Kathy Steele

Wildlife corridors on hold, again

September 23, 2015 By Kathy Steele

A plan to establish and protect wildlife corridors met another delay in its 15-year journey from a lawsuit settlement to approval from the Pasco County Commission.

During a workshop on Sept. 15, Pasco County commissioners opted to forego upcoming public hearings in October and November. The hearings were for a proposed ordinance to establish criteria and regulations for seven proposed wildlife corridors that, in part, would pass through private lands.

Instead, the matter will go back to the county’s Local Planning Agency for more discussion. The agency’s members previously tabled the matter without making a recommendation to the Pasco County commission on the ordinance. No new date for the agenda item was scheduled.

Also, county officials plan to schedule a fifth public workshop to get more input on the ordinance. Another workshop for commissioners also will be scheduled to provide additional information including maintenance costs for the corridors and ballpark figures on the cost of choosing to establish the corridors through eminent domain rather than the ordinance.

The maze of hearings and workshops is only the latest for a hot-potato issue that has been tossed around by several Pasco County commissions since a lawsuit settlement in 2000.

“We are eager to come to a resolution on this,” said Matt Armstrong, Pasco’s executive planner for the Long Range Planning Group. “We don’t want it to be hanging around there another 15 years.”

The sticking point is how to strike a balance between conservation and property rights, including compensation for land acquired by the county for the corridors.

The proposed ordinance would be applied only if a landowner sought to rezone property for land uses of greater density or intensity, and had a corridor within the property’s boundaries.

In such cases, the county and landowner would provide property appraisals and reach agreement on a sales price through negotiation. Landowners also would have appeal rights before the Development Review Committee.

The county estimates a need for about 7,000 acres to create the wildlife corridors. Subtracting land the county already owns and some undevelopable wetlands, county officials say only about 2,500 acres would be regulated through the ordinance.

The corridors in central Pasco would link current and proposed development projects at Starkey Ranch, Crossbar, Connerton and Cypress Creek.

However, Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore said “everyday average citizens” have concerns about what could happen to their property.
“Their concern is that I’m not going to be allowed to do what I need to survive, to pay my bills,” he said. “They can’t grow oranges. They can’t grow citrus. I’m just not ready to go full force on this.”

The mandate to create the wildlife corridors – also known as critical linkages – comes from a lawsuit filed in the late 1990s that challenged the county’s land use plan. The suit centered on the then-proposed development of the Oakstead subdivision, off State Road 54.

Oakstead went forward, but the settlement agreement required the county to adopt conservation measures including the wildlife corridors. A task force recommended creation of the county’s Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program, also known as ELAMP.

But ELAMP, which is a voluntary system of acquiring land, isn’t sufficient on its own to protect the wildlife corridors, said David Goldstein, assistant county attorney.

If commissioners choose not to adopt the ordinance, acquiring land through eminent domain is the next option, he said.

“It’s more expensive,” Goldstein said.

A guesstimate on eminent domain costs can be provided to commissioners, said Pasco County Administrator Michele Baker.

She also noted that unless the county owned easements through private land, the corridors would not be open to the general public for recreation.

If anyone wanted to try bicycling the corridors, the answer would have to be ‘No you can’t. It’s still private property,’ ” Baker said.

About $36 million from the Penny for Pasco revenues were set aside to purchase conservation land, with about $17 million invested to date. The ELAMP program has been extended another 10 years, and funds could be used to purchase other properties.

A decision on the ordinance is critical, especially given the renewed burst of development in Pasco County, Armstrong added.

“Once it develops, it’s not coming back.”

Published September 23, 2015

Will Wiregrass sports complex be indoors?

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

The best use for a proposed 100-acre Wiregrass Sports Park is an indoor, multi-use complex, according to a study done by Chicago-based Johnson Consulting Co.

A few outdoor playing fields should be built, the consultants say, but they conclude that indoor sports such as basketball, volleyball, wrestling, cheerleading and martial arts are the most profitable wave of the future.

The study cites other municipalities with success in similar ventures including Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Round Rock, Texas; and Foley, Alabama.

Indoor facilities operate year-round, and successful ones typically are unique to their geographic area, the study found.

Pasco County commissioners will discuss the study, and the county’s options for developing the parkland, at their Sept. 22 meeting.

The land for the park is part of more than 200 acres donated to the county by the Porter family, and is located near The Shops at Wiregrass.

Several Pasco County commissioners reported at their Sept. 8 meeting that J.D. Porter has raised questions about the study. There are concerns, they said, about future residential development on Wiregrass Ranch property and the need for open space for new residents.

“I think they were counting on this field being available,” said Pasco County Commissioner Ted Schrader.

