The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

St. Leo chooses new mayor

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The Town of St. Leo chose Vincent “Mike” D’Ambrosio as its new mayor during its annual May reorganization meeting, on May 9.

D’Ambrosio is director of safety and emergency management at Saint Leo University. He also is the assistant pastor at The Rock Church in Brooksville.

(Courtesy of Andrea Calvert)

A native of Citrus County, he has been employed at the university since 2008, and has lived in the Town of St. Leo for three years. He was appointed to the Town Commission in June of 2020.

He and his wife, Heidi, have three children: son Vincent “Dakota,” daughter Ryleigh Buchanan, and son Luke.

In other action, commissioners chose to retain James Hallett, O.S.B., as Mayor Pro Tem. Brother James became a Town Commissioner in April 2000. He is originally from Newton Falls, Ohio, where he lived with his family before joining the U.S. Army.

Hallett served three years in the military, including one year in Korea.

After leaving the Army, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in business from Kent State University, followed by a Master of Arts in accounting from Youngstown State University.

Hallett moved to Saint Leo Abbey in 1988. He is active in monastery life and is the manager of the Saint Leo Abbey gift shop.

The meeting also marked the return of William Hamilton, who was elected to fill Commission Seat Five in April.

Hamilton previously served on the Town Commission for eight years, including three as mayor.

Commissioner Hamilton is from St. Leo and is continuing a family history of service. His father served as a commissioner and as mayor, during the 1980s.

Hamilton and  his wife, Barbara, have four children.

Published May 18, 2022

Seeking applicants for Florida’s Supreme Court

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The Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC) is seeking applicants for the Florida Supreme Court, according to a news release.

The nominating commission is looking for qualified applicants to create the vacancy being created by the retirement of Justice Alan Lawson, which is effective Aug. 31.

The judicial application may be obtained from the Governor’s Judicial Nominations online at tinyurl.com/2p88v7b3.

Applicants must submit: (1) an original electronic copy of the application (including all attachments) in pdf format; and (2) a redacted electronic copy of the application (including all attachments), which excludes all material that is exempt or confidential under applicable public records laws, also in pdf format. Both the original and redacted electronic applications must be submitted electronically to all Commission members at their email addresses below before 5 p.m., on May 27.

The JNC strongly prefers the submission of applications in a searchable (i.e., non-scanned) pdf format.

The JNC will determine which applicants to interview. Those selected will be contacted to confirm the time, date and location of the interview.

The anticipated interview date is June 11, and if needed, June 12. The interviews are expected to take place in Tampa.

The members currently serving on the Florida Supreme Court Judicial Nominating Commission include:

Chair Fred Karlinsky, Weston, 

Vice Chair Jesse M. Panuccio, Palm Beach Gardens, 

Cynthia G. Angelos, Port St. Lucie, 

Daniel Nordby, Tallahassee, 

Hala A. Sandridge, Tampa, 

Heather Stearns, Tallahassee, 

Jeanne T. Tate, Tampa, 

Harout Samra, Coral Gables, 

Tim Cerio, Tallahassee, 

Published May 18, 2022

After 23 Years of Service, Commander Sets Sail For New Horizons

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Service to one’s own country can be a difficult decision. It’s never easy to put on hold relationships, personal goals or any other ties we may have, to give up our time for something greater than ourselves.

The Laker/Lutz News would like to thank Commander Jason Cummings for his 23 years of service, as he retires from his position with the U.S. Navy.

Because of what is sacrificed, military service forever will be a noble pursuit, no matter the enlistment. When asked what his service meant to him, Cmdr. Cummings simply stated,

“It means that I was ensuring the protection of freedom and rights of everyone, afforded by the constitution.”

Jason Cummings was born in Jacksonville, Florida and raised in White Bluff, Tennessee.  After graduating from Tennessee Technological University, he was commissioned via Officer Candidate School at Naval Air Station Pensacola in October 2000. He attended the Naval Intelligence Officer Course in Dam Neck, Virginia. He earned his Master of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College Satellite Program in 2018.

Throughout his time in the military, Cmdr. Cummings and his family were stationed in Tennessee, Virginia, Alabama, Japan, Florida, Hawaii and Maryland. While working for the Navy, he also visited many foreign places like Singapore, Thailand, Greece, Italy, England, and Israel.

