The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pasco County Schools expand online options for elementary students

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By B.C. Manion

Pasco County Schools is ushering in a new program this year aimed at expanding its online offerings for elementary students.

A smattering of elementary students who excel in mathematics have already been able to take online middle school-level courses, but this school year the district is inviting such advanced children to take a broader array of courses via computer.

The idea is to provide an option for children to accelerate their learning, said David Scanga, the district’s assistant superintendent of elementary schools.

Because this is a new initiative, the district has no idea if it will involve just a few students, or hundreds, Scanga said.

No matter how many elementary children take the online courses, the logistics will still need to be ironed out, said JoAnne Glenn, who oversees Pasco eSchool. She added that the main issues are transportation and supervision.

“It’s really going to be a case-by-case scenario,” said Lori Wiggins, supervisor for curriculum and instructional services for the school district.

In some cases, a child might be able to shorten the school day and take the online course in their house. In other situations, the student may need to go to the media center during part of the day, and then take the online course later at home.

In any event, the idea is to broaden educational options, Glenn said.

Blending online and traditional learning methods is the wave of the future, Scanga said.

Both Scanga and Glenn said there are differences that parents need to understand about the new methods.

For instance, parents must be more connected in their child’s learning when taking an online class.

“The parents play a critical role,” Scanga said. “Kids who succeed in that virtual realm have parents who are very, very engaged.”

Children in elementary and middle school tend to need guidance and mentoring from the parents, particularly in the areas of time management and accountability, Glenn said.

In the elementary online model, the parent is the learning coach and teaching guide, Glenn said.

“The parent is doing some actual teaching,” Glenn said.

Wiggins said students must also be engaged: “Being in a virtual learning process, you have to be sure you are motivated.”

Parents interested in exploring this option should begin by talking to their school’s administration, Glenn said. From there they will bring in eSchool staff as part of that conversation.

Parents of kindergarten and first-grade students who are being home-schooled or who are attending private schools may also be interested in the online option, Glenn said.

Glenn said the district views this option as a way it can help children maximize their potential.

“It opens a lot more possibilities for schools and families to collaborate around the individual needs of students,” Glenn said.

For more information about the district’s online learning opportunities, visit www.pasco.k12.fl.us/pvip/

School board gives initial OK to budget

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Balancing budget requires nearly $24 million in cuts

By B.C. Manion

The Pasco County School Board has given initial approval of a district budget topping $1 billion for the 2012-13 fiscal year.

But balancing the budget required the district to make about $24 million in cuts.

The plan receiving first-round approval includes cuts such as:

—Two furlough days for employees, saving about $3.3 million.

—95 fewer positions, saving more than $3.4 million.

—Freezing two district administration posts, saving $176,142.

—Cutting supplemental days for band directors and football coaches, saving about $36,000.

—Reducing department budgets, saving $125,000.

—Eliminating a dozen literacy coaches, saving about $690,000.

—Using $8.9 million to cover property insurance from a fund that won’t be available next year.

“It’s not a cut that anybody in the district, I think, wanted to happen.”
—Board member Cynthia Armstrong on cutting literacy coaches

Superintendent Heather Fiorentino initially recommended four furlough days to help plug the budget hole, but reduced that to two days after the district managed to save money in other ways, such as leaving district openings vacant for longer periods and trimming operating costs.

The district had been bracing for $24.8 million in cuts, but that number went down by roughly $1 million after the county’s property tax values dropped and the state increased its funding for schools.

Part of the reason the district has had to shift personnel and reduce positions is because it must add 107 positions — at a cost of approximately $5.2 million — in order to comply with the state’s class-size requirement.

Meeting that requirement has caused the district to reassign teachers to core academic areas, which will result in fewer elective choices for students in the coming year.

This is the fifth year in a row that the district has faced multi-million cuts.

School board members said the reductions are painful because they reduce district services. They also noted the district is stymied in its efforts to enhance and expand educational opportunities.

School Board Chairwoman Joanne Hurley, along with board members Alison Crumbley and Cynthia Armstrong, said that cutting the literacy coaches is particularly difficult.

“It’s not a cut that anybody in the district, I think, wanted to happen,” Armstrong said.

The move comes at an especially bad time because the district is gearing up to meet even tougher accountability standards, Hurley observed.

