The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Brian Fernandes

Pasco organization assists youths on road to success

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When high school student Sherman Milton entered the Pasco County’s Take Stock in Children program, he had no idea the impact it would have on his life.

Through the program, he gained access to academic resources, and a mentorship, which helped him to graduate from high school — which then led to college and, now, a career in real estate in East Pasco County.

He recently shared his experience at a Take Stock in Children fundraiser.

Take Stock in Children has been mentoring at-risk students for more than two decades to help them become successful academically.

Gina Granger, left, Rosanne Heyser, Kayla Conologue and Nikii Lewis of Take Stock in Children of Pasco County, showcase their Luminary Award. The organization was recognized for its exceptional work in aiding Pasco County students for the 2017-2018 school year. (Courtesy of Take Stock in Children Pasco County)

Established in 1995, the statewide organization serves all 67 counties and is funded by the Department of Education.

“What our program does is incentivize our students to continue reaching their goals,” said Rosanne Heyser, executive director of the Pasco County branch. “We are there to provide their motivation – a road map to their success.”

To help make this happen, Take Stock has partnered with various institutions, such as educational foundations and businesses.

While there is one umbrella organization, each county has a branch in conjunction with its school district, which may operate by different guidelines.

Selecting a child
Pasco County’s program focuses on preparing eighth-graders, as they’re on the verge of high school years.

The program invites guidance counselors from both public and charter schools to train them on how to identify eighth-graders who have academic or economic hardships.

In some cases, students come from homes where parents work multiple jobs and are unable to dedicate sufficient time to their children, Heyser said.

Counselors recommend these students to Take Stock in Children.

Students, along with their parents, can sign a contract to remain in the program throughout high school – providing they meet program criteria.

Under that criteria, a student must be on free or reduced school lunch, maintain a 2.5 grade point average, must demonstrate exceptional attendance and behavior in school, and must participate in Take Stock events.

Once they enroll in high school, students who participate in the program have access to a wide range of resources.

Program staff frequently interact with students, hold educational workshops, monitor grades and stay in contact with parents.

Because of the collaboration with district schools, the program is aware of students who are experiencing declining grades, and the program can intervene to create a success plan for students to improve their performance.

College readiness coaches also help students prepare for collegiate life.

“By doing that combination, we really get to know these kids quite well,” Heyser said.

A constant, friendly face
Mentors also help.

These volunteers are trained to effectively communicate with students, find common interests and help them with schoolwork.

Mentors play an important role, Heyser said.

“It can create a huge impact on a student by just having somebody that is [an] adult role model to talk to,” she added.

Mentors meet with their proteges on school grounds, typically during lunch or a study hour.

They are asked to identify a student’s talents or interests and to encourage them to think about how to turn their niche into a practical career.

Team projects include helping students create mock resumes and cover letters – practice that will come in handy when they enter the workforce.

The teaching goes both ways between mentors and students.

In April, students who are now in college will be reuniting with the mentors they had in high school during a Take Stock in Children event in Pasco.

As part of a panel, they will provide insights to mentors who are helping current teens prepare for college life.

Higher learning
When Take Stock in Children began in Florida, its sole purpose was to increase the high school graduation rate, Heyser said. And, over the years, it has been highly successful — increasing the graduation rate for students in its program to 96 percent.

However, Take Stock has shifted its focus to helping students in its program to enroll in college and have the skills necessary to graduate from college.

“Our newest goal that was created this year is to have a 96-percent college graduation rate,” Heyser mentioned of the program’s intentions.

Right now the graduation rate for Take Stock college students is at 67 percent.

She admitted that it’s a challenge but one that can be achieved – considering what has been accomplished this far.

At the collegiate level, students are assigned a college completion coach who helps find resources addressing any academic or financial needs.

And, while away at school, students must still stay in contact with the program – submitting their grades every year for review.

Although the willingness may be there, the cost of college is a major obstacle for many students, which can prevent them from continuing their studies.

The program partners with many organizations, which provide scholarships.

The Pasco program receives donations and has mentor volunteers from the Zephyrhills Rotary Club, the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce, the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce, and others.

