The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Brian Fernandes

Options abound to make 2020 memorable

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It has become a tradition of The Laker/Lutz News to give our readers a preview of what’s in store for the year ahead in terms of fun family outings, affordable entertainment and opportunities to add more color to their lives.

Here’s our look ahead for 2020.

January 
Raising Cane, A Sweet & Spicy Event
When: Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 admission per person
Details: Competitors can share their custom-made sugar cane syrup for a cook off. A chili competition also will take place and pancakes will be provided. Patrons can also sample chili at $3.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

10th Annual Pigz In Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival
When: Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road, Zephyrhills
Cost: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: While live music is playing, a barbeque competition will take place as well as a cornhole tournament. In addition, there will be a business expo, car show and the Kidz Fun Zone. Patrons also can visit the Military History Museum.
Info: Call (813) 782-1913.

 

 

 

15th Annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: On site will be 125 artists and crafters to display their work. Food, live music and street painting.
Info: Visit www.SuncoastArtsFest.com.

Annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: Patrons can purchase all things kumquat including pies, ice cream and cookies, among other foods. There also will be live music as well as arts and crafts.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769 or visit www.DadeCityChamber.org.

 

 

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 for admission
Details: The event will offer a quilt exhibition, a quilt appraiser, vendors and live entertainment.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 17 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 18, Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 21 from 3 p.m. to midnight; Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to midnight; Feb. 23 from noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Pasco County Fairground, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults; $6 for children ages 6 to 12; Free for those age 5 and under
Details: The event will hold a carnival, a rodeo, various foods, competitions and shows.
Info: www.PascoCountyFair.com

Living History, Civil War
When: Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: Feb. 28 – $4 with pre-registration for chaperones and students; $5 at the gate; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and March 1. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both at $10 admission.
Details: Patrons can purchase food and enjoy reenactments of the Civil War. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

March
110th Founder’s Day Parade & Heritage Festival
When: March 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; March 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The 1920s theme encourages patrons to come in vintage attire. There will be vendors, food, arts, crafts and games.
Info: Call (813) 780-1414 or visit www.MainStreetZephyrhills.com.

Flea Market at Old Lutz School
When: March 6 and March 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., both days
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission.
Details: Come and find bargains galore. Items for sale typically include everything from fine china to crystal to collectibles, as well as art works, books and plants.
Info: Visit the woman’s club’s website, GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Savage Race
When: March 14 at 9 a.m. and March 15 at 3 p.m.
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Various obstacle courses will be offered to test competitors’ endurance.
Info: Visit www.SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park in downtown Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons and their furry friends can team up to compete in various activities.
Info: Call Lucy Avila at (352) 424-4972 or email .

Land O’ Lakes Music Festival
When: March 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets as they listen to various bands perform.
Info: Call (727) 842-7651.

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 24
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicyclists can compete through San Antonio during either the 35-mile race, 55-mile race or 100-mile race.
Info: Visit www.GranFondoNationalSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When: April 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Kids can have their picture taken with the Easter bunny, go on an egg hunt, go inside a bounce house and do face painting.
Info: (352) 567-0262.

June
Zephyrhills Summerfest
When: June 6
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: This event will include fireworks, a watermelon eating competition, live music and kids’ games.
Info: Call (727) 674-1464.

July
Lutz Fourth of July Parade and Festivities
When: July 4
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: The event includes a race, an old-fashioned parade, vendors, and the election of the honorary Lutz Guv’na.

October
Rattlesnake Festival
When: Oct. 17 and Oct 18
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: Admission and parking are free
Details: Live entertainment, mechanical gopher tortoise races, vendors, food and children’s activities.
Info: Visit www.RattleSnakeFestival.com.

 

December
Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 12 and Dec. 13
Where: Various Tampa Bay pottery studios
Cost: Free
Details: Visitors stop at a number of pottery studios, to see demonstrations, to meet nationally recognized pottery artists and to purchase unique items.
Info: Visit www.TampaTourDeClay.com.

