The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Bilirakis helps Pasco secure $500,000 safe schools grant

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has helped Pasco County Schools secure a $500,000 federal grant to help keep students and teachers safe.

The funding is part of the STOP School Violence Act, which Bilirakis supported and which became law last year.

Bilirakis advocated for Pasco to receive this grant after speaking with Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning, members of the Pasco County School Board, teachers and parents, according to a news release from the congressman’s office.

The funds will be used to enable Pasco Schools, law enforcement partners, and mental health providers to facilitate multidisciplinary threat assessments while developing behavioral threat assessment teams to intervene and mitigate potential risks, the release says.

Funding will build on current community engagement by supporting a dedicated school threat assessment coordinator and certified juvenile criminal intelligence analyst.

Pasco County Schools is the 10th largest, among the state’s 67 school districts.

In the release, Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said “we want to thank Congressman Bilirakis for his leadership in protecting our children in Pasco County.

“Funding for threat assessments is one of the best methods for prevention and to help a child in distress before they become a threat to others or themselves.

“We look forward to further partnering with Pasco County Schools and Superintendent Browning on this important initiative,” Nocco added.

Pasco County Schools is one of just eight school districts in the country to receive this competitive grant.

Bilirakis also is the author of the PROTECT KIDS Act, which would provide additional federal funding for School Resource Officers in the nation’s largest school districts, such as Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

Published October 30, 2019

It’s fall — that perfect time to enjoy squash

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Pumpkins seems to get all of the attention each Autumn.

Pumpkin spice lattes. Pumpkin bread. Pumpkin pies. Jack-o’-lanterns.

But, remember, pumpkins are just one kind of winter squash.

(Courtesy of Shari Bresin)

You can also find many other varieties of winter squash in your garden or at your grocery store.

There’s butternut squash, acorn squash, delicata, spaghetti squash and others.

So, what are the characteristics of a summer squash versus a winter squash, besides the obvious fact that they are harvested at different times of the year?

As the website Harvest to Table explains, the winter squash has a hard outer shell and firm flesh — prolonging its storage life, so it can last throughout the winter.

Winter squash is best enjoyed roasted, stewed or baked.

Meanwhile, the summer squash, such as the well-known zucchini and yellow squash, has a soft skin and moist flesh and can be eaten raw, steamed or sautéed. They won’t hold up as long and should be eaten within a few days.

While the hard skin of the winter squash allows it to endure the cold, it makes it hard to cut.

So, here’s a tip: Microwave the squash first, to make it easier to slice in half, or peel.

First, wash the squash’s skin and dry it. Then, use a knife to carefully make a few slits down the middle of the squash, where you plan to cut it in half. Then, use a fork to poke some holes throughout to allow steam to escape.

Then microwave for about 5 minutes.

You’ll still need to put a little muscle into it, but it will help.

Winter squash is more than just a comfort food.

It is high in carotenoids, protein, vitamin C, vitamin B6, fiber, and the minerals magnesium and potassium, so enjoy the different types all throughout the season to reap the health benefits.

With the different types of winter squash and the different ways to cook it, you should have plenty of variety to enjoy throughout the season.

As a bonus, enjoy the seeds!

I admit, I didn’t think much of squash seeds.

When carving a pumpkin for Halloween, I always saved the seeds and then roasted them, but for some reason, I always discarded squash seeds up until recently, when I realized I was throwing away a perfectly good protein-filled snack.

They are smaller than pumpkin seeds and don’t need as long to roast (about 15-20 minutes baked at 275°, or until they start to “pop”).

And, get creative with them:

In a bowl, coat the seeds with a tablespoon of olive oil and, instead of salt, try ½ teaspoon of spices, such as red pepper flakes, cinnamon, or garlic powder.

By Shari Bresin

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County.

