start getting regular diabetic eye exams within about 5 years of diagnosis. If you have TTyype 2 diabetes, it’s recommended you get your first eye exam at the time of diagnosis. He adds that the best time to get your exam is when your sugars are well controlled. “Y Yo ou can’t use the argument that your vision is fine,” warns Dr. Demetriou, “because you won’t know you’re developing diabetic retinopathy until it’’ss too late.”

Many people with diabetes needlessly lose their vision from DR because they are not diagnosed and treated in time. The condition may not have any symptoms at first, but finding it early could save your vision.

Nektarios Demetriou, D.O. 26 649 Windguard Circle, Suite #101, Wesley Chapel, FL 33544 (813) 72 23 -1303 | www.MillenniumPhysician.com

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June 30, 2021

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NATURE NOTES

Dispelling common garden myths

By Nicole Pinson Special to The Laker/Lutz News

One of the best things about gardening is the opportunity it presents to learn new things.

We gain garden wisdom through trial and error, experimenting with plants and techniques, and solving problems.

Each of us has our way of gardening.

But some anecdotal advice is not the best approach to keep plants healthy.

Here are some common garden myths and why we should avoid them.

MYTH NO. 1 – ADD LIME WHEN PLANTING VEGETABLES.

Many Florida soils are naturally acidic – although soils can be alkaline with a high pH. Soil pH may be high in some compost blends and fill material. Well or irrigation water also can have a high pH. It’s important to know the pH because plants grow best within a pH of 5.5 – 7.0. It’s within this range that most nutrients are available to plants.

A better approach: Instead of adding lime before planting vegetables, get the soil pH tested from a Florida lab.

Lime increases soil pH, and it is very difficult to reverse the effects of over-liming.

Don’t add lime without a soil test. If your soil comes back high in pH, other options include: Choose a different type of soil (for example, bagged vs. bulk), plant in another location that has a preferred pH, use raised beds, or select plants that will tolerate the current soil pH.

the recipes lack information about application rates, targeted pests, and other considerations, such as not applying to stressed plants or when temperatures exceed 90° F. A better approach: Instead of using homemade dish soap recipes for pest control, use labeled insecticidal soaps. These products are affordable – like the homemade recipes – and available at garden centers and landscape supply companies.

The label explains application rates and they are generally safe for use on plants, when used according to the label.

Insecticidal soaps – not dish soaps – are effective on a range of pests with soft bodies.

These pests include aphids, mealybugs, scales, spider mites, thrips and whiteflies.

Read and share the above-referenced publication for more information.

MYTH NO. 3 – PLANT TOMATOES IN THE SUMMER.

Our hot summers are not the best time to plant tomatoes. Cooler months are better for Florida tomatoes.

A better approach: Plant tomatoes in Central Florida from January through February and then again from August through September. Want to learn the best time to plant other vegetables in Florida?

Use the UF/IFAS Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide,Table 1, for a list of plant-

MYTH NO. 2 – MAKE HOMEMADE PEST CONTROL WITH DISH SOAP.

There are many homemade recipes available online and through word-of-mouth.

Dish soap is commonly touted as an ingredient for inexpensive, home remedies.

However, most dish soaps are not registered or labeled as insecticides. Dr.Adam Dale and Matthew Borden, UF/IFAS, have a helpful publication called Managing Plant Pests with Soaps. In this publication, they explain that “all soaps are not the same” and dish soaps are “not an organic alternative to pesticides.”

Dish soaps are often powerful detergents used for cleaning and degreasing.These detergents are not intended for use on plants or for pest control. Dish soaps can damage plants and do not discriminate between beneficial insects and pest insects. Some of

ing times.

MYTH NO. 4 – PAINT TREE WOUNDS.

In the past, it was standard practice to paint tree wounds or freshly cut surfaces.

The idea was that by painting the wounds, the tree would be protected from cracking and wood-rotting organisms. However, tree studies have shown that wound dressings do not prevent decay. The painted surface may still crack when exposed to the sun, and moisture can build up between the wood and the wound covering.Trees with painted wounds may even invite wood-rotting pests compared to trees without painted wounds.

A better approach: Leave the cut surface alone. There is no need to apply paints, wound dressings, or chemical formulations to the surface of the cut because they don’t prevent decay.

MYTH NO. 5 – HURRICANE PRUNE PALMS.

In general, palms rarely need pruning.

The idea of hurricane pruning is to remove most of the fronds to make the palm more resistant to wind damage. However, palm observations have shown the opposite is true!

Many hurricane-pruned palms fared much worse after hurricanes – they were weaker and suffered more damage – than palms that had not been hurricane-pruned.

Additionally, over-pruning may attract pests, such as palmetto weevils.Too much pruning can make nutrient deficiencies worse. Overpruning may stress the palm, making it less able to withstand disease.

A better approach: Take good care of your palms by not over-pruning them. Only prune dead or dangerous fronds. Don’t “hurricane” prune or trim them into pineapple shapes.

