The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Land O' Lakes News

Two local chambers consider joining forces

By

The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce and the Trinity-Odessa Chamber of Commerce are considering a merger.

An exploratory committee is beginning meetings this week, with an eye toward seeing if combining the two chambers will yield positive results for both chambers and their members, said Elayne Bassinger, president of the Central Pasco Chamber.

Bassinger said the Central Pasco Chamber was approached by the Trinity-Odessa Chamber, with the idea that a merger may be mutually beneficial.

Initially, the chairman of Trinity-Odessa Chamber’s board, Todd Pillars, and its incoming chairman, Mike Kelley, met with Bassinger and Terri Dusek, incoming president for the Central Pasco Chamber.

“When there was an interest in seeing if this would be doable, then the executive board from Trinity-Odessa met with the executive board of Central Pasco Chamber; from there we decided there would be an exploratory committee,” Bassinger said.

The exploratory committee is made up of the four-member executive board of the Central Pasco Chamber and four members of the executive board of the Trinity-Odessa Chamber.

The committee will consider the logistics and benefits of a merger.

If the chambers merged, the single chamber would have about 800 members. Currently, both chambers each have about 400 members.

The larger chamber would provide a stronger voice, enabling it to be a stronger advocate for issues that are important to businesses in the area, Bassinger said.

“Financially, we would be a stronger chamber,” Bassinger added, noting the two chambers could pool their resources.

Businesses who are now members of both chambers would need just a single membership, too, she noted.

“That also frees up our companies to sponsor more because when you’re splitting your advertising dollars between a number of chambers, then you’re more limited in the resources you have to support each of those chambers,” Bassinger said.

While noting a number of benefits, Bassinger emphasized that no decision has been reached yet.

“We really are in the preliminary stages of making sure that it’s good for the members, as well as for the chambers,” she said.

“After doing our due diligence, if a recommendation is that a merger is what we think would be the best for the chambers and the members, then that would be taken to our respective boards for approval,” Bassinger said.

The chambers issued a joint news release that a merger is being considered, to ensure that everyone has accurate information, Bassinger said.

“We were already hearing that we had merged,” Bassinger said. “Yes, we are talking, but in in no way has that been cemented.”

“We hope within 60 days that we would at least have a recommendation,” she said.

If a merger is approved, then “we would like to move as quickly as possible to make that happen and make it as seamless as we can also, for both sides,” she said.

In merging the two organizations, the goal would be to preserve current activities that are important to the individual chamber, Bassinger said.

“We would look at what was important to each chamber, and how we would work that in,” Bassinger said. For instance, Wednesday morning networking at Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que would be preserved because that’s important for Central Pasco Chamber members, she said.

Mike Kelley, the incoming chairman of the Trinity-Odessa Chamber, said his organization is interested in the merger because of all of the growth occurring in the Central Pasco area.

In the news release about the merger talks, Pillars noted: “The strengths of each organization compliment the other and it is believed that one combined organization will be stronger, more effective and more efficient.”

The Trinity-Odessa Chamber organized in 2014.

The Central Pasco Chamber, celebrating its 41st year, is the third-oldest chamber in Pasco County, Bassinger said.

Published May 25, 2016

Rubber ducks create a splashing success

By

The crowd cheered.

The loudspeaker broadcast a quacking-good tune – “Disco, Disco Duck.”

And, with a quick dumping of about 2,000 rubber ducks into Lake Padgett, the flock of ducks floated off, with a push from a high-pressure fire hose squirted into the water.

The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
The rubber ducks, numbered on their underside, were adopted through donations. The owner of the duck that floated to first-place also won a bonus of $2,500. Some 68 prizes were awarded to the first ducks that floated to the finish line, out of a field of more than 2,000.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

Prizes went to donors whose ducks were among the first 68 to hit the finish line. But, the true winners were the community organizations that will receive donations from the Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon.

More than 100 people came to the service club’s Duck Derby on May 21. Held for the first time this year, it is intended to become an annual event.

The all-day affair brought out families that shared shady spots on the lawn behind Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que, off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

They enjoyed live music and dined from a buffet of Hungry Harry’s barbecue, beans, chicken, and macaroni and cheese.