Here is a butternut squash soup recipe I’ve made that came from cooksmarts.com (https://www.cooksmarts.com/articles/butternut-squash-with-white-bean-soup/):

Butternut Squash with White Bean Soup
Serves: 6 (as a side), 3 (as a main)

Ingredients

  • 1 butternut squash, chopped
  • 1 medium to large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 to 3 thyme sprigs, leaves removed
  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 to 3 sage leaves
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can white beans, drained
  • 1 quart broth (veggie or chicken) or water
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
  • Maple syrup, to taste (optional)
  • Creme fraiche or sour cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  • Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then add the oil and then garlic.
  • Add the chopped onion, sage, and thyme leaves.
  • Sauté for about 3 minutes, tossing with a heat-safe spatula or wooden spoon a few times.
  • Add the butternut squash and drained beans, and pour enough stock /water to cover all the ingredients.
  • Cover pot with its lid and bring to a boil.
  • Once the soup boils, keep the lid on and lower heat to a simmer, and cook for another 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Remove the pot from the stove and let the soup cool down, uncovered, for about 10 minutes.
  • Then place the immersion blender in the soup, tilt at about a 10 degree angle, and puree at a medium setting.
  • Season to taste with nutmeg and maple syrup for a bit of sweetness.
  • Ladle into bowls and swirl in a spoonful of creme fraiche.

Note: I also added kale (added last, not pureed) to give it more color.

Published October 30, 2019

Hillsborough holds neighborhoods conference

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Registration has begun for Hillsborough County’s 16th annual Neighborhoods Conference.

The free event is set for Nov. 2 from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Sheraton Tampa East Hotel, 10221 Princess Palm Ave., in Sabal Park.

This year’s theme is “Reimagining Neighborhoods.”

Neighborhood and community leaders are invited to come to the conference to build on their leadership skills, hear new ways to make where they live safer, and learn how to navigate government processes and regulations.

Besides having a chance to learn, the event includes access to all exhibits, giveaways, the Neighborhood Recognition Awards luncheon, and conference workshops.

The workshop topics are:

  • Leadership development and techniques
  • Code enforcement: Questions and answers
  • NextDoor strategies, tips and tricks
  • How to write award-winning grant applications
  • Solutions to common challenges faced by neighborhood associations
  • Building resiliency within communities to help with disaster recovery
  • What neighborhoods can expect during the 2020 U.S. Census

For more information, or to register, call (813) 272-5860, or go to HCFLGov.net/Neighborhoods and click on 16th annual Neighborhoods Conference link.

Published October 23, 2019

Bilirakis helps Pasco secure $500,000 safe schools grant

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has helped Pasco County Schools secure a $500,000 federal grant to help keep students and teachers safe.

The funding is part of the STOP School Violence Act, which Bilirakis supported and which became law last year.

Bilirakis advocated for Pasco to receive this grant after speaking with Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, Pasco Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning, members of the Pasco County School Board, teachers and parents, according to a news release from the congressman’s office.

The funds will be used to enable Pasco Schools, law enforcement partners, and mental health providers to facilitate multidisciplinary threat assessments while developing behavioral threat assessment teams to intervene and mitigate potential risks, the release says.

Funding will build on current community engagement by supporting a dedicated school threat assessment coordinator and certified juvenile criminal intelligence analyst.

Pasco School Schools is the 10th largest, among the state’s 67 school districts.

In the release, Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco said “we want to thank Congressman Bilirakis for his leadership in protecting our children in Pasco County.

“Funding for threat assessments is one of the best methods for prevention and to help a child in distress before they become a threat to others or themselves.

“We look forward to further partnering with Pasco County Schools and Superintendent Browning on this important initiative,” Nocco added.

Pasco County is one of just eight school districts in the country to receive this competitive grant.

Bilirakis also is the author of the PROTECT KIDS Act, which would provide additional federal funding for School Resource Officers in the nation’s largest school districts, such as Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

Published October 23, 2019

Baseball farm plans grand opening celebration

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Coach Ryan Pryor is hosting a grand opening celebration of the Pryor Baseball Farm — an event where friends, family, leagues and members of the media can visit the outdoor training farm.

