The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

B.C. Manion

Business Digest 01/01/2020

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Mariano named to regional planning council board
The Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council has elected new board officers for 2020, with leaders from Manatee, Pinellas, Pasco and Citrus counties. Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano is new to the board and has been named the planning council board’s secretary-treasurer for the coming year.

 

 

 

 

 

Women-n-charge
Women-N-Charge is a group of professional women who support and assist each other in  managing their businesses more effectively, furthering their professional goals, and promoting their health and financial independence. The group meets on the first Friday of each month, with the next meeting set for Jan. 3, at Plantation Palms Golf Club 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Doors open at 11:15 a.m., with a lunch buffet served at 11:45 a.m., and the meeting to start at noon. Members pay $15 and guests pay $18, if they preregister and pay online. For more information, go to the group’s website, Women-n-Charge.com, or call Nicolosi at (813) 600-9848.

Using the Internet for business
Learn about e-Business and why to get online at this free session offered by SCORE Pasco-Hernando on Jan. 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the SMARTstart East Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 15029 14th St., in Dade City. To register, go to SCORE’s website, PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

How to value your business
This workshop is designed to help people who are interested in buying a business, or those interested in selling one to assess a fair market price for the company. Key topics covered include financial risks, conservation of value, four methods of valuation, and anticipation of business uncertainties. The free workshop is on Jan. 7 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New Port Richey Library, 5929 Main St. To register, go to PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

Profile by Sanford opens
Profile by Sanford has opened a location in Carrollwood, with a grand opening celebration attended by area business owners, chamber members, family and friends, according to a news release. Profile is a weight-loss and lifestyle program tailored to a person’s DNA. The new store is at 14837 N. Dale Mabry Highway in Carrollwood. For more information, stop by or call (813) 497-7212.

New workforce tool
The Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., has launched a new workforce tool for business in Pasco County. The tool features an option for both businesses and job seekers. On the employers landing page, businesses can view a 3-minute tutorial explaining how to get the most from the site. Additional resources include detailed data and information regarding where Pasco’s future workforce is being trained, how many people are being trained, and the level of training they are receiving, according to a Pasco EDC news release. To find out more, check out WorkforceConnectPasco.com.

North Tampa Bay Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Bay Chamber monthly membership luncheon is set for Jan. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Fox Hollow Country Club, at 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity. To register and for more information, go to NorthTampaBayChamber.com, and click on the events tab.

Tax implications for small businesses
Learn how to create federal and Florida business entities, find out about state and local licensing requirements, and learn about federal and state employment taxes, such as FICA, FUTA, withholding and reemployment. The free session is on Jan. 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City. To register, go to PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

Business card exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a business card and brochure exchange at Pizza Villa, 21501 Village Lakes Shopping Center Drive in Land O’ Lakes, on Jan. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. A special priced lunch menu will be available.

 How to Do a Podcast
Learn how to do a podcast on Jan. 7 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the SMARTstart West Pasco Entrepreneur Center, on the first floor of 4532 U.S. 19, in New Port Richey. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

COMMON GROUNDS Pitch series
Apply now to take part in SMARTstart’s Common Grounds Pitch series. At each session, two individuals will be selected for a 5-minute pitch and introduce their business idea to the local entrepreneurial community in Pasco County. Each pitch will be followed by a question-and-answer/feedback session with those gathered. The session will be on Jan. 9 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the East Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 15089 14th St., in Dade City. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

Greater Pasco lunch meeting
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general membership lunch on Jan. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Springhill Suites Tampa North, Land O’ Lakes, at 16615 Crosspointe Run. Call (727) 842-7651 for more information.

Building a Cyber Wall
Learn about securing your networks, data and business during this session on Jan. 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at SMARTstart West Pasco, on the first floor of the building at 4532 U.S. 19 in New Port Richey. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

Chambers gear up for big events
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce are gearing up for big annual events, which occur in January.

The Zephyrhills chamber is getting ready for its 10th annual BBQ & Blues Festival, which is set for Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event features a barbecue competition, live blues music, food, a beer garden, a kids zone, a business expo, a car show, a cornhole tournament and a military history museum. Admission is free; parking is $10. The event is held at 5200 Airport Road in Zephyrhills.

The Dade City chamber is gearing up for the annual Kumquat Festival in the heart of historic downtown Dade City. The event, set for Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., features all things kumquat, a car and truck show, a variety of vendors and live entertainment. The events draws visitors from far and wide to experience Old Florida Southern charm.

 

‘Imagine Christmas’ helps families

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Leslie Egan and Ruby Tillson made their way around the room, checking out gifts on display.

They had lots of shopping to do for the children in their charge.

Egan is a single parent raising three grandchildren — ages 10, 12 and 14.

Tillson is raising a 12-year-old great-niece and two stepsons, ages 8 and 11.

From left: Leslie Egan, Robin Granger and Ruby Tillson take a break during a recent shopping night at ‘Imagine Christmas.’ Egan and Tillson were able to go shopping for holiday presents because they worked volunteer hours, to earn the gifts. Granger coordinates the program, which is offered through Life Church in Wesley Chapel. (B.C. Manion)

Both women were shopping earlier this month in the “Imagine Christmas” store, operated by Life Church, at 6224 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel.

The women were able to select three gifts for each child, with each child receiving at least one gift valued at $25 to $30, and the other two valued at $15 to $20.

There were lots of presents to choose from, from tables laden with stuffed animals, educational toys, cosmetic kits, dolls, purses, basketballs and other items.

