The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Dynamic Duo Transforms Wedding Events

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From diverse family backgrounds rooted in Vietnam and Puerto Rico, Bich (pronounced Bic) Le and Sandy Baez run Plantation Palms Golf Club’s new, elegant Banquet Center overlooking the golf course.

With over 40 years of combined event planning expertise, the two deliver an unparalleled wedding experience in Plantation Palms’ new venue. By listening to their clients, Le brings their vision to life, and Baez builds and orchestrates every detail to perfection.

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After a church in the mountains of North Carolina sponsored Le’s family in 1979, Le’s father, a Vietnamese officer fighting alongside Americans, led his family halfway around the world to Banner Elk, North Carolina. There, they could pursue the American Dream.

For over 20 years, Le’s imaginative style for weddings was developed by running hundreds of events at Sotheby’s International Realty and Ruth’s Chris Steak House. She created memorable experiences that brought the imagination of her clients to life, and as director of sales at Plantation Palms, she brings that knowledge to the table when helping new clientele.

Concurrently, Baez navigated an entrepreneurial path leading to her present position as Plantation Palms banquet manager. Born and raised in Connecticut, her family hails from Puerto Rico. Baez leveraged her highly creative flair and attention to detail as a certified wedding planner and officiant.

“I grew my own wedding planning business, staging every type and size of event, while raising two sons and pursuing my other love of culinary school,” said Baez. While Bich sells the events, Sandy’s services are offered to craft every detail and décor to client’s taste and budget.

The women’s passion and expertise have led to a surge in events at Plantation Palms Golf Club. Built in 2017, the center’s spacious, high-ceilinged banquet room holds up to 200 guests, and boasts sparkling chandeliers and breathtaking sunset views from grand picture windows, and an extensive, covered veranda. From meetings to bar mitzvahs, quinceaneras to weddings, it is a full-service venue of which membership isn’t required.

“We have affordable and customizable wedding packages,” said Le. “We can include everything from champagne toasts and cake cuttings to an onsite event coordinator, to ensure a flawless execution.

Those considering a wedding or other event are invited to meet with Le and Baez for a tour of the venue and to exchange ideas. They value working closely with each bride to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Contact information: Bich Le: 813-996-4653, ext. 158
23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
PlantationPalms.net

The Demand for ICI Homes Continues to Soar in Pasco County

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There’s still a large number of buyers from different markets across the country trying to move to Pasco County.

“We’re continuing to see an overwhelming amount of interest from the East to West coasts,” says Greg Jones, Tampa division manager for ICI Homes.

Because of the high demand, ICI Homes is offering limited releases on a monthly basis in Lake Jovita.

The Primrose is Persimmon Park’s most popular floor plan.

“We are seeing a lot of growth in Dade City. Families love the short, 20-minute drive to Wesley Chapel and the old-fashioned charm of downtown Dade City,” says Jones.

The Arden floor plan is just one home in Lake Jovita that is being offered to potential buyers.

The Arden is a 2,402-square-foot, 4 bed/3 bath, one-story home that is designed for entertaining and Florida living. The foyer leads to a large living room centrally located for maximum convenience. A spacious gourmet kitchen and dining area are perfect for entertaining guests or spending quality time with the family. Views from the dining room look out on the covered lanai and large backyard.

“My favorite part about the Arden is the open living area, along with the master suite and bathroom,” says Jones.

The master suite features a luxurious bath and a large double-entry walk-in closet. The home is designed so that children and guests can enjoy their own separate spaces. It also includes a 3-car garage.

Connerton is Almost Sold Out
As for Connerton, Jones says the demand is equally as high and warns that the community is almost completely sold out.

“Connerton, Pasco County’s largest, master-planned, mixed-use community is located in Land O’ Lakes and is one of the developments that many people are interested in,” says Jones.

Only four homesites are currently available at Connerton, but a recent showcase home in the community will be ready by the end of the year for potential buyers.

