The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Avalon Park — A Place to Live, Learn, Work and Play

By

When families are looking for a new place to call home, they want a community where there is plenty to do. And, that’s why Avalon Park West in Wesley Chapel is one of Pasco’s most in-demand places to live.

Things for families to do typically begin with amenities provided by the developer, and few communities offer the recreational activities found at Avalon Park West for residents of all ages.

(Courtesy of Cred-Erik Smith Photography)

Just opened is an expansive second amenity center at the heart of the community, with a zero-entry pool, splash pad, spa, and picnic area.

Avalon Park West families also enjoy a wide array of other amenities, including another swimming pool, tot lot, basketball courts, pocket parks with mini-libraries, dog park, and trails and walkways that will interconnect with its downtown that will be opening next year.

And, when it comes to community activities, the Avalon Park Group provides a variety of fun events for its residents, and welcomes neighbors in surrounding communities to join in the fun. Ongoing monthly events include a Community Farmer’s Market twice a month, Movies under the Stars, food trucks and holiday celebrations.

The next big celebration is Avalon Aglow, which celebrates the holidays with a huge community splash, including evening fireworks, on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Activities include pictures with Santa, bounce park, food trucks, vendors, community performances and fireworks at 8 p.m.

“We are not just developers— we are building a brand new town with family events all year-long,” said Stephanie Lerret, senior vice president of marketing and community relations for the Avalon Park Group. “We’re bringing together everything a family needs to enjoy life today, and in the future.”

1,500 Residents
Already, 1,500 people call Avalon Park Home, and over 700 homes have been sold since it opened in 2012. The community will continue to grow over the next several years and, at build out, will be home to 10,000 residents residing in 4,400 single and multifamily homes.

Avex Homes and Beazer Homes are the exclusive builders in Avalon Park West, and both have beautiful model homes open for tour daily, with several inventory homes available now or will be in the next few months.

Single-family homes start in the mid-$200s, and are built on a variety of lot styles, including conservation, corner and pond view. Final lots are selling fast in Cypress Village — the first neighborhood built in the community, and the first residents are moving into Hawthorne Village, the community’s newest phase.

“It is very rewarding to offer local residents affordable homes for first-time homebuyers, as well as luxurious, move-up homes for families wanting a larger home in a community like ours that offers great schools and so much to do.”

Downtown Center
Avalon also offers residents places to shop and work in its downtown hub that will be connected to its residential neighborhoods by tree-lined streets, walkways and bike paths.

Infrastructure construction began last fall on the first phase of downtown Avalon Park West, which will include two office buildings, two mixed use retail/residential buildings and a community park.

“We’re building beautiful, multi-story buildings with commercial space designed for businesses our residents want close to home — restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops, bars and entertainment, hair and nail salons, as well as activities like dance, gymnastic and karate studios,” said Lerret.

And, unlike most subdivisions, Avalon Park West’s commercial area is not strip centers facing the busy road at the community’s entrance.

“We are building a traditional downtown, with stores located inside of our community on the boulevard road leading to our residences, parks and schools,” said Lerret. “We are creating a town that spreads out from the town center connecting to individual neighborhoods — very much like the footprints of small towns found across America.”

In addition to shops and markets, the community’s downtown area will have over 500,000 square feet of commercial space.

The first phase of downtown Avalon Park West is slated to open at the same time that the expansion of State Road 54 is completed to become a four-lane road.

Avex and Beazer model homes are open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m., on Sunday. For more information, stop by the Welcome Center at Avalon Park West, located at 33613 State Road 54.

Published October 30, 2019

Annie Harris Exhibits At Avalon Park West

By

Colorful, flowing, impressionist-style paintings by New Port Richey artist Annie Harris are on display at the second art show being presented by the Pasco Fine Arts Council at the master-planned community of Avalon Park West in Wesley Chapel.

The show, “Energized With Color,” also includes pottery by Denise Philbrook, and is open through Nov. 25 at the East Pasco Fine Art Gallery located inside the Welcome Center at Avalon Park West, 33613 State Road 54. The pubic is invited to visit this free exhibit, which is open daily.

‘Sailing’

Annie Harris has lived in Pasco County for 20 years, making her home in the Sea Forest community in New Port Richey.

Many of her paintings reflect her love of the water and beach, inspired by living on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, and her summer home on Madeline Island that overlooks Lake Superior in Wisconsin.

“I have always loved the water and the warmth of the beach, and many of my paintings are of nature and seascapes,” said Harris. “I like to use warm colors, and paint to show movement of the wind and waves.”

Harris describes her style as modern and dramatic, and paints her subjects loosely, blending lines and colors together. Unlike many artists, she does not sketch her work in pencil before she begins to paint.

“I just paint, and let the colors and motion flow,” said Harris.

She has 35 paintings on display at her show at the East Pasco Fine Art Gallery — all watercolors, except for three acrylic works. In addition to beach and water scenes, Harris’s also is exhibiting still lifes, florals, children, animals, abstracts and nudes.

Her favorite painting at the “Energized With Color” show is a self-portrait she calls, “Who I Am,” which is one of several stylized artworks on display.

“Along with the energy of nature, I love to paint the excitement of the human form. Everything about my art is about energy,” said Harris.”

All of Harris’ paintings at the exhibit are for sale, with most paintings priced between $200 and $300.