The women received the presents at no charge, but they’d already earned them by performing various tasks.

Imagine Christmas works this way: Participants can earn three presents per child by providing seven service hours, which Life Church refers to as Time Exchange hours.

Once a family reaches 21 Time Exchange hours, all of the children receive presents, regardless of how many children there are in the household, said Robin Granger, who coordinates Imagine Christmas.

The Time Exchange can be performed at Life Church or other churches, schools or nonprofit organizations, Granger said.

Pastor Ed Russo said Life Church wants to give people a hand-up, not a hand-out.

“We’re always looking to empower people. We’re looking to preserve their dignity,” Russo said.

This year, “Imagine Christmas” is providing presents for 232 children at Life Church’s Wesley Chapel campus and 50 kids at its Spring Hill campus.

By giving people a chance to contribute to the community, they become part of the community’s fabric, said Granger, who is the chief elf for Imagine Christmas.

Some of the gifts are donated by church members; Granger shops for others.

Shoppers had lots of choices at ‘Imagine Christmas,’ a program which allows people to work volunteer hours, in exchange for holiday gifts for the children in their care.

She also oversees the Imagine Christmas volunteers.

They do everything from validating participants’ Time Exchange hours, to serving as personal shoppers, to helping in the wrapping room and performing other chores.

Participants arriving at Imagine Christmas are invited to enjoy cookies and hot chocolate.

They also have a personal shopper, who helps them find gifts for the children on their list.

After that, the shoppers take their gifts to a wrapping room — to add a final festive touch.

Shoppers taking part said Imagine Christmas helps them to provide a brighter holiday than they could otherwise.

“It’s good. It helps out,” Tillson said.

Egan noted: “Both of us are school bus drivers. For my school district, we were off the week of Thanksgiving, so we don’t get paid that week. And then, we’re off again at Christmas through New Year’s, and we don’t get paid for that.”

Life can get challenging, especially at the holidays, Tillson said.

“It’s pretty hard when you get a paycheck and it’s gone. I only have $30 left this week. I am maxed out,” she said. “It makes me feel good that you can do something to earn stuff,” she added.

Jaquelin Easedo, another participant, also is being able to earn presents for her 3-year-old son, Nicholas, and her 18-month-daughter, Adrianna.

She doesn’t like the thought of getting something for nothing, she said, through a volunteer translator.

Imagine Christmas participants earned their Time Exchange hours in a variety of ways — pitching in at the church’s food pantry at Life Community Center, on Applewood Drive, or collecting toys from church members, or directing traffic for the church’s Thanksgiving in a Box, to name a few.

Egan and Tillson said their faith helps see them through hard times.

“When I’m down on my luck and I need that money, I always pray, ‘Please, help me get it.’ And, it always comes through,” Tillson said.

Egan added: “You know what? God always provides. Just when I don’t know how it’s going to happen, it happens.”

Some of the Imagine Christmas volunteers initially came to the church because they needed help with a water or light bill, Granger said. They did Time Exchange hours, in exchange for the church’s help.

And, then, they stayed on as volunteers, Granger said.

By contributing their time and talents, they become connected, Granger said. “They become family in the process.”

“Even if I didn’t earn presents, I would still love working at the pantry. There’s an amazing group of people here,” Egan said. “I love this church for many reasons. I just think the spirit of Jesus is in this church.”

Christina Edwards, who volunteers for Imagine Christmas” said she’s been on both the giving and receiving end at the church.

“Sometimes, it’s me being compassionate. Sometimes, it’s about — I need the fellowship. I need people to turn to. I love the community center. I love being able to go there when I’m down and I just need a friend to pick me up,” Edwards said.

“This church is my home,” she said.

Published December 25, 2019

Pasco school district raises expected soon

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Union and school district negotiators reached a contract settlement as Pasco County School teachers headed to winter break.

The proposed contract calls for a 3.25% raise for teachers, as well as a number of contract language provisions.

Don Peace, president of United School Employees of Pasco (USEP), covered this year’s contract negotiations between the union the school district in a video, which is available on USEP’s website, USEPonline.org.

“We recently settled our SRP negotiations, with a salary increase of 3.25% to all SRPs with additional monies going to some of our lower paid groups to raise them one level on the salary schedule.

“We also got some very good language provisions in safety and wellness, union rights, leaves of absence and working conditions for our SRPs,” he said.

The school board voted to ratify the SRP contract, which was later ratified by the SRP membership.

Those salary increases should start showing up in late January, with retroactive pay being seen in mid to late February, Peace said in the video.

He went on to describe the negotiations between the union and the school district.

“This past Tuesday night, USEP and the district reached a settlement on the instructional side, which has been somewhat more contentious, since the beginning,” he said.

A major sticking point was a proposal by Superintendent Kurt Browning that called for secondary school teachers to “take on an additional period of work, give up their planning and reduce allocations to fund salary increases for all employees,” Peace said.

Peace rejected that proposal and said the union “would not consider giving up planning periods. Nor, would we negatively impugn any one sector of our population so that others may flourish.”

Peace added: “Being a teacher myself, I understand the importance of what goes during a teacher’s planning period and would never willingly relinquish that right.”

Ultimately, the district dropped that proposal.

The settlement that was reached provides a 3.25% increase for instructional staff, retroactive to July 1, 2019. Of that raise, 1.625% is a cost of living adjustment for all employees and the remaining 1.625% goes to the Pay for Performance pay plan.