The organization also has an agreement with the Florida Pre-Paid College Foundation, which matches dollar-for-dollar the amount that donors contribute.

“That’s how we can afford to have so many students partake of this,” Heyser said.

Light at the tunnel’s end
After college graduation, Take Stock in Children alumni often stay in touch with the organization.

Many speak at events, offering their personal testimonies.

It gives staff and mentors an opportunity to see firsthand the kind of impact the program can have.

That’s where people like Milton come in.

He recently spoke at a fundraiser, encouraging donors to help students who are in the kind of situation he was in.

He’s just one of the alumni who has used the opportunities the program offers to prosper.
Another former alumni is now a Pasco County lawyer, with prospects of making partner at a law firm.

During her 15 years with Take Stock in Children, Heyser said she has witnessed the incredible perseverance youths possess, despite the odds against them.

“We literally see miracles happen,” Heyser said. “We have kids who are in wheelchairs and have physical disabilities in addition to the economic challenges they face.”

Outside Heyser’s office there’s a bulletin board with photographs of students who have come through the program.

She can point to a face, recall the name, and talk about the individual’s journey.

As she recounts their achievements, her eyes fill with tears.

In a nutshell, supporting such transformations is what Take Stock in Children is all about.
To become a mentor, or learn more about the program, visit TakeStockInChildren.org.

Published March 06, 2019

Celebrating diversity through literature

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As Kaila McAlpine spoke, her passionate tone filled the gymnasium, captivating the audience.

She was among a host of students and faculty members taking part in the Wiregrass Ranch High School’s Poetry Slam on Feb. 22.

With “Diversity Rules” as the theme, participants could share a poet’s work, or deliver their own literary creation, on stage.

The Poetry Slam on Feb.22 offered both students and faculty of Wiregrass Ranch High School a platform for reading literary work – and, in some instances, works they created. (Brian Fernandes)

The school’s Black History Club conceptualized the theme and coordinated the second annual event, which was timed to coincide with Black History Month.

“I think diversity was the best way to bring everyone together,” said Averi Willins, vice president of the club. “Black history shouldn’t just be for black people. I feel like it’s an awareness for everyone.”

Willins, along with club president Sa’Derrica Tate, welcomed the audience before Fiona Williams, of Saint Leo University, performed the national anthem.

A special tribute was given to Jimmy DuBose, a former assistant principal at Wiregrass Ranch, who also made an appearance at the event.

Posters displaying the faces of prominent African-American writers, such as Langston Hughes, Tupac Shakur, Alice Walker and James Baldwin, among others, flanked both sides of the stage.

Rose Daniels recited “My People” by Langston Hughes – conveying the value of humanity through the wonders of astronomy.

“The night is beautiful, so the faces of my people,” the sophomore recited. “The stars are beautiful, so the eyes of my people. Beautiful also, is the sun. Beautiful also, are the souls of my people.”

In another piece, Juanita Lamprea Garcia also spoke on the constellation of stars as they relate to people. The writing expressed that while each star is different, they all work together to brighten the dark sky.

One literary work used the analogy of a seed to emphasize the importance of human growth – breaking free from its shell in order to flourish.

Another drew a comparison between people and crayons: a diversity of colors, opposed to just one, combine to make a picture complete.

Even Wiregrass Ranch’s Principal Robyn White offered words of inspiration.

In the poem “You Stand Out,” she spoke of a world where unity outshines individual differences.

“What really stood out in that poem, was the commonalities that we all have – things that we enjoy.

Between poetry readings, the Wiregrass Ranch High step team displayed their unique marching style.

“No matter who we are or what we stand for, these are all beautiful things in our lives,” the principal said.

During an intermission, the school’s step team, led by McAlpine, put on a lively presentation.

The gym echoed with rhythmic hand claps and foot stomps as the team performed their march with precision.

With an energized crowd, the presenters kept the momentum going as they continued to speak with emotion.

William Cuebas presented another literary piece that told the story of a person’s introspective journey in life – peacefully interacting with different ethnicities.

The 16-year-old said he found this reading compelling because it exemplifies how society should coexist.