The board members also noted the district would like to add an International Baccalaureate program in East Pasco, but the money simply isn’t there.

They also would like to explore adding Schools of Innovation to provide more choices for parents of elementary students, and do more to expand its career academies for high schoolers. But again, they noted, the district doesn’t have the money.

Crumbley said the budget isn’t final, and if any savings can be made in other areas, such as transportation or energy, she’d like to see a greater investment in intervention efforts to help struggling students to succeed.

Trying to find ways to improve education while grappling with budget cuts is frustrating, Crumbley said.

“In addition to not moving forward, it seems like you’re taking steps backward,” Crumbley said.

For instance, she thinks the district could do a better job in career guidance for its students, but she said that’s hard to accomplish when there are fewer guidance counselors.

Armstrong also noted that the district must abide by state mandates even though local officials often have a better idea of what would benefit Pasco students most.

A public hearing and final vote on the school district’s budget is set for 6 p.m. on Sept. 18. The hearing will be at 7227 US 41 in Land O’ Lakes.

 

Restaurant’s name aims to pique curiosity

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By B.C. Manion

There’s a new restaurant in Land O’ Lakes at a familiar spot.

Mosquito Grill and Bar has taken the space formerly known as Rapscallions.

The updated patio at Mosquito, which overlooks Lake Bell. The restaurant used to be known as Rapscallions.

Besides new ownership, the restaurant at 4422 US 41 is getting a makeover — one room at a time. The menu is new, except for a few old crowd favorites at Rapscallions.

The owners chose a name that would prompt conversation, said Mark Nixon, one of Mosquito’s new partners.

“We were trying to be different; to stand out a little bit,” Nixon said. He added, “Good or bad, people are talking about the name. I hope it raises enough curiosity that they will come check us out.”

Chad Bille, Mosquito’s general manager, added, “Come and see what the buzz is about. It only takes one bite. … The menu has changed. Everything is scratch cookin’.”

Nixon said they are using as much local produce as possible.

“We’re trying to stay on the cutting edge of that,” Nixon said. “Fresh is always better.”

Menu items include everything from gator bites to fish tacos to barbecue pulled pork to Danish ribs and country-fried venison. The menu also serves a variety of appetizers, soups, salads, seafood entrees, sandwiches, pasta dishes, steaks, pork, chicken and desserts.

However, the restaurant has toned down its wings. It no longer serves the version known to be so hot that they were featured on an episode of Man vs. Food.

“We still have the biggest wings in town,” Bille said. “That hasn’t changed.”

The restaurant has also added pizza — a selection that has proved to be a popular choice with patrons.

Lisa Richardson, an electrical contractor in Land O’ Lakes, was dining at Mosquito recently and planned to give the pizza a try. She’s been coming to the restaurant for about 10 years and likes the changes so far.

“The atmosphere is a lot brighter, a lot cleaner,” Richardson said. “They changed the ladies’ room. They painted it,”

The renovations are a work in progress, Nixon said.

Mosquito has a new game room and its patio, which overlooks Lake Bell, has been given a fresh look with black metal furniture.

Future outdoor plans call for adding a grill, bar, music and a tin roof over the patio.

The aim is to create a “Key West feel, casual fun,” Nixon said.

The changes are being made gradually, and the restaurant is staying open during the makeover.

“We’re going to have to attack one room at a time,” Nixon said. “Every single day there’s a change being made.”

Nixon expects the transformation to take about a year.

Besides the patio, the interior will get some new touches.

The furniture will be replaced. The carpets are being ripped out and the concrete floors are being stained. The walls are also being dressed up.

The restaurant has changed its hours and it plans to have live music seven days a week, Bille said.

The kitchen will be able to accommodate patrons who want to grab a late dinner, play some pool and listen to music, Nixon said.

“Our kitchen will be open until midnight during the week and 2 a.m. on weekends,” Bille said.

Regulars will notice familiar faces serving their food.

Nixon said the owners kept the workers because they value the relationships staff members have with patrons.

“A lot of people come here to see their regulars as far as the bartenders and the servers,” Nixon said. “They have a rapport built up. I think that’s important to keep that going.”

The restaurant has a large bar, which draws a regular crowd, Bille said.

“We’ve got a bar that’s like Cheers,” Bille said. “Everybody knows everybody’s name. We have people who come every day. We’re a tight-knit family.”

