The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Aldi moves toward grand opening

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A new Aldi grocery store is nearing completion at the entrance to Tampa Premium Outlets, off State Road 56.

Another Aldi in Zephyrhills that has been stalled for years over relocation of a traffic signal is nearing final decisions, and a potential allocation of state funds.

An exterior look at the new Aldi expected to have its grand opening soon. It’s in Cypress Creek Town Center, not far from the Tampa Premium Outlets. (B.C. Manion)

But, coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) likely will determine the grand opening for the one off State Road 56, and the construction of the other, in Zephyrhills.

The store near the outlet mall is expected to open soon, an email statement from Matt Thon, Haines City Aldi division vice president, said.

“At Aldi, we know now, more than ever, our service to the communities we serve is critical during these unprecedented times,” Thon said. “We have been focusing all of our efforts on ensuring food and household goods are available in our existing stores.”

But, he added, Aldi is “working to open new stores where we can do so safely.”

The store’s contractors are moving forward with permits and inspections, according to county records.

Due to COVID-19, Pasco County is broadening its use of VUSPEX, a mobile video inspection application, to complete inspections.

The Aldi building is largely completed.

Aldi currently is hiring nationwide and for the Wesley Chapel store, Thon said.

No information on a construction start from Aldi is available currently on the Zephyrhills store.

However, the Florida Department of Transportation did approve the relocation of a traffic signal at Merchant’s Square and Townview shopping centers to U.S. 301 and Pretty Pond Road, clearing the way for the proposed Zephyrhills Aldi.

The relocation also includes a traffic signal to serve the shopping centers, according to Todd Vande Berg, Zephyrhills’ planning director.

Funding for the project is in the Florida budget, said Vande Berg.

But, shortfalls from unplanned expenditures related to the coronavirus pandemic could affect Florida’s budget.

A reallocation of funds could be coming, either from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ veto pen or potentially from a special legislative session.

“These are unusual times,” Vande Berg said. “Because of that, we don’t really know impacts on the budget.”

Earlier this year, Aldi opened a new store in Odessa. The store was part of a major expansion for the discount grocery chain, based in Illinois.

Those interested in working for Aldi, should visit Careers.Aldi.us.

Published May 13, 2020

Small businesses reopen in Pasco

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Only four people at a time can browse through Quilts on Plum Lane.

But, at least that’s a new beginning for a shop that has a long tradition in downtown Dade City.

Donna Lillibridge has been selling fabric, patterns and quilt kits for nearly 17 years.

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has thrown small businesses, such as this one, for a loop.

“This is something I’ve never seen in my life,” Lillibridge said. “There are a lot of great uncertainties.”

But, Lillibridge, along with other small business owners across Pasco County, are reopening their doors and waiting to see what comes next.

Since mid-March stores closed under an executive order by Gov. Ron DeSantis aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19, a deadly virus that has been cited for claiming nearly 79,000 lives across the nation.

DeSantis announced a phased-in restart of Florida’s economy, effective May 4.

Initially, restaurants and retail could open at 25% capacity and with space for social distancing. Restaurants also could have outdoor seating, provided the tables are at least 6 feet apart.

Pasco County officials also recently announced that restaurants could use parking lot space to expand space available for outdoor seating.

And, DeSantis announced that hair salons and barbershops could reopen effective May 11, provided they operate at 25% capacity, and follow safety protocols.

Movie theaters, gyms and bars remain closed.

Lillibridge had to furlough her employees.

During the shutdown, she got phone calls from customers, many wanting to make face masks. She would box up supplies and put them on the sidewalk for pickup.

“I think I gave out 1,500 yards of elastics,” she said.

On the first day back at work, Lillibridge waited for a friend who was going to help out at the store.

In Land O’ Lakes, Hungry Harry’s Family BBQ is fielding calls to reschedule catered parties that were canceled when the coronavirus struck.

Most of those are in August, said Jaime Bradford, Hungry Harry’s catering manager.

Takeout orders kept the restaurant going. But, indoor seating is now available at four tables. Another four tables are in an overflow room and five picnic tables can seat customers outside.

“Obviously we took a huge hit with catering,” Bradford said. But, owner Harry Wright “was able to keep a full staff and keep us paid. We’re excited and can’t wait to get back to normal.”

In Zephyrhills, the coronavirus tested the resilience and ingenuity of the owners of K & M Treasures and Antiques.

The antiques shop is a two-person operation that opened downtown in 2016. Kathy Stepp and Murph Murphy mostly fielded phone calls and made some online sales during the shutdown.

“It (shutdown) definitely hit sales really hard,” said Stepp. And, online sales could become a larger part of their business, she added.

