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Navigating the choppy waters of divorce

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It’s that time of year, when bakeries, florists and jewelers are busy — in the approach to Valentine’s Day.

It can be a time of love, affection and euphoria — but also can be a painful trigger for those struggling through the turmoil of divorce.

For one Wesley Chapel woman, it’s a time when existing or new clients may feel a particular need to turn to her for support.

Going through a divorce takes an emotional toll and has impacts within the family, on finances and living arrangements, said Hayley Lisa Botha, a divorce coach. (B.C. Manion)

Hayley Lisa Botha, of Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching, helps people take control of their divorce process.

Divorce is more than a legal process, said Botha, who goes by Hayley Lisa to her clients and friends. It’s a transition — affecting relationships within a family, finances and living arrangements — while taking a toll on emotions.

And, that emotional toll can compromise decision-making, Hayley Lisa said.

That’s why she thinks it’s important to enlist the aid of someone who has been trained to help people going through a divorce, to get from where they are to where they want to be.

“A divorce coach can give you unbiased advice,” said Hayley Lisa, who knows the challenges firsthand.

She’s been divorced twice.

She’s familiar with the turmoil it can cause, and the swirl of emotions that can take over.

“You’re going to be a train-wreck,” she said.

When confronted by divorce, many have no idea what to do, or where to turn for help, she said.

“That’s why I love to help people sort through all of the emotions they are feeling, and just gain some clarity, so they can be in a better position,” she said. “I truly believe it (divorce) can be done with integrity and with maturity.”

She sees her role as being a sounding board, and serving as a guide to help clients build a network of professionals to assist them.

When someone approaches her for help, the first thing Hayley Lisa wants to know is where they are in the process: Are they thinking about divorce, or is the marriage really over?

“Make sure the marriage is really over before taking steps to get divorced because once you do that — everything seems to change and sometimes you can’t go back,” she said.

She doesn’t advise people on whether to pursue a divorce, but once that decision has been made, she works with clients to tackle the practical and emotional challenges.

Knowing your financial status is essential, she said.

“Some people think that they’re OK, until they run a credit score and they realize ‘Oh boy, I’m  not even going to be able to get a credit card in my own name,’” she said.

It’s important to choose an attorney, too. She recommends consulting with at least two before selecting one.

“You have to know that attorney is with you and that your values will align. Maybe you want to go through the mediation process. Maybe you want to go collaborative law,” she said. Or, in some cases, litigation is needed.

“If you start this process with an attorney who’s not going to have your best interests at heart, then you’re going to be in a world of trouble,” she said.

Hayley Lisa said she listens to her clients without passing judgment.

“I become their thinking partner in the divorce process. I help them build what’s now going to be their new normal,” she said.

That new normal often involves co-parenting, which can be particularly challenging, she said.

This can be an area where ex-spouses push each other’s buttons, she said. Resist the temptation and take the high road, she advised.

“You’re going to have to sometimes swallow your pride and your ego, and do what’s best for your children,” she said.

She offers clients help with co-parenting issues. “That is such a whole new arena for most people,” she said.

It’s also important to be careful who you listen to, Hayley Lisa said.

While family and friends care about you, they aren’t unbiased, and typically aren’t qualified to give expert advice, she said.

She offers a free consultation to potential clients, and in addition to offering her services on a sliding scale, she also runs a free divorce support group. There are three upcoming support group sessions planned at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Collier Parkway.

“It’s just a safe environment where people can share with others, who might be further along in the process, or just beginning,” she said, describing the support group.

“When you are going through a divorce, there’s so much shame that people feel. They feel stigmatized. In the support group, there’s no judgment. We’ve all been there.”

Want to know more?

Call Hayley Lisa Botha at (561) 339-3711; check the website at EmergeStrongDivorceCoaching.com; or, email her at .