Ducks could be adopted at prices ranging from $5 for a single duck to $100 for a flock of 25.

The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.
The inflatable Rotary International sign is reflected in the sunglasses of Geoff Kranich, a member of the Rotary Club of Trinity. Kranich helped Erin Meyer, president of the Wesley Chapel Rotary, install the inflatable sign at the entrance to the Duck Derby.

Marcey Knight, 16, and Abri Woods, 17, worked at a drink table, taking tickets and handing out cool refreshments.

The Wiregrass Ranch High School students are members of Interact, a school-sponsored club that provides opportunities for community service.

Children bounced in the bouncy house, slid down an inflated slide or played carnival-like games for prizes.

Sales of the rubber ducks, barbecue and drinks went toward community projects, organizations or student scholarships.

“We support a variety of charities every year,” said Erin Meyer, club president.

Local and international projects and groups that receive the club’s donations include Pasco Education Foundation, Everyday Blessings, Farmworkers Self-Help, Habitat for Humanity, Sunrise Women’s Shelter and installation of water filters in third-world countries.

Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.
Jimmy Mason, in the foreground, of the Wesley Chapel Rotary goes after an errant rubber duck that jumped the floating lane during the Duck Derby.

In all, 68 prizes were handed out including a $2,500 grand prize to Brian and Isabelle Dunleavy. Other prizes included a fishing trip for five with a charter boat captain, two nights at Saddlebrook Resort, a $250 certificate for automobile repairs from TWA Firestone, a wine basket, pet grooming, and bowling games from Royal Lanes.

Derby sponsors included Fun Services of Land O’ Lakes, Sam’s Club, Cash 4 Gold, The Laker/Lutz News, and Hungry Harry’s Family Bar-B-Que.

The Wesley Chapel Rotary Club Noon hosts fundraising events annually to aid local community organizations or projects. The duck derby is expected to become a yearly tradition.

“Things like this allow us to have fellowship as a club and also to give back to the community,” said Kelly Mothershead, past president of the club.

Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.
Mike McDonald, of Trinity, was one of the performers at the Duck Derby held behind Hungry Harry’s Bar Family Bar-B-Que on U.S. 41. Held for the first time in Land O’ Lakes, it is expected to be an annual event.

Events like the duck derby create a presence in the community, said Rebecca Smith, chairwoman of the club’s foundation.

“We kind of touch everybody, and the more the merrier,” Smith said.

The Webelos of Cub Scout Pack No. 149 in Wesley Chapel helped build the duck derby course. They practiced their skills in tying square knots to link together the colorful noodles that marked the course’s boundaries.

“It was fun,” said 6-year-old Andrew Holliday.

His family bought a few ducks the day of the race, and enjoyed a picnic lunch.

“We just wanted to see what it was like,” said Brian Holliday, Andrew’s father.

Brother Connor, 5, sat in a lawn chair, with a plate piled high with his favorite food – mac n’ cheese.

At the shoreline, children waded into the lake, splashing and tossing small pebbles into the water. Or, they wandered over to climb inside the cab of the fire truck parked nearby. Pasco County Fire Rescue provided the hose and water to get the duck derby moving along.

At the derby’s finish line, club members plucked the winning ducks from the water and popped them into plastic bags for identification. Each duck had a number printed on its belly.

The disco dance tune “Disco, Disco, Duck” kept the festivities bouncing along.

“Wasn’t that adorable?” said Smith, who is already ready to join in the fun next year.

Published May 25, 2016

Developers have ideas for Gowers Corner

By

An iconic crossroads in the Land O’ Lakes area — known as Gowers Corner — soon could be filling up with shops, offices and restaurants.

Pasco County commissioners approved a land use change on April 26 that clears the way for commercial development on about 44 acres at the southwest corner of the intersection.

“I think this is a great project for Land O’ Lakes,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. “Right now, they don’t have that many amenities in the area.”

