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Volkswagen enthusiasts turn out in droves

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The weather was perfect for this gathering of Volkswagen lovers, and there was plenty to see and do, at the 32nd annual Bug Jam, at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, in Dade City.

There was food and entertainment, as well as a VW car show and plenty of parts — and stories — to swap.

Rafael Correa, of Jacksonville, relaxes while waiting for judging of his 1966 Micro bus at the Florida Bug Jam. (Randy Underhill)

 

 

 

Carlos Arias, of Miami, poses with his 1966 Rat Rod (Elbicho). He’s been taking part in the Florida Bug Jam for three years. He doesn’t just show his car at car shows, he drives it every day.
This 1965 replica of Herbie the Love Bug was shown at the Florida Bug Jam. It is owned by Stephen Love, of Clermont.
This is a closer look at the front of one of Volkswagens on display at the Florida Bug Jam.

Local event overrun with ‘Bugs’

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The 32nd annual Florida Bug Jam lived up to its name, attracting Volkswagen enthusiasts eager to show off their Bugs, to swap parts and to enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded people.

This beautiful 1962 Volkswagen Bug — complete with matching luggage — belongs to Jose m.Reyes Nieve. It was among the pristine, interesting and unusual VWs on display at the 32nd annual Florida Bug Jam, held Nov. 7 and Nov. 8, at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City. (Randy Underhill)

The partly sunny, breezy weekend made the weather ideal for huge crowds on both days of the event.

The Jam is a magnet for people across the country to converge on the Pasco County Fairgrounds, in Dade City, to show off their vintage Volkswagen Bugs and VW vans of yesteryear.

Besides the classic Bugs and vans, there were VW dune buggies, Baja Bugs, and the “Thing” on display at the car show on Nov. 8.

Randy Yoho, of Kry Inc., was the show’s promoter.

On Nov. 7, the first day of the two-day event, there was a poker run, a parade to downtown Dade City, an off-road course, a pre-jam party and a concert.

The next day’s events included a car show and swap meet.

Campsites were available, and event-goers could grab a bite to eat and do some shopping, too.

By Randy Underhill

Published November 11, 2020

Alice Encio, of Tampa, adjusts her props that are part of her Alice in Wonderland theme in her 1967 Volkswagen at the Florida Bug Jam car show on Nov. 8, at the Pasco County Fairgrounds, at 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City.
Owner Jack Cook, of Brooksville, proudly sits near his 1972 Ford Grabber blue-colored VW Karmann Ghia at the 32nd annual Florida Bug Jam, on Nov. 7, inside the Pasco County Fairgrounds. It took Cook a year to build the car, which placed third for two years in a row in the competition.
Dave MacDougall, of Fort Lauderdale, sits near his sage green 1976 Volkswagen van, with its matching trailer. He and his son, who did not make it to the Bug Jam, have traveled to all 30 Major League Baseball stadiums in four seasons starting in 2015.
Fifteen-year-old Conner Sorenson, left, of Stuart, stands with his dad, Justin Sorenson, in front of the family’s 1967 Volkswagen bug on Nov. 7 at the Bug Jam.
The 32nd annual Bug Jam enjoyed good weather and attracted a big crowd of Volkswagen enthusiasts during the two-day event at the Pasco County Fairgrounds.

Pasco school choice expos going virtual

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Pasco County Schools is showcasing the district’s choice programs in two virtual events this year.

The goal is the same as it has been in years past — to inform families about the upcoming school choice application window and to highlight the innovative program options.

The Nov. 16 Virtual Pasco Pathways Expo, presented at 5 p.m., will be the east side program.

The Nov. 19 Virtual Pathways Expo, presented at 5 p.m., will be the west side program.

The events will feature informational sessions that cover the general application process.

In addition, many of Pasco County’s schools will showcase unique educational options like STEM and STEAM magnets, the Cambridge International Education Programme, International Baccalaureate, Career Pathways, and more.

Those in attendance will have the chance to learn about Wendell Krinn Technical High School, Pasco eSchool, and the soon-to-be open Starkey Ranch K-8.