For now, the shop is open and can easily meet social distancing requirements.

“The nature of our business is only a few people at a time are here,” she said. “We have plenty of stuff to keep everyone away from each other.”

Not many people stopped on the first day.

But, Stepp said, “I guess we’ve started. I hope it will pick up. We’re definitely trying to get more stuff online.”

Meanwhile, shop owners like her wait for more traffic in downtown.

Florida’s Phase 1 reopening
This is a summary of Florida  Gov. Ron DeSantis’ phase 1 reopening for Florida, excluding Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties:

  • Schools should distance learn through the end of the year
  • No visits allowed at long-term care facilities
  • Restaurants and shops may open at 25% capacity and must follow Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. Outdoor dining at restaurants is allowed with 6 feet distancing between tables.
  • Elective surgeries are allowed
  • Movie theaters and gyms are closed
  • Effective May 11, barbershops and hair salons could open with “enhanced safety protocols

Published May 13, 2020

There’s no stopping these women

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The GFWC Wesley Chapel Woman’s Club handed out thank-you notes to staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa. (Courtesy of GFWC Wesley Chapel Woman’s Club)

The GFWC Wesley Chapel Woman’s Club continues to be busy during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving back to the community and celebrating Club Federation Day.

The women distributed thank-you cards to first responders and essential workers at BayCare’s St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa, as well as to the manager of the Glory Days restaurant in Wesley Chapel, where the club’s first meeting was held.

Using their crafting skills, the women also sewed and embellished bears, called “Cuddle Bears.” They added little notes of kindness, and delivered the bears to Atria Assisted Living in Lutz.

And, they painted, distressed and arranged flowers in individual glass jars, again with individual notes, for Angels Senior Living at the Lodges, also in Lutz.

Shantel Meyers, from the woman’s club, said that “We still continue to do our work no matter what gets in our way. It’s our mission and we are all dedicated to it,” in an email to The Laker/Lutz News.

For information about the club, call Meyers at (813) 361-9542.

Published May 13, 2020

Members of the GFWC Wesley Chapel Woman’s Club hand-crafted glass jars with flowers for Angels Senior Living at the Lodges, in Lutz.

 

Tax collector offices reopen lobbies

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The Pasco County Tax Collector’s five offices have again begun to offer in-person lobby services, as of May 4. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Gulf Harbors and Wesley Chapel locations reopened on Saturdays, as of May 9, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, to serve Pasco County residents only.

Each office will maintain social distancing standards, such as limiting the number of individuals allowed in the office at one time.

Dealers may drop off and pick up work through the VIN check/drive-thru, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon.

No over-the-counter dealer work will be permitted.

These services will still not be available at this time: road tests, non-U.S., non-Pasco residents, and interpreter testing.

Customers are requested to wear face masks if at all possible, to protect themselves and those around them.

For information and updates, visit PascoTaxes.com, or call (813) 235-6076, (727) 847-8032 or (352) 521-4338.

Published May 13, 2020

A bit of help, for safety on the roadway

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As Floridians seek outdoor exercise during the COVID-19 pandemic, cities are seeing an increase in bicycling.

Members of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office received a donation of 500 bicycle helmets to distribute to children and those in need. (Courtesy of AAA-The Auto Group)

While the American Automobile Association (AAA) urges residents to follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it also wants to help to make sure people are safe when out on the roadway.

To promote bicycle safety, AAA-The Auto Club Group has donated 1,000 bicycle helmets to be distributed to children and others in need throughout Hillsborough County.

“School-aged children are staying closer to home right now, which means more time spent riding their bicycles. Florida law requires children 16 years and under to wear a helmet. Unfortunately, not everyone does,” said Mark Jenkins, AAA spokesman, in a news release.

That led AAA to partner with local law enforcement to ensure children can get a helmet if they do not have one, added Jenkins.

Recently, 500 helmets were delivered to both the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Tampa Police Department. Deputies and officers are planning to distribute the helmet.

For information on how to fit a helmet, COVID-related tips, and general bicycle safety, visit AAA’s Bike Basics Guide at tinyurl.com/y7wdcexz.

Published May 13, 2020

Congressman fields questions in virtual town hall

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U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis held a series of virtual town hall meetings recently, to field questions and share information regarding assistance available amid the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Bilirakis took part in a Zoom session with members of the North Tampa Bay Chamber on May 5.  He also had other sessions scheduled with other organizations, including The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce and The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce.

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis has been hosting virtual town halls meetings with local organizations to field questions and concerns about government assistance programs, in the midst of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. (File)

The congressman offered practical suggestions, and expressed empathy for the frustrations that local business owners and individuals are experiencing — in the wake of health concerns and  the financial meltdown caused by COVID-19.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported more than 1.3 million positive cases nationally and nearly 79,000 deaths.