Peace also noted: “In one of the biggest language pieces garnered over the last 15 years of this organization, the teacher evaluation process is now spelled out and placed in the contract language. This was a two-year collaborative effort with the district. That result should provide for continuity in the process and take away the threat of year-to-year change in how the evaluation takes place.”

The Pasco County School Board approved the 3.25% raise for non-instructional employees and non-bargaining employees at its Dec. 17 meeting.

The ratification vote on the teachers’ contract is expected in early 2020.

Published December 25, 2019

Capturing community life, through authentic moments

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Dozens of children race to collect colorful eggs at the start of one of the egg hunts during the Out & About Summer Expo. There were egg hunts for both children and adults, and those finding eggs redeemed them for prizes. The Expo took place on April 20, at the Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. (Christine Holtzman)

Whether it’s a community festival, a track meet, the first day of school or an Easter Egg hunt — The Laker/Lutz News presents our readers with a slice of life every week in a coverage area that includes Lutz, Odessa, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills, Dade City and San Antonio.

Our award-winning photographer Christine Holtzman has excellent instincts, top-notch photography skills and a knack for capturing authentic moments.

Here are some of our favorite images from her portfolio in 2019.

We enjoy sharing your stories through our photos and stories, so if you have ideas you’d like to share, or are planning upcoming events, please let us know so we can consider coverage. Our email is .

Fifteen-year-old Gabriel Bishop, left, and 17-year-old Cassie Farrar, both of Dade City, attempt to fly their drones through an obstacle course hoop. Bishop’s drone is shown. This event was part of the Teen STEAM program at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.
Holding several American flags, 3-year-old James McLeod, of Lutz, smiles at his mother, Jeanine, before the start of the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel’s inaugural 9/11 Memorial Mile at the Tampa Premium Outlets. The McLeods were walking in the event to honor some of their first responder family members that survived the terror attacks.
Felecia Harvey, of Dade City, reacts, after a water balloon exploded above her head. Her 6-year-old daughter, Serenity, threw a ball that hit the target, which triggered the device to pop the balloon. This photo was taken during the Family Field Day on June 22, at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City.
Show horse trainer Anne Judd is seen leading Kongo, an 11-year-old Morgan horse, through the center hall of the horse barn, on his way to be fitted with a jog cart before a morning training practice. The horse barn is located at West Coast Morgans in Odessa.
While his sisters participate in the yoga program, William Thompson, of Wesley Chapel, does a headstand against a shelf. The 3-year-old learned how to do headstands from his older sister, Aurora, who used to be in gymnastics. Thompson attended a child yoga event at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.
Anthony Sievert, of Land O’ Lakes, shares a strawberry Italian ice with his 4-year-old daughter, Alicia, on an afternoon in Land O’ Lakes. When asked what makes her dad special, Alicia said: ‘My dad tells me silly jokes, and he reads to me. I like when we play hide-and-seek. It’s my favorite game.’ This photo was part of the Father’s Day feature and was taken outside of the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway.
Thirteen-year-old Kate Frederick, of Wesley Chapel, left, and her 11-year-old sister, Ava, sit on the back of a golf cart decked out with streamers and a message of Lutz pride. The girls are members of the GFWC Little Women of Lutz. This photo was taken during the Lutz Fourth of July parade.
Eleven-year-old Jonah Uilk, of Minnesota, enjoys a cotton candy treat. He was vacationing in Bushnell with his family. He and his mother, Heidi, and grandmother, Diana, were browsing the vendor booths. Ulik, who said he loves cotton candy, thought it was funny that the treat turned his mouth blue. This photo opportunity took place at Raising Cane, a Sweet and Spicy Event, on Jan. 12, at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City.
As the bell rings, signaling the start of first period, students rush to their destinations, as school counselor, Kristine Fewox, center, helps two students find their class schedule. This photo opportunity took place on the first day of the 2019-2020 school year at Cypress Creek Middle High School in Wesley Chapel.
Twelve-year-old Brandon Hwang, of Land O’ Lakes, gets some serious air off of the ramp during an evening of skating and hanging out with friends at the Land O’ Lakes Skate Park.

 

 

Business Digest 12/25/2019

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Business celebrations
The North Tampa Bay Chamber took part in a number of ribbon cutting celebrations in December:

  • Glory Days on Dec. 3, at 28812 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel
  • Hampton Inn on Dec. 5, at 11780 State Road 54 in Odessa
  • AT&T North Dale Mabry, Dec. 12, at 14446 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa
  • Shawn Harrison Associates, Dec. 4, 5331 Primrose Lake Circle, Suite 100, Tampa
  • Apricot Lane, Dec. 12, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
  • Profile by Sanford, 14837 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa

Other ribbon cuttings
The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and the Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce took part in a ribbon cutting recently at the new Hillsboro Bank Ribbon Cutting, on Seventh Street in Dade City.

The Dade City chamber also took part in these ribbon cuttings:

  • The Green Door on 8th, at 14148 Eighth St., in Dade City
  • Sugarshak Design, 14247 Seventh St., in Dade City
  • Dade City Chiropractic, 14122 Seventh St., Suite 2, in Dade City

Commission on the Status of Women
The Pasco County Commission has approved the Women Lawyers of Pasco’s nomination of attorney Jenny Sieg as the organization’s representative on the Commission on the Status of Women. The three-year appointment is effective through December 2022.

