The Laker-East Pasco-July 1, 2020

The LAKER

ee r F

EAST PASCO EDITION

LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM

Auto Accident?

Slip and Fall?

FREE CONSULTATION

No Fees Or Costs Unless You Win

Busy hurricane season expected

Emergency officials adjust shelter plans to prevent spread of COVID-19

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

HOLLIDAY KARATINOS

As if COVID-19, an economic meltdown and soaring unemployment aren’t enough — Floridians need to brace for an above-normal hurricane season, according to forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

LAW FIRM, PLLC

J U LY 1 , 2 0 2 0

Just days into the season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, Tropical Storm Cristobal swept into the Gulf Coast, triggering a storm surge of almost 6 feet along parts of the northern Gulf Coast, according to national weather reports. Heavy rain triggered flash flooding as far east as Florida, and as far north as Wisconsin and Minnesota.The storm also spawned tornadoes in Florida and as far north as Illinois.

That was the beginning of an Atlantic hurricane season that experts predict will have above-normal activity. Information released

by NOAA says there’s a 60% chance of an

above-normal season, a 30% chance of a nearnormal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a range of 13 to 19 named storms, with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, six to 10 could become hurricanes, with winds of 74 mph or higher, including three to six hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5), with winds of 111 mph or more.

An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which six become hurriSee HURRICANE, page 9A

HelpingInjuredPeople.com Call Attorney

JIM HOLLIDAY “I Will Aggressively Fight To Protect Your Legal Rights”

813-868-1887 OR

352-597-0009

Carrier Comfort System S REBAATTES UP TO $

2500

HURRY! On all 15 & higher SEER Equipment

COURTESY OF NOAA

Limited Time Offer

Hurricane Irma gave Floridians a taste of Mother Nature’s fury. This year, weather experts are predicting higher-than-normal activity.

Wee Can W Install & Service Youur AC Unit Yo (No Suub-Contractors) Only OOur Employees

Give Us A Call For ALLL Yo Your Air-Conditioning Needs

FREE ESTIMA ATES SAME DAAY – NEXT DAAY – BY APPPOINTMENT FILE

Some of the destruction wrought by Hurricane Irma’s powerful winds.

DISCOUNT AIR-CONDITIONING

352 567 6224 352-567-6224 10651 Hwy 301 S • Dade Citty, FL www.sonnysappliances.net • randym@sonnysdiscouuntappliances.com

Mickens Field improvements underway

We want yoou to join

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Crumbl Cookies is a dessert shop for specialty cookies and Crumbl Cream, a concoction of cookies and ice cream flavors.

Menus rotate weekly to give customers four specialty choices. However, warm milk chocolate chip and chilled sugar cookies are always available, according to the company’s

Construction on a new concession/public restroom building at Mickens Field soon will be underway, with completion targeted for the end of October.

The Dade City Commission awarded the bid and approved contract to Borregard Construction, Inc., for the project, at 14318 Canal St., in Dade City.

The action came during a June 23 virtual meeting by a 4-1 vote, with Commissioner Nicole Deese Newlon casting a dissenting vote.

The city has $150,000 budgeted for the project, funded through the local government infrastructure surtax, also known as Penny for Pasco.

Borregard posted the lowest bid among six proposals received, in the amount of $89,750.

The company’s bid is all-inclusive and in compliance with specifications included in the city’s request for proposal, per a memo from Dade City Manager Leslie Porter.

That was a point of contention at a previous commission meeting on June 9.

City staff initially recommended entering contract negotiations with Ryman Construction of Florida Inc., who generated the highest evaluation score among six proposals and a bid of $113,727.

While the lowest bidder, Borregard’s evaluation score ranked fifth of sixth proposals, as city staff explained the company did not submit all requested information.

But, Commissioner Jim Shive disagreed with staff’s recommendation earlier this month, suggesting the city simply proceed with the lowest bidder, Borregard, a Dade City-based company with a 20-year running relationship with the city.

See RETAIL, page 9A

See MICKENS, page 9A

CL C LUB KATHY STEELE

We have some great prom motional items to share with you — stickers, pens, fishing bobbers, old-ffashioned fans and even handy notebbooks — all you have to do is sign-uup for our readerSHIP d SHIP P club! l b! It’s It’ FREE! FR REE! We'll be sending newsletters to our club members filled with exclusive updates, fun prizes, behind-thescenes footage and so much more.

Sign up at:

tinyurl.com/y74gjrf8

B

INSIDE, PAGE 1B

Aussie Grill, a Bloomin’ Brand restaurant, opened in May with limited dine-in and drive-thru service.

New retail coming soon to Cypress Creek Town Center

By Kathy Steele ksteele@lakerlutznews.com

Cypress Creek Town Center is adding new retail to its commercial roster.

Though COVID-19 hit a pause button for the Pasco County community, construction workers are still building out new space for shops, restaurants and offices at the town center. Located across from Tampa Premium Outlets on State Road 56, the outdoor mall is at the epicenter of new development in the Wesley Chapel and Lutz areas of the county.

Anticipated tenants in a new strip center along Sierra Center Boulevard include Crumbl Cookies, Zukku Sushi, Charles Schwab, and IVX Health, according to county records.

Construction is underway on a stand-alone La-Z-Boy. European Wax Center, and Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming already are open.

Two previously announced restaurants, Bonefish Grill and Carrabba’s Italian Grill, will have delayed openings, due to “construction timelines,” according to an email

from Bloomin’ Brands, which owns the restaurants.

One other Bloomin’ Brand restaurant, Aussie Grill, opened in May, but is following guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Outback Steakhouse-inspired eatery accommodates some seating with social distancing, drivethru, and Uber Eats and DoorDash delivery services.

Aussie Grill, near the town center entrance at Grand Cypress Drive, is the first stand-alone restaurant for the brand in Lutz.

The three Bloomin’ Brands’ restaurants eventually will be clustered together with a shared parking lot along Sierra Center.

TENANT DETAILS:

Sheriff named to Homeland Security advisory role

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco has added another leadership responsibility to his plate —an advisory role with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

The Pasco Sheriff is one of seven new members named to the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC) by acting secretary Chad Wolf. The announcement came from the federal agency last month.

The HSAC is a Department of Homeland Security federal advisory committee that provides the secretary with independent, informed recommendations, and advice on a variety of homeland security issues. It’s comprised of national policy makers, representatives from state, local, and tribal governments, emergency, and first responder communities, academia, and the private sector.The 35-member council is chaired by former CIA and FBI Director Judge William Webster.

With the appointment, Nocco becomes the only elected official from Florida to serve on the council.

In an interview with The Laker/Lutz News, Nocco called the selection “a humbling honor,” that will give the area “a seat at the table” when it comes to providing and receiving input on homeland security-related matters — such as a hurricane, cyberattack, power grid shutdown and so on.

“For the whole Tampa Bay region and

FILE

Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco was recently appointed to the Homeland Security Advisory Council. The role provides the acting secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security with independent, informed recommendations, and advice on a variety of homeland security issues.

the state of Florida, I’m very fortunate to be in this position to help out and have our voices heard,” said Nocco, noting the role goes beyond law enforcement issues.“With Homeland Security, it is a very large and very broad organization. When you dig

down into it, you realize, from transportation, to communications, to energy, this is a very large organization.”

Nocco added it’s likewise beneficial to now have a direct line to “the highest levels” of Homeland Security if a crisis arises regionally or statewide.“It’s not like I call the secretary of Homeland Security every night, but at the same time, there is that openness of if I need to get a message across, we’re able to connect through staff to the secretary very quickly,” he said.

In addition to participating in full HSAC committee meetings, Nocco is serving on an HSAC subcommittee that focuses on countering violent extremism groups, particularly in exposure to American youth. Some examples include white supremacy groups, terrorist organizations, cults “or any other ideology that promotes hate and disconnect,” said Nocco.

The subcommittee, meeting roughly every two or three weeks, is “basically going all the way upstream to prevent these kids form getting involved in these groups,” Nocco said.

One way to do that, the sheriff said, is ensuring parents and guardians warn their children about what is on the Internet and on social media. He indicated the issue is more important now, as kids are out of school for the summer and possibly stuck at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also, Nocco acknowledged the recent HSAC appointment ties in well with forth-

coming developments at the forensics research and training center project in Land O’ Lakes known as FIRST, Florida’s Forensic Institute for Research, Security and Tactics.

With that project, the sheriff explained there’s an opportunity for more partnerships with Homeland Security in the way of innovation, technology and instructional programs.“I think it’s just going to strengthen what we’re doing here in Pasco County,” he said.

Nocco has been Pasco Sheriff since 2011, when he was appointed by thenFlorida Gov. Rick Scott. Nocco was elected to the position in 2012 and re-elected in 2016. He just won another term.

Previously, he served with the Philadelphia Public School Police, the Fairfax County Police Department, and the Broward County Sheriff’s Office.

Additionally, he was a first responder to the attacks of 9/11 and the Washington D.C. sniper incident.

Other HSAC appointed members include James Carafano, vice president of The Heritage Foundation’s Kathryn and Shelby Cullom Davis Institute for National Security and Foreign Policy; James Fuller, executive vice president of Hill + Knowlton Strategies; Hans Miller, CEO and co-founder of Airside; Cynthia Renaud, chief of police for the city of Santa Monica; Mark Weatherford, founding partner at Aspen Chartered; and Brian White, global security practice head for DBO Partners.

• LAWN & ORNAMENTTA TAL PEST CONTROL • TERMITE T CONTROL • HOUSEHOLD PESTT CONTROL • AQU A ATTIC WEED W CONTROL

ACCOUNTANT BUSINESS / INDIVIDUAL Are you having problems with the IRS?

352-567 7-2395

• Tax Planning Preparation • Tax Resolution

• Start Up Counseling • Bookkeeping

Give me a call.

Nils R. Lenz, MBA

813-782-9491

ENROLLED AGENT • QUALIFIED TO PRACTICE BEFORE THE IRS

B&N L ENZ ENTERPRISES 39104 3rd Avenue, Zephyrhills, FL 33542 Find us on facebook www.facebook.com/lakerlutznews

Follow @LakerLutzNews on Twitter www.twitter.com/lakerlutznews

W WE E A ARE R E OPEN! O P E N !

HOURS H O U R S M M-F F 9 9-5 5 S SAT AT A T 9-4 9 4 PHONE/EMAIL P HONE/EMAIL ORDERS ORDERS A AVAILABLE: VAILABLE: 352-567-6224 352-567-6224 • SONAPPL@TAMPABAY.RR.COM SONAPPL@TAMPABAY.RR.COM

APPPLIANCCES IN-SSTOCK

READ DYY NOW FOR PICKUP OR DELIVER RYY! TAKE IT HOME TTO TA ODA AYY!

USA MADE 7.4 CU.FT.. FRONT LOAD ELECTRIC DR RYYER #WED5620HW MAP $899 $ • Intuitive Controls • Wrinkle Shield™ Pluus Option with Steam

4.5 CU.FT. CLOSET-DEPTH FRONT LOAD WASHER #WFW5620HW MAP $899 • Load & Go™ Dispenser • Intuitive Controls • Steam Clean Option

22 Cu. C Ft. Bottoom- Mount Refriiggeerator • Full-W Width Cool Zone Drraawer

SANITIZE CYYC CLE

69999

$

EACH

SAAVVE $400 ON THE PPAAIR

of the Home Showroom at Sonny’s.

ALL WHIRLPOOL W OVVER THE O RANGE MICR M OWAAVVES ON SALE!

11199

$

Slide-Out Shelves for Easy Access

99 24” DISHWASHER D S

COUNTER DEP PTH

Startingg at

29999

$

Over 25 kitchen displays with custom appliance pack packages. kages.

7.5 WASHER • Steam • Self Clean • Smart Smart Care

7.4 CU.FT. FRONT LOAD ELECTRIC DR RYYER #DVE50R5400W MAP $899 • Sensor Dry • 5 Te Temperature Levels • 12 Preset Drying Cycles

4.5 DR RYER • Steam • Sensor Dry • Smart Smart Care

5 CU.FT. TOP LO OA AD WASHER #WA50R55400AW MAP $899 • 12 Wa Wassh Cycles S Full Load in 36 min • Super Speed.

• Active W WaaterJet • EZ Acccess Tu Tub

SANITIZE CYYC CLE

CENTRAL AIR

SALES & SERVICE

SANITIZE CYYC CLE

64999

$

69999

$

EACH

EACH

SAAVVE $400 ON THE PPAAIR

TOP BRAND DS

SAAVVE $400 ON THE PPAAIR

KITCHEN KITCHE N SUITES

279999

$

& MORE!!

4 - PIECE KITCHEN SUITE

219999

$

SALE E! *See Store for Details s

1147

2A

July 1, 2020

24 cu.ft. Side-By-Side Refrigerator #WRS315SDHM - MAPP $1,499 • Frameless Glass Shelves • Adjustable Gallon Door Bins • Can Caddy

5.3 cu.ft. Freestanding Electric Range with 5 Elements #WFE320MOES- MAP $749 • Frozen Bake™ TeTechnology • FlexHeat™ Dual Radiant Element • Keep Warm Setting

ENERGY STAR® Certified Dishwasher #WDF330PAHS - MAP $579 • 1-Hour Wash Cycle C • Cycle Memory • Soil Sensor

1.7 cu.ft. Microwave Hood Combination #WMH31017HS - MAP $319 • Microwave Presets • Electronic Touch Controls • Dishwasher-Safe Turntable Plate

10651 HWYY.. 3001 SOUTH • DADE CITY • WWW W.SONNYSAPPLIANCES.NET • 352-567-6224 M M-FF 9 AM – 5 PM P • SAATT 9 AM – 4 PM • CLOSED CLOSSED SUNDAAYYS TO BE WITH FFA FAMIL AMILLYY

www.LakerLutzNews.com

IF IT’’S NOT GREEN, IT’SS NOT REAL! We W e Deliver!

D

JUST 30 MINUTES FROM WESLEY CHAPEL AND LAN ND O’’ LAKES APPLIANCES • BEDDING • CENTRAL CENNTRAL AIR

477999

SAVE

4-PIECE CAAST IRON BLACK KITCCHEN SUITE

MATTRESS S

$

$

ON THE SUITE

• 25 cu.. ft. Sidebyy-Side b Refrigerator with Exterior Ice and Wa W ater and Soft MSS25C4MGK MMV4206HK MER8800HK MDB7959SHK Freese Bin • 30-Inch Wide Electric Range with Tr True Convection • 2.0 Cu.. Ft.. OverThe-Ranggee Microwa wa avve with Interior Cooking Rack • TToop Control Powerful

TOP FREEEZER REFR RIGERA

Please see dealer d for details. Photos are for illustration purrposes only. Financing available.

We accept Visa, MC, Discovery, Wells Fargo

COVID-19 prompts local face mask requirements Positive cases in Florida nears 9,000-mark on a single day on June 25

ty and operating guidance for members of the hospitality industry, to ensure the safety of employees and guests.

The FRLA is strongly encouraging all Florida residents and visitors to wear masks in public spaces, including at restaurants and hotels, and to practice social distancing.

“Ensuring employee and guest safety is of the utmost importance,” Carol Dover, the FRLA’s president and CEO said, in a news release.

“All Florida businesses must do everything possible to contribute to the health and safety of our communities.We are strongly urging all Floridians to adhere to statewide Executive Orders, comply with the Department of Business and Professional FILE Regulation (DBPR) and While wearing an N95 mask for her safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, Linda McCabe, of Dade City, conother business regulators, firms the amount of food bags needed for one of the cars that showed up recently for the Pasco County follow CDC (Centers for school district’s free lunch program, at the Pasco High School site.

Disease Control and Prevention) and the Florida work site open to the public, according to or companions.

Department of Health recommendations on the district’s news release.

Florida Surgeon General Scott Rivkees mask-wearing and social distancing.These The county order and school district’s di- also has issued an advisory recommending collective efforts will help ensure the safety rective will remain in place indefinitely and “all individuals in Florida should wear face of all Floridians and our visitors,” Dover said. both are subject to change as circumstances coverings in any setting where social disInformation available on the afternoon of change. tancing is not possible” and discouraging June 26 showed that Florida had a total of These actions follow requirements im- social gatherings of more than 50 people.