A popular gated community within Connerton, Rose Pointe, offers a clubhouse with a full-time activities director, fitness center, gym, large resort-style pool and more. This small, gated community is one of the many features that makes Connerton stand out to potential homebuyers.

Another gem in the Rose Pointe community is the Connerton Nature Preserve, which features a scenic 2-mile trail that winds through natural wilderness, lakes and wetlands. The trail’s 10-foot-wide sidewalks allow for easy biking and walking through Connerton’s picturesque landscape.

Phase Two of Persimmon Park Is Moving Ahead of Schedule
The land development team is working hard on phase two, and Jones is excited for the recent progress.

“With the continued high demand for the Wesley Chapel area, we are excited to have finished phase one of Persimmon Park and are looking forward to starting phase two hopefully this summer,” says Jones.

Located in Wesley Chapel by The Shops at Wiregrass, all Persimmon Park homes have open floor plans with front porches, and garages and alleys at the back of the home. Its amenity center includes a unique T-shaped luxury pool, with cabanas and a grilling area.

The Primrose is Persimmon Park’s most popular floor plan. This two-story plan features nearly 2,500 square feet of living space, with a master bedroom suite on the main level, along with one guest bedroom and bathroom. The spacious living area is connected to a beautiful kitchen and dining area with plenty of room for family and friends to gather. The second story includes two additional bedrooms, a full bath, and a bonus room that is perfect for gaming, entertaining, family time or guest privacy.

ICI Homes model homes are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday. The Persimmon Park model is at 3793 Lajuana Blvd., Wesley Chapel; and the Lake Jovita Sales Center is at 12330 Lake Jovita Blvd., in Dade City. To schedule a VIP appointment, call 844-349-6401, or email Jones at .

Published April 27, 2022

Live Jazz is Back at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel

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Supporting the arts and providing a venue for local artists have always been core goals of Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, a master-planned community located east of Interstate 75 on State Road 54. The latest addition to this vision is Jazz Under the Starz, which has been hosting monthly concerts at Avalon Park’s downtown area.

“There is something about music that soothes the soul and brings people together,” says Arlene Brooks, organizer of Jazz Under the Starz and owner of Coffee Speaks N Tea Talks in New Tampa.

“Music doesn’t have a color to it — it brings people together and makes your soul feel good. Music is my inspiration, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than watching people come together to share in this joy.”

“We are so excited to bring Jazz Under the Starz to our community,” says Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing for the Avalon Park Group. “We love offering things to do for our families, and especially have a passion for sharing the arts. Jazz under the Starz is exactly the type of organization we want to support, and fits perfectly with our goal of enhancing and bringing more attention to arts and culture.”

Jazz Under the Starz is held every third Saturday of the month, with a different band performing at each concert.

“These types of concerts and events really aren’t going on anywhere else in New Tampa/Wesley Chapel,” says Brooks.

“I want it to be a place where people can come and join together to celebrate the music. Everybody loves music, and it helps you forget about the hardships of life.”

The next Jazz Under the Starz concert will be on May 21, at 33501 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, located behind Pinecrest Academy, on Avalon Park property.

Project Necessary will be the headline act, and will bring a smooth mix of Jazz, Funk and R&B to Jazz Under the Starz.

For the past 20 years, Project Necessary has entertained audiences globally in places such as Hawaii, Japan, Singapore, Spain, Turkey and Egypt.

The group’s nucleus consists of Dave Chipman (drums), Sam Diego (keys), Al Chisim (Sax) and bassist Dale Horton.

General admission is $20, which can be purchased at JazzUnderTheStarz.com. Kids under 12 get in for free, and Brooks says pets are allowed as long as they aren’t aggressive and the owners are cleaning up after their furry friends.

Concert guests also can bring their own lawn chairs and coolers.

For more information about the musical events, visit JazzUnderTheStarz.com.

There’s No Planned Community Like Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel began building its first homes in 2012. Today, 1,000 homes have been completed or are underway, and residents enjoy unique amenities, neighborhood schools, and easy access to Tampa, Lakeland and Orlando.

