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Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Land O' Lakes News

Pasco to open K-8 school in fall 2021

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The groundbreaking last week for Starkey Ranch K-8 School was celebrated in grand fashion —  at a gathering that included a high school jazz band and color guard, preschoolers, a private developer partner, elected leaders and government officials.

The school is the second phase of a partnership between Pasco County Schools, Pasco County government and Wheelock Communities, the private developers of Starkey Ranch, a community off State Road 54 in Trinity.

Members of the Pasco County School Board join top district staff in a ceremonial groundbreaking for the Starkey Ranch K-8 School. (B.C. Manion)

One part of the project is the Starkey District Park, which opened its first phase in November 2017. Two additional phases are planned for the park.

Starkey Ranch K-8 School, located near the district park, is the public school district’s first school specifically designed for elementary and middle school students.

It is expected to open in August 2021, with about 1,000 elementary school students and 600 middle school students.

The school campus includes a gymnasium, athletic fields, a running track and sports courts that will be available during non-school hours to residents, through a shared-use agreement.

Additionally, there’s a third part of the partnership that involves construction of what’s been dubbed TLC, which stands for theater, library and cultural center.

Matt Call, project director for Starkey Ranch, talked about the collaborative attitude the partners have shared.

“It began as an idea to work together to create something great,” Call said.

The approach that’s been used, he said, “is something that we sometimes feel is missing in society today — just the idea of putting aside our own differences and our own desires, and really coming together and working to do something.”

His enthusiasm for the partnership was shared by Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning.

“We have looked forward to this day for a very, very long time,” Browning told the crowd.

The joint efforts will yield a community asset, he said.

“These amenities add, not only to Starkey Ranch, but also to Pasco County as a whole,” Browning said.

This is what the Starkey Ranch K-8 School campus will look like. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

And, because the facilities will be shared — instead of being duplicated, Browning said, “the taxpayers are winners on this project.”

The superintendent added: “We want it to be a community place. We want it to be a place where people come and gather, and socialize and learn.”

Pasco County Commissioner Mike Wells noted that “from the county standpoint, the last time we built a library, my father was a county commissioner. That was in 1982.

“This is a very, very exciting day. The TLC is the first of its kind in Pasco County.”

The center will accommodate public library patrons and students. It also will have a 250-seat theater and three maker spaces.

Like the other speakers, Wells praised the cooperative arrangement to pursue these facilities.

“It’s not very often that we all come together to do things,” Wells said, noting that government agencies have a tendency to operate in silos.

Commissioner Kathryn Starkey, a former school board member, said she hopes that Starkey Ranch K-8 School is so successful that the school district will build more in the future.

“I’m so excited for the residents that live here and for all of those lucky kids who are going to be able to experience this kind of school,” Starkey said.

She also talked about the TLC.

“We have worked really hard to make this facility different than the normal facility. We’re going to have outdoor space, where you can have cocktail parties,” she said.

She expressed gratitude that both the school board and the Pasco County Commission put in some extra money to make the TLC “exactly what we wanted.”

School board chairwoman Alison Crumbley said the project is exciting because of what the school will offer for students. She’s also pleased by the presence of the theater and cultural center because she’s a proponent of the arts.

Browning said the K-8 model will provide “opportunities for middle-schoolers to mentor elementary school kids, which is a great, great thing for us.”

No decision has been made yet on the boundaries for the new school, said Chris Williams, director of planning for the school district.

Beyond assigning students from Starkey Ranch to the school, various options are being discussed, including the possibility of a magnet school to fill the remaining spots, he said.

The school construction budget is $44.4 million.

Published September 11, 2019

Ridge Road Extension granted modifications, added funds

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a revision to the Ridge Road Extension project – to provide additional funding and services connected to the project.

The board approved a change order on Aug. 6 to pay for post-design assistance from the project engineer, and to analyze possible impacts to gopher tortoises.

The county also is allocating an additional $1.4 million toward the first phase of construction, which extends Ridge Road from Moon Lake Road in New Port Richey east to Suncoast Parkway. Phase one also includes modifications to the Parkway Interchange.

Plans are still underway to extend Ridge Road beyond its intersection with Moon Lake Road to U.S. 41. The new corridor will create a new east-west connection for motorists. (Brian Fernandes)

The second phase of the project extends Ridge Road from the Suncoast Parkway to U.S. 41 in Land O’ Lakes. That has not yet been funded for design or construction.

The revision approved in the change order requires that during the post-design phase, the engineer oversees any issues that arise with the construction plans or its documentation, while keeping the county informed of these matters.

The engineer also will be responsible for the project’s computer-aided design and drafting files. This software is vital to the construction phase and may be subject to changes, per county request.

The engineer also must address any changed conditions to construction in a “timely manner” and review changes proposed by the contractor, according to the county.

The change order also includes the surveying, permitting and possible relocation of gopher tortoises.