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally held on the first Sunday of December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St. in downtown San Antonio
Cost: Free
Details: The annual lighting of giant Christmas cards and carol singing.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held the first Saturday of December
Where: Fifth Avenue from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The event includes food, live entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

GFWC Lutz Arts and Crafts Festival
When: Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Keystone Prep, 18105 Gunn Highway, in Odessa
Cost: Free admission; parking fee (which has been $5 in the past) benefits the school
Details: Hundreds of vendors come from across the country to sell unique items at a juried arts and crafts show, which has a festive feel and a family friendly atmosphere.
Info: Visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Held on selective dates in December
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged.
Details: Patrons typically get to tour the school and, for a small charge, there is breakfast with Santa.
Info: Visit www.OldLutzSchool.com.

Published January 01, 2020

2045 roadway plan officially pushes forward

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The Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) board has approved the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan that includes numerous projects that are expected to be pursued within a 20-year time frame.

“The goal is to develop [a] cost-affordable plan that covers a minimum of 20 years through the planning process,” Wally Blain, of Tindale Oliver, told the MPO board during a Dec. 11 meeting at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse.

The evaluation of State Road 54 and U.S. 41 is underway and a part of the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan. This agenda was passed by the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization board on Dec. 11. (File)

The 2045 plan is a revision of the 2040 plan. It prioritizes road in greatest need.

The long-range plan is updated every five years and is subject to revision.

Its feasibility is determined by what funds are allocated on the federal, state and local levels.

The planning process also included a public comment period, from Nov. 6 to Dec.6.

“More than 2,500 residents of Pasco participated in those and provided input on the transportation planning process,” Blain noted.

One comment noted that trucks are traveling faster on Ehren Cutoff, since the road’s shoulders were expanded. Another cited a lack of north-south improvements in Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills compared to east-west improvements. And, there was a suggestion for a train service to connect Pasco County with Orlando and Tallahassee.

While the feedback was noted, priority road improvements must be dealt with first, Blain said.

The 2045 plan includes changes in the way revenues are distributed for transportation-related improvements.

The 2045 plan contrasts to the 2040 plan as follows:

  • Funding for roadway capacity rose from 64% to 71%
  • Funding for transit decreased from 25% to 9%
  • Funding for sidewalks and bicycle facilities increased from 1% to 2%
  • Funding for technology/congestion management rose from 1% to 3%
  • Funding for roadway maintenance rose from 9% to 14%

Projects in the 2045 plan include:

  • Widening of State Road 52 to four lanes, from U.S. 41 to Old Pasco Road
  • A one-way pair conversion, along U.S. 301
  • Widening of U.S. 301 to six lanes, from Eiland Boulevard to Kossik Road
  • Widening of Old Pasco Road to four lanes, from Wesley Chapel Boulevard to State Road 52
  • Widening of Overpass Road to four lanes, from Interstate 75 to U.S. 301
  • Extending Tower Road to U.S. 41

The Vision 54/56 project has $600 million for improvements, but specific changes have yet to be determined.

“State Road 54 is a key corridor that the MPO has taken as a priority in this plan, as well as the 2040 plan,” Blain said.

The MPO has been working along with the Florida Department of Transportation to address the issue.

The state transportation department is conducting an evaluation to determine potential improvements at the intersection of U.S. 41 and State Road 54.

The approved long-range transportation plan will be submitted to the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Transit Administration and the Florida Department of Transportation. These agencies utilize the adopted plan to implement numerous federal and state-funded transportation projects in Pasco County.

In addition to long-range planning, Blain also covered a number of projects that are ongoing and committed in the five-year plan, which runs through 2024.