Hayley’s 10 commandments
No. 1: Make sure the marriage is really over.
No. 2: Get a divorce coach or therapist.
No. 3: Become informed and take control of your divorce process. If you aren’t already aware of your financial state, find out. Gather financial statements, run a credit check.
No. 4: Put your kids first. Do what’s best for the kids, even if it hurts you.
No. 5: Get good legal advice and build a team of professionals.
No. 6: Do not speak negatively about your soon-to-be ex-spouse.
No. 7: Be careful who you listen to. Your family and your friends love you, but they’re not unbiased and they’re not divorce experts, either.
No. 8: Don’t use your lawyer as your divorce coach or therapist. Lawyers are trained in law, not emotions.
No. 9: Be kind to yourself. Divorce is tough enough, don’t make it worse by letting go of your health.
No. 10: Don’t fight it out at all costs. Don’t insist on getting every last penny you feel you are due, do what you can to settle your case amicably. Your children will thank you.

Source: Hayley Lisa Botha, Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching Services

Free divorce support groups
Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching offers free divorce support groups for men and women who would like some support and guidance, while going through this difficult and often overwhelming time. Sessions will be at the Land O’Lakes Branch Library meeting room, 2818 Collier Parkway.

The February schedule is as follows:

  • Feb. 15: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 18: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 29: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more information on the support groups, call (561) 339-3711, or visit Facebook.com/EmergeStrongDivorceCoaching.

Published February 05, 2020

SMARTstart helps Pasco entrepreneurs get off the ground

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Ever wanted to create your own business or startup?

If you do, the Pasco Economic Development Council’s (Pasco EDC) SMARTstart program may be able to lend a hand, or two.

Essentially, the program is designed to assist entrepreneurs — through a combination of guidance, collaboration, funding, education and workspace opportunities.

Dan Mitchell manages the Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart program. (Courtesy of Pasco Economic Development Council)

SMARTstart program manager Dan Mitchell detailed many of those offerings, at last month’s Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting Seven Springs Golf Club in New Port Richey.

Mitchell told those gathered: “If you’re an entrepreneur somewhere in the startup phase, or first couple years, we probably have a program that can help benefit you at some point during that journey. You just have to ask.”

Pasco EDC is a private, nonprofit organization that promotes countywide economic development, and is partnered and funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County.

Through SMARTstart, it operates two business incubators. One is in Dade City and the other in New Port Richey.

Each offers its own set of unique features, along with affordable desk spaces and professional meeting spaces with Wi-Fi connections.

One of the newer features at the Dade City site, for instance, is an incubator commercial kitchen. It aims to help those looking to launch a food business beyond farmer’s markets and vendor fairs.

Operating at 15029 14th St., the facility features a six-burner range, a single-door refrigerator, a single-door freezer, an under-the-counter ice machine, shelving, and stainless steel work tables. Mitchell said it helps food entrepreneurs facilitate wholesale distribution “to grow to that next level.”

Pasco EDC’s location in West Pasco offers its own digital media studio for podcasting, recording commercials and so on. It comes furnished with a high-quality sound board, four boom mics, green screens and white screens, which can all be used.

In Mitchell’s words, it’s “super neat.”

SMARTstart also offers educational classes, workshops and coaching to aspiring entrepreneurs. The learning sessions cover such topics as cybersecurity, crowdfunding, YouTube and social media marketing. There also are monthly entrepreneur roundtables, often facilitated by retired corporate executives who share their expertise.

Mitchell underscored the value of sessions where fellow entrepreneurs brainstorm, receive mentorship, and discover they’re not alone in their problems or roadblocks of starting a business.

The Pasco Economic Development Council’s SMARTstart program assists entrepreneurs and small business owners through a combination of guidance, collaboration, funding, education and workspace opportunities.

“We know that being an entrepreneur is hard,” he said.

SMARTstart also opens the door for more business-to-business connection for startup entrepreneurs.

The Pasco EDC’s ongoing partnerships with local chambers of commerce, colleges and universities, CareerSource and others, Mitchell said, so it can help business owners make a variety of connections.

In other words, the Pasco EDC’s deep ties throughout the community gives entrepreneurs a chance to network with people they otherwise would never meet.

“We can’t force business to happen, but we can set the table,” Mitchell said.

SMARTstart even has a microloan business financing program, designed for those that can’t secure a loan from a typical bank.

Loans are available for up to $50,000, coming from a revolving fund that must be paid back eventually. To qualify, an entrepreneur or small business owner must demonstrate the experiences and resources to be successful, Mitchell said.