J.D. Porter could not be reached for comment.

“I don’t think they (the Porter family) feel like they are in the loop,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. “I think people are really anxious to see what’s going to happen.”

Pasco County Administrator Michele Baker said the study, as well as details on the history of the parkland, is part of the upcoming discussion.

Plans to put the study on the commissioners’ meeting agenda were delayed by the county’s flooding crisis.

(From Pasco County Sports Complex Feasibility Study)

“We never intended this to be something you would rubber stamp,” she said. “There is a conversation that needs to occur.”

Commissioners hired Johnson Consulting Co., in March, to complete a $35,000 feasibility study on the best use of the land and how to achieve the county’s goals of building a sports tourism facility.

One proposed venture already has failed.

Pasco Sports, a partnership between James Talton and former major league baseball player Gary Sheffield, had proposed a youth baseball camp, with 20 ball fields and dormitories on site.

They wanted the county to commit between $11 million and $14 million in tourism dollars. But Talton and Sheffield let a December 2014 deadline pass without following through on a $3 million pledge to the project.

And, it turns out that baseball isn’t a winning game for Pasco, according to the consultants’ study.

That kind of development would have to compete with a $27 million sports complex in Seminole County. Plans there are for 15 fields for baseball, softball, soccer and lacrosse.

“Also, the Florida marketplace is becoming saturated with outdoor complexes, especially for baseball,” the study found.

Instead, Johnson Consulting proposes an indoor facility between 85,000 square feet and 100,000 square feet, with room for expansion.

They envision between six and eight basketball courts that would convert to as many as 16 volleyball courts. There also would be a seating area for up to 750 spectators, locker rooms, and between four and six multipurpose rooms.

A health care partnership with an area hospital or health care provider also is recommended.

Published September 16, 2015

Solemn service marks 9/11

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Sept. 11, 2001 is a day people remember for the ordinary details of life — and then the shattering horror of two hijacked planes flying into the World Trade Center in New York.

Hijacked planes also struck the Pentagon building, and crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

Veteran Bill Hansberger of American Legion Post 118, left, wipes his eyes at the memorial service at Zephyr Park honoring the victims of 9/11. Next to him are fellow post members, George Hansen, Keith Holz and Gil Shepard, far right, of the Marine Corp League’s Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin Detachment #1124. (Fred Bellet/Photos) — Veteran Bill Hansberger of American Legion Post 118, left, wipes his eyes at the memorial service at Zephyr Park honoring the victims of 9/11. Next to him are fellow post members, George Hansen, Keith Holz and Gil Shepard, far right, of the Marine Corp League’s Sgt. Maj. Michael S. Curtin Detachment #1124.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

Those acts of terror cost 2,606 people their lives in the Twin Towers. Another 246 died in the four planes, including 19 terrorists. And 125 people died at the Pentagon.

On the 14^th anniversary of 9/11, communities across the nation held thousands of memorial services to honor the victims who died — including first responders, who risked and lost their lives to save others.

About 50 people gathered at Zephyr Park in Zephyrhills for a solemn ceremony — “We Remember: 9/11 Memorial Service.” The Marine Corps League, Sgt. Maj. Michael Curtin, Detachment 1124 sponsored the event.

Curtin was a first responder with the New York City Police Department who died while saving lives at the World Trade Center.

“An attack of this magnitude, it calls for heroes, doesn’t it?” said Zephyrhills Mayor Gene Whitfield. “It calls for people to step up and go in where no else wants to go. These folks that went in these towers were heroes.”

VFW Post 8154 Honor Guard bugler Jerry Morel, 82, sounds taps during Zephyrhills’ ‘We Remember: 9/11 Memorial Service.’

Whitfield recalled that 9/11 was not Curtin’s first encounter with terrorism. In 1993, Curtin was with the NYPD’s first response team at the first World Trade Center bombing.

Two years later, Curtin went with a team of New York police officers to Oklahoma after Timothy McVeigh’s bomb exploded at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building.

“His history of service has said it all,” Whitfield said.

After a moment of silence, an honor guard fired a 21-gun salute, and 82-year-old Jerry Morel blew taps on the bugle.

Everyone can recall memories of a day that began with the steady thrum of normalcy.

Zephyrhills’ resident Meaghan Sammons drove to a local home improvement store to buy roof nails requested by her job supervisor.

Meagan Sammons of Zephyrhills and her son, Heath Sammons, 11, a Boys Scout with Troop 2 watched the American flag billowing in the wind as it flew at half-staff to honor those who died on 9/11.

When she got back, everyone was gathered around a television. Her first thoughts were of her father who drove a delivery truck near the World Trade Center.