North Tampa Bay Chamber luncheon
The North Tampa Bay Chamber monthly membership luncheon is set for Jan. 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Fox Hollow Country Club, at 10050 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity. To register and for more information, go to NorthTampaBayChamber.com, and click on the events tab.

Chambers gear up for big events
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce are gearing up for big annual events, which occur in January.

The Zephyrhills chamber is getting ready for its 10th annual BBQ & Blues Festival, which is set for Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The event features a barbecue competition, live blues music, food, a beer garden, a kids zone, a business expo, a car show, a cornhole tournament and a military history museum. Admission is free; parking is $10. The event is held at 5200 Airport Road in Zephyrhills.

The Dade City chamber is gearing up for the annual Kumquat Festival in the heart of historic downtown Dade City. The event, set for Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., features all things kumquat, a car and truck show, a variety of vendors and live entertainment. The events draws visitors from far and wide to experience Old Florida Southern charm.

 Tax implications for small businesses
Learn how to create federal and Florida business entities, find out about state and local licensing requirements, and learn about federal and state employment taxes, such as FICA, FUTA, withholding and reemployment. The free session is on Jan. 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City. To register, go to PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

Business card exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a business card and brochure exchange at Pizza Villa, 21501 Village Lakes Shopping Center Drive in Land O’ Lakes, on Jan. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. A special priced lunch menu will be available.

How to Do a Podcast
Learn how to do a podcast on Jan. 7 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the SMARTstart West Pasco Entrepreneur Center, on the first floor of 4532 U.S. 19, in New Port Richey. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

COMMON GROUNDS Pitch series
Apply now to take part in SMARTstart’s Common Grounds Pitch series. At each session, two individuals will be selected for a 5-minute pitch and introduce their business idea to the local entrepreneurial community in Pasco County. Each pitch will be followed by a question-and-answer/feedback session with those gathered. The session will be on Jan. 9 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the East Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 15089 14th St., in Dade City. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

Greater Pasco lunch meeting
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general membership lunch on Jan. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Springhill Suites Tampa North, Land O’ Lakes, at 16615 Crosspointe Run. Call (727) 842-7651 for more information.

Building a Cyber Wall
Learn about securing your networks, data and business during this session on Jan. 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at SMARTstart West Pasco, on the first floor of the building at 4532 U.S. 19 in New Port Richey. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

Wells Fargo donates to SMARTstart
Wells Fargo has donated $20,000 to the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.’s SMARTstart program. The program provides tools to help businesses grow.

Aquarium receives donation for coral conservation
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation (“Great Lakes”) (NASDAQ: GLDD), the largest provider of dredging services in the United States, has announced a two-year gift to support The Florida Aquarium’s world-renown scientists in their coral conservation and restoration work.

“Conservation efforts rely on research, development and resources to be successful,” Roger Germann, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium said, in a news release. “The level and speed of R&D needed now to save the Florida Reef Tract is unprecedented. We are grateful that Great Lakes believes in the important work we are doing and making an investment in our research. Their support means we can do more to do our part in trying to save corals from extinction.”

Community health partnership
The Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA is teaming up with Tampa Bay Markets to help improve the health and well-being of the Tampa Bay community.

The Tampa YMCA will greet visitors at upcoming Tampa Bay Markets at The Shops at Wiregrass, Hyde Park Village, Seminole Heights and Carrollwood Village. Participating Ys include the New Tampa, South Tampa, East Pasco, Central City and Bob Sierra North Tampa Family, according to a news release.

Troop 33 honors 11 Eagle Scouts

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An Eagle Court of Honor celebrated the accomplishments of 11 young men recently at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, in Land O’ Lakes.

Each of these members of Troop 33 received the rank of Eagle Scout: Evan Hernandez, Gabriel Vega, Michael Thibeau, Miguel Mockabee, Phillip Morrical, Spencer Huffman, John A. Turbessi, Cesar Arthur Castillo, Ethan Fuhrmeister, Louis Mooney Jr. and Matthew Gansemer.

The rank of Eagle Scout is the highest that a Scout can achieve in Boy Scouts of America.

These 11 Eagle Scouts were honored at the Eagle Scout Court of Honor, presented by Troop 33, at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes. On left, front to back: Louis Mooney Jr., Ethan Fuhrmeister, John A. Turbessi, Cesar Arthur Castillo, Phillip Morrical and Matthew Gansemer. On right, front to back: Michael Thibeau, Evan Hernandez, Miguel Mockabee, Spencer Huffman and Gabriel Vega. (Courtesy of Samantha Petzold/Boy Scout Troop 33)

A video message from Frank Tsuru, chairman of the National Eagle Scout Association, put their accomplishment into perspective: “Rare is there a time when 11 young men are awarded the Eagle award at one time, from a single troop,” Tsuru said.

Still, that accomplishment is just the beginning of what being an Eagle Scout means, Tsuru continued.

He said they will be tested in life.

“As a businessman, it’s easy to be swayed to cut corners, hide some things, or not be fully transparent, in order to get ahead in business. By maintaining the Scout Oath and the Scout Law as your guiding principles, you will maintain honor, truthfulness, and give all of the glory to God for your successes.

“At the end of the day, principle-centered businesses see more successes than business that does not embrace these core principles.

“I want to remind you that your job has just begun.”

Plus, Tsuru added: “I’m asking you to give back and make an impact on a younger scout.”

Families and friends gathered to mark the occasion, at a ceremony that was planned and conducted by Scouts in Troop 33.

