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Lutz News

Pasco planning board recommends against cell tower

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A request for a 155-foot cell tower in an Odessa neighborhood has met with resistance from area residents and has received a recommendation for denial from a divided planning board.

An attorney for the applicants, Joan E. Patterson/Anthemnet and Verizon Wireless, told the planning board that the request meets the requirements spelled out in county regulations and asked the board to agree with the planning staff’s recommendation for approval.

The application called for a 155-foot pole, including a 150-foot monopine, which resembles a pine tree, as well as a 5-foot lightning rod on a property at the terminus of Roland Drive, about 600 feet north of Balough Road, in Odessa.

Neighbors made their objections loud and clear during a Nov. 16 public hearing before the Pasco County Planning Commission.

Residents expressed fears about potential negative impacts on their health and also on their property values.

A request for a 155-foot cell tower, which will be disguised as a tree, in an Odessa neighborhood has met with resistance from area residents and has received a recommendation for denial from a divided Pasco County planning board.

They said the cell tower would become an eyesore in an area that boasts natural beauty.

One speaker told the planning board that if a cell tower must be approved, it would be better to have one of a different design.

He voiced concerns about the monopine’s materials deteriorating and shedding over time, posing environmental risk to people, property, wetlands and a lake.

Others expressed worries about the wear and tear that will be created as trucks come to the site to build and maintain the cell tower.

David Goldstein, Pasco’s chief assistant county attorney, told the audience that the Federal Communications Commission has preempted local governments from regulating cell towers based upon potential harmful effects on people, plants or animals from radiofrequency emissions.

The planning board’s role, he said, is to look at it from a land use and zoning perspective and not to consider any potential health effects.

Planning Commissioner Jon Moody was receptive to the argument that materials shedding from a monopine could have negative impacts. He called for approval of the request, but said the cell tower should be a monopole, made of galvanized steel.

While not being able to produce hard evidence, other speakers told the planning board they fear the presence of a cell tower in their neighborhood would deter buyers, should they ever want to sell their homes.

Planning Commissioner Jaime Girardi raised concerns about placing a cell tower in a residential neighborhood, and, in general, about the increasing proliferation of cell towers.

“Are we heading down the path that we’re going to have a cell tower every mile in the county?” Girardi asked.

Bill Compton, a technical expert for the applicant, said there are areas where the sites are needed that close together based on demand and cell tower capacity.

Girardi said he’s also concerned about this request because “it’s very close to existing residential in the area,” noting the tower would be just 100 feet from the property line.

“That’s bothersome to me,” he said. Girardi added: “I think we’re headed down a dangerous path here, if you need one of these things every mile.”

Planning Commissioner Derek Pontlitz, who voted in favor of the request, said today’s technology demands the installation of cell towers to support it.

Planning Commissioner Richard Tonello asked if the roads leading to the site will allow the equipment needed to carry the necessary materials to build the tower.

Representatives for the applicant said the roads are sufficient to gain access and any damage that occurs to the roads during the construction phase will be repaired.

The attorney for the applicant also noted that if any damage to the monopine’s fronds occurs, the applicant is required to provide repairs within 15 days.

Planning Commission Chairman Charles Grey asked if the applicant would be willing to build a bell tower, rather than a monopole or monopine.

The attorney responded that the clients support a monopole or monopine, not a bell tower structure.

Goldstein asked: “Is it because of a technical reason or cost issue?”

The attorney said cost is a factor, but deferred to her expert regarding the technical question.

Compton said the types of structures used are becoming a bigger issue as different frequency bands come out.

Grey told his colleagues that he would not support the request.

“We do have a responsibility, as a board, to try to protect the people that live in that area.

“The other thing that I don’t like is that I don’t like it when a company comes and says, ‘We don’t want to do that because it’s going to cost more money.’ How it affects the neighbors is more important to me than whether it’s going to cost more money.

“I’m not sure all of the best efforts were made here to find the better location,” Grey said. 

The planning board voted 3-2 to recommend denial of the request. It now goes to the Pasco County Commission, which has final jurisdiction over zoning and land use issues.