“We are not just developers — we are building a brand new town,” said Lerret. “We’re so much more than just another planned community – we’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today and in the future.”

Homes in the residential community range in price from the mid $200s to over $400s.

“Our builders offer homes for everyone, from teachers to physicians to empty-nesters wanting the convenience of the no-fuss, townhome lifestyle,” said Lerret.

Downtown Avalon Park
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will offer places to shop and work in its downtown hub that will be connected to its residential neighborhoods by tree-lined streets, walkways and bike paths.

“We are building a traditional downtown, with stores located inside of our community on the boulevard road leading to our residences, parks and schools,” said Lerret. “We are creating a town that spreads out from the town center connecting to individual neighborhoods — very much like the footprints of small towns found across America.”

The first phase of downtown Avalon Park Wesley Chapel will include 130,000 square feet of mixed-use commercial space and apartments built above the storefronts.

“We’re building beautiful, multi-story buildings with commercial space designed for businesses our residents want close to home — restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, bars and entertainment, hair and nail salons, as well as activities like dance, gymnastic and karate studios,” said Lerret.

Eventually, Avalon Park’s downtown will have more than 560,000 square feet of retail, and 120,000 square feet of office space. At build out, this 1,650-acre master-planned community will have about 4,400 single and multi-family homes, and be home to 10,000 residents.

Published April 27, 2022

Cornerstone Pros: Family Owned and Operated for 16 Years

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When Dana Spears founded Cornerstone Pros in 2006, the company began as a small family AC business that was run out of her home. The first few years, she continued working a part-time job in the commercial insurance industry, raising her three small children. She worked every day to build her new business.

“We credit our growth on our founding principles of placing our customers and employees first – without them we would not be the company we are today,” said Spears.

Today, Cornerstone still values being a true family business – her children, who are now grown, work daily to continue supporting the community. The company has grown tremendously since 2006 and now employs over 95 employees who provide air conditioning, electrical and plumbing services to households in Pasco, Hillsborough, Hernando and Pinellas counties.

‘We’ve been successful because we’ve built our business on integrity, reputation and trust,” said Spears. “Our motto is to go above and beyond customer expectations, and every one of our employees strives to make that happen every day.”

Spears attributes her company’s longevity and the strong commitment to the local community to its firm foundation.

“It is truly a wonderful feeling to have gone through years of bumps and bruises with all of our growing pains and to be able to look at what our team has accomplished by becoming a highly rated company in the industry,” said Spears.

Staffing shortages and industry changes require local business leaders to think outside of the box to fit a customer’s needs. Spears knows this. She is hands-on, and is continuously adjusting her team to accommodate the ever-evolving world we live in, to best benefit the community. As a mother with children, she also knows the importance of customer service, especially when it comes to allowing someone into your home. Her skilled technicians are trained to treat every home as if it’s their president’s home.

“We are so thankful to be celebrating our 16th year in business. We hope that you choose to work with our team on any of your home service needs,” said Spears. “You can take advantage of our online coupons and let us exceed your expectations.”

Cornerstone Pros’ phones are answered 24/7. Call at 813-949-4445, or visit their website, CornerstonePros.com, for live chats and scheduling.

Published April 27, 2022

State Road 56 closure planned at I-75, weather permitting

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The closure of State Road 56 to all traffic, at Interstate 75, is planned to begin at 11 p.m., on April 30 and to end in the late afternoon of May 1 — weather permitting.

The closure is needed to accommodate reconfiguring the intersection to create the Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) traffic pattern, according to a news release from the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT’s) District Seven office.

(Courtesy of the District Seven Office of the Florida Department of Transportation)

A closure of State Road 56 at this location had been planned before, but was forced to be delayed because of the weather.

When the closure is in effect, no traffic will be allowed to travel through the work zone across I-75.