Those include:

  • Widening of State Road 52 to four lanes from the Suncoast Parkway to U.S. 41
  • Widening U.S. 41 to four lanes, south of State Road 52
  • Ridge Road extension from Moon Lake Road to the Suncoast Parkway (The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a permit to begin work on the project on Dec. 20)
  • Construction of a new State Road 52 alignment, east of Interstate 75 to Clinton Avenue
  • Construction of an Interstate 75/Overpass Road interchange.
  • Widening of Collier Parkway to four lanes, from Bell Lake Road to Parkway Boulevard

Published December 25, 2019

Under Construction 12/18/2019

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(Brian Fernandes)

New performing arts center
Pasco-Hernando State College is constructing an Instructional Performing Arts Center at 8657 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel. The 37,000-square-foot structure will include a theater, dressing rooms, a storage area, a catering kitchen, a lobby, classrooms and office space. It is on the same campus as Cypress Creek High School, and Cypress Creek Middle School, which also is under construction. The new performing arts facility will be used by both students from the state college and Pasco County school district students. The performing arts center is expected to open in Fall 2020.

Banking customers to get new option
The Florida Central Credit Union bank will open a new branch in Trinity. The 4,350-square-foot building, going up at 10175 State Road 54, will include main offices, bank teller stands, three drive-thru lanes and an ATM lane. Construction is expected to be completed in March 2020.

 

 

Plaza to emerge in Odessa region
A retail plaza is being built at 15985 Preserve Market Place Blvd., in Odessa. The building is adjacent to a Publix, which is also under construction. The new retail plaza is the latest commercial development to be erected at the front entrance of The Preserve residential community. The plaza is expected to open in May 2020.

 

Bay Area singer shows opera in a different light

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As a singer, Tatiana Kallmann embraces a not-so-mainstream music genre – pop- opera.

Known also as crossover music, this style fuses modern-day pop songs with classical opera pieces dating back hundreds of years.

The soprano will share this type of music at the Unity North Tampa, on Dec. 23, a church which she has attended, and where she has performed previously.

Tatiana Kallmann enjoys fusing pop music with opera. The soprano singer has graced many stages with her unique sound. (Courtesy of Tatiana Kallmann)

Kallmann, a Colombia native, grew up in a musical household in Tampa.

“My parents do listen to a lot of music. My father is definitely a huge lover of music – different genres, so I listened from classical to rock. Different genres that exposed me to a wider range of musical styles, which maybe other children may not have been exposed to,” she said.

The environment helped her love of music to flourish.

At an early age, Kallmann became intrigued with opera after hearing her best friend sing “Ave Maria,” by the composer Schubert.

“It was very pristine,” she recalled. “I was like, ‘Wow, what is that?’

“I had never heard operatic singing or classical singing before.”

Along the way, the singer said she’s been influenced by Whitney Houston, Lady Gaga, Andrea Bocelli and Adele.

However, hearing pop-opera songs by Sarah Brightman made her want to perform them.

Her voice instructor encouraged her to pursue singing at Blake High School, a magnet school for the performing arts in Tampa.

Next, she received her bachelor’s degree at Florida State University, majoring in music.

She briefly returned to Colombia to record her crossover songs, but it was a decade-long stay in Europe that helped her develop her vocal style.

While there, she received training in Italy, Austria and Switzerland, but the bulk of her additional studies was in Germany.

She was selected in the fall of 2010, from among hundreds of applicants, to become part of the “Opernschule,” in Mannheim University of the Performing Arts in Mannheim, Germany. There, she completed her graduate studies and received a master’s degree in vocal performance.

In Europe, she invoked an emotional response from audiences, whether in a theater or a restaurant, she said.

“I love to feel that I’m having a positive impact on people’s lives,” Kallmann   added. “I really believe that singing is for our well-being – very therapeutic.”

She also became an instructor there and led her own vocal studio.

She worked with inexperienced singers, teaching them not only to sing, but to have confidence while they performed.

Kallmann describes herself as an avant-garde and entrepreneurial opera singer, who has developed an interactive pop-opera performance act.

She typically relies solely on the power of her voice during performances, without the aid of microphones, instruments or sound boards.

That contrasts, she said, to the typical approach.

“Nowadays most productions that are done, they’re done with a lot of tuning. Any piece you hear on the radio is full of auto-tune,” she said.