“The tortoises that are identified to be within the construction area, including those within the (Starkey Wilderness) Preserve, will be relocated based on guidance from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission,” said Sam Beneck, Pasco County project manager. “The tortoises must be relocated to an approved relocation site.”

These animals are protected by law and this process is usually included in the construction contract.

But, in an effort to accelerate the timetable for completing the extension, the process will be handled by the project’s design and permitting team.

However, the tortoises cannot be relocated until a permit has been obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Construction cannot commence, either, without clearance from the Army Corps.

“The funding has not been the holdup for the project,” Beneck explained. “It’s really been the permitting issues.”

Pasco County and the Army Corps have been trying to reach an agreement for years.

Various options have been considered and the one that has been selected calls for partially elevating the Ridge Road Extension, as well as adding 16 bridges, curbs, guardrails and fencing to protect wildlife.

Beneck estimated that these measures will reduce impacts by nearly 83 percent to the wetlands in the Serenova Tract of Starkey Wilderness Preserve.

Environmentalists have battled the road extension, citing the negative impacts it will have on the Serenova Tract.

The current design shows a two-lane road opening from Moon Lake Road to the Suncoast Parkway before the 2021 hurricane season.

The road would be expanded to four lanes the following year, and possibly to six lanes in the future, Beneck said.

When the Army Corps issues its permit for the project, it will be for both phases of the extension, Beneck said.

Published September 11, 2019

Central Pasco project calls for 280 Class A apartments

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The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of a project that includes 280 apartments and 49,500 square feet of commercial, on the north side of State Road 54, between Wesley Chapel Boulevard and Collier Parkway.

The site, approximately 25.4 acres, is about 2 miles west of the interchange of State Road 56 and Interstate 75.

The request received a recommendation for approval by county planners.

Attorney Clarke Hobby represents the A.G. Spanos Companies and the Aiken Trust.

“I’m very excited to be representing the Spanos Corporation,” Hobby told planning commissioners.

“My client tells me that they intend on building the nicest multifamily community that’s been built in Pasco County. It’s a very substantial company that’s built over 100,000 multifamily apartments. They’re all Class A around the United States for over 50 years.

“I feel it’s going to be a quality project, with quality people involved,” Hobby said.

The main access to the site would be from the intersection of State Road 54 and Oak Grove Boulevard, an existing signalized intersection.

The commercial portion of the request would be developed near the front of the property, to take advantage of the signalized intersection, Hobby said.

Hobby also noted that the applicant is seeking, In a separate action, an amendment to the county’s comprehensive plan, and the Pasco County Commission unanimously voted to forward that request to the state for review.

Such reviews are a standard part of the plan amendment process.

Hobby said his client wants to be a good neighbor.

“We realized there are about 10 or 12 houses that are adjacent to where the multifamily area will be back here, but we agreed to a 75-foot setback from our property boundary that effectively will create a 90- to a 100-foot setback from any home in here,” the attorney said.

“Additionally, this whole area already has mature oak trees on their side, and we’ll be planting  a large buffer on our end,” he said.

Karen Mason, who lives on Foggy Bottom Parkway told planning commissioners that she wasn’t there to speak for or against the request. However, she did note that within a 1-mile radius of the Twin Lakes community there are 1,659 apartment units of 1-, 2- and 3-bedrooms.

“That’s within a 1-mile radius. You don’t have to travel much further to find many more. We’re not privy to the number of entitlements approved for that area,” she said. At the same time, however, Mason said she believes the Spanos Companies will build a quality project.

John Pavka, who has lived in the community for 25 years, said he lives within 400 feet of where the apartments will be built. He opposes the project.

“If you approve this and this thing goes through, my neighborhood is going to take a hit,” Pavka said.

Planning Commissioner Peter Hanzel asked if there could be negative consequences if the apartment market becomes overbuilt, and the economy cools.

Hobby responded: “I do not believe we are overbuilt or over-planned on multifamily units, now.

“We commissioned a firm to do a market study and they showed the penetration rates, even with the ones coming online, they’re all leasing up.”

He also said his client wouldn’t invest in a project that’s in the ballpark of $60 million if there was uncertainty the market could sustain it.

Planning Commissioner Michael Cox supported the request, making a motion for its approval.

“I’m a big believer of the capital markets. What’s being built is what’s being demanded.

“Recessions are normal. We go through them periodically. It’s part of the business cycle,” he said.

Cox said the project is clearly in keeping with the intent of the county’s comprehensive plan.

Planning commissioners voted to recommend approval to the Pasco County Commission, which is scheduled to consider it at a public hearing on Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m., in the board room at the West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive in New Port Richey.

Published September 11, 2019

Celebrating a decade of helping mothers-to-be

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When Peter Castellani lost his corporate position at IBM, little did he know that his journey would lead him to open a safe haven for expecting mothers.

Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers is that organization, providing women with free services, including pregnancy testing and baby supplies.