The school choice application window will run from Jan. 7 to Jan. 21, for all schools and grade levels.

For information and to register to attend a virtual expo, visit Pasco.k12.fl.us/expo.

Published November 11, 2020

Pasco’s branding effort wins big award

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Experience Florida’s Sports Coast — Pasco County’s brand for its tourism efforts — has received Sports ETA’s 2019 “Destination Branding & Marketing Campaign of the Year” for places with a population exceeding 500,000.

The award goes to the destination member “with the most outstanding comprehensive marketing campaign for its organization during the 2019 calendar year,” according to a news release from Sports ETA.

The effort can include “a variety of types of marketing: print ads, newsletters, email blasts, digital marketing, press releases, media coverage or any other promotional program. The campaign should promote the sports destination.”

To update its brand and increase awareness of itself as a destination, Pasco County rebranded itself as Experience Florida’s Sports Coast.

“The new name and campaign showcase not only sport tourism activities, but consumer experiences in the area. The campaign included a new innovative website, which gives viewers a look at the state-of-the-art facilities, winning attractions and experiences that can be enjoyed in Pasco County,” the release says.

Adam Thomas, tourism director at Experience Florida’s Sports Coast, reacted to the award this way: “We are extremely honored and grateful to even be included in the conversation for a branding and marketing award from Sports ETA.

“The Florida’s Sports Coast team has been working hard on promoting the destination and really creating that brand awareness in the marketplace for our visitors,” he said.

The 28th annual Sports ETA Symposium was cancelled earlier this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2019 award winners also will be recognized at next year’s Symposium from April 26 through April 29 in Birmingham, Alabama.

Published November 11, 2020

Honoring One Of The Finest Women I Have Known

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I write this in love and respect for one of the finest women I have ever known. We recently lost to breast cancer Paula Girven, a dear, sweet friend and trainer at our Land O’ Lakes studio. She was an amazing woman of God, trainer, friend, mother, sister and Olympian.

Samantha Taylor, left, and Paula Girven

I was blessed to start our friendship five years ago when she joined our fitness studio as a master personal trainer. I was so impressed with Paula as an athlete, as she shared her medals from numerous athletic achievements, including as an Olympic high-jumper on the 1976 and 1980 USA teams.

As our relationship grew, I became even more astounded by Paula as a person, for she was an inspirational example of how to care for others.

She loved people and attended every event, seminar and party we held as a fitness family. Paula was fluent in sign language, and every Christmas while I sang “Silent Night” on our Facebook live video, she would sign the words.

Paula truly cared about helping women and inspiring them to do their best. She led by example by being in absolutely amazing physical condition in her 60s.

All who knew Paula are deeply saddened to no longer have her here in physical form. But, one thing we know is that Paula loved Jesus, and that God must have amazing plans for her in Heaven, for her not be here anymore. She will be SO missed, but forever in our hearts.

To honor Paula’s legacy, we are hosting a private Celebration of Life this Saturday, Nov. 14 at 2 p.m., at our Land O’ Lakes studio. Because of space limitations, an RSVP is required at SamanthaTaylorFitness.com/events. There is also a link on that page for those who want to donate to help Paula’s family with expenses.

Paula’s legacy will forever carry on in our fitness family. We are committed to sharing the attributes that she so amazingly lived.

One of the attributes I loved best about Paula is that when you talked to her, she made you feel like you were the most important person in the room. So in her memory, remember this the next time you speak with someone. Paula believed that each person matters, and by listening and showing kindness, you never know who you may encourage!

Paula passed away peacefully in Asheville, North Carolina on Oct. 17 at age 62. Born in Virginia, she was devoted to God, a loving mother and grandmother, loyal sister, and friend to many.

In 1976, Paula was the first high school girl in Virginia to jump 6 feet, a record that still stands today. She was one of the first African-American woman athletes to receive a full scholarship to the University of Maryland, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in 1981, and in 1999, was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. When the Olympic games came to Atlanta in 1996, Paula was honored to be selected as an Olympic torch runner.