“I tried to call him and I couldn’t get him,” she said. “You are numb. It didn’t hit right away, until you saw the second building coming down and the aftermath.”

She finally reached her father who had left the area before the attack.

Sammons brought her 11-year-old son Heath to the memorial service. He wore his Boy Scout uniform.

She wanted to honor the day and share in a moment of unity. And she said, “If history is not taught to younger generations, it will repeat itself. I hope this never repeats itself.”

State Rep. Danny Burgess was in the 10th grade on 9/11.

“This is very real. This is very raw,” he said.

But the day after, Sept. 12, also should be remembered, especially the moment when President George W. Bush called for unity as he stood on a mound of rubble at the Twin Towers, he said.

“Let’s remember that in the midst of all this, we all united. That’s what’s best about the American spirit,” Burgess said. “We saw so much love and compassion…It shouldn’t take such tragedy to pull us together as a country.”

Sal DiMartino, 92, was a medic during World War II and is a current member of the Marine Corp League’s Sgt. Maj. Michael Curtin Detachment 1124.

World War II veteran Sal DiMartino, 92, served in the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marines. He got a call from his daughter in California on 9/11, telling him to turn on his television.

People need to bring back the spirit that brought the nation together in World War II, he said. “That was when you were dedicated to your fellow man.”

Rod Rehrig Sr., recalls being at work at his real estate office when he saw the events unfold, also on television.

“It was really sad,” said Rehrig, who is the commandant for Detachment #1124 of the Marine Corps League. “All those lives wasted.”

But the memorial service can offer solace, he said.

“I think we have a little more peace of mind. We’re doing something out of respect for those who died. It strengthens people,” Rehrig said.

Published September 16, 2015

‘Topping out’ at Dade City Hall

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Construction on the new government complex in Dade City is more than halfway complete.

To celebrate, workers took a short breather for a traditional “topping out” ceremony for the modern day replacement of the historic City Hall.

On Sept. 3, dozens of city employees, community leaders, architects from Wannemacher Jensen Architects and the construction team from Ajax Building Corp. celebrated the milestone.

Afterward, they enjoyed a luncheon at the site.

City employees and community leaders joined members of the Ajax Building Corp. for a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the construction site of the new Dade City government complex. Lon Neuman, left, director of operations at Ajax Building Corp.; Dade City Police Chief Ray Velboom; Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez; Dade City Mayor Billy Poe, Jr.; Lori Rice, business development manager for Ajax; Bill Byrne, president of Ajax; and, Mike Wilson, operations manager for Ajax. (Photos courtesy of Wannemacher Jensen Architects) — City employees and community leaders joined members of the Ajax Building Corp. for a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the construction site of the new Dade City government complex. Lon Neuman, left, director of operations at Ajax Building Corp.; Dade City Police Chief Ray Velboom; Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez; Dade City Mayor Billy Poe, Jr.; Lori Rice, business development manager for Ajax; Bill Byrne, president of Ajax; and, Mike Wilson, operations manager for Ajax.
(Photos courtesy of Wannemacher Jensen Architects)

Usually such ceremonies happen when the last steel beam is hoisted into place at the tallest point in the building. But “topping out” the new one-story City Hall called for something a bit different.

People were invited to sign their names on the unfinished lobby wall. Those signatures will vanish under the finishing touches to the interior walls.

“It’s like a time capsule element,” said Michael Wilson, operations project manager for Ajax Building Corp.

With the exterior work all but complete, the next phase of construction on the approximately 22,000-square-foot structure will be to install the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Paint and interior trims will follow.

The project is slated for completion in early 2016. The busier than usual rainy season hasn’t been an issue in keeping to the schedule, Wilson said.

The design by Wannemacher Jensen Architects has two separate buildings linked by an entryway canopy and courtyard.

One building will house government offices in City Hall; the other will be headquarters for Dade City police.

Funding for the estimated $5.9 million project is from the city’s reserve funds and the Penny for Pasco program.

Rendering of new Dade City government complex.

In 2013, work crews tore down the historic City Hall, which started out as a 1920s hotel that never was completed. It became the hub of city government in the 1940s as part of a Depression-era work project.

While awaiting their new offices, city employees are working at a City Hall annex and the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot on U.S. 98, at U.S. 301.

About 20 employees will move into the new City Hall, with about 25 police department employees settling into their new headquarters.

The move should be complete by Feb. 1, said Gordon Onderdonk, the city’s public works director.

The city’s police department will relocate from its current Pasco Avenue address to the new complex, which will have interview rooms, holding cells, a booking area, a special area for the K-9 unit and a conference.

