The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

A splash of color, as garden work continues

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(Courtesy of Patricia Serio)

The work that the members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club have done on its Sensory Garden has progressed and taken shape with a very colorful look — brightly painted plant containers fashioned into floral petal shapes from recycled tires, and newly planted with perennials, in the hopes of attracting butterflies and bees. This garden, established “from scratch,” is to serve as a fun, colorful, quiet place of enjoyment for autistic and special needs children on the grounds of Camp Idlewild in Land O’ Lakes. Club member Deb Cardona paints planters to give a vibrant look to the garden.

Festival offers fun for kids, and adults, too

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The 12th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival had a new feature this year: Friday night festivities.

Lamar Marshall, of Lakeland, pit master for the Smoke Shack BBQ team prepares ribs and sausage to feed hungry patrons at the festival. (Fred Bellet)

Activities at the festival included a Kidz Grillin’ competition for fun and a more serious contest among adult pit masters, competing in the Florida Barbecue State Championship.

The event was held on the evening of March 4 and during the day on March 5.

Both days featured a chance to enjoy some succulent barbecue, to listen to blues music, to do some shopping, and to just hang out.

The Friday night activities were a big hit, said Melonie Monson, executive director of the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce.

The Kidz Grillin’ contest drew 25 contestants, who were split into five teams.

“They (the kids) had the time of their lives. We had five of our pit masters that mentored them,” Monson said.

“And, it was just fun for the parents, the siblings, the staff — everybody had a great time on Friday night with that,” she said.

It was all about the ribs for Gary White, of Dade City, as he chows down, under the dining tent, at the 2022 Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival. As he enjoyed his ribs, his wife, Lana White, sat nearby.

The bands draw a big crowd, too, she said.

The Friday festivities were “a real positive thing and probably something that we’ll continue doing,” Monson said.

The turnout the next day, however, was less than organizers had hoped for, Monson said. She noted the event was competing with the Florida Strawberry Festival, the boat show, the seafood festival and other events that day.

Still, Monson remained upbeat.

“We had a great day. The weather was beautiful,” she said.

She also said this year’s festival had some of the best bands that have played in the event’s history.

“They were just amazing,” Monson said.

Overall, the chamber executive said, “everybody seemed to have a great time. Our vendors did really well.”

Published March 13, 2022

Ed Wright opened the entertainment the morning of March 5, with his brand of blues at the 12th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival. Performing from the AdventHealth Zephyrhills stage, other entertainers included Jimmy Griswold, The Kid Royal Band and Memphis Lightning.
Patrons patiently waited in line to pick up some ribs, chicken and sausage from the ‘Off the Bone’ vendor’s tent. The grilling crew was one of many vendors serving up barbecue during the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival. The tent is adorned with flags from some of the team’s past BBQ competition wins.
Lovey, a 5-pound Toy Poodle, may be overwhelmed by the aroma of barbecue, but can simply look on while being carried in Vonna Carmickle’s purse. The Poinciana woman said it was their second visit to Pigz in Z’Hills.
Patrons patiently waited in line to pick up some ribs, chicken and sausage from the ‘Off the Bone’ vendor’s tent. The grilling crew was one of many vendors serving up barbecue during the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival. The tent is adorned with flags from some of the team’s past BBQ competition wins.
Shawn Smith, right, of Land O’ Lakes, and his opponent Drake Denny, of Brandon, take turns testing their skills during the Corn Hole Tournament.
Scotty Claus, of Zephyrhills, usually stays busy around Christmastime. But the Santa look-alike was asked to help judge the Kidz Grillin’ contest. Before judging began, Claus said he would look for good taste, good presentation and tender meat.

Light industrial development proposed for Lacoochee

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a land use change that is expected to set the stage for a light-industrial development in Lacoochee.

The land use change, approved by the county board on March 8, converted a 33-acre site from a residential designation to one that allows consideration of light-industrial uses.

The site is south of Coit Road, west of Bower Road, east of the CSX Railroad and north of Cummer Road.

The proposed One Lacoochee Center is expected to generate jobs for the Lacoochee-Trilby area.

The application was submitted through the county’s Office of Economic Growth.

There is a 0.21-acre parcel at the southwest corner of Chapman Street and the CSX Railroad, which is not included as part of this comprehensive plan amendment.

To the north of the subject side is the Pine Products Road right of way, Coit Road and the First Baptist Church of Lacoochee.

To the south is Lacoochee Elementary, Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, Citrus Villas I and Cypress Villas, I and II.

To the east of the property is the Bower Road right of way and the CSX Rail Line.

To the west is the West Cypress Manor wastewater treatment facility plant, Pine Products Road right of way and the CSX Rail Line.

The applicant also has filed a companion request for a rezoning to convert the existing zoning to a light-industrial park district.

Published March 13, 2022

In Loving Memory of Jamie Sue Anderson Parsons

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Jamie Sue Anderson Parsons, 71, of Dade City, Florida, passed away on January 11, 2022.

