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These graduates have taken a different path to success

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One plans to help build ships.

Another wants to work in child care.

Two others plan health care careers.

And, that’s just four of the more than 50 graduates who received their diplomas during the 2018 Commencement Ceremony on Jan. 25 at the Center for the Arts at Wesley Chapel.

Sixteen-year-old Hailey Pecora plans to pursue a nursing degree. (B.C. Manion)

Some had completed their GEDs. Others had finished the cosmetology program or Early Childhood Apprenticeship. And, there were some receiving high school diplomas, either finishing up credits they needed, or graduating ahead of their class.

All of the graduates had something in common: They smiled broadly as they marched into the auditorium, as members of the audience clapped and cheered.

This was their moment, and they soaked it in.

Graduate Hailey Pecora, of Dade City, plans to enroll at Pasco-Hernando State College, to pursue a degree in nursing.

Her grandmother, Xandra Erickson, came from Jacksonville, to share in the moment.

Her pride was evident. “She has done this graduation thing at 16. She’s already enrolled in college.”

Graduate Sita Ramrattan completed the Early Childhood Apprenticeship.

Next, the 44-year-old plans to earn her associate’s degree, at either Saint Leo University or Pasco-Hernando State College.

Eighteen-year-old Gunter Winkler, of Zephyrhills, wants to pursue welding, with the aim of going into shipbuilding.

He was pleased to be moving onto the next step, and to have his parents, grandparents and best friend there to help him mark the accomplishment.

Sandra Vogel, a school counselor for adult education, simply loves graduation ceremonies.

“It gives you a warm feeling because you know what they’ve gone through to get here.

“They’ve worked really hard, and we’re really proud of them,” Vogel said.

Forty-four-year-old Sita Ramrattan celebrated the completion of her Early Childhood Apprenticeship.

Leslie Ruttle, a resource teacher, said that besides recognizing the graduates, the ceremony can serve as a stimulant for others.

“A lot of our students, the way we get them, it is word of mouth. A relative, or a friend, or something like that has gone through the program,” Ruttle said. “We’ll get some students tonight,” she predicted. “They’ll come here, and they’ll see other people have been successful and they’ll think: ‘I can do it, too.’”

“So many of the students have gone through trials,” said Wendy Beard, program manager for adult education. “Now, another door is opening for them.”

Throughout the auditorium, there were family members, friends and fellow students cheering on the graduates.

Ambrose Helms, 17, of Wesley Chapel had a giant fan club. Roughly 30 people were expected to come help him celebrate.

“I feel excited because he’s graduating early,” said Latoya Lovett, his cousin, who had staked out a place near the front of the auditorium for Helms’ supporters.

Nicole Robinson was there to support Olivia Paradilla, a graduate from Land O’ Lakes High.

“She’s my best friend. I know she’ll do great things,” Robinson said.

Catherine Agovino came to support Niki Atkins and Danielle Cary, who had completed their Early Childhood Apprenticeship. “It’s a big accomplishment,” Agovino said.

Hope Corcoran, who delivered the student address, underscored the reality that high school is not a perfect fit for everyone.

She was born in China, where she was abandoned, as an infant, on the side of the road.

She was adopted and attended schools in Wesley Chapel.

“It didn’t go as I would have liked,” Corcoran said. “I felt like I didn’t fit in. I was constantly bullied and teased. I would come home crying to my mom, and I told her I didn’t want to go back because I felt so different from the other kids.

“I was made fun of for being overweight and for having slanted eyes,” she said.

“It got to a point where I ended up enrolling into home-school,” she said.

“And, then I found out about the GED program and that I could finish high school and get my diploma.

“It was through this program that I met Miss Linda Rockwell.

“I’m so thankful that I had the opportunity to meet this incredible woman. She cares about her students and wants to see them achieve the best future possible,” Corcoran said.

Along the way, Corcoran said she learned some lessons.

“I have learned that people drop out for different reasons. Sometimes bullying. Sometimes academic reasons and family struggles. Everyone has their own story.

“Many students feel lost in high school and don’t know where to begin. There are so many things that go on, behind the scenes, that we are unaware of.

“It’s expected that students all learn the same way, with the same lessons, same techniques and same books, when that is simply not the case. High school isn’t for everyone.

“Some students have jobs, to help support their families. Or, need to stay home to take care of them, along with other responsibilities, outside of school that can get in the way of academic work,” Corcoran said.

