The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Ralph ‘Rick” Butrick Jr.

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Passed away peacefully on February 24, 2021 at his home in Land O Lakes, Fl, with his wife Laura Butrick, of 36 years, by his side.

Rick loved his family, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and was an avid NASCAR fan. Rick had a larger- than-life personality which is why he will be missed by so many.

He is survived by his wife Laura, & his daughter Krysta and son-in-law Miguel Rosello.

Siblings; Barbie (more like a daughter) and husband Gary Thronson, Debbie Fields, Pam Wallace and Curtis Butrick as well as several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, Earl and Barbara Dean; mother JoAnne Dean; father, Ralph Butrick and brother Brian Butrick.

Until we meet again – love you forever!

Published on 3/17/21.

New River Branch Library celebrates its revival

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Artwork adorned the walls of the main lobby.

A butterfly release was held outdoors.

This sign helps guide visitors to New River Branch Library and its Discovery Gardens, at 34043 State Road 54, in Wesley Chapel, near Zephyrhills. The library has been updated through an extensive renovation. (Fred Bellet)

Speakers addressed the crowd, and people toured the building and grounds, as the New River Branch Library, at 34043 State Road 54, celebrated its rededication.

The $2.8 million project — including design, construction, furnishings, technology and associated expenses — is one of seven library renovation projects being completed through General Obligation bonds approved by voters in 2018.

From the outside, New River’s red brick building, constructed in 1991, looks much the same.

But now, the Discovery Gardens is on the east side of the building, and additional trees and flowering plants on the library’s campus give the property a fresh, new look.

Indoors, the library space is brighter and more open. The update includes new flooring, restrooms, seating and technology.

The space has been reconfigured to provide more opportunities for public use.

There’s a children’s room, a teen room, study rooms, a community room and other spaces designed to meet various needs.

This library is far more than just a place to read and check out books.

It’s a place where adults gather to do chair yoga, crochet or knit; children gather for story time; and, people of all ages garden and take advantage of the library’s many other offerings.

Published May 04, 2022

Dignitaries and people involved in the renovation project prepare to perform the ribbon-cutting, signaling the rededication of the New River Branch Library.
Discovery Gardens is located on the east side of New River Branch Library. Because of its location, it gets plenty of early morning sunshine. Four-year-old Riley Roby is watering some of the lettuce leaf basil and other vegetables growing in the garden. The Wesley Chapel boy was there with his mom, Bethany, and his 1-year-old brother, Judah.
Residents, staff and members of the Friends of the Library, fill the main lobby at the New River Branch Library rededication ceremony.
A sunflower blooms in the Discovery Gardens at the New River Branch Library.
Ted Williamson, of Williamson Design Associates, spoke during the rededication ceremony.
Jane Kane, left, and Oaklee Gagnon, right, both of Dade City, check out the seed library for those wanting to cultivate plants or flowers. The two women were among members of the Friends of the Library.
After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, the butterfly release and touring through the New River Library, Judy Semonick, left, of Wesley Chapel, and Pat Smith, of Zephyrhills, take a break inside the library to cool down.
George Tharin, senior project architect from Williamson Design Associates, shares details about the library’s update.
Angelo Liranzo was one of the event’s masters of ceremonies who introduced people who played a role in revitalizing the library and creating the Discovery Gardens. Normally, Liranzo is based at the Hugh Embry Branch Library, in Dade City.

 

Ceremony celebrates new Dade City leaders

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The Dade City Commission swore in a new mayor, a new mayor pro-tem, a new commissioner and an incumbent, during the commission’s April 26 meeting.

Jim Shive is the city’s new mayor, replacing Camille Hernandez, who retired from elected office. Knute Nathe is the new mayor pro tem. Ann Cosentino will fill the seat vacated by Hernandez, and Scott Black was reelected to another term.

Hernandez was elected in 2006 to a commission seat and served as mayor from 2012 until retiring in 2022.

Commissioners unanimously elected Shive as the city’s mayor and Nathe as the mayor pro tem.

Published May 04, 2022

The Dade City Commission, from left are Knute Nathe, Jim Shive, Scott Black, Ann Cosentino and Normita ‘Angel’ Woodard. Commissioners selected Shive as the city’s mayor and Nathe as mayor pro tem. (Courtesy of Jennifer Tussing)
Dade City Mayor Jim Shive, right, shakes hands with Mayor Pro Tem Knute Nathe during a City Commission Meeting on April 26.

Residential buildings to get taller in Pasco?

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The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval to a change in the county’s land development code that would allow residential buildings to be a maximum of 45 feet, which is 10 feet taller than the code currently allows.

The change is being initiated by the county, based on an action by the Pasco County Commission to direct the planning department to bring forth the modification.

The county board adopted the restated land development code on Oct. 18, 2011, and since then has adopted 54 amendments to the code, according to agenda backup materials for the planning board’s April 24 meeting.

The county board, on July 6, 2021, directed the staff to prepare the modification needed to increase the building height in all residential districts.

Planning Commissioner Peter Hanzel raised a question about potential impacts for firefighters.