The baseball school is  intended to be a place where young athletes can bridge the skill gap to pursue their dreams of reaching high levels within baseball and softball.

The grand opening is set for Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., according to a news release about the celebration.

Pryor is the former varsity assistant coach at Wiregrass Ranch High School and a varsity assistant at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School. Both programs enjoyed considerable success during his work there. A number of Pryor’s former players are now playing on Major League teams.

The baseball school is situated on a 5-acre-plus site, off Old Pasco Road and Hadlock Drive, at 8931 Elkmont Lane in Wesley Chapel.

The facility, called the “Farm” for short, includes:

  • Hitting stables with six batting cages and machines
  • Pitching pens with five bullpens
  • The Julie Parker drill field
  • Golf-style batting Tee ranges (over pond)
  • Full video evaluations
  • Outfield range
  • Long-toss throwing lanes, up to 300 feet
  • Practice drill fields

For more information about the event, or the facility, call Coach Ryan Pryor at (813) 992-1030, or email .

Published October 16, 2019

Cirque du Soleil Is Back on Ice

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Fusing World-Class Ice-Skating with Breathtaking Acrobatics

Cirque du Soleil on Ice is returning to Tampa with a new creation that will spin its audience into the vibrant world of Cirque du Soleil AXEL, with seven performances only, at Amalie Arena, opening Oct. 31.

This unique show highlights world-class acrobatic skating performances set in fantastical universes, combined with full-spectrum visual effects and awesome live music, seamlessly integrating popular songs with new original scores.

“The success of our first creation on ice has reinforced our ambition to further explore the extensive creative possibilities of a frozen playground,” says Daniel Fortin, vice president Creation. “With Cirque du Soleil AXEL, we are offering a truly electrifying experience to all audiences, pushing the boundaries of creativity with the unique approach that has forged the reputation of Cirque du Soleil.”

The performance tells the story of Axel, a young man, and his dynamic group of friends, whose passion for live music and graphic arts come to life in an exhilarating adventure. Axel’s journey reminds the audience that everyone’s dreams are within reach, as they discover this young artist as he falls for the fascinating Lei in a high-speed chase for love and self-realization.

The electrifying experience of Cirque du Soleil AXEL includes stunning performances blending ice-skating, acrobatics and live music that leaves its audiences astounded!

About Cirque du Soleil
Cirque du Soleil AXEL is the 48th original production of Cirque du Soleil, part of Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, and its second on-ice experience.

Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is a world leader in live entertainment. On top of producing world-renowned circus arts shows, the Canadian organization brings its creative approach to a large variety of entertainment forms, such as multimedia productions, immersive experiences, theme parks and special events.

It currently has 4,500 employees from nearly 70 countries. Going beyond its various creations, Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group aims to make a positive impact on people, communities and the planet with its most important tools: creativity and art. For more information about Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group, please visit CDSentertainmentgroup.com.

Performances
Oct. 31 to Nov. 3
Thurs., Oct. 31 at 7:30 p.m.
Fri., Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Sat., Nov. 2 at 11:30 a.m., 3:30 p.m., and 7:30 p.m.
Sun., Nov. 3 at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Tickets
Amalie Arena Ticket Office
401 Channelside Drive, Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 301-2500
Mon. to Fri., 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sat. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Online at CirqueDuSoleil.com/AXEL

Information
CirqueDuSoleil.com/AXEL
Follow #AXELCirque and #CirqueduSoleil
Social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Partners
Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group would like to thank Hennessy Black, Champagne Nicolas Feuillatte, Realtor.com and Villa Maria, our Official Partners of Cirque du Soleil AXEL.

 

Volunteer sought for Pasco Planning Commission

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Pasco County is seeking a volunteer to serve on the Pasco County Planning Commission.