“A few nights ago, I was texting Miss Rockwell and I was telling her I wasn’t sure what else I should talk about. Her response was: ‘Talk about how there’s more than one path to success. How each person chooses their path. You can talk about how not everyone has the same definition of success, and that getting a GED is just the first step to success.’”

Corcoran observed: “I couldn’t have said it better myself.”

Published January 31, 2018

Dancing for sugar cubes

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It may sound like the stuff of dreams, but there’s a place in Florida where horses with sunlit manes dance for sugar cubes, and tourists seeking a break from glitzier and expensive attractions are welcome to watch.

Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan stallions have settled back into their winter home, a 25-acre ranch in rural Manatee County, following nearly six months of performances at fairs and special events throughout the Northeast.

Gabriella ‘Gabby’ Herrmann, who learned to train Lipizzan horses from her father and grandfather, silently commands her stallion, Argentos, to perform the courbette, a traditional Lipizzan show movement in which the horse jumps with his hind feet while holding his forelegs tucked in. (Susan Green)

Now, as they have for more than 50 years, the stallions will rehearse three days a week for upcoming shows, until it’s time to go back on the road in the spring.

A spacious arena at the ranch in Myakka City is flanked by rows of bleachers to mimic the venues the horses typically encounter on tour.

Ranch owner and horse trainer Gabriella “Gabby” Herrmann hopes that Florida visitors will fill those bleachers and help keep the equine entertainers accustomed to performing in front of an audience.

“The audience is a very important part of the training here,” she said. Not only do the stallions perform better when they hear an audience applaud, but they also break bad habits that they pick up on the road.

During formal shows, Herrmann explained, the trainers don’t correct mistakes. In the tradition of showmanship, the performance continues, even when a horse fails to perform the proper maneuver, and some of the horses learn to take advantage of that.

During the rehearsals in Myakka City, however, the show stops and trainers repeat their commands until each horse performs properly, even though there’s an audience watching.

With the exception of costuming, the Florida Lipizzan rehearsals include the same performance elements of the touring show, said Herrmann, who serves as emcee. Individually and in groups, the stallions demonstrate the dance-like movements that have made them famous, accompanied by a mix of popular tunes and traditional drill team music.

The show is choreographed anew with fresh music each year, Herrmann said. But, it always includes a review of the Lipizzans’ noble origins in Austria; how they were brought to the United States after a daring rescue during World War II; some information about the care and training they receive; and, an explanation of their “airs above the ground” and other maneuvers.

The Lipizzan Legacy
Lipizzan horses were bred for war during the 16th century, and many of the kicks and rearing movements that audiences today perceive as ballet-like were originally designed to frighten the enemy or even deal a fatal blow.

“The stallions themselves were the weapons,” Herrmann said.

After gunpowder was invented, the battle role of the Lipizzans diminished, but the royal Hapsburg family of Austria continued to favor the breed for its grace, beauty and athletic ability.

Riders, from left to right, Gabriella ‘Gabby’ Herrmann, Brandy Crispin, Kendal Morris and Rebecca McCullough perform equestrian drill maneuvers astride some of the beautiful stallions at Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch.

Later, the performing Lipizzans so captured the imagination of Gen. George Patton that he helped rescue the animals from danger in the final days of World War II, a drama re-enacted in the 1963 Walt Disney film, “Miracle of the White Stallions.”

Herrmann’s father and grandfather, both now deceased, were part of that effort and were among others who brought the horses to America and began featuring them in shows.

Herrmann said after the rehearsal that her family bought land in Myakka City in 1962 for the Lipizzan breeding and training program because of the area’s reputation as the winter home of circus performers.

“The weather is really ideal for us,” she said. “That’s why we settled here.”

Gabby Herrmann grew up riding the horses and learning showmanship from her father. She took the helm of the operation when her father, Col. Ottomar Herrmann Jr., died in 2004. The stables now hold 29 horses, including mares and foals.

“These horses, they’re like our children,” Herrmann said, adding that each of the horses has its individual personality. “We’re allowed to take our time with our horses because this is not a competition or show barn.”

During the rehearsal, Herrmann explained to the audience that training at the ranch depends on a three-pronged reward system for the animals – carrots, apples or sugar cubes for a job well done, along with praise from the trainer and applause from spectators.

As the winter season progresses, there may be hundreds of people in the stands, Herrmann said.

