The Laker-East Pasco-December 15, 2021

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Let Us Do Good Village breaks ground

The new community in Land O’ Lakes will be the first of its kind in the nation

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

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DECEMBER 15, 2021

The patriotism was palpable at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Let Us Do Good Village, a first-of-its kind community in the nation — where mortgage-free homes will be provided for catastrophically injured

veterans, and for surviving widows and small children of fallen members of the military and first responders.

The subdivision of more than 100 homes is planned off Parkway Boulevard, in Land O’ Lakes, on 75 acres donated by the Esther and Harold Mertz Foundation to the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Tunnel to Towers, established 20 years ago after Stephen Siller perished on Sept.

11, 2001, will provide the mortgage-free homes.

“The Tunnel to Towers Foundation was

started in memory of Stephen Siller, a New York City firefighter who laid down his life while saving others on Sept. 11, 2001,” said Bradley Blakeman, who served as master of ceremonies for the groundbreaking event.

“Stephen, with 60 pounds of gear strapped to his back, raced by foot through the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel to the Twin Towers, where he gave his life, saving others,” he said.

Blakeman was working on the White See VILLAGE, page 9A

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After decades of waiting, Ridge Road extension to open this month

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

It has been more than two decades in the making — but the first segment of the Ridge Road extension is expected to open this month.

Don’t expect great fanfare to accompany that opening, though.

“The plan is, the second it can open to traffic, it will open to traffic, and we will have a big event at some point, after that day,” Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles told the Pasco County Commission on Dec. 7.

“Now, we may do some kind of small parade that day, but nothing big,” Biles added.

Biles explained that he’s not going to delay opening the road simply to schedule a celebration. It takes time for those things because it involves coordinating “a ton of different calendars,” he added.

The first leg of the extension will carry traffic from Moon Lake Road in New Port Richey to the Suncoast Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

The second leg, which is slated for completion in 2025, will extend Ridge Road to U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes.

The completion date for the second leg might be accelerated, if the Florida Legislature provides additional funding for the project.

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore recently announced that he had asked State Rep. Ardian Zika and State Sen. Ed Hooper to sponsor legislation seeking $14 million for the project, adding they both have agreed to do so.

County officials have pushed for the extension for decades, justifying the need for it to provide an additional eastwest hurricane evacuation route.

The new 9-mile extension, once completed to U.S. 41, also will relieve traffic on State Road 52 and State Road 54, the only two through east-west roads that carry traffic across the county.

The extension also will support the area’s burgeoning growth.

A huge development known as the Angeline community will be rising on thousands of acres, south of State Road 52 and west of U.S. 41.

See RIDGE ROAD, page 9A

B HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS INSIDE, PAGE 1B

FRED BELLET

Tunnel to Towers Foundation Chairman and CEO Frank Siller expressed gratitude for the work that’s already been done and encouraged everyone to do what they can in the quest to thank the families of those who have given up their lives, or sacrificed their bodies in order to keep others safe.

Tunnel to Towers Foundation supporter Jim McKiernan, of Spring Hill, was among the many flag-toting motorcyclists who welcomed event-goers as they disembarked from shuttle buses.

Disabled veteran Bret Jacob Menard received some unexpected news that he will be a Tunnel to Towers beneficiary.

Menard’s life coach and friend, Gil D’Amore, of Dade City, left, lifts Menard’s arm in thanks. Menard’s father Bret Menard, of New Tampa, right, applauds the announcement.

Redevelopment projects are making progress

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

Efforts are continuing on several projects being spearheaded by the Zephyrhills Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

Gail Hamilton, the director of the CRA, served up several updates on projects during a monthly November meeting at Zephyrhills City Hall.

For instance, CRA staffers are continuing to work with firms Furr, Wegman & Banks P.A., and BGE Inc., on the design of the “Little But Loud” downtown entertainment backyard hub, Hamilton said.

Staffers also are soliciting help from Main Street Zephyrhills Inc.’s design committee to review various proposals and criteria, she said.

The venue — to be developed on a 150foot by 60-foot city-owned vacant lot at the corner of Sixth Avenue and Eighth Street — is expected to feature food trucks, vendor carts, games, live music, public art installations and various seating areas.

A more specific concept plan, with pictures, is expected to be presented at the Dec. 27 meeting.

That will give the board an opportunity to “see what we’ve been working on,” Hamilton said.

The venue site was once home to a Disabled American Veterans chapter building, and is situated just a block north of Fifth Avenue and adjacent to City Hall.

Hamilton also updated the board on

work being done for the Hercules Park redevelopment project.

She said survey crews are expected to wrap up their duties for the park redevelopment project by Dec. 20, paving way for the design process to begin in early 2022.

The 12-acre park property is located at the corner of County Road 54 and Gall Boulevard. It’s expected to feature a multipurpose trail, playfield, nature playground and picnic area, among other elements.

Also, the CRA director mentioned security cameras will be installed in Clock Plaza along Fifth Avenue, before the end of this year.

Clock Plaza — situated two blocks east of U.S. 301 in the city’s historic downtown district — is patterned after an old-fashioned town square that features a gazebo-style bandstand, a decorative clock, landscaping, and downtown parking.

This half-acre park features picnic tables nestled underneath shady oak trees.

The bandstand is used throughout the year for live entertainment during Main

Street events, parades, and other social activities.

That location is expected to be just the first of several where cameras will be installed.

“We’ve been working with the police department to identify locations they’d like to have cameras,” Hamilton said.

“The feed will go directly to the police department so they can see it in realtime.”

Hamilton also carved time out to praise Main Street Zephyrhills Director Faith Wilson and a new Main Street Board of Directors for helping facilitate downtown events, including Halloween Howl and the Festival of Lights Christmas Parade.

Wilson — hired in June — replaced Paxton McCullough, who held the role from June 2020 to May 2021. Before that, the Main Street leadership role was held by Anna Stutzriem, who resigned in March 2020 after more than two years on the post.

“They have worked incredibly hard,” Hamilton said of the Main Street staff and volunteers.“Last year, because of COVID, we had no events.We have a board that’s never done any events; they’re all new and have never done anything…but the Main Street board members and their committee members have really worked hard, gotten together, have figured out what needs to be done…”

The Oct. 30 Halloween Howl reported strong attendance. It also had 60 vendors, See PROGRESS, page 9A

Higher density approved on 30 acres near Zephyrhills

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a land use change that will allow greater density on about 30 acres near Zephyrhills.

The change increases the allowable density from three units per acre to six units per acre and lays the groundwork for a future rezoning.

The rezoning, which is being pursued, will accommodate the expansion of the Forest Lakes Estates community, a 1,000home manufactured housing community for people age 55 and older.

Clarke Hobby, an attorney representing Equity Lifestyles, said his client owns the existing 1,000-unit manufactured housing community, which is on the east side of Gateway Drive, and wants to add about 90 additional units on the 30-acre property, on the west side of Gateway Drive, south of County Road 54.

During the Dec. 7 county board meeting, Hobby said the land use change makes sense.

“There’s Res-6 across County Road 54 from us, and there’s a large swath of I-L (light industrial) that’s immediately to our west. So we don’t feel that the change from Res-3 to Res-6 is a big issue, from a land use planning perspective.”

Hobby also told board members: “Gateway Drive runs from County Road 54 down through the eastern part of the project.

“Our plan is to swap right of way and build the neighbors a new road on our western side, so we’ll be able to ultimately join our projects, and we’ve agreed, in a private agreement to — in addition to that, at our own costs, to give our neighbors enough money to resurface the entirety of Marx Avenue and Frontier Drive to the south, which approximately is a mile or so, in addition.

“So, my client has made a big commitment to help with the betterment of this area,” he said.

Area resident Cindi Buckel objected to

the change.

She urged commissioners to reject the request, citing concerns about area traffic and increasing traffic fatalities, as the county continues to allow new subdivisions along two-lane roads.

She also noted the difficulty motorists face, as they attempt to get around in an area that’s growing increasingly congested.

“The roads have not been looked at, as the subdivisions just keep growing, and growing and growing,” Buckel said.

She noted it already takes a long time — even without the new houses — to get out onto County Road 54, from Gateway.

“You have construction trucks, nonstop, heading in both directions towards Polk, towards Zephyrhills,” she said, while also noting a double fatality accident that recently occurred — involving a construction truck and a RAV-4 on Chancey Road.

Commissioner Ron Oakley applauded the developer’s plan to build the additional road.

“The real bonus was when they decided to build a new road for the residents behind it. It keeps from splitting that park up and it joins it together.And it makes it a lot better for the residents that are on larger tracts, right in behind them,” Oakley said.

Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey asked if the new development would have landscaping requirements.

Hobby said it will.

Hobby also noted that County Road 54 has been rated at a Level of Service B. The land use change was approved on a 5-0 vote.

In a separate action, related to the same property, the county board has set a public hearing for Jan. 11 at 1:30 p.m., to consider the advisability of closing a portion of Gateway Drive, from County Road 54 to Marx Avenue.

Hobby’s client has proposed constructing a new alignment to connect County Road 54 to Frontier Drive, which then connects to Marx Avenue, and, upon completion of the Frontier Drive Extension, to exchange the newly constructed Frontier Drive Extension with the Gateway Drive parcels.

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Webinar sheds light on human trafficking

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutnews.com

While the COVID-19 pandemic captures headlines, human trafficking is a societal crisis that’s often hidden in the shadows, according to public safety experts.

Human trafficking occurs when one human exploits another human being, for a commercial purpose. Often described as “modern day slavery,” it involves traffickers using force, fraud or coercion to recruit, transport, transfer or harbor people.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates there are about 40 million human trafficking victims globally.

COURTESY OF POLARIS PROJECT That figure may be conservative, though, This heat map reflects the number of calls made to the U.S. National Human Trafficking as other groups have pegged the number Hotline in 2020.

This map only reflects cases where the location of potential trafficking was closer to 60 million victims, said retired known.

Some cases may involve more than one location.

Pasco Sheriff’s Cpl.Alan Wilkett, an expert in the study of human trafficking.

The statistics are staggering and the per- Year from then Florida Attorney General Girls are featured in the overwhelming sonal costs enormous.

Pam Bondi. majority of CSAM, while prepubescent chil“When you talk about those numbers (of Commercial sex trafficking and labor traf- dren are at the greatest risk to be depicted victims), every single one of those is a ficking are the predominant forms of human — through explicit drawings, pictures or human being,”Wilkett said.“A human being trafficking, but there are 20 different forms, videos,Wilkett said. with a heart, a mind, with In 2020, there were more than 21.7 milWilkett said. Others include dreams, hopes, ambitions. They forced marriage, involuntary servi- lion reports of CSAM across digital platforms dreamed of being something, to the National Center for Missing & tude, and domestic servitude. whatever that something was for Wilkett’s talk centered on Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) CyberTipline. them.”

