The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco offers more homebuyer assistance

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If you are ready to buy a home but are concerned about the down payment, Pasco County has a program that may be able to help.

The Down Payment Assistance Program is offered through the county’s Community Development department.

Changes are being made to increase the possibility of home ownership for homebuyers who otherwise might be unable to purchase a home.

The program now will allow a buyer to qualify for a loan of up to $50,000. The previous maximum was $25,000.

The maximum sales price of a home also has increased up to $275,000, up from $200,000.

Residents of Pasco County can qualify for the program if they earn less than 120% of the area median income.

Community Development provides assistance to income-eligible buyers toward the purchase of a home in Pasco County if you have not owned a home in the last three years. Applicant households who make less than 120% of Area Median Income (AMI) for the Tampa Bay Area may apply for assistance. Funding for both programs is based on current availability for each income level.

All interested homebuyers will need to contact Suncoast Housing Connections to attend a Homebuyer Education Class. Homebuyers must work with a Community Development-approved lender.

Lenders must attend training in order to participate in the Down Payment Assistance Program. All interested lenders will need to email Mari Thieryung to sign up for lender training. 

If you have any questions about the homebuyer programs available through the county, please call Pasco County Community Development at 727-834-3447, or visit MyPas.co/HomeBuyers.

To learn more about Pasco Community Development programs and services, visit MyPasco.net.

Published March 15, 2023

Passport applications way up in Pasco County

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Passport applications are reaching record highs in Pasco County, according to Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles.

Her office held a Saturday event on March 4, and within four hours, it received 309 passport applications.

“The line here in Dade City was out of the office, down the hall and to the stairwell in the government center,” she told the Pasco County Commission, during its March 7 meeting.

“The question I usually get when I’m out and about is, ‘What is the turnaround time for the Passport Agency to process passports. So, I can give that information. A routine passport is about eight to 11 weeks right now. Expedited is between five to seven weeks. You have to pay extra for expedited.

“There’s a way to get it even sooner for urgent travel, a non-emergency case. You have to go to the actual Passport Agency.”

The closest ones are in Miami and Atlanta.

A passport on an urgent basis can be granted in about 14 business days.

If there’s an emergency situation, it can be processed within three days.

Renewals can be mailed in.

Commissioner Kathryn Starkey also told her colleagues that it’s important to know that some countries will not let in foreign travelers if their passport is set to expire within six months.

Published March 15, 2023

Pasco commissioner named to national board

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Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey will represent the county as a member of the board of directors for the National Association of Counties. (File)

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey has been appointed to a one-year term on the board of directors for the National Association of Counties (NACo).

“I’m humbled and honored to represent Pasco County and the State of Florida on NACo’s board of directors,” Starkey said, in a Pasco County news release.  “I look forward to exchanging ideas with colleagues across the country and bringing Pasco County’s interests to the table when discussing the wide range of issues.”

The NACo board governs the strategic goals and priorities of the association, as well as oversees the association’s policies and business.

Board members are elected and appoint county officials from active NACo member counties.

Starkey was appointed to serve on three NACo committees in 2021.

NACo seeks to strengthen America’s counties and create healthy, safe and vibrant counties across the country, the news release says.

The association serves nearly 40,000 county elected officials and 3.6 million county employees.

Published March 15, 2023

Pasco proclaims its first International Trade and Tourism Day

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Pasco County recently celebrated its first International Trade and Tourism Day, and plans to make it an annual tradition.

The Pasco County Commission adopted a resolution on Feb. 21 to recognize relationships between Pasco and its partners around the world and the increasing role that global trade is playing in the county’s economy.

The increasing interactions between Pasco and other parts of the world have boosted Pasco’s gross regional product and have resulted in thousands of local high-skill, high-wage jobs, the resolution says.

A delegation, including Pasco County staff, trade and tourism representatives and the mayor of two towns in Belize, joined with the Pasco County Commission to celebrate the county’s first International Trade and Tourism Day. The county intends to make this an annual tradition to highlight the positive impacts the county derives from international trade and tourism. (Courtesy of Pasco County)

Setting aside a special day to celebrate each year is intended to highlight the benefits derived from global partners through their direct-foreign investments, and their contributions to Pasco through job creation and capital investment.