No decision has been made on the future of the existing police station.

New and upgraded technology will be installed throughout the two buildings. And there will be a panoramic view of Meridian Avenue from the chamber of the City Commission.

Published September 16, 2015

Pasco officials push for trail loop

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

A decision is months away.

But much is at stake for whichever county secures the favor of the Florida Department of Transportation in choosing a 20-mile route for the Coast to Coast (C2C) Connector Trail.

State highway officials anticipate completing a feasibility study in June 2016 on a northern route through Hernando and Sumter County or a southern route through Pasco and Sumter County.

Dade City resident and professional cyclist Josh Thornton spoke in support of a Pasco recreational trail, and a proposal to build a loop from two separate trails. (Photos courtesy of Richard Riley) — Dade City resident and professional cyclist Josh Thornton spoke in support of a Pasco recreational trail, and a proposal to build a loop from two separate trails.
(Photos courtesy of Richard Riley)

Sumter County is the only sure winner in the construction of a major segment of the planned 275-mile trail that will link the state’s east and west coasts.

Florida DOT representatives from District 5 presented a slide show on the study and the routes during a Sept. 10 board member of the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization.

About 35 people attended the meeting including area residents, elected officials and FDOT representatives from District 7 and District 5.

For Pasco MPO members, it was a chance to make the case for the southern route, but also to push for construction of a loop that would be created by building both routes.

Except as a future project, however, FDOT officials didn’t encourage hope for the loop.

“That can be a suggestion. It’s something you need to work on with Sumter County and what their visions are on the Coast to Coast Connector (Trail),” said Lee Royal, government liaison for FDOT in District 7. “That would be a decision through the planning process.”

Pasco MPO Chairman Lance Smith said a loop is the type of trail ride that bicyclists enjoy, and this one would provide a round trip of nearly 45 miles. “You look for a loop more than an up and back (ride),” said Smith, who also serves on Zephyrhills City Council.

The northern route begins in Hernando, then heads southeast through Sumter, linking the cities of Center Hill and Webster before connecting with the Withlacoochee State Trail.

The southern route jogs through northeast Pasco, parallels State Road 50, and moves into the Withlacoochee Forest on its way to trails end in eastern Sumter.

John Moors, executive director of the Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, speaks in support of a recreational trail through Pasco County as others line up behind him at the Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization’s board meeting.

“That’s a real life line for us to have the southern route,” said Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez. She serves on the Pasco MPO.

Dade City and northeast Pasco are draws for hundreds of bicyclists who come weekly to enjoy the challenges of the area’s rolling hills.

“Our area is a mecca for cyclists,” said Josh Thornton. He is a former professional cyclist who lives in Dade City. “This is a big thing to have cyclists come to the area and support local businesses.”

He supports the southern route but he added, “It’s a great idea to have a loop.”

Pasco officials anticipate the construction of several trails that will link Pasco and Pinellas County, and eventually hook up with Suncoast Trail and Hernando. Work is underway on U.S. 301 on a multi-use trail that in future will link with the Hardy Trail, in Dade City.

The trail system and the bicycling community are part of Dade City’s identity, Hernandez said.

“We’re really working very, very hard to connect what we have here,” she said.

But the town of Webster is just as convinced that the trail can be its economic lifeline. Mayor Kelly Williams attended the meeting to make her city’s case.

She secured a grant for Webster to pay for an analysis of the economic impact of the trail on Webster’s local economy.

Portions of the analysis included studies of trails built in other areas, including Winter Garden in Orange County. The Orange County Trail study relied on data provided by the East Central Florida Regional Planning Council.

The report noted that the southern route would produce nearly 33,000 annual user trips compared to nearly 29,000 on the northern route. However, more economic opportunities would be available, and more money generated along the northern route, according to the study.

The analysis focused on a 75-mile radius of Webster, which the study found would be a significant destination point for people following the Scenic Sumter Heritage Byway.

Local trail users on the southern route would spend about $9 per person while northern route users would spend more than $13. Annual spending on both routes would exceed $300,000 but the northern route would come out ahead by about $80,000, the study found.

The spending opportunities included restaurants, food and beverages, rental fees, guide maps/books and lodging.

Webster would see between $393,000 and nearly $500,000 pumped into the local economy, according to the study.

“It would be an unbelievable economic boon to Webster, having the trail go through there,” said Williams. “I will continue to fight for my city as I know you will for yours.”

One Webster resident, Thomas Parsons, told Pasco MPO members he doesn’t support either route. The best option, he said, would be for the trail to follow State Road 50 where the state already has rights of way.