122,960 positive cases, including 8,993 on posed by the Emergency Policy Group of The North Tampa Bay Chamber notified June 25.The state recorded 3,336 deaths of Hillsborough County, which voted 5-3 on its members about the requirements for Florida residents and 98 deaths of non-resiJune 22, to require face coverings be worn face coverings, providing links to the vari- dents. by customers and employees in indoor ous government jurisdictions for more Hillsborough County had 8,108 cases, inspaces of businesses, when social distancing information. cluding 7,941 Florida residents and 77 of 6 feet cannot be achieved.

The chamber also offered its members non-Florida residents.

That order is automatically set to expire the opportunity to contact its office to obThe figures for Pasco County stood at within 7 days of its adoption, unless re- tain some free masks, through touchless 1,326 cases, including 1,314 Florida resinewed. pickup.The masks are being made available dents and 12 non-residents.

The median age of those testing positive Tampa Mayor Jane Castor imposed a through the chamber’s partnership with the face covering order on June 19, also requir- Florida Chamber of Commerce and Pasco was 35 statewide, compared to a median age of 31 in Hillsborough County. Pasco ing masks when inside any business within County.

The Florida Restaurant and Lodging County’s median age for those testing posithe city of Tampa, when not maintaining social distancing, excluding family members Association (FRLA) also issued updated safe- tive mirrored the state’s age of 34.

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

As Florida’s positive COVID-19 cases continue to climb, local officials are taking action to require the wearing of face coverings.

The requirements vary by jurisdictions.

Pasco County has joined the list of local governments imposing restrictions in an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19.

Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles issued an executive order on June 23, requiring everyone in Pasco County to use face coverings while indoors at a public business or county government facility.The order took effect immediately, with enforcement beginning on June 25.

There are exceptions to the order, which include children under age 2 and anyone with an existing health condition that would be complicated by wearing a mask.

Pasco County Code Enforcement is enforcing the ordinance, focusing first on education.

UNDER PASCO’S ORDER: • Face coverings should cover nose and mouth.

• All businesses and county government facilities open to the public must comply.

• Businesses must ensure compliance, with those found in violation facing a fine of up to $250.

The county also announced the availability of face masks at several locations.

Those wishing to report a violation should call (727) 847-2411, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pasco County Schools issued a statement in response to the county’s order, noting that while the order doesn’t apply to schools, the school district will require masks or face coverings for employees and visitors.

Masks or face coverings will be required for anyone visiting any district school or

FRESH & DELICIOUS FOOD DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

THA AT T “BARGAIN” BARGAIN HEARING AID NOT WORKING AS PROMISED?

GET THE UBER EATS AND SLICE APPS! KIDS EAT FREE ALL DAY MONDAY

Call THE Hearing Aid Expert today!

Dine in only. One child per adult.

TUESDAY, THURSDAY AND SUNDAY

WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY

MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY

$5.99 $10.95 $8.95 SPAGHETTI OR ZITI with one topping

21501 Village Lakes Center Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639

(813) 949-7484 PizzaVillaLOL.com

LASAGNA GREEK STYLE CHICKEN

$10.95 with salad

* ANY GREEK

$2.00 OFF ENTREE

Baked Chicken, Stuffed Pepper & Tomato, Gyro, Briam, Mousaka, Dolmades, Spanakopita, Souvlaki, Large Greek Salad w/Potato Salad *Cannot be combined with other offers. One coupon per ticket/table. Expires 7/31/20.

D i n e i n - Ta k e O u T - D r i v e T h r u - C aT e r i n g

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS

LUTZ, ODESSA, LAND O’ LAKES, WESLEY CHAPEL, NEW TAMPA, ZEPHYRHILLS, DADE CITY Serving Pasco since 1981 / Serving Lutz since 1964 PUBLISHER & OWNER: DIANE KORTUS, dkortus@lakerlutznews.com EDITORIAL

SALES

DESIGN

B.C. MANION, Editor bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

TERRI WILLIAMSON, Sr. Acct. Mgr. twilliamson@lakerlutznews.com

MATTHEW MISTRETTA, Art Director mmistretta@lakerlutznews.com

KEVIN WEISS, Staff Writer kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

CAROLYN BENNETT, Customer Service cbennett@lakerlutznews.com

STEFANIE BURLINGAME, Graphic Designer sburlingame@lakerlutznews.com

KELLI CARMACK, Marketing Asst. kcarmack@lakerlutznews.com

ACCOUNTING

KATHY STEELE, Staff Writer ssteele@lakerlutznews.com MARY RATHMAN, Editorial Assistant mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

LOCATION: 3632 Land O' Lakes Blvd. Suite 102 • Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639 MAIL: P. O. Box 479 • Lutz, FL 33548 PHONE/FAX: ph: 813.909.2800 • fax: 813.909.2802 IT SUPPORT: STEVE MISTRETTA

MARY EBERHARD meberhard@lakerlutznews.com WEBSITE: www.lakerlutznews.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/lakerlutznews TWITTER: www.twitter.com/lakerlutznews EMAIL: news@lakerlutznews.com • sales@lakerlutznews.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Mail subscriptions are sold to cover postage cost: $40/3 months, $80/6 months, $160/12 months.

DELIVERY PROBLEMS: If you do not receive your paper, or want to stop home delivery, call 813-948-5237. Or go to www.lakerlutznews.com, select Circulation request and complete “Opt Out” form.

ADDITIONAL COPIES: A listing of boxes and business locations is on our home page at www.lakerlutznews.com.

EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS: Suggestions for stories and news coverage are welcome. Please send ideas to news@lakerlutznews.com, or call our newsroom at 813-909-2800.

ADVERTISING ERRORS: Publisher is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the space cost for the first insertion, or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

Advertising and editorial content ©2019 by Manatee Media Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden without prior written permission from the publisher.

Dr. J Foun

1155 YE Y EA E ARS YEARS 20 005 - 20 00220 + 2005 2020 11, ,,000000000ss ooff 1,000s pa ati at tie tie ient ent nts ts se sserved erve er ved patients

JC AUDIOLOGY AUDIOLOG GY Y & HEARING AIDS 1519 Dalee Mabry Hwy., Suite 105, Lutz, FL Locally owned & home grown small business

(813) 949-1331

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

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

813-996-1895

Durojaiyelaw

3632 Land O’Lakes Blvd, #105-7 • Land O’Lakes, FL 34639 WWW.DUROJAIYELAW.COM The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements.

Before you decide, ask us to send you FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.

When the inevitable is near... ...we are here in your time of need.

• CEMETERY • FUNERALL HOME • MAUSOLEUM • O ON-SITE CREMATOR T Y

CALL TO O SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTA C TATION T AN ND TOUR 12609 Memorial Drive, Trinity r y, FL 34655

TRINIT TY 813-9920-4241 MEMORIAL GARDENS

www.Trinit r tyMemorial.com

www.LakerLutzNews.com

July 1, 2020

3A

What’s Happening

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

4TH OF JULY HOEDOWN

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

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

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Atonement Lutheran Church, 29617 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a vacation Bible school,“Heavenly Sprouts Farm: Growing Fruits of the Spirit,” July 6 to July 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for ages 5 to 12.Admission is free. For information and to sign up, call (813) 973-2211, or email office@discoveralc.com.

MAKE A FELT CACTUS

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a curbside pickup craft from July 6 at 10 a.m. to July 11 at 5 p.m., for ages 18 and older.The take-home kit will include the supplies needed to make a cuddly felt cactus, and includes instructions, felt squares, a paper template, stuffing and a ceramic pot. Registration is required to reserve a kit. Register online at PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

MYSTERY MISSION

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will offer Mystery Maker Monday on July 6 at 10 a.m. Stop by and pick up a kit of random supplies and a mission, to use your creativity to build something. Kits will include everything needed, and a mission prompt. For information, call (352) 567-3576.

TINKERING TUESDAY

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a curbside pickup Tinkering Tuesday kit called “Measuring Up!” from July 7 at 10 a.m. to July 11 at 5 p.m. Kits must be reserved ahead of time Reminder: The traditional Independence Day festivities in Lutz, hosted by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, will not be held this year, including the Fourth of July parade and all associated activities.

Virtual summer library programs Pasco County Libraries offers systemwide virtual programs. Tune in every weekday for a new virtual activity video, including comedy store theater shows, crafts, recipes, author interviews, guest performers, games, and more.

These digital services are geared toward kindergarten through seventh grade. Activities are free. No library card is required. All locations are included.

To view the videos, visit PascoLibraries.org/events/supersized-virtual-stories/, and use the password ‘library.’

UPCOMING PAGE TURNER ADVENTURES INCLUDE: • July 6: Show Day, Show Day: The Great Pizza Contest • July 7: Younger Kids’ Craft Day: Pencil-Thin Mustache Craft, Paper Plate Flag Pizzas and No-Bake Fruit Pizza Recipe • July 8: Author Day • July 9: Older Kids’ Craft Day: Granola Pinwheels, Tortilla Pizzas, 7inch Pie in a Glass • July 10: Guest Performer Day with Gayon & Willimour Daniel from Young Chef’s Academy in Coral Spring

and will include a book bundle (if desired).

Kids can learn about measurement through hands-on activities, crafts, recipes and online components.The library’s Facebook page Notes section will offer links for the experiments and activities, as well as online resources.The kits are limited to 30 participants.To register, visit PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

MAKE A PILLOW

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will offer three pillow-making kits. On July 7 at 2 p.m., adults can join in a live virtual event to make a unicorndecorated pillow. On July 8 at 3 p.m., teens can join in to create a pop-tart design pillow without any sewing.And, on July 9 at 3 p.m., tweens (grades four to seven) can learn to make a pop-tart pillow, too.

Kits for all events will be made available.

Register online at PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

DIVORCE SUPPORT

Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching will resume its free Separation & Divorce Support Group through Zoom meetings, starting July 7.

Weekday meetings will take place every Tuesday at 7 p.m. To register, email emergestrongdivorcecoaching@gmail.com, or call (561) 339-3711.

SQUIRE TRAINING

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will host a live virtual event on July 9 at 11 a.m., for squire training. Kids in kindergarten through third grade can join in for a story time with singing and a craft, all about knights. Kits will be made available.To register, visit PascoLibraries.evanced.info/signup/ calendar.

SAFETY TOWN YARD SALE

Safety Town, 15325 Alric Pottberg Blvd., in Spring Hill, will host its annual yard sale July 10, July 11 and July 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come shop an abundance of new and slightly used items.The sale will support the education and safety of children, through Safety Town. For information, call (813) 929-1203.

MONSTER TRUCK RALLY

A Monster Truck & Food Truck Rally Festival is scheduled to take place on July 11 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., at The Grove, on Wesley Grove Boulevard in Wesley Chapel.

There will be a Street Legal Truck Competition and Food Truck Competition; as well as more than 20 food trucks, 100 artisan craft vendors, inflatables, games, family activities, corn hole, a batting cage and live entertainment.There also will be more than $2,500 in prize money. For details and updates, visit WesleyChapelEvents.com.

FARM SHARE

Pasco County Schools, in partnership with Pasco Sheriff’s Office and the Bread of Life Worship Center, will host a Farm Share event on July 15 from 9 a.m. to noon, at Pasco High School, 36850 State Road 52 in Dade City. Food is first-come, first-served.

For questions, call Pasco County Schools at (813) 794-2000 or (352) 524-2000.To learn

more about Farm Share, visit FarmShare.org.

PARKING LOT SOCIAL

“The Parking Lot Social” will take place starting on July 16, and continue July 17, July 18 and July 19, at Raymond James Stadium, 4291 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.This event modernizes the traditional drive-in experience through a supersized, multisensory attraction.There also will be a “Social Kids” event on July 18 and July 19, which will include a Parents vs. Kids theme, and “Midnight Movies” on July 17 and July 18.The Parking Lot Social will include Car-A-Oke, a Headphone Disco DJ Battle, Boom Boom Bingo,Themed Trivia, Parking LOL and Midnight Movies.

Tickets start at $29. For information, tickets and a complete schedule, visit TheParkingLotSocial.com.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH

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

JUNKIN’ IN JULY

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

OPEN TO PUBLIC PLAY 7 DAYS A WEEK! TO BOOK A TEE TIME CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE

813.996.0161 • WWW.THEGROVESGOLF.COM 7924 Melogold Circle | Land O’ Lakes, FL 34637

DRIVING RANGE – PUTTING GREEN – GOLF LESSONS

N NEW EW S SUMMER UMMER RATES TTWILIGHT WILIGHT R ATES

18 HOLES AFTER 3PM . . . . . . . . . . .$15 + TAX 9 HOLES AFTER 5PM . . . . . . . . . . . .$10 + TAX

THE GROVES GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB HAS PUT IN PLACE PREVENTATIVE MEASURES AND IS FOLLOWING RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES ESTABLISHED BY THE CDC, STATE OF FLORIDA, AND USGA. STAY HEALTHY AND HAPPY!

WE ARE OP PEN AS AN ES SSENTIAL BUSINE ESS TO SER RV VE E YOU!

T

F FREE

AC DISSINFECTION & FOGGGING

With $39.95 Tune-up, $190 value

$50 OFF

Must present coupon. Cannot be combined. WATER AT HEAATTER One per visit. Expp. 7/31/20. While supplies last. REPLACEMENT

FREE SERVVICE CALL With Reppair M-F 8AM-8PM we can keep th he exposure risk low.

We promisee to put your wellbeing We first and thank you fo for trusting us. W Wee encourage you to call or email us with an nyy questions or o concerns as we navigate these challlenges togetherr..

Must present coupon.

Cannot be combined.

One per visit.

Exp. 7/31/20.

Must present couupon. Cannot be combined.

One per visit. Exp. 7/31/20.

ESSENTIAL BUSINESS WE’RE OPEN

With kindest re Wi regar r rd ds,

COVID-19

he Cornerstone Pros team cares about your comffo ort,, so we are pleased we can keep our business open as an essential serrvvice to continue to serve you.. For the welffaare of our customers and employees— our fa family, lyy,, we are elevating our protocols fo for saffeety and cleanliness to help prevent the spread of CO OV VID-19.

We’re sharing this inffo We ormation so you can fe feel comffo ortable rellyying on us to protect your home’s indoor air, heating,, cooling,, electrical and plumbing systems while you need them more than ever beffo ore.

The technicians,, installer s and sales support staffff on our crews will be fo following enhanced saffeety procedures and using kits to protect themselves and your fa famillyy while they’re in your home. They are limiting ph hyysical contact to keep you safe, fe, so please do not be off fffeended when they stand fa farrther aw awaayy and don’t shake hands. We ar e limiting person-to-person contact Fortunatellyy, mo contact. most ost of our worrkk is perffo or med outside or in remote areas of your hom me so that, along with our extra saffeetty measures,

Dana Spears, Spears Prresident Cornerstone Pros Air Conditioning,, Plumbing & Electrical Serrvvices

Always Safety First at Corne erstone Prro os

following COVID-19 precautions

8 813-990-0561 www w..C Cor nerstonePros.com m Lic: #CFC1428982 #CAC1816647 #EC0001103 Bonded • Innsured Ang gie’s List Winner 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018 & 2019

4A

July 1, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

Stay safe around water The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report There’s been an uptick in service calls relating to near drownings, according to the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.

To stay safe near water and reduce potential drowning deaths, the Sheriff’s Office offers these suggestions: • Make sure children are supervised at all times while around water. A child can drown within seconds.

• Know your limitations in the water and don't take risks.

• Do not swim alone.

• When boating, be sure there is a life jacket for each person on board and be sure the jackets can be accessed quickly and easily.

• Swim sober.

• Learn first aid and CPR. • Know who to call in an emergency, and be sure you know the address where you are, so you can tell responders.

• Teach children water safety and swimming skills as early as possible.

• Keep access points to pools or other bodies of water secure and locked when not in use.

• Don't use floatation devices as a substitute for supervision.

• Designate a "water watcher" at all times when people are in the water.

• Learn CPR, in case of emergencies.

