The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

St. Petersburg’s Pier: great views, fun options

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St. Petersburg’s new pier on Tampa Bay just may be one of the best places to visit during this trying pandemic.

Besides the geometric Pier Point building, shaped like a futuristic spaceship, the 26-acre pier district offers soaring sculptures, vast grassy areas, waterfront beaches and trails, a splash pad for kids, local artisans selling their creations, and an array of restaurants. No wonder it cost $93 million and took three years to build.

The Pier Point building at the new St. Pete Pier looks like a futuristic spacecraft. (Karen Haymon Long)

Here, you can take yoga and pilates classes on the grass; and walk, bike, skateboard, paddleboard, and, yes, even fish on a fishing deck that’s part of the five-story Pier Point building.

If you park along Beach Drive, you can walk three-quarters of a mile to the pier’s end with water views on both sides. Turn around for a panoramic view of downtown St. Petersburg’s skyline.

Yachts and smaller boats bob in Tampa Bay to the south, and the iconic Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort and Golf Club sits majestically to the north, just as it has since 1926.

On the over-water walkway just before the Pier Point building, Tampa Bay Watch Discovery Center offers a touch tank, interactive displays, videos and exhibits on the bay’s ecosystems, marine wildlife and the group’s conservation efforts. The highlight is an 1,800-gallon estuary habitat filled with fish from local waters. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 4 to 12.

A children’s splash pad, quiet and lit up at night, is popular in the daytime, especially when it’s hot. (Courtesy of City of St. Petersburg)

Plan to spend the day if you can, especially if you like to walk. From the pier district you can walk north and south along the waterfront or on sidewalks that lead to a bayfront volleyball court, a palm garden, Williams Park, and to the Museum of Fine Arts, the St. Petersburg Museum of History and the Salvador Dali Museum. Downtown shops and restaurants are an easy walk west.

The district has on-street parking and two metered parking lots. Boaters can slide into boat slips and stroll to the pier.

A 10,000-square-foot Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, close to a parking lot, offers indoor and outdoor dining with views of the bay and downtown. Owned by Florida author Randy Wayne White and partners, it has an extensive Florida-themed menu featuring grouper and Cuban sandwiches, shrimp and grits and pork many ways. You can even buy White’s hot sauces and Doc Ford T-shirts, in honor of the main character in many of White’s popular novels. It gets very crowded, so reservations are recommended by calling 727-857-8118. See DocFords.com for the menu.

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, with the new pier stretching out beyond it, is a good place to eat grouper sandwiches with a water view. (Courtesy of City of St. Petersburg)

Nearby, Fresco’s Waterfront Bistro offers everything from crab avocado eggs Benedict to shrimp tacos. Spa Beach Bistro, near Spa Beach Park, sells pizzas, ice cream, cocktails and more.

The Pier Point building has several options: the casual Driftwood Cafe sells takeout snacks and ice cream. A fancier restaurant, Teak, is on the fourth floor and is open for lunch and dinner. It offers breathtaking views and a menu featuring everything from paella to short ribs. The roof-top Pier Teaki, is a modern take on a classic tiki bar. It has the best views of all and serves local draft beers, 30 varieties of rum, and bar snacks.

A tiki totem seat in Pier Teaki, a modern take on a classic tiki bar at the St. Pete Pier. (Karen Haymon Long)

The Pier Point building also has a few shops. Gator Jim’s Tackle sells fishing supplies, while Pier Gear & Gifts sells T-shirts, hats and other items touting the pier.

Outside, along the promenade leading to the pier’s end, The Marketplace features local vendors in kiosks under artistic solar shades selling St. Petersburg souvenirs, hats, locally made foods and gifts, jewelry, T-shirts, Caribbean sauces and other items. Here, kids – and adults, too – can get their faces painted.

Some people like the district’s sculptures most of all, especially the billowing, color-changing net flying high in the sky called “Bending Arc,” created by Tampa’s Janet Echelman. Another favorite is an airplane sculpture by Mark Aeling entitled “First Flight,” in honor of the world’s first commercial flight in 1914, when Tony Jannus flew the city’s mayor from St. Petersburg to Tampa.

“Myth (Red Pelican)” was inspired by the pier’s geometrical design and pelicans, which artist Nathan Mabry says symbolize St. Petersburg’s kindness, friendship and generosity. “Morning Stars,” a mosaic by Xenobia Bailey consisting of colorful, crocheted geometric configurations, is 23-feet wide and 7 ½-feet tall, while a bronze sculpture called “Olnetopia” depicts rocks and wild waters, representing “the dynamic power of life,” according to its creator Nick Ervinck.