About 30 people – some from as far away as Wisconsin, Ohio and Missouri – found their way to the ranch for the opening day of winter rehearsals on Dec. 14.

Cathy Widen, who splits her time between Waukesha, Wisconsin, and Orlando, was there with her friend, Linda Schmit, also of Waukesha.

Widen said she recently saw an exhibition of Lipizzan horses in Vienna, Austria, and she was eager to see an American version.

Jagger, a 22-month-old Lipizzan colt born at Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch, is introduced to the audience at opening rehearsals for the stallions’ 2018 show tours. Lipizzans become white as they mature, and Jagger is beginning to show signs of whitening on his face.

“They’re just so majestic,” she said. “And, it’s amazing how well-trained they are.”

Elizabeth Dodge, 15, who lives in southern Missouri, was visiting her grandmother, Susan Ludwig, a Manatee County resident. She said she saw the show a few years ago and described it as “horse ballet.”

“I just love horses,” the teen said. “I think it’s neat that they’ve been able to keep this line pure.”

Herrmann’s daughter, Rebecca McCullough, has joined her mother in the family business and is a featured performer in the show. Herrmann’s granddaughter, Sydney McCullough, 8, is taking her turn in the show ring this season, putting a rescue pony, Willie, through his paces.

Herrmann said she is gratified that, after so many years of opening the rehearsals to the public, people who visited the ranch as children often return with their own children or grandchildren in tow, wanting to share a special experience with the next generation.

In addition to the show, she noted, visitors are welcome to stroll through the barn, see the stallions in their stalls and enjoy the beauty of the ranch, where wild turkeys and deer sometimes make an appearance.

“What brings people out? They know the history behind these horses,” Herrmann said. “And, in these times that we live in, it’s a place where you can still bring a family and wander around and take your mind off of what’s going on in the world. To me, it’s just serenity out here.”

Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions
What: Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Stallions off-season rehearsals
Where: Herrmann’s Royal Lipizzan Ranch, 32755 Singletary Road, Myakka City
When: Thursdays and Fridays at 3 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., through April
Cost: $5 donation requested for admission, optional costs for concession stand and photos with the stallions
Info: (914) 322-1501, or HLipizzans.com

By Susan Green

Published January 31, 2018

Bakas Equestrian Center is set to move

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Bakas Equestrian Center, which has offered horse-riding therapy for disabled children and adults for nearly 30 years, is expected to have a new home by the end of this year.

In fact, the center will be replaced by two facilities under a plan unanimously approved by the Hillsborough County Commission on Jan. 11.

Tom Pepin, a beer distributor and philanthropist, approached the county with a proposal to replace the existing facility in western Hillsborough with two similar facilities on county-owned lands.

The Hillsborough County Commission approved a proposal by beer distributor Tom Pepin to relocate the Bakas Equestrian Center, 11510 Whisper Lake Trail in Tampa, to two similar facilities on county-owned lands. Bakas will move 2 miles from its current location to a 17-acre site at Northwest Equestrian Park in Odessa. A second riding center, of 10 acres to 12 acres, also will be built at Sydney Dover Trails in Dover. (File)

Under the approved plan, the 23-acre equestrian center property, at 11510 Whisper Laker Trail in Tampa, will move 2 miles from its current location to a 17-acre site at Northwest Equestrian Park in Odessa. Located on South Mobley Road, the park spans 600 acres and has 6 miles of horse trails.

A second riding center, of 10 acres to 12 acres, also will be built at Sydney Dover Trails in Dover, where there are about 250 acres available for good riding. That center is expected to serve residents in the eastern and central part of the county.

The commissioners’ approval now allows county staffers to begin negotiating terms of a final sale, with the project’s timeline for completion slated for the end of this year.

Board members agreed in September to put the county-owned park and its facilities up to bid, but only if Pepin pledged to build two new equestrian centers where the Bakas center could relocate at no cost to the county. The county, however, will be responsible for ongoing operating costs, such as staffing and maintenance.

Pepin’s approved proposal featured two bids—valued at $1.45 million and $1.97 million, respectively.

The first bid—the price Pepin originally was willing to spend on the project—calls for building the two facilities to match the same specs “like for like” as the Bakas site, plus a $200,000 endowment for capital costs and other operating expenses.