• Never assume you'll hear when a child is in distress or drowning. Drowning is a silent death.

Museum honors Blue Star program

By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

The Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) has long been a Blue Star Museum, providing free admission for military families.

In April of this year, the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families decided to take a break from the Blue Star Museums free admission program for the summer, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, MOSI has announced that it will continue to honor the Blue Star Museum program, despite its earlier plans.

“In a community like Tampa, where our military has such a positive impact on all of us, we thought it would be the right thing to do as a resource for these families from an education and entertainment point of view,” said Rob Lamke, MOSI’s chief operating officer, in a news release.

The museum will provide free admission to active-duty military personnel and their families, from July 1 through Sept. 7.

Blue Star Museums is an initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in collaboration with Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums nationwide.

For more than 35 years, MOSI has been offering programs to all in the Tampa Bay community that focus on a variety of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

COURTESY OF PATRICIA SERIO

Still helping those in need

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club have continued to donate food, hygiene items, clothing and money to local food banks and pantries since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and area job losses. Patricia Serio drops off bags to the St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry in Land O’ Lakes, an organization that the club has donated to on a weekly basis. For more information on the woman’s club, visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or visit its Facebook page.

read der M MONTH of the

Lillian Cucuzza

Lillian and her husbaand, Dave, have been Florida residents most of their lives. They moved tto Land O’ Lakes from Ft. Lauderdale in 2013.

Lillian and Dave are Regional Vi Vice President business owners with Primerica; their offfice is in the Wisteria Plaza at 6739 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. For the last 35 yeaars, Lillian has been helping thousands of families earn more income, g get properly protected, debt-free and financially independent.

Lillian also is a wildllife and avian photographer/author, offffering her photo art for sale through h HIS Creations LLC, both online and at arts and crafts fairs. Many off her photo artworks are featured at the Out of Our Hands Gallery in Daade City, both in prints and framed. She’s printed two photo books, "Birrds of Florida, A Photo Montage of Marsh, Woodland and Birds of P Prey" and "Let Us Prey - A Photo Collection of God's Provision."

Lillian is gearing up for her soon-to-be-released newly published children's photo book, "JJunior's First Flight Adventure," an exciting, heart-pounding adventurre of a baby bluebird as he flies for the very first time. It will be available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble any day now!

Here’s what she has to say about The Laker/Lutz News: "My husband and I rrace to the driveway every Tu Tuesday to get our Laker/Lutz News! The sttories arre always timely and about appealing local subjects that we ca an't get news on anywherree else! We We love to read the "What's Happeening" section (one of my favorites was right after we moved herree abo out an earthworm seminarr. That's when I knew we had arrived and werre no longer in Ft. Lauderrd dale!) We We especially love Section B wherree wee always look for the wildlife photos and pets of the week! We We also lovve to find coupons to some of our favorite local restaurants in therre. If it werreen't for The Laker/Lutz News, we wouldn't know what wass going on in our communityy. Thank God for The Laker/Lutz News!"

The LAKER/L /L Lutz utz NEEWS WS

reade der #

SHIP P

club u

Sign up for free at:

www w.forms s.gle/7tJj9eYpjM2SKLfP6

ESCAPE E IN AN RV THE SAFES ST WA AY Y TO TRA AV VEL

The most fun and easiest way to social distance.

813-779-1010 • 813-629-3334 8 • 813-629-2000

2019 38ft

2018 33ft Jayco Precept A

Newmar Canyon Star A

2014 39ft

2016 33ft Allegro A

2015 32ft

Coachmen Leprechaun C

2020 34ft

3-slides/generator/2-ACs/ 6-point leveling/ fireplace/loaded MSRP $103,995

3-slides/2-ACs/auto leveling/4door fridge/no carpet/outside entertainment/NEW!!

Was $99,995

3-slides/full paint/auto leveling/2-sofas/washer-dryer prep/4-door fridge Was $95,995

2-slides/auto leveling/fireplace/L-shaped sofa/2ACs/TVs/full paint/king bed Was $110,995

2--slides/satellite/Onan generator/Am Fm CD TV DVD/ sleeps-8 Was $59,995

buunkhouse/sleeps-10/residential fridge/wide bunks/electric jacks-awning MSRP $35,995

Now $66,231

Now $77,819

Now $78,243

N Now $95,612

N Now $45,623

N Now $22,819

34ft

2018 21ft

2018 31ft

2018 28ft Rush Toy H l Hauler

2021 35ft

Wolf Pack Toy H l Hauler

35ft

Jayco EEagle l TT

16ft garage area/sleeps-8/front bedroom/TV/fuel station/CLEAN!!

Was $24,995 $24 995

AC/queen bed/rear bath/3000 lbs/full bathkitchen/ Was $14,995 $14 995

open floor plan/14ft Garage/front queen bed/fuel station/electric beds Was $24,995 $24 995

front queen bed/AC/full kitchenbath/awning/CLEAN!!

Was $21 $21,995 995

1--slide/huge living room/bikecart perfect/queen bedroom/solar package Was $44,995 $44 995

3-sliides/rear living room/ducted ACC/electric jacks-awning/tons of room Was $24,995 $24 995

Now $18,671

Now $9,962

Now $18,919

N Now $16,247

N Now $29,983

N Now $19,233

37ft

2018 34ft

2019 34ft Cougar FW

Wolf Pack Toy Hauler

2021 40ft

2017 41ft

2017 42ft

front kitchen, 2-slides/king bedroom/fireplace/leather sofa+recliner/lots of counter space Was $23,995

2-bedroom, 3-slides/outside kitchen/bath-half/fireplace/auto leveling/NEW!!!

Was $39,995

rear kitchen/outside kitchenentertainment/2-ACs/electric jacks-awning/NEW!!!

Was $39,995

13ft garage/electric levelingawning/residential refrigerator/queen bedroom MSRP $64,995

front kitchen, 4-slides/2-ACs/2sofas and recliners/NEW F FLOORPLAN/6-point leveling Was $59,995

batth and half/auto leveling/king beddroom/huge front bath/patio deck/multiple awnings Was $59,995

Now $18,961

Now $28,823

Now $34,717

N Now $45,623

N Now $45,219

N Now $39,894

Grand Design Momentum FWTH

Rubicon Toy H l Hauler

Starcraft TT

Clipper Cadet C d t TT

Rockwood FW

Octane Toy H l Hauler

Montana

Aspen Trail TT

Open Range FW

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS www.LakerLutzNews.com

July 1, 2020

5A

child to receive a backpack. Some vendors will offer school supplies and take-home activities. Admission and all school supplies (while supplies last) are free.

For information and to register, call (727) 674-1464, or visit EventBrite.com.

Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com

MERIT SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

DONATION DRIVE

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices will be collecting donations during July for the Pasco County School District’s ABC (Assist, Believe & Care) Program, which was created to provide financial assistance to students and their families who are experiencing economic hardship.

Money donated goes into a fund that teachers can use when they see or learn of a need a child may have.

Cash donations may be made at any of the tax collector locations in Pasco County.

For information on the ABC campaign and other charitable giving programs, call Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at (727) 847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH

Westfield Citrus Park, 8021 Citrus Park Town Center in Tampa, will host a Full Inclusion Back-to-School Bash on July 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.The event focuses on families with both neuro-diverse and neurotypical children.

There will be a “Quiet Hour” when the ‘doors’ open an hour prior to the event for children on the spectrum or with sensory disorders. Both vendors and guests are asked to wear masks, but a DIY mask-making station will be provided. There also will be a touchless photo booth with characters, and plexiglass partitions on tables.

Families must register in advance for a

The National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) announced more than 3,300 winners of National Merit Scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities.

Officials of each sponsor college selected their scholarship winners from among the finalists in the 2020 National Merit Scholarship Program who plan to attend their institution.

The awards provide between $500 and $2,000 annually for up to four years of undergraduate study at the institution financing the scholarship.

These area students are recipients of a college-sponsored award: • Steven Miltenberger, Land O’ Lakes, Land O’ Lakes High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: computer science.

• Emily Flinter, Lutz, Carrollwood Day School: National Merit Emory University Scholarship. Probable career field: medicine.

• Rebekah Hurwitz, Lutz, Steinbrenner High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: actuarial science.

• Vivek Kondapavuluru, Lutz, Hillsborough High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: medicine.

• Zachary Melson, Lutz, Middleton High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: undecided.

• Rana Xen Scherer, Lutz, Steinbrenner High School: National Merit University of

WE’RE SAILLING THROUGH THIS T TOGETHER R!

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY SCHOOLS

Art competition winner

Wiregrass Ranch High School student Anna Speer has been selected as the 2020 winner of the Congressional Art Competition, which recognizes and encourages artistic talent among high school students in Florida’s 12th Congressional District. Speer’s oil painting, ‘Reflections,’ will hang in the U.S. Capitol over the next year. She was nominated by teacher Paula Roush-Smith. Other award winners: Nathan Wang, Land O’ Lakes High: Award of Merit; and, Sarah Evans, Kara Galley and Kiley Gambrel-Groover, Mitchel High: Honorable Mentions.

Central Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: electrical engineering.

• Nicholas Gray, Dade City, Pasco High School: National Merit University of Central Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: computer science.

• Riya Choski, Odessa, Gulf High School: National Merit University of South Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: medicine.

• Bethany Bradshaw,Trinity, Mitchell High School: National Merit University of Central Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: aerospace engineering.

• Dustin Rendell, Trinity, Mitchell High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: medicine.

• Shannon Chen, Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: dentistry.

• Mindy Do,Wesley Chapel, Cypress Creek High School: National Merit University of South Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: health care.

• Achyudhan Kutuva,Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: science/research.

• Stanley Moonjeli,Wesley Chapel, Land O’ Lakes High School: National Merit University of Florida Scholarship. Probable career field: mechanical engineering (robotics).

A U N IIQU Q U E & P LEAS QU L E A S U RAB R A B LE LE

D DINING EXPERIENCE EXP PERIENCE AUTHEN NTIC MEXICAN CUIS SINE

Open Evveryday 11am--9pm for Carryo yout, Deliivvery & Door Dash 38361 Co Rd 54, Zephyrhills s • (813) 355-3627 • www.plaza amexicobarandgrill.com WE SL S LEY C HAPE H EL L JUS U ST 20 MINU UT TE S AWA WAY

$6.99-$9.99 Lu Lunch Men nu • 11am-2:30pm • 30 Ittems to choose from

$5 OF F

B UY 1 G ET 1 1//2 OF F LU NC H M E N U ON L LU LY Y • 11A AM-2:30P M

ANY P U RC HAS H E $25 OR MORE

PLAZA MEXICO Restaurant Bar & Grill

PLAZA MEXICO O Restaurant Bar & Grill

able, per visit.

With this coupon. One coupon per ta Lunches must be purchased in the same transaction.

Not valid with other offers. Offer exp pires 7/31/20.

With this coupon. One coupon per table, per visit.

Not valid with other offers or with the purchase of alco ohol. Offer expires 7/31/20.

thankS t h a n k S to to our our t eaM a anD nD c coMMunitY! oMMunit Y! teaM

• Full Service Restaurant & Pub • Lottery System for Tee Times • NEW Champion Turf Greens

iin n these these uncertain uncer tain times, times, the the importance impor tance of of local local news news and and community community connection connection are are more more evident e vident tthan han ever. ever. We We a are re c committed ommitted tto o delivering d elivering the the latest latest and and most most accurate accurate coviDcoviD19 19 news news and and remain remain dedicated dedicated tto oh helping elping local local businesses get b usinesses g et tthe he word word o out ut as as they they rreopen eopen and adapt a nd a dapt to to the the changing changing marketplace. marketplace. thankS to thankS o the DeDicateD DeDica ateD teaM Who keepS k Your Your local Yo lo ocal neWSpaper neWSpa paper going!

Diane Kortus publiSher

• NEW Bunker Renovation

10641 Old Tampa Bay Drive, San Antonio w ww.tampabgcc.com/annual-golf-pass 2020 ANNUAL GOLF PASSES • MULTI-LEVEL PASSES AVAILABLE

PLATINUM Unlimited Green Fees • 7 Days a Week Anytime Full Access to Club Tournaments

GOLD

SILVER

Unlimited Green Fees Mon – Fri • After 1 pm Sat & Sun • Anytime

Unlimited Green Fees on Par 3 Course

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL SETH VANHALL.

352-588-9265

B.C. Manion

Kevin Weiss

Maryy R h Rathman

Ma Matt Misttretta

Stefanie f B l Burlingame

eDit tor

St taff Writer

eDit torial aSSiSta tant

ar rt Direc ctor

graphic DeSigner

Maryy Eb h Eberhard

Carolyn yn Bennettt

Terri Williamson

Kellli Carm mack

Kennedyy M d k Murdock

accounting

cuSto toMe er Service e

Sr. account Manager

Marke eting aSSiSt tant

SaleS aSSiSta tant

together, We are

#UNSINKABLE READERS - Join our Club Go to tinyurl.com/y74gjrf8

Guardianship Family Law Business Tr Transactions Commercial Litigation

Excellence in the Law

We pride ourselves on providing creative solutions to your legal needs.

We

ADVERTISERS – Call 813-909-2800, or email sales@lakerlutznews.com to learn how we can help you.

www.LakerLutzNews.com Weekly W e e k y news n e w s that t h a t impacts i m p a c t s your y o u r life i f e and a n d community. c o m m u n i t y.

The Laker-Lutz News

6A

July 1, 2020

@LakerLutzNews www.LakerLutzNews.com

lakerlutznews

813-221-3759 or www.bbdg glaw.com

Pasco Tax Collector’s Office back in business

By Kevin Weiss

ships, Fasano noted his office has been forced to issue roughly 1,000 more tax lien certificates (an enforceable first lien against the property for unpaid real estate taxes) compared to this time last year.

“We had a lot of phone calls from people who were having some difficulty paying their taxes this year,” Fasano said.“It’s just a sad situation for everybody.”

kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

After closing its doors for nearly a month amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Pasco County Tax Collector’s five countywide branches are back open for business.

And, they’ve been quite busy ever since reopening, Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano said during an East Pasco Networking Group virtual meeting earlier this month.

Besides handling various tax payments, Fasano said his office has had an influx of other requests of late, such as road tests for driving licenses, hunting and fishing licenses, issuing applications and renewals for concealed weapons permits, and more.

In fact, concealed weapons permits, specifically, have shot up in recent weeks, he said.

Concealed weapons permits are offered at three of the county tax collector’s five offices — in Dade City, Wesley Chapel and Gulf Harbors, respectively.

And, those offices recently have been “overwhelmed” with the number of people seeking concealed weapons permits, Fasano said. Over 100 permits were issued each weekday in the first week of June alone, he said.

Fasano observed of the influx:“I won’t expand as to why, I can only assume, of what is happening throughout this country and throughout this world.This happens a lot, whenever there’s some unrest, of any sort, we see a large population of people coming in, old, young, and they’ve come into our three offices that we provide weapons permits.”

Fasano added “the vast majority” of weapons permits issued are from people who’ve never had one before, while some

COVID-19 SAFETY MEASURES IMPLEMENTED

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano was the featured speaker at an East Pasco Networking Group virtual meeting earlier this month.

others were simply renewals. He went on to mention the three branches provide a “onestop shop” in offering applications, fingerprints, photographs and related services for concealed weapons permits; it usually takes a few weeks for new permits to be issued, pending state approval, he said.

REVENUE SHORTFALL, PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

While tax collector’s offices and lobbies were closed for much of April, the government agency did provide many services through its website, call center and by mail.

However, the agency still took a “significant revenue loss” during that period in most everything but property taxes, Fasano said.That included fees collected from providing motor vehicle services, title work, birth certificates, concealed weapons per-

The Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office has reopened all five of its countywide branches.

mits and so on.

But, despite the shortfall in fees, Fasano noted his office didn’t have to lay off or furlough any of its 200 or so employees.

Said Fasano,“We were able to do things so that no one got laid off, no one lost their job, no one had to collect unemployment, and everybody stayed in their position, working every day, five days a week, and it’s been successful.”