Ideal candidates will represent diverse knowledge and expertise in the areas of engineering, planning, real estate, surveying, property management, architecture, construction and/or other related fields, according to a county news release.

The deadline for application is Oct. 11.

Planning Commission members review and make recommendations to the Pasco County Commission on proposed amendments to the county’s comprehensive plan, proposed changes to county zoning, requests for conditional use permits and other development applications.

The Planning Commission also conducts hearings and makes final determinations on all variances, alternative standards, and certain appeals and special exception applications.

To apply online, go to bit.ly/2G3IqUH.

The County Commission will be filling one vacancy on the Planning Commission, created by the resignation of Kevin Ryman, former vice chairman of that board.

The Planning Commission generally meets twice a month, on Thursday afternoons at 1:30 p.m. The meetings alternate between the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City and the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey.

For more information about Pasco Planning and Development, visit bit.ly/2hMXfkD

Published October 2, 2019

Keeping your lawnmower and your lawn, in tip-top shape

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Fall and winter months generally mean less mowing is needed, so this is a great time to check and service your lawnmower.

For a longer mower deck life, clean the dirt and grass out from under your mower deck.
(Courtesy of Camila Guillen, UF/IFAS)

Our lawnmowers worked hard this summer — clipping grass between frequent rains.

Getting my lawnmower serviced is one thing on my fall to-do list.

And, it may be on your to-do list, too.

So, I talked with Bob Latimer, a master gardener volunteer, for some advice on how to keep a lawnmower in top shape.

He offers the following suggestions:

  • Maintain your mower according to the owner’s manual. (Check the manual that came with the mower, or look for a manual for that model online).
  • Be sure to buy the correct type of mower for your type of grass. For example, UF/IFAS recommends a reel mower for fine-textured Bermudagrass kept at less than 1-inch high.
  • Check the owner’s manual for the proper setting of the mower deck. Standard St. Augustinegrass cultivars and bahiagrass may need a higher mower deck to cut the thick blades.
  • Keep in mind that gas-powered, self-propelled mowers may be better for large lawns. Battery and electric mowers may be used for smaller lawns.
  • Check the engine oil before you start the mower and refill the engine oil as needed. Non-ethanol gas may be better for the lawnmower and the carburetor.
  • Only buy the amount of gas you need because storing gas in the gas tank may lead to poor running problems or non-starting issues.
  • Check the air filter, and clean or replace it as needed.
  • Inspect the gas tank for dirt, and clean as needed. Be aware that if your lawnmower doesn’t run well, it may be from dirt getting into the gas tank or carburetor.
  • Be sure to clean any dirt from around the gas tank before removing the gas cap. This helps prevents dirt from falling into the gas tank and getting into the carburetor.
  • For self-propelled mowers, locate a qualified service technician to lubricate the axle point that transfers power from the motor to the wheels.
  • Replace the spark plug per the owner’s manual.
  • After mowing, protect the life of your mower deck by washing the dirt and grass out from under it.

Now that your lawnmower is in tip-top shape, here are some tips to help you maintain your lawn.

Remember, mowing your yard at the right height is one of the easiest ways to keep your lawn healthy.

Standard cultivars of St. Augustinegrass, such as ‘Floratam’ and ‘Palmetto,’ should be mowed at 3.5 inches to 4 inches. Dwarf St. Augustinegrass cultivars, such as ‘Delmar’ and ‘Seville,’ should be mowed at 2 inches to 2.5 inches.

Bahiagrass prefers a mowing height of 3 inches to 4 inches, medium- to coarse-textured zoysiagrasses should be mowed at 2 inches to 2.5 inches, and fine-textured zoysiagrass may be maintained at heights below 1 inch. Bermudagrass grows best when kept at 0.5 inch to 1.5 inches.