In other action, the planning board:

  • Approved a special exception request from Esther’s School Inc., for a private school in a high-density residential area. The school will operate on a roughly 6-acre site on the south side of State Road 52, about 165 feet east of Meadow Drive.
  • Recommended approval of a request by The Crossings at Sunlake to rezone a 3.69-acres site on the north side of State Road 52, at the intersection of Sunlake Boulevard. The property is zoned for general commercial uses and a light industrial park district. The applicant proposes a general commercial district for a portion of The Crossings at Sunlake Commerce Park. A request is pending to change the comprehensive land use designation on the site from light industrial to commercial.

Published December 06, 2023

Youth cooking skills are served

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These youngsters are ready to dish, dish, dish.

They, in no short order, have signed up at Young Chefs Academy, the new cooking school that provides weekly classes and workshops for kids, tweens and teens who are interested in developing and sharpening their culinary skills.

Wesley Chapel young chef Axel Martinon happily seasons meat that will be put into a chili dish, during a class at Young Chefs Academy, a cooking and culinary school that opened in Lutz in October. Youthful and hopeful chefs can sign up for classes that teach them to prepare, cook and present meals and hone their culinary skills in a kitchen environment. (Mike Camunas)

The academy provides a kitchen space for kids passionate about learning how to prepare, sautee, mince, season, mix and match recipes and, finally, present meals and dishes.

“They may address me as ‘chef,’ but they always don’t want a chef because sometimes real chefs aren’t always good at breaking down and teaching (how to cook),” said co-owner and head chef Paul Neale, who, by trade, is not a traditional chef. “They have to learn some things, like using a real knife, and you teach them technique and why it’s held this way, and safety and efficiency.

“But when you teach them something and it clicks, it’s just amazing to see the progress and how they get better and then the food is better.”

Neale, along with his wife, Lisa, opened the new location of Young Chefs Academy in Lutz in October, adding to their other location in Seminole. The Wesley Chapel residents were searching for culinary classes for their 12-year-old son, T.J., when they happened upon the Young Chefs Academy franchise, which turned out to be the perfect opportunity to launch a business.

However, neither were trained chefs, with both working in the corporate world before retiring.

Sara Melendez watches as an instructor at Young Chefs Academy in Lutz teaches her the proper technique to prepare and chop kale for a dish.

“We are good cooks, we are not chefs — we’re here to teach that now,” Lisa said. “When we were looking (for T.J.), we found (Young Chefs) and thought it would be neat to own and teach that, and it’s all the rage with (cooking) shows, but it’s also a life skill. So, we fell in love with the concept.

“Young Chefs teaches us everything we need to know to teach,” she added.

Some of the academy’s staff are chefs. Some have been cooking for a lifetime and are passionate about it, some are culinary students and some are culinary students to be.

Lisa said it took about two years to get into their new location that comes with a fully functional kitchen and appliances. All classes will provide the food, tools, recipes and the know-how to prepare various meals. Some of the meals will be easy; some, more difficult.

Students at Young Chefs Academy in Lutz practice prepare ingredients for dishes with plastic knives before graduating to the real thing.

It then comes down to the adult chefs to teach the younger versions proper techniques in preparing, from slicing and dicing, to food preparation. That also includes why certain foods take certain flavoring better and what pairs best.

Each class has about 10 to 12 young chefs, but Lisa added the spaces filled up fast.

“Young Chefs can teach you how to cook, how to prep, how to pair, how to slice and dice,” she said. “What we can’t teach is the passion for cooking, for food, for preparing it for others. We’ve seen with the kids we have so far that passion for them to cook, which is what makes teaching these cooking classes just so amazingly fun.”

Owner and head chef at Young Chefs Academy in Lutz Paul Neale leads a round-kitchen class at the newly opened school where young, budding chefs can hone their culinary skills.

Paul added: “I like to cook, I’ve always been in the kitchen, but I’m not a chef. The franchise teaches you how to cook, how to prepare, how to teach, but it’s a life skill, and kids will try things they normally wouldn’t. They’re making it, but then trying food they might not normally eat if they weren’t making it, because now they’re proud of it.

“They want to try it and they want their parents to try it.”

Paul and Lisa point out the popularity of cooking by youth may not necessarily be new, but the boom of cooking shows on TV has helped get kids into the kitchen either besides, or in addition to, say, a soccer field or karate or ballet studio.