Lutz resident Cindy Greco, who was eating at the restaurant recently, is glad to see the same servers and bartenders. She’s also pleased to be able to listen to live music.

“We were in dire need of entertainment in the Lutz/Land O’ Lakes area,” Greco said. “They’re offering entertainment seven days a week. This fills the void.”

Rose Stowers and her husband, Michael, who live in Land O’ Lakes, were recently grabbing a bite at Mosquito. They’re pleased about the extended hours.

The Stowers are also glad that their son, who works in the kitchen, was able to keep his job.

“I was a little worried that they were going to let the folks go,” Rose said.

Nixon envisions people hanging out on the patio, wearing flip-flops and enjoying a meal.

“It’s going to be a good positive thing for the area,” Nixon said. He added, “At the end of the day, the ultimate goal here is to provide a really good service and great quality, so people want to keep coming back.”

Mosquito Bar and Grill

Monday through Thursday, 4 p.m. to midnight

Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Sunday, 11 a.m. to midnight

Full liquor bar and live music

Reservations are accepted

For more information, visit mosquitogrillandbar.com

 

Business Digest

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Loans available for Tropical Storm Debby victims

Hillsborough County small businesses, including small agricultural cooperatives and small aquaculture businesses, as well as most private nonprofit organizations, may apply for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans to recover from financial, working capital losses caused by Tropical Storm Debby.

Landlords who have lost revenue from their rental properties are also eligible. This Economic Injury Disaster Loan assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any physical property damage. At this time, Hillsborough businesses and nonprofits are not eligible for cost recovery for any physical storm damage.

Interest rates are as low as 3 percent for nonprofit organizations and 4 percent for businesses with terms up to 30 years.

Loan amounts and terms are set by the SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 3, 2013.

Additional details on the loan application process and eligibility are available by calling  (800) 659-2955. Those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing should call (800) 877-8339.

More information also is available by emailing .

Businesses that have been affected may apply online using Electronic Loan Application on the SBA’s secure website at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.

Individual homeowners suffering home damages can seek assistance from Hillsborough’s Homeowner Rehabilitation Program by calling (813) 612-5397.

To be considered for other disaster assistance, call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at (800) 621-3362. Those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing should call (800) 462-7585.

 

Central Pasco Chamber Clay Shoot

The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce is hosting its third annual Clay Shooting Event on Aug. 25. Registration for the event begins at 8 a.m. Shooting begins at 9 a.m.

The event will be at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays, 10514 Ehren Cutoff in Land O’ Lakes. For more information or to be a sponsor, call (813) 909-2722.

 

Catholic networking

Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay meets from 7:30 to 9 a.m. on Tuesdays at Our Lady of the Rosary, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes.

Catholic Business Network of Tampa Bay is a nonprofit membership organization for Tampa area Catholic business people. While we welcome people of all faiths, the network is comprised of Catholic professionals who want to incorporate their faith into the workplace while networking with other Catholics to foster personal and business relationships. For more information, visit www.cbntampa.com or call Mary Ann Whallen at (813) 833-4737.

 

HART recruits bus drivers

Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) is now recruiting bus drivers. The starting pay is $11.91 an hour. An online application is available by visiting www.goHART.org.

 

Women-N-Charge luncheon

Women-N-Charge will be gathering for a networking session and luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Sept. 7 at the Pebble Creek Country Club, 10550 Regents Park Drive in New Tampa. The cost is $15 online, www.women-n-charge.com, by the Tuesday before the meeting. After that, the charge is $18.

Jen Holloway of Bay News Nine will be the featured speaker.

For more information, please contact Judy at (813)-600-9848 or .

 

Rays’ game fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco is being featured at the Tampa Bay Rays game versus the Baltimore Orioles on Oct. 1.

The organization will be recognized during the game, in conjunction with World Habitat Day 2012.

Discounted tickets are on sale through Sept. 1 at Habitat’s website, www.habitatpascor.org

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity of East & Central Pasco.

 

New doctor’s office opens in Land O’ Lakes

Access Healthcare has announced the opening of the practice of Dr. Jennifer Laman at Oakstead Professional Center, 19409 Shumard Oak Drive, Suite 103 in Land O’ Lakes.