Of that, over 20 million reports came commercial sex trafficking, which Wilkett was the featured involves exchanging a sex act for from Facebook alone.

Google reported 546,704; Snapchat, speaker on a Dec. 7 webinar presomething of commercial value, sented by the Pasco Sheriff’s 144,095;Twitter, 65,062; and TikTok, 22,692. such as money, drugs or shelter.

While noting Facebook has reported imOffice, Florida’s Forensic Institute America is regarded as a “topfor Research, Security & Tactics, tier consuming country” — in mense numbers, Wilkett is skeptical about and Saint Leo University’s departterms of human trafficking for sex the accuracy of the reporting by the other applications. ment of public safety and labor, he said.

“Twenty million from Facebook, and you administration.

States reporting the greatest Alan Wilkett The webinar — “Human number of cases are California, only have 144,000 from Snapchat.

Seriously?”Wilkett said.

Trafficking: How does it affect Texas and Florida, he said.

He took Big Tech to task for contributing your community?”— was facilitated by Dr. Areas particularly at-risk are the eastern Karin May, an assistant professor for the de- and western seaboard, and borders along the to the problem and said it’s time for them to partment of criminal justice at Saint Leo. Gulf of Mexico. And, sex trafficking is pre- be held accountable.

She chairs the Mel Greene Institute for dominant in larger cities, via strip clubs, the Prevention of Human Trafficking. brothels and illicit massage businesses, he TRAFFICKERS ALTERING TACTICS The expert on human trafficking also deHuman trafficking, May said, is “a public added. health issue that impacts individuals, families Hot spots in Florida include Miami, tailed shifts in the ways that predators and communities.”

Orlando, Jacksonville, Fort Myers/Naples and groom, recruit and traffick adults and chilThe impacts are widespread, she said.“It’s the Tampa Bay region, he said, based on the dren.

Some statistics estimate that 60% of all not just international. It’s here, and it’s in our volume of calls made to the U.S. National trafficking happens online, but Wilkett suscommunities.”

Human Trafficking Hotline. pects that figure is low.

Wilkett spent 25 years in law enforce“Predators want to be where the kids ment, including the past several focused on BEWARE OF DIGITAL GATEWAYS fighting human trafficking. He was comAn alarming revelation shared during the are,” he said, noting that means they want to mander of the Pasco County Human webinar involves the pervasive presence of be on social media, apps, and gaming sysTrafficking Task Force.

Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) that is tems.

Previously, predators primarily targeted In 2017, he received the Florida Human being discovered on social media outlets playgrounds, malls, and bus stops, he said.

Trafficking Law Enforcement Official of the and other electronic service providers.

Those remain threat environments, he said, but added:“If the kids are hanging out online, that’s exactly where the predators are going to be.”

Wilkett said parents and guardians need to know about encrypted messaging systems and vault apps that children may have on their smartphones or other devices, to hide certain material, conversations and contacts.

There are many of these apps, he said, while specifically mentioning WhatsApp, Wickr,Telegram, Signal, and Calculator+.

Traffickers also have become more creative in branding and marketing various services, he said.

Emojis, for instance, have become “very prominent” within sex trafficking.

Traffickers use dating websites, and provide a false description followed by emojis to let buyers know what they’ll be getting.

So, instead of it being, say, a 21-year-old female being advertised, traffickers include a lollipop or growing heart emoji — to signify a young boy or girl is available for commercial sex.

Traffickers and pimps who previously branded their victims with tattoos to indicate ownership are no longer doing that because they realize that law enforcement and communities had caught on to that trend.

Instead, they incorporate soft branding — particularly on minors — in the form of necklaces, charm bracelets, wristbands and ankle bracelets.

Those usually contain a symbol, charm, emblem, number, phrase or word with a unique meaning, perhaps a lion’s head or lightning bolt,Wilkett said.

“Whatever it is, it will have an attachment to their boyfriend, trafficker, pimp,” he said.

Law enforcement agencies also have discovered “an absolute increase” in reports of familial sex trafficking — such as a grandmother pimping out a granddaughter, or an uncle pimping out a niece, he said.

The best way communities can combat illegal trafficking is to target buyers more robustly,Wilkett said.

Harsher penalties would decrease demand, thus reducing the incentive for traffickers to recruit victims,Wilkett said.

For instance, increasing the penalty from a misdemeanor to a felony for a first-time sex solicitation violation would help deter the crime, he said.

“They buyer needs to understand, ‘You are equally culpable,’”Wilkett said.

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3A

What’s Happening

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

TEALIGHT SNOWMAN

Carols & Cocoa

The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer a craft class on Dec. 16 at 4:30 p.m., for tweens. Participants can make a tealight snowman ornament.

Masks are recommended, but not required. Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org.

The Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will host “Community, Carols and Cocoa” on Dec. 18 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., open to all family, friends and neighbors.

There will be nativity displays, an animal petting area, a photo op in a ‘stable setting,’ and fire pits to roast marshmallows and make s’mores, while sipping on hot chocolate.

Guests can bring lawn chairs.

Admission is free. For information, call the church at 813-948-2311.

DIY LIP BALM The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer a DIY lip balm class on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.All supplies are provided.Allergen warning: coconut oil and beeswax. Masks are recommended, but not required. Registration is required at PascoLibraries.org.

HOLIDAY FOOD GIVEAWAY The 27th annual Farm Share Holiday Food Giveaway will take place Dec. 17 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Faith Baptist Church, 9230 Ridge Road in Port Richey.The giveaway is a drive-thru pickup, distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note: No food will be given away before 9 a.m.This event is sponsored

by Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano, Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley, Clerk of Court Nikki AlvarezSowles, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Property Appraiser Mike Wells, and Senators Ed Hooper and Wilton Simpson.

TRIVIA NIGHT The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host “Trivia Night:Winter Wonderland” on Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m., for teens and adults. Participants can test their knowledge of the season’s weather, holidays around the world, and festive food, music and movies. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams. For a chance to win a prize, provide your address in the online registration, through the calendar feature, at HCPLC.org.

RIP CITY FUNDRAISER The nonprofit youth basketball program called Rip City Basketball is offering a “Christmas Through Time” escape room experience to raise funds for its players, to help offset travel and equipment costs for tournaments.The escape room, located in a large warehouse, can be scheduled any time during the workweek or on Friday

Online survey

The 2021 Pasco County Online Citizen Survey is now available until Jan. 6. Feedback is needed on these topics: Utilities; parks and libraries; safety/emergency services; transportation; growth; and, importance/quality of services. Find the survey at My Pasco.net (click on survey link); on the MyPasco App (click on Citizen Survey button); on Pasco County’s Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Nextdoor.com pages; or you can visit bit.ly/2021PascoSurvey.

and Saturday evenings. Rip City is based in Wesley Chapel and includes players who come from at-risk personal situations. For more information, contact Colin Bolinger at 812-841-6042 or chapelripcity@gmail.com.

GIFT WRAPPING The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer holiday gift wrapping, on Dec. 18 from 10 a.m. to noon, and on Dec. 19 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., for all ages.

Bring your gifts; all other supplies will be provided. Participants also can bring their own supplies. For information, call 727815-7126.

LIVE NATIVITY Atonement Lutheran Church, 29617 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host a live nativity scene on Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. Guests can bring their own chairs. Handicap spaces will be available.There will be refreshments afterward. For information, visit DiscoverALC.com, or @ALCWC on Facebook.

YETI PLUSH The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will offer a class on Dec. 18 at 3 p.m., for teens in grades eight to 12.

Participants can create a no-sew hand-tied fleece yeti plush.The event will include a look at global folklore surrounding winter, ice and snow. Registration is required online at PascoLibraries.org.

LIVING HISTORY The Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, will present a living history event, “Florida’s Seminole Wars,” on Dec. 18 and Dec. 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.The event features all three Seminole wars, from 1817 to 1858.There will be first-person impressions of historical figures; authentic native and pioneer skills demonstrations; and a battle/skirmish reenactment each day at 3 p.m.Author and historian Dale Cox will be part of the program.All museum buildings will be open. No coolers, outside food or beverages will be allowed. Guests can bring lawn chairs. No

pets; service dogs only.Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students. Kids age 5 and younger are free. For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org, or call 352567-0262.

INTRO TO FACEBOOK Staff from the New River Branch and Hugh Embry Branch libraries will visit the Dade City Senior Center, 13853 15th St., in Dade City, on Dec. 20 at 10:30 a.m., to give an introduction to Facebook. Registration is required online at PascoLibraries.org.

For information, call 813-788-6375.

HOLIDAY STORY TIMES The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, will host these Winter Holidays story times, for ages up to 5 years old: Dec. 21 at 11 a.m.; Dec. 22 at 10:15 a.m.; and Dec. 22 at 11 a.m.There will be stories about Kwanzaa, Christmas and Chanukah, plus songs and dances.

Space is limited. Registration is online at PascoLibraries.org. Call 813-788-6375 for information.

GINGERBREAD WORLD Dade City’s fifth annual “Gingerbread World” contest and exhibit will be on display during the Church Street Christmas on Dec. 21, Dec. 22 and Dec. 23 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., at the First Baptist Church, 37511 Church Ave. Individual/household gingerbread entries will complete for cash prizes.

Business/organization partnerships and advertisement opportunities also are available, starting at $100.All monies raised from these partnerships and donations will benefit the Oasis Pregnancy Care Center. For information and an entry form, visit DCgingerbread.com.

REPUBLICAN CLUB The East Pasco Republican Club will meet on Dec. 21 at 6 p.m., at the Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, 37015 Orange Valley Lane in Dade City.The guest speaker will be Shawn Foster, Pasco County Republican committeeman.

NAPKIN RINGS Staff from the New River Branch and Hugh Embry Branch libraries will visit the Dade

City Senior Center, 13853 15th St., in Dade City, on Dec. 22 at 10:30 a.m. Participants can make felt poinsettia napkin rings.Visit PascoLibraries.org to register.

READING CHALLENGE The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host a Winter Reading Mini Challenge from Dec. 26 through Jan. 2, for all ages.There will be a preview of the upcoming challenge on Dec. 20 at 6:30 p.m. Participants can log their reading, claim digital badges, and win books.To be eligible to claim book prizes, participants must provide an address at registration. Register online HCPLC.Beanstack.org.