Microloan proceeds may be used for working capital, inventory, supplies, furniture and fixtures, or machinery and equipment.

The program has loaned out a total of $1.5 million to 57 businesses since being established about five years ago, Mitchell said.

The microloan program helps fill a needed niche in business financing, Mitchell said.

“If you’re a startup and the bank says, ‘Sorry, we’re not going to give you money, you’re brand new,’ come to us. We’ll talk to you, we’ll walk you through the process. You still have to have what it takes, but maybe it’s not what the bank is looking for, and just call me and we’ll talk about that,” Mitchell said.

Pasco EDC and SMARTstart also have other initiatives in the works.

They recently sponsored a free mobile application called Startup Space, for Pasco County-based entrepreneurs. It’s similar to a Facebook group, Mitchell said, but just for local entrepreneurs, where they can communicate with one another in real-time, seek advice, post business events and more.

He said of the app, “You can get a little more granular with your questions, and help each other out, ‘Hey, does anyone have a good CPA?’”

The Pasco EDC also is organizing a new event called, “Grow Pasco,” that will bring together about 200 entrepreneurs on May 9 at the Hyatt Place Tampa/Wesley Chapel.

The event’s keynote speaker will be Kevin Harrington, who’s credited with creating the television infomercial and was an original panelist on ABC’s “Shark Tank” hit television series.

The event also will have other guest speakers, panels, workshops and breakout sessions.

For more information, visit PascoEDC.com, or call (813) 926-0827.

Published February 05, 2020

New route for Pasco Fair parade

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This annual Pasco County Fair parade will take on a few new twists and turns this year in downtown Dade City.

The parade, set for Feb. 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., will travel an alternate route, due to ongoing road closures and construction associated with the city’s downtown stormwater improvement project.

Country music star Billy Dean is grand marshal of the Pasco County Fair parade. (Courtesy of Pasco County Fair Association)

According to a news release from the Pasco County Fair Association, the alternate route will begin at Rodney B. Cox Elementary School on Dr. Martin Luther King Boulevard and turn south on Seventh Street until Meridian Avenue. The parade will then turn east on Meridian Avenue and continue until Third Street, ending on Live Oak Avenue.

In prior years, the parade has traveled along Seventh Street from Meridian to Florida Avenue. The event represents a kickoff to the weeklong 73rd annual Pasco County Fair, which runs from Feb. 17 through Feb. 23.

Pasco County Fair chairman and board member Tracy Thompson commended the City of Dade City for accommodating the new route, in the release.

Thompson said: “Unforeseen road construction almost disrupted the parade. But, the city has worked with us to establish an alternate route. We are thankful to them. Otherwise there would be a lot of disappointed children and adults.”

This year’s parade grand marshal is Grammy Award-winning country music star Billy Dean, who also will present an acoustical concert that evening at 7 p.m., at the Clayton Way Stage, with former American Idol contestant Chloe Channell.

Dean has released 11 albums, and has been recognized with several awards and nominations during the course of his 25-plus year music career. The Quincy native also has performed and toured with some of the country music industry’s biggest stars, including The Judds, Kenny Rogers, Clint Black, Alan Jackson, Wynonna Judd and others.

In addition to Dean, the parade will feature many colorful floats, and horse and buggies, and school marching bands, a tradition that dates back some 70-plus years.

Entry in the parade is free, with a Feb. 7 entry deadline. The lineup will be based on those entries, but others will be accepted until 5 p.m., Feb. 12.

Information and applications for the parade are available online at PascoCountyFair.com, or by calling the Fair office at (352) 567-6678. The fair will open at 2 pm. on Feb. 17, at the fairgrounds on State Road 52 in Dade City, and continue through Feb. 23.

Published February 05, 2020

Neighbors battle townhomes near Lake Thomas

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Residents living near Lake Thomas are fighting a proposed townhome project, on approximately 42 acres, on the west side of U.S. 41, about one-half mile north of Ehren Cutoff, in Land O’ Lakes.

Barbara Wilhite, an attorney representing the applicant, appeared at the Jan. 23 Pasco County Planning Commission hearing, seeking a change to the county’s land use plan to increase the potential density on the site from three dwellings per acre to six dwellings per acre.

