The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Special to The Laker/Lutz News

New garden to help families heal

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Pasco Kids First joined members of the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, local community leaders and members of the Professionals of Landscaping to commemorate the completion of a new Resiliency Garden with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Pasco Kids First is a 501(c) charity devoted to child advocacy and protection, to help keep kids safe, strengthen families through empowerment and enhance the community by preventing child abuse and healing children from trauma.

The garden, at 7344 Little Road in New Port Richey, was created and underwritten by 12 professional landscape companies that donated their time and resources to create the area, according to a news release.

Recognizing a need in the community, the group tapped into the talent of its members to transform an area of dirt and old palm trees into a garden outfitted with a rock path, bench seating and a water feature.

“A once vacant side lot of our office is now a beautiful and therapeutic setting for trauma survivors to begin or continue their healing journey. We cannot thank Professionals of Landscaping enough,” said Mike Trepper, president and CEO of Pasco Kids First, in the release.

To learn more about the charity, visit PascoKidsFirst.org, email , or call 727-845-8080.

Published February 28, 2024

Community leaders, members of Professionals of Landscaping and the Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce, and Pasco Kids First commemorate the new Resiliency Garden with a ribbon-cutting. (Courtesy of Leslie Farrell/Farrell Communications)
The Resiliency Garden offers a therapeutic place to help trauma survivors through their healing journey.

Traffic detour in Dade City begins March 1

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The Florida Department of Transportation, District Seven has issued a notice to drivers in and around the Dade City area.

Beginning March 1, Southbound U.S. 98 Bypass/U.S. 301 will be closed from River Road to Meridian Avenue. The closure will continue for approximately 10 months. Northbound U.S. 98 Bypass/U.S. 301 will remain open to traffic.

Drivers will need to access properties in the closure area from northbound U.S. 98 Bypass/U.S. 301 or local streets.

The determined detour route is: Traffic traveling southbound on US 98/US 301 approaching the work zone will be detoured south on US 98/Seventh Street through downtown Dade City. Drivers who want to continue on southbound US 98/US 301 or access Old Lakeland Highway will turn left onto Meridian Avenue and go east, then turn right onto southbound US 98/US 301.

To help avoid delays and bypass downtown Dade City, trucks and other large vehicles that are using southbound US 98 to continue south beyond Dade City are encouraged to take SR 50 west to southbound Interstate 75 and return to US 98 on eastbound State Road 52.

For project information and to sign up to receive email alerts about closures and progress updates, visit FDOTTampaBay.com/project/939/256423-3-52-01.

Published February 28, 2024

Bill that would revise the state’s pre-kindergarten program advances

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(The Center Square) — Florida lawmakers have advanced a bill this week that would allow young students and those who teach them the tools to be successful.

State Rep. John Snyder, R-Palm City, sponsors House Bill 1353. It would revise Florida’s laws on the state’s pre-kindergarten programs known as early learning coalitions and other specified early learning programs.

CDC/Unsplash

While introducing his bill to the House PreK-12 Appropriations Subcommittee, bill sponsor Snyder said that the bill would better support children, providers and early learning coalitions.

Snyder stated that Voluntary Prekindergarten Education Program instructors — who have completed a 60-hour micro literacy credential or have scored a 3 or higher on the instructional support domain of the program assessment — would be allowed to teach the summer VPK program.

The bill also prohibits students from using electronic devices in these programs as instructional tools. At the same time, parents would be required to be notified if a student is falling behind in their learning.

“[The bill] prohibits the use of one child to one device for instruction in the VPK setting, and it also requires a VPK provider to notify each parent of a VPK student if they have not met the minimum performance metrics,” Snyder said.

When the bill was originally drafted, Snyder stated that the bill had made provisions to authorize early learning coalitions to increase the administrative percentage fee that they take from the providers, an increase from 4% to 5%. However, the fiscal impact was not able to be included in this year’s fiscal budget and was amended out of the bill.