Laman is board certified in family medicine and osteopathic manipulative treatment. She will be on the staff at the Medical Center of Trinity.

Laman accepts patients from preadolescence through geriatrics. For more information and to make an appointment, contact (813) 749-7152.

 

Be a holiday ambassador, win $50,000 prize

Taste of Home magazine is seeking an official Holiday Ambassador, and the woman who is crowned the winner will receive $50,000 and serve as the magazine’s celebrity spokesperson.

The magazine is looking for the woman who embodies the holiday spirit. Here’s how you’ll know you may be just right for the prize if:

—You are 18 or older

—You love to cook, decorate and entertain

—Your signature recipes are a must-have at every gathering

—All of your friends and family already consider you the Queen of the Holidays

The winner will make live appearances, participate in interviews, do cooking demonstrations and will travel around the country.

To enter between now and Sept. 7, log on to Facebook.com/TasteofHome to upload a short video and a signature recipe that demonstrates how you bring the holiday to life for family and friends.

The winner will be selected from the top 100 entries that receive the most votes from the public.

 

William Ryan Homes starts phase four sales in Ashton Oaks

William Ryan Homes has launched its pre-sales program for the final phase of single-family and executive homes at Ashton Oaks, just off SR 54, east of Meadow Point Boulevard.

Jeffrey D. Thorson, regional president of William Ryan Homes, said the company plans to build residences from its extensive design portfolio on 38 remaining home sites. It has already sold eight homes in the phase.

The sales office is in the model home at 3827 Ashton Oaks Blvd. in Wesley Chapel. The office is open Monday through Thursday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday and Sunday.

For more details, call (813) 788-4663 or visit www.WilliamRyanHomes.com

 

Back to school

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By the Pasco Health Department staff

As summer break comes to a close and children return to school, we encourage parents to prepare their child by considering important preventive health measures.

Keeping students healthy and safe will give them the best chance to succeed during the school year. Proper eating, adequate physical activity and good sleep patterns are instrumental to success.

Starting the day with a nutritious and balanced breakfast influences educational excellence and improved school performance. If there is no time at home, plan for breakfast at school.

Adequate amounts, a minimum of 60 minutes a day, of active play is recommended for school aged children. Physical activity is not only critical for their health, but can also impact their performance in class. It has also been linked to stronger academic achievement, increased concentration and improved test scores.

School can be challenging enough without feeling drowsy. Get an early start on returning to school time sleep patterns. Educational performance can only benefit from getting enough rest.

As children enter or return to school, it is vital for families to follow the recommended immunization schedules. Our children should be vaccinated to prevent some of the most serious diseases.

Parents should contact their family physician or their local county health department to make sure immunizations are up-to-date or to find out how to schedule an appointment to get caught up.

Even students who have graduated high school often have to get certain immunizations before leaving for college.

Whether your child walks, bikes, buses, rides or drives to school, there are preventive measures to keep him or her safe.

Be sure to speak with your children about safely traveling to and from school, which includes planning safe routes, reminding them to stay on the sidewalk or in the bicycle lane and cross the street only at designated crosswalks. It is also important to show them how to properly wear a bicycle helmet if they use two wheels to get to school.

Car travel requires age appropriate safety seats and everyone needs to be belted in. Seat belts can save lives.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a great online article about school safety that includes tips on helping kids continue practicing safety measures when a parent or guardian is not around. To read the piece, visit www.cdc.gov/Features/SafeSchools/.

Safety and prevention should be on every student’s back to school list. A little prevention will help keep our communities safe and healthy places to live.

—For more information from the Pasco County Health Department, visit www.doh.state.fl.us/chdpasco/default.html or call (727) 861-5250.

 

Hot summer gardening tips

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By BJ Jarvis

Pasco Extension Horticulture Agent

Thankfully the Tampa Bay area has not been experiencing the brutal heat found in much of the country, but August still heralds the dog days of summer causing many gardens to wilt under the heat and humidity. There are several tasks to help the landscape beat the heat.

Lawns will develop a deeper, more resilient root system if mowed at their maximum preferred height. For most Pasco County grasses that is between 3 and 4 inches. Taller grasses actually shade out weeds and help cool the soil, reducing evaporation.

Also, check that the blades of your lawn mower are very sharp to minimize tearing of the grass. Torn grass allows more water loss and is an open invitation to disease.