She is survived by two daughters, two sisters and five grandchildren. She has left a legacy in her family, her athletic achievements, and here locally in our communities with the many women’s lives she touched. Samantha Taylor Fitness is committed to carrying on Paula’s legacy.

By Samantha Taylor

Published November 11, 2020

Donations being sought for law officer memorial

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Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s five offices are accepting donations during the month of November to help build the Pasco Fallen Law Enforcement Officers Memorial.

This rendering depicts what the permanent memorial for fallen law enforcement officers is expected to look like. (File)

The memorial is planned to be located on the grounds of the Historic Pasco County Courthouse in Dade City, and will honor law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty, according to a news release from Fasano’s office.

Pasco County is the only one of Florida’s 67 counties without a permanent law enforcement memorial, so efforts led by Attorney Craig LaPorte and other volunteers have been ongoing to raise enough money to build one. Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley also has been involved in the fundraising efforts.

An annual memorial service is held to honor the officers who have been lost, but the memorial will provide a place to visit year-round.

Cash donations can be made at any of the five tax collector locations in Pasco County. They also can be included in registration renewals mailed to the tax collector during the month of November, the release says.

For more information about the charitable giving program at the Pasco Tax Collector’s office, contact Assistant Tax Collector Greg Giordano at (727) 847-8179, or visit PascoTaxes.com.

For more information about the Fallen Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, call Craig LaPorte at (727) 863-1553.

Donations also may be mailed to the tax collector’s office at the following address: Tax Collector Mike Fasano, P.O. Box 276, Dade City, FL 33526.  Please note on the check’s memo line “Law Enforcement Memorial.”

Published November 04, 2020

Tourist Development Council has board opening

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Pasco County’s Tourist Development Council (TDC) has an opening on its volunteer board for a representative or operator of a hotel, motel, RV park, or other tourist accommodation, according to a county news release.

Experience Florida’s Sports Coast, which is Pasco’s Destination Management Organization, is recruiting volunteers to apply to serve on the board.

Applications are being accepted online through Nov. 30, at bit.ly/TDCApp2020.

The TDC is an advisory council to the Pasco County Commission.

It is made up of elected officials and tourism industry professionals who provide recommendations to the staff of Experience Florida’s Sports Coast on promotional/partnership proposals, marketing opportunities and oversight of tourism tax expenditures – also known as the “Bed Tax.”

Position Details:

  • Must be an owner or operator of a motel, hotel, RV park, or other tourist accommodation in the county subject to the tourist development tax
  • TDC members serve four-year terms; appointments are staggered.
  • The position is voluntary; there is no financial compensation.
  • The TDC typically meets monthly, alternating between New Port Richey and Dade City.
  • Applicants must live in Pasco County, and must be registered to vote.

To find out more, visit bit.ly/PascoTDC.

For additional information, email Kolby Kucyk Gayson at .

Published November 04, 2020

Experience Is Essential In This Ever-Changing Real Estate Market

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The COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with the upcoming Presidential election, has created an environment where sellers are holding off on listing their homes due to the uncertainty of the nation.

Because of this, this year’s real estate inventory is at an all-time low with only a 1-month supply of homes. To put it in perspective, a normal market is typically between a 4-month to a 6-month supply of homes.

A low inventory market makes it more difficult for buyers because they are now competing with a huge cluster of offers as soon as a house becomes listed for sale. Buyers have to act quickly, often offering well above the listing price.

Experience also is essential when selling a home in this market. Sellers need to evaluate all terms of the contract to determine which offer truly is the best for them. Price is an important component; however, the highest offer is not always the best. Having an experienced agent review the terms of every offer, and discuss the benefits and risks of each one is essential in positioning the seller for the best possible outcome.

“With over 39 years of experience in the local market, we have the knowledge to navigate these hurdles and make our clients successful in this challenging environment,” says Holly Molnar Ruhlig, owner of Advantage Real Estate Services.