She’s not opposed to using technology, but she believes it is important for performances to feature the live, natural voice of the singer.

In addition to performing, Kallmann handles her own promotions.

She uses platforms such as Spotify, YouTube, iTunes, Instagram and her website to expose others to her work.

Going forward into 2020, she plans on performing at large venues and also to seek notoriety by performing on television shows.

She also wants to release records that crossover electronic dance music with opera.

As this year winds to a close, she will be performing a pop-opera Christmas concert at Unity North Tampa Church, 19520 Holly Lane in Lutz.

The concert, scheduled for Dec. 23 at 7 p.m., will feature notable Christmas carols. Admission is $25 at the door.

For more information, call (813) 948-4884. To purchase tickets, visit TatianaKallmann.com.

Pop-opera Christmas concert
When: Dec. 23 at 7 p.m.
Where: Unity North Tampa church, 19520 Holly Lane, Lutz
Cost: $25 per ticket at door; Online tickets: $20 a ticket in advance; a $40-VIP ticket for preferred seating and to receive two signed CDs. Free admission for those under age 18.
Details: Pop-opera singer, Tatiana Kallmann, a soprano, will perform numerous Christmas carols.
Info: Call (813) 948-4884. To purchase tickets, visit TatianaKallmann.com.

Published December 18, 2019

Pasco commission combats human trafficking

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The Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking — which has been operating for five years — has been working to combat human trafficking.

The Pasco County Commission passed a resolution in 2014 to form the commission on human trafficking.

That action followed a growing awareness of human trafficking that was taking place in Pasco County, said Liana Dean, chairperson of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking. “Law enforcement and child welfare were beginning to – within their respective sectors – recognize and see that human trafficking was an issue,” Dean said.

The Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking was established in 2014 to address human trafficking within the county. Stephanie Costolo, left, is the commission’s vice chair and Liana Dean is the chairperson. Both are among its 11 members. (Courtesy of Liana Dean)

It’s a problem that spans across the globe, and also hits home here.

The human trafficking commission is made up of 11 members who represent different aspects of the community, including the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, BayCare Behavioral Health, the Pasco County Commission, Pasco County Schools, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, child welfare and the faith-based community.

The commission does not directly interact with victims or their traffickers, but makes referrals when there are reports.

It directs attention toward law enforcement, shelters and the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

“Everything the commission is doing is geared toward awareness, education and advocacy,” Dean said.

That work includes holding public forums.

The community also is invited to ask questions or weigh in with their thoughts or concerns.

Stephanie Costolo, the commission’s vice chair, is a representative of the U.S. Institute Against Human Trafficking.

“Survivors have very different needs,” Costolo said. “They may need to go to drug detox, or they might need a domestic violence shelter environment. They might need a safe home, they might be underage, or male or female.”

In 2016, there were reportedly 40.3 million human trafficking victims worldwide, according to the International Labor Organization.

This figure may be skewed because there are victims who do not report their abuse.

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, in 2017, Florida had the third-highest number of cases reported among states. That figure stood at 604.

The commission urges community members to be vigilant in keeping an eye out for human trafficking victims.

Signs include:

  • Few to no personal possessions
  • Their identification, travel documents or money is controlled by someone else
  • There are signs of malnourishment, dehydration or exhaustion
  • They have bruises, scars or untreated injuries
  • They have been isolated from community, family or friends
  • They are being denied access to medical care and other services

Also, look for this type of behavior:

  • They appear fearful, anxious or submissive
  • They avoid eye contact
  • They are not allowed to speak for themselves
  • They either don’t have an address, or don’t know what it is
  • They appear confused about where they are
  • They lack a sense of time
  • They appear fearful at the mention of law enforcement or immigration officials

Some environments can be red flags, too, Costolo said.

“Strip clubs are hot beds for sex trafficking to be happening in their VIP areas and their lounges, where people can ask for additional services,” she said.

Massage parlors also can be indicators, especially if they’re open 24 hours a day, have bars on the windows or have private parking.

