Kathy Steele

Wiregrass sports complex will be hurricane-ready

April 25, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Pasco County received a $2 million federal grant to make the future Wiregrass Sports Arena hurricane-resistant, according to a news release from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Pasco’s emergency management department applied for the grant, which will pay for 75 percent of the approximately $2.7 million total cost of hurricane preparedness.

“We’re very excited for this opportunity,” said Laura Black, assistant director of emergency management. “It’s one of our top projects.”

This is a rendering of how the Wiregrass Sports complex will look. The complex is expected to open in 2019. (File)

The federal agency awards these grants through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The grants are provided to states, and tribal and local governments, to reduce the loss of life and property due to natural disasters, including hurricanes.

The 98,000-square-foot sports arena will be built and hardened to withstand up to 170-mph winds. That exceeds Florida’s standard requirement of 142 mph.

In addition, the floors will be elevated by 1-foot to reduce the risk of flooding. Also, a 1000-kilowatt generator will be installed to provide backup power.

All of this will be done from the ground up, during construction. Doing that will result in substantial savings, Black said, adding the cost could be as much as $8 million, if a retrofit was required afterward.

The Pasco County Commission approved the project as a public/private partnership in 2017.

RADD Sports, a private company, will operate and manage the sports complex. Pasco County will own the facility and share in anticipated profits.

The federal application included a cost analysis on economic losses, if the arena suffered hurricane damage and couldn’t operate for a period of time, Black said.

In addition to the indoor sports arena, the complex will have seven outdoor sports fields, an amphitheater with an event lawn, trails, pavilions and a playground. The county also has a ground lease for a Marriott Residence Inn that will be built with private funds at the complex.

Richard Blalock, president of RADD Sports, spoke last year at an economic briefing luncheon sponsored by the Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce (now known as North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce).

The facility will host sporting and recreational activities, including basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, dancing, wrestling, gymnastics, curling and badminton.

Blalock last year estimated annual economic impact would be about $6.5 million. Over 10 years, about $8 million or more in sales and use taxes would be generated, not including tourism taxes from hotel stays.

A construction date isn’t scheduled as yet, but the arena is expected to open by late summer or early fall of 2019.

Published April 25, 2018

Tails go waggin’ in Pasco County’s parks

April 25, 2018 By Kathy Steele

The Tail Wagon Adoption bus rolled into Crews Lake Wilderness Park with a special cargo to unload on a Saturday morning in April.

Volunteer dog handlers hooked leashes to Hercules, Luna, Poe, Prince and Zeus for a daily constitutional that wasn’t the usual routine for these four-legged residents of Pasco County’s animal shelter.

Hercules, a mixed-breed, leads the way as a volunteer holds the leash during the Pasco Park Walk at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill. (Fred Bellett)

Once a month, however, selected canines get to go on a field trip — when Pasco County Animal Services and the county’s parks, recreation and natural resources department team up for Pasco Park Walks.

A handful of adoptable dogs trot and stroll through one of four Pasco parks beginning at 9 a.m., on the first Saturday of every month.

The public is invited to bring their dogs for the “pack walk.”

Or, visitors can come without a dog to simply enjoy a community walk in the park.

And, those who are so inclined can adopt a dog on the spot.

Sometimes, people are visiting a park they’ve never seen before.

So, in addition to finding some permanent homes for pets that need them, the walks also help showcase county parks.

“I see a lot of bright new faces,” said Rachel Stever, education coordinator for Pasco County Animal Services. “This is awesome.”

During the recent event, roughly a dozen people pulled into Crews Lake in Spring Hill bringing along all sorts of dogs.

Land O’ Lakes residents, Amanda and Melvin White, took Amelia, their 6-year-old Papillon, on the Pasco Park Walks event in April at Crews Lake Wilderness Park.

The dogs were big and small, and medium size. Some had long hair. Others, short hairs. There were short legs or long legs.

They had one thing in common, though: Their tails were wagging.

Shady Hills’ resident Teresa Simmons brought her long-haired dachshund, Shelby. “I wish there was one (walk) every weekend. It’s nice to get out and be with others.”

Besides showing off their personalities to possible future owners, the shelter dogs have a chance to hone their pack walk manners.

Stever said the dogs selected for the walks are usually larger and older dogs that are less socialized, and harder to place.

“There’s a place they fit in,” said Stever. “But, these dogs are skipped over because they don’t look great in the shelter.”

On the walks, she added, “They’re learning how to better manage their issues.”

Palm Harbor resident Libby Bryant works as a veterinarian’s technician. She brought her 9-year-old black Labrador, Apollo.

The park walks are for a good cause, she said.

“It gets (the dogs) out of the cubicle setting. It’s kind of making a different mentality and lets them know it’s OK to be around other dogs,” she said. “Most are rescue situations.”

This was Bryant’s first visit to Crews Lake.

“I didn’t even know where it was located,” she said.

Tarpon Springs’ resident Nancy Boyce volunteers at Pasco’s animal shelter. Without volunteers, she said there are dogs that don’t get a daily walk.