Cherisse Rivera is director of Oasis Pregnancy Care Center’s Land O’ Lakes branch. Here, she’s shuffling through baby attire in the Baby Boutique room – where mothers can pick out needed items. (Brian Fernandes)

This year marks the nonprofit’s 10th anniversary in serving Tampa Bay, and it wants the community to join the celebration.

To commemorate its decade of operations, the agency is hosting a fundraiser at Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, on Sept. 19.

The pregnancy care organization may be celebrating a milestone anniversary, but Castellani was an advocate for prenatal assistance long before Oasis opened on Oct. 1, 2009.

“I’ve been involved in the pregnancy care center movement for 20 years,” the executive director said.

He and his wife, Ellen, were church liaisons who were actively involved with Walk for Life and other pro-life organizations back in New York.

When the couple moved to Florida in 1999, they continued their support at A Woman’s Place Medical Clinic, where Castellani served on the board.

Then, he began serving the Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills, eventually becoming president.

When Castellani was laid off after a 30-year career at IBM, it seemed like a sudden shift for the worst — until he realized it was an opportunity to expand his ministry.

He distinctly recalls that several days after his layoff, while still reeling with grief, he awoke to experience what he describes as a clear directive from God.

His new objective became a quest to build a pregnancy center in Land O’ Lakes, close to the high schools.

“Tears just started running down my face, because I never had a direct vision like that before,” said Castellani, who is Christian.

Coincidentally — or maybe not — the first Oasis branch opened nine months later, in Land O’ Lakes.

The center was opened with the support of Pastor Elbert Nasworthy, his Myrtle Lake Baptist Church and the community, Castellani said.

David Dorsey, left, Peter Castellani, April Beck, Cherisse Rivera and Helen Rairigh are among staff and volunteers who operate Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers. The nonprofit organization strives to help women as they transition into motherhood.

Now, Oasis has locations in Wesley Chapel and Tampa. It has 15 staff members and over 80 volunteers.

It also has helped thousands of families through the years, including 450 during the first seven months of this year, according to Castellani.

He attributes the organization’s success to its cohesive work team, that is both business- and ministry-oriented.

The women who come to the centers can receive various types of assistance. The information they provide remains confidential.

They can undergo testing to confirm if they’re pregnant.

Ultrasound screenings are available to let expecting mothers check on their baby’s status.

Counseling sessions are available, too.

The women and their partners also can watch educational videos that provide pointers on parenting techniques.

Dealing with an unplanned pregnancy can be difficult for many women.

“You have women that come in and they are totally devastated,” Castellani said. “Counseling with them for a couple hours, you see a miraculous change. They leave here with hope and a future.”

Oasis’ services are provided for free.

Although, as women continue receiving Oasis services, they are granted coupons, which they can exchange for supplies in the Baby Boutique room. This transaction encourages the women to remain in the program.

Castellani reasoned: “It gives them dignity and respect. Even though it’s free, they’re earning it. It’s not just a hand-away.”

At the Baby Boutique, an array of items can be found, such as diapers, maternity and infant clothing, and portable baby seats – to name a few.

Oasis is able to provide its services and provide giveaways because of funding it receives from local churches, businesses and the state.

The organization also hosts three annual fundraisers: a clay shoot event, a golf tournament and a banquet.

As a Christian, nondenominational establishment, Oasis encourages mothers to see their pregnancies through to birth. They also refer them to local churches as  additional support networks.

The organization helps mothers from various age groups, too.

Castellani dispelled a common stereotype: “It’s not always teenagers – that’s only about 20 percent. Most of our women that come in are college and career-aged women.”

And, for those who may face financial difficulties, Oasis helps them sign up for government assistance, such as the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program and Medicaid.

One of Oasis’ future endeavors is to bring more education to Pasco County schools, encouraging students to remain abstinent until marriage.

The fundraising celebration at Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., will help propel these initiatives forward.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by live performances, catered food by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and guest speaker RV Brown.

While there are no costs to attend the event, the organization is encouraging those present, to offer a generous donation to support the cause.

Those planning to attend are asked to R.S.V.P at bit.ly/OasisCelebration2019.

To volunteer or donate to Oasis, visit HeartsForOasis.org.

For additional information or services about Oasis, call (813) 406-4965, or visit OasisPregnancyCenter.org.

Oasis 10th anniversary fundraiser
Where: Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., in Lutz
When: Sept. 19; doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: To celebrate 10 years of service, Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers will host a fundraising event with radio personality Mason Dixon as the emcee. Evangelist RV Brown will be the night’s guest speaker and attendees can enjoy a dish catered by Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
Info: Attendees are encouraged to RSVP online at bit.ly/OasisCelebration2019. Online donations can be sent through HeartsForOasis.org, and for further information, call (813) 406-4965.

Published September 11, 2019

Sticky fun is popping up everywhere

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While some may see bubbles as just soapy pockets of air, Blaise Ryndes uses them to bring smiles to faces nationwide.

With his Spheres Bubble Show, the Land O’ Lakes resident creates unique bubble performances.