“We should be treating ourselves not only as equal, but we should celebrate our differences,” Cuebas stated.

After reading a quote, Wanda Diehm took the time to commend Wiregrass Ranch High.

“We do diversity here so well,” the social studies teacher said. “I see it in my classroom, in the hallways, in the cafeteria, and I love it.”

Writer Charles Bennafield’s words were eloquently recited as Willins read “I Am Diversity.”

“My name is Diversity and yes I stand tall,” the senior quoted. “Recognize me and keep me in the mix. Together there’s no problem that we can’t fix.”

Willins stated that the poem was moving because it gave her the opportunity to look at diversity not only as a concept, but as a person.

McAlpine admitted that poetry helped her discover a newfound appreciation for literature.

“When I write poems, I draw from my emotions and my perspective,” the 16-year-old explained.

That was evident as she presented her own literary work “Blend” at the Poetry Slam.

In the poem, McAlpine expresses her views as a young African-American lady while encouraging everyone to “blend” as one people.

Cuebas also acknowledged “Blend” stating that it “really took the crowd by storm.”

He added that, “Art is a way of presenting concern, our creativity, opening our imagination, and I feel like that’s what we’re doing with this.”

Published March 06, 2019

Session highlights area roads

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Pasco County residents had the chance to gain insight on three local road projects at a Feb. 26 open house presented by the Florida Department of Transportation.

The state road department officials fielded questions from residents during the session at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, in Wesley Chapel.

Residents could view poster boards and watch videos to learn more about these three projects:

  • The Diverging Diamond Interchange connecting State Road 56 with Interstate 75 in Wesley Chapel.
  • The State Road 56 extension from Meadow Pointe Boulevard to U.S. 301
  • Widening Old State Road 54 east of Curley Road to east of Morris Bridge Road

While residents appeared to be interested in all three projects, the Diverging Diamond seemed to attract the most attention.

“This is the one that matters most to me,” said Lee Anne Pete, noting she drives in the State Road 56 and Interstate 75 area “every day, at least once.”

John McShaffrey, left, of the Florida Department of Transportation, informs Mike Lin on the operation of the Diverging Diamond Interchange in Wesley Chapel. (Brian Fernandes)

Since she and her husband moved to the area a decade ago, they have witnessed the growing development along State Road 54 and State Road 56.

The Wesley Chapel resident said she often gets stuck in traffic congestion on the northbound ramp leading onto State Road 56, from I-75.

One comforting solution for Pete is a third lane being added to the ramp leading west onto the State Road 56 bridge.

Currently, the 2-mile ramp branches off: Two lanes head west on State Road 56 and two lanes head east.

Greg Deese, FDOT resident engineer said: “This has been a long time coming in regard to congestion relief. We’re hopeful that’s what this is going to accomplish.”

Since construction began in January, workers are continuing to install drainage pipes under the southbound ramp heading onto I-75 and the northbound ramp heading onto State Road 56.

This, in conjunction with a lane expansion on the northbound ramp, may result in future lane closures.

However, any closures will continue to occur only at night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

The next phase will be reconfiguring lanes on State Road 56 to crisscross before reaching the bridge, Deese said.

“Most of the time, you’re going to see during traffic shifts [that] they’re going to be working behind concrete barrier walls,” the engineer added. “You’re going to see the construction, but they’re not going to close lanes – especially during the day.”

The state transportation department projects that impacts to normal traffic flow will not be an issue whether traveling on or off the bridge.

Although the reception has been generally positive regarding the interchange, there are those who have expressed their concerns.

Mike Lin is somewhat skeptical of the added traffic light where the northbound ramp leads east onto State Road 56.

Currently, traffic on the ramp merging eastbound onto State Road 56 becomes congested even with no stop light present.

With the addition of the light, the New Tampa resident fears it will only worsen an already existing problem.

And, while the state transportation department assures that the bridge will not need to undergo an expansion for additional lanes, Lin has doubts about that, as well.

“How do you get it to fit in the existing bridge?” Lin asked. “Unless you’re going to make the lanes narrower, I don’t know how you do that,” he added.