State Road 52 and U.S. 41 intersect at a historical crossroads, known as Gowers Corner. Developers are eyeing vacant land at the southwest corner for shops, offices, restaurants and some residential units. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)
State Road 52 and U.S. 41 intersect at a historical crossroads, known as Gowers Corner. Developers are eyeing vacant land at the southwest corner for shops, offices, restaurants and some residential units.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

Currently, the crossroads is sparsely filled out with a Citgo and a Speedway gas station. Large swaths of wooded land and fields behind complete the mostly rural landscape.

But, change is coming.

Developers plan to submit detailed plans for a project with about 215,000 square feet of commercial and office space. Forty residential units are proposed above retail shops, and an undefined water feature is planned as a centerpiece for the commercial center.

Gowers Corner is a landmark — steeped in the history of pioneer settlers and business owners.

According to local historians, the crossroads and surrounding community, took its name from lumberman William Arthur Gower. He migrated from Georgia to Pasco and became supervisor of a sawmill in Fivay.

Gower at one time owned land at all four corners of the intersection. In the 1930s, he operated the first gasoline station and convenience store in the area.

Today, corporate entities of another lumber family – the Tibbetts – are owners of the property now slated for development.

However, the Tibbetts’ project and future roadway construction are raising concerns among some area residents.

Land O’ Lakes’ resident Theodore DeLong said the county needs to address stormwater drainage before any construction is approved.

During the torrential rains of July and August, canals that drain stormwater into Green Lake overflowed. Several homes in the vicinity of Gowers Corner flooded and septic tanks stopped functioning.

“The project itself, I’m not against,” DeLong said. But he added, “We have been having tremendous problems from the lake because of flooding.”

Residents need answers, and a fix to the problem, he said.

There also are concerns about the impact of a proposed project from the Florida Department of Transportation to realign the intersection and add more lanes to the roadways.

County Commissioner Moore assured DeLong that county and state officials are working on the flooding issue.

“We’re wanting to get with SWIFTMUD (Southwest Water Management District) and looking for a possible resolution,” Moore said.

Published May 18, 2016

Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes gains enrollment

By

The Pasco County School Board has approved an enrollment increase for Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes, a charter school on Sunlake Boulevard, across the street from Sunlake High School and Rushe Middle School.

The school was operating at 728 students, but will be able to increase the enrollment to 800 students for the coming school year.

This photo was taken when the seventh-graders from Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes traveled to Tallahassee to take part in the ‘Rally in Tally’ for charter schools. (Courtesy of Imagine School at Land O' Lakes)
This photo was taken when the seventh-graders from Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes traveled to Tallahassee to take part in the ‘Rally in Tally’ for charter schools.
(Courtesy of Imagine School at Land O’ Lakes)

Principal Aimee Williams said the school requested an increase, because it has been operating with a continuous waiting list of 400 to 600 students.

In its backup materials, the school district staff noted that Imagine is a highly performing charter school.

Williams credits the school’s success to two key factors: “Retention of staff and retention of families.”

More than 30 of its staff members have been there for five years or longer, she said.

There’s not much turnover in students, either.

Next year, the school will be graduating its first crop of eighth-graders who have been at the school since kindergarten.

Imagine opened nine years ago in a business park in Ballantrae and moved in January 2012 to what was then a new school building.

The school’s charter was renewed in 2013 for 15 years, extending the charter to 2028.

The school has a STEAM-certified staff.

It received the 2016 Promising Practice Winner by Character Counts and was 2015 runner-up in the National School of Character competition by Character Counts. It also was 2015 runner-up for National School of the Year by Imagine Schools.

Imagine’s students come primarily from Lutz and Land O’ Lakes, but also from Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey and as far away as Brandon in Hillsborough.

The opening of Sanders Memorial Elementary STEAM School and the scheduled opening of a charter school in Lutz next year doesn’t worry Williams.

The principal thinks that families choose to keep their children at Imagine because of the quality of education they receive, and the relationships that have developed between the families and staff.

“We’ve proven our worth, and the families are committed,” Williams said.

Published May 18, 2016

Honorary mayoral candidates duke it out

By

The race is on to see who will be named the next Honorary Mayor of Land O’ Lakes.

The annual contest, sponsored by The Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, helps raise money for the chamber and some local charities.

This year, the contest pits candidates Gayle Hill and Sandy Graves.