It was a dignified event, which began with performances by Roses in the Sawgrass, a choral group that served as a prelude to the program.

Scout John Turbessi, who was among those receiving the rank of Eagle Scout, provided a trumpet call, and members of the Troop 33 Color Guard presented the colors.

There were numerous speakers, including the Hon. Judge Ralph C. Stoddard, who was there to represent Chief Judge Ron Ficarrotta of the 13th Judicial Court.

Judge Stoddard told the audience, “No one understands perhaps better than we do, the consequences of failed parenting, or the benefits of good parenting.

“Here, today, we’re here to celebrate you because of the wonderful things that you have done for these young men and for our community.”

He also read a letter sent by the chief judge: “In achieving the Eagle Scout status, you’ve demonstrated that you are worthy of honor, which we know that you share with your family and troop today.

“Because we understand that this was an arduous task and most worthy of celebration, we join you in commemoration of this achievement.”

Chris McBride, director of youth ministry at Our Lady of the Rosary, was the keynote speaker.

He reminded the Scouts being honored: “You’re not self-made guys. None of us are, here. Be sure to be grateful and to give back.

“Always check in with yourself and say, ‘How am I living? How is my life making a difference for others?’” he said.

Monsignor Ron Aubin, pastor of the church, said “Congratulations to all of our Eagle Scouts. You make Our Lady of the Rosary parish very proud this afternoon. I know your parents are proud. Your Scout leaders are proud. And, I am very particularly proud of each and every one of you.

“You have achieved a significant goal,” the pastor said.

He also told the audience about a book he read many years ago that helped him to realize that the happiest people are those who set goals.

“People without goals become listless. They experience discontent, maybe even depression. It is people who are setting reasonable goals and working toward those goals that find authentic joy in life,” the pastor said.

“I want to encourage you to set reasonable goals on a regular basis. Multiple goals. Goals that you might achieve in the next few months. Goals that might be in the next few years. And maybe even goals that are long-term.

“It’s with moving toward these goals, and striving toward them, that we grow,” he said.

The pastor also thanked the Scouts, noting several of their projects have enhanced the church grounds.

Bob Hall, Scoutmaster of Troop 33, thanked the 19 assistant scoutmasters, the parents and others for their support.

“I don’t want people to think of us as an Eagle factory. Our troop is not about producing Eagles. What we’re about is producing leaders, and putting good leaders into the community,” Hall said.

The Scoutmaster also reminded the young men being honored: “Even though we help you along the way, this is something that you did. Not something that we did for you.”

“The accomplishment is only reached by about 4% that try for Eagle.

“I’m proud of you guys. I’m proud of what you stand for,” Hall said.

He told the audience that the Scouts being honored have different ambitions, ranging from becoming professors, to pursuing environmental science, to becoming lawyers, scientists, computer hackers, a politician and even a sports car designer.

And, three of the Scouts are going to be assistant scoutmasters, Hall added.

“Getting Eagle, it’s in your heart. It’s not the badge that I put on your chest. It’s not the scarf that you’re going to be wearing around your neck. It’s not the certificate that’s signed by somebody famous. Eagle is something that you’re going to carry for the rest of your life.

“And, how you carry that torch is up to you,” Hall said.

In addition to the presentation of the Eagle awards, certificates also were presented from Judge Stoddard and Ben Strakos, of the Knights of Columbus.

Each of the new Eagle Scouts also offered a few comments. Some were funny, and some were touching — but all of them offered a sense of appreciation for the help they received along the way.

Afterwards, there was a reception for the Scouts and guests, followed by a special Mass.

Published December 11, 2019

Eagle Scout stats
Total merit badges: 290
Project hours (personal): 752
Project hours (total): 3,095
Donations (total) $47,519.9

Making a difference
Eagle Scout projects completed by members of Troop 33:

  • Ethan Fuhrmeister restored plantings and benches at the 9/11 Memorial Garden at Freedom High School. He was helped by community members, teachers, sports teams and sports clubs. He comes from a family in which his father, four cousins, two uncles and two great uncles are Eagle Scouts.
  • Evan Hernandez built a Butterfly Garden and Finch Aviary at the Florida Exotic Bird Sanctuary in Hudson. He is grateful to Patricia Norton for the opportunity to beautify the entrance of the sanctuary and provide a habitat for the 30 finches and attract local butterflies.
  • Phillip Morrical focused on creating multiple habitats and nesting boxes for the Florida scrub jay. He built six nesting boxes at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, in Land O’ Lakes. He also provided education to the local community about the plight of the bird and sold nesting boxes to local residents who wanted to help save it.
  • John A. Turbessi, a first generation Venezuelan-American, designed his service project to help Venezuelan families in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis there. He organized a food and supply drive, and with the help of the Our Lady of the Rosary parish community and others, he was able to send  boxes containing more than 1,500 pounds of food, first aid and personal supplies — helping 20 families and 89 people in the process.
  • Gabriel N. Vega enlisted the aid of others to help him construct a Rosary Garden at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, and to purchase a large Virgin Mary statue centerpiece.
  • Spencer Huffman did a project that linked into Gabriel Vega’s Rosary Garden. The two scouts divided a major request by a parishioner, that included a wish list of a 200-foot pathway for the 14 Stations of the Cross in “The Way of the Cross Garden.” The two projects were combined to produce an area of worship.
  • Michael Thibeau responded to Monsignor Ron Aubin’s vision for the landscaping surrounding the church’s newly constructed youth center. The scout took the pastor’s vision and combined it with his father’s landscaping expertise to create a representation of the Garden of Gethsemane at the Mount of Olives.
  • Miguel Mockabee created additional space for the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Pasco at Our Lady of the Rosary church that had been needing space for dignity and privacy of its clients.
  • Louis Mooney Jr. created a GaGa Pit at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church to promote more outdoor recreation for children of the parish and its youth ministry.
  • Cesar A Castillo did a GaGa Pit project at an elementary school in Tampa.
  • Matthew Gansemer helped to refurbish the food pantry for St. Vincent de Paul.