Obtaining the land use change is just the first step in the process. A rezoning also would be required before the townhomes could be built.

Wilhite said her client is aiming for a 218-unit townhome project on the property, which represents a density of 4.8 units per acre.

She said meetings have been held with neighbors and, as a result, conditions will be included with the rezoning request to address concerns that have been raised.

Several neighbors voiced objections during the public hearing.

Shirley Schmidt, 21133 Marsh Hawk Drive, Land O’ Lakes, who lives at The Preserve at Lake Thomas, said 300 feet of her property is immediately adjacent to the subject property.

The developer has listened, but she still objects, she said.

“He’s made revisions to address many of our concerns, but there is one overwhelming objection that cannot be mitigated if this project is approved — density, and its impact on traffic.

“The Ridge Road extension project, which is going forward within a few years, will dump a huge flow of traffic onto (U.S.) 41, just north of where this project is located.

“That alone will result in an unbearable increase in the traffic volume. Now, add yet another 400 vehicles from this project, and you’ll be one step closer to total gridlock.

“The traffic light at 41 and Ehren Cutoff is dangerous already. Residents from the proposed townhouse development, who need to go north, will be turning south onto 41 and crossing three lanes of traffic in the space of approximately 200 yards, to do a U-turn. That southbound turn lane creates a blind zone for those headed north and attempting to turn into our subdivision.

“We, in The Preserve at Lake Thomas, lost a resident not less than three months ago to a horrible accident, with this exact scenario.

“Please protect the rights and safety of the existing residents with your ‘No’ vote on this project,” she urged planning commissioners.

Scott Hitt, of 21008 Little Lake Thomas Road, is concerned about impacts of intensifying development.

“You get a bunch of people piled in on top of each other and you’re going to get stuff that starts happening. Right now, we leave our doors unlocked. We have stuff all over the place. Nothing goes missing. It’s kind of a cool place. It’s a gem that’s hidden away in here.

He urged commissioners to reject the request: “It’s not a good fit.”

“We’re not against development. Development is good, just not R-6.”

Planning Commission Chairman Charles Grey asked: “What is good?”

“R-3 (the current land use) is good,” Hitt replied.

Joe Seidle, of 20955 Lake Thomas Road, has lived in the area since 1982.

“We’re not saying we’re anti-growth. We’re saying, ‘It’s too many units,’” Seidle said.

“I haven’t heard one compelling need to change the land use. It’s Res-3, why are we changing it?”

Kathy Eshleman, of 5419 Shell Road, turned in two petitions with signatures from 99 people who couldn’t attend, but are opposed to the request.

She voiced her opposition, and she told planning commissioners she would prefer the development of single-family homes, within the existing density.

Other speakers objected to the intensification of development and voiced concerns about the

potential impacts on traffic, drainage and the quality of Lake Thomas.

Changing Land O’ Lakes’ character?
Ed Bly, of 21117 Lake Thomas Road, asked planning commissioners to consider the precedent that change would set. “This decision will forever change all of Land O’ Lakes, not just the Little Lake Thomas community,” Bly said.

Jane Smith, of 5353 School Road, Land O’ Lakes, is worried about the impacts to the lake, as more people move into the area. “I’m concerned about the runoff, with 218 units.”

Wilhite brought a team of experts to talk about her client’s intentions for the project.

Alexis Crespo, a certified land use planner with Waldrop Engineering, said the client recognizes that a binding project plan and conditions are important, in order for his request to be successful.

Many changes have already been made to the plan, in response to concerns that have been raised, she said.

For instance, the proposed access to the site will be directly from U.S. 41.

Also, the units will be clustered internally to limit impact from the buildings on adjacent single-family residences.

The units also will be limited to four-unit townhomes, two stories in height, she said, and the project will have substantial buffering.

The conditions for the proposed rezoning also address concerns about boat access to Lake Thomas, she said.

“This will have a passive boardwalk for residents, but no motorized or non-motorized boats will be able to access the lake from this project.”

She said the proposed project is consistent with the county’s vision for infill development in areas where there are water, sewer, schools and roadways to serve it.

She also noted that townhomes represents a diversity in type of residential development, and said many beautiful master-planned communities within Pasco County regularly incorporate housing diversity within their communities.