The project plans to have three lanes heading eastbound on the State Road 56 bridge.

Westbound traffic will hold six lanes as studies show there is heavier activity on that route.

The $33-million interchange project is set for completion in late 2021.

Another road project featured at the meeting was the extension of State Road 56, from Meadow Pointe Boulevard in Wesley Chapel to U.S. 301 in Zephyrhills.

The $59.2-million project is of much interest, as it creates a direct link from Wesley Chapel into Zephyrhills.

Along State Road 56, pedestrians will be accommodated with a multipurpose trail on the south end, a sidewalk on the north end and bicycle lanes on both ends of the road.

The 6-mile project is expected to be completed later this year.

Another project featured at the open house involves the widening of Old State Road 54, east of Curley Road in Wesley Chapel to the east of Morris Bridge Road in Zephyrhills.

The 4.5-mile project will expand Old State Road 54 from two lanes to four lanes, divided by medians.

A sidewalk will be added to the north end, while a multipurpose trail will be added to the south end.

The $42.5-million project is expected to be complete by mid-2021.

Published March 06, 2019

Dogs’ Day set for furry fun in the sun

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Owners and their canines will have the chance to display some team effort at the annual Dogs’ Day in Dade City event on March 16.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the function will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The day will have a host of fun activities designed for patrons and their furry friends to work collaboratively.

Once again ‘man’s best friend’ will be the center of attention at the 10th annual Dogs’ Day in Dade City event on March 16. (Courtesy of dogsdayindadecity.com)

At 10 a.m., the Dog Wagon Parade will allow owners to showcase their dogs in stylish costume.

Owners may also bring their own custom-designed wagon for their pet to cruise in.

This will be followed by the Dog Costume Contest at 11 a.m., where the best-dressed pooches will be eligible to win prizes.

The noontime K-9 Challenge will encourage owner and dog to work through an obstacle course.

As the newest edition, Bow-Wow Rally will run throughout the event – a game of strategy.

And, if your dog has certain skills to show off, then don’t miss the Canine Got Talent competition at 12:30 p.m.

Owners and their furry friends can prepare to get their faces messy with the Ice Cream/Yogurt Eating Contest at 1:30 p.m.

Local vendors will also be available to offer food, as well as pamper dogs with massages, manicures, treats and clothing.

The event will be at Agnes Lamb Park at 14200 Ninth St., in Dade City.

Proceeds will go toward the Pet Pantry for Love One Another ministries.

For additional information, call Lucy Avila at (352) 424-4972.

Dogs’ Day in Dade City
Where: Agnes Lamb Park, 14200 Ninth St., Dade City
When: March 16 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons can bring their furry friends out for a parade, team activities and food, among other things.
Info: Call Lucy Avila at (352) 424-4972.

Published March 06, 2019

Tampa Bay area ‘Big’ and ‘Little’ honored

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Just three years ago, Howie and Hunter were complete strangers.

But, through the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay program, the two have become best buddies.

In fact, their friendship has earned them the district’s 2019 Big Brother and Little Brother Award.

“It wasn’t something we were striving for, so it made it that much more of a surprise,” said Big Brother Howie Taylor. “It’s quite an honor.”

Often mistaken for father and son, Hunter, left, and Howie are actually good buddies. They were united through the mentorship program Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay. (Brian Fernandes)

They were nominated by their match specialist who initially introduced them in 2016 and believes their friendship exemplifies the kind of relationship the program strives to achieve.

Every year, Big Brothers Big Sisters pairs volunteer adults, referred to as Bigs, with youths, referred to as Littles, around the country.

The key is for a Big to be a positive mentor to a child of the same gender – being a confidant, helping with academics and having fun.

“We don’t just play in the park – we’re learning about volunteerism, citizenship, respect [and] responsibility,” Howie explained. “Apparently that’s something that other people are looking at and saying ‘Hey, that’s cool stuff that you’re doing.’”

Before meeting Hunter, Howie said he’d suffered the passing of his younger brother, Chris, in 2014.

Howie and his wife also became empty-nesters, when their two daughters moved away from home.