Meanwhile, for those residents who’ve been laid off or furloughed in the wake of COVID-19, the tax office has multiple payment assistance programs for those struggling.

Fasano mentioned there’s quarterly property tax payment plans, as well as partial payment options, where residents can pay increments of at least $100 at a time.

As a sign of the present economic hard-

Avoid risky celebrations for the Fourth of July

By Mary Rathman mrathman@lakerlutznews.com

The National Safety Council’s mission is to eliminate preventable deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the road through leadership, research, education and advocacy, according to its website, NSC.org.

While the summer season brings to mind barbecues, parades and fireworks, the NSC advises that “fireworks at public displays should be conducted by professionals, and fireworks should not be used at home.”

If consumer fireworks are legal to buy

where you live and if you choose to use them, the NSC recommends following these safety tips: • Never allow young children to handle fireworks • Older children can use them, but only under close adult supervision • Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol • Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear • Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands • Never light fireworks indoors • Only use fireworks away from people,

houses and flammable material • Keep pets inside • Never point or throw fireworks at another person • Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting • Never ignite devices in a container • Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks • Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding • Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of fire • Never use illegal fireworks

SINCE 1946

BE

Stylish BE Daring BE Jeweled

Diamonds Available

Jeweler on Premises Laser Welder Repairs!

Let us fix your eyeglasses & much more

We Buy Gold & Diamonds at the guaranteed highest price and paid in cash!

Lay Away & Gift Certificates Available

EXPERT WATCH & JEWELRY REPAIR

Sparklers are a lot more dangerous than most people think, according to the NSC. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.They also can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries.

For children age 5 and younger, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the total estimated injuries.

To celebrate the Fourth of July, or any other occasion, consider having children use glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.

and 1 topping

DAILY LUNCH SPECIAL Small Pizza, Salad & Drink

OR Spaghetti, Salad & Drink

$5.99 $9.99

813-909-4888 2153 Collier Parkway • Land O’ Lakes www.FranklinJeweler.net

GIA & EGL

SPARKLERS POSE A DANGER, TOO

SPAGHETTI OR SHELLS

Franklin Jewelers MON-FRI 10AM-6PM • SATURDAY 11AM-5PM CLOSED SUNDAYS

The tax collector also outlined how each branch has taken additional safety precautions since reopening, in the wake of COVID-19.

Those precautions have entailed spreading chairs 6 feet apart; installing countertop shields to create a barrier between representatives and customers; encouraging — but not mandating — customers to wear masks; and, limiting the amount of customers in the office at any one time.

Additionally, tax collector has developed a text message notification system that alerts waiting customers when they’re ready to be serviced.The technology provides an added layer of social distancing, Fasano said, as customers can choose to sit in their car or wait outside until they’re alerted that their ticket number will be called shortly.

It’s similar to how restaurants sends texts to guests for waitlist updates and automatic reservation reminders, he said.The service is already underway at the Wesley Chapel office, and should be available at all five offices in forthcoming weeks, Fasano said.

Said Fasano,“We think that’s going to go a long way in, I hope, in more social distancing and trying to comply with the governor’s (Ron DeSantis) suggestions.”

For more information, visit PascoTaxes.com.

Tues, Wed and Sun

DELIVERY DELIVERY THRU THRU DOOR DOOR DASH DASH ••• •• • DINE-IN DINE-IN TAKE TAKE OUT OUT ORDER ORDER ONLINE ONLINE ••• •• • PICKUP PICKUP WINDOW WINDOW WHERE WHERE AVAILABLE AVAILABLE

LAND O’ LAKES 813-996-1211 DADE CITY 352-567-1414 ZEPHYRHILLS 813-779-1999

FOLLOWING GUIDELINES FOR DINE-IN

iÌ Þ ÕÀ i` V> >À Õ> > V>À` v>ÃÌ] i>ÃÞ > ` V v `i Ì > & Ballantrae Pro ofessional Park 17718 Hunting Bow Circle Lutz, FL 33558

Se even Oaks 2241 Gre een Hedges Way Wesley Chapel, C FL 33544

Phone: 813-973-1033 www.SpeechTherapyT p pyTa ampa pa.com

• HIP PAA Comp pliant for Security • Online – No Software to Install • Interactive • Child and Th herapist Control Apps, Whiteboard, and Docume ents

Áß w ÝjÁ ? a MÖaÄ ?Áj Ý ?Ü? ?M ju Á Ö? ? ÍÁj? ÜjÁ Ôåå Ý W a Í Ä * * 8 /9 ¨ ," 9 1,"* // 9 ¨ //,"* 9 ¨

, ¨ - * E / -",

,- ¨ */- ¨ *, -- " ? a ? ß Í jÁ Ý ajM

Í?Í ~ W a Í Ä± 2 j Í jÁ W WÄ Ýj ?Üj ÜjÁ Ôå ß j ? Á Ä ¾ j Þ ¬ j Á j W j Ý Í j a W ? ? Á Ö ? ? Ý j Ý Ý ? Í ÄÍÁ? Ä j ¬ Ý Í WjÁÍ? W a Í Ä F Ýj WjÁÍ wß ß Ö j ww Wj Ü Ä Í±

> v À vÀii iÛ> Õ>Ì n£Î ÇxÈ ää £

iÀÌ v i` >À Õ> > VÌ ÀðV Ó " / " -

­ÇÓÇ® Îx£ ää £

www.LakerLutzNews.com

ɭȡȡƤȡȄǐȡ

• Speech and Occupational TeleTherapy

­n£Î® ÇxÈ ää £

July 1, 2020

7A

Health

Closer Look & A N

A D V E R T I S E R

P R O F I L E

Downtown Law Firm Experience Now Available in North Tampa

By William Jacko Special to The Laker / Lutz News

When people need a good lawyer, they often turn to a big downtown firm.

With the opening of its new building in North Tampa, Bleakley Bavol Denman & Grace now provides this big-firm quality and prestige for Pasco and North Hillsborough residents.

“We’re right on the corner of Florida and Bearss. We’re convenient for people who want the service that a well-established Tampa firm offers, but don’t want the hassle of having to go downtown,” said Jonathan Newlon, partner.

Although BBD&G represents many large commercial and institutional clients, it also is devoted to representing smaller businesses and individuals.

Newlon specializes in estate and tax planning, probate and trust administration and litigation, guardianship and fiduciary litigation, and family law litigation.

He also specializes in listening to his clients.

“What I pride myself most on is paying attention to what people actually want,” said Newlon. “I make sure I sit down and listen to the clients, and try to understand exactly what they want.”

Newlon grew up in rural Pasco County in San Antonio. His small-town roots give him an affinity for Pasco and North Tampa, and many of his clients are from this area.

Newlon deals largely with death and divorce, and advises prospective clients to seek general advice early to help them in their decision-making process.

“I’ve had a lot of people come in and talk to me about a divorce,” said Newlon. “Sometimes I don’t hear from them again. Other times I’ll hear from them a year later, and they say, ‘I’m glad that I didn’t pull the trigger rashly

before.’ Most of the time those people are grateful that I listened to them and gave them some options, instead of just saying, ‘OK, hire me, and let’s do this.’

There’s nothing wrong with going to get some advice and then not doing anything with it other than thinking about it.”

Clients can feel confident in the advice they receive at BBD&G. The firm has received a prestigious AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the gold standard in the legal ratings business.

“The A represents the legal skill and capabilities that we have here, and A is obviously the highest rating that you can have. The V stands for the highest ethical rating that you can have, so the AV rating is considered a preeminent rating of lawyers in the Martindale-Hubbell system,” explains Newlon.

Many of BBD&G’s partners gained experience working for big downtown law firms before founding BBD&G, and Newlon considers that big-firm experience a valuable asset.

“We can deliver that level of service and legal skill, and at the same time, we know that people ultimately want to be treated like people. We all appreciate family, fellowship and civic duty. We’re a firm that has a lot of legal acumen, but that also really enjoys helping our clients,” said Newlon.

The firm welcomes visitors to its North Tampa office, but is also prepared to assist clients abiding by COVID-19 safety recommendations.

“We have all kinds of tech capacity, including large conference rooms with large screens for video conferencing, “ said Newlon. “My advice is to get guidance sooner rather than later, and we have the tech capacity to allow people to do that now without having to compromise their health.”

813-221-3759 or www.bbdglaw.com

“It’ lik ke your hometown “It’s diner g grew up and went tto the city.”

DINING ROOMS ARE OPEN! Orrder online or call in! o 813-345-8495 2295 52 SR 54, Lutz (At Collier Parkway)

7:00am to 2:30pm daily

ke ekes.com

Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com

COPING WITH GRIEF

Gulfside Hospice will offer free bereavement support groups open to the community that are both in person with limited capacity and virtual meetings.

The in-person meetings will take place at the Rucki Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills. Ongoing groups will be on Wednesdays at 3 p.m., and a new six-week session will start on July 8 at 11 a.m. Groups are limited to a capacity of eight people, to allow for social distancing.

Preregistration is required by calling Sonia Houston at (727) 845-5707.

The virtual support group will take place online via Zoom, weekly at 11 a.m., on Thursdays.

For information, call Dody Santana at (727) 845-5707.

BLOOD DRIVES

The YMCAs of Tampa Bay are working with OneBlood and LifeSouth to host blood donation drives in locations across Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Hernando and Citrus counties, on July 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

All donors will receive a free COVID-19 antibody test, a free tote bag and a free wellness checkup that includes blood pressure, pulse, temperature, iron count and cholesterol screening.

These area YMCAs will participate: • East Pasco Family YMCA, 37301 Chapel Hill Loop in Zephyrhills • James P. Gills Family YMCA, 8411 Photonics Drive in Trinity For other locations and to make an appointment, visit OneBlood.org/ymca, or call (888) 936-6283.

WALK FOR ALS

The ALS Association Florida Chapter is inviting the Greater Tampa Bay community to take part in a one-of-a-kind Walk Your Way experience, presented by Tech Data Corporation, to help support ALS patients, while also fighting back to defeat the disease.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

Walk Your Way to Defeat ALS will take place on Aug. 1, through a virtual online platform.

Teams should gather at 9:45 a.m., as live opening ceremonies begin at 10 a.m.

Walk Your Way will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Participants are asked to take personal walks with their family, friends or coworkers, in a route and format that is decided by each “team.”

The walk can be around the block, in a park, inside your home or in the backyard.

Teams can decorate their cars and organize a car parade through their subdivision.

At the end of the event, all teams will gather for brief, live closing ceremonies at 11:30 a.m.

Those interested should register by contacting Samantha Schneider at sschneider@ alsafl.org or (888) 257.1717, ext. 115.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL PHYSICALS

Premier Community HealthCare is offering $15 back-to-school physicals until Aug. 31, on Monday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., at its six locations, including Dade City and Zephyrhills.

Students can receive a complete physical examination, state-required screening, and a free backpack with school supply kit (while supplies last).

PELVIC HEALTH FOR WOMEN Dr. Vanessa M. Brockhouse, a women’s pelvic health physical therapist, recently opened her practice in Wesley Chapel, Fruitful Womb with virtual and in-person sessions.

The practice emphasizes prenatal and postpartumin care, including preparation for birth, prenatal exercise and postpartum care to ensure good bowel, bladder and sexual health.

Brockhouse treats women with complex cases of pelvic pain, urinary conditions, bowel conditions, sexual dysfunction, orthopedic hip/pelvic pain, prenatal and postpartum conditions.

As an advocate for women, and a pelvic health educator, Brockhouse believes in addressing women’s health with a whole body approach, which allows identification at the root cause resulting in relief of symptoms.

Dr. Brockhouse’s office is at 2136 Ashley Oaks Circle, Suite 102, in Wesley Chapel.

For information, visit FruitfulWombPT.com, call (813) 6078776, or email vanessa@fruitfulwombpt.com.

Schedule an appointment by calling (352) 518-2000, or online at PremierHC.org.

Same-day appointments are available.

COVID-19 FACILITY DOUBLES BEDS

Hillsborough County is in the process of contracting for an additional 60 beds at an assisted living facility that is serving as a transition unit for senior care facility residents diagnosed with COVID-19, County Administrator Mike Merrill announced on June 15.

The decision to pursue additional transitional beds at The Inn at University Village is a proactive step, Merrill said in a news release.

The Inn is for senior care facility residents who were hospitalized with the virus, but who do not require hospitalizations.The facility is serving as a transitional unit between the hospital and their senior care community for those patients while they wait for final clearance to return to their previous residence.

The patients are temporarily residing in a separate wing specifically designed for COVID-19 cases.

TEENS AND SLEEP

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), sleep problems also are a concern for teenagers, and the average teen needs about nine hours of sleep a night.

Children and teens who do not get that much may have problems getting along with others, and they may feel angry and impulsive, have mood swings, feel sad or depressed, or lack motivation.They also may have issues with paying attention, and may get lower grades and feel stressed.

In addition to the sleep tips offered to adults, teens can try: • Avoiding screen time at least an hour before bed • Banning all-nighters (don’t leave homework for the last minute) • Writing in a diary or on a to-do list just before sleep, to reduce stress • Sleeping no more than two hours later on weekend mornings than on weekday mornings

Resort Resor esort St Style tyle Livin L Living iving without withou ithout th tthe he Resor R Resort esort St Style tyylle Cos Cost ost

Pre remier 55+ 55+ Community Communitty y Premier

Dental Implants • Wisdom Teeth Non­surgical and Surgical Cosmetic Procedures

25% off Implants

Self Pay Patients Only

$565 VALUE

MUST PRESENT COUPON. RESTRICTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS MAY APPLLY Y.

F FREE CT SCAN R STRICTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS APPLLY RE Y.

for exxtraction and sedation SKIN TIGHTENING $1,900 $ , of all 4 wisdom teeth $300 off ANY PROCEDURE RESTRICTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS MA AY Y APPLLY Y.

CALL US TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT F O R A GENUINE AND HONEST TREA ATTMENT REC OMMENDA ATT ION!

8 888-480-5495

634 40 Santa Fe Dr • Zephyrhills W W W. S U N D A N C E F L A . C O M 8A

July 1, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

SA AVVINGS OF UP TO $1,000. RESTRICTIONS AND EXCLUSIONS MAY APPLLYY.

Dr. Andrés Guerra

813­609­4486

4675 Van Dyke Rd. Lutz 33558

oralsurgeryandimplantspecialists.com

HURRICANE, from page 1A canes, including three major hurricanes, according to NOAA, a division of the National Weather Service.

Concerns about the potential spread of COVID-19 — the deadly virus that has already claimed more than 3,400 lives across Florida — is causing emergency officials to plan differently this year.

Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa said the county will be working with the Department of Health that is maintaining a current list of COVIDpositive patients, as well as people of interest.

Part of the county’s plan calls for using the center at Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, to shelter positive COVID-19 patients, or people who have been exposed to the virus.

The county also will use schools as shelters, and will open them as they are needed.

This year, because of the pandemic, the county also has lined up some hotels and a resort, to use, if necessary, Fossa said. Some empty big box stores also might serve as shelters, he added.

“You’ve got to get creative in this kind of work,” he said.

The county needs to add more potential shelters this year because, in response to COVID-19, the American Red Cross and FEMA have changed the footprint required for sheltering.

“It used to be at general population, you were allocated 20 square feet, inside this big open area. That was your little slice of life.

Now, with COVID, they made that 60 square feet,” Fossa said.

SHELTER ROUTINES WILL BE DIFFERENT

While waiting to register, those arriving will have to stay apart from each other, to maintain a safe social distance. Before entering the shelter, they will have their temperature taken, will be asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guideline questions and will be given a mask to wear in the shelter, Fossa said.

Anyone whose temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees F., will be sent to a different shelter, if time permits, or will remain at the shelter but will be housed in a separate part of the shelter.

Fossa said the county has secured enough personal protective equipment for county staff, nurses and firefighters that will be working at the shelters.

The county is uncertain how comfortable people will feel about staying at a shelter because of concerns about COVID-19. It has released a survey to try to get a better idea of where Pasco residents stand on that issue.

Fossa noted that AAA has done a survey in Florida and the results showed that 42% would not go to a shelter because of COVID19.