Graves’ campaign has the somewhat lengthy slogan, “Making Land O’ Lakes the shining Census Designated Place on the hill.”

Gayle Hill, left, is running to replace Tariq Zidan, the Honorary Mayor of Land O’ Lakes. Sandy Graves, on the right wants the title, too. (Courtesy of Sandy Graves)
Gayle Hill, left, is running to replace Tariq Zidan, the Honorary Mayor of Land O’ Lakes. Sandy Graves, on the right wants the title, too.
(Courtesy of Sandy Graves)

It’s a tongue-in-cheek reference to a skirmish over where the boundaries lines should be between Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel.

Gayle Hill, of UpHill Marketing Group, said she decided to run because being a member of the Central Pasco Chamber has been good for her business.

“It’s given me ways to promote myself in ways that I wouldn’t ordinarily be able to,” Hill said. “This is a way for me to help give back to the chamber, while also giving back to the community in the form of the charity that I’ve chosen.”

Hill said she was encouraged to toss her hat in the ring by some other chamber members, including Terri Dusek, a former Honorary Mayor of Land O’ Lakes.

Hill’s campaign slogan is “Moving Land O’ Lakes Forward” and her charity is to help the Fraternal Order of Police create a permanent memorial for Pasco County’s fallen law enforcement officers.

Unlike politics in the real world, these candidates plan to hold some joint fundraising activities.

For instance, there’s softball game planned between the two women’s teams. The game is scheduled for May 20 at 6 p.m. at field at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

They’re selling a sponsorship spots on the program for $25 each, and admission to the game is $5.

Another event is planned in June. It will be a political fundraising rally dinner and movie night featuring the film, “My Fellow Americans,” according to Graves.

And, like most politicians, they’re going to have their hand out for contributions.

“We’re going to hit people up for some donations,” Hill said. Details are still being worked out for other fundraisers, she added.

Graves said she was attracted to the race because of its tradition of helping good causes.

Years ago, it helped to build the pool at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, she said.

“That sort of tradition is what I like. That community involvement and helping some local charities, and the chamber itself,” Graves said.

Graves’ campaign will benefit the Heritage Park Foundation, which will sponsor some scholarships for summer recreation programs, she said.

While it’s a friendly competition, Graves said she’s going to do her best to try to claim the sash.

“I’m trying to get the establishment behind me,” she said, with a laugh.

If you’d like to know more about this playful ‘political’ contest, call the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce for more information, at (813) 909-2722.

Published May 11, 2016

New charter school won’t open until 2017

By

Several families in the Lutz and Land O’ Lakes area were anticipating Sunlake Academy of Math and Science to open in time for the 2016-2017 school year, but that isn’t going to happen.

Instead, the public charter school, which is being built at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz, is set to open in August 2017.

This is a prototype of what Sunlake Academy will look like once it’s complete. The 40,000-square-foot facility expects to accommodate 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade. (Photos courtesy of Charter School Associates)
This is a prototype of what Sunlake Academy will look like once it’s complete. The 40,000-square-foot facility expects to accommodate 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade.
(Photos courtesy of Charter School Associates)

The school, operated by Charter School Associates (CSA), scheduled a Parent Information Session on April 11, expecting to open for the 2016-2017 school year. But on April 27, Michael Strader, president of Charter School Associates, addressed a letter to parents and guardians, saying, “the opening of Sunlake Academy of Math and Science will be deferred to August 2017.”

He explained the delay this way: “Although the property developer and general contractor were originally confident that our new school would be ready for the Aug. 10 opening date, we recently learned that delays in the receipt of various building and site permits will push the completion of the school past that date.”

In an interview with the Laker/Lutz News, Strader indicated his group tried finding a temporary facility to hold classes until construction was complete, but to no avail.

“We couldn’t find an existing facility nearby that would be within a reasonable commute—like people who live close to where the school is planned—that would accommodate the number of students that made applications,” Strader said. “We really…examined a number of options, including area churches. We looked to see if there were any hotels with large conference facilities or meeting facilities in the immediate area, and there just seemed to be none available that we could schedule for several weeks.”