“I want people to be able to afford my paintings, and price them so they sell,” said Harris.

Before opening at Avalon Park West, “Energized With Color” was on exhibit at the Pasco Fine Arts Center in New Port Richey. During that three-week show, Harris sold 16 paintings, of which she donated 100 percent of the proceeds to the Pasco Fine Arts Council. She will also be donating to the Council all proceeds from the show at Avalon Park West.

‘Palms & Sea’

Harris grew up in New Jersey as the middle child, with two sisters and a brother. She began painting when she was 10, because dyslexia made schoolwork difficult, and she gravitated towards the arts, where she excelled.

“I had three very smart siblings who I could never compete with academically,” said Harris, “My mother encouraged me to discover my strengths through painting, and always supported my interest in the arts.”

Harris went on to study art in college, and received her Bachelor’s Degree of Fine Arts from the University of Arizona. After college, she and her husband, Larry, lived in Minnesota for 25 years, spending summers at a cottage they bought on Madeline Island, which the couple still owns.

After moving to Florida, Harris became involved in the Pasco Fine Arts Council, and has been one of its most active members. She is also a longtime member of the Florida Watercolor Society.

The partnership between the Paso Fine Arts Council and Avalon Park West began earlier this year, with a goal to bring arts and cultural events, exhibits and workshops to East Pasco County. This is the first time in the Council’s 40-plus year history that is has had a location in East Pasco to host its exhibits and art classes.

After Harris’ show closes, a new artist will be featured at the East Pasco Fine Arts Gallery, for a total of six artist exhibits during the first year of this new partnership. The next show opens Nov. 25 and features Rita Wilson in a show titled, “Thru My Eyes,”  with a reception to celebrate her work on Dec. 13 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Published October 30, 2019

Be Wary of Companies That Don’t Specialize In Plumbing

By

Knowing who to call when one of your home’s primary mechanical systems needs repair —plumbing, electrical and air conditioning — can be overwhelming with so many businesses advertising their services.

Complicating your decision is that many A/C companies also offer limited plumbing services to install hot water heaters, a faucet or toilet. Unfortunately, most of these businesses only specialize in air conditioning, and when they add on limited plumbing services, they do not offer customers the full range of plumbers and installation crews often needed for a job.

The Plumbing Team at Cornerstone Pros

“A lot of A/C companies that add on plumbing services do not have the experience to take care of the entire plumbing needs of a home,” said Dana Spears, president and owner of Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “These companies like to flip water heaters when they do a new A/C install, but do not have the plumbing experience a customer thinks they do.”

At Cornerstone Pros, its plumbing division is a stand-alone service department with 10 certified plumbers and three installation crews. Combined, this talented group has over 50 years of combined plumbing experience.

“When it comes to a true plumbing emergency, companies that do not have a full-service plumbing department do not have the knowledge, or the right equipment, to properly do the job,” said Spears.

“Don’t be tricked by thinking that all plumbers are the same. It takes many years of hands-on experience to be a master plumber. A sewer stoppage, whole-home re-pipe, gas lines install and other large projects require proper staffing that’s experienced and knowledgeable. These jobs can take up to five days, and having a qualified installation crew is essential for the job to be done correctly,” she continues.

Spears explains, many plumbing jobs require camera systems, sewer machines and industry-specific tools that most A/C companies do not own, because they are expensive to purchase and maintain. Cornerstone Pros owns this equipment and stays on top of the latest plumbing technology and tools.

“When you call Cornerstone Pros, you don’t have to worry because we have you covered for everything from the basics to the biggest jobs for your home,” said Spears. “Our plumbing team has the industry experience to handle your job and fix it right the first time, no matter the task.”

Cornerstone Pros was founded in 2006 as an air conditioning service company. It moved to its 4-acre site on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard in 2011 and, the following year, added plumbing services. In 2014, it expanded again with electrical services.

In 2018, Cornerstone Pros built a 6,000-square-foot warehouse next to its headquarters on U.S. 41, to store air conditioning units of all sizes and stock high-demand service items for its air conditioning, electrical and plumbing operations. It also stocks tankless hot water systems, and portable and permanent generators, including whole-house systems by Generac.

“Every morning our vans are fully stocked with everything our technicians need, which means on most calls, we are able to solve a customer’s problem on the first visit,” said Spears. “Our warehouse has allowed us to become a more efficient service operation and provide even better customer service.”

Spears credits her company’s growth to its commitment to outstanding customer service, and also because its employees exemplify her company’s values.

“We hire people who are genuine, honest, trustworthy, clean-cut, and live their life with good ethics and morals,” said Spears. “Most employees are local people who live in our service area, and are very committed to their work and community.”

The company has developed its own training program for employees to become certified in its trade areas. Over 20 employees have successfully completed these programs, receiving numerous industry certifications, and now work as highly skilled tradesmen.

“We’re always looking for eager, hardworking men and women with a good attitude and mechanical aptitude,” Spears says. “We’re successful because we’ve built our business on reputation and trust, which begins by hiring great people.”

Cornerstone phones are answered 24/7, and technicians are available around the clock, including weekends and holidays. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night. For more information, visit their website at CornerstonePros.com.

Published October 30, 2019

Bilirakis helps Pasco secure $500,000 safe schools grant

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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

By

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