The second, more costly bid, includes various site upgrades and amenities at both sites desired by the county and Bakas’ Horses for Handicapped board members. Among them are competition-size arenas that measure more than 100 feet-by-200 feet, to accommodate more users and enhance fundraising opportunities. The current ring at Bakas measures 60 feet-by-120 feet.

The proposal received the general endorsement of Bakas’ Horses for Handicapped program, which noted on its website that “this would allow us to expand our program to both sides of the county.”

Therapy riding programs, such as the one at Bakas, are credited with helping people with disabilities develop balance and coordination, and to gain confidence.

However, the proposed changes drew mixed reviews during the commission’s public comment period, during which several speakers disapproved of the conversion of county-owned parklands to private property.

Kent Bailey, who chairs Tampa Bay’s Sierra Club chapter, claimed the proposed deal is undervalued as it “returns less than $2 million to the county’s taxpayers for a property that was purchased in 2001 for $3 million.”

“(Pepin) is a fine man,” Bailey said, “but what does that have to do with your faithful discharge of the fiduciary responsibilities as good stewards of the taxpayers of this community.

“No one is entitled to preferential treatment here, regardless of their standing in the community,” he added.

Tampa resident Christopher Gleason expressed similar sentiments to commissioners, saying the land deal gives “unfair advantage to somebody based on their standing in the community and political connections.”

Tampa resident Karen Michalski also directly questioned commissioners, by saying “Why is the public county park with a working value added successful equestrian therapy center being sold to an individual? Just because (Pepin) has the opportunity?”

Others, meanwhile, voiced concerns about site naming rights, and questioned whether the county is willing to adequately staff and handle ongoing operating expenses at two separate sites.

Jolie Smith, a Land O’ Lakes resident whose two daughters benefit from Bakas, explained she didn’t want to see the equestrian center sold, but is hopeful the deal will result in a “win-win” for the county and Bakas riders.

Smith noted: “the premise of the swap is to allow the Bakas program to grow, expand, and service more individuals with special needs.

“We’ve seen people walk, breathe and restore function. It’s an amazing program, and part of that therapy is the pristine setting where we are at,” she said.

Pepin said he plans to use the purchased Bakas tract, which abuts 67 acres he already owns, for personal use.

During a town hall meeting in November, he said he might build a few residences, but doesn’t intend to create a subdivision or commercial property.

He also said he’s willing to work with the community on certain amenities, such as larger riding arenas at both locations, in lieu of less desired features.

“My mission is the same as Bakas—it’s to help handicapped children,” Pepin said during the town hall.

Published January 31, 2018

Thousands turn out for barbecue and blues

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The results are in, and the eighth annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival drew a crowd of more than 12,000, according to festival organizers.

The event, held Jan. 20, at the festival venue at Zephyrhills Municipal Airport, featured blues music, award-winning barbecue, and vendors offering goods and services.

The Ed Wright Duo, The Doug South Band, The Legendary JCs, Chuck Riley’s All-Star Revue and Someday Honey Entertainers were the slate of entertainers lined up for the festival.

People settled in their lawn chairs to listen, or danced in front of the stage, as musicians entertained at the festival dedicated to blues and barbecue in Zephyrhills. (B.C. Manion)

People set up lawn chairs to listen, while others danced in front of the Florida Hospital Pavilion stage.

Dozens of professional and backyard barbecue teams competed for prizes and bragging rights.

Melonie Monson, executive director of The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce, was enthusiastic about the event’s success.

“It is exciting to say this was our favorite BBQ yet; our team was amazing. We, at the chamber, are ecstatic with how everything came together,” Monson said, in a news release.

She noted having the event at the same facility for the second time made it easier to organize setting up the event, and offered a simpler layout for festival-goers to navigate.

She also expressed appreciation for the people who helped pull off the event. About 200 volunteers are involved each year.

“The teams this year were top notch, we had a variety of concessions who put out amazing food, the Kidz Zone was a huge hit, I heard rave reviews of the car show, and the bands were better than ever,” Monson said. “I talked to many who traveled far just to hear our bands,” she added.

As usual, the festival was built around a Florida BBQ Association-approved barbecue competition. More than 50 professional and backyard teams competed in the four standard categories of chicken, pork, brisket and ribs.

Professional teams had the added incentive of potentially winning $10,000 in prizes.