Published December 18, 2019

Former county spray field to become industrial park

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A 99-acre spray field on Old Pasco Road is poised to become an industrial park, which is expected to employ hundreds — under actions approved last week by the Pasco County Commission.

First, commissioners approved a staff recommendation to declare the property as surplus — making it available for sale.

Then, commissioners approved a proposed incentive package to encourage the Rooker Company, based in Atlanta, to create an industrial park on the land.

Commissioners also approved a purchase and sale agreement, providing a variety of conditions are met.

The property is about one-third mile south of the intersection with Overpass Road, which is where an interchange is planned with Interstate 75.

David Engel, Pasco County’s economic growth manager, briefed commissioners on the background of the deal at their Dec. 10 meeting.

Engel said the county received an unsolicited bid in the spring from the Rooker Company, to purchase the property for $2,850,000.

The company had calculated there would be 57 acres of developable land associated with this property, Engel said. Some of the remainder is needed for right of way for the I-75 interchange project and the widening of Old Pasco Road, while there’s also land needed for stormwater retention, there are hydrologic areas and there are designated wetlands.

“After an extensive amount of negotiation, the purchase price proposal has been increased to $3,596,500,” Engel said.

The purchase agreement is contingent upon compliance with the Master Planned Unit Development approved for the site in the spring of 2018, Engel added.

There are three conditions of sale:

  • The developer and the county must enter into a cooperative funding agreement for the first phase of development, which is 400,000 square feet. The total concept master plan is approximately 900,000 square feet of industrial construction.
  • Pasco County must remove the existing decommissioned wastewater infrastructure from the site. It also must regrade the property and install the basins.
  • The company must obtain all necessary land approvals for phase one.

Engel pointed out to commissioners: “The developer will be paying us for land that will be committed to road widening and also for the I-75 interchange.”

In a separate action, commissioners also approved an economic incentive to encourage the company to create new jobs.

County staff recommended $3.7 million in incentives.

“That amounts to $9.25 a square foot, which is the most economical incentive brought to the board so far, since the Penny (for Pasco, which supports economic incentives) was enacted in 2015,” Engel said.

The proposed first phase of the project calls for a 400,000-square-foot industrial park, which represents a $26.5 million investment, Engel said.

The first phase will create 427 direct and indirect jobs, and is expected to contribute to the gross county project, Engel added. “That’s a 13 to 1 ROI (Return on Investment),” he said.

Commissioners also agreed to an amendment to the agreement for sale and purchase that requires the county add to its five-year capital improvement plan — the widening of a section of Old Pasco Road to four lanes, from the south entrance of the property to Overpass Road, to four lanes.

Also, the financing — by a party other than the buyer —for the design, permitting and construction of the Old Pasco segment must be in place, such that the section of the Old Pasco be in place prior to the first certificate of occupancy for individual tenant premises for buildings within the project.

Commission Chairman Mike Moore said “We want to make sure that’s widened.”

Engel also noted that the design for the industrial park is “attractive, tilt-up industrial-style buildings. It’s a scale and prominence that has yet to be constructed here in Pasco.”
Commissioner Kathryn Starkey said  “I’m especially excited about the prospect for manufacturing at this site.”

Cason Bufe, vice president of real estate for Rooker, said the company is a family owned real estate business that began when Jack Rooker developed the company’s first industrial building in Atlanta.

Since then, it has developed and constructed more than 50 million square feet of industrial facilities across the Southeast United States, he said.

Rooker’s son, John, now manages the business and “has set a strategy that has led us to invest in pro-growth municipalities in Florida, South Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia,” Bufe said.

“We have a proven track record in developing business parks of this kind, and public-private partnerships with government entities, and I applaud Pasco County for having the vision to create the Penny for Pasco program, rezone this property and invest in the new interchange at Overpass Road and I-75. Each of those factors was critical to us. We look forward to working side-by-side with the county to attract quality jobs and grow the tax base for Pasco County and its citizens.”

Published December 18, 2019

Encompass Health plans move to Land O’ Lakes

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Encompass Health Corporation has announced plans to bring 179 jobs to Central Pasco.

The company, based in Birmingham, plans to build a 37,000-square-foot facility on about 6 acres in the Bexley Community, off State Road 54, in Land O’ Lakes.

It plans to locate its Central Business Office there, to provide medical billing and collection services to the company’s hospitals in 25 states and Puerto Rico, according to a company statement.

This rendering depicts the planned office for Encompass Health Corporation, which plans to bring 179 jobs to Pasco County. (Courtesy of Pasco Economic Development Council Inc.)

News of the company’s plans was announced at the Pasco County Commission’s Dec. 10 meeting, where the board voted on an incentive package aimed at attracting the company, a publicly traded company, whose shares are sold on the New York Stock Exchange.