Steve Henry, of Lincks & Associates, said the additional traffic generated from the change compared to what’s currently permitted would have a negligible effect on U.S. 41.

He also noted the developer plans to put a right-turn lane in and a right-turn out lane at the project’s driveway.

Roy Mazur, professional engineer with WRA Engineering, said the project would not be allowed to cause flooding to on-site or off-site property, or to create adverse impacts on water quality.

“Even though a lot of the site will be impervious — there will be concrete, asphalt, buildings — our discharge in the developed condition cannot exceed that the discharge of the existing condition. That’s why the (retention) ponds are there,” Mazur said.

Wilhite also noted that the installation of the boardwalk will prevent access to the lake.

Chief Assistant County Attorney David Goldstein noted that Crespo had presented a site plan that had more detail than is typically included in a master unit plan development.

He asked Wilhite if the zoning request for the master plan unit development will have a detailed plan that will be adopted with the zoning.

Wilhite said her client is willing to document commitments, but hasn’t finalized the plan that will accompany the rezoning request.

“Nobody likes us to say things and then not do them. I get that. That’s not our intent,” Wilhite said.

Planning Commissioner Michael Cox asked Wilhite if her client is committed to proposed conditions contained in the master plan unit development narrative, including no access onto Little Lake Thomas Road, no boat access onto Lake Thomas and buffering requirements.

Wilhite said: “That’s correct.”

“It seems to me that these conditions address a ton of the concerns of residents,” Cox said.

Wilhite also noted: “The boardwalk concept was put in place as a means of enforcing what we say, which is no motorized, or non-motorized access to Lake Thomas.”

It provides a barrier to keep boats out, she explained.

Chairman Grey said,  “We’re here really to talk about the number of units we want to allow on the site. Personally, I think maybe R-6 is a little bit too intense.”

The planning commission voted 4-3 to recommend approval of the requested land use change.

Commissioners Richard Tonello, Peter Hanzel and Chairman Grey voted no.

The issue now goes to the Pasco County Commission, which makes final land use and zoning decisions in the county.

The County Commission is scheduled to consider the request on Feb. 18 at 1:30 p.m., in the board chambers at West Pasco Government Center, 8731 Citizens Drive in New Port Richey.

Published February 05, 2020

Farm festival still draws a crowd, despite rain

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A poor forecast could not deter fans from the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village’s annual Farm Festival and Quilt Show.

The horse pull team of Tom Bowman of Orangeville, Pennsylvania, is seen competing in Round 2 of the lightweight class competition. The two horses, George and Willie, successfully pulled 3,600 pounds and moved onto the next round. (Christine Holtzman)

Despite rain, the Feb. 1 event at the Dade City venue drew a large crowd — as people toured the museum and watched demonstrations throughout the day.

Several dozen quilts were on display at the quilt show, and there were table runners and accessories, too. That exhibit was offered in the Mabel Jordan Barn.

Visitors had a chance to vote on their favorite quilts in a “People’s Choice” competition.

They could weigh in on seven different categories, including: machine-pieced quilts, hand-pieced quilts, applique quilts, art quilts, miniature quilts, quilted fashions/accessories, and junior exhibitor.

Winners of each category took home a ribbon, plus bragging rights.

Twelve-year-old Abigail Morreale, of Lutz, stands next to her quilt, ‘Stars & Flowers,’ that she submitted into the Junior Exhibitor division of the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village’s quilt show on Feb. 1. This is the fifth year she’s entered the competition, and she previously has won first-place ribbons twice. Her grandmother, Patrice Neville, of Land O’ Lakes, and her grandmother’s friend, Mary Smith, both taught Morreale how to quilt when she was 8 years old.

Many of the quilts and accessories also were available to be purchased.

Brenda Grampsas, a certified quilt appraiser, also was there, available to provide written appraisals or verbal evaluations, for a fee.

There were other vendors at the festival, too, offering handmade goods and concessions.

Festival-goers also could see sugar cane grinding and syrup making.

The draft horse pulling contest, presented by the Southern Draft Horse Association, was popular.