Pasco Park Walks are held once a month, on a rotating basis, at four Pasco County parks. The walks showcase the county’s parks, while homeowners walk their pet dogs and animal shelter volunteers walk adoptable dogs.

She has three dogs, including one she is fostering.

At Crews Lake, she started the walk with Zeus, a young, mixed breed dog that tugged at his leash, full of eager energy.

“I love dogs,” Boyce said. “We need volunteers so badly.”

Hercules is a mixed breed that has been at the shelter the longest, and is a favorite of volunteers and county staff members. He was adopted and returned to the shelter when he didn’t get along with the adopter’s other dog. He isn’t fond of cats.

He probably would do best in a home as the only dog, Stever said.

On the walk, he is friendly and very approachable, pausing to sniff plants and flowers along the trail.

“He’ll cuddle with you like a couch potato,” Stever said. But, she added, “It’s hard to find someone who wants an only pet.”

Lutz resident Alba Parise walked 4-year-old Poe, a mixed breed stray that came to the shelter in December. “She’s shy,” said Parise.

She enjoys volunteering as a dog handler.

“I can spend quality time with the dogs at the shelter and let them see what it’s like to be loved,” Parise said.

There are happy stories that come from the shelter when dogs are adopted, said volunteer Brenda Gale.

There are other benefits as well.

“I’ve made dozens of friends with people who share the same passion, a passion for the pups,” she said.

One dog on the Crews Lake walk was an international rescue.

Kathy Jeffers saved 16-month-old Piper from a South Korean meat market. The country has about 17,000 dog farms that supply meat to restaurants and groceries.

Piper, a Jindo breed, was days from going to the slaughterhouse. Jeffers picked him up in Atlanta in February through the South Korean nonprofit Save Korean Dogs.

The dog walk event benefits both dogs and potential owners, said Jeffers, who is fostering Piper.

“It’s a good thing to get him socialized with other dogs and people,” she said.

It also gave her a preview of what Piper will be like when he is adopted.

“I’m really proud of him. He did really good,” Jeffers said.

What: Pasco Park Walks
When: May 5 at 9 a.m.
Where: Withlacoochee River Park, 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd., Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Walks last 45 minutes to an hour. Park locations are rotated monthly.
Info: PascoCountyFl.net

Park Walk Rules and Guidelines

Bring secure 6-foot leashes with collars. (Note: No retractable leashes are permitted).
No prong or electrical collars are permitted.
Respect everyone’s space. No face-to-face contact permitted among dogs.
One handler per pet is required.
Be sure to bring poop bags.
Be sure to bring water.

Published April 25, 2018

Tunnel under U.S. 41 could cost half-billion dollars

April 25, 2018 By Kathy Steele

It could cost more than a half-billion dollars to build a tunnel under U.S. 41 to tackle the traffic gridlock at that juncture with State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes.

A study recently completed for the Pasco County Metropolitan Planning Organization put the estimated cost at more than $550 million.

That’s significantly more than the $134 million estimated to build elevated lanes over the state highway.

Pasco County commissioners are considering a tunnel under U.S. 41 to relieve traffic gridlock at State Road 54. This shot was taken during a recent rush hour, looking east on State Road 54, at U.S. 41.
(Randy Underhill)

The estimate was presented to the MPO board at an April meeting in New Port Richey. The board, which reviews transportation matters, includes Pasco County commissioners and elected officials of the county’s cities. David Gwynn, secretary of District 7 for the Florida Department of Transportation, is a nonvoting advisor.

“I was shocked when I saw the numbers,” Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore said.

Other findings in the study showed that right of way purchases for the tunnel and the elevated lanes would be $70 million each.

Maintenance costs for elevated lanes would be $7 million through 2040. Costs for the tunnel are uncertain, but maintenance would be more than $7 million in the same time period, the study says.

Moore supported the study that MPO board members requested in January. At the time, many thought the board would make a final decision on four recommendations presented by a volunteer task force.

But, Moore said, “It was important to me, at least, to look at every possible solution, and cross it off if you need to.”

Based on the study’s results, he said, “I would definitely say this would be crossed off my list.”

Pasco County Commissioner Jack Mariano isn’t quite ready to do that, however. He convinced board members to delay its final design selection until the May 10 meeting.

He asked that planning staff members inquire about a tunnel built in downtown Ft. Lauderdale.

That tunnel, he said, appears to be shorter in length than the model considered for U.S. 41.

“Could they have saved a little more if they did it differently?” said Mariano, referring to the study. “I think we should take a closer look. The numbers might come down quite a bit.”

The study considered a tunnel of 6,000 linear feet, with 4,000 linear feet underground. Approaches to the tunnel would be 1,000 feet on either side.

Moore asked Gwynn if the state transportation department would sign on for a project of more than half a billion dollars.

“It’s certainly a lot more difficult to fund than other options,” Gwynn said. He also noted that the tunnel’s design would have to meet certain traffic criteria. “You may find you can’t shorten it a lot,” he added.