The northern route crosses his driveway, Parsons said. And though he is not a hunter, Parsons said, people who use dogs to aid their hunting worry about lack of access to their hunting areas. “I think this is another attack on their rights,” he said.

Several Pasco MPO members took FDOT to task for what they saw as a snub to Pasco in the kick-off meeting for the feasibility study. About 120 people attended the meeting near Webster but MPO members said prior notification was insufficient.

Not surprisingly, most who attended were from Sumter and they favored the northern route, said Pasco County Chairman Ted Schrader.

In addition, members were upset that FDOT had no plans to schedule upcoming meetings in Pasco.

Royal said as many as 8,500 mailings were sent to people within 300 feet of the proposed corridors. Local governments also were notified, she said.

But Pasco County Commissioner Mike Wells said he only recalls receiving an update after the meeting.

Two additional workshops will be scheduled in 2016. By the end of the meeting, FDOT officials agreed to hold one workshop in Pasco.

Published September 16, 2015

Hockey complex to open in spring

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

An anticipated opening for the Florida Hospital Center Ice complex will be delayed until spring 2016, largely due to a slower than expected wait on permitting.

Gordie Zimmermann, a partner in Z Mitch, said he expects construction to resume in the next weeks, with a scheduled completion in the first quarter of 2016.

“We’re in good shape,” Zimmermann said.

Initially, the opening for the sports complex, at 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., had been announced for the fall, potentially at the same time as the Tampa Premium Outlets. The outlet mall will open on Oct. 29.

Construction of the Florida Hospital Center Ice sports complex is slated to start again soon after a delay in obtaining permits. (Courtesy of Florida Hospital Center Ice) — Construction of the Florida Hospital Center Ice sports complex is slated to start again soon after a delay in obtaining permits.
(Courtesy of Florida Hospital Center Ice)

Both facilities are off State Road 56 at the Interstate 75 interchange.

A groundbreaking for the sports complex took place in March. The pre-construction work including underground utilities has been completed. But, the site has been inactive for several months.

The rainy season caused some delay, but Zimmermann said much of the slow down was due to mechanical and structural challenges from the refrigeration system for the ice rinks and the air conditioning.

“All that had to be organized properly so it fits,” he said. “It’s complicated.”

Florida Hospital, which purchased naming rights for the complex, is partnering with Z Mitch on the project. The facility’s name – Florida Hospital Center Ice – was announced in May.

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel will offer sports performance and injury prevention programs, along with orthopedic and outpatient rehabilitation services.

There will be four full-size ice rinks, and a mini-rink for ice hockey and figure skating. But the facility will be multipurpose for basketball and other sports, including soccer and lacrosse. Curling also is an anticipated sport.

A sports-themed family-style restaurant will be opened. Non-sports activities, such as dog shows and graduation ceremonies, are likely as well.

The sports complex is expected to be a venue that will host regional and even international youth hockey leagues, and global hockey tournaments.

Zimmermann said a hockey day at the site might be held by the end of the year. And, he said figure skating registration could take place in February.

Along with the permitting, Zimmermann said, “We’re moving ahead in proper sequence.”
Published September 16, 2015

Business Digest 09-16-15

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Ashton Woods and David Weekley had groundbreakings for model homes at the master-planned community of Asturia. (Courtesy of Ashton Woods) — Ashton Woods and David Weekley had groundbreakings for model homes at the master-planned community of Asturia.
(Courtesy of Ashton Woods)

Model homes
The Texas-based real estate firm, Hines, recently announced the groundbreaking by Ashton Woods and David Weekley, of model homes at Asturia, a master-planned community on State Road 54, west of Suncoast Parkway. Asturia will build three model homes; David Weekly will build four model homes. According to a news release from Hines, the homebuilders will provide homes with multiple styles of design that will give homebuyers different pricing options.

Ashton Woods’ homes will include floor plans ranging from 1,962 square feet to more than 2,400 square feet. Its three model homes are scheduled to open in the fall.

David Weekley will feature homes from the builder’s Cottage, Garden, Lake Manor and Park Series. The first model home is scheduled for completion by November, with construction on the remaining three model homes slated to begin this fall.

A community center in Asturia also is under construction and will open in 2016.

The mixed-use, master-planned community will feature parks, trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a fitness center and a resort-style swimming pool. Hines currently is marketing the community to developers, retailers and others for shops, offices and multifamily sites.

For information, visit AsturiaFlorida.com, AshtonWoods.com, DavidWeekleyHomes.com, or Hines.com.