“The International Labor Organization identifies 20 different forms of human trafficking globally. The forms we see most often, in the U.S., are labor trafficking, sex trafficking and domestic servitude – with the labor and sex really being the most predominant forms. Globally, we’re looking at forced marriages [and] child soldiers,” Costolo said.

Traffickers can take advantage of those who already come from a traumatic background or put fear in those who are undocumented immigrants, she said.

The commission has worked to raise awareness about the problem through social media, public service announcements on T.V., and billboard messages.

The commission also was instrumental in helping to pass a state mandate, implementing a human trafficking curriculum for those in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Individuals who want to help with the cause are encouraged to give donations to the commission or the organizations they collaborate with.

Another opportunity, to learn about the problem, is being presented on  Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Pasco-Hernando State College – Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., in  Wesley Chapel. Register at PHSC.edu/about/events.

While it’s important for community members to be on the lookout for clues regarding human trafficking, they should not directly engage in the situation, Dean said.

“The public’s role is to observe and report,” Dean said. “It is never to get involved. That is potentially dangerous for, not only the individual, but also the potential victim.”

Report your suspicions to local law enforcement or the National Human Trafficking Hotline.

The hotline can be reached at (888) 373-7888 or by texting, 233733 (BeFree).

Learn about human trafficking
What: Salon Talk
When: Jan. 27 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Where: Pasco-Hernando State College – Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch, 2727 Mansfield Blvd., Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free, but registration is required online
Details: Human Trafficking experts and a survivor will inform the public about the global issue
Info: To register, visit PHSC.edu/about/events.

Published December 18, 2019

Zephyrhills offers new online utility service

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Zephyrhills utility customers have transitioned to a new online software in order to view their water consumption and make payments.

“We are going to go from a firm – Fathom – that has provided our services for utility billing, going to MuniBilling, out of North Carolina,” said Ted Beason, of the Zephyrhills Utilities Department.

Zephyrhills has a new MuniBilling portal for its utility customers. It will allow customers to view their water consumption level and make online payments. (File)

The Zephyrhills City Council approved the switch to MuniBilling, which offers the same online portal, just through a different platform.

The change comes after Fathom gave a Nov. 9 notice that it would be going out of business, thus discontinuing services.

The software program became obsolete on Dec. 13.

“When we got that notice, we started to look at other alternatives,” Beason said. “We’ll have a very smooth transition of service with the option that’s been selected.”

The Zephyrhills Utility Department had a public meeting at Zephyrhills’ City Hall Council Chambers on Dec. 11. Those attending were informed about the change and had an opportunity to ask questions.

The utility department was able to turn on or turn off the service, at the customer’s request, on Dec. 13. It was the last day for new customers to activate their utility accounts before the transition.

Dec. 13 also was the final day for customers to make payments before the switch to MuniBilling.

Check payments were only accepted and paid at Zephyrhills City Hall.

MuniBilling became officially operational the week of Dec. 15.

Customers can provide their same username and account number on MuniBilling as they did on Fathom.

There will be no fees to customers in order to make the switch.

For additional information, call (813) 780-0015, or visit ci.zephyrhills/fl.us/161/utility-billing.

For making payments through the new portal, visit MuniBilling.com/solutions/.

Published December 18, 2019

New donation drive set to help foster families

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George Agovino and Josh Gaulden have launched a new initiative aimed at helping foster children.

The pair has established the Fostering Change Foster Closet, in what was formerly a vacant house, at 10207 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

George Agovino, left, and Josh Gaulden stand on either side of the Fostering Change Foster Closet logo. The two established the donation drive for foster families in need of basic supplies. (Brian Fernandes)

The 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is a hub for foster families to pick out free necessities that they otherwise could not afford.

It also will serve foster kids who have not been placed in a permanent home yet.

The new organization will officially open its doors, with an event called “Reconstructing Hope,” on Dec. 14.

Agovino said the point of the organization is to convey a sense of caring for children in foster care.

“Our goal is: We’re going to make them feel that they can come in, they can go shopping,” Agovino said. “Just by having this, you realize how many people care.”