In the professional barbecue division, Hot Wachulas of Bartow, under head cook Matt Barber, took top place overall winning $2,000, plus $700 in individual category awards, not to mention an unprecedented rare score of a full 200 points for Ribs.

Swamp Boys of Winter Haven, led by Rug Bagby, took second place winning $1,500 and $850 in individual category awards. Both won trophies as well.

Backyard division winners were 27 South BBQ of Babson Park, under Danny Sharpless, in first place, winning a trophy and $200, and Smokin’ Ain’t EZ of Valrico, taking second place under Sam Nowakowski, winning a trophy and $100.

Monson noted that two of the teams received a perfect 200 score on their individual entry, which she said, “I’m told never happens and is unprecedented. That makes me proud to know we gave them the right combination to help them excel.”

The festival was enhanced this year with a Rock Wall in the Kidz Zone, sponsored by Suncoast Credit Union.

The car show was run by veteran Ronnie Setser, and Roy Kesner of Riverview took “Best of the Best” in early models with a 1937 Ford 3 Window Coupe.

Other highlights included an aviation showcase, access to the Military History Museum, and a business expo, the news release said.

Barbecue competition results:
Professional Division
Overall Winners: Hot Wachulas, first place; Swamp Boys, second place; GetChewSumBBQ, third place

Chicken: Uncle Toad’s BBQ, first place; Backyard Bro’s, second place; Hot Wachulas, third place

Ribs: Hot Wachulas, first place; Swamp Boys, second place; Sweet Smoke Q, third place

Pork: Pig Chicka Cow Cow, first place; GetChewSum BBQ, second place; Going Yard BBQ, third place

Brisket: Swamp Boys, first place; Uncle Toad’s Competition BBQ, second place; Uncle Kenny’s BBQ, third place

Backyard Division
Overall Winners: 27 South BBQ, first place; Smokin’ Ain’t EZ, second place; Big Red BBQ, third place

Chicken: Big Red BBQ, first place; Smokin’ Ain’t EZ, second place; 27 South BBQ, third place

Ribs: 27 South BBQ, first place; Smokin’ Ain’t EZ, second place; Papa’s BBQ, third place

Pork: 27 South BBQ, first place; Smokin’ Bros, second place; Bahr’s Smokin Butts, third place

Brisket: Smokin’ Bros, first place; Big Red BBQ, second place; 27 South BBQ, third place

Published January 31, 2018

New Sienna Village office park approved

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Sienna Village, a small office park off State Road 54, is about to get a companion – Sienna Village II.

Pasco County commissioners approved a rezoning for the new office park, which will be on the southwest corner of State Road 54 and Sofia Drive. It is east of the existing Sienna Village, and about one-third mile from the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41.

The rezoning allows up to 150,000 square feet of professional office, and up to 30,000 square feet of commercial. The property, including the existing Sienna Village, covers about 15 acres. The undeveloped portion includes several dilapidated residences.

Sienna Village Office Park was built in 2008. Developers are planning a new office park, off State Road 54 and Sofia Drive. (Kathy Steele)

“Sienna Village I is just a lovely project,” said Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey. “I’m glad to see it (Sienna Village II) coming here today.”

Businesses in the existing office park include the Merricks Law Group, Suncoast Skin Solutions, Lumina Dental, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, and Caribbean Mystique-Massage & Wellness Spa.

Developers want to use Sofia Drive as access into the new office park. The roadway is privately owned, and unpaved, except where it intersects with State Road 54.

Issues related to Sofia Drive’s ownership must be worked out, but developers propose to pave and bring the roadway up to county standards.

Bus stops also would be accommodated, if the county makes public transit available there.

The office park’s proximity to the busy intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41 also could have future impacts on the site, according to county records regarding the rezoning application.

Pasco currently is reviewing recommended solutions to resolve traffic gridlock at the intersection, which has about 100,000 vehicles a day passing through it.

A volunteer task force, working on the county’s Vision 54/56 project, recommended a variety of options, including elevated lanes, and a system of at-grade frontage roads.

The county also has requested a study to determine if an underpass is a practical and financially viable option.

Published January 31, 2018

Kumquat Festival offers a slice of Old Florida charm

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The Kumquat Festival, which pays homage to a tiny orange fruit with a tangy flavor, carried on in its usual fashion — despite this year’s challenges to the kumquat crop.