WINTER SOLSTICE The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Celebrations Around the World:Winter Solstice” on Dec. 21 at 5:30 p.m., for all ages, online.

Participants can get a glimpse of the music, food, customs and culture of special occasions around the world.

Register at HCPLC.org.

KIDS’ NEW YEAR The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host a New Year’s Countdown for Kids on Dec. 28 at 6:30 p.m., for ages 5 to 7 and their caregivers.

There will be trivia, giveaways, and a special reading. Register and attend for a chance to win free books and other prizes.

Registration is online at HCPLC.org.

JUNIOR GARDENERS The UF/IFAS Pasco County Cooperative Extension will host the Junior Master Gardener Youth Education Series starting Jan. 8 from 10 a.m. to noon, for ages 8 to 12.The series is a virtual session one Saturday a month from January to May, with a final in-person session and induction ceremony scheduled for June.

The series’ topics include: Florida-Friendly gardening practices; gardening fundamentals; new plant growing techniques; insects; and more.The program is $60 per child, and includes all activity materials, instruction and books.

Registration is required online at bit.ly/3wF85iA.

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Gulfside Hospice once again is offering its one-of-a-kind calendar, for 2022, available at all of its thrift shops.

The annual 15-month calendar features photos exclusively in Pasco County taken by community members to highlight the area that ‘Feeling Lazy’ by Doreen Damm, New Port Richey Gulfside serves.

(September) This year’s cover promotes “Community-Supporting Service,” one of Each winning photographer received a Gulfside’s three core values. gift certificate for Gulfside’s shops, as well as More than 140 photos of Pasco events, complimentary copies of the calendar. places, landmarks and wildlife were submitCalendars are available for a donation of ted for judging, and 18 winning photos $5 at any Gulfside Hospice thrift shop locawere chosen for the calendar. tion.

All five stores are open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For addresses and phone numbers, visit Gulfside.org.

All proceeds from the sale of the calendars go to support patient care and bereavement services for Pasco County residents, regardless of their ability to pay.

‘Reflections’ by Donald L. Kuhnle, Hudson For information about the calendars or Beach (December) photo contest, call 727-845-5707.

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Gulfside.org | 800-561-4883 5 4 3 Learn about the most pivotal years of Floridaa’s history through the eyes of the soldiers, militia, civiliians, and Indians.

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All museum buildings will be open!

$10 ADULLT ADMISSION $5 STUDENT ADMISSION under 5 free School field trip day: Dec. 17 (pre-registration required) ng • Free Parki rs, • No Coole or outside food e allowed s ge ra ve b be itted m er P s ir • Lawn Cha • No Pettss, only service dogs

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FEA ATURING ALL THREE SEMINOLE WARS, from 18177 to 1858, with WA emphasis on the 2nd Seminole War Come and C d be b a part of this vent! one-of-a kind event!

This event will feature: ture: ression of historical • First-person impression figures • Authentic native and pioneer skills demonstrations eenactment aat 3pm • Battle/skirmish reenactment each day

Author and historian Dale Cox will be part of the program.

Presented in partnership with the Sem minole Wars Foundaation and Funding for this program was proovided through a grant ffrom th the Fl Florida id H Humanities iti with ith ffunds d ffrom th the N National ti l Endowment for the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of Florida Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

1 mile north of downtown Dade City off US Hwy 301 at a 15602 Pioneer Museum Road 33523 For more info, lesson plans, or a schedule of events:

www.pioneerfloridamuseum.org or 352-567-02622 www.LakerLutzNews.com

December 15, 2021

5A

Closer Look a n

a d v e r t i s e r

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Boardwalk Wealth Solutions is Here to Help You Achieve Your Financial Goals

By Nicole Sanchez

Ralph Sevelius learned early on that trustworthy financial advisors can really add value to their clients' lives. This led him to become an advisor in 2007.

“As an independent advisor, I can provide much better service and value to my clients because I can run my business in a way that always serves my clients’ best interests,” says Sevelius.

Located in Tampa, Boardwalk Wealth Solutions offers financial planning, investment management, estate planning and tax planning to its clients all over the country.

According to LivingFacts.org, only 37% of non-retired Americans said in 2019 that their retirement savings were on track. Conversely, 44% of non-retirees said that their retirement savings are not on track, and the rest are not sure. In other words, at least 63% of non-retirees in the U.S. are not confident that their money will last as long as they do.

“Basically, I provide comprehensive wealth management and planning,” says Sevelius, “I help address and minimize risks in my clients’ lives and assist them in achieving their goals.”

Even though Sevelius is very diligent about how many clients he takes on, Boardwalk Wealth Solutions still offers free consultations to every potential client who is looking for guidance.

“If a person isn’t fit for me to take on as a client, I always make sure they are pointed in the right direction and give them resources that can help them at some point achieve their goals,” says Sevelius.

When first meeting with a potential client, Sevelius has them set and quantify their fundamental goals, while still reaching for their dreams.

This basic flight plan helps Sevelius get an idea of what the client wants to achieve financially in the future.

“My favorite part is seeing people achieving goals they thought they’d never achieve; that’s what it’s all about,” says Sevelius.

When creating each plan, Sevelius likes to figure out each client's current situations, resources, how much they’ve saved, their income, etc. He makes sure to address their fears and goals so he knows what to avoid and what to achieve in the process.

It’s important to keep in mind that flight plans, or initial plans, are never set in stone because life has many variables to it.

“Your plan needs flexibility to make adjustments,” warns Sevelius.

The sooner you start taking the steps to achieving your dreams, the better.

“What makes me sad is when someone is ready to retire, but they have never sat down and made a plan. I end up having to be the one to break the news to them and let them know that it's essentially too late. We end up having to make other goals and they, unfortunately, have to be a bit humbler with their goals. It makes me wish that I would have met them years ago, so we could have put them in a better position,” says Sevelius.

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Landowners can apply to conservation easement program The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is accepting applications from agricultural producers and forest landowners from Florida for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program.

The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service accepts these applications year-round, but producers and landowners should apply by Dec. 31 to be considered for funding in the current cycle, according to a news release from the USDA. The easement program provides financial and technical assistance to help conserve agricultural lands and wetlands, and their related benefits.

Under the Agricultural Land Easements component, the NRCS helps Indian tribes, state and local governments, and non-government organizations protect working agricultural lands and limit non-agricultural

uses of the land.

Under the Wetlands Reserve Easements components, the NRCS helps restore, protect and enhance enrolled wetlands.

“This is a great opportunity to combat the climate crises and conserve Florida’s lands, biodiversity and natural resources, Juan Hernandez, the Florida State Conservationist for NRCS, said in the release.

The land easements protect the longterm viability of the nation’s food supply by preventing the conversion of productive working lands to other uses, and has other benefits, too.

The wetland reserve easements provide habitat for fish and wildlife, improve water quality by filing sediments and chemicals, reduce flood, recharge groundwater and have other benefits, according to the release.

To apply, contact the NRCS at your local USDA Service Center.To find your local service center, go to Farmers.gov.

Kathryn Starkey is Pasco County’s board chairwoman The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

The Pasco County Commission has selected board member Kathryn Starkey to be the board’s new chairwoman.

Board member Jack Mariano has been named vice chairman.

Starkey represents the commission’s District 3 seat; Mariano represents District 5.

Ron Oakley, the immediate past chairman, represents District 1; Mike Moore, represents District 2; and, Christina

Fitzpatrick represents District 4.

In addition to reorganizing the board, the board also approved new district boundaries.

That exercise, known as redistricting, is done every 10 years, following the completion of the U.S. Census.

The idea is to have districts of roughly equal in terms of population size.

The new districts took effect on Dec. 7.

To see the districts and who represents you, visit bit.ly/CommissionDistricts.

Selection of planning board members to change

By B.C. Manion bcmanion@lakerlutznews.com

The Pasco County Commission has approved a new process for selecting members of the Pasco County Planning Commission.

Under the new process, each county board member will be able to choose someone to sit on the planning board.

There also will be one at-large member, who will be selected collectively by the county board.

There’s also a representative for the Pasco County School Board on the planning board and that will not change.

County board members approved the process change during their Dec. 7 meeting.

They had discussed their desire to change the selection process during previous meetings and directed county staff to pursue changes to the county’s land development code to effectuate the change.

The amendment required public hear-

ings, and no one stepped forward to speak in favor or in opposition.

The proposed terms of the planning board members would coincide with the term of the county board member who selected him or her.

The new process will take effect on Feb. 22.

Although each county board member will appoint one member of the planning board, there are no restrictions on where the planning board members live.

Three of the current planning board members live in County Commissioner Mike Moore’s district and three live in County Commissioner Christina Fitzpatrick’s district. No planning board members live in the districts represented by Kathryn Starkey, Jack Mariano or Ron Oakley.

In previous discussions, Oakley said he didn’t see a need for the change since the planning board members serve the entire county, but Starkey and Mariano said they wanted a greater say.

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Tips to avoid these ‘top 12’ scams of Christmas The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) has released its Naughty List, with the top 12 scams of Christmas, along with tips for avoiding them.

These scams are frequently accomplished through email and social media sites, so be particularly careful when clicking into an email or onto a site.

HERE’S THE BBB’S NAUGHTY LIST:

• Misleading Social Media Ads: As you scroll through your social media feed, you often see items for sale from a small business. Sometimes the business even claims to support a charity to try to get you to order, or they offer a free trial. BBB Scam Tracker receives reports of people paying for items that they never receive, getting charged monthly for a free trial they never signed up for, or receiving an item that is counterfeit or much different from the one advertised. Do your homework and research the company before ordering.

• Social Media Gift Exchanges: Each holiday season this scheme pops back up, and this year is no different.A newer version of this scam revolves around exchanging bottles of wine; another suggests purchasing $10 gifts online. Another twist asks you to submit your email into a list where participants get to pick a name and send money to strangers to “pay it forward.”There is even a twist about “Secret Santa Dog” where you buy a $10 gift for your “secret dog.”

In all of these versions, participants unwittingly share their personal information, along with those of their family members and friends, and are further tricked into buying and shipping gifts or money to unknown individuals.And it’s an illegal pyramid scheme.

• Holiday Apps: Apple’s App Store and Google Play list dozens of holiday-themed apps where children can video chat live with Santa, light the menorah, watch Santa feed live reindeer, track his sleigh on Christmas Eve, or relay their holiday wish lists.This holiday season, like last year when COVID-19 caused children to skip the traditional in-person visit with Santa, apps may play a more important role than ever.