“I grew up to see so much diversity,” said daughter Laurel Cummings, who is the Sales Assistant at The Laker/Lutz News.

“It gave me a stronger appreciation for people’s individuality and perspective on how important our communities can be. Also, getting to live in a lot of different environments was cool — from rainforests to deserts, I’ve seen a lot!”

Cmdr. Cummings’ first priority has always been his family; it’s what led him to his service in the first place.

“At the time, my first daughter was young and my second was on the way. I was making minimum wage with no insurance. The military was a good place to get benefits. Then, it ended up being my long term career,” said Cmdr. Cummings.

However, no matter what part of the world he was in, he understood that the ties of brotherhood were only temporary – family is eternal. Retirement was his way of coming back home to what truly matters most to him, this time for good. He used the parable of the Ship of Theseus to drive this point home. Overtime, if a ship had each of its components replaced, would the ship still be the same by the end?

“In the military, yes, this would be true. But with family – you can never be replaced,” said Cmdr. Cummings.

Now, as Cummings retires and steps away from his career, he wants to remind anyone who is seeking a long-term career in the military to find and maintain balance.

“Balance the demands of military service with the needs of your family. Their support makes the sacrifice worth it,” said Cummings.

Cmdr. Cummings has been awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Commendation Medal (two awards), Navy Commendation Medal and Navy Achievement Medal (three awards) as well as various other personal and unit level awards.

He will enjoy the rest of his retirement at his home in Lutz, spending time with his wife of 25 years, Michelle, and their five children: Laurel, Catherine, Heather, Jacob and Thomas.

Published June 01, 2022

Pasco is offering rental assistance

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Pasco County is partnering with local nonprofit agencies to help pay bills for renters, according to a county news release.

The Pasco County Commission has announced additional opportunities through its Helping with Emergency Assistance Relief for Tenants (H.E.A.R.T) 2.0 program.

The county’s Community Development department is working with the local nonprofits on this initiative.

The Pasco H.E.A.R.T. 2.0 program can pay up to 18 months of bills for qualifying renters.

Bills that are eligible for payment include rent, water and electric bills.

To qualify, your household must be at or below 80% of the area median income. You also must have a past due rent/utility bill.

You also must prove Pasco residency and have experienced a COVID-19 economic impact.

Pasco County received funding for this program through the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program.

Applications are being accepted online 24/7 through May 31.

To apply, visit bit.ly/PascoHEART.

For more information about the program or application process, call Pasco County Customer Service at 727-847-2411.

Published May 11, 2022

Honoring Vietnam veterans at commemorative dinner

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It was a tight squeeze, so the Color Guard from Tampa’s American Legion Post 5, came out in a single file to post the colors prior to the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance. From left: U.S. Air Force veteran Jess Scoggins, of Tampa; Ed O’Mara, of Tampa; Carlos Gill, of Tampa; and U.S. Navy veteran John Blidy, of Tampa. (Fred Bellet)

Soldiers returning from the Vietnam War often faced hostility and scorn.

An event commemorating the 50th anniversary of that war had a much different tone.

Here, those who served their country were regarded with respect, and their sacrifices were honored and celebrated.

About 150 people turned out for the event, hosted by American Legion Post 108, at the Plantation Palms Golf Club.

Veterans, family members and others gathered for the event, at which 44 Vietnam veterans were honored.

Tribute also was paid to those who did not return from the war — through displays in the room and the symbolic “Missing Man” table.

American Legion Post 108 Commander Randy Holeyfield welcomed those gathered, and Tampa’s American Legion Post 5 provided the ceremonial color guard and honor guard duties.

U.S. Marine Corps veteran Dan Biser, of Lutz, offered the opening prayer, and retired U.S. Marines Corps Maj. Gen. James Hartsell spoke on “Keeping the Legacy Alive.” Hartsell is the executive director of the Florida Department of Veteran Affairs.

The atmosphere at the event was one of dignity, respect, honor and pride.