MacKenzie Brewer, Miss Pasco County Fair Outstanding Teen, left, and Courtney Graham, Miss Pasco County, pose with local jam and jelly businesswoman Cristi Williams, of Jovita Treats, and her assistant, Faith DiMaria, 9. (Richard K. Riley)

Citrus greening, insects and Florida’s recent hard freezes dealt a blow to the kumquat crop — knocking out sales of fresh kumquats this year.

But, there were kumquats to sample, and plenty of kumquats served up in jams, jellies, pies, salads, sangria and all sorts of other concoctions.

The atmosphere was festive, there were lots of vendors — and there were quilts and cars and entertainers to enjoy.

John Moors, executive director of The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce, put it like this in a news release: “tens of thousands of people came from all over the Tampa Bay region – residents, winter visitors and tourists joined in the fun. Over 400 vendors and sponsors sold and promoted their wares and services. Our entertainment stage at the Historic Courthouse featured free live performances from wonderful local talent all day. Many of the shops and restaurants in Dade City and the surrounding area enjoyed their busiest day of the year.”

Moors also noted that the festival, which offers free admission, free parking and free shuttles, could not happen if it weren’t for the generous support of sponsors.

Published January 31, 2018

Cheryl Howard, of Spring Hill, and Marilyn Prill, of Brooksville, enjoy their first visit to the festival and share their first slice of kumquat pie.
Judy Croucher, of East Pasco Quilters, shows Hugh Embry Library Manager Angel Liranzo one of the quilts on display during the Kumquat Festival.

Ranch Days is back for its second act

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When the organizers were gearing up to debut Ranch Days last year at Little Everglades Ranch, north of Dade City, they proceeded with caution.

They wanted to see how the event went, before making plans for another one.

Apparently, the event went well because now event planners are gearing up for the second annual Ranch Days on the 2,050–acre property, owned by Bob and Sharon Blanchard.

Kevin Campbell, events coordinator for Little Everglades Ranch, and Melissa Black brought a WWII amphibious landing craft that will be used for rides at the Ranch Days event in February. (Richard K. Riley)

Slated for Feb. 10, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and for Feb. 11, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the event offers a chance to listen to music, grab a bite to eat, and take home a purchase or two. Little Everglades Ranch is at 17951 Hamilton Road, north of Dade City.

Last year, about 5,000 turned out, said Kevin Campbell, who along with his wife, Andie, coordinates events at Little Everglades Ranch.

“For a first-year event, we were pleased with the amount of people that we had out,” he said.

This year, he said, there have been some improvements.

“The stage is bigger and better,” Campbell said.

“Where we have the stage sits on a real gentle kind of hill to the north, and there are three or four real big live oak trees kind of around it.”

“The music is great. We went a little bit harder on some of the headline entertainment,” he said.

This year’s lineup includes Thomas Wynn and The Believers, as the headline act on Feb. 10. “They’re kind of a bluesy-rock Florida group.”

Another act, Colin Axxxwell, is coming from Nashville.

“He’s just so good. I had to book him,” Campbell said.

There’s also Bill “The Sauce Boss” Wharton.

“Bill is a 72-year-old man who has been playing music for many years. For the last 30 years, he cooks out a batch of gumbo on the stage. He comes up in a chef’s coat and a chef’s hat. He plays guitar all by himself, with a bass drum and a high hat.

“When he first comes out, I think he has a 12-gallon pot. We give him all of the ingredients and he fills this pot up, and he starts his batch of gumbo — and then 67 minutes later he takes the batch of gumbo … and he gives out 100 bowls of gumbo.”

Another act, Mean Mary, is back again from last year.

“She’s been playing since she was a 4- or 5-year-old child. She plays fiddle and banjo. “She’s really, really talented,” Campbell said.

The Junior Savage Race is back, too, complete with medals for the kids who complete the course.

This year’s guided tours include a bus tour, swamp buggy rides, a ride on a Vietnam-era amphibious supply vehicle, and camel rides. The bus tour is new.

The event also offers a petting farm, pony rides, face painting, and entertainment by Mr. Tommy.

Other acts will include high-wire shows by Tino Wallenda, of the Flying Wallenda Family, and a snake show and exhibit by Jim Mendenhall, a snake handler and expert.

Lady Kitty will be there, with her birds of prey; and, Rick and Jan Stratton will provide a juggling and variety show, with their sidekick, Snorkel the pig.