“Plus, parents have to cook, so kids want to be in the kitchen with them,” Lisa added. “It’s something they want to do with them, so I think a lot of these kids want to participate as something the family does together.”

Whatever the reason may be, these young chefs are eager to dish out meals.

Parents reap benefits from taking their kiddos to Young Chefs Academy in Lutz, because they get to taste the dishes their young chefs prepared and cooked during class.

“I love coming here so far because I like how they give you the recipes to try and you have to learn how to do it — you taste it and keep trying till you get it right,” 10-year-old chef Noah Diaz said. “You gotta learn how to cut and actually how to prepare (food), and you have to actually learn how to do all the things you would in a kitchen. You’re learning how to cook different things and that’s a lot of fun to me.

“Plus, you then learn what food goes with which and how to pair recipes and make dishes — you’re learning how to be a chef!”

Young Chefs Academy
Where: 23606 State Road 54, in Lutz
Details: This academy provides weekly classes and workshops for kids, tweens and teens who are interested in the culinary arts and in developing, building upon and sharpening their cooking skills.
Info: Visit WesleyChapelFl.youngchefsacademy.com.

Published November 08, 2023

 

Giovanni Arreaga works on preparing some chives during a Young Chefs Academy Class.
Noah Diaz watches as a fellow chef student seasons meat during class at Young Chefs Academy in Lutz.
Natalia Anderson uses a plastic, but effective knife to prepare kale during class at Young Chefs Academy in Lutz. She’s hoping to hone her culinary skills and possibly, in the future, become a professional chef.

Lutz Church of God gains approval for Land O’ Lakes location

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The Lutz Church of God has been granted a special exception from the Pasco County Planning Commission, allowing it to locate a church on 8.50 acres, on the west side of School Road, at the northernmost intersection of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard and School Road.

The planning board approved the request, with conditions. Planning board Peter Hanzel voted no, saying he doesn’t think the proposed church is compatible with the surrounding development.

Lutz Church of God has been granted a special exception from the Pasco County Planning Commission, allowing it to locate a church on 8.50 acres, on the west side of School Road, at the northernmost intersection of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard. (Mike Camunas)

In granting the request, the planning board stipulated that the future church be prohibited from allowing access to the lake by motorized boats.

The church’s pastor said that won’t be a problem.

It may have an observation deck at some point, so people can view the lake, but has no plans for a boat launch, he said.

Three neighbors spoke against the request.

They said they were worried that the church could create an access to the lake, which already suffers from water quality issues, posing an ecological threat to the lake.

They said if that access was granted, there’s no way of knowing how many members of the congregation would use that access.

They also said the church’s traffic and other impacts would just be another thing they’d have to live with, in an area that already has traffic from nearby Sanders Memorial Elementary School, a church and Christian school on School Road, and Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.

Planning board members told opponents of the project that the church would not be able to add a boat dock without environmental clearances, which would be unlikely to occur.

The site is flanked on the north by Edmonson Electric; on the east by School Road, vacant property and Land O’ Lakes Boulevard; on the south by wetlands and vacant land; and on the west by Lake Thomas and wetlands.

The site currently has a single residential dwelling, which will remain on the property to be used for church purposes, according to the church’s pastor.

Published September 20, 2023

After 90 years, Lutz Scouts still trooping along

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They’ve been prepared for this for 90 years.

Scouts, and their leaders, of Boy Scout Troop 12 are celebrating the pack’s 90th anniversary in 2023, as the youth-based organization took time to reflect on its impact on the Lutz community.

From left: Boy Scout Troop 12 members, Life Scout Gabe Luria, Life Scout Grayson Tibbett, Second Class Scout Nate Miller and Second Class Scout Gavin Miller look over a project at the troop’s Scout Hut, 205 Second Ave. S.E., in Lutz. The four young men are part of Troop 12’s nearly two dozen members. The troop, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary, has had its hand in countless community service projects. (Mike Camunas)

With 24 scouts of varying ranks, about a dozen adult leaders and an absolutely impressive list of Eagles Scouts through the years, Troop 12 has been developing boys into men, then into leaders, for nine decades.