Jamie was a lifelong resident of Dade City.  She graduated from Pasco High School in 1968.  She worked for Withlacoochee River Electric Company for 33 years as a Customer Service Representative until she retired in 2003.

She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Randy Parsons, a son, Jon Parsons, a daughter and son-in-law, Kelley and Scott Russell along with 4 grandchildren, Jacob Russell, Jayden Parsons, Tyler Helms, and Dylan Helms as well as a brother, William (Billy) Anderson.

She is also survived by two special cousins that were more like sisters to her, Polly Hamm and Sallie Epting as well as 2 nephews, Mike Blocker and Todd Anderson (Cindy) and one niece Bekkah Church (Jared).

She also had a special relationship with the Gibson/Russell family.   She was preceded in death by her father, James (Jake) Anderson, mother Vera Anderson, sister Lora Lee Blocker Patterson, and nephew Scott Anderson.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 19, 2022 at the First Baptist Church of Dade City in the fellowship hall from 2-4 pm.

Originally Published 03/09/22

Avalon Park Applauds the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel

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Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

This nonprofit organization helps support local and international causes. The club has helped raise money for high school seniors, first responders, families in need, and even an ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) park in Wesley Chapel.

The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel has committed to devoting its efforts over the next three years to raise $500,000 to build a therapeutic home at the Bridging Freedom campus for young girls who are victims of sex trafficking.

According to the club’s website, the Bridging Freedom campus is at a secure location in the Tampa area, and it has approval for a total of seven homes. Two of these homes have already been built with the support of the Lazy Days Employee Foundation and the Chuck Sykes Foundation. The club’s goal is that the Rotary House will be the third home.

“Raising money for the home is a huge project. But when the club heard about the human trafficking issue, we made it our mission,”  says Charane Groeller, current president of the Rotary club.

If you or someone you know is a roofer, electrician, plumber, landscaper, and/or general contractor, or has building materials, Groeller encourages you to reach out to the Rotary club to donate your time/services for this project.

The main way the Rotary club is able to help support organizations like Bridging Freedom is through fundraising events.

The club’s next big event is at the sixth annual Pasco Blues Fest Benefit Concert, which is happening this Saturday, March 12, from noon to 8 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Tickets are $20 at the gate, and 100% of the profits will go to the fundraising of the therapeutic home for sex-trafficking victims.

The Rotary club meets every Wednesday at Lexington Oaks, in Wesley Chapel, at noon. Meetings usually last about an hour and a half. The club currently has 78 members.

“We are a fun and vibrant club,” says Groeller. “We have bankers, realtors, insurance agents, accountants and lawyers just to name a few. We all get along pretty well. I think it’s because we all have one mission: to help the community.”

Groeller welcomes anyone interested to join. There is an application fee and quarterly dues.

For more information, go to WCRotary.com, email , or call 813- 493-1329.

Motorists expected to encounter delays on Blanton Road

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A resurfacing project on Blanton Road, between Parrish Grove Road to 21st Street, was set to begin on March 7 and is expected to conclude in 21 days, according to a Pasco County news release.

The county shared the information to alert motorists to be aware of the resurfacing project, which will result in single-lane closures and minor delays on the road.

The work involves resurfacing the existing road and adding new pavement markings, with the goal of creating better roadway conditions, according to the release.

Work hours will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, throughout the duration of the project, the news release says.

Motorists should expect to see message boards to direct traffic.

Asphalt Paving Systems Inc., is the contractor for this Pasco County public works project.

For a map of the project, visit bit.ly/3JRz6Vq.

Published March 09, 2022

This fair delivered heaping helpings of fun

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Pirate Dan Man, right, also known as Daniel Jolley of Groton, Vermont, performed daily from his strolling mobile ship, at the fair. Here, he introduces 3-year-old Mayer Henry, of Dade City, as his assistant. Mayer was enjoying the fair with his dad, Jamie Floyd, of Dade City. (Fred Bellet)

From the joy that comes from hearing children laugh with delight, to the aroma of fried foods filling the air, to the spectacle of contestants gorging themselves with spaghetti — the 75th annual Pasco County Fair had myriad opportunities for people to have a good time.

A giant talking robot strolled through the fairgrounds cracking jokes.

Rides offered speed, thrills and dazzling lights.

Gospel singers and karaoke performers entertained the crowds.

And, of course, there were chances to compete in home craft categories, and at livestock shows.

For some, the trip to the fair, at 36722 State Road 52, in Dade City, was a pleasant way to spend time with family and catch up with old friends.

The theme of this year’s fair, from Feb. 21 to Feb. 27, was “Memories Made New.”

There were plenty of chances to do that — to make new memories, that is.