So when the 52-year-old spotted a flyer for Big Brothers Big Sisters at a local Dairy Queen, he was curious.

He decided to attend a volunteer orientation and was instantly hooked.

“This sounds like an amazing idea,” Howie thought to himself. “This is going to fill that void I had in my life.”

The program’s match specialist soon paired Howie with Hunter – a then shy 13-year-old with an affinity for video games.

Hunter also had experienced a shift in his family: His older brother had left home for college.

Howie initially met Hunter and his family at their Land O’ Lakes home.

Hunter recalls that first meeting.

“There was a strong bond from the beginning, but it got better over time,” Hunter said.

For their first adventure, Howie found a way to get Hunter more engaged outdoors.

He took him to a local park in Land O’ Lakes to fly a drone — something Howie uses in his work.

Hunter was more than happy to take the drone for several spins.

“I’m a programmer by trade,” Howie said. “Obviously I swell with pride when it’s something he’s interested in, too.”

Since then, Hunter’s Big has helped him to see there’s a whole outdoor world waiting to be explored.

They have enjoyed deep sea fishing together, have attended charity walks, have gone to amusement parks, have watched baseball games and have gone to concerts, to name just some of their activities.

They’ve also adopted a signature look: Wearing fedora hats just about everywhere they go.

And, Howie got Hunter involved with the Krewe of Blackbeard’s Revenge – an organization that raises funds for charities every month.

The group also participates in the Gasparilla Kids’ Parade – where the two brothers dress in full costume.

“He makes a great pirate,” Howie said, with a chuckle.

Food is another common interest for the Big and Little.

They took a six-week cooking course, allowing them to prepare and taste new recipes.

They acknowledge that, as pizza lovers, they were reluctant to add spinach as a topping, but they said, the taste grew on them.

While they enjoy having fun, Howie is also ready to help Hunter with homework so he maintains good grades.

“I was struggling with ASL (American Sign Language),” the teen recounted. “We both watched it together and figured it out.”

Howie said that he wants Hunter to become a well-rounded adult.

He takes Hunter to autism and cancer walks not only to be charitable, but also to help him develop a sense of gratitude for what he has in life.

The mentor also teaches the importance of financial responsibility and punctuality.

But, Hunter isn’t the only one on the receiving end.

Howie has also learned valuable lessons, too. The friendship has helped him to become more patient and a better listener.

“I wait for him to ask for advice,” Howie said. “Sometimes he doesn’t need somebody to solve a problem for him. Sometimes he just needs somebody to listen to him.”

He also credits Hunter for giving him a chance to feel like a kid again.

During their three-year friendship, Howie has watched Hunter grow physically, and in other ways, too.

“I saw a lot of myself, when I was that age, in him,” Howie stated.

Later this year, the pair will attend a Big Brothers Big Sisters bowling event.

Such fundraisers help raise money, but state funding is needed, too.

Howie plans to visit Tallahassee to speak with legislators, to seek more state assistance for the program.

Both Howie and Hunter are also looking forward to being recognized at an awards ceremony in September.

Both plan to don tuxedos.

They’re also now eligible to compete for the Big Brother and Little Brother national award.

No matter how that goes though, they both feel like they’ve already won the best prize: The mentorship program may have brought them together, but they’re confident they’ll be lifelong friends.

To learn more about the Bay Area program, visit BBBSTampaBay.org.

Published February 27, 2019

Taking a blast into the past at Zephyrhills Founder’s Day

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Get ready to travel back in time, exploring Zephyrhills history during the Founder’s Day Parade and Heritage Festival on March 9.

Celebrating the community’s 109th year, the event will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the theme “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” – the evolution of transportation in Zephyrhills.

The parade is set to begin at 10 a.m., showcasing vintage automobiles, decorations and a marching band along Fifth Avenue.

These Model T Fords rolled down the road during a previous Founder’s Day celebration in Zephyrhills. (File)

From noon to 4 p.m., guests can sit by the Hopkins’ family porch and take a trip down memory lane — through accounts shared by various storytellers, including Zephyrhills Mayor Gene Whitfield.