Review privacy policies to see what information will be collected. Be wary of free apps, as they can sometimes contain more advertising than apps that require a nominal fee.

Free apps can also contain malware.

• Alerts About Compromised Accounts: BBB has been receiving reports claiming your Amazon, Paypal, Netflix or bank account has been compromised.

Victims receive an email, call or text message that explains that there has been suspicious activity on one of their accounts, and it further urges them to take immediate action to prevent the account from being compromised. Be extra cautious about unsolicited calls, emails and texts.

• Free Gift Cards: Nothing brings good cheer like the word ‘FREE’. Scammers have been known to take advantage of this weakness by sending bulk phishing emails requesting personal information to receive free gift cards. In some of these emails, scammers impersonate legitimate companies like Starbucks and promise gift cards to loyal customers that have been supporting their business throughout the pandemic. They may also use pop-up ads or send text messages with links saying you were randomly selected as the winner for a prize.

If you have received an unsolicited email with gift card offers, do not open it. Instead, mark it as Spam or Junk. However, if you opened the email, do not click on any links.

• Temporary Holiday Jobs: Retailers typically hire seasonal workers to help meet the demands of holiday shoppers. Shippers and delivery services are top holiday employers this year because of the increase in online orders and the need to get most of these packages delivered before Christmas.

These jobs are a great way to make extra money, sometimes with the possibility of turning into a long-term employment opportunity. However, jobseekers need to be wary of employment scams aimed at stealing money and personal information from job applicants. Keep an eye out for opportunities that seem too good to be true.

• Look-Alike Websites: The holiday season brings endless emails offering deals, sales and bargains. Be wary of emails with links enclosed. Some may lead to look-alike websites created by scammers to trick people into downloading malware, making dead-end purchases and sharing private information. If you are uncertain about the email, do not click any of the links. Instead, hover over them to see where they reroute.

• Fake Charities: Typically, 40% of all charitable donations are received during the last few weeks of the year. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many organizations had to cancel their usual fundraising events and awareness campaigns, and are now inviting donors to support online.

Donors are advised to look out for fraudulent charities and scammers pretending to be individuals in need.Avoid impromptu donation decisions to unfamiliar organizations.

Responsible organizations will welcome a gift tomorrow as much as they do today.

Where possible, donate to the charity through their website and use a credit card.

• Fake Shipping Notifications: More consumers are making purchases online, there also is an increase in the number of notifications about shipping details from retailers and carriers. Scammers are using this new surge to send phishing emails with links enclosed that may allow unwanted access to your private information or download malware onto your device.They may also try to trick people into paying new shipping fees.

• Pop Up Holiday Virtual Events: This year, many local in-person events such as pop-up holiday markets or craft fairs, have moved online. Scammers are creating fake event pages, social media posts, and emails, charging admission for what used to be a free event.The goal is to steal credit card information. Confirm with the organizer of the event if there is an admission fee. In the cases where there is a charge, use a credit card. If the event is free, watch for scammers trying to claim otherwise.

• Top Holiday Wishlist Items: Low or ridiculously priced luxury goods, jewelry, designer clothing, and electronics are almost always cheap counterfeits and knockoffs.

This year, the Galactic Snackin’ Grogu Animatronic (aka Baby Yoda) and game consoles are some of the items in high demand.

Be very cautious when considering a purchase of these high-value items from individuals through social sites.

• Puppy Scams: Many families, especially those with children, may be considering adding a furry friend to their household this year. However, you could fall victim to a pet scam, which are on the rise this year.

Request to see the pet in person before making a purchase.

For general information on how to avoid scams, visit BBB.org/AvoidScams. For more advice, read BBB’s tips on online shopping. If you’ve spotted an online scam, report it to BBB ScamTracker.

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December 15, 2021

7A

Let’s put one myth to bed d for good: VACCINES DO NOT CAUSE THE FLU

I

nfluenza is so common that sometimes the risk it poses is overlooked. But the truth is, the flu can cause serious illness that leads to hospitalization p or even death – especially when the virus is coupled with a significant underlying health condition.

Despite the availability of the flu vaccine, some still resist, in some cases falling prey to the misguided notion that the vaccine causes the flu. This is fiction.

“W We’ve had influenza vaccines for many years, and the components have been refined and formulations are now safer than ever,” says Wi William Russell, M.D., Managing Partner, Conviva Care Center Palm Beach. “W We continue to push hard to get flu vaccines into the arms of everyone, especially those in a high-risk category.”

Dr. Russell said scientists and doctors continue to learn more about the flu, including its efffects on certain age groups. “If you look at the general population, those seniors 86 and above are at the greatest risk and need the vaccination the most,” he said. “COVID technology is relatively new, but the influenza technology has been refined over many, many years. It’s safe and effffective and the best way to protect you and your family.”

The reason a person might think they are getting the flu following a flu shot is the natural response of the body’s immune system. “Y You don’t get the flu from a flu shot, and any symptoms are normally very mild,” said Dr. Russell.

Respiratory viruses can be devastating to older adults, but are larrgely preventable with immunizations that preserve a good quality of life. “It’s always good to talk to your primary care physician because they know science, and they know you,” said Dr. Russell. “They will help in the decision-making process of

Send school news to news@lakerlutznews.com

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which flu vaccin ne works best for you based on dosage and formulation.”

In Palm Beach h, well over 90 percent of at-risk seniors have been vaccinated against COVID-19. Now, well into flu season, Dr. Russell and his team remain on-message that people can receive a COVID-19 vaccination and a flu shot at the same time, without fear of complications or severe side efffects.

“Make no mistake about it – Flu A and Flu B are always out there ready and waiting to pounce, so the best defense is to maintain your health by getting a flu shot,” says Dr. Russell. “It’s smart to protect yourself and your family. What we saw during the pandemic was, in many cases, people behaving with incredible responsibility, and we’re hopeful that same behavior carries over as we get further into flu season.”

At Conviva Care Center, the mission is one of service to its senior population.

Fulfilling its mission requires living the values and delivering on the promises of doing whatever it takes to make sure patients age well. More than eight million seniors reside in Florida and caring for their unique needs is Conviva’s biggest priority.

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Teachers in Pasco County have a new source for collecting much-needed school supplies for their classrooms, thanks to the Pasco Education Foundation and donors.

The Wise Supplies store at the District Office in Land O’ Lakes officially opened on Dec. 8 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, according to a news release.

“This is going to be a tremendous resource for our teachers,” said Pasco Superintendent Kurt Browning, in the release.

“We all know that teachers spend some of their own money to provide extras for their students. Now, they can arrange to visit Wise Supplies and get those supplies for free,” said Browning.

President of the Pasco Education Foundation Stacey Capogrosso said,“We are so excited to launch our Wise Supplies Center.This has been a vision for quite some time and is now a reality. Wise Supplies allows Pasco County Schools teachers to shop at no cost for essential supplies, ensuring that all students have access to equitable resources.”

The supply center is supported by community partners like Suncoast Credit Union, Creative Contractors, Florida Avenue

The Cypress Creek High School girls’ lacrosse team will host an inaugural Pancake Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 18 from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., in the school’s cafeteria, 8701 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel.

Those attending will be served a pancake breakfast catered by Mind Over Matter Meals.

Santa will be on site for family photos, and there will be Christmas movies on a big screen, cookie decorating, and holiday music.

Tickets are $10, and $5 for children younger than age 10.

To purchase tickets, visit tinyurl.com/4pmc5yxv.

IS OF FFICIALLY HER RE!

The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about news from our local schools, including upcoming events, photos of events, recognitions and so on.

Submissions need to include who, what, where, when, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit.

Please send your information two weeks prior to desired publication date, and email it to news@lakerlutznews.com. If you would like The Laker/Lutz News to consider coverage of an event, send a request to the same email.

Brewing, Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring,Volkswagen of Wesley Chapel, and Lutz Walmart.

For information on the store, visit PascoEducationFoundation.org.

NEW BELL TIMES AWAIT STUDENTS

Pasco County Schools wants to remind students and parents of some of the changes that are being put in place for when students return after Winter Break.

New bell times begin on Jan. 4 and are available online at tinyurl.com/53xekftj.

Bus passes are now available in myStudent.The district sent an email notifying parents of the updated bus information.

If not received, call the bus garage in your area.

The bus garage phone numbers are as follows: West Compound: 727-774-0400 Northwest Compound: 727-774-0540 Central Compound: 813-794-0520 East Compound: 352-524-0560 Southeast Compound: 813-794-0500 Temporary delays can be expected.

These delays will be reduced, as everyone adjusts to the new schedule.

Pasco County Schools will have safety precautions in place, just as it did during the first week of school.

STUDENTS & CHECKING FEES

Students interested in opening a checking account first should research the fees that may be charged by a financial institution.

Understanding service fees can help students choose the best option and can save money, according to the Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA), in a news release.

Establishing good financial practices early is essential for students, to build a financial future.

Fees vary by institution.The most common are maintenance and overdraft fees.

To avoid maintenance fees, a minimum daily or an average daily balance may be required.

To avoid a monthly fee, enough money has to be deposited in the account to meet the minimum balance requirement.

Overdraft or non-sufficient funds fees occur when a transaction costs more than the amount of money in the account.These fees can be expensive.

Most institutions will offer overdraft protection to cover the transaction, but there will be a fee each time.

ATM fees are another cost factor to consider.

Financial institutions charge a fee when an ATM is used that isn’t part of its network.

In addition, you can be charged a separate fee by the ATM owner.

KHEAA is a public, nonprofit agency that aims to improve students’ access to college, as well as provide information about financial aid and financial literacy at no cost to the students and parents.

Visit KHEAA.com for information.

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FRED BELLET

Bolts fan and U.S. Army veteran P.J. Gray, of Dade City, stands with other flag-bearing veterans at the groundbreaking event for the Let Us Do Good Village.

VILLAGE, from page 1A House staff on 9/11, as a scheduler for President George W. Bush.

Blakeman also had a nephew who died in 9/11, after rushing to Ground Zero to help others.

Like Stephen Siller, Blakeman said his nephew’s body was never recovered.

“The Siller family didn’t want to stay consumed in the darkness and tragedy of that day, but chose instead to honor heroic sacrifices that were made by all 2,977 who lost their lives that day in New York,Virginia and Pennsylvania.

“The Tunnel to Towers Foundation promised to never forget,” Blakeman said.

“This Let Us Do Good Village is just one example of the many good works that Frank Siller and the foundation has done all over our country.