Bilirakis told those participating in the virtual town hall that he has heard complaints about the process used for government assistance.

“Since the establishment of the Paycheck Protection Program, I’ve heard from countless small-town constituent business owners that the application process was difficult to navigate and that many lenders were not receptive to their needs. This is what we’ve been hearing, folks.

“It’s very frustrating to know that many well-known business chains received millions of dollars in program funds and that those applications may have been prioritized by lending institutions.  I emphasize ‘may,’” Bilirakis said.

He also noted that he has worked to have money specifically set aside in the PPP program to provide help for truly small businesses — those having 25 or fewer employees.

“Our nation’s family owned businesses, mom and pops, and self-proprietors are already competing with national and international competitors — particularly during good times, particularly with the Internet now. So they need the help,” Bilirakis said.

The set-aside, “was a reflection of my work,” the congressman said.

He’s also heard from small businesses who want greater flexibility on the forgiveness side of the loan.

“Some of the businesses haven’t been able to open, obviously, because of the executive order, plus it might not be safe to do so. So, there should be flexibility with that seven or eight weeks,” Bilirakis said.

“As we move forward, we need to find even better ways to ensure that our local businesses get the help they need in this or any future crisis,” Bilirakis said.

The nation needs to be prepared, in case the virus reoccurs in the fall, Bilirakis said.

Bilirakis also noted that he will be introducing legislation “that will do even more to provide direct support to the small businesses.”

“You know, you employ more than 50% of the employees. You create the jobs. You’re the innovators,” he told those listening in.

“Through no fault of your own, you’re not getting business. It’s because of the virus,” Bilirakis said.

“In these times, sometimes you throw out the playbook because people are desperate.

“They’ve invested a lot of their own money in these businesses. We want to save these mom-and-pop businesses, in particular.”

The congressman added: “I think in the next couple of weeks, we’ll have an additional package. What it’s going to look like? We’ll see.”

Bilirakis also addressed a concern that has been expressed about workers being reluctant to go to work because the government is providing a $600 a week federal payment, on top of state unemployment benefits.

He noted: “If you write the letter asking them to come back, then they’re not eligible for further unemployment.”

Summer Robertson, the congressman’s deputy chief of staff, elaborated: “If the employer puts the request for their employee to return to work in writing and the employee refuses it, and the employees continues to claim unemployment, that will be considered fraud and they will be prosecuting fraud.”

She said employers “need to have their employees understand that.”

Others taking part in the town hall expressed concerns about not being able to negotiate with their landlords for temporary relief on their lease payments. Bilirakis suggested they call his office to see if the office can help them find solutions to that problem.

Robertson also touched on the importance of testing to secure data that’s needed to help get the nation reopened.

“The No. 1 thing that the health professionals keep telling us on these calls is that best way that we can help save lives is by identifying who might be impacted.

“The more people who get it, the better criteria that we have, the better decisions we can make, based upon that data,” she said.

Robertson also said: “Just today, Pfizer announced that it is moving into human trials for its possible vaccine for COVID. That process has been ramped up.

“When you have the vaccine available, you’re better to contain the death count,” Robertson said.

Bilirakis also addressed the problems that the state of Florida has been having with its unemployment system.

He noted it’s a state issue, not a federal matter.

But, he added: “It is a huge problem. The governor has recognized that, and there’s an ongoing investigation.”

Although it is a state issue, Bilirakis said his office is helping people by trying to find out the status of specific cases, he said.

Robertson added: “There are a lot of people in terrible situations — haven’t received income in two months, and we’re doing the best we can to communicate those frustrations and those concerns with the state.”

She also said that people who need information on the government’s stimulus checks can go to .

If you’d like additional information about government loans or assistance programs, or have other questions, you can reach Bilirakis’ office at (727) 232-2921.

Published May 13, 2020

Deal approved to merge fire departments

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a merger between Pasco Fire Rescue and the Zephyrhills Fire Department.

The approval came on May 4, which followed the Zephyrhills City Council’s approval of the merger on April 27.

Pasco Fire Rescue Chief Scott Cassin outlined benefits of merging the departments.

The merger represents the end of an era for the Zephyrhills Fire Department, which has been in existence for more than 100 years. Negotiations to hammer out the terms of the deal took about 10 months.

The merger provides benefits for both the city and the county, Cassin said.

It will enable the county to respond more quickly to emergencies, since it will have two additional fire stations.

Those fire stations each will be equipped with ambulances, too, which the county will move from stations that have two, Cassin added.