Published May 11, 2022

U.S. Army veteran Robert Hurt, of Tampa, has clear recollections of his years as a sergeant major in Vietnam, from 1966 to 1971.
United States Air Force veteran Joe Dilimone, left, was a flight line supervisor during his tours in Vietnam, from 1966 to 1968. He served in a role something like an air traffic controller, getting aircraft into the air and landing them. He attended the Vietnam War 50th Commemoration Dinner with his son, Robert, of Port Richey.
Bob Szymanowski, of Land O’ Lakes, right, sergeant-at-arms for American Legion Post 108, greets veterans. His son, Keith, of Brooksville, stands beside him.
Post Commander Randy Holeyfield reflects and remembers the Vietnam War. Holeyfield, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, welcomed the nearly 150 people who attended the event at the Plantation Palms Golf Club.
Sarah Holosopple looks over a Vietnam War commemorations displays set up in the banquet room at Plantation Palms Golf Club, the site of the event held to honor veterans of the Vietnam War and to mark the 50th anniversary of the war. She attended the event with her father, Gerry Holosopple, of Land O’ Lakes, a Vietnam War veteran.

Festival welcomes students interested in scouting

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A festival featuring activities for Cub Scouts and students interested in learning more about the organization for boys and girls is planned for May 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Spring Cub Fest, sponsored by the Fort Brooke District of the Greater Tampa Bay Council of Boy Scouts of America, will be at Camp Brorein, 16901 Boy Scout Road, in Odessa, according to a news release.

Those wishing to attend are welcome at any point during the event’s slated time period.

The festival is designed for elementary school children. It will feature fun activities, including shooting sports, climbing, crafts, games and displays, said Tom Knotts, activities chairman in the Fort Brooke District, in the release.

“It’s a great opportunity to see what the Cub Scouts program offers – fun, friendship and outdoor activities,” Knotts said.

Event registration fee is $10 per participant. To register, visit ScoutingEvent.com/089-springcubfest.

Published May 11, 2022

Pasco signals increase to residential waste collection rates

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a June 7 public hearing on a proposal to lift the ceiling on charges for residential solid waste collection and disposal.

Under the change, the proposed residential rates would be allowed to be increased based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for garbage and trash collection.

According to material in the board’s agenda packet: “The last adjustment to this rate ceiling was in June of 2019. Since that time, market forces have significantly impacted waste collection costs.

“Both the global pandemic and recent geopolitical events have resulted in increased labor rates, delays in supply chain, and higher fuel costs.

“To ensure the financial viability of residential waste collection in Pasco County there is a need to revise the county’s residential collection rate structure.

“Feedback from waste haulers has indicated that the ability to adjust rates annually will result in higher market confidence and increased competition. The majority of Florida counties do not employ a fixed price ceiling for residential waste collection and instead the price of residential collection is either bid as a component of the franchise process, or the haulers operate as an open market.”

Pasco’s staff recommended allowing a two-year lookback, which would result in a maximum increase of 8.6%.

After that, increases would be annually based on no more than the CPI for garbage and trash collection.

Board member Jack Mariano thought the 8.6% was too steep and asked if the lookback could be for just one year.

But that idea did not find support on the board.

Commissioners Mike Moore and Ron Oakley said the cost of doing business has gone up.

The item will come back to the board on June 7 for a public hearing.

Current multi-year agreements between haulers and HOAs/CDDs will remain in effect and will not be affected, unless the existing agreements have provisions for cost escalation.

When those agreements expire, the CPI for garbage and trash collection will be used as the maximum percentage the rates could increase on annual basis.

Published May 11, 2022

New fee for utilities assessment searches

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Pasco County Utilities will be charging a new $9 fee for utilities assessment searches, effective July 1, according to a county news release.

The fee will cover assessment search services for water, sewer, reclaimed water and commercial solid waste services at a specific property.

Assessments are designed to protect property owners who are taking on new loans or refinancing, the release says.

The fee rate was established through the Utility Rate Study and helps to offset associated costs, including staff and equipment, the release says.

“A title search should include checking for unpaid assessments,” Utilities Customer Information & Services Director Sandra Anderson, said in the release. “Overlooking an assessment could be detrimental, as any unpaid assessments will be levied against a parcel, and are subject to penalties and lien activity. A thorough search, before closing, reduces additional costs after the closing.”