“This village, the first of its kind, will create a community of families who will share a special bond together, who understand better than anyone what it takes to keep our nation and our communities free,” Blakeman said.

“It will be more than houses.Along with over 100 brand new mortgage-free homes, the Let Us Do Good Village will feature world-class amenities, will have an indoor basketball court, a pool, a tennis court, an ADA-accessible gym, a theater, an outdoor playground, a game room and so, so much more,” he said.

Another speaker, James S. “Hammer” Hartsell, drew an enthusiastic response from the crowd, when he said:“I feel bad for the rest of America who’s not here today, right here, right now. I feel sorry for them.This is where we need to be as Americans, right here, right now, today.”

Hartsell, who is the executive director of the Florida Veterans Administration, extended his thanks to the many veterans and

PROGRESS, from page 1A four sponsors and several new attractions, including sold-out historical ghost tours.

The Dec. 4 Festival of Lights reported eight sponsors, as well as four food vendors and eight concession vendors.

The event featured four co-grand marshals, which were standout teachers from the Zephyrhills area — Dustin Rowe (Zephyrhills High School), Michelle Elie (West Zephyrhills Elementary), Brian McKinnnies (Raymond B. Stewart Middle School) and Jaime Barrentine (Chester Taylor Elementary). A fifth educator also was recognized — Michelle Deloret (Woodland Elementary School) — but couldn’t attend the event.

Entertainment and music was provided by local community organizations, including Helen’s Baton and Dance Studio, the Zephyrhills Community Choir, and the First United Methodist Church Choir.

From left, retired U.S. Marine Corps Major Gen. James S. ‘Hammer’ Hartsell, Tunnel to Towers CEO Frank Siller, and Nancy Close pose for pictures after the groundbreaking for the Let Us Do Good Village. Close, representing the Mertz Foundation, was among several donors who are making the development of 100-plus homes on 75-acres, a reality in Land O’ Lakes.

active service members at the event.

“Thank you for these motorcycle riders over here who are protecting our flag and protecting our nation’s honor,” Hartsell said.

“Thank you for that color guard that drove up here from MacDill.

“I want to thank the moms and dads, aunts and uncles, grandparents — who brought kids here today.They need to see this and what we’re doing today because this is what makes America great.They won’t forget what they see and hear here today,” said Hartsell, a veteran of 37 years in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Other speakers also are recipients of Tunnel to Towers’ help.

One of those speakers was JoAnne Campbell, who was visibly emotional.

Her husband died from a 9/11-related illness.

“We’ve lost people that we’ve loved so dearly, and we felt the pain of losing them and the grief that follows.

But through that despair, Tunnel to Towers has helped remove some of the financial strain from me and my Frank Siller speaks to Bryan Dilberian, 35, of family.

“The gratitude that I feel for what Staten Island, prior to taking the stage for the they have done cannot be put into Tunnel to Towers Foundation ceremony. Veterans words,” said Campbell, whose mort- were honored for their service and in this case, gage was paid off by Tunnel to their sacrifice. Dilberian is the first recipient of a Smart Home in the Let Us Do Good Village.

Towers.

U.S.Army Sgt. Bryan Diberian, who will receive the first Smart Home in the Let Us Do Good Village, spoke, too.

Harold Mertz Foundation, which donated He sustained injuries when he was on the land. patrol in Afghanistan and stepped on an im“St. Francis of Assisi is the enduring inspiprovised explosive device in July 2011. ration for Stephen’s foundation, and he was “The Siller Foundation was pretty much the guiding light to the Siller family in their there by my bedside,” he said.“They sat me times of need and sorrow. down for lunch one day and they told me “St. Francis truly inspires the Esther and they’re going to build me a house. It Harold Mertz Foundation in its mission,” changed my life. It really did.”

Grandoff said.

Frank Siller, CEO and chairman of Tunnel Another speaker John B. Grandoff III is on the board of directors for the Esther and to Towers, greeted the crowd by expressing

In other action, the CRA Board unanimously approved a $1,000 matching sign grant for Bulldog Performance Speed Shop, owned by Jeremiah Swindell, at 5047 Gall Blvd.

The business sells an assortment of after-market automotive parts and accessories, and features a full-service machine shop.

Offerings include diesel performance, lift kits, nitrous, rotating assemblies, crate engines and race fuel.

The total cost of Bulldog Performance’s new signage was $2,238.90.

The sign improvements fall under the CRA’s matching façade rehabilitation program, which aims to encourage rehabilitation and preservation of commercial buildings by offering a financial incentive of matching funds and limited technical assistance.

The general idea is to encourage an aesthetically pleasing business district, while eliminating blighting influences.

Ask Yo Your Hometown Pharmacist Shannon Corkrean, PharmD

RIDGE ROAD, from page 1A The future growth includes a 775-acre Pasco campus planned by Moffitt Cancer Center, near the Ridge Road and Suncoast Parkway interchange.

Moffitt’s campus is expected to become a magnet for life sciences research.

The county’s elected leaders and economic development experts also expect

Welcoome

his gratitude for being together to celebrate the beginning of the Let Us Do Good Village.

“Can you believe it? You tell me that God doesn’t work in wondrous ways. Is this not a day that God has made?

“This is a day that brings the goodness of America together.Think about it.Think about it,” he said.

Siller reminded the crowd:“We live in this country because there’s such a tremendous sacrifice for us. Not just our military, but our men and women who protect us every single day, our police officers and our firefighters.”

Beyond providing mortgage-free homes, the Let Us Do Good Village will create a unique sense of community.

“This village will be a safe haven for the people who are going through the same thing in life,” Siller said.

A 10-year-old who lost his mom or dad will be able to talk to another 10-year-old going through the same thing. The same is true for a husband or wife, whose spouse sacrificed his or her life, he said.

“You know how important that is, to be able to sit with somebody that’s going through the same thing?” he said.

Siller said his parents died when Stephen was only 10, and he recalled his youngest brother telling him he wished he had not been born.

He told him not to say that, that someday he would do something really special.

“I think Stephen’s destiny was 9/11. I think he was put on this earth to run through that tunnel, to save people’s lives, so that we could start a foundation, so that we could help the greatness of America — those who are willing to die for you and I every day,” he said.

While the groundbreaking was a day of celebration, Siller reminded the crowd:“We have a lot of work ahead of us.”

He also encouraged those gathered to follow this teaching, of St. Francis of Assisi: “While we are here, while we have time, let us do good.”

Moffitt’s development to have a transformative effect on the area’s future development and to generate thousands of jobs.

Leadership from Pasco County Schools and Moffitt already foresee great possibilities of working together when the district builds its planned 6-12 STEAM school on land near Moffitt’s planned campus. The acronym STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

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December 15, 2021

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Community Sports Your Neighborhood Sports Source

Kevin Cash claims second straight manager award

By Kevin Weiss kweiss@lakerlutznews.com

T

ampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash earned an early — yet well-deserved — birthday present this year.

He became the first American League (AL) manager to win Manager of the Year twice in a row, which was announced by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) on Nov. 16, mere weeks before his 44th birthday on Dec. 6.

The Lutz native/Gaither High School alum was honored for steering the Rays to a franchise-best 100-62 regular season mark in 2021.

Cash received 19 first-place votes, three second-place votes and five third-place votes for a total of 109 points in the 5-3-1 scoring system. He won the award over Seattle Mariners’ Scott Servais (71 points) and Houston Astros’ Dusty Baker (33 points), respectively.

Cash also is only the second manager to win such a BBWAA Manager of the Year Award in back-to-back seasons. He joins Bobby Cox, who did so with the National League’s Atlanta Braves in 2004 and 2005.

The seventh-year manager humbly said he shouldn’t be listed in the “same sentence” or “same conversation” as the retired Cox, who ranks fourth all-time in managerial wins with 2,504 and is enshrined in the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

“When you think of major league managers, but really, the greats in this game, Bobby Cox is going to find himself at the top of many lists,” Cash said, during a Zoom media briefing after the award announcement. “I’ve crossed paths with Bobby one time, years ago, but to hear the stories about him…you can appreciate and understand the quality of person and impact that he had on our game.”

COURTESY OF TAMPA BAY RAYS COMMUNICATIONS

The Tampa Bay Rays won a franchise-record 100 games en route to its second straight AL East pennant in 2021.

OVERCOMING EXPECTATIONS, ADVERSITY

Despite coming of a World Series appearance during a pandemic-shortened 2020, expectations were relatively tame in the latest campaign.

Not only did the Rays again roll out one of the game’s cheapest payrolls, but they traded former Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell and let sage veteran pitcher Charlie Morton walk, declining the player’s $15 million option.

Before the season, Baseball Prospectus’ widely cited PECOTA (Player Empirical Comparison and Optimization Test Algorithm) sabermetric system forecasted the Rays to finish 86-76 with an 11% odds to win the division. (PECOTA forecasts the MLB standings and individual player performance. PECOTA takes teams’ depth charts and projects the playing time and stats for all their players, then simulates the season to come up with estimated win totals and playoff chances for every team.)

The projections didn’t appear far off at the onset, as Tampa Bay had a so-so start to the first month of the season, going 13-14 in April.

The Rays launched into another gear in May, going 22-6, then reached the All-Star break with a 53-37 mark.

The club would go on to secure the AL’s best record, while also leading its division for 98 straight days.

The team’s postseason run ended sooner than expected, however, losing to the Boston Red Sox in four games of a best-offive AL division series in October.

Adversity hit along the way, over the course of the six-month season.

FILE

Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash became the first American League manager to win the Baseball Writers’ Association of America (BBWAA) Manager of the Year Award twice in a row. The 44-year-old Cash grew up in the Lutz area and is a Gaither High School alum.

The Rays weathered 33 different players being placed on the injured list (totaling 43 stints).

That list included ace flamethrower Tyler Glasnow, who went down in mid-June with a season-ending partial UCL tear and flexor strain.

The injured list reached a club-record 17 players at various points throughout August.

Adding to the level of difficulty was a highly competitive AL East division, whereby three other star-powered teams posted at least 90 wins — Red Sox (92-70), New York Yankees (92-70),Toronto Blue Jays (91-71).

MIXING SMARTS WITH PERSONALITY

The reputable manager put his own twist on game strategy.

He used a club-most 61 players and 38 pitchers.

He used 14 different pitchers to record a save — setting a major league record.

He used 158 different batting orders in 162 games — the most in the majors and a club record.

Aside from all his tinkering, Cash deflected credit for the team’s feats this past season:“Well, I’m most proud of the players and the team, and the accomplishment of

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ADULT COED KICKBALL

Idlewild Baptist Church is offering an adult coed kickball league at its Lutz campus, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd.