The county will be acquiring all of the equipment currently at those stations, which includes a ladder truck, Cassin said.

That will give Pasco Fire Rescue greater capability in responding to high-rise firefighting on the east side of the county, Cassin said.

The merger also will create a unified dispatch for 911 calls. Currently the city has its own 911 center and handles its own calls.

Under the agreement, the two dozen full-time employees that are currently employed by the City of Zephyrhills will become county employees.

The cadet program established in Zephyrhills will continue, but will operate under the same umbrella as the county’s cadet program, which is in West Pasco, Cassin said.

Having both programs will minimize the drive time for some of the students that participate, he said.

The City of Zephyrhills also has a robust volunteer program. That program also will merge into the county and join the other four volunteer programs that already were in Pasco Fire Rescue, Cassin said.

The fire stations will be renamed from Station 1 and Station 2 to Station 25 and Station 29, he said.

Implementation of the agreement will be Sept. 27, according to documents approved on May 4.

At the same meeting, county commissioners approved an amendment to the county’s Municipal Service Taxing Unit boundaries for fire rescue services to include the City of Zephyrhills.

Commissioner Ron Oakley praised the county and the City of Zephyrhills for reaching an agreement.

“It’s a great thing. This is just an awesome move, I think, for the betterment of our community,” Oakley said.

Commissioner Jack Mariano agreed: “I really want to applaud the City of Zephyrhills for taking a look at what’s best for their taxpayers. It’s better for them, it’s better for the county — to work seamlessly together.

“It’s going to save everybody a lot of money, and give them better service,” Mariano said.

Published May 13, 2020

Tampa YMCA receives grant for child care

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United Way Suncoast has granted the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA a $50,000 gift, to help ensure working families in Tampa Bay have access to child care.

The emergency funds are part of a more than $1.2 million in COVID-19 emergency assistance from the United Way Suncoast’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund being distributed to human services agencies across the Suncoast to support housing/shelter, food, child care, financial stability and mental health services, according to a news release.

“Schools play such a vital role in keeping kids safe, engaged and nourished. While school’s out, there is a huge gap in the community to provide those services,” Matt Mitchell, Tampa YMCA president and CEO, said in the release.

“Thanks to the generous support of United Way Suncoast, the Y can provide a safe and nurturing environment for the children of first responders, health care professionals and other essential workers who play important roles keeping us safe and healthy. This generous gift helps the Y serve these critical needs at a very nominal fee for these individuals who are risking a lot. We want to make sure, at least in this part of their life, they can have some normalcy and not have any worry. At this crucial moment, when our communities need us more than ever, we appreciate the continued support of community partners, like United Way Suncoast,” Mitchell said.

The Tampa YMCA will use the funds to offer all-day youth relief care at 11 centers, for families who must continue to work during the COVID-19 crisis while their kids are out of school. The Y’s youth relief care program provides academic support and structure to help children maintain their learning while also enjoying enriching activities.

Published May 13, 2020

Class of 2020: Graduations delayed

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The public school districts in Pasco and Hillsborough counties have announced delayed graduation ceremonies to help seniors mark their rite of passage during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hillsborough County public school graduations will be held in July, according to a district announcement.

Pasco County graduations will be held in August, Pasco County Superintendent Kurt Browning said, during the Pasco County School Board’s April 21 virtual meeting.

“We know that students and parents are anxious to know what these plans are,” Browning said.

“As soon as the dates are set in August, we will push those dates out to moms and dads, and the students and the school administrators,” he said.

The superintendent also said that a virtual celebration is being planned, in the interim.

“We believe it’s important to mark the final week of school with a celebration, so staff is working on a virtual celebration leading up to the last week,” Browning said.

School Board Chairwoman Colleen Beaudoin said, “I really want to thank the superintendent and staff for sharing their plans for graduation, because I have gotten quite a few phone calls and comments from people in our community, and everyone is very concerned about recognizing our seniors. And, I know all of us and all of you share that angst.”

Board member Megan Harding said she wanted to let seniors know that she understands “how heartbreaking” the news was, that students would not return to campus and that graduations would be delayed.

“I want to remind them to finish strong and know that we’re cheering you on, and we are going to be creative and find ways to honor the Class of 2020,” Harding said.

The revised Hillsborough public school graduation dates are listed on that district’s website. As of this time, here are the dates and times set for high schools that are in, or near, The Laker/Lutz News coverage area are:

  • Freedom: July 18, 9 a.m.
  • Gaither: July 15, 9 a.m.
  • Steinbrenner, July 16, 8 p.m.
  • Wharton, July 17, 12:30 p.m.
  • Sickles, July 20, 4 p.m.