A second amendment removed another program, the VPK summer-bridge program. Snyder stated that the program was removed because it is included in HB 5001, the state’s General Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2024-25.

Snyder added that the bill would add tools needed to capture those students who may struggle with their early learning and pointed out that one only has to look at literacy rates to know how important this is for young students.

“The data does show that the sooner we can get the students who are having those learning gain issues, the better it is,” Snyder said. “So there’s no greater tool in my opinion, than to make sure our earliest learners are set up for success as they enter kindergarten.”

Published February 28, 2024

UnBinged – Newer, Better, Faster, Stronger? Reviews of ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ ‘Shogun,’ and ‘The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live’

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In this week’s UnBinged, we look at a few new series with a familiar face. These are reworked and reimagined time-tested tales with established fan bases made shiny and new for the next generation. From an adaptation of a miniseries that your mother loved to a live-action version of the cartoon you adored as a kid, here are a few shows that streaming networks tried to improve for your benefit. Did it work? 

Avatar: The Last Airbender (Netflix)
After nailing it with the adaptation of One Piece, Netflix appears to be their apology tour for Death Note and Cowboy Bebop with Avatar: The Last Airbender, the live-action version of the much-beloved Nickelodeon series. Given the fondness for the original series, the devotion of the fanbase, and the disaster that was the previous adaptation, updating Avatar was a bit of a gamble.

For the uninitiated, Avatar: The Last Airbender is set in the Earth Kingdom, where nations are defined by the elements of fire, water, earth, and air. There are telepaths who can manipulate the elements, but only one who can manipulate all four, known as an avatar. It has been many years since one has been born, and during that absence, the Fire Nation has seized power, unaware of the existence of young airbender and avatar Aang (Gordon Cormier). After a century trapped in ice, Aang along with waterbender Katara (Kiawentiio) and her brother Sokka (Ian Ousley), must finish his training and find a way to end the Hundred Years’ War so he can bring balance to the world. 

For purists looking for a straight adaptation, there are some changes to the original story as the live action version finds its way, but key moments are still intact enough to make the fandom happy.  And clearly, Netflix did not want to disappoint. The production is filled with lovely moments thanks to stellar casting, set design, and a lively script that caters to both long-time fans and newbies with no prior knowledge of the original show. And while there are several times when the CG doesn’t quite keep up with the demands of the script, the heart of the original series is still there, along with plenty of fan service.  

Both the young and adult cast competently capture their animated counterparts and the bit players who help make up this unique world. Like the animated series, the characters are given complexity one wouldn’t usually find in fantasy fiction or a 2D world. Cormier does an admirable job creating a flesh and blood Aang, but it is Paul Sun-Hyung Lee as Uncle Iroh who brings home the raw emotional moments. 

Avatar: The Last Airbender is pulling triple duty in not only providing fans with a fanciful live action version of their favorite series, but also erasing the shadow of a less than stellar film version while helping rebuild Netflix’s reputation for animation adaptations. The result is a charming version of the Nickelodeon series that should make fans smile from ear to ear.  

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Shogun (FX/Hulu)
FX/Hulu’s contemporary adaptation of James Clavell’s Shogun takes a step in the right direction with its extraordinary reworking of the story “Anjin” John Blackthorne and his time in Feudal Japan. It is a big swing for the network, as the original miniseries has long been considered landmark television, but this reimagining is not only a revelation, but a much needed rectification for a flawed story.

A war between Japan’s Council of Regents has been brewing since the death of the Shogun. Four of the regents have set their sights on Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), intimidated by his growing influence. But just as the vultures circle, English pilot Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) arrives with the goal of disrupting Portuguese-Catholic relations in Japan, only to become a pawn in the escalating conflict.