Games will be played on Monday nights, from Jan. 10 through Feb. 28.

Cost is $45 per player.

For more information, visit Idlewild.org/recreation, or call Griffin Shollenberger at 813-264-8737 or email at gshollenberger@idlewild.org.

SAINT LEO SOFTBALL CAMP

The Saint Leo University women’s softball program is hosting a single-day camp to identify prospects on Jan. 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the campus’s University Softball Stadium, 33701 State Road 52, in St. Leo. Athletes are asked to bring a lunch and water bottle along with all of their softball gear; water will be supplied in the dugout.

Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., on the morning of the camp. The camp will in-

the regular season. One hundred wins in the American League East, with the talent level that was top to bottom in our division — pretty remarkable.”

Along with shrewd, if not sometimes head-scratching maneuvers that buck traditional baseball trends, Cash is regarded for bringing an even-keeled approach to his players and staff over the course of a trying season.

“I think you feed off your players, you feed off your staff, and we all work really hard to be as consistent as possible,” he said.

“We want to do everything we can to put them in the best position.”

He’s also famous for his self-deprecating humor within the clubhouse, often joking with players about his own substandard .183 career batting average across eight big league seasons from 2002 to 2010.

“You try not to take yourself too seriously,” Cash said, “and you appreciate how challenging this game is, whether it’s hitting, pitching, playing defense, running the bases — it’s really tough.”

He continued,“There’s enough outside pressures right now that are going on… we’ve got to do a good job of trying to keep it loose to where they have their clubhouse, their dugout, to where they can go and just be themselves.” clude defensive skill sessions, offensive instruction, live game opportunities, and a campus tour.There will also be a questionand-answer session with the parents and coaches while campers eat lunch with current players.

To sign up, visit SaintLeoSoftball.totalcamps.com/shop/EVENT. For more information, contact assistant coach Brittany Johnson at 352-588-8688 or Brittany.johnson05@saintleo.edu.

ALL-STAR BASKETBALL GAME

The first Pasco County middle school all-

IInjured? njured?

While advancing through the coaching ranks, Cash followed a protocol “to be all ears, and listen a lot more than speak, and learn as much as possible.”

It was especially true in collaborating with the Rays top baseball minds in the front office.“They’re a lot smarter than I am, and (I) value the perspective of the front office, and certainly value the perspective of the player development group,” he said.

Over the years, Cash said he’s strived to “find that balance” between befriending players, while still mentoring them along through a coaching methodology that focuses on consistency, communication and authenticity.

Looking forward, Cash is quite bullish on the team’s trajectory, given the vast number of young stars who contributed to recent successes, including AL Rookie of the Year Randy Arozarena, 20-year-old wunderkind Wander Franco, and a youthful pitching staff paced by 24-year-old lefty Shane McClanahan, among others.

The manager believes the franchise’s proverbial arrow is pointing “up, maybe straight up.”

He put it this way:“It’s a pretty exciting time to be a Tampa Bay Ray.We’ve got some really good players that were here…and there certainly is more to come, but a lot to be excited about.”

LOCAL ROOTS

Long before becoming one of the sport’s more recognizable figures, Cash grew up in the Valley Ranch Drive neighborhood across from Lake Park in Lutz, along North Dale Mabry Highway. His baseball notoriety began when he was young.

Some three-plus decades ago, he was a 12-year-old second baseman on the 1989 Northside Little League team that reached the 43rd Little League World Series.

He later would star at Gaither High and Florida State University through the midand late- 1990s before enjoying an eightyear MLB career as a journeyman catcher.

As a pro, he spent time on the then Devil Rays (in 2005), along with the Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox, respectively.

Upon the end of his playing career, Cash became a scout for the Blue Jays (2012) and then bullpen coach for the Cleveland Indians (2013-2014), before landing the Tampa Bay gig in December 2014. star girls basketball game is scheduled for Jan. 28 at 6:30 p.m., at Sunlake High School.

The event is expected to be held annually.

The contest will feature the top sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders from the east and west sides of the county.

The event is organized by Go Basketball, founded by Sunlake High varsity girls basketball coach/athletic director Reesa Pledge and former Division I basketball player Christina Watlington.

Fan entry is $5 with free parking.

For more information, visit GoBasketballNow.com.

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DECEMBER 15, 2021

Looking to make your holidays merrier?

Check out these local and regional attractions

By Karen Haymon Long Special to The Laker/Lutz News

I

f you want to amp up your holiday cheer, you have plenty of choices throughout Tampa Bay. From a floating pirate ship light display in the Hillsborough River, to visits with Santa at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, to ice skating rinks at the St. Pete Pier, Curtis Hixon Park and Tropicana Field — there seems to be something for everyone who wants to get out for some fun.

Here’s a sampling of highlights:

COURTESY OF THE HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM

PASCO COUNTY

• Through Dec. 31: “Symphony in Lights,” at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive,Wesley Chapel, features snowfalls, Christmas trees, and lights dancing to music. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; free.

TheShopsAtWiregrass.com.

• Dec. 15: Holiday Movie Night in the Garden, with “Christmas Vacation” and an ugly Christmas sweater contest, at Florida Avenue Brewery, 2029 Arrowgrass Drive, Wesley Chapel.

7 p.m.; free.

FloridaAveBrewing.com; 813-452-6333.

• Dec. 18: Mrs. Claus Craft Fair, at Harley-Davidson of New Port Richey, 5817 State Road 54, New Port Richey; noon to 4 p.m.; NPRharley.com; 888-296-4819.

• Dec. 21 to Dec. 23: Church Street Christmas, along Church Avenue in downtown Dade City. This features carolers, dancers and musicians, decorated homes, luminary-lit sidewalks and more. 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.; ChurchStreetChristmas.org for parking information.

• Daily: Ice skate and snow tube, play in a snow dome, even rent an igloo at Snowcat Ridge theme park, at 27839 Saint Joe Road, Dade City. The alpine snow park also features shopping, food and drinks. 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., or 11 p.m., depending on date.Tickets, $39.95, sold at SnowCatRidge.com. 813-5761450.

COURTESY OF ZOO TAMPA

ZooTampa celebrates with ‘Christmas in the Wild,’ showcasing light displays, holiday entertainment, music and a holiday marketplace.

The Victorian Christmas Stroll, at the Henry B. Plant Museum on the University of Tampa campus, in downtown Tampa, features trees adorned with antique ornaments, exhibits of Christmases past, as well as holiday music and refreshments.

COURTESY OF ENCHANT CHRISTMAS

Enchant Christmas transforms Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg into a winter wonderland, with an illuminated ice skating trail, a light maze, artisan market and more.

COURTESY OF SNOWCAT RIDGE

Celebrate Christmastime at Snowcat Ridge theme park in Dade City by chilling out in a snow play dome, ice skating, snow tubing or renting an igloo.

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY

• Through Dec. 23: 40th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll, at the Henry B. Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, with Christmas past exhibits, tiny antique Christmas trees, vintage Santas, a 14-foot tree adorned with antique ornaments; holiday music, refreshments and more. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Advanced tickets required.Adults, $16, seniors, $14, youth, $10.

Buy online at PlantMuseum.com; 813-2541891. Masks required.

• Through Dec. 30: “Christmas in the Wild,” at ZooTampa, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, features light displays, entertainment, and Twinkletown Marketplace with holiday treats and ornament displays.A redand-white lit Candy Cane Carousel and Mrs. Claus’ Sweets Shoppe are other delights, along with Christmas treats and drinks for sale.Times vary per night. Reservations encouraged for timed tickets selling for $29.95, for ages 3 and older. Buy at ZooTampa.org; 813-935-8552.

• Through Jan. 2: Christmas Town at Busch Gardens, 10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa, features thousands of twinkling lights, holiday shows, Santa visits, ice skating and fireworks shows, music, food, and train rides under lights.Admission starting at $90 for adults. Nightly; BuschGardens.com; 813884-4386.

• Through Jan. 2: The Polar Express 4D Experience, at The Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Dec. 18 and 19, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., kids can make socially distanced Santa visits. From Dec. 26 to Dec. 31, 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Jan. 1 to Jan. 2, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Snow Days features a Winter Wonderland Dance Party, interactive activities and times when visitors can throw snowballs at “pollution monsters plaguing our oceans.”

COURTESY OF PENNY CARNATHAN

Sonny Masterson, of Tarpon Springs, serves up hot chocolate at the ‘chocolate ba’ at Snowcat Ridge.

Advance, timed tickets are encouraged and sold at FLaquarium.org. Prices vary by day but are generally about $30 for adults, $27 for ages 3-11, and free for ages 2 and younger. 813-273-4000.

• Through Jan. 2: Downtown Tampa’s Winter Village, at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N.Ashley Drive, offers ice skating, a cafe, shopping and holiday activities sponsored by the Tampa Bay Lightning. Hours vary by day. For details and ice skating tickets, see WinterVillageTampa.com.

• Dec. 18: Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade along the Hillsborough River downtown. 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. See from The Tampa Riverwalk, lit up with Christmas lights and twinkling trees now through Jan. 2.Also, see floating light displays - think pirates and a pirate ship - in the river, buy drinks and food in restaurants and bars along the walk. For directions and parking information, see TheTampaRiverWalk.com.

• Dec. 18: Watch the Tampa Holiday Lighted Boat Parade aboard the American Victory Ship & Museum, 705 Channelside

IT DOESN’T MAAT ATTER

COURTESY OF THE SHOPS AT WIREGRASS

Symphony in Lights at The Shops at Wiregrass features decorated trees, snowfalls, and lights dancing to music. The Wesley Chapel attraction draws big crowds.

Drive,Tampa. Enjoy entertainment, spirits and eats from food trucks. 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. $15 for adults, $10 for kids 4-12, free for 3 and younger.AmericanVictory.org. 813-228-8766.

PINELLAS COUNTY

• Through Jan. 2: “Enchant Christmas,” at Tropicana Field, Tropicana Drive, St. Petersburg, features a Christmas light maze and village, an ice skating trail, thousands of lights, holiday treats and music, Santa, an artisan Christmas market and more.Adults, $25 to $35; ages 3 to 17, $25. Christmas brunches and dinners are an additional fee. Hours vary by date. See EnchantChristmas.com for details. 833-362-6445.

• Through Jan. 17: Winter Beach, at St. Pete Pier’s Spa Beach Park, 600 Second Ave., N.E., St. Petersburg, cools things down with a real-ice ice skating rink, Santa, an arcade, free holiday concerts, and a holiday market with local vendors and artists. Free admission.