The highway entrance of Sunlake Academy, at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. Up until April 27, the school advertised it would open in August 2016.
The highway entrance of Sunlake Academy, at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. Up until April 27, the school advertised it would open in August 2016.

Several parents suggested the possibility of utilizing portable classroom buildings in the short-term. However, Strader noted portable classrooms weren’t really a feasible option, either.

“The only thing with portables is they require many of the same infrastructure that a permanent building would require with utility connections, hard roads for life safety vehicles — fire trucks, ambulances — so portable classrooms aren’t as simple as just bringing them in and setting them up,” Strader said.

Sunlake Academy was originally proposed to be located on an 8.4-acre piece of land at the southwest corner of Lutz Lake Fern Road and Sunlake Boulevard. However, those plans changed after objections from nearby residents and numerous conditions attached to the county’s approval for the site.

Changing locations and obtaining site permits for the North Dale Mabry location has been an ongoing process, Strader acknowledged.

“I understand that (the North Dale Mabry) area is going through a whole new floodplain recalculation by the Southwest Florida Water Management District, so that had some kind of impacts on it, and we were just later than anticipated in receiving all the site permits, and that’s what ultimately put the project behind,” the CSA president said.

Once open, the 40,000-square-foot, two-story charter will be large enough to accommodate about 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade. The charter, which will be tax-funded and tuition-free, is expected to pull students from within a 5-mile radius of the school’s location, which is about a half-mile north of Exciting Idlewild Boulevard.

It will have a focus on STEM curriculum, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math. It also will offer an interdisciplinary approach to learning, in which lessons will emphasize the interrelationships between various subjects.

The school’s features will include a library and media center, science laboratories, computer labs, art rooms and an area for outdoor activities.

Despite the school’s deferred opening, Strader said he’s had conversations the school’s developer, Charter School Properties, to ensure construction isn’t delayed even further, “so that prospective parents could certainly see a building there and have confidence that the school will indeed be ready for August 2017.”

According to Strader, the school was expected to be built in two phases, progressively adding more students during each phase. Now with the additional construction time, both phases should be complete for the 2017-2018 school year.

“There was a lot of interest in the school and we had done quite well with interested parents,” he said. “So, if the demand is still there next year, we’ll have the facilities to grow…beyond the initial 600 students that we’d anticipated for this year.”

Published May 11, 2016

Dim those lights — and sleep better at night

By

Imagine creating a device that would help people sleep better at night.

A trio of local girls came up with a prototype for an invention that would do just that.

Their idea – and the entry it generated — garnered a second place prize in the the Bright Schools Competition, a national contest co-sponsored by the National Sleep Foundation and the National Science Teachers Association.

Sarah Szymanski, a teacher at Pine View Middle School, left, coached Grace Nobles, Catie Tomasello and Sophia Nobles in the Bright Schools Competition. The team finished second in a competition that included students from across the U.S. and Canada. (Courtesy of Heather Tomasello)
Sarah Szymanski, a teacher at Pine View Middle School, left, coached Grace Nobles, Catie Tomasello and Sophia Nobles in the Bright Schools Competition. The team finished second in a competition that included students from across the U.S. and Canada.
(Courtesy of Heather Tomasello)

The team of middle schoolers, made up of Catie Tomasello, of Land O’ Lakes and Grace and Sophia Nobles, of New Tampa, called themselves Team iLUMENate and submitted a project called “The iLUMENate Prototype.”

In essence, the prototype uses a light tracker, a cell phone app and a Smart Home system to monitor the amount of light a user receives throughout the day. The device adjusts the user’s environment to provide the proper amount of blue light exposure, for optimum light and sleep.

Besides creating the prototype, the team wrote a brief research paper and created a video for their prototype.

“Blue light is essential for regulating your circadian rhythm. You get too much of it at night, it prevents the body’s producing of melatonin. It makes it hard to sleep,” 14-year-old Grace Nobles explained.

“They say an hour or two before bed to stop using your devices. Teenagers, especially, have an issue with getting enough sleep,” she added.

Twelve-year-old Sophia Nobles designed the virtual floor plan that was used to demonstrate the concept in the project.