Published March 09, 2022

It’s lonely at the top for this Cochin breed chicken that took first place at the 75th annual Pasco County Fair. The blue ribbon for this winner went to Academy at the Farm 4-H and Progressive 4-H member, 9-year-old Aidon Oakley, of Zephyrhills.
Jesse Pinkston, a Possum Trot 4-H member, leads his steer across the arena during judging of the showmanship event. Pinkston was in the class 2 junior division.
Dade City’s Salvatore Ficchi digs in to a bowl of spaghetti during the Spaghetti Eddie’s Spaghetti-Eating Contest. Ficchi was the first to sign up for the pasta-consuming event. James Lloyd, a visitor from New Jersey, claimed first place in the race.
Lily Briscoe waits for the judging results in the junior division steer showmanship competition. The Progressive 4-H member has a shoulder to share with her steer.
A lengthy camera exposure shows part of the path of the whirling and twirling amusement ride called The Beast. Others wait their turn during a visit to the midway, at the 75th annual Pasco County Fair.
Contestants line up during the Miss Heart Pageant in the Dan Cannon Auditorium during the 75th annual Pasco County Fair.
The Ferris wheel’s lights create a beautiful pattern high above the Pasco County Fairgrounds.
Performing on the stage at the Dan Cannon Auditorium stage, from left, Roland Kesterson, Isaac Moore, Wyatt Austin and Luke Vaught make up The Inspirations, a Gospel music group. They were among the slate of entertainers at the 75th annual Pasco County Fair.
Corlyn Lloyd peeks from behind a curtain, moments before the introduction of the Miss Heart contestants. She was checking out the crowd in the Dan Cannon Auditorium.

 

Prayers for Ukraine featured at Ash Wednesday service

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Pope Francis designated this Ash Wednesday as a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Ukraine, which Saint Leo University observed through a 5 p.m. Mass dedicated to praying for peace in Ukraine.

Students assisted with the Mass at St. Leo Abbey Church, which concluded with lighting candles and praying the “Peace Prayer of St. Francis.”

University Ministry student-leaders; Father Randall Meissen, university chaplain; and Father Anthony Ujagbo, graduate assistant, distributed blessed ashes outside of the Saint Jude Chapel clock tower at University Campus from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., on March 2, according to a university news release.

Father Anthony Ujagbo makes the sign of the cross on the forehead of Vice President of Student Affairs Jen Shaw. The priest was part of a team distributing ashes on Ash Wednesday, which was March 2, at Saint Leo University. (Courtesy of Isaac Jeter/Saint Leo University)

A rollicking good time

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(Courtesy of Patricia Serio)

The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club members’ troupe gave a ‘Sisters Act’-style performance as old-school nuns in full habits, to entertain members and guests at a recent club meeting. The troupe sang and danced to the tune, ‘I Will Follow Him.’ From left: Dee Knerr, Kay Taylor, Annette Bellingar, and Elayne Bassinger, who portrayed Mother Superior. For more information on the club, visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org, or its Facebook page.

Dr. Eugene Linus Kavanagh

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A greatly loved man by many, Dr. Eugene Linus Kavanagh (age 74) passed away peacefully in his Florida home on February 19th 2022.  He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Rondzo Phillip Kavanagh and Mary Linus Kavanagh (Blake), as well as his beloved sister, Eileen Jane Kavanagh.

Eugene was born in Brooklyn, NY and grew up in Farmingdale, NY.  He attended the Main Street School and then Chaminade High School in Mineola graduating in 1964.  He then went to Fordham University where he obtained his pre-med undergraduate degree in 1968.  Eugene continued his studies at Duke University in NC before attending New York Medical college.  It was during this time he met his wife, Peggy Ann Kavanagh (Orlando).  He graduated with his medical degree in 1974 and shortly afterwards he married the love of his life at Holy Child parish in Staten Island, NY on January 10th 1976.  He spent the rest of his life loving her.

Eugene is survived by his wife, Peggy, his son, Sean Michael Kavanagh, his daughter Kristen Marie Kavanagh, his daughter-in-law Rachel Elizabeth Kavanagh (Brewer) and grandchildren, Bradyn Linus Kavanagh, Clare London Kavanagh, and Audrey Eileen Kavanagh.

Eugene practiced Urology in New York, Ohio, Texas, and Tennessee touching the lives of not only his patients but also his coworkers.  He was both a skilled physician, and an overall great guy.  His friends and colleagues will remember him fondly for his many (often irreverent) jokes, and one-of-a-kind personality.

After 31 years of practicing medicine Eugene was able to fulfill his dream of retiring inf Florida, building his dream home in sunny Land O’ Lakes with his wife.  He spent his retirement enjoying the Florida weather, playing tennis with friends whenever he could, helping his grandson with schoolwork, spending time with his granddaughters and going on family vacations as much as possible.

He will be tremendously missed, but he would want those who knew him to remember him with a smile.

A wake will be held at Hanley Funeral Home between 5 pm and 8 pm on Staten Island on Friday Feb 25th with a mass and burial the following day (Feb 26th) at Holy Child Catholic Church, also on Staten Island, NY.

In lieu of flowers, we’re asking for donations to Moffitt Cancer Center in his memory.

Published 03/02/2022