In this big, bold remake, Blackthorne is still key, but is not the central character. Instead, Toranaga, Lady Mariko  (Anna Sawai), the politicians that make up the Council of Regents and its court are very much the focus, as they should be. And while the romance between Blackthorne and Lady Mariko is still prominent, it isn’t fundamental to the narrative. Instead, Toranaga and those in his court take center stage. 

This Shogun is a rich and complex reworking of the original saga. Righting the wrongs of the original narrative by highlighting the strengths of the story and placing problematic tropes in the backseat, thus giving us an inspired remake for a new generation, and possibly the next. 

The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live (AMC/AMC+)
Remember when The Walking Dead audience got its first glimpse of Michonne (Danai Gurira)? She had with her two walkers as personal guard dogs to mask her scent – terrifying to behold, but missing their jaws and limbs so they were rendered pointless, with no real bite left in them. For most people, that is what has become of The Walking Dead franchise after almost 15 years. The zombie show seems horrific, but upon closer examination, the series lacks any bite. Oversaturation of the franchise has exhausted fans thanks to AMC’s nonstop rollout of zombie-related content to the point that the undead almost seems tedious.

Now they offer The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live. So, this begs the question: What sets this series apart from all the others? For super fans, the answer is Rick and Michonne.  

Led by season four showrunner Scott M. Gimple and actress/producer Gurira, The Ones Who Live takes a gander at one of the few love stories from TWD that didn’t end with one or both parties eaten, bitten, or killed by some jerk who turned evil by their own hubris. When we last saw Rick (Andrew Lincoln), he appeared to sacrifice himself to take out an entire herd of walkers, but was actually whisked away via helicopter by the Civic Republic Military. And when we last saw Michonne, she left her children to go look for him.

In the first two episodes, Rick and Michonne are on their own journeys, spending years attempting to find each other, only to lose hope and limbs along the way. When reunited, the duo fight obstacles in the form of the CRM and its minions, as well as a few familiar faces from the past. The duo must also reconcile with who they had to become to survive during their years apart and rekindle the flame that brought them together. 

Oh, and occasionally fight the undead. 

Watching Lincoln and Gurira slip back into their roles is certainly a treat for long-time fans who live for such moments. They alone are the reason to watch. But there isn’t much else here to draw in a crowd. The CRM as an antagonist injects the series with almost  immediate ennui, as there is nothing as droll as facing off against a faceless agency. But the real issue is that the world has grown “walker weary.” Only Rick, Michonne, and promises of upcoming reunions are the only enticement for The Ones Who Live. And while the acting and world building is still top notch, only the devoted will follow this latest chapter, which offers little to newbies.

Published February 28, 2024

Tips to Support Your Metabolic Health

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Good metabolic health is the backbone of great overall health. Unfortunately, many Americans misunderstand what metabolic health is and are not aware of its importance.

A recent poll from Metavo/Harris Poll Study reveals that nearly three in four North Americans have experienced at least one issue related to metabolic health in the past year, while only 52% have heard, read or seen information on metabolic health issues.

What’s more, only 30% of North Americans know that metabolic health is not the same as gut health, and many falsely believe that metabolic issues mostly occur in those who are overweight.

(c) Sanja Radin / iStock via Getty Images Plus

“This knowledge gap plays a factor in why many health issues related to metabolic health, such as brain fog, food cravings and energy slumps, often go unaddressed,” says Dr. Paul Spagnuolo, associate professor in the Department of Food Science at the University of Guelph, whose research includes finding new ways for people to proactively support their metabolic health.