MYTH NO. 6 – USE EPSOM SALTS ON PALMS.

Keep palms healthy: Use recommended fertilizers and don’t over-prune.

Epsom salts have been recommended as an inexpensive palm fertilizer. However, the nutrients contained in Epsom salts are quick-release, water-soluble magnesium sulfate.And, the use of quick-release fertilizers can harm palms.

A better approach: Research by UF/IFAS indicates slow-release nutrients are better for palms. A good palm fertilizer is the 8N2P2 O5 - 12K2O +4Mg, with micronutrients and prilled kieserite (a less water-soluble

COURTESY OF NICOLE PINSON

Insecticidal soaps, rather than dish soaps, are labeled for use on soft-bodied pests, such as these mealybugs.

form of magnesium sulfate than Epsom salts).This fertilizer also is called the “palm special” fertilizer. Garden centers, local nurseries, and professional landscape supply companies may carry this fertilizer. Check the label to verify that 100% of the N, K and Mg are in a slow-release form. Use the “palm special” fertilizer and not Epsom salts.

To find out more, check these references that were used for this column.

References: Borden, M. A. and A. G. Dale.

(2019). Managing Plant Pests with Soaps.

IFAS Publication Number ENY344.

Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Retrieved from edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/IN/IN124800.pdf.

Broschat,T. (2017). Fertilization of FieldGrown and Landscape Palms in Florida. IFAS Publication Number ENH1009. Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/EP/EP26100.pdf.

Park Brown, S., D. Treadwell, J. M. Stephens, and S. Webb. (2020). Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide. IFAS Publication Number SP 103. Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Retrieved from edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdf/VH/VH02100.pdf.

For additional information, contact pinsonn@hcflgov.net or 813-744-5519, ext.

54145.

Nicole Pinson is the Urban Horticulture Agent in Hillsborough County.

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11B

2021 Land

L erty Libe

SALU UTE UT We’re proud to paint Land O’ Lakes rred with p patriotic bows along g U.S. 41. to cel independence and to honor our militaary who have given so much to protect our f

LAND O’ LIBERTY SPONSO OR

This celebration would not be possible w witho chosen member of the armed forces to h hono enjoy in our great country is made possible

The Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes is proud to o ho the memory of our Land O’ Lakes fallen Marine, 967.

Carl Radtke, who was killed in Vietnam in 19 Our Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes would alsso like to honor Sheriff Chris Nocco and the Pasco County Sheriff Sheriff’ss Office for their dedication a and commitment to “protect and serve”. We tha ank you all. ews is Diane Kortus, publisher of The Laker/Lutz Ne proud to honor her son, Andrew Mathes, a 2 0 alumni of the U.S. Naval Academy who serv v as a captain in the U.S. Marines. f Dr. Susan and Dr. Lou MacManus in memor their father and brother: H. Cameron MacM us u , United States Navy flight instructor, Pensacola WWII and Dr. H. Cameron MacManus, Jr., Un d States Navy Reserve Physician.

Congressman Gus Bilirakis is proud to hono father, Congressman Michael Bilirakis, who in the United States Air Force during the Kor e War and in honor of all the members of the Armed Forces that sacrifice daily for the sak k freedom and in memory y of all those that ga ga their lives to preserve that freedom.

s ved d n of e

GT Sandy and Steve Graves honor in memory m, SGTT Leo Graves, US Air Force, Korea and Vietnam Robert Pye, WWII, Battle of the Bulge and Normandy. They also honor the service of S ve’s brother, Robert Graves, United States Air Forc Vietnam, their brotherr--in law, John Luck, Unit States Navy, Vietnam. They would also like tto honor the memory of friend Bobby Buckle a d his 22 years off service i iin th the U United it d St States t Ai Airfo f r , T Sergeant, Vietnam, Grenada, Fa and d retired Tech Islands and Desert Storm.

Troy Stevenson, Acme on the Go Mobile Me , in memory of his father, Joseph P. Hughes, marr man n in the Vietnam War. Colleen Beaudoin, Pasco County School Bo d Member, is proud to honor her father, Robe er G. Palmer Jr., Palmer, Jr United States Marine Corps, Corps Viet m Conflict, 1960-1964. g County Commissioner Mike Moore in loving memory of his grandfather, Bill Moore, Unite ed States Army, WWII, Bronze Star Medal recipie Steve Va Valeri honors his father, Richard Va Valeri, his service as a United States Navy officer in n World War II. Bruce Shindelman, Wells Fargo Advisors, ho onorr the memory of his father, Edwin L. Shindelm man, who served in Occupied Japan. and Rhonda Buckley, American Home Title of La Lakes, in honor of her father, A.C. Townsend d, United States Navy.

Kurt Conover recognizes the memory of hiss father, Wolfert D. Conover, United States Arm my, WWII and Korea, his brother, Donald E. Con nover, United States Marine Corps, Vietnam, and h his brother, Gerrit W. Conover, United States Nav vy, G War. Commissioner Kathryn Starkey honors her sson--inlaw, Lieutenant Colonel Tino Diaz, currently serving at Fairchild Airforce Base.