The house, which had not been maintained recently, has undergone renovations in preparation for becoming the Fostering Change Foster Closet.

Multiple rooms have been turned into a free store, which are stocked with baby supplies, clothing, shoes, hygiene products, books and toys.

There’s also a new shed and several trailers, too, where supplies will be stored, as needed. A washer and dryer also will be installed.

Local companies have provided free help to reconstruct the building’s interior and exterior.

Those services included a new roof from 1st Choice Roofing.

Kenneth Phillips, the company’s team member, said that it donates its time and service for worthy projects.

“We instantaneously made them the recipient of our donation for the year and saw that there was a lot more need, and what a good cause it was,” he said.

The house also has new floor tiles, sheetrock and plumbing.

Students from Sunlake and Land O’ Lakes high schools donated their time to organize clothes and put up shelves.

The outdoor walls have been painted blue – the signature color for foster care awareness.

Agovino’s wife, Jennifer, and daughter Catherine-Christina, also helped to paint the organization’s logo on the front exterior wall.

Plans also call for transforming the front yard into a playground for kids to enjoy,  Agovino said.

This service will not be exclusive to foster families in Pasco County, but will be open to other counties, as well.

As a retired law enforcement officer and a foster parent himself, Agovino understands the process that foster children face within the court system.

He was motivated to provide a donation drive to help those kids still in the system or those placed in a home, but still lacking basic needs.

Although the idea was set, there wasn’t a place to provide the service.

Initially, Gaulden helped Agovino get permission to place his trailer on the property where the organization is now located.

Initially, however, the men did not realize there was a vacant house on the land. It  had been hidden by thick brush.

Frank and Joann Hedogous, the property owners, decided to donate the house and property for the organization’s cause.

It has taken several months to clear out the bushes, grass and tree branches overhanging the house and to complete renovations.

Gaulden and Agovino now are working to create an official website for Fostering Change Foster Closet.

The organization also is raising its profile through Facebook and by word-of- mouth.

It wants foster families to be aware of the service, and it wants to encourage the general public to get involved through donations.

The grand opening celebration is set for Dec. 14, at the house, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The public is welcome and there is no admission charge.

There will be vendors, food trucks, live music, raffles and a silent auction.

Kids can enjoy a petting zoo and various games. And foster kids, specifically, will be given toys as early Christmas gifts.

For more information, call (813) 421-1958, or email .

Reconstructing Hope
When: Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 10207 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Fostering Change Foster Closet welcomes the public to celebrate the donation drive’s grand opening.
Info: Call (813) 421-1958, or email  .

Published December 11, 2019

Wiregrass band marches into Pasco history

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The Wiregrass Ranch High School made Pasco County history by bringing home the first place prize in Class 4A in the Florida Marching Band Championships, on Nov. 23.

The Marching Bulls became 4A Grand Champions at the competition, at Daytona Beach. The school also won best color guard in its class, as well.

Josh Hobbs is the school’s band director and Alexander Kopp is the band’s drum major.

Precision and coordination were key elements that helped the Wiregrass Ranch High School marching band win first place in Class 4A of the Florida Marching Band Championships. In winning the Nov. 23 competition, the band became the first of any Pasco school to bring home the award. (Courtesy of Josh Hobbs)

Both were instrumental in the marching band’s success.

“It’s all about focus,” said Kopp, a junior at Wiregrass Ranch. “That’s what we always preach to everyone.”

Being a part of the 135-member band, which includes the color guard team and musicians, requires practicing three days to four days a week.

Beyond competing at band competitions across the country, the marching band also supports the high school’s football team at games.

Competing at various events requires fundraising, which the band does through the sale of items on its website, carwashes and partnering with local restaurants.

During the holidays, band members collect donations in exchange for wrapping gifts at the Barnes & Noble bookstore.

To get to state finals, marching bands must compete at the regional level first.

If they make it to state, they compete in the semifinal round before moving to the finals.

The Marching Bulls were among the top five semifinalists, propelling them closer to a victory.