Bubble performer Blaise Ryndes, of Land O’ Lakes, opens his recent ‘Spheres’ show at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, with a massive amount of bubbles. (Christine Holtzman)

He is a solo entertainer, but his parents, Dave and Nadine, accompany him at each show.

“I like to consider my act to be a fusion of art, science and magic,” the 18-year-old said.

Just like many kids, he had an affinity for magic and balloon animals growing up.

But, at age 9, he decided he wanted to become a performer — not just a spectator.

His dad bought him his first magic kit, and he began learning how to master tricks. He also found creative ways to contort balloons into various shapes.

As he recalled: “I was always really shy as a child. I noticed when I got into magic, that when I would start to perform for other people, I came out of my shell a little bit. It gave me confidence.”

He drew inspiration from the Cirque du Soleil entertainers and the Blue Man Group.

One day, his dad showed him a YouTube video of the bubble performer, Tom Noddy.

Bubble performer and Land O’ Lakes native Blaise Ryndes releases a bubble infused with helium and the smoke from a mini fogger.

After watching Noddy’s act, Blaise was inspired to learn about bubbles himself.

Acquiring skills took much trial and error, but he said his persistence allowed him to create his own bubble techniques.

Blaise was attending Countryside Montessori Charter School, while performing shows.

As he gained notoriety, he took Pasco eSchool online courses during high school.

Over the years, he has performed at birthday parties and sports arenas, while being invited to venues in Massachusetts and Texas.

Locally, he has done shows at the Lutz Preparatory School, Glazer Children’s Museum and Great Explorations Children’s Museum, to name a few.

At 16, he was selected to perform his bubble act on the television series, America’s Got Talent, which exposed him to the nation.

Chosen as volunteers from the audience, identical 5-year-old twins Annika Johnson, of Odessa, left, and her sister, Kaitlyn, stand still, as Blaise Ryndes covers them inside a giant bubble.

“They flew me out to Los Angeles, California,” Blaise recounted. “I did my show, the judges loved it. It was really a great experience.”

“Blaise is a rock star in the bubble world,” his dad said. “He’ll probably do close to 200 shows this year.”

One of those events was at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Aug. 10. There, the Children’s Room was packed with parents and kids alike.

The crowd watched in awe as Blaise inflated a large bubble illuminated by an LED-lit platform, then used a straw to blow wind ripples inside the bubble.

During the “UFO,” he used a special device to blow smoke into the bottom of a bubble, forcing it to move upward into a saucer shape.

The audience continued to erupt in cheers as he performed the “Galaxy” — using a straw to create a big bubble, which he filled with smaller bubbles inside, spinning like planets.

One part of his act had the crowd counting down before he gently released a vertical chain of bubbles into the air, like a rocket.

After doing a trick, performer Blaise Ryndes catches a giant bubble on his face, before popping it.

In another, a rectangular frame held a film of glossy bubble liquid. Blaise poked an opening in the film using a thin, knotted string and formed a bubble on the audience’s side. He then slowly pulled back the string with the bubble fully intact on his end.

Some kids had the chance to become a part of the show. One by one, each became immersed in a bubble wall, as Blaise lifted a hoop, surrounding them.

The library function was the first time Blaise incorporated new props to a show, such as fire and laser beams.

He enjoys entertaining at these venues, but also performs in places where sad children need a smile.

During the finale of his recent show at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, bubble performer Blaise Ryndes cuts a perfect circle through his ‘wall of bubbles,’ and then stretches his arm through it.

“Out of all the shows I do, by far, the shows that are the most rewarding are charitable performances,” Blaise said.

He has put on shows for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, Children’s Cancer Center and Best Buddies International.

His dad couldn’t hold back tears as he recalled the joy Blaise brought to the kids at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in Saint Petersburg.

“It feels so good to help make their lives a little better,” Blaise said. “Even if it’s just one second that you can take their mind away from all the negative things that they’re having to deal with, and just have a cool experience. That’s the reason I do this.”

He also noted that while he’s a star, Spheres Bubble Show really is a family business, and he’s happy to have his parents supporting him every step of the way.

For more information, or inquiries for the Spheres Bubble Show, visit SpheresBubbleAndMagicShow.com.

Published September 04, 2019

Electronic Arts encourages girl coders to ‘Get in the Game’

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When Madeline Murch headed off for summer camp in late July, she had high expectations.

After all, the Sunlake High student was one of just 15 young women selected to take part in a summer program presented by Electronic Arts Inc., a global interactive entertainment company.

“Going into the experience, I had really high hopes for it,” said Murch, one of 57 applicants for the program. “It was just everything I hoped for, and more.”

Pasco eSchool’s Madeline Murch of shows off her MoCap avatar during ‘Get in the Game,’ a summer program for local high school girls that explored the applications of STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) in video game development. (Courtesy of Electronic Arts/ Carol Berru-Linsenmayer)

The young woman from Land O’ Lakes said she’s been interested in computers and gaming from a young age, and both her mom and her uncle know how to code.