New home design
Pulte Homes unveiled a new three-bedroom Rosemont floor plan at Country Walk, off Meadow Pointe Boulevard, south of State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, according to a news release from Larry Vershel Communications. The plan offers an open space design, but according to Sean Strickler, president of Pulte Group-West Florida Division, it has a twist: a smaller, smarter open space with plenty of family privacy. A massive family living area includes a kitchen with island option that serves as a great room, dining nook and patio. Two additional bedrooms and a bath are near the front of the house, which has more than 1,600 square feet and a two-car garage.

Pulte is building 32 new three- and four-bedroom homes at Country Walk, ranging in size from more than 1,600 square feet to nearly 2,500 square feet. Country Walk homes are priced from $219,990.

The subdivision features a 5,000-square-foot clubhouse, two swimming pools, tennis courts, basketball court, outdoor covered playground, and fitness center.

For information about Pulte Homes, visit Pulte.com.

Bank ribbon cutting
Bank of America hosted a ribbon cutting on Sept. 2 for a new branch office at 28580 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel. The branch opened on Aug. 3. Bank representatives presented a $500 check to Arts in Motion, a nonprofit community youth theater and arts education organization.

Land O’ Lakes Optical open house
Land O’ Lakes Optical is opening on Sept. 17 and is celebrating with an open house. The public is invited to meet Dr. Jose Santos and his staff from noon to 8 p.m., at the office, 19455 Shumard Oak Drive. The event will include refreshments, a tour of the facility, giveaways, and information about services and products. Dr. Santos also has a clinic in Tampa.

Bayfront open house
Bayfront Health and Medical Group will host an open house and ribbon cutting on Sept. 22 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at 6340 Fort King Road in Zephyrhills. Come welcome new physicians, Elizabeth and Tommy John, who specialize in internal medicine and gastroenterology.

To RSVP, call (813) 782-6116.

East Pasco Networking
The East Pasco Networking Group will have its monthly breakfast meeting on Sept. 22 from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Rose’s Café, at 38426 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Pastor Scott Lindner of Atonement Lutheran Church.

For information, contact Nils Lenz at (813) 997-3903 or .

Ribbon cutting/grand opening
New Leaf Chiropractic Wellness Center will have a ribbon cutting on Sept. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., and a grand opening on Sept. 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 20290 Osprey Lane in Lutz. Come and meet Dr. Michael J. Pease.

The grand opening will feature food, drawings, giveaways, health screenings, and product samples. There will be a blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A fundraiser for Tampa Leadership and Philanthropy will benefit local veterans.

For information, contact New Leaf at (813) 254-2500.

The Tiki Cove docks on Lake Padgett

September 9, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Volleyball, a freshwater beach, and boats add up to a good time at The Tiki Cove on the shoreline of Lake Padgett.

Partners Dave Hipps and Steve Slowey are bringing a new tiki-style bar and restaurant to Land O’ Lakes, on Station Lane, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. They are kicking off with a series of weekend preview events on Sept. 11, 12 and 13.

Plans are to open The Tiki Cove every other weekend, at least for the next few months. Once permitting is complete, construction can begin on the brick-and-mortar bar and restaurant.

Dave Hipps, owner of Land O’ Lakes Marine, is starting a new venture with The Tiki Cove. He is encouraged by new development in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel, including Tampa Premium Outlets, and says the timing is right for a new waterfront bar and restaurant on Lake Padgett. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos) — Dave Hipps, owner of Land O’ Lakes Marine, is starting a new venture with The Tiki Cove. He is encouraged by new development in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel, including Tampa Premium Outlets, and says the timing is right for a new waterfront bar and restaurant on Lake Padgett.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

On the Mark Catering will provide the food, cocktails and beer, until the doors open on the bar and restaurant.

“We’re looking to slowly evolve it,” said Dave Hipps, who is partnering with restaurateur Steve Slowey on the venture.

Social media channels, primarily through The Tiki Cove Facebook page, are spreading the word. “It’s really letting people know what’s going on, “ Hipps said.

On Sept. 11, the public is invited to a VIP preview from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. On Sept. 12, a “catch and release” fishing tournament will take place in the morning to benefit the Myocarditis Foundation, and honor the memory of Austin Vonckx. Afterward, The Tiki Cove will be open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

And on Sept. 13, Sunday Fun Day will be held from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

One rule will be enforced. After 7 p.m., only people age 21 and older can be at The Tiki Cove.

“That’s going to be a strict guideline,” Hipps said.

Looking ahead, Rockstar Promotions will sponsor a volleyball tournament on Sept. 26 and Sept. 27.

Lake Padgett is the setting for The Tiki Cove, a shoreline bar and restaurant concept that will feature beach volleyball, food, drink and entertainment.