Fertilizers should include a slow release component. Fertilizers containing 1/3 to 1/2 slowly available nitrogen may cost just a bit more but benefit by needing to be applied less often and protecting waterways from pollution. Contact the Extension office for additional guidance when applying fertilizers if you don’t know how much to use.

If your garden has an irrigation system, make sure its not overdosing plants unnecessarily. Too much water can cause disease or thatch development. Assure the automated shut-off device is working properly. If the system runs soon after a significant rain event, start here to remedy it.

Maintain a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around trees, shrubs and in flower beds. Choose a mulch of something once living, such as pine, melaleuca, and eucalyptus, but avoid cypress. Mulch of rocks and rubber can actually make gardens hotter, defeating the purpose to a certain extent. Mulched beds also benefit from reduced weed competition and lower soil temperatures.

To help landscapes beat the heat, manage it in a way that will build resilience. Mow turf high enough to shade soil, assure irrigation system and shut off device are functioning properly, then mulch landscaped beds adequately with an organic material. These simple and cheap steps will pay off in a higher-performing and lower maintenance landscape.

Contact the Pasco Extension office with gardening questions at or by calling (352) 518-0474.

 

—BJ Jarvis is Director and Horticulturist for Pasco Extension, a partnership between the University of Florida, USDA and county government.

Academy at the Lakes’ progressive football steps

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By Kyle LoJacono

The Academy at the Lakes football team has been on an upward track since veteran coach John Castelamare took over the program three seasons ago.

Wildcats junior center Isaac Klopotek and the squad’s other two starting offensive lineman have been together for two years.

The Wildcats made the playoffs in 2010 and finished 7-5. They improved to 10-2 a year ago with a trip to the six-man state quarterfinals.

Castelamare, who coached for 11 seasons at Wesley Chapel High before coming to the academy, has seen tremendous growth in the players following another offseason of intense workouts.

“They’re a lot stronger now,” Castelamare said. “They’d never done all the lifting like we do now before I got here. We had to just teach them how to do those things, and now you can see it’s paying off. It takes a little time, but now they know what they have to do all year round, not just in the fall.”

The players have also benefited from Castelamare’s 40-plus years of experience coaching football and his disciplined approached. The returning players have high expectations for what is possible in 2012.

“We can win states with this team,” said 6-foot-2, 215-pound junior lineman/inside linebacker Jack Fishman. “We have to keep working, but we have what it takes. … It’s been a culture change. We’re more organized with coach Cass. Nobody is running wild and we’re winning a lot more.”

A state title would be the program’s second following the six-man championship won in 2006. The Wildcats are moving up to seven-man football this year, but remain a part of the Florida Christian Association of Private and Parochial Schools (FCAPPS).

The seven-man league comes with traditional rules.

Apart from a field only 80-yards long and 40-yards wide, the new format uses the same rules used in 11-man football. The six-man division prevents quarterbacks from running the ball without a double handoff, but allows for all players, including lineman, to go out for passes.

The more familiar rules in place not only fit the Wildcats’ personnel, but also Castelamare’s beloved run-heavy wing-t offense.

“For me, I love it because those six-man rules were a little crazy,” Castelamare said. “Everyone goes out for a pass, not me. I like to run the ball and control the game. Now with 11-man rules we can do more things, and the quarterback can run with the ball. Our quarterback from last year, A.J. (Carlson), is going to be mad because he couldn’t run with it.”

The new guy under center is sophomore Max Stepanets, who is already 6-foot-5 and 195-pounds. He also doesn’t shy away from contact.

“I think I’ll be able to surprise some people because I’m a quarterback who loves to hit,” Stepanets said. “I love hitting.”

Protecting Stepanets and opening holes for the backs is an offensive line that has been together for three years. The unit returns center Isaac Klopotek along with Alex Stark and Fishman.

“We’ve left them there and they’ve gotten bigger and stronger,” Castelamare said. “They’ve been working on their speed, and I expect this year if we need to go get a couple tough yards we should be able to run for it. Forget that flashy stuff the other guys do.”

The academy does lose its most prolific playmaker in fullback Jarrett Harvey, who had 62 touchdowns with 2,684 yards last year. His efforts earned him a scholarship with Webber International University in Babson Park, making him the first boy from the school to ever sign with a college.