That sculpture’s theme seems fitting for the pier district.

Everywhere you look – from couples toasting cocktails in Pier Teaki to kids romping through the splash pad – you see the joy of life.

‘Bending Arc,’ a billowing net sculpture that changes colors, is one of the highlights of St. Petersburg’s new Pier District. It was created by Tampa’s Janet Echelman, internationally known for her works. The Vinoy hotel looms in the background. (Karen Haymon Long)

St. Pete Pier
Where: 800 2nd Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg
Hours: Open 30 minutes before sunrise to 11 p.m. Restaurant hours vary.
Cost: Free admission to pier; parking fees vary
Info and restaurant details: StPetePier.org.

By Karen Haymon Long

Published November 17, 2021

Seeking tax assistance volunteers

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Two programs that provide tax assistance and tax counseling for the elderly are seeking volunteers to assist in the effort.

The IRS’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) programs offer free basic tax return preparation to qualified individuals.

The VITA program, which has operated for over 50 years, helps people who need assistance to prepare their own tax returns.

The TCE program offers free tax help, particularly for those who are 60 years of age and older, specializing in questions about pensions and retirement-related issues unique to seniors, according to a news release.

While the IRS manages the VITA and TCE programs, the VITA/TCE sites are operated by IRS partners and staffed by volunteers, who are certified by the IRS.

In Pasco County, the VITA Tax Program is under the umbrella of the United Way.

There currently are 100 volunteers, but more are needed.

Training is provided. To find out more, email lead volunteer Bill Humphrey, at  , or call him at 727-808-4483.

For additional information, visit UnitedWayPasco.org.

Published November 17, 2021

Hillsborough projects to be paid with federal funds

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Hillsborough County has allocated American Rescue Plan funding for a list of projects that address infrastructure, affordable housing, fire rescue and food insecurity needs, according to a county news release.

Here are some of the ways the federal funding will be spent, based on the Hillsborough County Commission’s Nov. 3 vote:

  • Infrastructure projects including septic-to-sewer conversions, to protect groundwater in parts of the county that were developed before the county had wastewater services, and stormwater drainage programs
  • Efforts to address social issues, such as food insecurity and homelessness, including the purchase of a 36-unit apartment building in the University Area to provide affordable housing for residents emerging from homelessness
  • A new Hillsborough County Fire Rescue station alerting system to replace outdated alerting and dispatching technology in the county’s 44 fire stations.

The county will continue to review and approve projects over the next three years, until all of the $285 million received in rescue plan funding is allocated, which must be accomplished by December 2024, the release says.

The county board also is scheduled to receive, at its Nov. 17 meeting, a proposed list of $35 million in road resurfacing projects to be funded through rescue plan dollars.

Published November 17, 2021

Bowling for fun — and for veterans

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Veterans participating in the afternoon session of the ‘Heroes In Our House BVL’ bowling benefit included from left: Will O’ Steen, of Zephyrhills, who served as emcee; Jackie Arnold, of Zephyrhills; Art Brasch, of Dade City; and Geoff Hopkins, of Tampa. (Fred Bellet)

They went out to roll some balls, to hope for strikes, and to enjoy the company of family and friends — all the while showing their support for veterans.

The “Heroes In Our House BVL” bowling benefit was held Nov. 7, at East Pasco Pin Chasers, at 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. BVL stands for Bowlers to Veterans Link, and it raises money to support veteran causes.

The event took place the weekend before Veterans Day, celebrated each Nov. 11 on the anniversary of the end of World War I. The national holiday honors all who have served in the military.

There were two sessions of the bowling benefit, where people competed for prizes and bragging rights.

Geoff Hopkins, of the Tampa James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, said BVL bowling benefits are a great way to raise money for veterans through bowling.

Hopkins’ efforts have provided funding for recreation therapy and creative arts therapy programs for veterans at the hospital.

Published November 17, 2021

There were two sessions of the ‘Heroes In Our House BVL’ bowling event. Those joining the morning session, from left: Will O’Steen, of Zephyrhills, event emcee; Ken Kenyon, of Dade City; Cliff Tucker, of Land O’ Lakes; Gene ‘Doc’ Stanek, of Zephyrhills; James ‘Tex’ Myrice, of Dade City; Paul Haney, of Zephyrhills; and Maurice Winpigler, of Tampa. Bowlers to Veterans Link (BVL) is a nonprofit that provides support for veteran programs.
Geoff Hopkins, of the James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, in Tampa, was delighted by the turnout at the ‘Heroes In Our House’ bowling benefit, at East Pasco Pin Chasers, 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills, on Nov. 7.
Steve Gartner, of Zephyrhills, prepares to take his turn in finishing up a frame at the ‘Heroes In Our House’ bowling benefit. He and his wife, Susie, were partners during the bowling benefit.
A silhouette of Jackie Arnold is created against the bright lane lights, as he pirouettes and delivers his bowling ball in the pocket of a strike. Arnold lives in Zephyrhills.
Pin Chasers in Zephyrhills recently hosted the ‘Heroes In Our House BVL’ fundraiser to benefit veterans.