“There’s two sides to it, really,” Gabe Luria, assistant senior patrol leader and life Scout, said. “On the one side, you hope to live up to it all, but also not wreck the history by letting this place burn down or something. On the other side, you realize, wow, this is my troop and look at what they’ve all done.

“It’s kind of insane they’ve done so much and been around so long.”

Troop 12, even with its history, is different from many other troops for several reasons.

For starters, according to former Scoutmaster and Troop Historian Paul Evans, the troop has had an uninterrupted charter since it was formed in 1933. Sometimes, troops can dissolve or merge with another troop — Troop 12 did just this as recently as two years ago with Troop 21 out of St. Mary’s Church in nearby Lake Magdalene.

Additionally, Troop 12 also doesn’t have to rely on a church or school to hold its meetings, as it’s not dependent for a meeting place. It has its own Troop Hut, or building, located at 205 Second Ave., S.E., in Lutz.

It’s a medium-sized meeting hall where the scouts come together to work on their projects, trips and initiatives. It also houses not only their equipment, but a plethora of history and scout memorabilia.

Troop 12 in Lutz established its charter in 1933 and has produced dozens of Eagle Scouts. Many have become established community leaders and business people, and some have children who have been members of the troop.

“No one has the history we have,” second-year Scoutmaster Doug Tibbett said. “Since we don’t have to rely on churches or other places for facilities to meet at, it allows us to do a little bit more by having our own property.

“When (my son, Grayson, and I) came in, we didn’t really know everyone,” Tibbett added, “but became quite comfortable with everyone quickly. Eventually, you are sending your son off on a trip or camping with people that you want to rely on. Everyone’s vetted and on the up and up, and because of it, we get great leadership.

“As a parent, I’m not worried about my son or the boys because we have quality leaders.”

Leaders, as it turns out, that actually lead.

Troop 12 is self-run by the young men, which gives the scouts a chance to really step into leadership roles.

“I like that we’re youth-run,” Luria said. “We practice leadership in a practical manner, so we have to lead, but we get to lead in a way that we learn from it.

“And that way, becoming an Eagle Scout isn’t just about putting it on your resume. It’s about being able to show that we can actually lead the Troop.”

Troop 12 Scout Masters, from left, Bill Weber, Josh Luria and Paul Evans, discuss some upcoming projects. They also reminisce about the 90-year-old troop’s storied history.

Troop 12 had its first Eagle Scout when Ralph Combs earned the honor in 1939. Not long after that was their second Eagle Scout, Sydney Evans, who would go on to serve in World War II, only to return to Troop 12 and become a Scoutmaster.

According to Tibbett, Troop 12 members generally become Eagle Scouts around 16 years old, about two years before they age out of scouting.

“We try to get them to Eagle before the fumes kick in: car fumes and perfumes,” Tibbett said. “They get cars and girlfriends, so sometimes they branch out their lives, which is fine, but we like to see them mentor, too. We don’t want them to Eagle and disappear, and they usually don’t. With all the Eagles on the board (in the hut), some have become leaders in the community.”

Troop 12, in Lutz, lowers the American flag during a ceremony, and to protect it from an approaching storm on Aug. 28.

“It’s an organization that you don’t realize what you get out of it until later,” Evans added. “I think that’s why many end up coming back, even if not to lead, but to see the troop, talk to the scouts, see how we’re doing.

“They’re always a part of Troop 12.”

Also always a part of Troop 12 is its impact on the community, specifically from its service to its many institutions — which include the countless Eagle Projects that dot the small unincorporated town.

Tibbett, Evans, Luria and the rest of the Troop can’t help but see the projects, from work done at Carolyn Meeker Dog Park, a butterfly garden, aviaries, retired flag boxes at multiple locations, and work done at Lutz Library and Cemetery.

The bottom line is be prepared for many more Eagle Projects in Lutz coming from Troop 12.

“You can’t look around Lutz without seeing one, and, of course, we always look at places close to us (for projects), from the K-8 School to the Old Schoolhouse,” Tibbett said. “Those projects, they’re great, because they’re a part of Lutz and always will be.”

“To walk around Lutz and see all the previous Eagle Scout projects, that’s really cool,” Luria added. “In fact, we went to a campsite somewhere in Georgia and (a project) said, ‘Eagle Scout Project Troop 12’ and that’s insane since it was hundreds of miles from Lutz.