Issues related to metabolic health can take a toll on your mental wellbeing, your ability to perform your job, and even your social life and personal relationships, making it critical to nip them in the bud. To improve your metabolic health and feel your best, consider these tips:

  • Get active. Whether you’re hitting up the gym for a weight training session or simply going for a longer walk during your day, daily physical activity is recommended to support your metabolic health. Find activities, daily movement and workouts you enjoy and stick with them.
  • Prioritize proper sleep. Maintaining proper sleeping habits can help to keep your insulin and hormone levels balanced.
  • Fuel often. Fueling more frequently can boost your metabolism. Being sure to eat smaller portions at regular, consistent times every day and drinking plenty of water can also help improve metabolic health. Set alerts on your phone, or even use a hydration app, to help you remember to drink up.
  • Explore supplements. Consider taking a daily supplement designed to support metabolic health and activate metabolism naturally, like Metavo. Featuring the proprietary avocado compound Avocatin B, also known as AvoB, Metavo Advanced Glucose Metabolism Support activates your metabolism naturally at the cellular level.

“Having a flexible metabolism at the cellular level enables the body to properly metabolize fats, proteins and carbs to help improve insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance and energy,” says Dr. Spagnuolo, whose research led to the development of Metavo.

The brand also carries Metavo Advanced Weight Support, a supplement featuring clinically proven ingredients that help burn fat, support weight loss, and provide increased energy, as well as Metavo Advanced Weight Support Meal Replacement Powders, which are designed to be the perfect “metabolic” meal, with 20 grams of complete protein and whole food vitamins and minerals. These supplements can complement GLP-1, or other medications that treat obesity and diabetes. Plus, there is Metavo Glucose Metabolism Support with Berberine, which targets metabolic inflexibility to increase insulin sensitivity, support healthy glucose metabolism, cardiovascular support and more. To learn more, visit www.metavo.com.

When it comes to metabolic health, consistency is key. Make physical activity, healthy eating, proper sleep and the right supplements a regular part of your routine.

-StatePoint

Published February 28, 2024

New Everwell at Bexley offers new option in Land O’ Lakes

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The Spectrum Companies has begun pre-leasing its first multifamily development in Florida, with a 3,500-unit development known as Everwell at Bexley, according to a news release.

Everwell at Bexley is a new multifamily development that is part of the award-winning Bexley master-planned community off State Road 54, in Land O’ Lakes. It offers an array of amenities, a variety of floor plans, easy access to Tampa International Airport and is close to a significant amount of new development in Pasco County. (Courtesy of The Spectrum Companies)

Everwell at Bexley is close to State Road 54 and within easy access to Tampa International Airport. It is part of the award-winning Bexley master-planned community, the release notes.

“We are excited to introduce Everwell at Bexley, which represents a fusion of luxury, outdoor-focused lifestyle and community,” Craig Miller, senior managing director with The Spectrum Companies, said in the release.

Everwell at Bexley will offer floor plans ranging from one-bedroom apartments to townhomes with attached two-car garages.

Standard features include soft-close Shaker-style cabinets, expansive kitchen islands with quartz countertops, frameless glass walk-in showers, and screened patios or balconies. Design options include wraparound porches, built-in desks, unit entry drop zones, private garages and on-site storage options.

“Painstaking attention to detail and intentional sitewide community activation adds up to a remarkable living experience,” said Lane Stewart, director of development, who recently opened a Tampa office for Spectrum. 

To learn more about the development, visit EverwellBexley.com.

Published February 21, 2024

Pasco advances plan for land conservation

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The Pasco County Commission has approved transmitting a proposed land use change for state review to allow the designation of 318 acres in Central Pasco for conservation use.

The property is north of State Road 52, between the Suncoast Parkway and U.S. 41.

It previously was designated for residential and agricultural uses.

The county board approved the transmittal as part of its consent agenda, during the Feb. 6 meeting.

The consent agenda includes a batch of items that are approved in a single motion, unless a commissioner or member of the public requests the item be pulled for discussion.

This property was purchased by the Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program (ELAMP), according to background materials in the board’s agenda packet.

The intent of the land use amendment is to meet the terms of a Florida Communities Trust grant, which will help the county leverage its ELAMP funding.

The grant requires that the long-range plan and the zoning for the site be a category that is dedicated to open space, conservation, or outdoor recreation uses, as appropriate.