At 2 p.m., a beard and mustache contest is scheduled at 4/One: The Gentlemen’s Quarters barbershop.

Contenders have the opportunity to win prizes, including cash, for their unique facial hair.

There also will be rows of vendors offering items, such as arts and crafts, as well as information about businesses. A plant expo also is planned.

Hungry patrons can get their fill from various food trucks, including a new offering this year: Gyros for Heroes.

The slate of entertainers includes The Time Travelers, the Chipco Creek Band and the Country Jam Band.

Kids can show off their skills through chalk drawing, and there will be hayrides for them to enjoy, too.

The function will be at Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., and will proceed further into Downtown Zephyrhills.

Proceeds will go toward local businesses and nonprofit organizations.

Admission and parking are free, and pets are welcome.

To register for the beard contest, the parade, or as a vendor, visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org.

109th Founder’s Day Parade and Heritage Festival
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
When: March 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: This year, the festival aims to inform and entertain guests with Zephyrhills history, featuring planes, trains, and automobiles. The event will have its annual parade, ‘Tales of the Hills’ story time, a beard and mustache contest, as well as food and music.
Info: To register for the beard contest, the parade, or as a vendor, visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org.

Published February 27, 2019

Congestion relief on way for 54/41

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A project is set to begin in mid-March that’s aimed to improve traffic flow at the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41.

Lanes are being modified to provide more room for motorists who are turning left off State Road 54 to head north on U.S. 41, and those turning right off State Road 54 to go south on U.S. 41.

Efforts are underway to lengthen eastbound turning lanes on State Road 54. The project, set for mid-March, will provide more lane room for motorists turning onto U.S. 41. (File)

“There is no widening involved with this project, just lane modification to help alleviate congestion turning north and south onto U.S. 41,” explained David Botello, public information specialist for the Florida Department of Transportation.

Motorists heading east on State Road 54, who intend to turn right or left onto U.S. 41, are sometimes blocked from entering their turning lanes.

That’s because the traffic builds up at the intersection’s traffic signal.

During the first phase of construction, pavement will be removed and new pavement will be installed.

“No lanes will be closed during the day, so traffic should not be significantly impacted,” Botello assured.

No lane closures are expected, but if any do occur, they would be done at night to avoid impacts during peak traffic hours, he said.

Sidewalks and crosswalks are to remain open, and the CSX railway company will provide a railroad crossing flagger at the intersection.

The project also includes reconfiguring the median at State Road 54 and Hunt Road.

The new median will have a separator — which will allow eastbound motorists to turn left onto Hunt Road, and left turns off of Hunt Road onto State Road 54.

U-turns will no longer be permitted for westbound traffic at this median.

The project is expected to cost an estimated $1.1 million, with completion set for this coming summer.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey has been an adamant supporter of the project, which has been in planning for several years.

“This is a temporary solution, but it’s something that won’t take long to implement,” she remarked. “I do believe people will see some relief.”

The commissioner also credits Pasco County Attorney David Goldstein with helping her make the proposal come to fruition – stating it was a team effort.

In addition to being a part of the Metro Planning Organization’s Long Range Transportation Plan, the project is one of the first implementations of Vision 54/56.

The Vision program considers long-term improvements on the State Road 54 and State Road 56 corridor – spanning from U.S. 19 to Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.

For current updates and visual schematics, visit tinyurl.com/yyzangk9.

Published February 20, 2019

Treasure-seekers may discover hidden gems at Lutz Flea Market

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Elaine Pittman is looking forward to the annual flea market at the Old Lutz School.

She’s a staple at the annual event, hosted by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

With her handy magnifying glass, Roseanne Lange carefully analyzes donated jewelry items before deciding a price for them. Lange is one of the volunteers from the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club getting ready for the annual flea market, which will be March 1 and March 2 this year. (Brian Fernandes)

Nicknamed the ‘Plant Lady,’ Pittman will have her signature booth displaying an array of plants and flowers outside.

“Plants have always been my hobby,” the 87-year-old explained. “I had my first garden bed when I was about 11 years old living on Long Island.”

Over the years, she has sold African violets, Christmas cactus, amaryllis and kalanchoes plants of different sorts.