The task force, which studied the matter for two years, looked at 11 alternative designs and a no-build option. Among the four designs the volunteer group recommended were elevated lanes at major intersections and a system of parallel frontage roads at-grade level.

The task force never considered a tunnel, which would be built with a “cut and cover” technique.

Workers would cut a large size trench, lined with walls, and then, cover it over.

The intersection of U.S. 41 and State Road 54 sees upwards of 100,000 vehicles a day pass through it.

The MPO will decide on May 10 if they want to add the tunnel to the list of potential designs. If approved, the issue would go back to the task force for review.

If the tunnel is rejected, board members plan to vote on the four recommendations from the task force.

“This needs to get on the docket,” said Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Wells Jr. “We need to get moving on this. Time is of the essence. This intersection is not getting better.”

Published April 25, 2018

Withlacoochee River Park adds conservation land

April 25, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Withlacoochee River Park is larger by about 40 acres, following Pasco County’s purchase of additional conservation land at the park’s entrance.

The county’s Environmental Land Acquisition Management Program, known as ELAMP, recently purchased the property on Auton Road for about $132,000.

Plans for the new acreage aren’t certain, but some ideas are being considered.

Pasco County’s Environmental Land Acquisition Management Program purchased 40 acres to add to the Withlacoochee River Park. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

One possibility is to create an equestrian camp and the use of an existing building on site for 4-H classes.

“All of the uses will be passive in nature,” said Angela Fagan, program manager for Pasco’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department.

A portion of the newly purchased land is within the Withlacoochee River Ecological Planning Unit, which provides buffers to wildlife habitats along the river and in the Green Swamp.

The county’s land conservation program purchases properties with funds partly from the Penny for Pasco taxes. About 25 properties are currently on the program’s acquisition list.

So far, the county has acquired about 2,900 acres in conservation land.

Withlacoochee River Park is a regional park of more than 600 acres, located at 12449 Withlacoochee Blvd. It is near the Green Swamp Wilderness Preserve.

The park offers campgrounds for tents and recreational vehicles, cabins, bird-watching, canoe and kayak launches, and a fishing pier.

The Florida Trail Association maintains more than five miles of trail within the park.

For information, call Withlacoochee River Park at (352) 567-0264, or visit PascoCountyFl.net.

Published April 25, 2018

Business Digest 04/25/2018

April 25, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Jennifer Wagner, left, and her daughter, Sophia Wagner, opened Bella Home Market in Land O’ Lakes. (File)

Bella Home Market ribbon cutting
Bella Home Market will have a ribbon cutting and sale

celebration May 1 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1531 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Suite D, in Land O’ Lakes.

Refreshments will be served.

For information, call the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722, or visit CentralPascoChamber.com.

Industry award nominations
Nominations are being accepted for the 2018 Pasco Economic Development Council Industry of the Year Awards.

The deadline for submitting nominations is close of business on April 27.

The awards recognize top companies in Pasco County that excel in technology, innovative job creation, growth, capital investment and community involvement.

Finalists will be interviewed prior to the awards ceremony on a range of topics related to their businesses and the community.

Awards will be announced at Pasco EDC’s Annual Awards and Tradeshow on Sept. 6, at Saddlebrook Resort in Wesley Chapel.

Nominees should be “for profit” business to business service, manufacturing or technology companies operating in Pasco. Municipalities or affiliates, as well as previous winners in the past five years, are not eligible.

The awards will be separated into divisions based on the number of employees. Evaluations are based on job creation, increased capital investment and contributions to the community through civic involvement between January 2017 and June 2018.

The Industry Awards are presented for the following categories:
Small (1-20 employees)
Medium (21-100 employees)
Large (101 or more employees)
Startup/New within past 24 months

Pasco EDC has partnered with Pasco County government for more than three decades to attract businesses and create jobs.

To submit a nomination online, visit tinyurl.com/ybfmpo7r.

For information, visit PascoEdc.com.

Economic development briefing
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly economic briefing lunch April 26 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club, 18101 Longwater Run Drive in Tampa.

Guest speaker will be J.D. Porter, who will give an update on Wiregrass Ranch.

The cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534, or email .

Joint mixer
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce and the West Pasco Chamber of Commerce will host a joint mixer April 26 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Residence Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway, in the Northpointe Village, at 2101 Northpointe Parkway.

There will be one free drink per person, refreshments and door prizes.

For information, call the Central Pasco chamber at (813) 909-2722 or the West Pasco chamber at (727) 842-7651.

General membership meeting
The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce will have its general membership meeting May 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway, 2155 Northpointe Parkway, at Northpointe Village.

Guest speaker will be Adam Thomas of Visit Pasco. Sponsor is Metz Orthodontics.

The cost for members is $20 if paid by May 3. Afterward, the cost is $25 to members and non-members.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 909-2722, or email .

Coffee social
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its Monthly Coffee Social on May 3 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the Hilton Garden Inn Tampa Suncoast Parkway.

This is a “no agenda” event with time for social networking.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534.

Zephyrhills chamber breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly business breakfast May 3 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral, 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

Guest speaker is State Rep. Danny Burgess. The sponsor is Bahr’s Propane Gas & AC Inc.