Allow up to five business days for each assessment search. Billing statements, sent the first week of each month, will show requests that were received the month prior.

Payments may be made online or over the phone by calling 855-786-5344, which is available 24/7. A full list of payment options and payment methods are available by visiting bit.ly/PascoUtilitiesBillPay.

For more information on the assessment process or the tools developed by Pasco County Utilities, visit bit.ly/PCUAssessmentSearch.

Published May 11, 2022

Pasco creates cultural affairs advisory council

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Pasco County has created a Cultural Arts Advisory Council and is seeking volunteers to serve on it.

The five-member board will be involved in helping to shape the future of cultural opportunities in Pasco County.

The board’s purpose will be to bring additional arts and cultural resources, as well as opportunities, to Pasco — with the aim of enriching the county’s artistic vitality and cultural vibrancy, according to a county news release.

“This council will provide guidance and direction for arts and culture issues,” said Pasco County Commission Chairwoman Kathryn Starkey, in the release. “We’re thrilled to assemble this council, and we hope community members who’ve made significant contributions to the arts or have an interest in expanding cultural opportunities will apply for this amazing opportunity.”

The positions require individuals who:

  • Have extensive knowledge of the arts and culture scene
  • Can assist in applying for grants
  • Will be involved in establishing an awards program to recognize cultural programs and in organizing workshops and events

The deadline for applications is May 31. To apply, visit bit.ly/AdvisoryBoardApp.

The Pasco County Commission will appoint five members to the council, who will serve two-year, staggered terms.

Published May 11, 2022

Avalon Applauds Kids Helping Kids Pasco County 

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Congratulations to Kids Helping Kids Pasco County for being applauded by Avalon Park Wesley Chapel.

The nonprofit organization was founded in 2018 by president Michelle Patel, who was looking for ways for her family to serve the community together. Patel didn’t find many local opportunities for children to be involved, until a sandwich-making project in​​ the community became the ‘building blocks’ for Kids Helping Kids Pasco County.

The nonprofit strives to be a source of assistance to local, low-income families that are struggling financially but may be unable to receive assistance elsewhere.

“We have a ‘no questions asked’ policy when it comes to most of the support we provide. If a family reaches out in need of support, we will do everything in our power to help them,” says vice president Dara Dimeler.

Kids Helping Kids Pasco County has a few projects it does every year, such as its summer food drive and holiday toy drive.

“Our Teen Advisory Board helps to guide our projects every year – they provide valuable insight into the needs of their peers,” says Patel.

The organization also has started installing some Free Little Libraries around the area, and are doing more routine road cleanups.

The two Little Libraries are located at the RCMA Dade City Learning Center and the Pasco Woods Apartments in Wesley Chapel.

“We supply the books, and we have volunteers that routinely check on the libraries to make sure they are not damaged and are fully stocked,” says Dimeler.

Patel says the nonprofit’s greatest achievement to date has been its COVID-19 food project.

“When schools abruptly closed in March 2020, the access for food was initially very limited within our county. We saw a need and stepped in immediately to provide supplemental food to families that had suddenly lost the food support they would have otherwise been receiving through free/reduced school lunches,” says Patel.

Together with the help of more than 100 volunteers, community donations and business sponsors, Kids Helping Kids Pasco County provided more than 27,000 meals over a 21-week period.

“Watching the community come together in what was such a unique and confusing time was absolutely amazing to witness, and something I personally will never forget,” says Patel.

For Patel, the most rewarding part of founding Kids Helping Kids Pasco County is the impact the nonprofit has on these young children.

“Watching a child with a smile on their face genuinely wanting to help make a difference in their community is what keeps me going. We’ve had the opportunity to watch many of these young volunteers grow over the years, step up into their community and really make a difference,” says Patel.

Kids Helping Kids Pasco County is currently looking for a fundraising chair. The nonprofit also is looking to fill spots on its Back to School Planning Committee. Ideal volunteers for this role would be available to work through the summer to plan and execute its drive scheduled for July 30, 2022. Both of these roles would be adult-held positions.

For more information on how to support or volunteer for the nonprofit, call 813-957-5711.

Be sure to follow the nonprofit on Facebook (Facebook.com/KidsHelpingKidsPasco) and Instagram (@kidshelpingkidspasco).