The emergency management director also noted that the state has issued some guidance on whether people should evacuate.

“If you have a home that was built post1996 and you’re not on the water, you’re not in an evacuation zone, the coastline or anything like that, they’re (state officials) actually encouraging residents to stay in their houses for a Category 1, maybe Category 2 (storm).”

Fossa urged residents who have not already prepared for a potential threat, to do so now.

“Be ready,” he said.“If you don’t have a gokit yet, you’re behind the curve.

“If we need to evacuate you, I am not going to sit at your house for 45 minutes while you say, ‘I’m going to grab this, I’m going to grab that. I’m going to grab that.’

Have it ready to go,” Fossa said.

Those evacuating should “go 10s of miles, not 100s of miles,” Fossa added.“You can go 10s of miles to stay with family and friends.”

By staying close to home, residents can avoid getting stuck in miles of traffic jams and keep hotel rooms free for people who are evacuating from more vulnerable areas.

If you are ordered to evacuate, wait for emergency officials to let you know that it’s safe to return.

The county has a fleet of drones it can use to assess damage, Fossa said.

He also noted that the county has 28 generators, which it can use to temporarily restore power to traffic lights that have been knocked out by severe weather.

And, it is getting another generator that is large enough to power a small building, he said. The primary use for that generator would be to restore power to a nursing home — to avoid a tragic outcome like the one that occurred at a Hollywood, Florida, nursing home a few years back.

Pasco County also has had to plan differently for managing its Emergency Operations Center.

“We’re not going to be like Irma. I’m not going to have 120 bodies in my EOC,” Fossa said. Instead, there will be about 17 key personnel there.

“Everybody else will work virtually.That’s the safest way to do it,” Fossa said.

The county has a wealth of information available for residents who want to find out if they’re in an evacuation zone, how to prepare for a hurricane and what to do in the aftermath.

You can find that information at PascoEmergencyManagement.com.

For tips on how to prepare for a hurricane, stay safe when it hits and recover from any damage, please turn to page 1B.

MICKENS, from page 1A He reasoned the city should be more conservative with construction projects near-term, citing possible budgetary impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic and cost overruns on previous projects.

He also argued the project — a 672square-foot concrete block structure and roof — shouldn’t be a complicated undertaking for any construction company.

The decision was tabled until the June 23 meeting, so the city manager could review the matter and make another recommendation.

The Mickens Field building has a target completion date of Oct. 31.The old concession/restroom structure was demolished in late May by the city’s public works department.

In other action, commissioners unanimously approved preliminary construction plans for Hilltop Estates, a 250 single-family lot subdivision on 61 acres of land, situated off of U.S. 301 and Clinton Avenue.

Some other citywide updates shared during the meeting: • Downtown sidewalk pressure washing is scheduled for July 5.

• The City Hall lobby will be open to customers beginning on July 6. Masks will be required and visitors will not be allowed in staff areas.

• Utility billing turnoffs and late fees will resume in August.

• The city has applied for a grant through the Florida Redevelopment Association, for transportation enhancements to the Roy Hardy Trail.

• City staff is gathering information on wayfinding signage, and will schedule a presentation at an upcoming commission meeting for further input and direction.

• Dade City Manager Leslie Porter is seeking to temporarily outsource the city finance director functions to a freelance accountant who has worked with other local governments, until a permanent replacement can be found.

• Sarah Rader was sworn in as deputy city clerk, taking over for Erika Cordoba, who is now working in the city’s planning and zoning department.

COMMISSIONERS FAREWELL

The June 23 virtual meeting marked a farewell for Mayor Pro Tem Eunice Penix and Commissioner Nicole Deese Newlon.

Neither commissioner sought re-election.

Penix, a retired schoolteacher, served as a commissioner for nearly 27 years, dating back to August 1993.

Newlon, a commercial law attorney, served one four-year term after being elected in a three-way race in April 2016.

Penix took time to deliver some parting

RETAIL, from page 1A website.

Crumbl Cream flavors include Churro, Buckeye Brownie and Muddy Buddy.

Zukku Sushi offers a menu of sushi burritos, curated pig bowls and curated sushi bowls, sashimi and nigiri. Currently the restaurant dishes its bowls at the Heights Public Market, at Armature Works in Tampa.

Charles Schwab provides a range of brokerage, banking and financial advisory services.

IVX Health offers biologic injections and infusions for patients with health care issues, including Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, lupus and multiple sclerosis.The clinic provides private suites with leather recliners, flexible scheduling and personal service from its clinical staff, according to its website.

European Wax Center provides a range of waxing services for the entire body.

Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is a specialty shop for pet food and supplies and pet grooming.

La-Z-Boy is a home and office furniture store that includes accessories and home decor.

European Wax Center provides a range of waxing services for the entire body.

La-Z-Boy is a home and office furniture store that includes accessories and home decor.

Several new tenants, including Crumbl Cookies and Zukku Sushi, will soon occupy storefronts along Sierra Center Boulevard at Cypress Creek Town Center.

Weekly news that impacts your life and community.

813-909-2800 www.LakerLutzNews.com The Laker-Lutz News

@LakerLutzNews

lakerlutznews

The Best Value on Mobility M Solutions for You and Yo our Home • Mobility Scooters • Power Wheelchairs • Custom Entry Ramps • Auto Scooter Liftts • Stair Lifts • Installation and Repairs

NEW C USTOMER DISC COUNT

COURTESY OF CITY OF DADE CITY

Dade City Commissioner Nicole Deese Newlon

10% % OFF + FREE mob bility consultation

Visit our new Zephyrhills sh howroom.

Private appointments available.

Call to schedule yours today.

Monday – Friday, 10 to 4 • Call for after­hours appointments Dade City Mayor Pro-Tem Eunice Penix

(813) 733­1040

words to thank the Dade City community: “I’m grateful for the citizens of Dade City for allowing me to serve them for 27 years. I am so honored. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I love all of you.”

Newlon did not offer any comments.

Fellow commissioners, meanwhile, shared positive words to Penix and Newlon for their dedication and service to the municipality.

They lauded Penix for her smile, wisdom and powerful invocations, while Newlon was regarded for her tenacity and overall sense of humor.

Some Dade City residents also weighed in, to recognize the outgoing commissioners for their contributions over the years.

Dade City resident Clyde Carter, a minister at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, said: “We do appreciate everything that they’ve done during their tenures, and continue to do things even past their tenures in the community. I do want to give a shout out this evening and we thank them very much from a community standpoint.”

Dade City resident Christopher King, who operates a youth mentorship charity and is running for Penix’s vacated commission seat, echoed similar sentiments:“I wanted to just say thank you to Commissioner Penix and Commissioner Newlon for their time and service on the commission, and their commitment to the community. All the things they have done is a tribute to their work ethic, loyalty and patronage to Dade City… .and we will miss you dearly.”

mobilityplus.com/pasco

39023 County Road 54 (Corner of CR 54 and 20th Street) Zephyrhills, FL 33542

SAME DAY EMERGENCYY DENT TAL

Providing ALL DENTAL CARE A Safely Adhering to COVID V -19 Guidelines

IMPLANT SPECIAL

$899

SINGLE IMPLANT

REG. $1800

FREE 2ND OPINIONS & CONSULLTATIONS

(813) 780-1403 6153 Fort King Road Zephyrhills, FL 33542

OVER 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

www.ArtisticTeeth.com www.LakerLutzNews.com

July 1, 2020

9A

Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Seeking a summer adventure? Try scalloping

By Kevin Weiss Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Scalloping Safety and Fishing Regulations:

kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

G

rab a snorkel, a swim mask and some fins — because • Scallops must be landed within areas recreational that are open to harvest scallop season is right • Active scalloping area: All Pasco around the corner in Pasco County waters and Pinellas County waCounty. ters north of the Anclote Key Lighthouse, The annual 10-day bay including all waters of the Anclote River scallop season this year in • Scallops may be collected by hand or Pasco runs July 17 through with a landing or dip net July 26. It begins annually on • Daily bag limit: 2 gallons whole bay scalthe third Friday in July. lops in shell or one pint of shucked per The county’s scallop zone person; maximum of 10 gallons of scalencompasses all state waters lops in shell or ½-gallon of bay scallop south of the Hernando-Pasco meat per vessel county line and north of the Anclote Key Lighthouse in • Scallops may not be possessed on wanorthern Pinellas County, ters outside of areas that are open to and includes all waters of harvest the Anclote River.

COURTESY OF FLORIDA’S SPORTS COAST • Properly display a divers-down flag The outdoor adventure The 10-day annual recreational bay scallop season returns to Pasco County waters from July 17 through while in the water activity of hunting for scal- July 26. lops is often referred to as an underwater Easter egg hunt.

Requiring only basic swimming skills, the idea is to float along the top of the water until you spot scallop shells in Florida seagrass beds lying several feet underwater, then you grab them by hand or with a landing or dip net.

For the county’s tourism agency — known as Florida’s Sports Coast — scalloping means big business.

Last year’s 10-day season generated more than a half-million dollars in economic impact, said Florida’s Sports Coast tourism director Adam Thomas.

It is the top leisure activity for the Hunting for scallops is often referred to as an tourism agency, representing about 5% underwater Easter egg hunt. to 6% of all visitation during the fourth quarter in 2019,Thomas said.

“It is so much fun. I officially consider Since Pasco is the southernmost county myself a Floridian, after having participated in Florida to offer a scallop season,Thomas in that activity,” Gayson, a North Carolina said the bulk of non-residents partaking in native, said. the activity come from the state’s central “It’s really a one-of-a-kind thing and it is and southeast regions. so easy. It’s just addicting, especially if As COVID-19 wiped out many tourism you’re competitive, like myself, you really opportunities for Pasco the last several could just stay there for hours, and look and months, Thomas is poised to have scallop scout and dive and grab, so it’s really the season soon underway. “Economically best.” speaking, it’s a need right now,” he said.

Thomas, too, harped on the competitive COURTESY OF FLORIDA FISH AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION COMMISSION Thomas has discovered scalloping in side of scalloping with friends and family.

Shown here is a map of Pasco County’s scallop zone. It encompasses all state waters south Pasco to be a more pleasant endeavor com- The tourism director mentioned he often of the Hernando-Pasco county line and north of the Anclote Key Lighthouse in northern pared to trying the activity in more challenges his wife to see who can go unnorthern Florida counties. derwater the longest and collect the most Pinellas County, and includes all waters of the Anclote River.

A former tourism director for Citrus scallops at once.

County, which also has a scallop season, On that note,Thomas acknowledged the cause you’re guaranteed to have a fun As for having a scallop season longer Thomas explained the activity up north is “a activity creates lasting memories and family time,” Gayson said. than 10 days in the future, Thomas said it little bit more exhausting” because it often bonds — being out on a boat, fishing for Added Thomas:“We’ve got some of the will probably take another couple years requires divers to fight tides in 6 feet or 7 scallops, then cooking hauls for a meal to- best captains and guides that really cater to until the FWC grants the county that opfeet of water to collect a decent haul. “It gether. the consumer experience of scalloping, and portunity. The ideal scenario would be to takes a little bit longer to get to your count “It’s definitely a generational experience not only scalloping, but also fishing and someday offer upwards of a 30-day scallop or your fill of the boat.” to have,” Thomas said. “My kids, they’re 6 being on the water. Not everyone has a season, he said.

In Pasco, however, he’s found success and 8 years old right now, and they love it, boat, but everyone has a means to a boat, “The (scallop) population has come simply floating in water and catching big they look forward to going scalloping every and it starts with the Pasco County guides.” back, but the sustainability of the populaenough scallops reaching down 2 feet or 3 single year.”

The county’s bay scallop season is a tion, that’s what the FWC is still trying to feet beneath the surface.

For those who don’t have a personal newly rebooted venture. determine,”Thomas said.

Explained Thomas,“It is so much easier vessel or boat or a saltwater fishing license, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation In anticipation of continued growth in here.You really don’t need fins, depending Florida’s Sports Coast officials recommend Commission (FWC) granted Pasco an annu- popularity with scalloping, Pasco County on the tide. You just float around, you can booking a half-day or full-day private guided al scallop season last year, following a Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources stand up.The water came up to my thighs, charter with a local fishing captain. successful trial period in 2018. has announced concentrated efforts to exand sometimes my knees. Here, you just “They will always put you right on top Before that, it was nearly 25 years since pand and improve county boat ramps to float around, let the tide do all your pad- of the honey hole,” Gayson said. “They residents and visitors could traverse Pasco provide more trailer parking and overall dling for you.” know the scallops, they know where they waters for scallops. better launch experiences for both local Florida’s Sports Coast communications are and that’s half the fun of going out with That’s because the county’s bay scallop and out-of-town scallopers. manager Kolby Kucyk Gayson tried scallop- a captain, is they really just automatically season was revoked in 1994 by the FWC, For more information, visit ing for the first time ever last year, in Pasco put you right into the experience. due to overharvesting and depleted popula- FLSportsCoast.com/things-to-do/scalloping waters, of course.

“You don’t have to bring anything other tions that couldn’t sustain an active or MyFWC.com/fishingsaltwater/ Fair to say, it quickly lured her in. than sunscreen and just a good attitude, be- recreational season. recreational/bay-scallops.

CHECK

SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SEND SPORTS NEWS TO KWEISS@LAKERLUTZNEWS.COM

THIS OUT

LOCAL BASEBALL STANDOUTS INK PRO CONTRACTS Two athletes from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area will soon get to pursue their dreams of playing professional baseball, after agreeing to terms with their respective MLB organizations.

Steinbrenner High School and Florida State University product CJ Van Eyk signed a professional contract with the Toronto Blue Jays for $1.8 million, according to multiple reports.

The 21-year-old right-handed pitcher was selected by the Blue Jays in the second round (42nd overall) in the 2020 MLB Draft earlier this month.

Across three seasons at FSU, the 6-foot-1 Van Eyk logged an 18-5 win-loss record, 3.21 ERA, 1.274 WHIP and 225 strikeouts in 176.2 innings. Van Eyk won a state title and state player of the year honors at Steinbrenner.

Meanwhile,Wesley Chapel native Carson Ragsdale — a Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School and University of South Florida (USF) product — signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for $225,000, according to multiple reports.

The 22-year-old righty was selected by the Phillies in the fourth round (116th overall) of this year’s draft.

The 6-foot-8 Ragsdale transitioned to a starter’s role in his redshirt junior year at

10A

July 1, 2020

COURTESY OF WESLEY CHAPEL HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT

Kayla Grant and Ariana Heppenstall.

Wesley Chapel High athletes sign with colleges

A pair of Wesley Chapel High School girls basketball standouts will continue their hoops careers at the collegiate level.

Senior Kayla Grant, a 5-foot-10 guard, signed with Georgia Southwestern State University, an NCAA Division II program in Americus, Georgia.

Senior Ariana Heppenstall, a 5-foot-6 guard, signed with Bryn Athyn College, an NCAA Division III program in Bryn USF, after pitching out of the bullpen his freshman and sophomore seasons. He tallied a 3.75 ERA, 1.391 WHIP and 77 strikeouts in 50.1 career innings. (He missed the 2019 season due to Tommy John surgery.)

The status of when and where Van Eyk and Ragsdale start their careers in the minor leagues remains up in the air due to uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, it might not be too long before

www.LakerLutzNews.com

Athyn, Pennsylvania.

Grant and Heppenstall helped guide the Wesley Chapel to a 26-4 mark and the Class 4A regional finals this past season.

Grant led the Wildcats in scoring (14.2 points), rebounding (11.3), assists (2.1), steals (3.7) and blocks (1.2) per game.

Heppenstall was the team’s second-leading scorer, averaging 12.1 points per game.

fans catch a glimpse of these locals in the Tampa Bay area, as both the Blue Jays and Phillies have Single-A affiliates in Dunedin and Clearwater, respectively.

SAINT LEO YOUTH SUMMER CAMP

The Saint Leo University athletics and recreation department will host a weeklong youth summer camp from July 27 through July 31.