Until now, volleyball enthusiasts had to drive to Hogan’s Beach on the Courtney Campbell Causeway or Toasted Monkey in St. Petersburg. But now Hipps said, people can play closer to home.

Aside from volleyball, Hipps said other games including ring toss and Jenga will be available. The catering company will have specialty drinks, such as Blue Heaven and Tiki Breeze, and a menu of fish tacos, mahi-mahi and burgers.

And, there will be a dock and ample shoreline for boaters.

The partners, along with their wives Laura Hipps and Sheri Slowey, believe The Tiki Cove is coming in on a wave of new development in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel.

“(The area) just really needs more venues like this, so they don’t have to drive half an hour to St. Petersburg,” said Dave Hipps, who owns Land O’ Lakes Marine. “Growth is coming with the (Tampa Premium Outlets) mall. This should be a great success.”

The idea for The Tiki Cove came nearly five years ago, as Hipps and his wife took a boat ride and found themselves at a waterfront seafood restaurant off Gandy Boulevard. The style was Polynesian.

“We really fell in love with the concept,” Hipps said. “It had a great atmosphere. You could enjoy the water and have a drink.”

But, the economy had other plans.

“Obviously, the economy didn’t permit this, and the timing wasn’t right,” Hipps said.

Now, five years later, The Tiki Cove is here.

Temporary tents, and two volleyball courts, are set up at The Tiki Cove. Plans are to build a brick-and-mortar bar and restaurant in the coming months. On the Mark catering company will serve food, beer and specialty drinks in the interim.

Hipps couldn’t be happier, because the long wait meant his friend, Steve Slowey, was available to become his business partner.

Slowey owns several Beef O’ Brady’s restaurants, and The Brass Tap.

For Hipps, this is his first venture into the restaurant business, but he isn’t worried.

“I’ve owned businesses my whole life since college,” he said. “I’ve never done anything I didn’t own. I believe businesses are businesses. Businesses that are run right work, and Steve is such a great entrepreneur, and a food and drink expert.”

And, volleyball is a natural for Hipps, who played the sport at Ohio State University. His daughter, Brittany Rodrigues, played volleyball on scholarship while at Hillsborough Community College, before graduating from Florida State University.

He’s not sure why, but volleyball is a sport that always seems in style. “Maybe being down here on the beach,” Hipps said. “It’s just kind of making a resurgence.”

Eat Life Fishing Tournament
What: A fundraiser for the nonprofit Myocarditis Foundation in honor of Austin Vonckx
When: Sept. 12 from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tournament will end at 10:30 a.m., with prizes awarded at 11 a.m.
Where: The Tiki Cove, located on Station Lane, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard
Cost: $30 per person; a Florida freshwater fishing license and preregistration is required; a light breakfast will be served
For registration or more information text or call Eric at (813) 838-6868.

Published September 9, 2015

Mall leader enjoys building relationships

September 9, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Relationships are what Stacey Nance cares about the most.

It explains why she grew up and then settled on a career in her native Indiana.

And it is also why, after nearly two decades with Simon Property Group, she is taking the next big step in her life and her career.

Nance took the reins as general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets in May.

Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets. The regional mall, off State Road 54 near the Interstate 75 interchange, is scheduled to open on Oct. 29. (Fred Bellet/Photo) — Stacey Nance is the general manager of Tampa Premium Outlets. The regional mall, off State Road 54 near the Interstate 75 interchange, is scheduled to open on Oct. 29.
(Fred Bellet/Photo)

The regional outlet mall is the first major retail development in Pasco County since The Shops at Wiregrass opened in October 2008.

For Nance, the job opportunity is her first move away from Indiana, and her first time to take the lead in opening a Simon mall.

She graduated from Ball State College in Muncie, Indiana.

For 18 years, Nance has carved out a fast-paced career in marketing and later in mall management with Simon Property Group, again in Muncie.

She stayed in Muncie, despite working for a company that is the largest mall owner in the nation and also owns real estate properties all over the world.

“For the longest time I didn’t want to leave, because I wanted to raise my son in one community and in one school (district),” Nance said.

But, with her son’s graduation from college, the time felt right for a change. So, Nance jumped at the challenge to be in charge at Tampa Premium Outlets.

She knew after one quick visit that she wanted to set down roots in a new community.

“From the moment I was in the Wesley Chapel area, it made me feel so welcome,” Nance said. “My personality is that I love to form relationships and partnerships. That’s exactly what I want to continue here.”

The 441,000-square-foot outlet mall is set to open the weekend of Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.

The “Key West” style outlet center will feature 110 shops with widely known brands, such as Ralph Lauren, Saks Off Fifth, Michael Kors, Donna Karan and Vera Bradley.