He offered these tips for enjoying the experience. Buy tickets for rides early, wear hiking boots, and bring lawn chairs and blankets, to relax on while you listen to the music.

“The rides were booked solid last year,” he said. “People just loved going across the ranch,” he said.

The amphibious vehicle goes across the ranch and into the lake.

There are plenty of choices for food, and there’s beer, soda and water.

Admission is free, but parking is $10 for cars, and $25 for buses and RVs.

Campbell think it’s an event that families will enjoy.

“You pay for rides, and you pay for food and you pay to park,” Campbell said, but everything else is free, he said.

No coolers or pets are allowed. The event will be held, rain or shine.

For more information, visit RanchDays.com.

Ranch Days
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
When: Feb. 10, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Feb. 11, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Admission is free; parking is $10 for cars, $25 for buses and RVs; vendor charges for food, rides and purchases
Details: Live music on two stages, ranch tours, exhibitions of a high-wire act, a juggling and variety act, birds of prey and indigenous snakes, kids’ activities and more
Info: Visit RanchDays.com.

Published January 31, 2018

Solar co-ops offer savings on solar panel installations

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Florida lags behind other states in producing clean, renewable energy from the sun. It doesn’t crack the top 10 in state rankings, even while being promoted nationwide as the Sunshine State.

But, Florida, along with other states across the country, is embracing solar power, and other clean energy sources, in ways that don’t always get noticed.

Workers install solar panels on a rooftop.
(Public Domain)

Solar panels, wind farms and electric-powered vehicles are among the technologies driving the alternative energy industry.

It’s often described as the quiet revolution, said David Sillman, coordinator for North Pinellas FL Sun, or Solar United Neighbors of Florida.

Sillman was the featured speaker on Jan. 22 at the Dade City Garden Club meeting. His topic was “Electrifying Future: Solar and Alternative Energy.”

The Solar Energy Industries Association has ranked Florida 13th nationally for solar capability, but also reported that the state has the third-highest potential for solar capacity.

Sillman said other rankings have put Florida as low as 18th.

“The good news is, we’re catching up,” Sillman said.

The Washington D.C.-based Solar United Neighbors and its chapters around the country are joining with other like-minded organizations and nonprofits, including the League of Women Voters and the Sierra Club, to promote solar power.

North Pinellas FL Sun and the local League of Women Voters, for instance, partnered in 2016 to launch the St. Pete Solar Co-op.

There also is the Hillsborough County Solar Co-op.

Currently, Sillman said he knows of no cooperatives in Pasco County.

But, solar cooperatives are simple to pull together. “All that is needed is volunteers,” he said.

It can be neighbors who want to install solar panels on their homes, or who simply want to learn more about the renewable energy industry. Joining a cooperative doesn’t require that a member install solar panels.

However, as a group, members can get bids from local solar companies that offer discounted rates on installation, Sillman said.

Costs over the past years have fallen, he added.

His costs in 2011 were about $25,000 for a three-bedroom, two-bath home. It might cost about $10,000 today, Sillman said.

According to Clean Energy Guide, costs for solar panels have dropped 99 percent, from $50 per watt in 1979 to 50 cents per watt in 2015.

Also, federal tax credits are available.

Typically, solar systems pay for themselves within 8 ½ years, and they come with 25-year warranties, Sillman said.

The life of a system can be from 30 years to 40 years, he added.

For information on solar energy and cooperatives, visit SolarUnitedNeighbors.org.

Published January 31, 2018

Ft. King ranch land too costly for conservation program

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A volunteer advisory committee had recommended that 17 parcels of the former Ft. King Ranch be added to a list of conservation lands worthy of purchase by Pasco County.

But, the Pasco County Commission balked at the potentially pricey cost of buying nearly 3,600 acres, and voted against the committee’s wishes.

The property, owned by the limited liability partnership of Secret Promise, is situated off State Road 52, near the Ehren Cutoff. It stretches from the northern boundary of Cypress Creek to the Crossbar Wellfield, near Bellamy Brothers Boulevard.

Florida Estates Winery is located on land offered to Pasco County for its conservation lands’ program. (Kathy Steele)

“That’s a very, very large purchase,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. “It could crush future projects. It’s almost to the point if we add this, we can’t add anything else.”

Currently, the county’s ELAMP, or Environmental Lands Acquisition and Management Program, has nine properties under review for purchase. The program’s budget has a balance of about $27 million from the Penny for Pasco program.