COURTESY OF JOHN MEDVID

A solid haul

Roy Woodhouse, left, and Rick Schueller teamed up to win first place in the South Pasco Bassmasters (SPBM) June tournament on the Harris Chain of Lakes, hauling in five bass for a total weight of 17.72 pounds. The fishing duo caught their haul flipping shoreline grass using creature baits and stick worms. The next SPBM tournament is scheduled for July 18, at Lake Henderson.For information, visit SouthPascoBassmasters.com.

The Little Lions Camp is a kid-centered, fun-based day camp that primarily focuses on keeping kids physically and creatively active during the summer months.This event is open to boys and girls ages 5 to 13. The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., each day.

For cost and other information, email Carrie Fidurko at carrie.fidurko@saintleo.edu.

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

B

J U LY 1 , 2 0 2 0

Prepare now for above-normal hurricane season

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

E

xperts are predicting an abovenormal 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season — and you can reduce your risks by being prepared.

The following lists, compiled from disaster preparedness guides assembled by Hillsborough and Pasco counties, as well as other sources, are intended to help you prepare now to protect yourself and your property from destructive hurricane winds.

It’s a good idea to stay informed when a hurricane threatens. Both Pasco County and Hillsborough County have alert systems, which can keep you abreast of threats. To find out more, visit PascoCountyFl.net and HillsboroughCounty.org.

THINGS TO DO NOW BEFORE A HURRICANE, PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY:

• Be sure your trees and shrubs are trimmed.

• Clear out clogged rain gutters and downspouts.

• Document your valuables by making a list of the items, and taking photos of them and your property.

IF A HURRICANE THREATENS

• Cover windows with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters.

• Store outdoor furniture, windchimes, garbage cans, decorations, potted plants and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.

• If you have a boat, determine how and where to secure it.

PROTECT YOURSELF

• Know your evacuation zone and be prepared to leave, if authorities tell you do so.

Particularly vulnerable areas include mobile homes, high-rise buildings, coastal areas, near rivers or inland waterways, and land below sea level.

• If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone, prepare an evacuation plan that includes transportation routes and destinations, and considers all family members and pets.

• If evacuating, reach out to family or friends, now, to see if you can stay with them.Whether you are sheltering in place, or evacuating, be sure to share your plans with someone outside of the danger zone.

• When making evacuation plans, think in terms of 10s of miles away, instead of 100s of miles. People have been known to leave their homes only to go where the hurricane landed.

HAVE A GO BAG READY

Your go bag should include: • Medications • Clothing • Important documents, in a waterproof container, which includes bank account records, marriage certificates or divorce decrees, driver’s license, Social Security card, passport, titles, deeds, income tax information, trusts, wills, insurance papers and birth certificates.

SOME PRACTICAL POINTERS

• Avoid gas lines: During hurricane season keep your tank full, or at least 3/4 full • Have cash on hand, in case banks are closed and ATMs lose power • Have a phone charger that doesn’t require electricity • Have a printed list of important telephone numbers, including county emergency management office, evacuation sites, doctors, bank, area schools, veterinarian, etc.

• Have books and games available, to help pass the time

STOCK UP ON EMERGENCY SUPPLIES

• Water — one gallon for each person for three to seven days • Food — enough food for at least three to seven days. Nonperishable packaged or

FILE

Annette Rogers, of Land O’ Lakes, shovels sand to fill several sandbags at the self-service station set up by Pasco County, in the parking lot of the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The government agency set up several stations throughout the county, offering free sand and sandbags. Two years ago, Rogers’ property experienced minimal flooding during Hurricane Irma and she was taking no chances for this storm.

FILE

Plan how you will evacuate, in the event you are ordered to do so.

canned food and beverages, snack foods, juices. Supplies should include nonperishable foods that are easy to store and prepare, including protein bars, dried fruit, canned pastas, soups, canned tuna, peanut butter and jelly, crackers, raisins, beef jerky. Don’t forget the baby formula and baby food.

TOOLS/SUPPLIES

• Non-electric can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, plastic cups • Grill, cooking tools, fuel, charcoal • Hand tools, automotive repair tools • Duct tape and heavyweight garbage bags or plastic sheeting (for shelter-in-place) • A wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

PERSONAL COMFORT/HYGIENE/SANITATION

• Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags • Sunscreen, aloe, bug spray • Special items for babies, elders, persons with disabilities • Toiletries, hygiene items and sanitary wipes • Moist towelettes for sanitation • Garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

SAFETY

• Radio — battery-operated or handcranked radio, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather radio • Flashlight and batteries • Medications, a first-aid kit • Filter masks to protect your mouth and nose • A whistle to signal for help • Seasonal rain gear, sturdy shoes or boots

FILE

Pasco County didn’t feel the full fury of Hurricane Irma’s wrath, but some other communities were less fortunate.

PLAN FOR YOUR PETS

• Your pet emergency kit should include: Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or a carrier; pet food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter, a litter pan; pet health records, current photos of your pets, in case they get lost; pet beds and toys.

DURING THE STORM WHEN SHELTERING IN PLACE

• Close all interior doors. Secure and brace exterior doors.Take refuge in a small interior closet, or hallway on the lowest level. Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.

• Fill bathtubs or buckets with water to use for cleaning and toilet flushing.

• Stay away from windows and glass doors.

• Don’t be fooled by a lull in the storm. It could be the eye of the storm and the winds could resume.

AFTER THE STORM

• Do not drive into water when you can’t see the bottom of the road; you could drown.

• Do not walk through flooded areas, fastmoving water could carry you away.Also, the

water could be contaminated with oil, gasoline, raw sewage and other contaminants. It also may be electrically charged from a downed wire.

• Be careful about the foods you eat. If the power is out for a prolonged period, your food may have spoiled.

• Do not burn charcoal in your house or garage, the fumes can be deadly.

• Do not use gas-powered generators indoors or in a garage, the exhaust can be lethal.

• If you’re using a generator, do not plug it into a building’s wiring. This can cause generator back feed, which is extremely dangerous for utility workers and for anyone in the public who comes into contact with a downed electrical wire.

• If you have been evacuated, do not return to your home until authorities tell you that it is safe to do so.

IF YOU HAVE DAMAGE

• Call your insurance agent.

• Take photos of the damage.

• Make emergency repairs to avoid more damage and keep receipts for tarps, lumber, etc.

• Use licensed contractors to make repairs. Be wary of potential scams.

Want swag, exclusive updates, amazing prizes, behind-the-scenes footage and much more?

The LAKER/Lutz NEWS

JOIN

reader #

SHIP

club

Sign up for free at: tinyurl.com/y74gjrf8

LOCAL WILDLIFE SPONSOR:

Facebook.com/ChuysTampa

813-948-2211

25750 Sierra Center Blvd.

Lutz, FL 33559

www.Chuys.com

Bandit has many hobbies Bandit is a 1-yearold Alaskan Malamute. His hobbies include chasing all of the birds out of the yard, digging in any hole he can find, devouring bones, and eating puppy ice cream on hot days.

Bandit lives with his proud owners, Kelly and Matt Toomey, in Wesley Chapel.

Popping up to say hello Ashley Hessbrook, of Wesley Chapel, spotted this frog hanging out on her fence on a beautiful afternoon.

PET OF THE WEEK FAMILIES RECEIVE A $30 GIFT CARD TO CHUY’S TEX MEX. Send us a picture and information on your favorite pet!

Write a short paragraph about why your pet is special along with a photo and mail to: Pet of the Week, c/o The Laker, P.O. Box 479, Lutz, FL 33548 or email to mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, ATTN: Pet of the Week PLEASE NOTE: OWNERS NAME AND ADDRESS MUST BE INCLUDED FOR YOUR PET TO BE CONSIDERED FOR PUBLICATION.

24416 State Road 54, Lutz 33559 • 813-428-6994 At the corner of SR 54 and Oak Grove Boulevard

info@petpointanimalhospital.com • www.petpointanimalhospital.com Open Monday-Friday 8am-6pm • Saturday 8am-4pm • VACCINE HOURS: WEDNESDAY 2-4

PREVENTIVE CARE • MEDICINE • SURGERY • DIGITAL X-RAY • DENTAL CLEANING WALK-INS WELCOME

New Clients Receive a

ASK US ABOUT OUR AFFORDABLE WELLNESS PLANS

$29 EXAM One per client, discounted multi-pet exam for second pet Call Now & mention PROMO EXAM

813-428-6994 Dr. Moses Kawalya, DVM, DABVP (Board Certified by the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners)

NEW! DROP OEFF CAR

PET PAWS PETS AND DRIVING

A pet that is not restrained properly can be seriously harmed or even killed if thrown from a vehicle.Airbags can go off and injure a pet in your lap, and in the event of an accident, an unrestrained pet can easily escape and run off if frightened.

Pet parents should find the safety restraint that is right for their pet.

Options include pet seat belts, pet car seats, travel crates and vehicle pet barriers.

A proper pet restraint, can take one more distraction away.

Distracted driving usually includes texting, eating, applying makeup, talking on the phone, or daydreaming. However, traveling with an unsecured pet is distracting too, and can be a dangerous one, according to TripsWithPets.com.

A recent poll of pet parents who often drive with their pets by TripsWithPets.com revealed that 60% of pet parents partake in unsafe distracted driving habits involving their pet.

Forty-two percent of respondents admitted to being distracted by their four-legged companions. And, 77% said they do not secure their pet in the vehicle.

According to the poll, drivers were petting their dogs, putting them in their laps, and checking the mirrors or turning around to check on the pet.

Twenty-five percent of drivers even snapped pictures with their dogs while driving.

Properly securing your pet in the vehicle is not only about alleviating a potential driving distraction, but it also is a proactive approach should there be an accident or sudden stop.

NEW LOCATION

RESOURCE CENTER RENAMED

The Hillsborough County Commission voted unanimously to rename the Pet Resource Center, 440 N. Falkenburg Road, to the Michael S. Merrill Pet Resource Center.

Merrill has long championed the county’s commitment to animal welfare.

When Merrill took over as county administrator in 2010, the live-release rates at the county’s animal shelter were 50% for dogs and 13% for cats. Those numbers now are 95% for dogs and 88% for cats, according to a news release.

Merrill retired as county administrator on June 30.

When your pet can’t travel with you...

IN WESLEY CHAPEL!

KT’s Pet Park, Inc. INDOOR-OUTDOOR RUNS WITH A/C • DAYCARE • LODGING • TRAINING

1100 % O FF OFF Low cost spay/neuter, vaccines and wellness clinic

ANY SERVICE EXP. 7/31/20

S ST STATE TA TA AT TE O OF F THE THE A ART R RT T FACILITY FA F ACILIT TY Y WE’RE YOUR DO OG’S FAVORITE VA VACATION SPOT!

813-995-2275 • 10125 L AND O’ L AKES BL LV VD.

5709 Happy Tails Lane • Lutz, FL 33558

COME CHECK US OUT!

• Quality Pet Care • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Reliable and Trustworthy Caretakers

FREE Use of Dog Park 5-7pm

NEW Grooming Salon Now Open!

Only $20 for

HOURS: 9:30am – 2pm • Monday – Thursday www.plannedpethoodwc.com • 813-524-6400 33931 State Road 54 • Wesley Chapel, FL 33543

BUY 3 WEEKS, GET 1 FREE* IN THE ALL NEW PETCETERA DIRECTORY!

CALL RIGHT MEOW!

(813) 909-2800 The LAKER / Lutz NEWS

SPay & neuter clinic:

813-758-2393 Dog Boarding in a park-like setting

NO KENNELS OR CAGES !

OVER 3 ACRES OF LAND!!

7:30 am – 7 pm •••••••

Only $25 for All Day & Overnight •••••••

Only $10

for each additional dog!

FIRST VISIT IS FREE!

Treating gy your p petts like our own.

Ava ila

contact us for appointment: (includes pre-anesthetic exam, anesthesia, pain & antibiotic pre-medication)

24/ ble 7

cat neuter: $40 • cat spay: $50 • Dog neuter: $50-$95* • Dog spay: $60-$120* *Based on weight pets shoulD be healthy & not pregnant. must be current on rabies & Dhpp/Fvrcp vaccines.

vaccine clinic: monday-Friday 1 - 2 pm

(813)

949-4416

21515 village laKes shopping center

lanD o’laKes monDay-FriDay 8 am - 6 pm saturDay 8 am - 2 pm

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY includes brief exam prior to vaccinating. consult is add’l $60 available by appt.

• • • • • •

rabies 1 yr $15.00 Feline leukemia 2 yr $25.00 Feline distemper combo 3 yr $30.00 rabies 3 yr $30.00 canine distemper combo 3 yr $30.00 Bordetella/Kennel cough $18.00

oPen For wellneSS and medical care Following Strict covid-19 Protocol: • home delivery available for medications and food • owners stay outside in their vehicle • our staff picks up your pet at the curb

FAMIL A LY Y-OWNED & OPERATED

(813) 78 88-3065 www w.FaithfulFriend dsCremation.com

U Dirty Dog PEt GRoomiNG

813-948-2400 Cats Welcome

Due to high call volume, please text us at 813-803-2441 www.gentlecarepethospital.com • Facebook.com/gentlecare Pet Hospital 2B

July 1, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

19025 US HWY 41 N • Lutz

FREE Nail Grind with any groom

X-TRA DISCOUNT DRUGS

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY TAX COLLECTOR’S OFFICE

CARES Pet Project

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano announced that $8,000 was raised for the office’s May charity of the month. The funds were allocated to the CARES (Community Aging & Retirement Services) Pet Project, which was created to help feed and support the animals that are often the only companions of older members in the community. From left: Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano; Steven Spina, CARES board chair; and Mike Neumann, CARES chief financial officer.

We are actively recruiting individuals for paid positions forr the

great Prices • excellent Service • friendly Smiles • Easy Script Transfer • Medicare Acccredited • Convenient Drive- Thru Service • Free Bloodd Pressure Check • Vaccinations i ti • FFree D Deliver li y–Better B tt th thaan Curbside

Safe, Social diSt ta anc cing

2020 Election Cycle C Infrared, no-touch forehead thermometers

Washable a , locally made masks

just $60

just $5

PILL PA P ACKS by the Day and Week

www.xt rADIscountDrugs s.coM 6953 gall Boulevard • Zephyrhills Z corner of gall Blvd/US 301 and daughtery Rd

813-7 788-7885

Russell Adams Realty, Inc. 2502 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Corner of Carson Rd. & US 41

949-3603 • www.russelladamsrealty.com

Bringing experience in real estate over 40 years!

HOMES FOR SALE

Enjoy Public Service? Not Sure Iff Y Yo ou Qualify?

Meet the following requireMent ts: • • • • • • •

Pasco County resident registered voter internet access Complete an initial orientation Complete mandatory training sessions prio or to each election Ablle to commit to work entir ti e ellecti tion Day D quipment Ability to sit, stand, stoop and lift voting eq (with help) weighing approximately 30 lbs • Adequate vision, hearing, and manual and physical dexterity

Apply on-line at www.Pasco oVotes.gov We are actively recruiting bi-linguall individuals

For more information: www.PasccoV Vo otes.gov (pollworkers tab) or call the Elections’ Office: 1-800 0-851-8754 Brian E. Corely Supervisor of Elections Pasco Countyy

NO CDD - NO HOA 3 Bed/2Bath home Lake Padgett Estates - Completely Remodeled. Worry free granite counters and tile floors! Plenty of room to add a pool or detached family quarters. Bring the Boat and the Horse - This Home is part of Lake Padgett Estates giving you access to 3 ski lakes. Amenities include access to Lake Padgett 200 Acres, Lake Saxon 87 Acres, Lake Joyce 25 Acre fishing lake and East Lake 100 Acres. Each lake has its own private park with boat ramps. Horse riding stables and tennis courts.