Catie Tomasello created a video to show how their prototype would work. It shows a Smart House, where lights are dimmed to reduce light exposure.

The girls began working on their entry at the beginning of the school year and invested between 40 and 50 hours on the project, said Heather Tomasello, Catie’s mom.

They bounced their ideas off of Sarah Szymanski, a teacher at Pine View Middle School, who was their coach. She also reviewed their research and their video, Heather Tomasello said, noting Szymanski was Catie’s former teacher.

The girls, who are homeschooled, decided to enter the contest after Heather Tomasello saw it on a list of contests sponsored by the National Science Teachers Association.

The Bright Schools Competition was open to students in sixth- through eighth-grade in the United States and Canada.

For their second-place finish, the girls each earned a prize of $2,500.

Their coach will receive an all-expense paid trip to the NSTA conference and membership to the NSTA.

The moms were delighted with the contest results.

“I was very excited,” said Shawn Nobles, who is Grace and Sophia’s mom.

“I was blown away,” Heather Tomasello said.

These girls are no strangers to achievement in academic circles.

Sophia took part in the White House Science Fair last year.

And all three girls have been on successful teams in the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision competition.

Both Sophia and Grace have competed in ExploraVision three times and their teams have won honors twice. Catie competed on five teams and won honors four times. Last year, her team took the top national prize.

Published May 11, 2016

These pint-size Olympians were a big hit

By

The Pee Wee Olympics, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center, was one of those events where everyone seemed to be having fun.

The competition, held on April 30, was geared toward children 5 and under.

Styrofoam weights on the end of a plastic barbell made a fun activity for John Potthast,4. His dad and mom, Paul and Lisa Potthast of Land O’ Lakes looked on as he hoists the weights overhead. John’s twin sister, Kathryn, 4, and brother, Ryan, 7, were present, too. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
Styrofoam weights on the end of a plastic barbell made a fun activity for John Potthast,4. His dad and mom, Paul and Lisa Potthast of Land O’ Lakes looked on as he hoists the weights overhead. John’s twin sister, Kathryn, 4, and brother, Ryan, 7, were present, too.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

It gave youngsters who are too young to compete in organized recreational sports a chance to test their skills in 12 Olympic-style events in the gym.

Of course, the events were scaled down to suit the toddlers and preschoolers that took part.

The ‘weightlifting’ station, for example, consisted of two Styrofoam plates attached to a plastic barbell.

Other popular stations included the tricycle race, soccer kicking and mini-hoop shooting.

While some events — such as the ‘fast dash’ race — were timed, they were all done for fun. It wasn’t about who was the best, it was more about being able to finish the course. Kids were allowed to do as many events as they wanted, in no particular order. Those that completed every event at least once were awarded a participation medal, and an opportunity to get their photo taken on the ‘winners’ stage.

Creating a list of events and configuring them to be suitable for such a young age range was a process that took several hours beforehand, according to Mandy Stephens, a recreation leader at the complex.

Eric Schaefer, right, stands near his son, 4-year-old Cole Schaefer, of Land O’ Lakes, as the little boy tries to decide what event he wants to start.
Eric Schaefer, right, stands near his son, 4-year-old Cole Schaefer, of Land O’ Lakes, as the little boy tries to decide what event he wants to start.

“We were just throwing ideas on what supplies we already have…and adapting it to the events,” she said. “We had to be creative.”

That creativity appealed to many parents and guardians, who expressed their pleasure with the event.

They obviously enjoyed the event’s atmosphere, which centered on positivity and excitement.

Having the activities organized inside the recreation center’s air-conditioned gymnasium was another plus, considering the humid weather outdoors.

“I think it’s really cute,” said Cindy Griffiths, the grandmother of 5-year-old Kent Craighead. “It’s nice for the younger kids to get out, and everything’s made for the kids. When they’re young like this, there’s not a lot (out there), so this was nice.”

Mike Phillips, of Land O’ Lakes, gave the event high marks, too. “It’s really cool, I like the idea,” said Phillips, who brought two children, Kori and Rilynn, to the event.

The recreation center regularly organized an annual Pee Wee Olympics, but stopped a few years ago.