The cost is $8 for chamber members and $10 for non-members.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 872-1913, or email .

Women-n-Charge
Join Women-in-Charge May 4 from 11:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at the new meeting location at Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The women share talents and resources, and build relationships with other women in business.

Guest speaker will be Christy Maldonado of Social Media Marketing. She will discuss Facebook basics and marketing tools.

The cost is $15 for members and $18 for guests who RSVP by Tuesday prior to the meeting. Afterward, the cost is $20 for members and $23 for guests.

For information, call (813) 600-9848, or email .

Florida Hospital Dade City ribbon cutting
Florida Hospital Dade City will host a community celebration and ribbon cutting May 8 from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City.

For information, call the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce at (352) 567-3769.

North Tampa luncheon
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will have its April 2018 Momentum Thursday on May 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Brookdale of Lutz, 414 Chapman Road in Lutz.

For early bird registration, RSVP online with credit card at NorthTampaChamber.com or by email to the chamber at by 5 p.m. May 9, at the discounted rate of $15 (whether you eat or not).

After that date, the cost is $20 (whether you eat or not), payable at the door by cash, check or credit card.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 563-0180.

Backyard Pool Supplies opening
Backyard Pool Supplies will have a grand opening and ribbon cutting May 10 from 10 a.m. to noon, at 6417 County Line Road, Suite 103, in Tampa. The store is on the southwest corner of Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, between Winn Dixie and LA Fitness.

Refreshments will be served.

For information, email Charlene Kutzan at .

Business seminar
SCORE will have a free business seminar on “YouTube and Small Business” May 8 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

Space is limited.

To register, visit Pascohernando.score.org.

North Tampa Bay Chamber grand opening
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce will have its grand opening and ribbon cutting May 10 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 1868 Highland Oaks Blvd., Suite A.

There will be hors d’ oeuvres, an office tour, networking and a cash bar.

Please RSVP to the chamber at (813) 994-8534, or email Grace Martin at .

Approval recommended for TECO solar farm

April 18, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Opponents are disappointed

A proposed solar farm in northeast Pasco County cleared the first hurdle needed for approval — despite impassioned pleas and even tears from area residents who oppose it.

The Pasco County Planning Commission recently voted 6-3 to recommend approval of the project to the Pasco County Commission, which has the final say.

Tampa Electric Company, or TECO, needs a special exception permit to build the solar farm on about 350 acres on two sides of Blanton Road. Portions of the site are bordered by Frazee Hill and Platt roads. The site is north and west of Pasco-Hernando State College’s East Campus.

It’s not clear when the county commissioners will take up the issue.

There is a 30-day appeal period for challenges to be filed against the planning commission’s decision.

Additional delays would come if an appeal is filed.

Nearly 240 people crowded into West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey on April 9 for a five-hour public hearing on the proposed project.

Tampa Electric Company operates a solar farm in Big Bend. (File)

Opponents objected to the loss of unique scenic views in a gateway area into Dade City, which is known for its rolling hills.

“This is by no means something that fits in this area,” said Gregory Ostovich, who lives near the proposed site.

“This is clean energy,” he said. “However, there is a term called visual pollution. This is spewing huge amounts of visual pollution in our area that trees will not hide, shrubs will not hide.”

About 250 acres of the proposed solar farm site are owned by State Sen. Wilton Simpson and his wife, Kathryn Simpson. Additional acreage is owned by James Gross & Ranch Inc., according to county records.

If built, TECO officials propose investing about $75 million and anticipate production of about 53 megawatts of power. About 464,000 photovoltaic panels would be installed that would track the sun daily from east to west, and feed power to TECO’s electric grid.

Over the next decade, TECO plans to invest $850 million in 10 solar projects that would provide energy to about 100,000 homes in Florida.

The electric company has about 20,000 customers in Pasco County, but company officials said the solar farm’s energy production would be shared by all of TECO’s service-area customers.

Consultants and TECO officials laid out a site plan that they said would produce clean energy and protect wildlife.

They provided renderings of a buffer of trees and shrubs along the roadway that would largely block views of the panels, and maintain Dade City’s rural character. They also emphasized cost efficiencies of solar compared to other fuels.

“Photovoltaic is going to be a good neighbor,” said Mark Ward, TECO’s director of renewables.

The project had some supporters at the hearing, including Charles Lee, director of advocacy for Audubon Florida.

Lee said TECO has been generous in protecting wetlands and creating a 660-foot buffer zone for an eagle’s nest in the southeast corner of the site.

In testimony during the hearing, a TECO representative committed to keeping that corner undeveloped “in perpetuity.”

“I understand that neighbors would like things to remain the same,” Audubon’s Lee said. “Renewable energy is important. We believe it is a good site. We believe the impacts have been well taken care of. We think the applicants have done an exemplary job of setting aside an area (for an eagle’s nest). This is not normally what we see.”

Landowners who would sell to TECO, if the project is approved, also supported it.

Members of the Jordan family, which harvested citrus groves for decades, described years of struggle to hold onto their way of life. But, the citrus greening disease has devastated Florida’s citrus industry, they said.