Horse pulling is a sport were two draft horses are hitched to a truck equipped with a hydraulic weight machine, called a dynamometer. The horses then pull the weighted machine a short distance. If successful, the team moves on to the next round, and the weight is slightly increased. This process continues until just one team remains.

Waiting to be called for their Round 2 attempt, draft horses Rowdy and Harley, with team Adams/Specht of Orangeville, Pennsylvania, patiently wait with team members by the fence.

A total of 37 teams (19 in the lightweight class, 18 in the heavyweight class) took part in the competition. Nearly all the draft horses in the competition are of the Belgian breed, with only one horse being a Percheron.

Thirteen different states, including Florida, were represented in the show. Many teams travelled from as far away as Vermont, Michigan, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Kentucky and New Hampshire.

Terry Yoder, the president of the Southern Draft Horse Association, said that this Dade City competition draws in the “best of the best teams” and that winning is not about the cash prize, it’s about the pride. He also said this year was a special year, because it is the first time that there were four women competing in the sport that is typically dominated by men.

During an intermission – while the crew placed chains on the truck’s tires, due to muddy conditions on the course – announcer Carlene Davis told spectators about the origins of the sport, which date back to the 1920s. The activity was a way to accurately measure horsepower in the days when horses, not machines, did all heavy work around farms, she said.

She also noted how the research data collected in those days helped farmers subsequently produce a more powerful draft horse.

And, she noted that modern-day horse pulls remain a valuable part of our agricultural history.

Published February 05, 2020

A colorful quilt entered into the ‘People’s Choice’ competition, hangs inside the Mabel Jordan Barn, at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village in Dade City. This quilt, which measure 74 inches by 79 inches, was created by Pansy Rush, of Dade City. It was entered in the ‘Machine Pieced Quilt’ division of the contest.
Mijke and Wyatt, two Belgian draft horses with the Bowman/Root, Brown & Carpenter team from Litchfield, Michigan, make their way toward the truck for their Round 2 attempt at pulling 3,600 pounds.

Slow down, move over – for safety

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The American Automobile Association (AAA) is urging drivers to help protect the lives of tow truck operators and first responders, by launching the Slow Down, Move Over campaign.

The towing industry is 15 times deadlier than all other private industries combined — one tow operator is killed in the line of duty every other week in the United States, according to a AAA news release.

While all 50 states have Move Over Laws for emergency responders, which includes tow trucks, fewer than 30% of Americans know about these laws, according to the National Highway Safety Administration.

In Florida, the Move Over Law requires drivers to:

  • Move over as soon as it is safe to do so for any authorized vehicles displaying visible signs while stopped on the roadside.
  • Slow down to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching an emergency vehicle with lights flashing parked on the side of a two-lane road, and proceed with caution.
  • Change lanes if you can, or reduce your speed to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when you see the flashing lights of an emergency vehicle on the side of a multi-lane roadway.
  • Slow down and maintain a safe speed while passing, if you are unable to move over due to road or weather conditions, or traffic congestion.

Failure to adhere to the Move Over Law can result in a $60 fine.

Drivers should Slow Down and Move Over for stopped vehicles, including tow trucks or wreckers; law enforcement; fire department; emergency medical service; Department of Transportation; and, utility and sanitation service.

For information on the laws, visit DrivingLaws.aaa.com.

Published February 05, 2020

Starkey Gap project poses safety issues

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The ‘soft opening’ of the Starkey Gap Trail has generated some concerns about safety.

The new segment of trail creates a connection between Pasco and Pinellas counties, and is an important link in the Coast to Coast Connector Trail, running from Saint Petersburg to Titusville.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey has been instrumental in pushing the Starkey Gap Trail forward. The pathway would be a part of the Coast to Coast Connector Trail, running from Saint Petersburg to Titusville. (File)

The estimated $2.6 million Starkey Gap Trail project starts south of Trinity Boulevard, in Pinellas County, heads north connecting to State Road 54 and goes west on the corridor to intersect with Starkey Boulevard.

The Starkey Gap Trail isn’t officially open yet, but that hasn’t stopped people from using it, said Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey.

Starkey has noticed a safety concern involving those walking the north end to the south end of State Road 54, to get to the trail.