Moving in at fullback is junior Evan Gordy, who used his 6-foot-3, 200-pound frame to run for 113 yards on 15 carries and three scores in 2011.

“Evan runs a different way,” Stepanets said. “He’s bigger than Jarrett, but he’s not as quick. He’s going to able to take it right up the middle. This kid is huge, and he runs about a 4.5 40(-yard dash). He can play just about any position, so he can do some things.”

The squad returns junior wingback Ahkil McGill (624 yards, eight touchdowns).

“It’s really exciting,” McGill said. “We’ve got a new quarterback stepping in, and he looks pretty good. We’ve got a new fullback who’s looking pretty buff.”

The speed from the 5-foot-10, 150-pound McGill and the power of Gordy and Stepanets give the Wildcats different options.

“We have a lot of combinations we can use now, especially with the new rules,” McGill said. “We’ve got speed, we can run with the quarterback to do those option plays, we’ve got power with Evan up the middle. We can do a lot of things.”

Castelamare said spreading the ball around will likely benefit the offense.

“Last year everyone was looking at Jarrett, but Ahkil was pretty good too,” Castelamare said. “I don’t know if we’ll have that breakaway guy all the time, but we’ll get down to the end zone.”

 

Academy schedule

Home games played at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway

Aug. 24 vs. Lakeside Christian at 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 31 Bye

Sept. 6 vs. Town ‘N Country Christian at 6:30 p.m.

Sept. 14 at Elfers Christian at 4:30 p.m.

Sept. 21 TBA

Sept. 28 vs. Washburn at 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 4 vs. TBA

Oct. 12 at Citrus Park Christian at 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 19 vs. The Rock at 6:30 p.m.

Oct. 26 at Solid Rock at 7:30 p.m.

 

Bishop McLaughlin football ranks, expectations swell

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By Kyle LoJacono

Passes and routes were crisp, running backs hit the right holes and confidence ran high during the first week of football practice at Bishop McLaughlin.

Back up 12 months and the story was completely different. At that time Derrick Alexander was entering his second month as the program’s coach, taking over for Matt Nardo who left to take over the program at Marietta College.

Bishop McLaughlin junior quarterback RJ Perciavalle is excited about the prospects of running the squad’s new spread offense. (Photo by Kyle LoJacono)

Alexander was defensive end at Florida State University, was drafted 11th overall by the Minnesota Vikings and played five years in the NFL. He brought in new schemes, more difficult training and scheduled the toughest teams.

The ‘Canes stumbled out to a 0-5 start, but rallied to win their final four regular season games to qualify for playoffs and finished with a 4-6 record.

“The first couple of weeks were a little shaky, but as the season went on we picked up speed,” said junior quarterback RJ Perciavalle. “By the end we were clicking.”

Senior wide receiver/strong safety Austin Meyers believes they’ve learned from those struggles.

“The first four or five games we were making mental mistakes and missing assignments,” said the 6-foot, 165-pound Meyers. “When we finally got together we started racking up the wins. This year we’re planning on playing big from the start and keeping that going by focusing on our assignments, eliminating mental mistakes and having no turnovers.”

Alexander said the slow start was partly due to changing the offensive and defensive systems while the kids adjusted to him.

“The kids had to get a feel for what I expect out there,” Alexander said. “I think as the season went on we started gaining confidence, and that’s why we were the first team to make the playoffs in school history. That’s quite an accomplishment, and we’re trying to build off that. We’ve shown we can get to that point, but now it’s time to move forward this year.”

The late-season success created a buzz around the program. Bishop has seen several transfers, including senior running back Sammy Sullivan from Sunlake, while drawing more of the school’s athletes to the gridiron. The squad has 35 players, more than any other year.

“Hopefully with another successful year that will draw more kids to come to Bishop, especially because next year we’re hoping to get into a district,” Alexander said. “That would give us the chance to win a state title while giving kids a quality education here.”

Senior right offensive tackle and defensive end Zack Lockhard said being able to learn from a former NFL player has also helped build the program.

“I think having his name with our program has gotten Bishop McLaughlin out there,” said the 6-foot-1.5, 255-pound Lockhard. “We’ve gotten some new kids coming here to play for him and learn from him. He’s helped our D-line with the new drills. We’re getting so much better.