Come be a part of the annual Boat and golf cart parades. BONUS - NEW ROOF - New Bath Rooms and Kitchen - All Tile! Call Cody at 813-909-0712 HUNTER’S GREEN CONDO Lovely 2 bedroom, 1 bath condo only minutes from Wiregrass Mall and Tampa Premium Outlets in gated community. Building 600 is at front of complex! Open floor plan greets you at the front door. Master bedroom has walk-in closet and spacious bathroom featuring a Jacuzzi tub and separate shower. Screened lanai. Community features: golf, fitness center, pool, tennis courts, and playground. Nearby hospitals, restaurants, schools along with easy access to I-75 and I-275 make this a desirable area of Tampa Bay to live in. Call Cody at 813-909-0712 HERITAGE HARBOR 3/2/2 on golf course. Gated, clubhouse with all amenities including tennis, playground and resort style pool. Screened Lanai overlooking hole #17. A/C is 2 years old and roof only 3 months old. Excellent school district. $332,400. Call Irving at 813-843-6026

RENTALS JADE AT TAMPA PALMS 2/2 Great Location, Washer and Dryer, Condo includes access to Clubhouse swimming pool, fitness center, and racket ball and tennis courts. Close to USF and VA Hospital and easy access to I-75. Call Ivan at 813-451-4041

ASBEL CREEK 3/2/2 Great Pool Home with screend lanai in Asbel Creek. All appliances and inside utility room. Large fenced corner lot. Community playground with volleyball and basketball, picnic tables. Excellent school district. GREAT POOL HOME WITH SCREENED LANAI IN ASBEL CREEK. ALL APPLIANCES AND INSIDE UTILIY ROOM. LA FENCED CORNER LOT. COMMUNITY PLAYROUND WITH VOLLEYBALL AND BASKETBALL, PICNIC TABLES. EXCELLENT SCHOOL DISTRICT. Call Irving at 813-843-60261

LAKE LOTS JUST REDUCED!! 2.44 ACRE FISHING LAKE LOT zoned ASC-1 with 308' road frontage and 290' depth in Lutz on Newberger Road. No CDD or HOA fees like the mansions across the street, so bring your toys and enjoy country living, but be at the Outlet Mall in 10 minutes! Call Faith Garcia 813-503-6610

VACANT PROPERTY 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 SPRING HILL - 31.28 Acres on Bowman Rd Your dream home is waiting to be built! Bring your horses and cows! Plenty of room for all your dreams. Close to Suncoast Parkway. Call Cody at 813-909-0712 WEEKI WACHEE Beautiful WATERFRONT property! Build here and watch the sunset over the water right from your own piece of paradise. Call Stacy at 813-842-3077 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 813909-0712

STOP AND VISIT OUR OFFICE…AGENTS ON DUTY!

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS WORD SEARCH & SUDOKU BROCADE CAKE CHRYSANTHEMUM CRACKLING RAIN CROSSETTE DAHLIA FALLING LEAVES FARFALLE

FIREWORKS FISH FLARES GLITTERING MINE PATTERN PEONY PISTIL

ROMAN CANDLE SALUTE SHELL SPIDER STROBE TAILS TOURBILLON WATERFALL SEE SOLUTIONS, PAGE 5B

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!

www.LakerLutzNews.com

July 1, 2020

3B

Best in Small Business 813-909-2800 • classifieds@lakerlutznews.com ALUMIN NUM

AIR CONDITIONING

CLEANING

STEVE’S ALUMINUM & SCREENING, LLC

“Fo For ALL Y Yoourr Scre reening Nee e ds.””

* 20% onffing

Julia Kerzner

a first clestomers

Owner

*new cu

813-401-1633 jbabes101@gmail.com

• Pool Enclosures • Sunrooms • Screen Rooms • Glass Rooms • Rescreening

KERZNER KLEANING Leaving houses klean and esh

Frree Esti timate tes • Lice censed ed & Insure red

727-847-6216

Licensed, bonded, and insured Guaranteed satisfied

CLEANING SERVICE

CLEANING SERVICE

advertising Lady L

WORKS

CLEANING SERVICE SERVING TAMPA BAY AREA, LUTZ, LAND O’ LAKES & WESLEY CHAPEL

FREE ESTIMATES

8 1 3 - 2 6 3 -7 9 6 6 MOVE-INS OR OUTS WEEKLY & BI-WEEKLY 30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE

in Best in Small Business TheLAKER / LutzNEWS

$20% OFF Must present coupon. Not to be combined with any other offers.

DRYWALL SPECIALIST NOT A HANDYMAN Repairing water damaged ceilings & walls.

Retexturing, Popcorn removal, Room Additions.

Cracks, holes, plaster, stucco repair & PAINTING.

JUNK REMOVAL

Cleaning done by Owner • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Free Estimates • No Contracts Required • Bonded 35 yrs experience • Open 24hrs/7 Days a week • Licensed & Insured

Bella Casa Cleaning Service

FREE ESTIMATES • AFFORDABLE, QUALITY WORK

Ask about the REFER A FRIEND program!

Commercial & Residental Cleaning

Call Ron 813-784-5999

727.485.5736

Now Accepting Credit Cards • State Certified SCC131149699 • We Keep Appointments

PEST CONTROL

PLUMBING

Proud to be locally owned & operated

Green Pest Control

Rodent Management

Residential

Termite Prevention

Commercial

Entry Point Repair Services

Wildlife Trapping

Lawn & Shrub Care

10% OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS

813-909-2800

First Time Cleaning DRYWALL SPECIALIST

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL

Residential & Commercial

Construction & Yard Debris, Appliances & Furniture, House Clutter & Hoarder Houses

YOU NAME IT, WE'LL REMOVE IT!

$10 Off $25 Off YOUR 1ST REMOVAL

A FULL LOAD!

*Not to be combined with any other discount or coupon

*Not to be combined with any other discount or coupon

Call today for a free estimate! 727-401-9535 www.facebook.com/JunkJunkiesLLC #KeepingItClean PRESSURE WASHING

First Green Certified Indoor Pest Control Service FREE!

PRESSURE WASHING

& PAVER CLEANING/SEALING

UP TO $150.00 VALUE*

Tampa Bay Pro

It's Time to Go GREEN

PRESSURE WASHING, LLC FREE

*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY

DRIVEWAY AND SIDEWALKS

ESTIMATES!

www.nvirotect.com PLUMBING

69

$

UP TO 1000 SQ.FT. EXPIRES 7/31/20

ANYTIME PLUMBING OF CENTRAL FLORIDA, INC. Pasco/Hillsborough (813)

792-2264 • Pinellas (727) 822-1742

Certified Backflow Testing, Repair & Replacement 24 /7/365 • No Overtime • Flat Rate Pricing • Re-Pipes Hydro-Jetting • Sewer Replacement • Slab Leak Repair Drain Cleaning & Repairs • Sewer Inspection

$ FREE ESTIMATES www.PlumbingAnytime.com Lic # CFC1425923 • Bonded/Insured

75 off $30 off

ANY WATER HEATER INSTALLATION

ANY REPAIR with this ad

One time use, can not be combined with other coupons.

Expires 9/30/20

SCREENING

Residential Contractor Remodels • Additions • New Construction • Repair HONEST & DEPENDABLE • REFERENCES AVAILABLE Call Dan or Joi for all your home repairs

813.205.7190 Bonded • Licensed • Insured • Lic# CRC1328640

ROOFING

ROOFING

www.eliteroofingservices.com

More Neighborhoods

Imperial Roofing Contractor, Inc.

More Customers

Commercial/Industrial/Residential Lic# CCC1325569

Licensed • Insured State Cert. #CCC 029597

SPECIALIZING IN ALL TYPES OF ROOFING

FREE

NO OBLIGATION ESTIMATE

(813) 630-0800

EXTERIOR HOME SANITIZING!

• Low Pressure Home & Roof Cleaning • Driveways & Walkways/Clean Gutters • Vinyl Fences/Painting/Mobile Homes • Pool Deck, Screen Enclosures & Patios • Pool Deck Painting & Coating

813-892-0738 PRINTER REP PA AIR

Print D Doctor MD REPAIR R & MAINTENANCE 813 3--748-4354

COMMER RCIA AL SERVICES

• Printerss, Copiers, C & Fax Machines • On-sitte diagnostics d and repair • Service contracts • Rem man nufactured toner cartridges • Inv I ven ntory management • TTech h support available

RESIDENTIAL CONTRACTOR

ON THE LEVEL, INC.

got roof?

LICENSED & INSURED • RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

FREE ESTIMATES Call Ron, Chris, Ronnie & Jason

813-996-2773

ROOFING

CARL MARTIN

ROOFING

July 1, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com

FREE

Estimates

specializing in reroofs & repairs FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1972

Guaranteed Roof Repairs

813-977-0066 TREE SERVICE FREE

ESTIMATES

Best in Small Business Directory

70,000 READERS Ads begin at just $50/wk

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS (813) 909-2800

Certified Arborist • Lic & Work Comp Insured

TREE REMOVAL • TREE TRIMMING • STUMP GRINDING

813-265-3224

Support your local small businesses!

4B

licensed • bonded • insured CCC 1325565

Send business news to news@lakerlutznews.com

BUSINESS INCUBATOR COMING

The Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) has announced it will open a new SMARTstart Entrepreneur Center, with a business incubator, this fall at The Grove in Wesley Chapel.

Plans for the center include 10 private offices, 32 dedicated desks, a coworking lounge, huddle rooms, an executive board room, a digital media studio, and classroom and meeting space. SMARTstart members also will have access to additional entre-

preneur support organizations that help small businesses start and grow. Pasco County food entrepreneurs will be able to participate in a pop-up shop at KRATE, a unique shipping container development on site at The Grove. This will be Pasco EDC’s third entrepreneur center in Pasco County.

For more information, visit PascoEDC.com.

BEWARE OF SCAMS

A new study by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) states that nearly three-quarters of those who lose money to employment scams are already in financial crisis, and do not have enough income to cover their monthly bills, according to a news release from the BBB. Also, more than half of people targeted by employment scams (53%) reported

being unemployed at the time of the encounter, the release says.

More than half of the scam targets were seeking work-from-home opportunities, according to Melisa Lanning Trumpower, executive director of the BBB Institute for Marketplace Trust, which produced the report.

The Employment Scams Report examines findings from an April 2020 survey of 10,670 U.S. and Canadian consumers reporting employment scams to the BBB Scam Tracker. One surprising finding is that 65% of consumers reported that their “job offer” was related to becoming a “warehouse redistribution coordinator” or some similar titles involving the reshipment of packages (which often involves stolen goods).

In many cases, these scammers impersonated well-known retailers like Amazon and Walmart to seem legitimate, posting jobs

on major online employment platforms with few prerequisites or requirements, the BBB reports.

Those most at risk for employment scams are students and individuals ages 25 to 34, who were more susceptible and likely to be victimized, and those ages 45 to 54 and 65-plus, who reported higher median dollar losses, the BBB says.

Military spouses and veterans also were more likely to fall victim than non-military consumers, and reported losing significantly more money to employment scams.

“Employment scams don’t just affect those who lose money. For every victim who lost money, at least one other worked without pay, and yet another lost personal information that could lead to identity theft,”Trumpower said.

For tips on how to avoid employment scams, visit BBB.org/EmploymentScams.

Classifieds 813-909-2800 • classifieds@lakerlutznews.com

GENERAL EMPLOYMENT

GENERAL EMPLOYMENT

Now Hiring

MEDICAL / DENTAL

WANTS TO purchASe

STOP TAKING PILLS Get Your Medical Marijuana Card fast & easy!

minerals and other oil &

We are an Authorized Factory EZGO Dealer seeking Experienced Golf Cart Technician.

Candidate must have experience in diagnosing and repairing gas and electric golf carts.

• Must have own tools • Great Benefits • Starting Salary $18 hour • Sign on Bonus $1000.00* must complete 90-day probation period • Full Time Positions

gas interests. Send

Pest Control Service Technicians $35-$50K base + comm.

Termite Division Head $50 -$60K base + comm.

Experience preferred.

Valid Driver’s License, screening and drug test required.

CARTS UNLIMITED 5131 Gall Blvd • Zephyrhills FL 33542 • 813-783-9371 '!-% 0!'% !.37%23

Denver, Co 80201

Call Now! 813-756-0091 or visit cmmdr.com

(u)

FOR SALE

Walk-In Tubs

WALK-IN BATHTUB SALE! SAVE $1,500

Email resumes to:

Backed by American Standard’s 140 years of experience Ultra low entry for easy entering & exiting Patented Quick Drain® Technology Lifetime Warranty on the bath AND installation, INCLUDING labor backed by American Standard 44 Hydrotherapy jets for an invigorating massage

sales@nvirotect.com '!-% 0!'% !.37%23

HELP WANTED

Golf Cart Mechanic

Full-time, M-F, competitive pay.

Golf cart experience preferred.

Work close to home at our family business in Land O’ Lakes.

Contact us for a FREE EVALUATION

details to P.O. Box 13557,

Wildlife Division Specialist $50 -$60K base + comm.

Applicants must apply in person and make contact with Leslie Hawthorne

GENERAL EMPLOYMENT

WANTED

Limited Time Offer! Call Today!

FREE!

855-676-1571

Savings Include an American Standard Right Height Toilet FREE! ($500 Value)

Call Bob at 813-996-6500 HOMES FOR SALE

FOR SALE

Or visit: www.walkintubinfo.com/laker

FOR SALE

GET THE GRILLER’S BUNDLE

INTRODUCTORY PRICE: $7999 4 (5 oz.) Butcher’s Cut Filet Mignon 4 (4 oz.) Boneless Pork Chops 4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers 4 (3 oz.) Gourmet Jumbo Franks 4 (2.8 oz.) Potatoes au Gratin 4 (4 oz.) Caramel Apple Tartlets Omaha Steaks Seasoning Packet

New and Used homes available in Arbor Oaks, a 55+ community located in beautiful Zephyrhills.

Limited Time 50% lot rent for 1 year with new home purchase Newby Realty 941-479-2849

$224.91* separately

Prepare for unexpected power outages with a Generac home standby generator SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME ASSESSMENT TODAY!

844-247-1931 + 4 MORE BURGERS FREE THAT’S 20 COURSES + SIDES & DESSERT!

Equal Housing Opportunity.

ORDER NOW! 1.813.755.1790

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!

Offer valid March 16, 2020 - July 12, 2020

ask for 63281EVN

www.OmahaSteaks.com/family649 *Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. Standard S&H applies. ©2020 Omaha Steaks, Inc. Exp. 10/31/20

Special Financing Available *Terms & Conditions Apply

Subject to Credit Approval

Get the word out in The Laker/Lutz News! BUY 3 WEEKS GET 1 FREE! Call 813-909-2800. visit www.GetGoldGeek.com m/cpf BBB A Plus Rated.. Request your 100 1 Percent FREE,, no risk,, no strings attacched appraisal kit.. Call todaayy! (m))

AUTOMOBILES A-1 DONA AT TE Y YO OUR CAR FOR BREAST CANCER! Help United Breast Foundation education,, prevention n& support programs. ograms. FAST FREE PIC PICKUP CKUP - 24 HR RESPONSE - T TA AX DEDUCTION 1-855-758-6966 (t) CASH FOR CARS! W Wee buy all cars! Junk, high-end,, totaled – it doesn’t matter! Get free towing and same daayy cash! NEWER MODELS too! Call 1-833-238-0340 (t) DONA AT TE Y YO OUR CAR OR TRUCK TO HERIT TA AGE FOR THE BLIND. Free 3 Daayy V Vaacation, T Taax Deductible, Free To T owing, All Paperwork T Taaken Care Of. CALL 1-855-972-5518 (m) Donate your car, r,, truck or van.. Help ZIXIVERW ½RH NSFW SV WXEVX E FYWMRIWW Call Patriotic Hearts Foundation.. Fast, FREE pick-up. Max tax-deduction.

Operators are standing by! Call 1-833909-0926 (m)

FINANCIAL %XXIRXMSR EPP LSQIS[RIVW MR NISTEVH] of Foreclosure? W Wee can help stop your home from fo foreclosure. The Foreclosure Deffeense helpline can help saavve your home. The Call is absolutely free.

1-844-250-5850 (t) Haavve $10K In Debt? Credit Cards.