“It is not viable,” said Alice Jordan. “We can’t do it anymore, folks.”

But, opponents kept coming back to what they and Dade City would lose.

Laura Myers described the beautiful views she and her family had in a new home they bought on top of the hill overlooking the solar farm site.

“That’s not going to be covered by their buffering,” she said. “Instead of God’s sunrise, we are going to be looking at solar panels.”

Property owner Gordon Comer and his attorney, Gordon Schiff, contend the project doesn’t meet the county’s land use regulations including a northeast rural protection plan.

Comer said he was a real estate developer with 20 years of experience in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Polk counties.

“I am not opposed to appropriate development moving in,” he said. But, the solar project, he added, would substantially diminish the quality of life and property values.

Schiff declined to comment if an appeal would be filed.

The matter produced sharp differences among the planning commissioners as well.

“This is just the wrong place,” said Art Woodworth Jr. “There are plenty of other places TECO can site solar. I can’t understand why TECO is so intent on jamming this down the throats of northeast Pasco (residents).”

Planning Commission Charles Grey, who supported the solar farm proposal, acknowledged that perhaps a better location could be found.

But, Grey said: “Every time you find a location, someone will say ‘that is not a great spot. You need to put it over there.’

“It’s a beautiful area,” Grey said. “I want to see it preserved.”

But, Grey continued: “Everyone has rights. Not just you. Property owners have rights too.”

Published April 28, 2018

Selena Schulz is Everyday Hero protecting Pasco animals

April 18, 2018 By Kathy Steele

Selena Schulz is growing up in a family that includes two dogs, and a guinea pig named Desmond.

Once in a while, there also are the stray dogs, cats and unexpected critters that her father brings home.

Selena Schulz, center, received the Everyday Hero Award from the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon for her volunteer service for animal welfare. Rotary club president Kent Ross and club member Shari Mokhtari presented the award.
(Courtesy of Wesley Chapel Noon Rotary)

One time it was a chicken. But, more likely, it’s a friendless dog or cat that Kurt Schulz found on the side of the road. They are all in need of tender loving care.

“He’s a plumber, so he’s out and about,” said Selena’s mother, Jomary Schulz. “He brings them home and rehabilitates them. He and Selena give them baths. We call whatever rescue groups that can help.”

Loving animals is an embedded value for this Hudson family.

Selena, age 12, takes that to heart. She devotes hours of volunteer service to collect donations of supplies and money for animal shelters and animal welfare groups. She is also the author of three books. Donations for the books are split between various animal charities and the costs of printing more books to get more donations.

She will be at the Fourth Annual Oxford Exchange Book Fair in Tampa on April 29, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon recognized Selena in March as an “Everyday Hero” for her efforts on behalf of animal welfare.

“I’ve always been around animals,” Selena said. “There was never a time I didn’t have a dog. I’ve bonded with them. They’re my friends.”

There is Snowy, a Labrador/German shepherd; Cici, a Shar-Pei/boxer; and Desmond.

The sixth grader is a student at Countryside Montessori Charter School in Land O’ Lakes.

“My future goal is to be a CEO (chief executive officer),” said Selena.

And, to continue helping animals who need a friend and a home, she said.

It was on her eighth birthday that Selena found a way to combine her passion with volunteer service.

She celebrated with a party at Pasco County Animal Services. Instead of gifts, she asked for donations for the animal shelter.

People delivered.

Selena Schulz is the author of three books, including ‘A Bed A Buck A Buddy: Cici’s Amazing Adventure.’ She donates sales of her books to animal welfare organizations. (Courtesy of Selene Schulz)

The shelter received more than 120 pounds of dry dog food, 62 pounds of dry cat food, lots of toys and treats, towels, bedding, blankets and one leash.

Selena got the idea during a shelter visit.

“I saw that they weren’t having beds to sleep in,” she said. “They had newspaper piles.”

Birthday presents can be nice, but helping a dog or cat in need seemed more important, Selena said.

Selena has kept up with her volunteer efforts and found new ways to help out.

She has a website, Abedabuckabuddy.com, with links to the nonprofits that receive donations. She has written three books including “Cici’s Amazing Birthday.” Cats got equal time in her next book, “Purr-fect Friends Forever.”

Selena also wrote a song and created a music video.

For her 10th birthday, Selena hosted a community pet adoption event, again at Pasco County Animal Services.

Local businesses donated balloons and refreshments, including cupcakes. Her goal was for 20 dogs and cats (10 of each) to be adopted that day. She got her wish.

At the book fair, Selena will have her newest book, “The Squeaky Surprise,” on display. Desmond gets credit for this one.

She wanted to increase awareness that cats and dogs aren’t the only ones needing adoption from shelters.

One of her favorite charities is Cindy’s Pets. The nonprofit provides pet food to seniors who get meals delivered through Meals on Wheels.

Selena gives donations to the charity. She also helps package and deliver food for the seniors, and their pets.

Some seniors don’t have the means to buy or travel to get pet supplies, so Selena said, “some of the food for the seniors went to their animals.”