Additional advice on lawn care can be found in the following reference, which was used for this column: Trenholm, L.E., J.B. Unruh, and J.L. Cisar. (2018). Mowing Your Florida Lawn. IFAS Publication Number ENH10. Gainesville: University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

For more information, email , or call (813) 744-5519, ext. 54145.

By Nicole Pinson

Nicole Pinson is the Urban Horticulture Agent in Hillsborough County. Bob Latimer, UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County Master Gardener Volunteer, contributed to this column.

Published October 2, 2019

Pulte and Arthur Rutenberg New Builders In Bexley

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Pulte Homes is now building single-family homes in Bexley, including its popular Driftwood floorplan with its oversized kitchen island.

Building a new home is exciting — from selecting a lot, to choosing a floor plan, and waiting expectantly as your builder constructs your house, where you will create many years of memories.

Bexley by Newland, the top-selling master-planned community in Tampa Bay according to the RCLCO mid-year 2019 report, is adding more home options. It is introducing two new builders, Pulte Homes and Arthur Rutenberg/Custom Craft Homes, which will offer new homebuyers ample ways to turn their house into a dream home.

Homebuilder Arthur Rutenberg recently opened its Avalon model home at Bexley. Prospective homebuyers can choose from 19 different floor plans that were created just for the community. All feature expansive kitchens with a walk-in pantry and large, open first-floor great rooms that flow easily into an outdoor lanai, for the very best in indoor/outdoor living.

“Being in Bexley was just the natural thing to do,” said Ernie Lashlee, building company president for Arthur Rutenberg Homes/Custom Craft Homes. “We started building custom homes in Newland’s FishHawk Ranch community more than a decade ago. Bexley has superior amenities for its residents. But, what has impressed us are the residents themselves. They love this community. Neighbors know their neighbors and there’s a real sense of connection. We’re pleased to be a part of that.”

As one of the nation’s largest homebuilders, Pulte Homes builds consumer-inspired homes that provide homebuyers the best quality of life. At Bexley, Pulte will offer three flexible home designs that allow for personalization with upgraded designer options and superior construction quality. Pulte’s homes also feature an industry-leading, 10-year protection plan warranty.

Conveniently located close to Bexley Elementary School, prospective Pulte homebuyers can select from three- to five-bedroom homes with up to three bathrooms, and two-car garages.

Pulte is no stranger to Bexley. The company opened its Del Webb at Bexley 55+ active adult neighborhood last year.

“We have been so excited with the success of Del Webb Bexley, and are thrilled to expand our presence in the community and introduce our Life Tested Pulte designs,” said Sean Strickler, Pulte’s division president for West Florida. “We’ve had several of our active adult homeowners already inquire about their family members building with Pulte in Bexley, and look forward to introducing that opportunity later this year.”

Arthur Rutenberg’s new Avalon model home recently opened in Bexley.

“Bexley is truly a unique community,” added Pam Parisi, vice president, marketing for Newland. “That’s one of the reasons we’re able to attract such outstanding homebuilder partners. Arthur Rutenberg and Pulte Homes will be great additions to our Bexley family.”

Arthur Rutenberg and Pulte Homes join an established lineup of builders, including Cardel Homes, David Weekley Homes, Homes by WestBay, and Lennar. Home designs include single-family and luxury homes priced from the mid-$200s to over $800,000. Bexley’s 1,825-acre community offers a wide range of activities and amenities just minutes from your doorstep, including resort-style pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, miles of dual-surface trails and a BMX pump track, plus the Twisted Sprocket Café and Suncoast Trailside Bicycles, which are both open to the public.

Models are open daily. For more information, visit BexleyFlorida.com, or call (813) 425-7555.

Published 9/25/19

Don’t Miss Asturia’s Fall Festival and Model Home Tour

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Asturia’s Fall Festival is always fun for kids of all ages.