Medical Bills.. Personal Loans.. Be Debt Free in 24-48 Months.. Call NA AT TIONAL DEBT RELIEF! Know Y Yo our Options.. Get a FREE debt relief quote:: Call 1-877316-7129 (m) Need some cash! Sell us your unwantIH KSPH NI[IPV]] [EXGLIW HMEQSRHW Call GOLD GEEK 1-877-330-2105 or

Weesley Financial Group, LLC W C. Timeshare Cancellation Experts.. Ov O er $50,000,000 in timeshare debt and fe fees cancelled in 2019.. Get free innffo ormational package and learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free conssultations.

Over 450 positive reviews. s. C Call 844405-1099 (m)

FOR SALE GENERAC Standby Generators. tors. The weather is increasingly unpredictable.

Be prepared fo for power outages. ges.. FREE 7-year extended warranty ($695 $695 n-home value!) Schedule your FREE in-home assessment todaayy. Call 1-855-708-4101.

7TIGMEP ½RERGMRK JJS SV UYEPM½IH GYWXSQers.. (m) MRCOOL DIY Ductless Heat at Pump. )RIVK] IJJ½ ½GMIRX LIEXMRK GSSPMRK The only ductless system designed signed fo for amateur installation.. Simple ssetup. Install anywhere. 100% sealed systeem.. No special tools or training needed. ded. WiFi controls.. Call ffo or more inffo o! 1-855-8911058 (m)

HEAL LT TH & MEDICA AL DENT TA AL INSURANCE from m Physicians Mutual Insurance Company.. C Coverage ffo or 350 plus procedures.. Reaal dental MRWYVERGI ¯ 238 NYWX E HMWGSYRX TPER Don’t wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Inffo ormation Kit with all the details! 1-833-424-6043 www.dental50plus.com/cpf #6258 (m) Haavving men’s health issues? Thanks to science, ED can be optional. T Trry HIMS. Connect with a medical professional online. If approved,, your prescribed medication is delivered to your door.r.. FREE SRPMRI ZMWMX LXXT LMQWRS[ [ GSQ ¾E Q

HEARING AIDS!! Buy one/get one FREE! High-quality rechargeable Nano hearing aids priced 90% less than competitors.. Nearly invisible! 45-daayy money back guarantee! 1-877-378-1415 (t)

Become a published author! Publications WSPH EX EPP QENSV WIGYPEV WTIGMEPXX]] Christian bookstores.. CALL Christian Faith Publishing ffo or your FREE author submission kit.. 1-844-293-6611 (m)

Liffee Alert.. One press of a button sends help FAST, T,, 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS.. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.) CALL 877-354-1492 FREE Brochure. (m)

Become a Published Authorr.. W Wee want to Read Y Yo our Book! Dorrance Publishing-T Trrusted by Authors Since 1920.

Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed.. Call ffo or Free Author`s Guide 1-844-218-1247.. http://dorranGIMRJJS S GSQ ¾SVMHE Q

Lung Cancer? And Age 60+? Y Yo ou and =S = SYV *EQMP] 1EE]] &I )RXMXPIH XS 7MKRM½cant Cash A Aw ward.. Call 1-855-635-9214 ffo or Information. fo . No Risk.. No Money Out of Pocket.. (t) Portable Oxygen Concentrator Maayy Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free inffo ormation kit!

Call 855-397-7056 (m) Recently Diagnosed w/Lung Cancer or Mesothelioma? Exposed to Asbestos Pre1980 at W Wo ork or Naavvy? Y Yo ou Maayy Be EntiXPIH XS E 7MKRM½GERX 'EWL %[EVH 7QSOMRK History Okaayy! Call 1-888-789-0415 (t) Staayy in your home longer with an American Standard W Waalk-In Bathtub.

Receive up to $1,500 off,, including a free toilet,, and a liffeetime warranty on the tub and installation! Call us at 1-877-583-3563 or visit www.walkintubquote.com/cpf (m) VIAGRA & CIALIS! 60 pills ffo or $99.. 100 pills ill ffo or $150. $150. FREE ship hipping. i . Mone M y back guaranteed! 1-855--457-9751 (t)

MISCELLANEOU US AT A T&T Internet.. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo agmt.. Includes 1 TB of data per month.. Get Mo ore For Y Yo our High-Speed Internet Thiing. Ask us how to bundle and SA AV VE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. Call us todaayy 1-877568-5045.. (m)

DISH Network.. $59.99 ffo or 190 Channels! Blazing Fast Internet,, $19.99/mo. (where aavvailable.) Switch & Get a FREE $100 Visa Gift Card. FREE V Vo oice Remote. FREE HD DVR.. FREE Streaming on ALL Devices.. Call todaayy! 1-855-8957245 (m) DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet.. Free Installation,, Smart HD DVR Included,, Free Vo V oice Remote. Some restrictions apply.

1-855-340-3064 (t) Earthlink High Speed Internet. As 0S[ %W QSRXL JJS SV XLI ½VWX 3 months.) Reliable High Speed Fiber Optic T Teechnology.. Stream Videos,, Music and More! Call Earthlink T To odaayy 1-877929-1176 (m) Eliminate gutter cleaning fo forever! LeafFilter, r,, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection.. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. ayy.. 15% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts.. Call 1-866-287-4769 (m) High-Speed Internet.W Wee instantly compare speed,, pricing,, aavvailability to ½RH XLI FIWX WIVZMGI JJS SV ]SYV RIIHW Starting at $39.99/month! Quickly compare offfeers from top providers.. Call 1-855-956-3567 (m) HughesNet Satellite Internet - 25mbps starting at $49.99/mo! Get More Data FREE Off-Peak Data.. FFA AST download

speeds. WiFi built in! FREE Standard Installation fo for leease customers! Limited Time, Call 1-855-485-4101 (m) Moving out of state in the next 30-60 daayys? Don’t geet takkeen for a ride! Moving APT offers a PRICE P MA AT TCH GUARANTEE and RISK FREE RESERVA RV VA AT TIONS. Carriers are all licensed and bonded.

Free quote! Caall 1-866-324-6215 (m) Need IRS Relieef $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Starrt or Forgiveness.. Call 1-855-908-24440 Mondaayy through Fridaayy 7AM-5PM PST T (t) SERIOUSLLY Y IN NJURED in an AUT TO O %''-()28# 0IX YW ½KLX JJS SV ]SY 3YV network has recovered millions fo for clients! Call to oday ay ffo or a FREE consultation! 1-866-3884-0971 (t)

SERVICES S/Miscellaneous COMPUTER ISSUES? GEEKS ON SITE provides FREEE diagnosis REMOTELLY Y 24/7 SER RV VICE DURING COVID19.

No home visitt necessary. $40 OFF with coupon 86407!

8 Restrictions apply.

1-855-993-41772) (t) Need Help witth Family Laaw w? Can’t Afffo ord a $50000 Retainer? https://www. familycourtdirect.com/?network=1 Yo ou Low Cost Legal Services - Paayy As Y Go - As low ass $750-$1500 - Get Legal Help Now! Caall 1-844-415-4092 MonFri 7am to 4pm m PST (t)

To placee an ad that will To reach 2.8 8 million readers througghout Florida, call the Florida Media Asssociation at 352--237-3409

www.LakerLutzNews.com

July 1, 2020

5B

Ridge Road construction moves forward

By Kathy Steele ksteele@lakerlutznews.com

By summer, motorists could take their first spins along the initial segment of the Ridge Road extension from Moon Lake Road/DeCubellis Road to Town Center Boulevard.

“We’re hoping we open that leg by the start of August, for the start of the school year,” said Sam Beneck, Pasco County’s property manager. “They are pulling out all the stops to get it done. It’s going to be a real challenge.”

The roadwork is expected to ease traffic for River Ridge high school and middle school along Town Center.

This short jog forward is the beginning of a two-phased road project, with a final completion date in 2025. By then, the approximately 8.6-mile extension of Ridge Road, from west to east, is expected to cross over Suncoast Parkway and come out at U.S. 41, opposite an entrance into the masterplanned community of Connerton in Land O’ Lakes.

Pasco County officials celebrated the kickoff to Ridge Road’s extension in January. It was the culmination of more than two decades of pushing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to issue a permit that would allow the new road to cut through sensitive environmental land in the Serenova Tract of the Starkey Wilderness Preserve.

For years, county officials identified the east/west route as an essential evacuation route during hurricanes and other emergencies. They expect it to take pressure off existing east/west routes of State Road 52 and State Road 54, and cut evacuation times down by hours. In addition, traffic capacity is expected to increase by 10%.

“It’s really to improve traffic capacity and east/west access to improve hurricane evacuations,” said Beneck.“We really, really see it as a significant evacuation improvement with multi-hour benefits in reaching our evacuation goal and traffic capacity.There was never another alternative that provided these benefits.”

Environmentalists suggest that the north/south route of U.S. 19 makes more sense for evacuations, and would avoid harm to the Serenova.

“We need to maintain our natural systems and forests to mitigate against climate change,” said Tim Martin, conversation chairman for the Sierra Club Florida.“We just need to leave our natural systems and keep our preserves preserved.”

Sierra Club Florida Conservation filed a

COURTESY OF PASCO COUNTY

This aerial view shows the area where Ridge Road construction will begin at Moon Lake in west Pasco County.

lawsuit against the Army Corps in February in the U.S. Middle District of Florida.

However, a judge denied an emergency injunction to stop the roadway. Pasco County, which is not a defendant in the lawsuit, was granted permission to intervene in the case.

The Sierra Club alleges that the Army Corps violated the National Environmental Policy Act and failed to adequately evaluate the harm to threatened and endangered species within the Serenova, and to their habitats and wetlands.

Martin said county taxpayers need to understand they could be the losers if the lawsuit is successful and Pasco is ordered to restore wetlands that the roadway is destroying.

Beneck said the county is sensitive to the impacts to the Serenova. County staff and the Fish and Wildlife Commission have provided guidance on mitigation efforts, including relocating gopher tortoises found on site.

The court date is pending.

When completed, the roadway through

the Serenova will have 16 bridges that cross over wetlands, and wildlife crossings at 15 of those bridges.

Landscaping and multi-use paths will be installed with nature overlooks that allow for relaxation and observation.

The total estimated cost of the project is more than $149 million, with the largest share – about $93.2 million – paying for phase one from Moon Lake to the Suncoast. Suncoast to Sunlake is estimated to cost about $12.7 million. Funding sources for the $44 million final segment from Sunlake to U.S. 41 are identified and will be budgeted in the fiscal year 2023, based on revenue estimates and projections, according to county officials.

The Florida Turnpike Authority will fund the new interchange at Ridge Road and the parkway.

The interchange and surrounding land are attracting new development.

H. Lee Moffit Cancer and Research Institute recently purchased about 775 acres for a future research hub near the interchange.

Lennar, which sold land to Moffitt, is proposing a master-planned community of Angeline, formerly Project Arthur, that would transform a former cattle ranch and pine plantation into a residential and commercial community.The property is located south of State Road 52 and east of Suncoast. Both Ridge Road and Sunlake Boulevard cut through the property.

Environmentalists say these types of projects are the true reason for extending Ridge Road.

“Now, it’s pretty obvious all along they had bigger plans for opening central Pasco,” said Martin.“A lot of this is bad growth and sprawl.”

One design change in Ridge Road could add as many as seven signalized intersections to the phase two, at-grade construction of roadway from Suncoast to Land O’ Lakes boulevard.

While this segment initially had limited access, county officials later designated it an arterial roadway in acknowledgement that private property owners might develop land adjacent to Ridge Road.

However, Beneck said Pasco planned for Ridge Road based on the county’s long-range comprehensive plan, not any specific development projects.“We really hadn’t heard of any development plans.”

It would be up to private developers to seek any necessary permits, he said.

“Private developers would be responsible for doing all of their own mitigation,” Beneck said.

Closer Look a n

a d v e r t i s e r

P r o f i l e

Three Generations of Cabinet Makers

By Kelli Carmack

Ever since he was a young child, Jerry Moates Jr. has been in the cabinet business. His father, Jerry Moates Sr., opened Statewide Custom Cabinets in 1972, and would bring his namesake with him to work whenever he could.

“I went on Saturdays and just hung out with him until he got off work,” said Jerry Jr., who is now the owner of the Zephyrhills cabinet shop.

And, when Jerry Jr. had children of his own, he continued his father’s tradition and brought his two sons to the shop. Today, Jerry III and Allen are grown, and work with their dad in the family business.

Statewide Custom Cabinets specializes in residential and commercial cabinets and surface top installations. The company offers free estimates, and it’s not unusual to see a customer the same day they call the office for a quote.

The company is very price competitive, especially compared to big box stores, because it also is a manufacturer, which is a rare thing to find today in the cabinet business.

“The benefit of being your own manufacturer is that you can build the way you want to ensure quality, and can build to a customer’s custom sizes,” said Jerry Jr. “Plus, our turnaround is faster, and depending on the size of a job, the demolition and installation process is usually just a day or two.”

Statewide Custom Cabinets recently opened a new showroom so customers can see and feel the different styles of cabinet and surface tops it sells. Because of social distancing, currently only one customer is allowed in the showroom at a time, and it is thoroughly sanitized before the next customer enters.

VISIT OUR WEBSIT TE OR CALL TO PLACE YOUR R ORDER!

813-803-7207 • WW WW.PAR A TYLIQUORSUP PERSTORE.COM Locally to your house in 1 hour or less. No minimum order o . $5 delivery fee.

WINE

One of the most popular cabinet styles that customers are buying is shaker-white, which has very simple, clean lines that looks great in kitchens, especially with light countertops.

For countertops, customers are choosing quartz, which is extremely durable, low-maintenance and easy to clean.

“Quartz is the best cabinet top you can get,” said Jerry Jr. “But, not everyone can afford quartz or granite, so we also offer high definition (HD) laminate, which gives the look of granite at the fraction of the cost.”

Laminate is dramatically different than what it used to be, explains Jerry Jr. “It is three to five times harder than the original laminate, plus it is scratch-resistant,” he said.

At the end of the day, giving exceptional customer service is the Moates family primary goal, and is why they have built cabinets for generations of the same family. And, it’s why Jerry Jr. and his sons always stay busy.

“One day we’re building something for a hospital, or it might be building for a doctor’s office, a dentist office, or a veterinarian office, and the day after that, we could be working in a mobile home,” said Jerry Jr. “It’s been a very rewarding business for me and my family.”

Josh Cabernet Sauvignon 750ml

$10.48

Coppola Claret 750ml

$11.48

Hello Kitty Cabernet Sauvignon 750ml

$6.99

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

Harken Chardonnay 750ml

Matua Sauvignon Blanc 750ml

Yellowtail All Types y 1.5 LT

$8.48

$7.98

$7.98

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

*Must present coupon. Limit 2 bottles per customer. Exp. 7/7/20.

IQUOR

1.75 LT

1.75 LT

SEAGRAM'S VODKA $

1098

15% OFF O ANY CIGAR PUR RCHASE

NO FURTTHER DISCOUNT ALLOWED ON ANY PRODUCT THA ATT ENDS IN 8.

COUPONS CAN NOT BE USED ON ANY PRODUCT THA ATT ENDS IN 8.

1.75 LT

RAIN VODKA

MARGARITA AVILLE V TEQUILA

1498

$

$

1698

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

HOU UR RS OF RS OF OPERATION: OP O PE ER RA R ATION ON N:: MON MO ON N - THURS TH U UR RS 9AM RS 9AM 9A AM TO TO 10PM 10 1 0P 0 PM P M HOURS FRI RI & SAT SA S AT 9AM 9A 9A AM M TO TO 12AM 12AM 2A 2A AM M • SUN SUN 11AM 11A AM M TO TO 10PM 10P PM M FRI

2410 lANd lANd o’ o’ lAKes lAKes blVd blVd • lANd lANd o’ o’ lAKes, lAKes, fl fl 2410 on the the corner corner of of sr sr 54 54 and and us us 41 41 on

WWW WW WW.P .PART TY YLIQU YL QUORS RSUPER RS ST S TORE ORE. E.COM WWW.PARTYLIQUORSUPERSTORE.COM SWCustomCabinets.com facebook.com/statewidecustomcabinets

813-803-7207 813-803-7207 Prices good through 7/7/20. Not resPoNsibl le for misPriNts.

6B

July 1, 2020

www.LakerLutzNews.com