She learned about EA’s “Get in the Game” summer camp from her computer science teacher, Lea Weber, who sent the link to her.

Madeline decided to apply for the week-long camp that took place at the EA Tiburon studio, in Maitland.

Since the campus doesn’t have housing, it wasn’t clear if  Madeline would be able to go.

But, her mom, Renee, stepped up — taking her to the camp. They stayed in an area hotel.

“I just really thought it was a great opportunity that we couldn’t pass up,” Renee said. “It seemed like she’s always had an affinity for coding and gaming. I thought if she saw what went on at the studio, she might really like it and want to pursue that.”

Besides, Renee added, “they’re (EA) leaders in video game development. So, there’s no better place to start than there.”

EA, based in California, is a global leader in digital interactive entertainment. The company develops and delivers games, content and online services for Internet-connected consoles, mobile devices and personal computers. It has more 300 million registered players around the world.

Madeline said a typical day at “Get in the Game” camp would include presentations and hands-on work.

The presentations were interesting and informative, she said.

“They were all on totally different topics, which was cool. We got to see every single aspect of the video games,” the 16-year-old said.

“During the second half of the day, we actually were working on developing a game while we were there. So, we broke into small groups, and we had a couple of software engineers who would help us every day.

“Some days, we did more interactive things,” she said.

For example, Madeline said she saw technology used to make realistic 3D renderings of people’s faces.

“We got to play around with some of their motion capture technology,” she added.

And, one of the artists they met, who gave a presentation on story-telling, had actually worked at Pixar and Disney Animation, she said.

The week was enjoyable and inspiring, Madeline said. “I definitely think that I want to continue learning how to code, and I want to pick up another coding language.

“I think that after this week at EA, I’d like to maybe be a software engineer,” she added.

Reducing the gender gap
Encouraging more young women to consider careers in the technology sector is precisely the point of the week-long summer camp, according to Daryl Holt, vice president and group chief operating officer of EA SPORTS Worldwide Studios.

Holt came up with the idea for the camp, which began last year with 10 participants and expanded this year to 15 young women.

Fifteen female coders from local high schools showcase their ‘golden tickets’ guaranteeing them an internship interview with Electronic Arts (EA) while pursuing STEAM subjects in college. Also shown are Daryl Holt, vice president and group chief operating officer of EA SPORTS Worldwide Studios (far right), and Seth Reichelson, computer science teacher at Lake Brantley High School and ‘Get in the Game’ coding instructor (far left).

Madeline was the only participant from Pasco County.

Holt explained the motivation for creating the camp.

“We were seeing a lack of gender diversity in those fields. That’s no secret,” he said.

“We’ve got to solve the supply problem,” he said.

The tech sector can’t rely on going into elementary and middle schools and giving a talk that might light a flame — to inspire young girls to pursue careers in these fields, he said.

“We’re not trying to ignite a spark, we’re trying to fan a flame,” Holt said.

The program was designed for “young women who already had some exposure to coding,” he said.

Applicants had to submit a teacher recommendation and an essay, explaining why they were interested in the camp.

The essays played a big role in the selection process, he said.

For instance, an essay writer might say something like: “I’m truly interested in this, and one of the things holding me back is that I don’t have access to a computer. I have to go to the library to do it (coding),” he said.

Holt’s reaction? “Wow, here’s someone that is taking the extra step to do what they are passionate about and the way they’re having to do go about doing it, is certainly a demonstration of their dedication to it.

“Not only can we fan that flame, we might be able to make it easier for them.”

The camp aims to educate, entertain and energize the young women, Holt said.

“Whether it’s at EA, or some other technology-based company, we want them to go on and do great things,” he said. “We want them to plan and we want them to train, but we also want them to dream and believe — because that combination is what will truly take them to the next level,” Holt said.

While at the camp, the young women work with mentors and they’re invited to stay in touch with them after they leave.

They also can earn the right to interview for an internship, and they get to take the laptop they’ve been working on home with them, Holt said.

“Our expectation is that they have it in their power to do this, to follow their dreams in an educational pursuit. And then, we’ll be talking to them later about an internship that hopefully leads to a career,” Holt said.

Computer and video game industry facts

  • 90% of parents pay attention to the game their child plays
  • 75% of Americans have at least one gamer in their household
  • 63% of gamers play with others
  • 56% of gamers have a creative hobby (singing, writing, etc.)
  • 32% of gamers play a musical instrument

Source: The Entertainment Software Association

Published August 28, 2019

‘Clear the Shelters’ is a howling success

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Hundreds attended the ‘Clear the Shelters’ event on Aug. 17 at the Pasco County Animal Services complex, 19640 Dogpatch Lane in Land O’ Lakes.