David Engel, Pasco County’s economic growth manager, told commissioners that the building will be single-story, with an architectural façade that’s consistent with the design standards for the Bexley master-planned community, Engel said.

“It’s a one-story administrative office building. It’s quite a substantial project. There’s over $15 million in capital investment; 220 direct and indirect jobs; 179 will be working at this facility, at a minimum,” Engel said.

The capital investment includes acquisition of the land, according to county documents.

Engel said the project “contributes more than $10 million a year to the gross county product,” which amounts to a return on investment of more than 10 to 1.

Commissioners approved a $983,000 incentive package to attract the company.

Various features of that package are:

  • A job creation incentive for 117 of the administrative jobs (amounting to $234,000)
  • The mobility fee waiver for Class A office construction (estimated at $329,000)
  • A 10-year ad valorem reimbursement (estimated at $290,000); the first five years will be 50% of their ad valorem payment; and 25% for the back end
  • An employee training grant ($50,000)
  • A waiver of building county permit fees (maximum of $80,000)

Also, because the company falls within the definition of a qualified targeted industry, the county is offering “rapid response team and expedited permitting,” Engel said.

Besides saving time, the expedited process is “a large financial incentive to the applicant,” Engel said.

Bill Cronin, CEO and president of the Pasco Economic Development Council Inc., said ”We’re really excited about this company coming in, right into Central Pasco, creating some wonderful jobs.”

The Pasco EDC executive also noted that this project indicates that master-planned communities, such as Bexley, are started to develop their employment entitlements, thus rounding out the developments.

“Now, this development has true live, work, play at their development. You’ve got residential. You’ve got jobs. You’ve got retail. That means less people, potentially, on the road,” Cronin said.

Diane Daerr, director of Encompass Heath’s Central Business Office, said “we’re really excited about our new operation. The new building will allow us to have a lot of amenities for our workforce. Fitness center. Walking trails.

“We really like the setting of Bexley, and the walking trails and bike trails in that general area.

“You can literally live across the street from where our building is going to be, so we’re very excited about that,”” Daerr said.

Pasco officials have been working to shed the county’s image as a bedroom community, where thousands commute daily to jobs in other places.

“I think there’s something to be said about having a publicly traded company choosing Pasco for location for this regional operation. They will be serving 25 states here, and Puerto Rico. So, this is a real regional footprint for them. And, these jobs are good jobs,” Cronin said.

“As you all know, we’ve been focusing on our life sciences cluster,” he said.

In fact, Moffitt Cancer Center is seeking to boost its share of the state’s annual cigarette tax money to support expanded cancer care and research, both in Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

If the proposal moves forward, the new location in Pasco County would be near the Suncoast Parkway and State Road 52. It is being viewed by local leaders as having the potential to be a catalyst that would transform the Central Pasco landscape.

Cronin said that attracting new companies to Pasco, such as Encompass Health, talent being developed in the life sciences industry will have a place to call home, Cronin added.

Cronin also emphasized the project’s strategic location, near State Road 54 and the Suncoast Parkway, with easy access to Tampa International Airport.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore applauded the company’s decision to locate in Pasco, which he describe as “the fastest growing county in the region, if not the fastest growing in the state and one of the fastest growing in the nation.”

Published December 18, 2019

Business Digest 12/18/2019

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Chamber breakfast meeting
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its breakfast meeting on Dec. 20 from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Seven Springs Golf & Country Club, 3535 Trophy Blvd., in Trinity. The speaker will be from Youth And Family Alternatives, and collections will be accepted for the RAP House Christmas. Donations needed are: Visa, MasterCard, AMEX or Discover gift cards; department store gifts cards; or, cash donations. For more information, call (727) 842-7651.

Women-n-charge
Women-N-Charge is a group of professional women who support and assist each other in managing their businesses more effectively, furthering their professional goals, and promoting their health and financial independence. The group meets on the first Friday of each month, with the next meeting set for Jan. 3, at Plantation Palms Golf Club 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes. Doors open at 11:15 a.m., with a lunch buffet served at 11:45 a.m., and the meeting to start at noon. Members pay $15 and guests pay $18, if they preregister and pay online. For more information, go to the group’s website, Women-n-Charge.com, or call Nicolosi at (813) 600-9848.

Using the Internet for business
Learn about e-Business and why to get online at this free session offered by SCORE Pasco-Hernando, on Jan. 6 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the SMARTstart East Pasco Entrepreneur Center, 15029 14th St., in Dade City. To register, go to SCORE’s website, PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

How to value your business
This workshop is designed to help people who are interested in buying a business, or those interested in selling one to assess a fair market price for the company. Key topics covered include financial risks, conservation of value, four methods of valuation, and anticipation of business uncertainties. The free workshop is on Jan. 7 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the New Port Richey Library, 5929 Main St. To register, go to PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

Tax implications for small businesses
Learn how to create federal and Florida business entities, find out about state and local licensing requirements, and learn about federal and state employment taxes, such as FICA, FUTA, withholding and reemployment. The free session is on Jan. 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City. To register, go to PascoHernandoScore.org, and look under upcoming events.

Business card exchange
The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have a business card and brochure exchange at Pizza Villa, 21501 Village Lakes Shopping Center Drive in Land O’ Lakes, on Jan. 9 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., sponsored by Architectural Signage & Printing. A special priced lunch menu will be available.

How to Do a Podcast
Learn how to do a podcast on Jan. 7 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the SMARTstart West Pasco Entrepreneur Center, on the first floor of 4532 U.S. 19, in New Port Richey. For more information and to register, check the Pasco Economic Development Council’s website, PascoEDC.com.