“One day, some kid is going to do the same thing to my project and that’s going to be pretty cool, too.”

Published September 13, 2023

Pioneer Lutz woman leaves a permanent mark on her community

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During her lifetime, Elizabeth Riegler MacManus got a thrill from gathering old photographs and tracking down facts about the people, places and institutions in Lutz and Land O’ Lakes.

This poster captures the importance that citrus groves played in the development of Lutz and Central Pasco County. Elizabeth Riegler MacManus amassed a vast collection of historical artifacts and those are being shared through The Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection, which is being dedicated in a Sept. 20 ceremony at the Lutz Branch Library. (Courtesy of the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative)

Over decades, she amassed a huge collection of historical regional artifacts.

Her passion prompted her to write books, including two she co-authored, with her daughter Susan A. MacManus.

One, “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters & Crackers: Life in Early Lutz and Central Pasco County” was completed during Elizabeth’s lifetime.

She and Susan had wrapped up most of the legwork for the sequel, “Going, Going … Almost Gone: Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Pioneers Share Their Precious Memories,” before Elizabeth died in  2008.

The books contain a treasure trove of photographs and recollections transcribed from oral histories that Elizabeth had collected.

Next week, much of the work amassed by Elizabeth during her lifetime will be shared through the dedication of The Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection.

A ceremony to unveil the collection has been set for Sept. 20 at 10:30 a.m., at the Lutz Branch Library, at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road.

The materials tell the personal stories of the people and industries that played a role in the evolution of the Central Pasco and northern Hillsborough communities.

The digital collection includes regional serial publications, photographs, a group of deeds and titles, pioneer reunion photographs and genealogical documents, hand-drawn maps and artifacts, according to materials relating to the upcoming event.

The library display includes items relating to the area’s orange groves, railroads and other elements that played a pivotal role in shaping the development of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and nearby communities.

The dedication ceremony will include remarks by Jeffrey Huggins, the library’s community engagement manager; Dr. Gary Mormino, the Frank E. Duckwall Professor of History Emeritus from the University of South Florida; and by Elizabeth’s daughter, Susan, a retired USF professor of political science.

The collection has been made possible through a donation by the families of Dr. Susan MacManus, Dr. Lou MacManus and Dr. Cameron MacManus Jr.

Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection
What: Dedication of the The Elizabeth Riegler MacManus Collection, a compilation of historical materials about the families, businesses and culture documenting the pioneer life and history of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes, Wesley Chapel and other areas of Hillsborough and Central Pasco counties.
When: Sept. 20, 10:30 a.m.
Where: Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road
Cost: Admission is free. It will include a look at the display, some remarks by speakers Jeffrey Huggins, and Dr. Gary Mormino and Dr. Susan A. MacManus, both retired professors from the University of South Florida. Refreshments will be served.

Published September 13, 2023

Lutz Boy Scout Troop 12 celebrating 90 years

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(Mike Camunas)

Boy Scout Troop 12 in Lutz is planning a gathering to celebrate its 90th anniversary.

The event is set for Sept. 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Troop 12 is inviting the community to join them at a festival that will include food, activities, raffles, contests and more.

The event will be held at the Troop 12 Scout Hut, 205 Second Ave. S.E., in Lutz.

Attendance is free.

For more information or sponsorship opportunities, email .

Published September 06, 2023

Lutz author writes children’s book about foster care

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Emily Mains took inspiration from Tom & Jerry cartoons.

The legendary cat and mouse duo inspired her to write, and illustrate, her children’s book “Arlo Helps A Friend.”

“I’ve always wanted to be a writer, ever since fifth grade,” the Lutz native, who graduated from Steinbrenner High School in 2021, said in an interview with The Laker/Lutz News. “From there, I found my passion for writing.

Emily Mains, a 20-year-old Lutz native, wrote and illustrated a children’s book called ‘Arlo Helps a Friend.’ The Steinbrenner High graduate is studying creative writing at Southeastern University. In her book, Lucia, who just entered the foster care system, is befriended by the cute creature, Arlo, who helps her feel better about being in the system and helps her make friends. (Mike Camunas)

“I mostly write young-adult fiction, but I have enjoyed writing children’s books because my style is a little more light-hearted. I also feel there’s a lot that kids need to hear and have not been told yet, so I just felt a calling to it.”