Josh Naaman, of Largo, left, and his wife, Hande, bond with Piper, their new dog. Once they laid eyes on the mixed-breed pup, the couple knew they need not look further. It was love at first sight. (Christine Holtzman)

The event, launched five years ago by the television media company NBC Universal, is a national pet adoption drive that aims to find forever homes for thousands of animals in need.

Participating shelters nationwide either reduced or waived pet adoption fees.

The Land O’ Lakes shelter, waived its fees for the third year in a row. The only requirement was the purchase of the appropriate licensing for the new adoption.

Normally, adoption fees run $70 to $85 for dogs and $40 to $50 for cats. The fees include spay/neutering, vaccinations, microchip, heartworm testing for dogs, FIV and feline leukemia for cats.

Dianna Strauss, of Land O’ Lakes, a volunteer with Pasco County Animal Services, gives Letty, a large, female mixed-breed dog, a treat. Strauss shares her feelings about the pooch, describing her as a very sweet, and gentle dog.

Spencer Conover, the assistant director for Pasco County Animal Services estimated that around 500 people would attend the event, looking for a new companion.

In just the first two hours of the event, 13 dogs and 7 cats were officially adopted.

By the time the event wrapped up, there were 41 adoptions and 37 pending adoptions, according to Animal Services’ Facebook page.

Leading up to the event, veterinarians, staff and volunteers worked diligently to make sure that many of the 254 available animals were ready to go to their new homes on the same day of their adoptions.

Thirteen-year-old Courtney Woods, of Hudson, cuddles a small black kitten that she will name Astro, once he is officially adopted. Along with her mother, Jody, Woods attended the event with her sister, Allie, and her friend, J.J. Algarin.

Those that had not underwent the necessary spay/neuter or microchip procedure, will be placed on a short adoption hold (typically less than a week), until the requirements are met.

Strays, whether they are runaways or abandoned, make up the largest population of animals in the shelter.

Conover said the biggest challenge lies in the lack of microchipping, which is crucial in helping lost pets find their way home.

A very low percentage of the pets they see have been microchipped, he said.

Animals they adopt out are microchipped.

For more about ‘Clear the Shelters,’ visit ClearTheShelters.com.

Published August 28, 2019

Officially adopted and heading to his new home, Blue, a male mixed-breed dog, cannot contain his excitement, as he jumps and licks Frank Izquierdo. He and his girlfriend, Anna Chiacchio, of Lutz, left, are first-time pet owners. They were equally ecstatic to make their new buddy a part of their family.
Lucia Patterson, of New Port Richey, holds Mia, her Teacup Yorkie, as she leans in to greet one of the several dogs up for adoption. Lucia, and her husband Ross, were at the event looking to find another companion.
Nicole Whitley, of Lutz, stretches out to pat Anastasia, an active 3-year-old gray cat, as her 12-year-old son, Tovyah Whitley Jr., looks on. The pair was at the event looking at dogs, but warmed up to the idea of adopting a cat, once they visited with Anastasia.
Petey, a large mixed-breed dog, greets visitors outside the Pasco County Animal Services building during the ‘Clear the Shelters’ event. He was picked up as a stray several months ago, making him a long-time resident at the shelter. Volunteer Rhonda Revels describes him as being good-tempered and loveable, and good with kids. He’s not so wild about cats and little dogs.
A curious, mixed-breed female dog peeks out of her cage, as a crowd of people walk by.

Changes recommended for Connerton’s master-plan development

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The Pasco County Planning Commission has recommended approval of changes to the Connerton Village II Master Planned Unit Development to adjust the boundaries for the regional park and elementary/middle school, and to remove the extension of the Plains Parkway north of Connerton Boulevard.

These changes are based on a land swap between Lennar Homes LLC, the Pasco County School Board and Pasco County.

The applicant also proposes to add an additional neighborhood encompassing 268 acres, adding 225 single-family units from the remaining Phase I entitlements. The changes also call for updating the Connerton Village II internal access points to reflect the pending development.

The county’s planning staff recommended approval of the changes, which they said are consistent with the previously approved land swap.

No one from the public spoke for or against the proposed changes, during the Planning Commission’s Aug. 22 public hearing on the request.

In backup materials provided to the planning commission, the county’s planners noted that the previously proposed extension of Pleasant Plains Parkway north of Connerton Boulevard would “bifurcate the new district park site and frustrate the basic purpose.”

Planners also noted that “the additional 225 units are being drawn from the remaining Phase 1 residential entitlements approved for the Development of Regional Impact. With the additional 225 units, the total aggregate units in Village II increases from 1,704 to 1,929.

The property is on the east and west sides of Flourish Drive, and the north and south sides of Connerton Boulevard.

The request is slated for public hearing before the Pasco County Commission on Sept. 18, 2019, at 1:30 p.m., in the board’s chambers at the West Pasco Government Center, at 8731 Citizens Drive in New Port Richey.

Published August 28, 2019

Local teen’s rare disease sparks legislation

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After more than three years of fighting for their medical coverage for their son’s rare disease, a Land O’ Lakes family has seen some progress in their quest.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Patient Saving Act on June 12, which includes language requiring the state insurance plan to provide enteral formula coverage, regardless of age, condition or intake method.