Center leaders decided to restart the event again last year and attracted about 35 participants. This year, it drew 55.

Children line up for their turn on the tricycle course during the Pee Wee Olympics, at the Land O'Lakes Recreation Complex on Collier Parkway.
Children line up for their turn on the tricycle course during the Pee Wee Olympics, at the Land O’Lakes Recreation Complex on Collier Parkway.

“It’s just something for our toddlers, or for the younger kids who aren’t in youth sports yet,” said Cindy Szappan, the complex’s recreation supervisor. “It’s something for them because the parents are always looking for stuff for their younger kids to do.

“Most of our other (activities) starts at (age) 5, (or) 6,” Szappan added. “So, it’s hard because they have active kids, but there’s nothing…sports-wise for them to do.”

With a sizable climb in participation compared to last year, Szappan plans to organize two Pee Wee Olympics events each year — one in the fall and one in the summer. Having two competitions each year will require additional help from about around 15 volunteers, officials said.

This year, several volunteers from Sunlake High School, Weightmann Middle School and the Central Pasco Girl’s Academy helped make the nearly two-hour event run relatively seamlessly.

“It was really organized and it really worked well for the kids,” said Nicole Busha, a Sunlake High junior who volunteered on behalf of the school’s Key Club.

Pee Wee Olympics Stations
There were 12 events at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center’s Pee Wee Olympics:

  • Weightlifting
  • Tricycle Rally
  • Mini-Golf
  • Shot Put
  • High Jump
  • Long Jump
  • Hoop Shoot
  • Soccer Shoot
  • Javelin Toss
  • Discus Throw
  • Hurdles
  • Fast Dash

Published May 11, 2016

Knowledge is power in the war on sexual assault

By

A group of men and women gathered at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch on April 26 for a community seminar on the issue of sexual assault.

The Sexual Assault Awareness Symposium, co-sponsored by PHSC and Sunrise of Pasco County Domestic & Sexual Violence Center covered a social issue that’s often difficult for people to talk about.

It’s a widespread problem, however.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 20 percent to 25 percent of college females are raped at some point in their college career.

Terri O’Brien, of Sunrise of Pasco County Inc. Domestic & Sexual Violence Center, said sexual violence is any kind of unwanted sexual contact. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)
Terri O’Brien, of Sunrise of Pasco County Inc. Domestic & Sexual Violence Center, said sexual violence is any kind of unwanted sexual contact.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

It’s an issue that affects the way people think and how they live, said Terri O’Brien, director of training for Sunrise.

About midway through the seminar she asked the same question twice — first to the men assembled, and then to the women.

“What precautions do you take on a daily basis to avoid being sexually assaulted?” she asked.

The men offered no response.

The women, however, did: “Don’t walk to my car alone at night,” one said.

“Watch what you drink at the bar,” said another.

“Have my keys out (when walking to the car),” replied a third.

If she didn’t have to worry, O’Brien said, “I’d sleep with my windows open at night.”

It’s a fear that judges others with a broad brush, she added.

When women walk alone at night, they put their guard up, if they see a male approaching, O’Brien added. It can be “the nicest guy in the world” but most women view him “as a potential threat,” she said.

Such concerns, however, pale in comparison to the trauma that occurs to someone who is sexually assaulted, the experts at the seminar said.

“It changes their entire lives,” said Clarice Freese, a Sunrise counselor who has worked with survivors of sexual violence for 40 years.

The impact of sexual violence affects survivors, loved ones, the community and society, O’Brien said.

“Sexual violence is any type of unwanted sexual contact,” O’Brien said.

“It’s (sexual assault) not about sex. It’s about power, control and anger,” Freese said.

There are lots of ways to pressure people to have unwanted sex, O’Brien said, asking members to offer their thoughts on some of the possibilities.

“Guilt,” one suggested – “Don’t you love me?”

“Blackmail,” said another – “I’m going to out you.”

“Abuse of authority” and ”physical dominance” were other responses offered.

Sexual assault is a hard topic to talk about, Freese said, especially for survivors.

“You’re terrified that you’re going to be blamed,” she said.