Since her eighth birthday, Selena has visited animal shelters across the country and in Canada. She also has been guest speaker at several schools.

“We’ve gone from looking for events to people asking her to be part of their events,” said Jomary Schulz.

What: Fourth Annual Oxford Exchange Book Fair
When: April 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 420 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
Cost: Free
Details: More than 40 local authors will participate
Info: (813) 253-0222; ; or OxfordExchange.com

Published April 18, 2018

Business Digest 04/18/2018

April 18, 2018 By Kathy Steele

New Lutz development
A ground-breaking ceremony recently was held for Lake Hanna Preserve, a single-family home community in the heart of Lutz, and just 10 miles from downtown Tampa and 12 miles from Tampa’s International Airport.

The gated community has 48 lots of 1-acre-plus homesites, with 18 lots featuring serene lake views.

Those purchasing lakefront lots have the opportunity to install docks for direct water access, and all homeowners in the development will be able enter Lake Stemper via a community dock. That amenity will feature a kayak launch and an elevated boardwalk leading to the lake.

Lake Hanna Preserve is scheduled to grand open the Kerrville III model this summer. There are seven home designs, ranging from 2,516 square feet to 5,170 square feet.

Every home also will be equipped with energy efficiency, which will help buyers to save up to 50 percent on their utility bills.

For more information, contact Marcelle Sebaali at (813) 386-8747, or visit MeritageHomes.com/tampa.

Chamber scholarships
The North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce is expanding its high school scholarship fund to include recipients from Wesley Chapel High School, Wiregrass High School, Freedom High School and Wharton High School.

The chamber’s goal is to award 14 scholarships in the amount of $500 each. To fund the scholarships, sponsorships of $650 each are needed.

The chamber has partnered with career counselors at each campus. Students who apply will complete an application that includes a short essay.

Sponsors will have the opportunity to present ceremonial checks to each recipient. Each school organizes the events.

Event dates are:

Wiregrass Ranch, May 17 at 6:45 p.m.
Wesley Chapel High, April 25 at 7:30 a.m.
Freedom High, April 24 at 6 p.m.
Wharton High, to be announced

To become a sponsor, email Grace Martin at .

Jersey Mike’s donations
Jersey Mike’s Subs raised more than $6 million for local charities nationwide in a single month, including more than $104,000 for High Risk Hope in the Tampa/St. Petersburg/Sarasota area, according to a news release from Splash Communications.

There were 35 restaurants participating in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Sarasota.

High Risk Hope is a nonprofit that helps women and families struggling with high-risk pregnancies resulting in bed rest, potential premature births, and neonatal care after delivery.

Nearly $560,000 in total was raised in Florida.

The month-long campaign ended on March 28, the Day of Giving, when 1,360 Jersey Mike’s restaurants donated 100 percent of sales – not just profits – to more than 170 different charities across the country.

For information, visit JerseyMikes.com/mog.

Ashton Woods at Asturia
Ashton Woods announced the availability of move-in ready homes at the master-planned community of Asturia, off State Road 54.

They are the Monroe, Lincoln, Truman and Arlington homes.

The Monroe is about 2,500 square feet, with four bedrooms and 2 ½ bathrooms. A laundry room is on the second floor and office space is on the first floor. It sells for about $387,000.

The Lincoln is a two-story home, with about 2,400 square feet, four bedrooms, and a laundry room on the second floor. Sales price is about $375,000.

The Truman is about 2,000 square feet with three bedrooms and an outdoor area that features a fire pit. It sells for about $350,000.

The Arlington is a 2,000-square-foot home with three bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms and an open family room. It sells for about $280,000.

Asturia is on State Road 54, near the Suncoast Parkway and U.S. 41.

For information, visit AshtonWoods.com/tampa/asturia-heritage-series.

Marketing seminar
SCORE will host a free seminar, “Results-Based Marketing for Small Business,” April 18 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, at 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

Learn how to cut through information overload to get the word out about your business.

For information, call Sheila Neisler, of CatalystGetsResults.com, at (727) 842-4638, or email .

Uncle Maddio’s happy hour
The North Tampa Chamber of Commerce will host Uncle Maddio’s April 2018 Happy Hour on April 18 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at Uncle Maddio’s, at 3949 Van Dyke Road in Lutz.

The restaurant will offer $1 off any pizza, and buy-one, get-one free deals for house wine and draft beers.

The event is free.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 563-0180, or email .

Dairy Queen anniversary/ribbon cutting
DQ Grill & Chill will host a Dairy Queen anniversary and ribbon cutting April 24 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Shoppes at Ballantrae, at 17826 Aprile Drive in Land O’ Lakes.

Come enjoy tasty treats at this free event.

For information, call the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce at (813) 909-2722.

East Pasco networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet April 24 at 7:30 a.m., at IHOP, 13100 U.S. 301 in Dade City.

The guest speaker is Melonie Monson, executive director of the Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491 or , or Vicky Jones at (813) 431-1149 or .

Guest speaker will be J.D. Porter, who will give an update on Wiregrass Ranch.