The resolution notes these activities by international partners “are made possible through strong partnerships with international resource partner organizations; the Association of Bi-National Chambers of Commerce; Foreign Consular Offices; the United States Department of Commerce; and Global Tampa Bay, a regional partnership between Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough Counties that increases international business opportunities for local companies and markets the region globally as a top business destination.”

The resolution adds that the Pasco county board “and local trade and tourism companies continue to work together to connect with future generations, build the next generation of skilled trade and tourism employees, take charge of the public image of trade and tourism, and ensure the ongoing prosperity of the whole industry.”

Earl Trapp, who is the mayor of two towns in Belize, joined a delegation representing trade and tourism interests at the county board’s Feb. 21 meeting to accept the resolution.

The group also had its photograph taken with the county board.

Trapp told the county board: “We are very much humbled and privileged to be here this morning, at this historical moment. I want to congratulate you on your great strides in developing this International Trade and Tourism Day, something of what I believe will bring economic development to your area.

“I’m very much amazed at the many developments that have taken place over the past 20 years.

“I am sure the transformation, through your leadership, had to have come with vision, with enthusiasm, proper planning, unity and of course, had to come through support of the community.

“I’m hoping this visit today will be the beginning of building relationship among common interest for both regions, and something that will bring mutual benefits for all of us.”

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, who advocated for the new day set aside to honor tourism and international trade, said “We are so excited that you are first visitors on our International Trade and Tourism Day.”

Adam Thomas, executive director of Florida’s Sports Coast, said that as the county’s tourism marketing becomes more sophisticated, it is telling the county’s story in an international marketplace.

“Central America is a key market for us. We are very honored and appreciative of the partnership we have with the TDC (Tourist Development Council), as we continue to tell our story to the global market,” Thomas said.

Published March 08, 2023

Watch out for door-to-door scammers

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The City of Tampa Utilities department has issued a consumer alert after a customer reported being targeted by a man posing as a water department employee, according to a news release from the city.

The imposter reportedly knocked on the customer’s door and threatened to shut off water service unless he received payment immediately. The customer did not pay, and the imposter left, the release says.

The water department wants to remind customers that all notices, including notices for overdue balances and shutoff notices, are sent in writing through the mail or via email for e-bill customers.

Customers also may be contacted over the phone regarding overdue bills, the release adds.

Authorized payment methods are listed on the back of the utility bill.

“We’ve seen different types of scams pop up over the years, preying on people’s fears,” Eli Franco, director of water operations, said in the release. “We want residents to know that we do not send city employees to knock on people’s doors to perform collection activities. We also remind residents that they can always contact our office directly to confirm that they are speaking with a city employee.” 

Water department employees are required to show proper identification and operate vehicles that display the city logo and other official markings.

Any contractors working on behalf of the department also are required to display identifying credentials, the release says.

Water department officials urge customers to report similar incidents, or verify their account status, by calling 813-274-8811.

Anyone who believes they have fallen victim to this scam should contact the Tampa Police Department by calling 813-231-6130.

Published March 08, 2023

Exploring the origins of pizza — a truly universal food

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Before we start exploring the early beginnings of pizza, I thought I’d share a little joke.

Did you hear about the guy who took a second job at a pizza parlor? 

He kneaded the dough.  

From controlling the sodium, to adding whole wheat flour to the dough for extra fiber, homemade pizza is a healthier version of the typical delivery and frozen options. (Courtesy of Unsplash.com)

Was that humor a bit too cheesy?

Well, I did say it was a little joke.

But all kidding aside, it’s no secret that pizza is a staple in the American diet.

It’s everywhere: On college campuses, in school cafeterias, at business meetings, at parties, on Sunday game days, and on, and on, and on.

In fact, about one in every eight Americans reports eating pizza on any given day.

So, here are some fun facts that I’m guessing you haven’t heard about pizza.

For one thing, pizza’s origin has roots in several countries.

The Greeks and ancient Egyptians made flatbreads for thousands of years before pizza was introduced in the United States. Also, Romans prepared panis focacius, their version of flatbread — today described as focaccia.