“I would say he’s doubled my skill set,” Lockhard added. “I was actually planning on leaving the school, but when I heard a first-round draft pick who played my position was coming in, there was no way I’d go anywhere else.”

Alexander brought in former Blake coach Micheal Burns during the summer to be the offensive coordinator.

While the offense is a bit different from last year, Alexander said it builds off what they did in 2011.

“It’s a spread offense, so a quarterback is going to like that,” Perciavalle said. “There’s a lot of throwing and we’re having fun out there running it. I think it’s going to help us a lot.”

The 6-foot, 165-pound Perciavalle completed 124-of-220 passes for 1,820 yards and 17 touchdowns last year. Alexander said they will still run the ball with the new offense.

“We’re going to throw the ball, but we’re still going to be a power running team,” Alexander said. “We got a blessing with Sammy Sullivan coming from Sunlake. He’s probably the strongest kid on our team. Last year with Jordan Betancourt (642 yards, 11 scores) we had more of that speed rushing attack. Now we’re getting downhill and getting physical with teams.”

Alexander said the team will only go as far as its lines take it.

“It’s all about the offensive and defensive lines,” Alexander said. “Everyone has guys who can make plays, but you have to win the line of scrimmage, and I think we have the guys to do that.”

The ‘Canes kick off the regular season at home against Cambridge Christian on Aug. 31 at 7:30 p.m.

–Stats as recorded to Maxpreps.com by coaches

Wesley Chapel Bulls ‘back home’ in PPAL

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By Jeff Odom

After spending a season away from the Pasco Police Athletic League (PPAL), the Wesley Chapel Bulls youth football and cheerleading program returns with the hope of continuing its run of success.

The Bulls left PPAL before last season to join the Mid-Florida Football and Cheerleading Conference, where the program had hoped to gain more exposure against teams from across the state.

Corneil McCrary, 9, participates in tackling drills on running backs during a recent Wesley Chapel Bulls practice. (Photo by Cameron Valdez)

But high travel costs mixed with new interest in PPAL from Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco, who was a Division-I Academic All-American lineman at the University of Delaware, made the decision to come back clear to Wesley Chapel program director Doug Johnson.

“It’s been really beneficial to the Wesley Chapel Bulls as a whole to come back, and to support our own community is a definite plus,” Johnson said. “There’s good things to say about Mid-Florida as a whole, but it was time to come back home and with the  appointment of Sheriff Nocco, who is getting so heavily involved in PPAL as a whole, just wanting this organization to grow.”

All five classifications — Junior Flyweight, Flyweight, Mighty Mite, Junior Varsity and Varsity — have started preseason conditioning four days a week at the Wesley Chapel District Park. Second-year Mighty Mites coach Kevin Barber is impressed with his roster so far and can’t wait to see how it stacks up against the rest of the league.

“This is my first time in PPAL after coming over last year, but we did play some PPAL teams in the Turkey Bowl and ended up going to the championship game, which was fun,” Barber said. “We have the same group of kids, so I’m happy to face some of those same teams and do good again.”

Tyler Richmond, a multiple position player on the Mighty Mites, said he’s looking forward to a new slate of opponents in his second season with the Bulls, but views each one the same way.

“There’s nothing much (difference) between them,” Richmond said. “They’re all just another team, and I’ve been working a lot to practice and go to conditioning, drinking water (to get ready for the season).”

Johnson said the PPAL community has been great in welcoming his program back. Still, he expects a lot of the area programs to target the Bulls as a team to beat this season. He added, each one of Wesley Chapel’s age groups has the talent on the field and the leadership from coaches to make a run toward a Super Bowl championship.

“The PPAL, I can’t say enough about it,” Johnson said. “It’s changed so dramatically in the five years that I’ve been here. It’s been an amazing transition, and we were eager to come back home and help support this community. The kids are ready to go, and if we don’t go to the Super Bowl at all levels, I’d be very, very surprised.”

For more information on the program and to register, visit www.wesleychapelbulls.com. The deadline to sign-up for football and cheerleading is Aug. 31.

For additional information about PPAL and it’s other organizations, such as the Land O’ Lakes Gators, Zephyrhills Bulldogs or Dade City Pirates, visit www.pascopal.org.