Asturia, a master-planned community in Odessa along the State Road 54 corridor, is celebrating its third Fall Festival on Saturday, Oct. 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

New residents, future residents and families from neighboring communities are all invited to this free event. Fun activities for children and adults include corn hole, bounce houses, face painting, carnival games and a balloon artist. Live music will be performed by Ace Wynn and Dustin Bradley, and food trucks will be serving meals, snacks and sweets.

This year’s Fall Festival supports Elizabeth’s Animal Rescue & Sanctuary, an Odessa nonprofit that prides itself on providing foster care for animals that are happy and well taken care of until they find their forever home. A donation box will be on site for guests to support E.A.R.S. — the group especially needs building materials, canned dog food and cleaning supplies. For a more complete donation wish list, go to earsrescue.org/donate.

To exhibit at the Fall Festival, or donate something for a silent auction, contact Carla Luigs at (904) 599-9015 or .

When Fall Festival guests are done playing and eating, they are invited to tour Asturia’s decorated model homes.

The Mendocino model by David Weekley Homes is open for tour during Asturia’s Fall Festival.

Beautiful Models

David Weekley Homes, ICI Homes and Park Square Homes are Asturia’s exclusive builders. Model homes are open daily, with on-site agents to assist homebuyers.

The community’s newest model is the Mendocino by David Weekley Homes. The beautifully furnished Mendocino is 2,845 square feet, and features four bedrooms, an open study, three full baths, one half-bath and a two-car garage. Designer touches include an extended lanai, oversized kitchen island, an owner’s retreat with tray ceiling and wood beam accents, a spa-like bath and oversized walk-in closet.

Priced from the $340s, the Mendocino is included in David Weekley Homes’ Asturia’s Lake Series, with homes that range in size from 2,200 to 3,200 square feet that are built on 55-foot homesites.

Other single-family home models are available for tour by ICI Homes, and Ryan Homes has models of its townhome community.

In late June, ICI Homes opened its new Costa Mesa model, with its huge kitchen and extra-large island, and closet-size, walk-in pantry that is cleverly hidden behind cabinetry. This one-story home showcases 2,565 square feet of living area, with four bedrooms, three baths and a three-car garage.

ICI Homes also has a second model, the Serena, which is now for sale, and can include the model’s professionally decorated, high-end furnishings for families wanting a turn-key home ready now.

Ryan Homes offers two floor plans in Asturia’s only townhome community. These three-bedroom townhomes range from 1,580 to 1,770 square feet, all with two-car, rear-entry, detached garages. The homes feature private outdoor courtyards with paver patios and privacy fencing.

Park Square Homes is Asturia’s newest builder, and will soon be building models for its affordable floor plans. Park Square Homes brings over 35 years of experience building quality homes in Central Florida, and expanded into the Tampa Bay market in 2007. Asturia is the builder’s first entry into Pasco County.

About Asturia

Asturia offers residents a kid-friendly, family oriented lifestyle surrounded by miles of multi-use trails, interspersed with dog parks and pocket parks. The community’s distinctive, 5,800-square-foot Amenity Center and Clubhouse includes a fully equipped fitness center, covered outdoor living rooms, a luxurious resort-style swimming pool and expansive lawn areas for recreation.

Currently in its third phase, when Asturia’s development is complete, it will likely have less than 550 single-family homes.

“What makes Asturia stand out from other new home developments is our smaller size,” said Lane Gardner, senior managing director for Hines, the developer behind Asturia. “Other communities in the area are looking at 3,000 to over 5,000 homes, and many years of construction. Our families prefer the intimate neighborhood experience that comes with Asturia’s modest community size.”

Asturia’s central location is just five minutes from the Suncoast Parkway, and also provides close proximity to U.S. 41, U.S. 19 and I-75.  Its master plan incorporates retail, office, multifamily and a variety of single-family residential offerings.

More information can be obtained by visiting Asturia’s model homes, registering at the community’s website, AsturiaFlorida.com, or by calling (813) 227-4148.

Published 9/25/19