Larry Giannone, Christian Brothers Automottive, in h honor off hi his sons: SSgt. t Steven St Gi Giannone-82n 82nd Airborne Division and SPC. David Giannone e-1st Cavalry Division, United States Army.

Dixie Belle Paint Company would like to ho onor the Dixie Belle team members that have se er ved: e Kevin Fulford, United States Navy, 1st Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Endurring Freedom; Dwight Collins United States Air FForce, 1979-1990; Susan Devoe, United States Air FForce, 1st Gulf War; Amber Nichols Nichols, US Army Army, Nove emb ber 2000-November 2003; Blu Glenn, US Navy, O Oct 1999-May 2005.

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June 30, 2021

www.LakerLutzNews.com

nd blue this 4th of July our country’ ys nel and first responders m. ry Club of Land O’’ Lakes

r sponsors, who are also recognizing theirr memorialize. The freedom and liberty we e sacrifice of these e women and men men.

Senator Mike Fasano (Pasco County TTa ax Collector) and Passco TC Gives, Inc. honors all a those brave Men and a Women who have ser ved and are ser ving ou ur countr y with braver y, dedication and se elf-sacrifice.

State Senator Dann ny Burgess and his wife Cour tney would lik ke to honor all the Men and Women of the armed m forces who bravely wear e the uniform. God bless b you and thank you. The T Burgess family also o honors the memor y of Cour tney’s uncle, Thomas T Clem, who was sho ot down and declare ed KIA in Vietnam. His body was er never recovered. Thomas T was a A-6A Intrude Marine pilot.

The Law Offices of Lucas Magazine would like to thank all of our ac ctive militar y, veterans and all our Gold Star Families for their ser vice and sacrifice to our countr y.

Gar y Bradford, Candidate for Pasco County Commissioner, wou uld like to honor his father, Lendall Bradford. who ser ved in the U.S. Air Fo orce during the Korean Conflict.

Elayne and Hal Ba assinger g in honor of the me emor y of Hal’s father, Harold o Bassinger Sr., United Sta ates Navy, WWII and Pear e l Harbor sur vivor and in honor of the memor y of Elayne’ E s father, Rober t Coc ckcroft, United States Air Fo orce, WWII. Lee Meredith, Mere edith Tire and Auto, in mem mor y of his grandfather, Bradley Meredith, who serr ved as a Sergeant in th he United States Army durin ng WWII, in memor y of o his father-in-law, Alber t or of Argenbright, United d States Navy, and in hono his hi uncle, l TTo orrey Ha Hansen, an U United it d St States t Airf Ai force veteran who ser ved in Vietnam.

Chris Poole, Princip pal of PA PACSCON, in memorr y of his father, Edward B. B Poole, Lieutenant JG, Uniited States Navy. Chris would like to honor his goddaughter, Alysssa K. Poole, Petty Officer Second Class, Unite ed States Navy, his nephew, Br yan E. Poole, E-4 Senior Airman, United State es Air Force, and his father-in-law Donald W. Potter, Specialist 3rd Classs, United States Army. Than nk you all for your ser vice.

Kathy Balthazard of o First National Bank of Passco is proud to honor; he er son, Ret. Army Sgt. Alec Schutz, after 13 yea ars of ser vice, her nephew, E4 EOD Specialist Jaso on Stack and her friend Army Ve V eteran Sgt. Richarrd Car twright for 13 years of o ser vice.

John Callender is pr p oud to honor in memor y his father, Frank Callen nder, United States Navy, WWII W and honor the ser vice v of his father’s sons who all ser ved in the U.S. A Army, Al Callender, Steve Callender and Joh hn Callender.

Bob Schleyer hono ors the memor y of his fathe er, D Day+1 with Patton’s John R. Schleyer, WWII, W Third Army, Staff Sergeant, United States Army.

David Cravatta, Wells D e Fargo g Financial Adviso or, h honor s in memor y, David Erenstoft, UH pilot, II C ps, United State Cor es Army. He was killed in a action on March 1970, Quang Duc Province, So outh Vietnam, when his helicopter crashed.

Awarded the Air Medal for distinguished serr vice.

Fran nk Reeves and Terr y Reeves, Primerica, hon nor their nephew, Elijah Morales, ser ving in n the U.S. Army Reserr ves and their grandson, Kaleb eb b Shoemak Sh ker, who h joined j i d the th US Coas C t Guarrd and is curre ently at sea.

Comp plete Spine & Wellness in honor of all Veteran e Patien nts…we appreciate you vice e to this grea at countr y of ours.

W V Cor

oe Justice and his wife Petra memor y their t grandparents: “Biill the Barrber” T. Charnock Jr., tes es Marin nes, Korean War an and . Ris isco, Un nited States Army Ai , World d War II.