The total value of land and buildings for the 17 parcels adds up to about $14.3 million, according to the Pasco County Property Appraiser’s valuations.

The county has more pressing needs than buying land of which only 20 percent is environmentally sensitive, said Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley.

“I would rather see that money go to properties in other parts of our county that actually helps flooded areas, and helps a lot of citizens,” he said.

The late Dr. Crayton Pruitt, a noted heart surgeon from St. Petersburg bought the property in 1997 for about $3.1 million.

Peter Wallace, registered agent for Secret Promise, made an offer to sell the land to the county.

The 11-member advisory committee took up the matter last summer and requested an evaluation of the property.

Committee members in November voted to recommend its placement on the ELAMP list, and for a negotiated deal to buy part or all of the property.

The county would be able to buy the land outright or buy only the development rights.

The site meets the definition of agricultural reserve land, and includes pastures, wetlands, pine flatwoods, freshwater marshes, and wildlife habitats.

On a graded scale, it earned 52 out of 80 points, according to the evaluation report.

Moore pressed for an opinion from Keith Wiley, the county’s interim director for parks, recreation and natural resources department.

“I always maintain my neutrality,” Wiley said. But, he added, “At the least, it’s one of our lower priorities.”

Years ago, the land was re-zoned for future development of single-family homes and retail, with about 2,000 acres left as open space.

Currently, there are three small houses on site, as well as a working cattle barn and two workshops.

Florida Estates Winery also is located on site.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey wondered if the winery owners would want to remain. She also had concerns about the county’s future plans to build a road through the property.

“I want to be real cognizant of the road system,” she said.

If the property were put on the county’s waiting list, Starkey said that didn’t mean the county had to purchase it.

“The devil is in the details of the deal,” she said.

After the vote to keep Secret Promise off the list, Oakley left the door open for reconsideration.

He asked Wiley to come back with new information, if it puts the land higher on the ranking scale.

Published January 31, 2018

Mother of twins dies after casino boat fire; donations sought

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A GoFundMe account has been set up to aid the children of Carrie Dempsey.

The 42-year-old woman, who lived in Lutz, died Jan. 14, hours after a fire engulfed a casino shuttle boat ferrying about 50 passengers to a casino ship in the Gulf of Mexico.

She was the sole fatality among about 15 passengers who needed medical attention, according to news reports.

Carrie Dempsey
(Facebook.com)

Dempsey leaves behind 12-year-old twins, Chad and Megan. Dempsey’s husband, Joseph Dempsey II, died in 2011, at the age of 33, according to an obituary.

The children are being cared for by their grandparents.

“We are reaching out to raise funds for Chad and Megan’s care and education, that their grandparents may not have been financially prepared for,” according to a written statement on the GoFundMe page. “Chad and Megan are two kind-hearted, athletic and academically gifted children who deserve a bright future. They have incurred so much loss and heartache in their short lives.”

Bridget Verrecchia is listed as the fund’s organizer. She is vice president of the ways and means committee of the PTA executive board for McKitrick Elementary School, according to the school’s website.

Segal Funeral Home is handling funeral arrangements.

According to an obituary, Dempsey moved to the Tampa Bay area in 1985 from Cleveland, Ohio.

She will be “remembered for her sense of humor, quick wit and infectious laugh, but mostly as a devoted and loving mother,” the obituary states.

Graveside services are scheduled for Jan. 25 at 2 p.m., at Gan Shalom Cemetery, 3527 E. County Line Road in Lutz. In lieu of flowers, a college fund will be established for Dempsey’s children.

The cause of the fire aboard the Island Lady is under investigation, according to a spokesman with the U.S. Coast Guard.

About 50 people were aboard as the shuttle, operated by Tropical Breeze Casino, steered toward the gulf, and a casino ship in international waters.

The boat’s captain noticed the engine was overheating, and prepared to return to shore when a fire broke out, according to news reports.

The reports said the captain ran the shuttle aground in the Pithlachascotee River, about 100 yards from shore in Port Richey.

Passengers and crew had to jump into chilly waters. Rescuers included nearby neighbors, Port Richey police, Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, Pasco Fire Rescue, and the U.S. Coast Guard.

The boat burned down to its hull, reports added.

For information, visit GoFundMe.com/the-dempsey-family.

An online guestbook is available at SegalFuneralHome.com.

Published January 24, 2018