 

 

 

 

 

Fan of the Week!

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The Knight family is our Fan of the Week! “We LOVE The Laker/Lutz News,” says the Knight family. From left: Bryson Knight, Jordyn Knight and Layla Knight read a recent edition of the paper. Want to be a fan, too? Send a photo of yourself holding our newspaper to .

Jammin’ at the skate park

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(Fred Bellet)

Seven-year-old Jalen Diaz, of Tampa, watches skaters as they demonstrate their skills during the Skate Jam at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The young competitor said he’s been skateboarding for two years. His father, disc jockey Dondy Telesford, of Tampa, provided music for the event. See full story and more photos below.

Avalon Applauds Brooke Lea

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Congratulations to Brooke Lea, a senior at Zephyrhills High School, for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

Lea has lived in Zephyrhills for her entire life and loves the close-knit community that she’s grown up in. Her mother, Missy, has been volunteering in the local community since she was 13 and instilled the same mindset into Brooke and her two sisters, Brittani and Bryann. For years now the three girls have been volunteering at the Pioneer Florida Museum and Village where they work the concession stands, set up games, and help out at a lot of other events put on by the museum.

“I think giving back and helping local nonprofits in an effort to grow our community, businesses, and children’s programs is important,” says Lea.

Brooke Lea

“Brooke always jumps in wherever she is needed…. She is an awesome team member, but even as a teenager she is a clear leader and a great example,” says Stephanie Black, executive director for the Pioneer Florida Museum.

“I am grateful for this young woman and all she does for our community.”

Right now, Lea works at Pet Supplies Plus, a pet supply retail store   in Zephyrhills that recently praised her efforts on social media:

“All year long we ask for donations to go to local shelters and today Brooke did an amazing job. She got over a 100 donations in the first 3 hours of her shift. Way to go Brooke and thank you to all the neighbors that said yes to her today.”

Other foundations she has volunteered for include The Thomas Promise Foundation, The Dade City Chamber of Commerce Car Show, A Salute for our Soldiers Backpack Drive, Little Everglades Ranch Mud Run, and much more.

When asked what the most rewarding part is about being an active community member, Lea says, “It’s fun being involved with so many different organizations and it is an even better feeling knowing you were able to do your part in giving back and helping others.”

Brooke also plays softball while she’s finishing up her senior year of high school.

“I love softball! Learning the game and competing is so much fun, especially when you love the people around you. Win or lose, I always do my best,” says Lea.

After she graduates, Lea plans on attending the University of Central Florida where she wants to work for child protective services or become a game warden.

Published November 10, 2021

Skateboarders show off skills at Land O’ Lakes competition

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Seven-year-old Jalen Diaz, of Tampa, watches skaters as they demonstrate their skills during the Skate Jam at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex. The young competitor said he’s been skateboarding for two years. His father, disc jockey Dondy Telesford, of Tampa, provided music for the event. (Fred Bellet)

Skaters took to their boards at a course at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex recently to test their skills against other enthusiasts.

They had three minutes to demonstrate what they could do and they were judged on the difficulty of their run, as well as variety, style and execution.

Fifteen skaters competed in four divisions, split up by ages 6 to 8; 9 to 12; 13 to 17; and 18 and older.

The Trick or Treat Skate Jam was presented by LANDO Skateboard and the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, at 3032 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes.

Skaters paid $25 to participate, which included a free T-shirt.

Entertainment was provided by DJ Dondy!

Skaters came from Tampa, New Port Richey, Land O’ Lakes and Dade City. There was even one skater there from Wildwood, New Jersey, He was visiting a friend who lives in the region.

Published November 10, 2021

Gage Warner, of New Port Richey, positions his skateboard at the top of the starting ramp, as he prepares to start his three-minute run on the skateboard course.
Organizer and judge Greg Mark, of Land O’ Lakes, and fellow judge Tony Grzanowski, of Tampa, work on the judging cards.
In the older division, Skate Jam winner Tyler Radford, center, is flanked by second-place winner Gage Warner, left, and Erik Thielbar, third place. Besides certificates, the winners received prizes from Dairy Queen and other local businesses.
Organizer Greg Mark, top/center, stands with the winners in the youth division, 7-year-old Jalen Diaz, of Tampa, bottom/left, who won second place and 8-year-old Jude Crerand, of Dade City, who won first place.