Land O’ Lakes hoists Little League regional softball title

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By Kyle LoJacono

The Land O’ Lakes 9- and 10-year-old softball team brought home something never seen before in Central Pasco County — a Little League regional championship.

Land O’ Lakes went 4-1 at the Southeastern Regional July 27 to 31, improving the squad’s all-star record to 15-1. It is the first time any team from Central Pasco, baseball or softball, has earned a regional Little League crown in the program’s 42-year history.

Jenna Garbielli scored the first run against Virginia in the regional title game July 31.

“It’s like nothing else,” said Land O’ Lakes left fielder Anna Rawls. “Oh my gosh, to win against all those teams in our region; it just so happens that Land O’ Lakes, Florida won the Southeastern Tournament.”

Land O’ Lakes coach Homer Kilfoyl said he knew the girls had the ability from the first practice in June. The squad outscored its opponents 131-41 in the all-star season.

“It was just a matter of how we put them together,” Homer said. “They played against each other during the regular year, but when they came together it was unbelievable. … Some of them had to play different positions from the regular season. They all played where I asked them to, and the way they played together was something to see.”

Homer said playing in a tough District 25 tournament helped prepare the squad to win the Section 4, state and regional titles.

“Some of our toughest competition was right here in the district,” Homer said. “New Tampa was really tough. We had to beat them 1-0 and 3-2 in extra innings. … In all honesty, I don’t think anyone outside of our team thought we’d get out of the districts and get by New Tampa. They had a really good team.”

Land O’ Lakes had less than two days after states before getting on a plane for Virginia. Homer said the girls didn’t have time to think about the magnitude of what was happening.

“They just wanted to go to Virginia,” Homer said. “It’s funny, because they didn’t seem to feel any pressure. It seemed like it was just a fun atmosphere for them. … Me and the other coaches, I felt a lot of pressure to put them in the right spots at the right times. I was trying to make it right for the girls so they all had fun too.”

Homer said the pitching and defense had been solid all year, but the squad’s bats came alive at regionals.

Land O’ Lakes started the final challenge of the season with wins against Alabama and Georgia 9-0 and 10-0, respectively. The victories assured the squad of a spot beyond pool play, but Central Pasco lost its third contest to Virginia 6-2.

The semifinals against West Virginia started sluggishly for Land O’ Lakes, falling behind 4-0 after three innings. The local girls had cut the score to 4-2 when Rawls stepped to the plate in the fifth with runners on first and second.

“I was just thinking this is a big moment,” Rawls said. “The whole team is counting on me. It was one of those do-or-die moments. I was really nervous. I just didn’t want to strike out.”

Facing a full count, Rawls came through with a two-RBI single over the head of the West Virginia shortstop.

Central Pasco had a 9-7 lead entering the bottom of the sixth inning. Pitcher Lexi Kilfoyl, Homer’s daughter, got the first two outs but walked the third batter. Two wild pitches later gave West Virginia a runner on third base.

Homer went to the mound and told Lexi to calm down and throw a strike. She delivered a fastball on the next pitch, which was grounder back to the mound for the game’s final out.

“I just wanted to put it over the plate to get that last out,” Lexi said. “When I saw it coming back to me I just took my time so I didn’t throw it away. … When I saw the umpire say she was out, I can’t even describe what that feeling was.”

The championship game pitted Land O’ Lakes against Virginia. The contest went into the second inning tied 0-0. Land O’ Lakes didn’t let it remain scoreless for long.

Lexi led off the inning with a walk, followed by a single by Jenna Gabrielli. Rawls stepped to the plate and smacked an RBI single to left field to bring home the game’s first run.

“We were confident,” Rawls said. “The game before we dropped out heads a little bit. In the final game we kept our heads in it. … After coming back from down four runs showed us we can win if we keep our heads up.”

Land O’ Lakes tacked on 10 more runs to win 11-1 in five innings, one short of a full regulation game. As in the semifinals, Lexi recorded the final out on a comebacker to the mound.

 

Regional championship roster

Vanessa Alexander

Morgan Boudreau

Emily Bowling

Prestine Carter

Kimmie Cheung

Gianna De Grace

Jenna Gabrielli

Lexi Kilfoyl

Bionca Potts

Anna Rawls

Asia Thomas

Callie Turner

Homer Kilfoyl, coach

Dan De Grace, assistant

Darin Kilfoyl, assistant