Skating fee, $17 for 75 minutes, which includes skate rentals.

See WinterBeachStPete.com to purchase timed

skating tickets and to view skating hours.

The pier district is generally opened from 30 minutes before sunrise to 11 p.m.

• Dec. 16: Christmas Extravaganza Market, 612 Cleveland St., Clearwater, with 50 local artisans and businesses at pop-up shops circling a Christmas tree. 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.TheMarketCulture.com.

• Dec. 16 to Dec. 20: Christmas at the Station, at the Dunedin History Museum, 349 Main St., Dunedin, presents a North Pole Christmas experience with elves, visits with Santa, children’s activities, snow, snowball contests and musical performances. Hours vary by date.Tickets, $20, (free for age 1 and younger) must be purchased in advance online at DunedinMuseum.org. 727-736-1176.

• Dec. 18: Brunch with Santa at Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, includes admission to the aquarium, brunch and a family photo with Santa. 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. $54.95 for adults, $44.95 for children. Reservations encouraged. Buy tickets online at CMaquarium.org. 727-441-1790.

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Reba is a sociable dog Reba is a 2-year-old Staffordshire Bull Terrier that was rescued by the Cagle family last April as a stray. She loves people and animals alike.

Although Reba loves to be around people and dogs, she never barks. She enjoys digging, running around with her tennis ball, and cuddling under the covers with anyone who is willing. Reba is a very good girl and lives with Josh and Alison Cagle, in San Antonio.

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.

A WARNING GESTURE

This wood stork’s fluffed-up chest feathers resemble a huge beard. Lillian Cucuzza, of Land O’ Lakes, had never seen a wood stork do this before and snapped the photo. Wood storks nest in tight colonies with egrets and herons and generally show little aggression, but if a bird or mammal threatens the stork, it may pull its neck in, fluff up their feathers, and walk toward the intruder.

PUT YOUR PET IN THE SP POTLIGHT! We are looking for photos and information on your favorite pet.

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

PET PAWS BAT EXCLUSION SEASON

Don’t forget rg to include the owner’’ss name and city of residence!

Send photo and information to:

The LAKERR//LLutz L NEW WS Email to: mrathman@lakerlutznews.com, SUBJEC CT:: Pet of the Week e Mail to: , P..O. Box 4 479, Lutz, FL 33548

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding the public that fall is an ideal time to exclude bats from your home or other structure.

While Florida’s 13 native and benefit bat species typically roost in trees, caves or other natural spaces, they also can be attracted to human-made structures, according to an FWC news release.

Bat maternity season, the time when bats give birth and raise their young, ended on Aug. 15. Now is the time to batproof your home, after bat pups have been weaned, and can fly and search out food on their own.

Fall also is when you can legally exclude any bats that might occupy a structure on your property. It is only legal to use exclusion devices from Aug. 15 through April 15.

An exclusion device allows bats to exit a structure but also blocks them from returning to roost, and is the only legal and appropriate method to remove bats from a home or building.

Bat exclusion is a multistep technique

that identifies all potential bat entry and exit points in a building.

It is illegal in Florida to kill or harm bats.

For more information about how to properly exclude bats, as well as other tips to bat-proof your home, visit MyFWC.com/bats and click on “Bats in Buildings.”

SHARE YOUR PET NEWS

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

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

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

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

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

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Avery is full of personality Avery is enthusiastic about everything life has to offer. This 5-year-old, 60pound girl loves to be petted and snuggle with her human. She is wild about her rope toy, shaking and tossing it around. She even likes to play soccer. Avery is attentive, especially when food is involved, and takes treats gently. She also sits and shakes on command. Although she loves people, she would do best as an only dog.

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Ernie is a bundle of energy Ernie is a 1-year-old that weighs about 75 pounds, and needs someone who can handle his size and strength. An active home where he can get lots of exercise, training and attention would be ideal. Ernie enjoys playing with other dogs, preferring those who have a rough-and-rowdy style like he does. He loves a good game of chase. He has lived with children and cats, and was reported to be good with both. Ernie is attentive and knows the sit and down commands. He is affectionate and loves to give kisses, but could use some work on chewing and being mouthy.

If you would like to adopt Avery or Ernie, be sure to make an appointment at Pasco County Animal Services at 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes, by calling 813929-1212. The adoption center is open Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6:30 p.m.

All adoption fees include spay/neuter, microchip and vaccines. For more information, email adoptionpartners@pascocountyfl.net.

The LAKER / Lutz NEWS CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1. Loud cheer 5. Defensive nuclear weapon (abbr.)

8. Type of cell 11. Oblong pulpits 13. Pitching statistic 14 Uncommon 15. Liabilities 16. Thin, straight bar 17. Oh goodness!

18. Competitions 20. __ Jima, WW II battlefield 21. Professional assn. (abbr.)

22. Italian mountain range 25. Taking possession of 30. Used in cooking and medicine 31. Water (French) 32. Parent a child 33. Sun-dried brick 38. One point south of due east 41. Female fashion accessory 43. A way of making a copy of 45. A way to debilitate 47. Wings 49. Social insect 50. Dull brown fabrics 55. Indian musical pattern 56. N. England university 57. Portable stands for coffins 59. Iranian district 60. Envision 61. Passerine bird genus 62. Container 63. Falter 64. Tunisian city

SEE SOLUTIONS, PAGE 9B

DOWN 1. Cool!

2. Passover offering 3. Swedish rock group 4. Collegiate military organization 5. Large nests 6. Beloved baked good 7. 1980s pop legend 8. Finger millet 9. Hillside 10. Surrender 12. Midway between south and southeast 14. Long, narrow strap 19. Discount 23. A type of cast 24. Large, tropical lizard 25. Half of “Milli Vanilli” 26. Single 27. Big truck 28. Midway between east and southeast 29. Et __: indicates further 34. Insecticide 35. Luke Skywalker’s mentor __-Wan 36. Cast out 37. Breakfast food 39. By reason of 40. One who makes thread 41. Baseball stat 42. Breezed through 44. Frothy mass of bubbles 45. Tony-winning actress Daisy 46. Made of fermented honey and water 47. Member of a Semitic people 48. Monetary unit of the Maldives 51. Run batted in 52. Makes publicly known 53. Disagreement 54. Soluble ribonucleic acid 58. Single-reed instrument

www.LakerLutzNews.com

December 15, 2021

3B

faith &

2021 Holiday Services and Activities

Worship Christm mas Eve Mass THE NAT ATIVITY OF OUR LORD

10:00 p.m. Mussic Prelude • 10:30 p.m. Mass

St. Paul's P Episcopal Church 3836 Fllatiron Loop, Suite 101 • W We esley Chapel 813-803-7489

Viiew Live at V ww ww w..saintpaulsepiscopalchurch.org (Select “Livestream”) **Incense I n c e n s e will w i l l be b e used. u s e d . Masks M a s k s required, r e q u i r e d , safely-distanced s a f e l y - d i s t a n c e d seating s e a t i n g provided. provided.

Community, C ommunity, Carols Carols & Cocoa Cocoa Sunday, S unday, D December ecember 118th 8th • 5 5:00-6:30pm :00-6:30pm ima a Friday Frida Fr riid da ay yD De December ece ecem em mbe mb err 224 24th 4tth h Chri Ch Christmas hri hr rissttm ma ass Ev Eve ve e SServices: ervices viic ice ces es: s: Famil FFamily Fa ami am mil ily ly Ca Candlelight andlle an lelig liig igh ght C Co Communion om mm mu un niio on Service Servic viic ice ce a att 4: 44:00 :00 PM :0 PM. M. Tr M. Traditional rad ra diitiio ional Ca Candlelight andl an dle lelig liig igh ght Communion Co C om mm mu un niio on SService ervic viic ice ce a att 6: 6:00 :00 P :0 PM M

Harvester H arvester Community Comm ommunity Church Chu hurch

24 22432 432 Collier Collier er P Parkway arkway • 813-948-2311 arkw 813-94 948-2311

Christmas Services Friday December 24th 5pm – Family Service 7pm – Candlelight Service Saturday December 25th 10am – Communion

HOLY TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH 20735 Leonard Rd • Lutz, FL 33558

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Merry Me erry Chris er Christ m mas as from:

May your r Holiday be filled d witH Peace, love e & Joy! 4B

December 15, 2021

www.LakerLutzNews.com

What’s Cookin’

The holidays are here — let’s have a cup of cheer

RECIPES

By Shari Bresin Special to The Laker/Lutz News

If you believe everything you hear and read, you might think that gaining weight at the holidays is inevitable.

But that simply isn’t so.

A study reported in The New England Journal of Medicine found that, on average, the weight gain from Thanksgiving to New Year’s ranges from 1 pound to 3 pounds.

Of course, that varies from person to person, but whether it’s 1 pound or more — the downside is that you’re starting off the New Year on the wrong foot.

Plus, according to another study from the New England Journal of Medicine, while half of us seeking to lose holiday weight gain will do so quickly, others won’t return to our pre-holiday weight until May. It’s also important to remember that the holiday food we consume isn’t the only thing that packs on the pounds.

What we drink matters, too.

As you are considering those calories from appetizers, meals and desserts, don’t forget to add up the calories you’re drinking, too.

For instance, those pumpkin spice lattes you ordered in October (and September and August) typically had 50 grams of sugar, and 390 calories for a 16-ounce cup.

You could have had an entire lunch for 390 calories — without the sugar.

Consider counting your holiday drink as your dessert, to avoid loading up on too much sugar.

Another small compromise? Skimp on the whipped cream, caramel, or chocolate sauces.

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County.

Festive drinks the whole family can enjoy Peppermint Floats

Apple Pie Milkshakes

(Get your candy canes ready)

(Great way to use up leftover pie)

This recipe from Kroger.com creates a drink that tastes like Christmas.

Ingredients: • 1 ½ quarts mint chocolate chip ice cream • 4 ½ cups 7Up, chilled • Whipped cream • Crushed candy canes Directions: • Put 2 scoops of ice cream in glass.

• Fill glass with 7Up. • Top with whipped cream and crushed candy canes.

• Add a candy cane or two in the glass, just for show.

Yield: Six tall glasses

This recipe from Betty Crocker makes two servings.

Ingredients: • 2 cups vanilla ice cream, slightly softened • 1 Tablespoon milk • ¼ to ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • 1 slice cold apple pie, cut into chunks Directions: • Place ice cream, milk and cinnamon in a blender.

• Cover and blend on high until smooth and creamy.