On his way to a winning position in the age 18 and older division, Gage Warner speeds down the starting ramp, as he races against the clock during his three minutes on the skateboard course.

Erik Thiebar, of Land O’ Lakes, finds himself shadow-dancing, as he makes is way to the top of the ramp.
Competitors watch as eventual winner 32-year-old Tyler Radford, of Tampa, prepares to finish the course. Erik Thiebar, center, of Land O’ Lakes, records Radford’s skateboarding excellence from the top of the ramp.
Mitch Chaput prepares to start his three-minute run on the skateboard ramps and rails during the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex’s first Trick or Treat Skate Jam. The event, which is planned to be held annually, featured 15 contestants, ranging from 6 to over 18, competing for prizes. Chaput, who lives in Wildwood, New Jersey, was visiting friend and fellow skateboarder Gage Warner, of New Port Richey, who also took part.
Competing in the age 6 through 8 division, 8-year-old Jude Crerand, of Dade City, gets set to take on the skateboard course.
Tyler Radford, 32, of Tampa, is on his way to winning the first-place award, as he glides across a tabletop and drops down on his skateboard to complete the run.

 

Showing off their cars, to help Big Brothers Big Sisters

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Skeleton mechanics work on Melinda Crosby’s 2020 California Special Mustang GT Premium. The mechanics were working their fingers to the bone for this Wild Stallions Mustang Club member. (Fred Bellet)

Some 150 custom Mustangs and other Ford models took part in the inaugural Bay Area Mustangs’ (BAM!) Mustang Madness, at Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel, at 28739 State Road 54.

Although billed as a Mustang Madness event, all models of Ford vehicles were welcome.

Besides the car show, there was a silent auction, costume contest, cash prizes, raffles and 50/50 chances. Trophies were awarded for best dressed cars, people’s choice, sponsor’s choice, charity’s choice and participation awards, as well.

The event benefited Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay.

Bay Area Mustangs is a club that promotes the restoration, preservation and enjoyment of the Ford Mustang in the Tampa Bay region.

The club gathers monthly on the first Thursday around 6 p.m., at Ford’s Garage, a restaurant at 25526 Sierra Center Blvd., in the Cypress Creek Town Center, off State Road 54/State Road 56.

For a complete schedule of the club’s events, visit BayAreaMustangs.com.

Published November 10, 2021

During the ladies’ Halloween costume contest, master of ceremony, Frank Morales, left, dressed as a quack doctor. He draws a response from those watching, as he kids around with Darlene Esposito, of Lutz, who said she was dressed as The Slayer.
Customized and haunted, Lou McCarty’s 2018 Mustang has all sorts of eerie decorations, as it sits on display at the Bay Area Mustangs’ Mustangs Madness event. His Mustang GT has a 5.0 engine with a 10-speed automatic and a high performance package. Tara Cunningham, of St. Petersburg, back/left, sat with her husband, Scott, obscured, and their 2007 Mustang.
Bay Area Mustangs’ Howie Taylor’s 2020 Mustang has a high-performance package in the 4-cylinder turbo engine. Taylor says it kicks out 400 hp. Although the car is orange all year-round, Taylor added the pumpkin face decals to his doors to suit the season.
Rodney Ford, of Plant City, looks in on the driver of his 2019 Mustang GT 5.0 liter engine. Ford, a member of the Wild Stallions Club, has had his car for three years. It was dressed up for the Bay Area Mustang Madness Car Show, at Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel.

You can help brighten the holidays for others

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Some of the volunteers for the 2020 Thanksgiving event, front row, from left: Richelle Green, Amy Vanness and Mark Giannone. Back row, from left: Joe Justice and Larry Giannone. (Courtesy of Lisa Kamps)

Metropolitan Ministries is opening its donation tent at Keystone Community Church, at 21010 State Road 54, in Lutz, beginning this weekend, to help others at the holidays.

The tent will be accepting nonperishable food, frozen turkeys, and gift cards, for Thanksgiving, on Nov. 12 through Nov. 14 and again on Nov. 19 through Nov. 23.

The tent will reopen for Christmas donations on Dec. 10 through Dec. 12 and from Dec. 17 through Dec. 23.

The hours for the collection dates are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., on weekdays, and noon to 3 p.m., on Sundays.

On Thanksgiving Day, which is Nov. 25 this year, a free take-out meal will be provided for those in need, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meals will be carry-out and must be picked up at the church.

The efforts are sponsored by KCC Second Serving, Metropolitan Ministries and the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes.

Published November 10, 2021