Honoring those who have gone before

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When Vernon Wynn looks across U.S. 41, he can see the final resting place of dozens of his relatives.

They’re among the roughly 1,600 people buried in Lutz Cemetery, at the corner of U.S. 41 and Fifth Ave., N .E.

The cemetery was established in 1911, and the first person buried there is known only as Mr. Nims, according to local historians. His grave marker is gone, but he is believed to have been buried there in 1914.

A scene from the Lutz Cemetery, as mist rises on a recent early morning. (B.C. Manion)

The plot of land offers a look into the community’s past, with generations of families buried there, and hundreds of veterans, too.

Some grave markers offer a spiritual message: “The Lord is my shepherd,” and “Thy will be done” and, “Every day is a gift from God. Share it with someone else.”

Another states simply: “Gone, but not forgotten.”

Some laid to rest there are widely known throughout Lutz.

Oscar Cooler, for instance, was a champion for youth sports, and there’s a sports complex named for him on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Carolyn Meeker, former president of the Lutz Civic Association, is buried there, too. She was tenacious at Hillsborough County zoning hearings, taking on anyone who threatened to change the character of Lutz.

Ralph Combs, the very first Eagle Scout from Troop 12, is laid to rest there, too, Wynn said.

Wynn, who is president of the Lutz Cemetery Association, has deep roots in Lutz.

“My grandparents came here in 1920,” he said. “Where I live now, is where I was born and raised.”

Kathy Vanater, Vernon Wynn and Bob Jackson are officers in the Lutz Cemetery Association. They’re working to ensure the upkeep of the cemetery, where an estimated 1,600 are buried.

And, it’s because of that affinity for the community that Wynn decided to take an active role in the cemetery association.

The group wants to ensure that the grounds are well-kept, into perpetuity.

Wynn said their aim is: “To make sure that everything is going to be good for the community.”

“It’s paying respect to the people buried there,” said Kathy Vanater, the cemetery association’s secretary/treasurer.

Land for the cemetery was donated to the community, more than a century ago, by C.E. Thomas, who was president of the North Tampa Land Company, according to accounts published in The Tampa Tribune and other local publications.

The company was made up of a group of Chicago landowners who bought about 32,000 acres, north of the city of Tampa.

The original cemetery plot was 230 feet by 80 feet, according to “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters, Crackers …,” a local history book by Elizabeth Riegler MacManus and her daughter, Susan A. MacManus.

Over time, the cemetery has expanded.

“The folks in the community used to take care of the grounds,” Vanater said.

Volunteers gather in 1911 to clear land for the Lutz Cemetery. (Credit: ‘Going, Going, Almost Gone … Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Pioneers Share Their Precious Memories’)

Indeed, according to the MacManus book, when area residents gathered to clean up the cemetery, men would come with hoses and rakes, and women would pack a picnic lunch.

But, by the mid-1950s, the volunteer cleanups had dwindled.

“So, the Lutz Cemetery Association formed in 1956,” Vanater said.

For decades, the organization was low-key.

In recent years, though, a more active group of volunteers has stepped up — completing needed repairs, maintaining the grounds and making plans for its future upkeep.

Dead trees have been removed. The utility shed has a new roof. A replica of the original archway has been erected, and there’s now a cemetery sign.

Over the years, most of the cemetery plots have been sold, said Vanater, a banker, by profession. But, when those plots were sold, the sales weren’t accompanied by perpetual maintenance plans, and now there are just about 75 plots remaining, she said.

So, Vanater said, “we’re trying to keep an income to be able to maintain the grounds.”

To that end, Bob Jackson, the association’s vice president for administration, spent months researching the idea of purchasing a columbarium — which contains niches for urns containing cremains.

Like Wynn, Jackson feels a personal connection to the traditional burial place in Lutz.

“I’m fourth generation. My grandparents are in that cemetery,” Jackson said.

After months of research, he found a company in Canada that produces the kind of columbarium the association found suitable for the cemetery.

The first columbarium was installed at the cemetery in July. It has 64 niches, which can hold two urns each.

The cemetery has plenty of space to erect additional columbariums, depending on the demand.

Besides providing a source of revenue for the cemetery, the columbarium provides additional capacity to serve people who want Lutz to be their final resting place, said Vanater, who joined the volunteer association at the request of a friend, and expected to pitch in for a year. That was nine years ago.

The association, Wynn said, just wants to keep the community’s cemetery alive.

Lutz Cemetery Association Board Members
Vernon Wynn, president
Bob Jackson, vice president
Mary Lewis, vice president
Kathy Vanater, secretary/treasurer
Judi Wynn
Terry Donovan
John Hodges
Tim Goins

Columbariums
For those interested in having Lutz as their final resting place, there’s another option available.

The Lutz Cemetery Association has added a columbarium that has 64 niches. Each niche can hold two urns each.

The new option provides a source of revenue needed to continue the upkeep of the cemetery grounds, and also expands the capacity of the cemetery to accommodate more people who wish for it to be their final resting place.

Each of the niches in the columbarium holds up to two urns, with the cost for the niches ranging from $1,200 to $1,500, depending on the niche’s location in the columbarium.

Anyone who wishes to purchase a niche should contact Bob Jackson, (813) 928-9412 or Vern Wynn, at (813) 293-0263.

Published December 11, 2019