When someone is assaulted, it is common to feel numb, she said.

But as those feelings wear off, a rape survivor often feels the need to talk about it.

For those who don’t know where to turn, the rape crisis hotline is a good place to start, Freese said.

“When you call a 1-800 number, wherever you’re calling from, you will be connected to the closest available rape crisis center, automatically connected,” she said.

“When I make that call, I begin to connect with someone that is going to listen through my experience. They will not judge me. They will not make demands of me. They will not say I have to, or I should. They will give me concrete, good information,” Freese said.

“What is information? Information is power,” Freese said.

Clarice Freese, a counselor to survivors of sexual violence, said unfortunately not enough has changed in the 40 years she’s been working the in field.
Clarice Freese, a counselor to survivors of sexual violence, said unfortunately not enough has changed in the 40 years she’s been working the in field.

“I’m going to be given enough information to make a good choice for myself.

“Rape is a crisis. It’s a big one,” Freese said.

But survivors can find their way back from it and they don’t have to do that alone, she said.

What you can do:

  • Call the hotline at (352) 521-3120 or call 911, if you choose to report
  • If reporting, consider not washing or changing clothes. Important evidence may be collected.
  • You have a right to a free exam, whether you report or not.

• If you are unsure of what to do, consider speaking to a rape crisis counselor or someone you trust. Sunrise of Pasco County, Inc. Domestic & Sexual Violence Center, provides services free of charge. For more information, visit SunrisePasco.Org or call (352) 567-1681.

Published May 4, 2016

Papal honors bestowed during special ceremony

By

The pastors of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church in Land O’ Lakes and Saint Peter the Apostle in Trinity have received honors bestowed by Pope Francis.

The Rev. Ron Aubin and the Rev. Dennis Hughes now have an additional title, besides pastor and father — they now also bear the title of monsignor, a designation that is bestowed on those who have been named a Chaplain of His Holiness.

The Rev. Ron Aubin, left, of Our Lady of the Rosary, has received the title of monsignor. He is shown here with the Most Rev. Robert Lynch, Bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg. (Courtesy of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church)
The Rev. Ron Aubin, left, of Our Lady of the Rosary, has received the title of monsignor. He is shown here with the Most Rev. Robert Lynch, Bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg.
(Courtesy of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church)

The Most Rev. Robert Lynch, Bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg, nominated the men for the honor, which was officially conferred during a special ceremony on April 17 at the diocese’s Bethany Center in Lutz.

The evening also included the award of the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal to 14 recipients. One person also received the Benemerenti Medal.

To be nominated to be designated as a monsignor, one must be at least 65 years old, Aubin said.

It’s typically a recognition for efforts made over a lifetime of ministry, said Aubin, who said he grew up in Catholic family, attending Catholic schools and felt called early on to be a priest.

He was surprised when he got the call from the bishop, informing him he was being nominated for the honor.

“It’s nice to be recognized,” Aubin said, adding that he thinks the older parishioners at Our Lady of the Rosary were more excited than he was by the honor.

While he is grateful to Bishop Lynch and Pope Francis for the designation, he said, “As far as I’m concerned, there’s no better title than Father.”

Aubin also noted: “when the kids started calling me Papa Ron, that was the best honorific.”

“I’m just a pastor. That’s all I am. It’s all I wanted to be,” Aubin said.

The Rev. Dennis Hughes, pastor of Saint Peter the Apostle Church in Trinity, also has received the title of monsignor. (File photo)
The Rev. Dennis Hughes, pastor of Saint Peter the Apostle Church in Trinity, also has received the title of monsignor.
(File photo)

The Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal, considered the highest honor which the church awards to its lay and religious members, is granted by the Pope following the nomination of a bishop, who provides a case statement regarding the nominee’s worthiness for the designation.

Including those designated during the ceremony, only 62 men and women in the diocese of St. Petersburg have received this distinction in the past 20 years.

Local recipients of Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Medal were: Gerald Phillip Giglia, of St. Timothy Church in Lutz and,  Arthur Francis Kirk, former president of Saint Leo University, of St. Leo Abbey/St. Rita Catholic Church, Dade City.

Published on May 4, 2016