Here are a few more facts:

  • In the late 1800s in Naples, Italy, a pizza maker named Esposito made a pizza special for Queen Margherita in honor of the colors of the Italian flag (mozzarella, tomatoes and basil).

Today that’s known as Margherita pizza.

  • Modern pizza was influenced heavily by Italian immigrants, who introduced pizza to the United States. The first pizza parlor on record opened in New York in the early 1900s.
  • Industrialization brought about the ability to mass produce ready-made foods including fresh and frozen pizzas in grocery stores.
  • Different regions began developing their own style of pizza. Chicago deep-dish, New York’s thin crust, California-style, Philadelphia Tomato Pie, St. Louis-style, Detroit-style, and others.

Now that we’ve gotten to know a bit more about the history of pizza, I’m wondering: Which kind of pizza do you prefer?

Pizza continues to evolve.

The list of toppings has been expanded to include barbecue, mac and cheese, eggs, fruit, nachos, even 24-k gold.

Some pizzas are topped with tomato-based or pesto sauces, but there also are white sauces and sauce-free pizzas, too.

Of course, herbs are a common ingredient, and when it comes to herbs, the fresher the herb, the stronger the flavor.

Vegetables also can be a fun ingredient, such as onions, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers, asparagus tips, zucchini, green beans, broccoli.

The options truly are endless. 

Common pizza ingredients — tomatoes and cheese — combine to provide umami, one of the five basic tastes. 

Meats are savory and salty, while fresh fruit like pineapple, pears or peaches give a little sweetness to balance out the savory. 

Crusts come in many varieties, too. Some are thick, others thin. There’s whole wheat, gluten-free, cauliflower crust and others.

From a nutritional standpoint, pizza gets a bad rap because of the high calories, sodium, and saturated fat, mostly in the cheese and meat. 

A typical thin slice of just cheese has about 300 calories, so be mindful of how many slices you have and what toppings you put on.

To help keep your pizza healthier, use vegetable toppings to help fill you up.

You also can resist the temptation of overindulging by making your pizza a side item, instead of  an entrée. 

Prepare a big salad with your favorite greens and low-fat dressing, then have a slice of pizza on the side.

Remember, pizza can be enjoyed on occasion and it’s a fun food to share.

In fact, Pi Day, which is coming up on March 14, could be a perfect day to do just that.

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County. Pasco County Extension intern Syreeta McDonald, contributed to this column.

Recipe

Tomato-basil Pizza
Note: This made-from-scratch pizza, from Mayo Clinic, has a chunkier sauce made from chopped fresh tomatoes or crushed canned tomatoes. Also, to make this plant-based, leave out the cheese.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup whole-wheat (whole-meal) flour
  • 1 cup all-purpose (plain) flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon yeast
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 3/4 cup warm water
  • 2 cups canned unsalted crushed tomatoes, drained
  • 2/3 teaspoon dried basil
  • 2/3 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup grated reduced-fat mozzarella cheese 

Directions
Heat the oven to 375 F. 

Lightly coat a 10-inch round pizza pan with cooking spray. 

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar and yeast. 

Add the oil and warm water and mix well. 

Turn the dough out onto a generously floured work surface. 

With floured hands, knead the dough for 1 minute. 

If dough is too sticky, add flour 1 teaspoon at a time. 

Gather into a loose ball. 

Cover dough with plastic wrap and let rest for 10 minutes. 

In a small bowl, stir together the tomatoes, basil, black pepper and garlic powder. 

Roll out dough and press into the prepared baking pan. 

Spread the tomato mixture over the dough. 

Top with grated cheese. 

Bake until the dough is browned, and the cheese is bubbly, about 10 minutes to 20 minutes. 

Cut the pizza into 8 slices and serve immediately. 

Published March 08, 2023

Ash Wednesday begins a season of prayer, reflection and sacrifice

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A student receives ashes from Father Anthony Ujagbo outside of Saint Jude Chapel at Saint Leo University on Ash Wednesday. (Courtesy of Isaac Jeter/Saint Leo University)

Saint Leo University marked the beginning of the Lenten Season with the distribution and reception of ashes on Ash Wednesday, which was Feb. 22 this year.