Stephanie Walls, whose son Remington suffers from Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), called the legislative victory “absolutely amazing.”

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the Patient Saving Act in June. Included is language requiring the state insurance plan to provide enteral formula coverage, regardless of age, condition or intake method. Stephanie and Remington Walls stand on the far right. (Courtesy of Stephanie Walls)

The rare EoE disease, which is incurable, causes food to deteriorate in his esophagus.

Remington, who was diagnosed at age 4, has lived a life without regular food or drink.

His only source of nutrition since then has come via a hypoallergenic amino acid-based liquid formula, called Neocate EO28 Splash. He consumes roughly 18 to 22 of the eight-ounce juice boxes per day.

Through it all, 19-year-old Remington has never let his life-threatening food allergy disease block him from pursuing his goals.

He is a former varsity baseball standout at Land O’ Lakes High School.

He’s a published author, and he has earned a volunteer assistant/team manager position at Valdosta State University’s Division I baseball program.

In 2016, his family learned that its insurance no longer covered the liquid formula required for sustenance. Without the insurance, the formula costs about $26,000 per year, Stephanie said.

The alternative was a feeding tube. But, with Remington’s active lifestyle, that was never an option, the family says.

So, Remington and his mom have been pushing for state and federal legislation for enteral formula coverage for medical nutrition — sharing their story with lawmakers and anyone who would listen.

The new law only impacts state employees, but still it is a move in the right direction and will help families like theirs who are struggling, Stephanie says.

“This is just a baby step, to the bigger steps that are going to be taken,” added Stephanie, an eighth grade language arts teacher at Cypress Creek Middle High School in Wesley Chapel.

“We’re still trying to get federal legislation,” she said. “It has to be broader. It has to have a wider span.”

Remington agrees with his mom: “Our goal is to get federal legislation passed, but it’s just a work in progress. We just take it one day, one step at a time.”

He added, “Honestly, our whole goal going into this was, whether it benefits us or not, we want to make a difference. We just knew that if this is happening to us, then it’s happening to other families.”

Getting help and helping others
At the state level, the Walls’ cause was picked during the legislative process by Sen. Kelli Stargel, a Republican from Lakeland, and Rep. Ardian Zika, a Republican from Land O’ Lakes. They sponsored enteral formula legislation, which ultimately led to an amendment to the state health bill.

As it stands now, “it only covers state employees,” Zika said. “My goal is I hope to see federal legislation addressing this issue .. .so we have comprehensive coverage for such a condition.”

He went on, “For me, this was an opportunity to be a voice for the voiceless. When I reflect back on my public service, this is going to be one of the highlights for me.”

Zika learned of Walls’ story before his election in 2018 to represent District 37 in the Florida House of Representatives.

“It was really heartbreaking,” Zika said. “I said, ‘Wow, this is something that I would be very passionate about because it’s life-changing for individuals.’”

The freshman lawmaker added, “Remington has overcome so much adversity. No one should go through what they’ve (the Walls) gone through. I’m just happy to be at the intersection in their life and do my part, but there’s much more work to be done.”

Remington and Stephanie addressed several committees in Tallahassee along the way, including the Senate Banking and Insurance Committee, House Market Reform Subcommittee and Government Oversight Committee.

Stephanie acknowledged the work was tiresome, but she said it also was empowering to be a voice for other families who are in the same boat.

“Our belief and our philosophy has always been that we need to help the people that come behind us,” she said. “Regular, everyday people can make a difference, but people have to understand that. It’s just about everybody making that difference.”

Seeing her son pick up the cause made the efforts all the more worthwhile, too.

Stephanie put it like this: “It is so rare to find an 18-year-old, at the time, meeting with legislators. He knew in his heart that this was the right thing that he needed to be doing. A lot of it he was kind of thrust into it, but he chose to continue.”

In November, Remington and Stephanie co-wrote “Homeplate: A True Story of Resilience,” a 118-page book that delves into a foodless life and insights on coping with a rare esophageal disease.

The project gained momentum to the point where Remington and Stephanie were called to speak at multiple events, including the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED) Conference in Washington D.C. The Walls also presented to over 200 athletes at an Atlanta-based event organized by ACES Nation and All-In FC (Futbol Club) at Sugar Hill.

Meanwhile, Remington has big plans ahead. The college sophomore plans to try out for the Valdosta State baseball team this fall. He’s also studying communications as he considers a career in public speaking.

He hopes his story can inspire others facing similar challenges.

Determination is important, according to Remington.

“If you set your mind to it, you can do it. The only person that can stop you is you,” he said.

Published August 21, 2019

Health and Wellness Fair focuses on the elderly

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A free community Health and Wellness Fair, held recently in Land O’ Lakes,  focused on services that are available to the elderly, as they face changes in mind and body.