The cost is $15 for members and $20 for non-members.

For information, call the chamber at (813) 994-8534, or email .

There will be one free drink per person, refreshments and door prizes.

For information, call the Central Pasco chamber at (813) 909-2722 or the West Pasco chamber at (727) 842-7651.

SONG Printing & Design moves
SONG Printing & Design will have a “new location” celebration and ribbon cutting April 26 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., at 38514 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

Celebrate with a glass of beer or wine at this free event.

For information, call owners Mike and Sue Prenderville at (813) 715-2212, or visit SongPrinting.com.

State Road 54 West booming with development

April 11, 2018 By Kathy Steele

State Road 54, east of U.S. 41, tends to hog the spotlight on new development.

After all, it is home to premium commercial shopping meccas, including Tampa Premium Outlets and the now-rising star of Cypress Creek Town Center.

Brightworks Crossing, an apartment and retail project, is going up at Wesley Chapel Boulevard and State Road 54. And, other area development includes Florida Hospital Center Ice, luxury car dealerships, a thriving Shops at Wiregrass, and commercial and residential expansions at Wiregrass Ranch.

The master-planned community of Asturia, off State Road 54, will have single-family homes, apartments, shops and a corporate center. (Kathy Steele)

But, west of U.S. 41, with its large parcels of open land, the game of catch-up is on.

Apartments, single-family homes, offices, hotels and shops are under construction, awaiting permits, or have just cleared the rezoning hurdle.

The mixed-use, master-planned community of Asturia is among many new developments that are reshaping Pasco County’s future. The changes are particularly noticeable in Land O’ Lakes, on the north side of the state road from U.S. 41 to Starkey Ranch.

Construction sites and new development pop up – boom, boom, boom.

The progression of development is taking a natural course of following where land is available, said Lars Kier, president of the Central Pasco Association of REALTORS.

“It’s moving away from Wesley Chapel and Tampa,” he said. “It’s just a natural growth that way.”

Also, the western side of Pasco County is largely developed, he added.

Central Pasco and East Pasco are more rural.

“Real estate is establishing itself where it’s easier to develop,” Kier said. “With all the growth in Pasco, I would definitely think all of it is going to be pretty well-developed.”

Occasionally, the county’s rural past meets up with its urban future.

Down the entrance drive into Asturia, a small herd of cows munches grass on an open field. Behind them, construction workers raise the roofs on new homes.

But, Asturia isn’t all that’s happening.

From U.S. 41, west, there are the Shoppes at Ballantrae Village; Mystic Pointe apartments; Bexley by Newland Communities; Florida Hospital Central Pasco ER; Asturia Corporate Center; South Branch Ranch; and, Publix at Gunn Highway and Starkey Ranch.

A drive into Bexley reveals the Spring Hills Suites Marriott hotel under construction, and the Lakeside Walk apartments, which are preleasing.

Other locations on State Road 54 are filled with clusters of housing frames or smoothed over plots of ground, waiting for a construction start. Or, motorists can spot a sign planted in the dirt, “The Preserve New Homes” coming.

On the south side, for sale signs offer up large swaths of vacant land, waiting on the next development wave. Some parcels are newly rezoned, and need site plans and permitting before more development sprouts.

Some small commercial projects are visible, as well.

The DCI Professional Center at State Road 54 and Ogden Loop has a sign heralding a fall 2017 opening for the 18,000-square- foot office complex, across from Asturia.

So far, all that is finished there is a paved parking lot.

Stanley Steemer is nearing completion on State Road 54, just west of U.S. 41.

Sienna Village II is planned as an expansion of the existing Sienna Village, a small office complex off State Road 54, also just west of U.S. 41.

The expansion, at State Road 54 and Sofia Drive, will have 150,000 square feet of offices, and 30,000 for commercial.

Highlights of new development on State Road 54, from U.S. 41 to Starkey Ranch, include:

Shoppes at Ballantrae Village

The shopping center outside the master-planned community of Ballantrae includes DQ Grill & Chill, Domino’s Pizza, Dunkin’ Donuts, T-Mobile, Hungry Greek, a dental office and a spa.

Circle K convenience store is adjacent to the shops, at the entrance into Ballantrae.

Mystic Pointe apartments

The upscale, gated apartment complex will have 252 apartments, and a Key West vibe when construction is complete. Preleasing on one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments is underway.

The complex is between Bexley by Newland Communities to the west and Ballantrae to the east, off State Road 54.

Bexley by Newland Communities

The master-planned community is under construction on more than 1,800 acres, off State Road 54, east of Suncoast Parkway. Newland Communities announced in March that more than 250 new homes have been sold.

On the entry drive into Bexley, Spring Hill Suites Marriott is being built. Lakeside Walk apartments are under construction, but are preleasing.

Bexley’s clubhouse is home to the Twisted Sprocket Café, which is open to the public for breakfast, lunch and happy hour.