As she put it: “They have been left in the little strip of concrete in the middle of State Road 54, absolutely terrified.”

She’s been vocal about getting an overpass over State Road 54, to solve that problem.

The overpass could would connect the north end and south end of the corridor, while avoiding motorists.

Starkey said she’s been discussing short-term solutions with David Gwynn, secretary for the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT) district seven.

The state is looking into potential funding sources, she said.

Starkey said a proper trailhead is needed too, to discourage those who use the trail from parking on the grass along Trinity Boulevard. A trailhead typically is located where the trail begins, and includes parking, so people can unload their bicycles.

It would be a means of offsetting parking buildup for establishments, and their patrons, off of Trinity Boulevard – such as Fox Hollow Golf Club and Restaurant.

Starkey noted: “If you’ve ever tried to park there for a lunch meeting or anything, [there] is very small parking. They’ve even had to pull off to the grass under the trees on the right.

“They’re not going to be happy if people are parking in their parking lot, for the trail, which goes right by there.”

Pasco County did not include the installation of a trailhead in its original plans for the project, but Starkey said she and Sam Beneck, a county project manager, have “identified a couple places that could be a temporary trailhead,” including Duke Energy property.

Advocating for trails and trail safety is nothing new for Starkey.

She frequently asks questions about potential trail connections during Pasco County Commission public hearings, to make sure potential linkages are protected.

She also is known for her work in the arena of bicycle safety, receiving the 2018 Elected Official Champion of the Year from the Florida Bicycle Association.

In bestowing the honor last year, Becky Alfonso, executive director of the association, praised Starkey’s work.

“Her experience, tenacity and public service record are admirable and inspirational,” Alfonso said, at the time.

Published February 05, 2020

Transition made easier, with a little love

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When Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano first learned about the Luggage of Love program, he committed to helping meet its goal of providing displaced children and families with new and/or gently used suitcases.

Luggage of Love is a coordinated effort in Pasco County by the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS)  Pasco County Extension Office.

Elizabeth Urquiola, program coordinator for the Pasco County UF/IFAS Extension Office and Luggage of Love program, shows the suitcases, duffle bags and backpacks donated by the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office staff members. (Courtesy of Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office)

In the past, children who often travel with caseworkers into foster care, or are otherwise removed from their homes due to emergency situations, have had just a plastic garbage bag for carrying their clothing and personal belongings.

The luggage program adds a measure of dignity to a child who is most likely experiencing one of the most traumatic events in his or her young life.

In other cases, single mothers, often escaping domestic violence, are the recipients of the luggage for themselves and their children.

The Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office staff members recently were able to make two luggage deliveries, as well as a cash donation of $500 to the program to use as needed.

Elizabeth Urquiola, program coordinator for the UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension Office and Luggage of Love program, said the money will be used for more luggage tags and a better logo stamp that also are provided.

“It is heartbreaking to think that a child or a mother in distress may only have plastic garbage bags which they use to carry their belongings,” said Fasano, in a news release.

He added, “I am so proud of our staff who rose to the occasion and donated everything from suitcases to duffle bags and backpacks for this incredible charity.”

To learn more about the Luggage of Love program, call Elizabeth Urquiola at (352) 521-1254, ext. 5325.

To donate luggage and for information, call Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector, at (727) 847-8179.

Published February 05, 2020

Bell Lake rezoning back on agenda

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An error in a notice for a rezoning has prompted a new hearing on the request.

The Pasco County Commission, at its Jan. 7 hearing, approved a rezoning for a new subdivision for 27 detached residences on about 9.5 acres, at the northwest corner of the intersection of Bell Lake Road and Alpine Road. The vote was 4-0, with Commissioner Jack Mariano absent.

However, it turns out that an error was posted regarding the date of the rezoning hearing, so the rezoning request now is expected to be heard at the board’s Feb. 4 meeting at 1:30 p.m., at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse, 37918 Meridian Ave., in Dade City.

The site for the proposed subdivision is about 1 mile east of U.S. 41, in Land O’ Lakes.

The main access to the development will be off of Alpine Road. As part of the approval, the developer must put a turn lane on Bell Lake Road.