Not far from Pittman’s booth will be the woman’s club ‘juniorettes.’

The teenage girls will be selling baked goods to satisfy hungry patrons.

Rooms throughout the school have been stocked with various goods. Each room has its own theme.

One room displays racks of clothes organized by size, while others offer jewelry,

chinaware and electronic appliances, among others.

Outside, there will be tents showcasing furniture, handbags, shoes, toys and seasonal decors.

Pat Serio, another club member, said “you can’t beat our prices.”

Plus, she noted: “Everything is carefully cleaned, organized and well-priced.”

The club is still accepting donations to help raise money to benefit the woman’s club scholarship program and other local causes. The money that Pittman raises through plant sales is used to benefit Christian Social Services, which, among other things, helps feed the hungry.

Donors who have items they’d like to contribute to the flea market are welcome to drop off items at the school on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. February 27 is the last day to drop off donations.

This year’s flea market will be March 1 and March 2 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Admission and parking will be free to the public.

For additional information, call Annette Bellingar at (813) 482-8183.

Flea Market
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
When: March 1 and March 2, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club will sell clothes, furniture, kitchen appliances, toys, dishes and other items. Baked goods and drinks will also be available.
Info: Call Annette Bellingar at (813) 482-8183.

Published February 20, 2019

Efforts resurface in quest to widen Old Pasco Road

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The Long Range Transportation Plan now includes a project to widen a 7-mile stretch of Old Pasco Road, from State Road 52 to County Road 54, which is also known as Wesley Chapel Boulevard.

The widening had been included in the long-range plan as far back as 2014, but was subsequently dropped.

Now, it’s back in.

The Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization board unanimously approved adding the project to its Long Range Transportation Plan, during the MPO’s Jan. 17 meeting. The long-range plan includes projects within a 20-year time frame from 2020 to 2040.

 

Efforts have resurfaced in a quest to get two-lane Old Pasco Road widened to four lanes. No funding for the project has been identified yet. (File)

Ali Atefi, transportation engineer for Pasco’s MPO, explained the thinking behind the potential widening of two-lane Old Pasco Road, to four lanes.

“The benefit is to provide additional capacity for people — for safety mainly and also time-saving,” Atefi said.

The road now primarily serves motorists heading to their homes, or to Cypress Creek Middle High School.

But, future growth on Old Pasco Road includes the construction of a separate school for Cypress Creek Middle School students, a new Instructional Performing Arts Center and a future business park.

The county recently received a $3 million state grant for a county-initiated project known as the Overpass Business Park. The future business  park is less than a half-mile southeast of the intersection of Overpass and Old Pasco.

The next step toward widening Old Pasco would be to include the project within a five-year window for funding, Atefi said.

Construction for expanding Old Pasco Road was passed by MPO board members on Jan. 17. This came as a response to the road’s current traffic, and future plans to build businesses and another school.

Various sources are being explored for financing the project, Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore said.

“There’s grants that have to do with road construction,” he explained. “We’ll have to look at possibly going to our legislators and FDOT (the Florida Department of Transportation) to see what they can do.”

It’s a challenge, but one worth taking on, the commissioner added – emphasizing that safety is his No. 1 concern.

“There’s increased traffic, including school buses that are going up and down Old Pasco Road,” Moore said.

With this in mind, Moore advocates the addition of sidewalks, bike paths and medians, as part of the road’s improvement.

The commissioner also noted the potential congestion with the county’s plan to build an interchange on Overpass Road.

This separate project will allow motorists to get off of Interstate 75 by way of Overpass Road – intersecting with Old Pasco Road.

The first step toward pursuing the widening project includes the completion of route studies to analyze potential environmental impacts and road alignments. Once schematics are underway, the MPO will determine how much land is needed for the expansion, Atefi said.

It is too early in the process to tell what impacts construction will have on traffic, he added. However, as the project develops, a traffic maintenance plan will be implemented to address any detours.

Published February 13, 2019

Making sense of choices available in senior care

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As a generation of Floridians transition into retirement age, they and their families may have questions regarding what senior care facilities have to offer.