In “Arlo Helps A Friend,” Lucia is a young girl who has just entered the foster care system and doesn’t want to play with other children at her school. She’s worried about living with foster parents and living in a new house, which leads to her getting into trouble at her new school.

Then she meets Arlo, a cute creature who wants to help Lucia feel better. He tells her the story of how he was adopted through the foster care system and shares how he overcame the struggles he faced.

“They become friends, and he helps Lucia,” Mains said. 

“Foster Care has always been something that has been in my heart,” Mains added. Mains’ mom is a Guardian ad Litem, which is a group of statewide volunteers who represent abused, abandoned and neglected children in court and the community.

“She has stood up for kids in court,” she added. “After hearing some of their stories, and what those kids needed, I was inspired to write something that would really help them.”

Mains, now 20, is a creative writing major at Southeastern University in Lakeland. She launched her book at her college on April 24 after spending about eight months getting published through Xulon Press.

She’s had some online book sales and said she’s seen plenty of interest in the book and its subject. She brought the book to display at the 28th Annual National Foster Care Conference in Orlando in early June.

She noticed some kids looking at it and “they really seemed to love it,” she said.

“I’ve been blessed with the sales so far,” she added. “I think we’re getting places with it and working on marketing it out there.”

The book began as a school project in a creative writing class at Steinbrenner and it took her a whole semester to write. However, Mains said she designed Arlo back during her sophomore year.

“He’s his own creature — he’s an Arlo,” she quipped.

“But it was just a fun project,” she added. “With the first design, my family fell in love with him and they thought he was adorable, so here he is now with his own book.”

As the young writer heads back to Southeastern to start the upcoming semester, Mains is currently working on a young adult fiction writing project.

Still, her heart remains with Arlo. She has no immediate plans for a sequel, but she knows Arlo’s story is far from finished.

“I think there is definitely more in store for Arlo and his friends. I foresee that.

“Because he’s Arlo, and I hope kids will love him.”

Arlo Helps A Friend
Details: Written and illustrated by Lutz native Emily Mains, Lucia is a young girl who has just entered the foster care system and doesn’t want to play with other children at her school. She’s worried about living with foster parents and living in a new home and she’s been getting into trouble at her new school. But then she meets a cute creature named Arlo. Arlo wants to help Lucia feel better, so he tells the story of how he was adopted through the foster care system and shares how he overcame the struggles he faced.
The book is available for purchase on Amazon, at tinyurl.com/3ad3wsvn.

Published August 16, 2023

Lutz Library ‘Friends’ group is back in action

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The Friends of the Library Book Depot is located inside the Lutz Branch Library. (Courtesy of The Friends of the Lutz Branch Library)

The Friends of the Lutz Branch Library have been active on and off — because of the COVID pandemic and plumbing repairs at the library.

But now the group is active again and would love for patrons to come check out its selection of affordably priced books, according to a news release.

The selection is diverse, offering books that can be enjoyed and informative for people of all ages.

The Friends have organized and re-stocked the Book Depot with a diverse collection of hundreds of donated books ready for purchase.

The Friends of the Library is a nonprofit group with a passion for reading and for helping to improve the community. All funds raised by book sales are used to sponsor programs and events at the library.

In addition to purchasing a book to add to your collection, you may want to make a donation to the group, or check into getting involved with it.

If you’d like to find out more, stop by the Lutz Branch Library, at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, or call 813-273-3652.

Published August 16, 2023

All about the Red, White & Lutz

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The floats were patriotic and as hot as the sun.

Nearly 50 entries, along with hundreds of Lutz residents and locals, made their way up Lutz Lake Fern Road for the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. The much-anticipated event — held on the sweltering morning of the Fourth of July — brought together the best of the unincorporated community of more than 28,000 to celebrate the country’s birthday.

Parade-goers out at the grandstand, near the library, jump and cheer as beads and trinkets are tossed from floats. (Mike Camunas)

The parade route, which stretched more than a mile, started near the Oscar Cooler Sports Complex and finished in front of the Lutz Branch Library and historic Lutz Train Depot.