Zoning Administrator Denise Hernandez said she would confer with Fire Rescue officials, but noted that commercial buildings can exceed 45 feet.

No one spoke for or against the proposal during the meeting.

Planners recommended approval of the change.

Published May 04, 2022

Enjoying a day out, while raising money for hospice care

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Hundreds of people turned out to the Gulfside Hospice Charity Festival of Arts, recently held at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

Eleven-year-old Brennen Lay, center, of Port Richey, keeps his eye on music teacher Katherine Hintz, of Land O’ Lakes, as she and violinists from Hintz Academy of Music perform. Thirteen-year-old Sasanka Sentail, left, of Land O’ Lakes, follows along. (Fred Bellet)

The event, on April 23, raised more than $20,000 to support hospice patient care and bereavement programs at Gulfside Hospice, according to a news release from the organizers.

The festival opened with the presentation of colors by the Pasco Sheriff’s Mounted Posse and a performance of the national anthem by Miss Pasco County’s Outstanding Teen, Larkin Mainwaring.

Guests enjoyed hands-on art stations, purchased art and grabbed a bite to eat from the food trucks.

A talent showcase highlighted all kinds of performers, including dancers, musicians, singers, a comedy act, and more.

Miss Pasco County Anastasia Valimaki performed her signature speed painting talent for the crowd, and held a meet-and-greet with Mainwaring throughout the day.

“We are here to help hospice patients and their families receive hospice care and bereavement services. Gulfside Hospice does not turn any patient away because of an inability to pay, and that’s only possible because of the support we gather from the community,” Carla Armstrong, director of philanthropy, said in the release.

“It’s a day of fun and a day that celebrates the arts, because there’s nothing that celebrates life more than creativity and art,” Armstrong added.

For more information about upcoming events to support Gulfside Hospice, visit Gulfside.org, or contact Leesa Fryer, fundraising & event planning manager, at 727-845-5707 or .

Published May 04, 2022

Land O’ Lakes’ artist Terry Smith displays some of his paintings featuring nature scenes from the great outdoors.
‘Popcorn,’ a 10-year-old standard poodle and service dog checks out what’s on the menu, as the dog’s owner, Vivian Calabria, visits the vendor and exhibit tents.
Anshita Sahu, 12, who studies at Hintz Academy of Music, provided a soothing sound, during the academy’s performance at the Charity Festival of Arts. The Land O’ Lakes musician was accompanied by violinists.
Five-year-old Hayleigh Perkins, of Land O’ Lakes, holds a coloring book she received at the festival. She and her parents, Rich and Michelle Perkins, checked out the art projects, to vote for their favorite.
Six-year-old twins Blake and Mia Carreras select materials under one of the art project tents at the festival. They were accompanied by their parents, Yasir and Ami Carreras, of Land O’ Lakes.
Lucy Santanello votes for her favorite artwork at the Gulfside Hospice auction and art exhibit tent. Santanello and friend Millie Biggs drove to the event from New Port Richey.
Wherever Michelle Fisler went at the Charity Festival of Arts, onlookers did a double-take. After all, Rascal, a 4-year-old skunk from Florida Skunk Rescue, hitched a ride on her shoulder. Fisler said, as pets, skunks are comparable to cats.
Ileana Scopano, third from right, a volunteer member of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse, dances next to the horses as music plays over the public address system at the festival. The posse took part in the presentation of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance and the Star-Spangled Banner.
The GFWC Women’s Group performs its version of, ‘I Will Follow You,’ from the movie, ‘Sister Act.’ From left: Dee Knerr of Tampa; Kay Taylor, of New Port Richey; Pam Blumenthal, of Wesley Chapel; and, Elayne Bassinger, of San Antonio.
Vocalist Doug Karl opened the event with lively, foot-stompin’ music.

 

 

Grants support photography workshops for vets

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The Community Arts Impact Grant supports free photography workshops for veterans.

Breaking Barriers takes place July 8 through Aug. 12, 2022. It will have two formats: a course for beginners and one for advanced for photographers.

No experience is needed for beginners, but the advanced session requires previous photography experience or attendance at a prior Breaking Barriers workshop, according to a news release.

Both workshops are hosted online to increase accessibility.

The only camera that is required is a cellphone camera.

“So, the program was learning the techniques and approaches to taking photography into that same level of a professional photographer, with a cellphone,” Mikko Maki, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and past participants of Breaking Barriers, said in the release.

Registration is now open and will be available until July 1.

Veterans and their families are welcome to join in the workshops.

To register, or for questions or more information, email Amy Allison at .

Published May 04, 2022

NFL ‘rookie class’

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(Courtesy of AdventHealth West Florida Division)

AdventHealth announced the newest “GOATs” of the 2022 NFL draft, the AdventHealth Bucs Babies, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. This year, the true “GOATs” of cuteness and the tiniest Brady fans are ready to expand the depth of the Bucs Babies roster. All babies born at an AdventHealth hospital in West Florida are considered AdventHealth Bucs Babies and babies born the week of the NFL draft are official members of the “rookie class.”

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