All of the Hillsborough County ceremonies are scheduled to take place at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall.

Published May 06, 2020

Florida takes first step to reopen

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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis began the first phase of reopening the state this week — after ordering all but essential businesses and activities to close down on  April 3.

The new “Safe. Smart. Step-by-Step” order institutes a phase one reopening throughout the state, except in  Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Gov. Ron DeSantis

Under phase one, schools will remain in distance learning through the end of the school year, and no visitors will be allowed to long-term facilities — as has been the case.

But, the first phase does allow:

  • Elective surgeries
  • Outdoor dining at restaurants, with 6 feet between tables; and indoor dining, at 25% capacity
  • Retail shopping at 25% capacity, and businesses must follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention distancing guidelines

The first phase of the governor’s order does not allow reopening of movie theaters, gyms, bars or hair salons.

The state is taking deliberate steps in reopening, DeSantis said, in a televised news conference.

“It will not be like turning off a switch,” he said.

He expects the state to move from one phase to the next, in a matter of weeks not months, unless the data indicates otherwise.

“If we’re making progress, we need to continue to put people back to work in a safe, smart and step-by-step way,” DeSantis said.

“The government needs to protect health, but we should not go beyond what is necessary to do that,” he said.

“This current crisis has impacted — one way or another — all 21 ½ million Floridians in life-changing ways,” the governor said.

He said some small businesses have seen their life’s work “practically devastated overnight.

“Working parents have had to juggle the new reality of distance learning, all the while trying to put food on the table.

“Our kids have not seen their friends from school for at least six weeks. School sports and plays and activities have gone up in smoke — depriving kids of some of the best times in their lives.

“Traditional graduations have been cancelled, and so have senior proms. These moments, will be forever lost.

“And, of course, our kids haven’t been able to see their grandparents,” he said.

DeSantis urged those most vulnerable to protect themselves.

“If you’re 65 and up, if you have a significant underlying condition, you need to avoid crowds, avoid close contact with people outside your household. Stay home as much as you can,” he said.

He asked others to help protect them, too.

“The most important social distancing we can do is to distance the most vulnerable from those who are not. Because if you’re not vulnerable, you may be a carrier of this and not have symptoms or not know it, and you have a risk to pass it along,” he said.

In general, social groups should remain 10 or fewer, he said.

The governor also recommends that individuals wear face masks, when they are in face-to-face interactions and when they cannot maintain a safe social distance.

Pasco County reopenings
The Pasco County Commission is following the governor’s guidelines, in slowly reopening county locations, with limited services.

Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles

“The county, as a whole, is in a good place to get ready to start cracking back open,” County Administrator Dan Biles said during an April 24 virtual town hall meeting, hosted by Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey.

The county has already opened some areas for recreation and plans to use a phased approach for reopening libraries, Biles said.

“Our customer service counters are probably going to stay the way they are for a while.

“Whether you come in and drop something off, and we come and then we come pick it up. Or, drive-thru only, like our utility service areas.

“Operationally, we have probably a quarter of the county, to a third of the county, working from home, right now, and they stay working from home, until we get to a phase two or phase three,” Biles said.

The arrangement is working so well for some staffers that they may be able to continue working at home, even after the restrictions are lifted, Biles said.

The county already has reopened the West Pasco Resource Recovery Facility, the East Paco Transfer Station and the standalone recyclables drop-off locations for residential waste and recycling disposal. The change restores services that previously limited residential drop-offs, between April 4 and April 25.

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano’s offices re-opened on May 4 for in-person lobby services.

Hours of operation will be Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Gulf Harbors and Wesley Chapel offices will be open on Saturdays beginning May 9 from 8:30 a.m. to noon, for Pasco County residents only.

Each office will maintain social distancing standards, such as limiting the number of individuals allowed in the office at one time.

Dealers may drop off and pick up work through the VIN check/drive-thru Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. No over-the -counter dealer work will be permitted.

To protect themselves and those around them customers are requested to wear face masks if at all possible. For more information, visit PascoTaxes.com.

Emergency leaders in Hillsborough County also have announced they will align the community’s COVID-19 recovery with the governor’s plan, and will not take more restrictive actions.

Keep yourself safe
Pasco County continues to encourage individuals to follow the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention and Florida Department of Health (DOH) guidelines and best practices. Those include:

  • Avoid social gatherings in groups of more than 10 people
  • Practice social distancing of at least 6 feet
  • Use online service options, when available
  • Stay home if you feel sick, and contact your medical provider
  • Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, using soap and water. When that’s not available, use hand sanitizer.
  • Wear cloth face coverings in public, when social distancing is difficult

Published May 06, 2020