Local organizers also held a 5K and Mile Fun Run in the early morning, a cake-decorating contest and, after the parade, announced the winner of this year’s Lutz Guv’na campaign.

Annabelle Depolis, a young local singer, belted out the National Anthem to kick off the parade, which was led by grand marshal 2022 Guv’na Atlas Cortecero.

Katelyn Easterwood, and Missy, walk along First Ave. N.W., on the tail end of the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade on a sweltering Fourth of July morning.

Hundreds lined the street as floats from the likes of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Boy and Girl Scout troops, North Tampa-Lutz Civil Air Patrol Squadron, Lutz Chiefs Cheer Squad, and local politicians, leaders and businesses owners all tossed out patriotic beads and other trinkets.

Other floats included Lutz All Star Baseball, Lutz Scoops passing out ice cream, the Tampa Rough Riders, Hillsborough County Commissioner Pat Hagen, Learning Gate Community School and the Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes.

In the 5K, the top Lutz finisher was 17-year-old Ethan Russ (16:52), who finished in sixth place, barely edging out 17-year-old Dylan Powell, of Land O’ Lakes (16:55).

All three Lutz Guv’na candidates also had entries in the parade, with eventual Guv’na winner Jerome Smalls bringing his company, SoccerGemz, and several athletes to walk in the parade.

It’s an event he looks forward to every year.

“The turnout, every year, is always amazing,” Smalls said. “It is one of the best parades, really, in the area. We learned to not  throw all beads and goodies away so fast, because you then still have a mile to go!

“(The parade is) always phenomenal, and we love being a part of it and coming out to see it every year, no matter how hot it is, and it’s always hot!”

Lutz Independence Parade Trophy Winners
Best Vehicle: Charley Musselman
Bicycle Entry: West Coast Elite
Commercial Entry: Pinch-A-Penny
Largest Turnout Participation: Lutz Chiefs Cheer
Most Patriotic: Boy Scout Pack 37
Themed Entry (RED, WHITE & Lutz): Lutz Volunteer Fire Department
Walking Unit: Civil Air Patrol
Youth Entry: Learning Gate Community School
Judge’s Favorite: The Barn at Stark Farms
Grand Marshal’s Choice: First Baptist of Lutz

Published July 12, 2023

Ten-year-old Sophia Joiner was one of hundreds of Lutz residents and locals that attended the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade on the morning of the Fourth of July.
The very vocal Lutz Chiefs Cheer squad filled their float to capacity and encouraged the crowd of hundreds to cheer along with them near the Lutz Branch Library, during the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade.
The annual Lutz Independence Day Parade and its nearly 50 floats and entries came up Lutz Lake Fern Road toward U.S. 41 and finished in front of Lutz Branch Library and the historic Lutz Train Depot. Hundreds along the parade route clamored for beads and trinkets being tossed from the floats.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Members of the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club wave from their float during the annual parade.
Justin Gaertner, a veteran who lives in Lutz, holds his son, Landry, during the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade.
Members of Cub Scout Pack 339, based out of First Baptist of Lutz, wave to the crowd in front of Lutz Branch Library.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Four-year-old Lutz resident Charlotte Sherwood enjoys a freezer pop while being pulled in a wagon in the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade on Lutz Lake Fern Road.
From back to front: Hayes White, Brantley White and Cayson Schmidt wait eagerly for floats in the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade to come toward them down Lutz Lake Fern Road.
Old Suzie, the first fire engine of the Lutz Volunteer Fire Department and privately owned by Dr. Earl Smith, makes its way down Lutz Lake Fern Road during the parade.

No small feat, as new Lutz Guv’na crowned

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Jerome Smalls wasn’t about to be a two-time loser.

“Once was enough,” said Smalls, who was unsuccessful in his 2014 bid for the Lutz Guv’na title.