• Add chunks of pie; cover and blend until smooth.

• Pour into 2 glasses; add whipped cream and cinnamon.

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

(Fewer ingredients, same great taste) This recipe comes courtesy of University of Illinois Extension.

Ingredients: • 2 ¾ cups powdered sugar • 2 cups unsweetened cocoa • 2 teaspoons salt Directions for mix: • Whisk sugar, cocoa and salt in a large bowl until mixed well.

• Store prepared mix in an airtight container.

Directions for hot cocoa: • Heat milk in the microwave or on stove, to not quite at a boil.

• Stir in 3 Tablespoons of mix per 8-ounce cup of milk.

• Add whipped cream, marshmallows, sprinkles or other toppings, as desired.

Yield: Makes 25 8-ounce servings

faith &

Gingerbread Lattes

(Who needs a fancy coffee shop; you can make your own) This simple recipe comes from AARP. Ingredients: • 2 shots espresso • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon ground ginger • 1 teaspoon sugar • 1 Tablespoon molasses • ¾ cup milk (whole or 2% is better for frothing) Directions: • Gently whisk coffee, spices, molasses and sugar in a measuring cup, then pour into a mug.

• Froth milk or warm it on the stove and slowly pour into mixture.

• Drizzle salted caramel syrup on top.

2021 Holiday Services and Activities

Worship

We Invite You to Celebrate

Christmas at St. Mark’s Christmas Eve Festive Choral Mass 7 p.m.

Choral Concert starts at 6:30 p.m.

Midnight Mass 11 p.m.

Christmas Day Mass 10 a.m.

Choral Concert starts at 10:30 p.m.

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church 13312 Cain Road, Tampa, FL 33625 • 813-962-3089

FOR F OR S SERVICE ERVICE WITH WITH COMMUNION COMMUNION

Att Atonement A Atonement Lutheran Lutheran Church Church 2 9617 St. St. Rd. Rd. 54, 54, Wesley Wesley Chapel Chapel 29617

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SUNDAY S UNDAY W WORSHIP ORSHIP 9 9:30 :30 A.M. A.M. & 11:00* 11:00* A.M. A.M.

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December 15, 2021

5B

Health

&

Wellness Send health news to news@lakerlutznews.com

MEDICARE 101

The New River Library, 34043 State Road 54, will offer a Medicare 101 session on Dec. 16 at 10:30 a.m.

Staff from SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) will provide an overview of the parts of Medicare, including Parts A, B, C, D, Medigap, and available financial assistance.

For information, call the library at 813788-6375.

COURTESY OF NEWSOME STUDIO

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s senior leadership team throws shovels of dirt during a groundbreaking ceremony for the hospital’s new medical tower.

New state-of-the-art medical tower

DEMENTIA EDUCATION

Beach House and Life Church will host Teepa Snow, a leading advocate and educator for anyone living with dementia or other forms of brain change, on Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Beach House Assisted Living & Memory Care, 30070 State Foad 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Snow is an occupational therapist with more than 40 years of varied clinical and academic experience, medical research, and first-handing caregiving experiences.

Her company, Positive Approach to Care (PAC), was founded in 2006 and now collaborates to improve dementia care in more than 30 countries.

For information on this day of education and training, call 813-508-6677.

For more about Snow, visit TeepaSnow.com.

ACCESS HEALTH ADDS STAFF

Access Health Care Physicians has welcomed new medical personnel to its staff.

• Dr. James W. Craig III comes to Access Health after completing his residency at

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, recently broke ground on a multi-phase state-of-theart medical tower addition.The $82 million project will expand capacity, helping the hospital stay ahead of the health care needs of the growing community and the West Florida region, according to a news release.

HCA Healthcare, USF Morsani College of Medicine, GME: Citrus Memorial Hospital in Inverness.

• Dr. John Ameen Jr., joins Access Health after completing his internal medicine residency at HCA/USF Morsani College of Medicine, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point.

Both Dr. Craig and Dr.Ameen will practice at 5350 Spring Hill Drive in Spring Hill.

• Dr. Francis Mercado joins Access Health after completing a post-graduate internship in the Hospital Auxillio Mutuo in

Expected to be complete in midyear 2023, the tower will expand the number of inpatient beds, by 102 beds. This incudes the new Comprehensive Medical Rehabilitation Center, which will provide 30 private patient rooms with associated therapy spaces.

The second and third floor of the tower San Juan, Puerto Rico, where he actively worked the front lines during the COVID19 pandemic.

Dr. Mercado will practice at 13235 State Road 52, Suite 102, in Hudson.

SAVE THE DATE, FOR HOSPICE

The 10th annual Hittin’ the Road for Hospice, a motorcycle poker run to raise money for Gulfside Hospice, is scheduled for Feb. 19.

Registration is open now for groups and single riders.

will add 72 private patient rooms and support areas.

All systems and equipment are being upgraded for energy efficiency, and reflect current design trends in health care.

The project is underway, so the main entrance to the hospital is on the east side of the hospital, Entrance D. Several motocycle clubs are gearing up to raise funds and compete for the Wings & Wheels Award, given to the top fundraising team at the event.

The run will start at the HarleyDavidson New Port Richey and end at the Moose Lodge in Zephyrhills.

All event proceeds will benefit Gulfside Hospice, and provide hospice care and resources for patients and families in Pasco County.

For information and to register, visit HittinTheRoadForHospice.org.

The Laker/Lutz News likes to keep our readers informed about available classes, seminars, lectures and events regarding health and wellness issues. Hospitals, doctors, individual practitioners and anyone related to the health care industry can submit information, to be considered for publication. Photos of events, recognitions and so on, also are welcome. Submissions should include who, what, where, when, cost, contact information, identifications for individuals in a photo (unless it is a large group), and a photo credit. This information should be emailed to news@lakerlutznews.com.

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Be safe, and merry, this holiday season The Laker/Lutz News Staff Report Here is a compilation of safety tips, from various sources, to help you enjoy a safe and festive holiday season: Christmas Tree Fire Safety Tips The National Fire Protection Association suggests these steps to reduce the risk of a Christmas tree fire in your home: • Choose a fresh, healthy tree with green needles that don’t fall off when you touch them.

• Before placing the tree in its stand, cut about 2 inches from the base of the trunk.

This will help the tree to draw up water.

• Check the water level in the stand daily and be sure to keep the tree well-watered.

• Keep the tree at least 3 feet away from any heat source, such as a space heater, candle, fireplace or heat vent.

• Be sure that your tree does not block an exit.

• Use only decorative lights that have the label of a recognized testing laboratory.

• Be sure light bulbs, strings and connections are not broken or damaged in any way.

• Turn out tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

• Dispose of tree after Christmas, or when it is dry.

• When disposing of tree, keep it away from your home or garage.

Shop safely Tips from the Tampa Police Department: • Lock your car doors to prevent quick access for burglars.

• When possible, shop with a companion, especially during the evening hours.

• Stay alert to your surroundings when walking to and from your vehicle.

• Have your keys in your hand when you are walking to your vehicle.

• Park in well-lit parking lots.

• Avoid parking next to large plants or shrubbery, where criminals can hide.

• Keep valuables out of sight, in your vehicle and your home.

• Take only the credit card or number of checks you plan to use.

• Dispose of boxes or containers carefully, to avoid ‘advertising’ purchases.

• Report any suspicious behavior by calling 9-1-1, remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Choosing toys, shopping online Tips from the Consumer Product Safety Commission

When choosing toys: • Follow age guidance and other safety information on the toy packaging and choose toys that match each child's interests and abilities.

• Get safety gear, including helmets, for scooters and other riding toys – and make sure that children use them.

• Keep small balls and toys with small parts away from children younger than age 3, and keep deflated balloons away from children younger than age 8.

When buying online: • Buy from stores and online retailers that you know and trust.

• Scrutinize the product, the packaging and the label to avoid buying counterfeits. If the price seems to be too good to be true, that is a sign it could be a counterfeit.

• Look for a certification mark from an independent testing organization and look for the manufacturer’s label on electrical products.

Food safety tips Whether you are having a holiday gathering, or not, it’s always a good idea to keep in mind the four steps of food safety, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Agriculture: • Clean: Clean hands, surfaces and utensils with soap and warm water before

cooking.Wash hands for 20 seconds before and after handling raw meat and poultry.

After cleaning surfaces raw poultry has touched, apply a sanitizer.

• Separate: Use separate cutting boards, plates and utensils to avoid cross-contamination between raw meat or poultry and foods that are ready to eat.

• Cook: Confirm foods are cooked to a safe internal temperature by using a food thermometer.Turkey should be cooked to 165 °F, as measured in three places — the thickest part of the breast, the innermost part of the thigh and the innermost part of the wing.

• Chill: Chill foods promptly if not consuming immediately after cooking. Don't leave food at room temperature for longer than two hours.

Help p us meet the need d in Pasco County y. Let your y love shine this holiday season by volu unteering at the holiday y tent, hosting a donation drive, donating foods or toys, or don nating at metromin.org.

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Tues Wed Sun

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December 15, 2021

7B

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8B

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Please call 813-760-6421 to identify by description.

AUCTIONS

LIEN SALE NOTICE

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$$$

GENERAL EMPLOYMENT

CASHIER NEEDED

REWARD $$$

LOST WEDDING RING Lost wedding ring while shopping.

Location: In the parking lot of Total Wine and More in Wesley Chapel, Florida.

If found please contact Dawn at 813-431-8697 or you can return it to the nearest police station.

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Marjorie’s Flea Market

Fictitious Name Notice Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the name

Hwy 301 & SR 50 Ridge Manor Open 8am­2pm Sat, Sun & Mon. Spaces available for Rent Inside & Outside FOR INFO CALL

“Community News Publications” intend to register the name with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pasco County, Florida.

863 242 9256

STREET MEDIA, LLC - 100% OWNER 3632 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Ste 102, Land O’ Lakes, FL 34639

LEGAL NOTICES

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Fictitious Name Notice

Fictitious Name Notice

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the name

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned, desiring to engage in business under the name

“The Lutz News”

“The Laker”

intend to register the name with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pasco County, Florida.

intend to register the name with the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Pasco County, Florida.

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The LAKER / Lutz NEWS Contact Ken at ken@floridacirc.com or 813-421-2472 FOR SALE

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* Only $23.99 (reg. $37.99) plus $5.99 shipping and handling per pack to 48 contiguous states. Some restrictions may apply. IC: H2YF35

Fictitious name notice? Job to post? Room for rent? Garage or yard sale?

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9B

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