The rezoning had been recommended for approval by county planners, but had been recommended for denial by the Pasco County Planning Commission. Planning commissioners cited incompatibility of the proposed lot sizes with the existing development pattern in the surrounding area.

Two neighbors also spoke in opposition to the proposed rezoning during the Planning Commission hearing. Their primary complaint was the proposed lot sizes of the project.

No one appeared in opposition at the County Commission hearing, but it turns out that neighbors to the proposed rezoning had received incorrect information regarding the date of the meeting.

At the Jan. 7 County Commission hearing, Todd Pressman representing applicant Michael David Vincent, noted that the initial request for 32 lots had been reduced to 27. He also said an increase was made to the minimum width required for lots within the development.

Published January 29, 2020

Inspiring others with lyrical rhymes

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In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Saint Leo University added a hip-hop element — showcasing the rapper Duke.

The Jan. 21 event was a part of the school’s weeklong series, recognizing the iconic civil rights leader.

Duke shared his story and inspirational words – sometimes conveyed through rap lyrics.

Audrey Ward, left, stands alongside Bunduki ‘Duke’ Ramadan and Juan Carvajal.
Ramadan shared his life story through songs at a Jan. 21 event in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Brian Fernandes)

He noted his lyrics often are influenced by the words of the slain civil rights leader, the nation pauses to remember each year.

“He always tried to approach it from a positive light, and that really influenced me and my work,” he said.

Duke, born Bunduki Ramadan, said even before he was born, adversities have influenced his life, and those experiences led to his rap career.

His mother was still pregnant with him when his family fled during a civil war, from their native Sudan to Egypt.

Because of birth complications, Duke was pronounced dead upon delivery, but then was revived.

“By the grace of God, the baby gasps and begins to cry. That baby, that baby was me. That was my first time beating the odds,” he told those gathered.

The difficult birth, however, resulted in a health disorder that limited the use of his right arm.

His family relocated from Egypt to Jacksonville, Florida, where he grew up.

His brush with death, coupled with the encouragement of his parents, compelled him to push forward, despite his disability, the 27-year-old said.

Music has been a focal point in his life.

It started with his first attempt at rapping, during fifth grade.

Over the years, he has drawn inspiration from other hip-hop artists, such as Tupac Shakur, Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West.

Besides enjoying the art form, Duke said it has been a therapeutic source for channeling his frustration.

Among other kids at school, he said, he felt like an outsider, being “caught up in the gray middle.”

Duke noted that at times he was picked on for his dark skin complexation.

During a rap intermission, he explained the range of emotions felt when faced with bullying.

In one verse, he rhymes: “Cool on the surface, but it’s like the oven on.”

He went on: “Music has such a strong impact on your mood, your mentality and your mindset.”

Likening music to food, he cautioned the audience to be selective with what they consume.

He also touched on education.

He told Saint Leo students that by being at the university, they’ve already beaten the odds.

He attended the University of Florida, majoring in economics.

After graduating, he received several lucrative job opportunities.

But, he turned them down.

“My dream was to pursue my music and be able to use that as a tool to motivate people,” Duke explained.

Eventually, he moved to Atlanta to pursue that dream.

He fell upon some hard times, financially.

At one point, he was sleeping in his car.

In one of his song’s, he poses this question: “Now am I really selling my soul, or am I doing what I got to do to get to the goal?”

By working consistently in a music studio and forming new connections, he was able to build a name as a rap artist, he recalled.

Now, he performs hip-hop shows several times a month across the nation.

Delivering motivational speeches at schools also is on his agenda.

He has built clientele through his own marketing agency.

He described his success in another song — getting the audience to rap along.

The audience repeated the lyrics, as Duke rhymed: “I got some food on my plate, thank God. I got some money in the bank, thank God. My whole family is straight, thank God.”

He references Dr. King’s legacy as hope that each coming generation will struggle less than the one before it.

In his acclaimed 1963 speech, “I Have a Dream,” King said: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

Duke said he’s seen some progress. He said he would like to start a family one day, and he believes his children won’t have to face the same prejudice he experienced.

Duke said there’s power and value in gratitude.

“I want people to be grateful for what they have now,” Duke said. “Being grateful for what you have now is what paves the way for you to have more in the future.”

Published January 29, 2020