When the traffic pattern switches to the DDI on May 1, it will not operate at full capacity until the project is closer to completion, expected in Summer 2022.

That’s because the contractor will need to complete more work to open an additional through-lane on both eastbound and westbound State Road 56, and an additional turn lane from the northbound exit ramp onto westbound State Road 56, according to FDOT.

Here are the details on the detours during the planned April 30 through May 1 closure:

Eastbound State Road 56: Eastbound State 56 traffic will be detoured to the northeast on Wesley Chapel Boulevard (County Road 54) to State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard), then south on State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard) back to State Road 56. Additionally, the right-turn lanes on the south side of State Road 56 at Grand Cypress Boulevard onto eastbound State Road 56 will be closed and the left-turn lanes at Grand Cypress Boulevard on the north side of State Road 56 will be closed to prevent travel onto eastbound State Road 56. The eastbound State Road 56 ramp onto southbound I-75 will be open; any traffic traveling on eastbound State Road 56 past Grand Cypress Boulevard will be forced to enter southbound I-75.

Westbound State Road 56: Westbound State Road 56 traffic wanting to cross I-75 will be directed north on State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard) to State Road 54, then southwest on County Road 54 (Wesley Chapel Boulevard) to State Road 56. Any westbound State Road 56 traffic between State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard) and Cypress Ridge Boulevard will be directed to U-turn at Cypress Ridge Boulevard to head back east on State Road 56 to State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard) and follow the remainder of the route outlined above.

Access to I-75: Available at the State Road 54/County Road 54/Wesley Chapel Boulevard interchange north of State Road 56 or Bruce B. Downs Boulevard interchange south of State Road 56. The only access to I-75 will be from eastbound State Road 56 onto southbound I-75.

Northbound I-275 and northbound I-75 to State Road 56: Access will only be open onto eastbound State Road 56. The northbound I-275 (Exit 59) and northbound I-75 (Exit 275) exit ramps to westbound State Road 56 will be closed. Drivers wanting to go west on State Road 56 will continue north past State Road 56 and use I-75 (Exit 279) to State Road 54/County Road 54. At the bottom of the ramp, turn left and go southwest on Wesley Chapel Boulevard/County Road  54 to State Road 56 and State Road 54, west of I-75.

Due to expected periodic backups on the Exit 279 ramp to westbound County Road 54/Wesley Chapel Boulevard, northbound I-75 drivers wanting to go west of I-75 on State Road 56 might consider using Exit 270 to State Road 581/Bruce B. Downs Boulevard and continue traveling north on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard to State Road 54/County Road 54/ Wesley Chapel Boulevard, or take alternate east to west routes.

Southbound I-75 to State Road 56: Use Exit 279 to State Road 54/County Road 54. At the bottom of the ramp, turn left and go east on State Road 54. Turn right onto State Road 581 (Bruce B. Downs Boulevard) and go south to State Road 56.

Detour Route to State Road 56, west of Interstate 75: Use Exit 279 to State Road 54/County Road 54. At the bottom of the ramp, turn right and go southwest on Wesley Chapel Boulevard/County Road 54 to State Road 56.

Visit FDOTTampaBay.com/project/262/430573-1-52-01, for the latest information about the planned detour.

Published April 27, 2022

Operation Stand Down offers a hand to homeless veterans

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Operation Stand Down offers an opportunity for veterans to take advantage of safe harbor from “combat on the streets” for one weekend a year.

Operation Stand Down refers to a grassroots, community-based intervention program designed to help the nation’s estimated 38,000 homeless veterans, according to Operation Stand Down’s web page.

The event provides a time for the community to connect with our homeless veterans and to begin to break down the barriers that are keeping these heroes on the streets.

The “hand up, not a handout” philosophy of Operation Stand Down requires the work of volunteers, businesses, and local, state and national organizations.

Organizations will be available to provide direct services; veterans will have access to benefits they are entitled to receive; and referrals will be offered for those struggling with mental health, job, housing and addiction issues.

Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles shared news of the event during the Pasco County Commission’s April 19 meeting.

This year’s event is set for April 29 and April 30, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on both days, at The Concourse Rotary Pavilion, 111919 Alric Pottberg Road, in Shady Hills, off State Road 52, just west of the Suncoast Parkway.

Online registration for the event is open and walk-up registration begins on April 29 at 10 a.m.

Veterans taking part will have access to:

  • Free public bus transportation, to those who preregister
  • Free sleeping area
  • Free hot meals
  • Free notary services
  • A job fair
  • AA, NA and Celebrate Recovery support groups
  • Haircuts, showers and clothing
  • Medical and dental services
  • Behavioral and mental health services
  • Housing resources
  • State photo identification cards
  • Jobs and employment counseling
  • Personal hygiene kits
  • Women and children services
  • Recreation, such as cornhole, card games and other activities

For more information, visit OCNStandDown.org.

Want to help?
Here are some ways you can help with this year’s Operation Stand Down, according to the organization’s web page:

  • Donate goods: Reading glasses, boots, backpacks, personal hygiene items and more
  • Donate time: Volunteers are needed to cut hair, serve meals, set-up, clean up, sort donations, provide medical and dental services, massages, therapy, and so on.
  • Provide needed goods and services for veterans and their families
  • Be a corporate sponsor
  • Donate funds to help purchase food, personal hygiene items, tents, port-o-lets, sleeping cots and other necessary supplies

For more information, visit OCNStandDown.org.

Published April 27, 2022

Hillsborough boards need volunteers

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Hillsborough County has a number of advisory boards and councils that have openings for volunteers.

Those interested in serving on these boards must live in Hillsborough County and be registered to vote there.

Applicants may apply to more than one board, but can only serve on one board at the same time, unless otherwise specifically approved by the Hillsborough County Commission.

Applicants must submit a completed Questionnaire for County Appointments and a Standards of Conduct form.

Forms are available on the County’s website at HCFLGov.net. Click on the “Government” link on the top of the page, then the “Boards and Committees” link. The forms can be filled out and printed, then scanned and emailed, faxed or mailed.

All forms must be signed and dated, and all questions must be answered in entirety to be eligible. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Those applying to a board that requires a background check will be contacted by Hillsborough County’s Human Resources Department and/or First Choice with a link to complete the online background check. A response within 48 hours is required, at which time the link will expire.

Applications are due by the close of business on May 5.

Appointments will be scheduled for a meeting of the Hillsborough County Commission in May or June.

Forms can be mailed to P. O. Box 1110, Tampa, FL 33601.

Or, they can be emailed to , or faxed to 813-239-3916.

They also may be delivered to 601 E. Kennedy Blvd., 2nd Floor, Tampa, 33602.

Here are the boards with openings:

  • Anti-Bullying Advisory Committee
  • Building Board of Adjustment, Appeals and Examiners
  • CareerSource Tampa Bay
  • Child Care Licensing Advisory Board
  • Child Care Licensing Hearing Officer
  • Code Enforcement Board
  • Council on Aging
  • County Internal Audit Committee
  • Cross Connection and Backflow Control Board
  • Cultural Assets Commission
  • Electrical Board of Adjustment, Appeals and Examiners
  • Health Care Advisory Board
  • Health Council of West Central Florida Inc.
  • Historic Preservation Challenge Grant Program Review Committee
  • Historic Resources Review Board
  • Historical Advisory Council
  • Hospital Authority
  • Human Relations Board
  • Land Use Appeals Board
  • Mechanical Board of Adjustment, Appeals and Examiners
  • Plumbing & Gas Board of Adjustment, Appeals and Examiners
  • Public Art Committee
  • Value Adjustment Board

For any questions or more specific information on any of these boards, email  .

Published April 27, 2022

Name that mural

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Main Street Zephyrhills and the City of Zephyrhills are seeking help to name the mural shown here.