Florida Hospital Central Pasco ER

The emergency room facility is open outside Bexley, providing medical care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

South Branch Ranch

Sembler and Altman Development Corp., had March pre-application meetings scheduled with Pasco County planners for property rezoned in 2017 at the northwest corner of Suncoast Parkway and State Road 54.

Altman is proposing 16 buildings, including a clubhouse. There would be more than 350 apartments with one-, two-, and three-bedrooms.

Sembler is proposing a project with a grocery store, fitness center and shops. Outparcels facing State Road 54 could be future sites for restaurants, offices, shops and a gas station.

Both are part of South Branch Ranch, according to county records.

Land Investment Partners offices/apartments

The Atlanta-based investment company plans to build two, three-story premier office buildings of 75,000 square feet each, at the southeast corner of Suncoast Parkway and State Road 54.

The company also plans 300 apartments, with access off Northpointe Parkway in Northpointe Village.

The locations are part of the Suncoast Crossings development property, and adjacent to the newly opened manufacturing plant by Mettler Toledo.

Asturia Corporate Center

The Pasco County Commission approved a plan in 2017 to build up to 200,000 square feet of premier office space on the north side of State Road 54, west of Asturian Parkway. The business park will be part of the mixed-use, master-planned community of Asturia.

Harrod Properties Inc., is developing the project, which will be built in phases and without pre-signed tenants.

Publix at Starkey Ranch

A 45,000-square-foot Publix grocery store is expected to open in fall 2018 at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway. An additional 30,000 square feet will be available for more retail.

Published April 11, 2108

Showing some appreciation for those who do good

April 11, 2018 By Kathy Steele

This is a festival that takes time out to celebrate the good that people do in their communities.

The name of the event is Appreciate Pasco: A Community Volunteer Appreciation Festival, and it will feature entertainment, food, prizes, awards and recognitions.

It also will highlight Good Deeds Day, an international event held in 93 countries, to recognize good works that often go unnoticed, but that help make the world a better place.

The appreciation festival will be held on April 15 from noon to 6 p.m., at the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

“We anticipate it will kick off in flying colors and it will be an annual event,” said Appreciate Pasco organizer Elise Mysels.

Appreciate Pasco kicks off several other annual celebrations, including annual National Volunteer Week, Health Care Volunteer Week, National Park Service Volunteer Week, and Worldwide Volunteer Recognition Day on April 20. It also coincides with National Representation Day, which focuses on ending corruption in government.

Over the past three months, Mysels and a core group of about five volunteers, known as the Pasco County Volunteer Activists, have worked to pull Appreciate Pasco together.

It’s the first festival of its kind in the Tampa Bay area for Good Deeds Day and Representation Day, said Mysels.

“There are a lot of people in our community that do stuff behind the scenes that nobody knows about,” said Mysels. “They deserve to be recognized. We’re trying to make this an initiative that supports smaller types of groups and organizations, and bring to the forefront their needs and causes.”

Entertainment kicks off at noon at the park’s new bandstand, with WMNF radio station’s Florida Folk Show. WMNF is a co-sponsor of the festival through Represent.us.

Performers will be Ronny Elliott, a singer/songwriter and WMNF co-host; The Florida Boys, a Pinellas County-based trio; Tom Scudiero, a Dade City singer/songwriter; Treble Hook, whose real name is Scotty Lee Rexroat, a Dunedin-based singer/songwriter; Jim Mason, a Spring Hill native, with more than 40 years in the recording industry with performers, such as, Peter, Paul and Mary, John Lennon and Buffalo Springfield; and, Dottie South.

More than 70 businesses, vendors, civic organizations, and nonprofits from Tampa Bay are expected to participate. They include Courteous Canine; Arts in Motion Pasco; Davis Family Hearing; Harley-Davidson of Tampa; Ferman Buick-GMC; Moore-Mickens Education Center; Gulfside Hospice; Sierra Club; Represent.us Pasco County; Catholic Charities; Oasis Pregnancy Centers; Sunrise Pasco; Women’s March; and Organize Florida.

The nonprofit, OneBlood, will drive up its Big Red Bus for blood donations, and free wellness checkups.

Attendees can vote for their favorite nonprofit, with monetary awards going to the top three vote-getters.

Food vendors are Whaley’s BBQ, Vallarta’s Mexican Restaurant and the Sno Shack.

International Good Deeds Day began in 2007 as an initiative organized by Ruach Tova of the Ted Arison Family Foundation. The event’s partner is the nonprofit Points of Light, which was founded by President George H.W. Bush.

Good Deeds Day and Points of Light promote innovative programs that engage volunteers in providing public service. The event day focuses on 17 sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations, including eliminating poverty; gender equality; affordable, clean energy; decent work and economic growth; good health; and climate action.

Good deeds, large and small, can change the world, Mysels said.

“Good deeds can be something as small as a smile or holding a door open for someone,” she said.

What: Appreciate Pasco: A Community Volunteer Appreciation Festival
When: April 15, noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: The festival celebrates volunteers in Tampa Bay, with arts and crafts, entertainment, food, prizes, and volunteer awards and recognition.
Info: ActionNetwork.org/events/appreciate-pasco-festival

Published April 11, 2018