Advantage Real Estate Services is a full-service real estate company representing buyers and sellers of residential and commercial property primarily in Pasco, Hillsborough and Hernando counties. Agents at Advantage Real Estate Services understand local market trends, area home values, and critical information about area schools, roads and growth that impacts decisions behind buying or selling a home.

Holly Ruhlig

“We have a diversified team of agents, many having over 25 years of local real estate experience,” said Holly. “Our agents are experienced professionals who pride themselves on the highest level of customer service.”

Advantage Real Estate Services, located in a small neighborhood plaza on Bell Lake Road and Lake Padgett Drive in Land O’ Lakes, is where Holly’s parents, Lou and Sharon Molnar, started their real estate company, which they founded in 1981.

Fast-forward to 2020, and Holly has taken the strong work ethic she grew up with to rebrand the company.

“Not many businesses can say they’ve been in the same location for 39 years,” said Holly.

Holly’s mother, Sharon Molnar Johnson, still works alongside Holly, as well as Holly’s sister, Stephanie Meid, and mother-in-law, Linda Ruhlig.

We’re truly a family business, and have created an environment where our agents and clients are extended members of our family,” said Holly, “It’s our collaborative approach that makes us different from other real estate offices.”

Holly and her sister grew up on Lake Joyce in Lake Padgett Estates, and both still call Land O’ Lakes home.

“We absolutely love Pasco County. Our lifelong experience living here is a big advantage when working with people buying or selling homes in the area,” said Holly.

Published October 28, 2020

Join The Fun At Avalon Park’s Holiday Wine & Food Pairing Party

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Join neighbors and friends on Nov. 18 for a Holiday Wine & Food Pairing special event at Avalon Park Wesley Chapel. You can join the party in person at the development’s community center, or via Zoom. Either way, it’s a fun way to step back from the worries of the day and kick off the holiday season.

Cheryl and Charles Visalli, owners of Time for Wine

Co-sponsored by Time for Wine, a Wesley Chapel-based company that has been hosting wine tasting events for 17 years, participation will be limited to assure proper social distancing.

“We are planning for a small group of adults looking to have fun while learning about great wine options for your holiday dinners,” said Cheryl Visalli, who owns Time for Wine with her husband, Charles. “We will be tasting and sharing information about two Rieslings for our whites, three Pinot Noirs for our reds, and a port or sparkling for the dessert wine. We like to have a good mix of wines to please all the pallets of all our guests.”

Holiday foods to accompany the wines are being prepared by Chef Ghada of Dash of Salt ‘N Pepper, a New Tampa caterer known for its exquisite homemade cuisine and beautiful presentations.

“Our food-pairing events include fabulous food prepared by Chef Ghada — who brings a beautiful spread of appetizers and main course samplers, and of course, to-die-for desserts,” said Visalli.

Cost for the two-hour event is just $25 for those attending in person. For those joining by Zoom, there is no fee — only a request to buy two of the bottles of wine (at $20 each) being featured during the event.

Food pairings catered by Chef Ghada of Dash of Salt ‘N Pepper

“To make sure our Zoom guests are engaged in the tasting, we ask them to choose at least two of the wines we are serving, so they can join in the conversation and share what they like, and perhaps don’t like, about the wines,” explains Visalli.

Those joining by Zoom will be able to pick up their wine at the Welcome Center for Avalon Park Wesley Chapel on State Road 54.

About Time for Wine
Cheryl and Charles Visalli are wine experts who have traveled around the world visiting vineyards and selecting wines for their customers. Their journeys have taken them to Italy, France, Germany, Argentina, Chile, Australia, California and Oregon.

“We love to travel to meet new people, and it’s so rewarding to discover a new wine to share with our friends back in Tampa Bay,” said Cheryl Visalli.

Virtual wine-tasting party hosted by Charles Visalli

The company began 17 years ago doing home wine-testing parties, and has expanded to include “Teach ‘N Taste” classes, corporate events, custom gift baskets, an online wine shop and even a wine club.

It also hosts charity wine tastings for nonprofit groups, and wine seminars for businesses. A popular holiday program is its “private wine ” labels with company logos, which can include delivery to customers.