The mall is in the spotlight as a driver of the local economy, a job generator and a regional draw for shopaholics.

Since arriving in May, Nance has put together a management team and immersed herself in the daily details and long-range planning for opening the mall.

Now, with the mall’s opening less than two months away, the anticipation is growing.

“We can’t imagine the amount of pride we’re going to have cutting the ribbon (for the mall),” Nance said.

At a recent job fair, Nance and her team oversaw logistics for an event that attracted more than 3,000 applicants in the hunt for more than 800 jobs the mall offers.

It was the first time Nance had the chance for face-to-face meetings with some of the mall’s tenants.

That personal connection was right up her alley.

“It gives them the opportunity to meet with me and start direct relationships,” she said. “I’m very much a people person.”

At Ball State, Nance earned a Bachelor of Science degree in marketing and management, with a specialization in sales and promotion. Her first job was as marketing director for a financial institution.

But, she said, “I needed additional challenges and professional growth.”

She started with Simon Property Group as marketing director at Muncie Mall. She worked there for nine years and then shifted into mall management. She was put in charge of overall operations at Muncie Mall, Muncie Plaza and Northwood Plaza in Indiana.

Management is her niche now.

“It’s so diverse,” Nance said. “I’ll work with a team, but on any given day I’ll do marketing, public relations or community relations.”

In the past, she has been part of a team that has pitched in to pull off opening day at a mall. This is her first time being in charge.

“When somebody really thinks about that, from below ground to the top of the roof, is our responsibility,” she said. “It’s an entire team that can pull off the opening of the entire center.”

The goal is to create a mall that feels as if it’s a gathering place.

“We want them (people) to come, and meet friends and family, just congregate,” Nance said. “Have a nice day out, and hang out in the mall.”

As she settles into her job, Nance also is planting roots in her new Florida community.

She recently closed on a new house, and expects to stay here for a long time.

“Now, this is my home,” she said. “I’m not a mover.”

Published September 9, 2015

Pasco sees big jump in single-family home sales

September 9, 2015 By Kathy Steele

The housing market in Tampa Bay is hot, hot, hot — and Pasco County is helping to turn up the heat.

In July, there were 963 closed sales of single-family homes in Pasco County, a whopping 38.4 percent increase over July 2014.

The median price of those homes was $157,000, up 4.8 percent over last year, according to the Greater Tampa Association of REALTORS Inc. (GTAR).

The association is the largest professional Tampa Bay-based group of licensed real estate brokers and sales associates. The monthly housing report compiles data from the Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater area.

Even as Pasco’s housing prices climb, single-family homes in the county remain something of a bargain compared to the region as a whole, and to pricier counties to the south, including Hillsborough County.

The Tampa Bay region had more than 4,500 closed sales of single-family homes in July 2015, up 30 percent over July 2014. The median price of a single-family home was $176,000, up 4.7 percent over last year.

In Hillsborough, the median price of single-family homes increased more than 10 percent to $205,000 in July 2015, up from $186,000 in July 2014, the housing report showed.

During the past months, the trend has been toward a resurgent seller’s market with houses selling at or near asking prices.

Tampa Bay buyers, on average, matched or bettered the seller’s price more than 94 percent of the time, an increase of more than 1 percent over July 2014. In Pasco, that happened about 93 percent of the time, a 2 percent increase over July 2014.

With sales on a fast pace, month-to-month inventory is decreasing.

“It is certainly a seller’s market,” said Thomas O’ Bryant Jr., chief executive officer of GTAR. “When we get to 5.8 months of inventory, it’s kind of the tipping point.”

As of July, in the four-county Tampa Bay region, there was a 3.8 months supply of houses. That’s down more than 21 percent from July 2014. In Pasco, the supply was 3.9 months, down nearly 29 percent from July 2014.

With demand up and inventory down, O’ Bryant said, “It drives up median sales prices.”

Houses also are being sold more quickly in every price range.

The median days on the market for single-family homes less than $50,000 was 36 days, a 50 percent decrease from July 2014. Houses in the $250,000 to under $300,000 range hung around the longest at 54 median days, a 20 percent decrease since last year.

The largest increases in closed sales was seen in the pricier homes with a 300 percent jump in the sales of single-family homes ranging from $600,000 to just under $1 million.

Closed sales of homes selling from between $300,000 to just under $400,000 went up by nearly 83 percent from July 2014 to July 2015.

Closed sales of single-family homes of less than $50,000 dropped nearly 1 percent. That was the only category experiencing a decline in closed sales.

Published September 9, 2015