Father Cosmas Amadi, left, and Father Anthony Ujagbo, who are seeking master’s degrees at the university, distributed ashes outside of the Saint Jude Chapel. Benedictine Monks of Saint Leo Abbey also distributed them at the Saint Leo Abbey Church.

Lent is a 40-day period leading to Easter, during which Christians of many different denominations choose to fast, pray, reflect, do penance, give alms or use other means of making a sacrifice or performing works of charity.

The ashes, which are applied on foreheads in the shape of a cross, are an outward sign reminding Christians of their mortality and their need to repent and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Published March 08, 2023

Who’s ready for a game of kickball?

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Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley accepts the trophy from Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller Nikki Alvarez-Sowles. (Courtesy of Office of Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller)
vThese are the players that competed against each other in a kickball tournament on Feb. 26 at Heritage Park, in Land O’ Lakes.

Employees from the Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Office squared off against employees from the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller’s Office in a kickball showdown on Feb. 26 at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, with the Supervisor of Elections Office pulling off the victory.

Teams from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office and Tax Collector’s Office had been expected, but were unavailable for the tournament.

 

CMK Construction: Expertise Guaranteed

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When creativity strikes, it’s only natural to want to get the job done ourselves, and quickly, too.

However, some projects are better left to the professionals, and performing major bathroom renovations is not the time to experiment with our creative side.

This is why, one of the best ways homeowners can save time, money and any potential headaches, is to hire a professional bathroom remodeler for all renovation projects. CMK Construction holds those answers, and has the years of expertise and satisfied customers to back it up.

“We have a team that truly cares a lot,” says owner Manny Kavouklis. “Sometimes, as with any business, that’s hard to find, but at our company, our employees always go the extra mile.”

The remodeling company has been serving the Tampa area for more than 19 years and offers customers a personalized experience, from an introductory visit in your home to the company’s 4,000-square-foot showroom to an individual design specialist for each project.

CMK’s professional bathroom remodelers have years of experience and expertise in bathroom renovation. They offer valuable insights into bathroom design, materials and fixtures that you may not be aware of.

“We only sell the best quality finishes and then combine them with flawless installation; it truly gives you that ‘WOW’ factor.” Kavouklis said. “We also use premium products such as Schluter products, which allow for lifetime warranties. You know you’re working with a professional when warranties are involved. It allows us to give our customers that extra peace of mind when knowing potential issues or defects will be taken care of in a timely manner.”

While it may seem counterintuitive, hiring a professional bathroom remodeler can be more cost-effective than doing it yourself. Professional remodelers have access to wholesale pricing on materials and fixtures, and can often get better deals through their connections — not to mention the time saved on the homeowner’s end by avoiding the exhausting labor involved.

Each project begins with an in-home visit, before clients then visit the showroom to walk through plans with an accredited designer.

The company offers many selections of new bathroom and kitchen fixtures, kitchen countertops and cabinets, backsplashes, accent lighting and more. CMK also offers custom engineering, computer-rendered 3D designs, and eco-friendly products, to name but a few options.

You will select every color, fixture and tile with the help of a certified designer. If you can dream it up, CMK accredited designers can help you make it happen.

Skipping the “do-it-yourself” way also ensures that you get a high-quality result that meets every need, and exceeds all expectations. With the help of CMK Construction, homeowners can expect a high-quality result that is durable and long-lasting.

“A professional bathroom remodeler will have the necessary skills and tools to complete your project to the highest standards of workmanship,” says Kavouklis.

As the company says, “Your Tampa home is more than your refuge from the world – it’s also one of your most important investments.”

If you’re ready to start on a remodeling project in your home, call CMK Construction at 727-800-1644 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation, or go to CMKConstructionInc.com.

Sweets for the sweet

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(Courtesy of Patricia Serio)

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club delivered sweet chocolate treats to both the Lutz and Land O’ Lakes branch library staffs, on Valentine’s Day. The club wanted to show its appreciation to the librarians for their contributions to the community and their efforts to promote reading among very young children. Woman’s club member Lucy Albury surprises a Land O’ Lakes Library staffer with the gift.