In this age of social distancing, Time for Wine has introduced a Virtual Wine Tasting program.

“With virtual tasting, you can see the difference and taste the bright, diverse flavors of your customized wine selection,” said Visalli, who adds that the virtual tasting experience includes wine delivery to clients’ homes, along with a tasting portfolio.

Groups who have enjoyed virtual wine tastings include Girls Night In, No-Travel Family Reunion, Back-To-School Teacher De-Stress and Virtual Clubhouse Gatherings.

Go to TimeForWines.net for more information.

Holiday Pairings
Wines by Time for Wine
And appetizers/desserts by Dash of Salt & Pepper
Wednesday, Nov. 18, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Payment or RSVP must be made by Nov. 12
$25 per person, in-person
Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
5060 River Glen Blvd., Wesley Chapel
In person or by Zoom
RSVP or AvalonParkWesleyChapel.com/holiday-dinner-wine-pairing/
For information, call (813) 664-1430.

More Avalon Park Events 

Drawing With Still Life
With Lionel Sanchez
Friday, Nov. 13
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Avalon Park Amenity Center
5060 River Glen Blvd.
Info: (813) 783-1515
Pasco Fine Arts Council Workshop

Avalon Aglow Holiday Celebration
Saturday, Dec. 12
FREE Family Event
5 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Fireworks at 9 p.m.
Community performances, pictures with Santa, bounce park, vendors, food trucks
Inside Avalon Park Wesley Chapel
State Road 54, 3.5 miles east of I-75

Published October 28, 2020

Meet Joe Barnes And His Incredible Gift

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Joe Barnes is a very unusual real estate agent. Every time he closes a deal — whether it is a buyer or seller — he takes up to $1,000 out of his commission and puts it into his customer’s pocket.

The only stipulation Barnes has is that this $1,000 gift be spent with a member of his local networking group of like-minded businesses in Tampa Bay — businesses who uphold the same high business ethics that he attests to.

This group, called the WBTHnetwork, includes Kia of Wesley Chapel, Go Bulls Moving Company, Crystal Springs Water, and home services that include lawn, pool and housecleaning.

“Our goal is to connect real estate clients to local businesses to help build stronger communities. We believe that by unselfishly giving cash incentives to customers to spend with local businesses, it will help create a stronger community that shares our vision,” said Barnes.

The $1,000 gift from Barnes and his Realtor associates is 100% transferable. “If a customer wants to give his $1,000 to a family member or friend, that’s absolutely fine,” says Barnes. “We want the money to go to the person who can use it most, and oftentimes the person who sold or bought the home can’t wait to share his incentive with someone who needs the money more than they do.”

While Barnes’ altruistic business approach is unusual, be assured there is no hidden agenda or alternative purpose.

“I’m asked all the time what’s in it for me, and the truth is that I fully believe that by incentivizing customers to spend their money locally on products and services they need, my generosity will be returned with repeat business and referrals,” said Barnes.

About the WBTHnetwork
Barnes and his WBTHnetwork are looking for partners in other business categories, including retailers, home furnishings, appliances, theme parks, hotels and restaurants, to name just a few. “As our network grows in more areas, we will continue to develop and grow loyal and lasting relationships in our community,” said Barnes.

Barnes is the founder and CEO of WBTH, an acronym for We Buy This Home. “In an age where e-commerce has shifted the way most companies operate, our network helps keep local businesses relevant by focusing their attention on one common denominator — the customer,” explains Barnes.

Barnes has over 25 years of experience in generating revenue and helping national brands such as Ford Motor Company, Ashley Furniture, Nestle Water and many others to achieve sales targets and growth potential. He currently is a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty in New Tampa.

Businesses interested in interviewing for the WBTHnetwork are asked to call Barnes at (813) 862-7713, or email . Home sellers and buyers also are invited to contact Barnes, to learn more about the up to $1,000 shopping spree they receive when closing a deal with the Realtor.

Published October 28, 2020