The Aug. 1 event was hosted by Keystone Place at Terra Bella, 2200 Livingston Road, which offers residential options for independent living, assisted living and memory care.

Bryan D’Onofrio spoke at the event on behalf of the North Tampa Behavioral Health Hospital. The Wesley Chapel facility serves people who are suffering from issues such as depression, anxiety or substance abuse, by providing in-patient and out-patient services – including a geriatrics unit.

Local organizations in the Tampa Bay area gathered at a Health and Wellness Fair held at Keystone Place at Terra Bella to inform the public about various services available to help the elderly. (Brian Fernandes)

Many of the elderly patients who are admitted are dealing with depression,  D’Onofrio noted.

“As we get older, things don’t work like they used to,” he said. “As those things hit us, we can suffer some depression.”

At the behavioral health hospital, patients engage with a psychiatrist, therapist, social workers and licensed mental-health counselors, to receive the right treatment.

Patients also partake in group therapy to keep social, and recreational therapy, such as board games, yoga and other exercises. They are encouraged to continue activities when released home, to help them stay positive, D’Onofrio said.

Bayada Home Health Care and Bluestone Physician Services also participated in the event.

These companies offer mobile services — providing medical care to residents in assisted living facilities, such as Keystone Place at Terra Bella in Land O’ Lakes.

Tyler Patrick, marketing manager at Bayada, said that the goal of this type of care is to help prevent the need for hospitalizations.

Patrick added that, “If you’ve got a resident that has a disease that’s becoming exacerbated, the doctor may want an RN (registered nurse) checking in on that resident two, three times a week to monitor [and] make sure the medications are working. Our nurses can come in and do that.”

Assisted living facilities also provide a safe and secure environment for those known to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease.

Amanda Wood, a program manager at the Alzheimer’s Association, shared information that help individuals, or their loved ones, identify the disease.

The Alzheimer’s Association, offers this list of 10 early warning signs:

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  • Challenges in planning or solving problems
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  • Confusion with time or place
  • Trouble understanding visual images
  • Difficulty with speaking or writing
  • Misplacing things and difficulty retracing steps
  • Decreased or poor judgement
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities
  • Changes in mood or personality

“One of the best things to do for noticing these signs, is to talk about it,” Wood said. “Go talk to your primary care physician.”

She emphasized the importance of initiating the conversation, whether it’s the individual exhibiting the signs, or a loved one witnessing them.

That person’s doctor can then refer them to a neurologist for further analysis.

An ongoing consistency in these signs may be a red flag that can differentiate them from usual memory loss, Wood said.

When a current or potential Alzheimer’s patient is living at home, it is also important to plan ahead for emergencies.

Teresa Haver, of the Alzheimer’s Family Organization, gave a demonstration on how the Wanderer’s Reunification Program is set up. This personalized kit can be useful in helping locate an Alzheimer’s patient gone missing.

Teresa Haver stood at the Alzheimer’s Family Organization booth and showed visitors one preparation technique – the Wanderer’s Reunification Program.

This is a free kit made up of sterilized equipment used in helping locate a missing patient.

“What you do is take the sterile pad and rub it on your loved one to get their scent, put it in the jar [and] seal it up,” Haver explained.

The jar is then placed on top of the refrigerator and is good for seven years.

Should the person go missing, the local sheriff’s department has already been trained to look for the jar on the fridge. Deputies then use blood hounds to search for the scent on the pad.

Haver also said the caregiver should familiarize themselves with the patient’s dominant hand, because they tend to wander in the direction of that hand.

She also recommended that a caregiver place an identification bracelet on the patient’s wrist and to have door locks that are higher than the patient’s reach.

Wood said there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s, but there are lifestyle choices that may help the brain age well.

Those include exercise, staying socially active, challenging the brain and a proper diet.

“Every time our heart beats, 25 percent of that blood goes to our brain,” Wood explained. “If we’re getting exercise, we’re getting more nutrient and oxygen-rich blood up to our brain.”

Exercise can include such things as walking up stairs and dancing, she noted.

Social activities, such as playing strategic games like chess, can help preoccupy and strengthen the mind, she said.

Mediterranean and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets are good alternatives, Wood noted.

These heart-healthy choices consist of nuts and grains, as well as foods high in protein and low in sodium.

The Rev. Virginia Walsh, of Unity North Tampa Church, also shared her knowledge at the health and wellness fair.

Proper nutrition can help lead to effective meditation practice, Walsh said.

Before doing a meditation session, participants should drink plenty of water.

They also should eat foods rich in protein, and stay clear of foods high in carbohydrates, processed sugar, flour and starches.

Walsh conducted a meditation class during the fair, offering participants tips they could apply at home.

“Meditation can help us think more clearly, be able to focus, and also has shown to often improve memory,” the reverend said. “Being mindful helps us to cope better with what happens in life.”

This in turn, produces more peace and may lead to a healthier brain, she said.

Published August 14, 2019