(Courtesy of Main Street Zephyrhills)Main 

The mural is part of the “Elements on 5th” public art series.

It’s in Transplant Park, a park that covers 0.2-acres, at Fifth Avenue and 12th Street.

The mural was inspired by a water drop landing in water.

It was designed by Main Street board member Christine Bennett.

Volunteers from the Design Committee chalked the outline and painted the mural earlier this year.

This is one of five murals located around town as part of the transformation strategy to revitalize and strengthen downtown Zephyrhills, through four aspects: Economic Vitality, Design, Organization and Promotion.

To learn more about the murals, log onto MainStreetZephyrhills.org/murals.

To submit your name suggestion for the new mural, visit log onto Form.jotform.com/220933714975059.

Published April 27, 2022

Why is Proper Digestion So Important?

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Shannon Corkrean, Magnolia Pharmacy (File)

When people think of digestion issues, most think about uncomfortable and embarrassing symptoms such as bloating, passing gas, burping, constipation and diarrhea. But there are some lesser-known symptoms, which include feeling full after eating a couple of bites; feeling tired shortly after eating; loss of taste for meat; anemia; strong body odor; and sleeping problems.  If you are not breaking down the foods you eat, then you are not getting the nutrients out of those foods. For instance, if you are not properly absorbing B vitamins when you eat – then you may feel tired all the time. Making sure food is being completely digested, and making adjustments to diet your is sometimes the best place to start to help with chronic conditions.

Squirting a couple of drops of digestive bitters into your mouth before you eat can do wonders when improving digestion. You may hear the word bitters and automatically think about your favorite fancy alcoholic beverage, but bitters are so much more. Bitters are made by infusing a variety of medicinal herbs and work by stimulating digestive juices, bile and enzymes to help break down food. Depending on the medicinal herb used when creating bitters, they are also used to boost the immune system, help with inflammation, control appetite and sugar cravings, and improve liver health.

Think you may have digestion issues or wonder which bitter is right for you? Stop in to Magnolia Pharmacy for more information or schedule a consultation at www.magnoliapharmacyll.com, and as always, consult your health care professional before taking a new supplement.

Starkey Ranch event features ‘a little night music’

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The outdoor basketball courts on the edge of the physical education field at Starkey Ranch K-8 provided a place for the audience to watch the performance. (Fred Bellet)

The Starkey Ranch K-8 School teamed up with Michael Francis, music director for The Florida Orchestra, to present the Starkey Symphony Spectacular.

The outdoor concert featured performances by Starkey K-8 musicians, community members, and members of The Florida Orchestra, under the direction of Maestro Francis.

The event was held outdoors on the physical education fields at Starkey Ranch K-8, in Odessa.

Attendees were encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs, and purchase food from the food trucks there.

The event was free, but the school received a portion of the food truck proceeds and donations, to support the school’s music programs.

Conductor Mariah Walukonis led the orchestra with Maestro Michael Francis during the Starkey Symphony Spectacular.
Violinist Jeffrey Mutter, of The Florida Orchestra, performs a piece for the audience.
Scott Carlson’s phone captures the performance by the Starkey Ranch K-8 Chorus. Carlson, of Odessa, is the school’s physical education teacher; his wife, Megan Carlson, teaches kindergarten. The video of the day was of their son, 11-year-old Lucas Carlson, who sang in the chorus.
From left: 5-year-old Guga Alvarenga, 6-year-old Duda Alvarenga, 9-year-old Brianna Semsedin, 6-year-old Liam Semsedin and 9-year-old Lilly Labruzzo watch the concert from the VIP section.

 

 

Michael Francis leads an orchestra comprised of sixth- and seventh-grade students from Starkey Ranch K-8; high school students from Mitchell, Gulf and River Ridge; community members; and musicians from The Florida Orchestra. That brought the total size of the group to 75.
Ray Gadd, deputy superintendent of Pasco County Schools, offers remarks about the musically talented students at Starkey Ranch K-8.