The subject property is partially within both the Anclote/Cotee watershed Ecological Planning Unit (EPU) and the Starkey to Crossbar ecological corridor. There are approximately 50 acres of wetlands on the subject property, with the majority being Category 1 wetlands. This property also is adjacent to other acquired ELAMP properties and will result in over 1,800 acres of contiguous conservation land, according to the agenda materials.

Published February 21, 2024

Three-way stop coming to Blanton Road, in East Pasco

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a task order with HNTB Corporation involving the installation of a three-way stop at Blanton Road and Lake Iola Road.

The board approved the task order for $187,317.79 during its Feb. 6 meeting.

The task order covers the design and post design services relating to the three-way stop project.

The Blanton Road and Lake Iola Road intersection currently experiences high crash rates. To enhance safety, the intersection will be realigned, and a three-way stop sign traffic control will be implemented.

The design work covered by the task order will be completed within 270 calendar days.

The projected cost for the improvement is slightly more than $3 million, with a portion of that amount planned in fiscal year 2024 and the remainder in fiscal year 2025, according to background materials in the county board’s Feb. 6 agenda packet.

Published February 21, 2024

Take steps to conserve energy, reduce utility bills

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(Stock photo)

While customers can’t control the rates that utilities charge, they can take steps to conserve their use of energy, thereby reducing their costs.

Here are some suggestions from Duke Energy that can help you to conserve energy:

  • When heating or cooling your house, remember the smaller the difference between indoor and outdoor temperatures, the lower your energy usage and bills.
  • Change air filters regularly. A dirty air filter makes your system work harder, which consumes more energy and increases costs.
  • Have your system checked regularly by a qualified heating and air conditioning contractor to maintain efficiency and peak performance.
  • Leave your drapes or blinds open on sunny winter days, to allow the sun to help warm your home; close them on hot days and at night, to help insulate your home.
  • Check your windows, doors and vents for air leaks. Caulking, sealing and weatherstripping can save between 10% and 20% in heating costs.
  • Replace standard light bulbs with light-emitting diodes (LEDs). LEDs are more efficient than regular light bulbs and provide the same amount of light. Replacing just six regular light bulbs with LEDs can save up to $480 over the life of the bulbs.
  • Operate ceiling fans in a clockwise direction in the winter to push warm air back down into the room; operate them in a counterclockwise direction during hotter weather. Most fans have a switch that allows you to reverse the motor. Turn off fans when you are not in the room.
  • Manage your water heating. Set the water heater at 120 degrees or less. Water heating is typically the second-biggest user of energy in your home.

Published February 21, 2024

Pasco proceeds in extending Ridge Road to U.S. 41

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The Pasco County Commission has awarded a bid to Cone & Graham for work to extend Ridge Road from Sunlake Boulevard to U.S. 41.

This phase of the project has been in the county’s plan for years.

The contract, with a not-to-exceed amount of $85 million, includes a new four-lane road, with a 24-inch water main and a 20-inch reclaimed water main.

In approving the contract during its Feb. 6 meeting, the county board also authorized County Administrator Mike Carballa to execute any amendments or related documents associated with the design-build contract.

Bids for the work were opened on Dec. 19. Two responsive bids were received, including one from a vendor in Pasco County, according to materials in the county board’s Feb. 6 agenda packet.

But because state funding is being used to partially fund the project, no local preference was applied in awarding the bid.

The two responses received were from Cone & Graham and Ajax/Leware Joint Venture II. Cone & Graham received the highest scores from an evaluation committee.

Besides the four-lane divided roadway, the project includes a 5-foot sidewalk, a 12-foot multi-use pathway, and 5-foot bike lanes; a new bridge over the CSX railway; and the water and reclaimed water lines.

The estimated cost for the roadway components is $61 million and the estimated cost for the other components is $24 million.

Completion of at least two lanes of the project is required by the end of December 2025, under an economic incentives agreement previously signed by the county.

Published February 21, 2024