Newly ‘elected’ 2023 Lutz Guv’na Jerome Smalls accepts his coveted Guv’na sash, which he received following the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. His swearing-in ceremony was held at the historic Lutz Train Depot at the corner of Lutz Lake Fern and U.S 41. The annual campaign each year raises money for local charities and nonprofit organizations. Smalls won by raising the most money, among the three Guv’na candidates. (Mike Camunas)

This time, he brought in the most cash and was crowned the 2023 Lutz Guv’na following the annual Lutz Independence Day Parade. Smalls was one of three candidates vying for the title in a yearly competition that involves raising money for various local charities and nonprofit organizations.

The winner receives the coveted Guv’na sash, a red-and-white Cat-in-the-Hat hat and a key to the unincorporated community of more than 28,000 people.

After raising more than $4,300, Smalls topped fellow candidates Shanon Monahan ($4,000 plus) and Tim Davis ($3,000 plus) and, humbly, accepted the passing of the torch from 2022 Guv’na Atlas Cortecero.

The candidates combined to raise more than $11,000, which will be divvied out to nonprofits, such as the Old Lutz School House, GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, Boy and Girl Scout Troops, churches, schools, sports teams and other organizations in Lutz.

“This is just so crazy, really, but it’s not only being up at the podium (after winning),” Smalls said. “There’s the parade and seeing all the families that we know through our program (SoccerGemz), to see (the kids) that came through and grow up and at the parade, supporting us and all the candidates.

“It’s crazy to have all that support, especially when starting a business in Lutz.”

Smalls moved to Tampa in 2005 and opened SoccerGemz in 2012. It’s an introductory soccer program which teaches the basic skills and fundamentals of soccer for children 18 months to 8 years old in the Lutz community.

An avid sports fan, Smalls was aided by his two daughters — Ivoryele, 14, and Anora, 9 — at the Guv’na debate on May 13. He also is a very active member with Lutz First Baptist.

Smalls is no stranger to being the Guv’na, since he ultimately came up short when running in 2014. This time, though, he was more savvy with his campaign.

He got the backing of some “political” heavy hitters from Lutz: the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

“The women in green shirts — I call them the WIGS,” Smalls said with a laugh. “They supported me and worked with me, because in 2014, I was just like, ‘Hey, I’m running for Guv’na! That’s cool!’ This time, I went out and got that organization because those women do so, so much for Lutz and all the organizations here.”

Whoever is crowned Guv’na earmarks 10% of the proceeds to a Lutz charitable organization of his or her choice, and Smalls said his will go to the Woman’s Club. He added he also will help other nonprofits, such as the Old Lutz School House and also plans on donating to the Lutz Branch Library — since he is a frequent patron.

“I’m an avid reader and I come here a lot,” Small said, pointing to the library from the nearby Lutz Train Depot. “I want to help out the place I go to a lot.”

Smalls held several fundraising events since May 13, from bingo events at Black Sheep American Pub, to other luncheons and dinners and fun events. Many people he knew through SoccerGemz also donated to his cause, as he could “panhandle” in the parade, in a final push to cash in for the sash.

But now that he has said sash, he plans to make due on a big campaign “promise” he made while “mudslinging” his other candidates.

And this promise is a real winner.

“I promised that I became Guv’na — which I now have after running two times — I promised to build a brand new stadium in the middle of (U.S.) 41 — for the (Tampa Bay) Rays!

“I will bring the Rays to Lutz!” he said, jokingly.

Past Lutz Guv’nas
2023 – Jerome Smalls
2022 – Atlas Cortecero
2019 – Amy Lancaster
2018 – Domenic Difante
2017 – Kori Rankin
2016 – Greg Gilbert
2015 – Jennifer Rankin
2014 – Dr. Cindy Perkins
2013 – Suzin Carr
2012 – Karen D’Amico
2011 – Kevin White
2010 – Stephanie Ensor
2009 – Suzin Carr
2008 – Teri Burgess
2007 – Michele Northrup
2006 – Edwina Kraemer
2005 – Liz Iaconetti
2004 – Dean Rivett
2003 – Joni Cagle
2002 – Brett Montegny
2001 – Helen Kinyon
2000 – Vince Arcuri
1999 – Danny Neeley
1998 – Sandy Ruberg
1997 – Earl Smith
1996 – Ben Nevel
1995 – Kay Dahman
1994 – Lorraine Dabney
1993 – Leslie Dennison
1992 – Betty Neeley
1991 – Jo Van Bebber

Published July 12, 2023