Keystone Place at Terra Bella is providing information to help the public find those answers.

The Land O’ Lakes senior living facility had several open house sessions in January to explain the different levels of care available in senior homes.

Keystone Place at Terra Bella is making efforts to educate the public on the lifestyle of senior care facilities. The Land O’ Lakes center opened in May 2018. (Brian Fernandes)

“In general, we did the topic for what is assisted living; what is memory care; [and] what are the benefits,” explained Arlana Guckenberger, community relations and sales director at Keystone Place.

Many people do not understand the distinctions between different levels of care, she said.

Independent living for seniors refers to elderly people who are self-sufficient and have few or no cognitive impairments.

They tend to be seniors who are on the younger end of the spectrum, and simply don’t want the responsibilities of owning a home, Guckenberger said.

Assisted living facilities cater to residents who are somewhat independent, but have physical limitations that may require help with grooming, dressing or getting around.

There are others who need around-the-clock assistance.

“The memory care community is designed for people with Alzheimer’s [disease] or certain forms of dementia, who being out in a larger population is too much stimulus for them,” Guckenberger said.

While individuals vary, residents with dementia can be agitated by loud noises and other stimuli.

A dining hall is not only a place to eat meals, but to socialize and play games with fellow residents at senior care facilities.

They also are prone to wander off in states of confusion.

In memory care units, residents have free range to move about the community, but for their safety, are secured from leaving the premises.

A physician evaluation can determine the type of residency that works best, Guckenberger said.

Those suffering from cognitive declines may be eligible for assisted living, rather than memory care units, she said.

Others, who are recuperating from severe body trauma, may be placed in skilled nursing facilities, she added.

Admission can be a result of incidents, such as falls or strokes, and are Intended to be short-term.

In some instances, a case manager, along with a physician, may decide that an individual is not able to live alone.

When that occurs, the individual may be referred to an assisted-living facility for long-term care.

Some facilities offer a single type of care, but others, such as Keystone Place, offer independent-living, assisted living and memory care residents.

Helping people to understand the different types and levels of care can help dispel the notion that seniors are stuck in a bed at these facilities, Guckenberger said.

Offering various daily options can help residents remain physically active and agile.

And, besides sharing meals in the dining room, residents congregate for other kinds of gatherings, too.

Movies theaters are one of the amenities that can be found at some senior care living facilities. Keeping residents engaged in daily activities is considered important in senior care circles.

Many facilities have a “Happy Hour” to promote opportunities to enjoy refreshments, listen to music and socialize.

At some senior living facilities, current residents serve as ‘ambassadors’ — welcoming newcomers, showing them around and introducing them to other residents, to help them feel at  home.

Making arts and crafts is another avenue — allowing residents to be productive and showcase their creative works.

At Keystone Place, the warm outdoor pool is a big hit, Guckenberger said, noting, “we’ve found that aqua-fitness is huge.”

There are also field trips, where residents can visit museums, malls or restaurants.

In addition to knowing what types of residencies, care and amenities are available, it’s also important to check into the financial aspects of senior living, Guckenberger said.

At the open houses, Keystone addressed not only insurance plans, but also encouraged seniors to compare expenses related to living at home versus those from living at a senior care facility.

While Medicaid and Social Security may help offset costs, there is still other coverage available – especially for former military.

For instance, there’s an Aid and Assistance benefit available to veterans and their spouses that many are unaware of, Guckenberger said.

Through the Elder Resource Benefits Consulting program, those who have served in the military may be eligible for financial assistance, if they meet certain criteria.

There’s a growing need for these types of living facilities, Guckenberger said.

Keystone Place opened last May, and its independent living section already has a waiting list.

Two upcoming open house sessions are scheduled at Keystone Place, 2200 Livingston Road in Land O’ Lakes, to help people gain a greater understanding of interacting with individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease.

Those sessions are set for Feb. 27 and March 6, from noon to 1:30 p.m.

Lunch will be provided and guests are encouraged to RSVP.

Reservations can be made at (813) 388-2121 or online at KeystonePlaceAtTerraBella.com/RSVP.

Published February 13, 2019