Senior Kurt Smith, the Bulls’ band captain, said the judges are meticulous. They focus on precision, quality of music and visual performances.

It was that analysis that led to the Bulls earning a banner, trophy and gold medallions.

Kopp and Smith both began their band experience during middle school.

“In middle school, I picked up guitar,” Kopp said. “I saw in eighth grade that there’s a band program at our middle school, so I jumped in there.”

Smith on the other hand started off playing the trumpet and later began practicing the French horn.

However, it was his transition into the Wiregrass Ranch High marching band that made a big impact on him, the 18-year-old recalled.

“I met so many great people in my freshman year, when I first did it,” Smith said. “I really wanted to be like them. They were great leaders.”

Now, he has had the opportunity to continue that kind of leadership.

When the team reaches the competition venue, they may have several additional hours on their hands, Smith said, and they put it to good use.

“It’s just that important to get ready for all three hours that you’re there,” he added, “so that every moment you have, you’re maximizing your potential to set yourself up for success.”

The camaraderie among band members has been the recipe for success, Hobbs said.

He added: “They’re never above helping out somebody that’s struggling. Those things have very little to do with their actual performance. Their willingness to help the program itself, by dedication, is really special.”

The marching band uses social media, posters and informational meetings to get the word out to those interested in joining.

They want to attract new members to not only perform with the band, but also join what they call “a family.”

Published December 11, 2019

Measure intended to improve flow on Bruce B. Downs

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Pasco County is making improvements on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, at the intersection of State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel, to enhance traffic flow and safety.

The county is extending the length of the farthest left-hand turning lane, to accommodate more cars waiting to turn west onto State Road 54.

Bruce B. Downs Boulevard’s farthest left-turn lane turning west onto State Road 54, will be extended to accommodate more vehicles. Two other median modifications also are being made nearby. (Brian Fernandes)

The county also will be adding a traffic signal at Eagleston and Bruce B. Downs boulevards. Currently, there is just a median there. There will be a left-turn lane at the intersection to enable cars heading south on Bruce B. Downs to make a U-turn to head north.

The $500,000 project is a means of preventing motorists from crossing six lanes of traffic to get from one commercial plaza on the west side of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to another commercial plaza on the east side of the road.

“The project was initiated after a safety study was performed recommending the closure of the first median opening south of SR 54/CR 54,” said David Botello, of the Florida Department of Transportation.

Motorists leaving the plaza at Bruce B. Downs Boulevard’s west side, now must cross six lanes in order to get into the Publix plaza, on the east side. By closing the median, this traffic would be redirected to the new signal at Eagleston, or onto State Road 54, in order to get to the Publix center.

The Florida Department of Transportation is taking on the project and would close off this median.

Push-button pedestrian signal detectors, countdown pedestrian signal heads, curb ramps and marked crosswalks would be installed at the intersection.

The project is currently in the design phase and construction is scheduled to begin in Fall 2021.

Published December 11, 2019

Partying in pjs at the rec center

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The Polar Express Pajama Party aims to make the season merrier for children — through a free daytime event that includes games, crafts and refreshments.

Children, ages 10 and younger, are encouraged to wear their pjs to the Dec. 14 party, set for 10 a.m. to noon, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

And, despite its reference to the Polar Express, those attending this party won’t be taking a magical adventure trip to visit Santa at the North Pole. Still, they are expected to have plenty of opportunities for fun — with arts, crafts, music, a bounce house and obstacle courses.

There will be light refreshments, too, including custom-made hot chocolate, where kids can put additional sweet treats inside.

Kids are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the Toys For Tots organization.

While the event is free, registration is encouraged, as space may be limited.

To register, call (813) 929-1220, or stop by the recreation complex.

Polar Express Pajama Party
When: Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to noon
Where: Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free, but registration is encouraged
Details: Kids age 10 and younger are encouraged to wear their pajamas to this event, which features games, crafts and refreshments.
Info: Call (813) 929-1220 to register, or drop by the recreation complex.

Published December 11, 2019