The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

There’s no tricks here, only healthy Halloween treats

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The thought of fall may bring to mind bright orange pumpkins, and when Halloween arrives, those pumpkins take on a personality of their own, as jack-o-lanterns.

All you need is a permanent black marker to create whimsical no-carve tangerine jack-o-lanterns, Friendly Frankenstein green grapes and Spooky low-fat mozzarella cheese stick ghosts.
(Betsy Crisp)

It’s also a season when candy reigns supreme in the eyes of young witches, ghosts and other costumed characters who go door-to-door in search of treats.

But, for parents, nutrition and safety, are the top concern.

So, here are a few tips to help keep your Halloween happy, healthy and safe.

Trick-or-Treating
If taking to the streets, young children should always be accompanied by an adult. Set curfews for your older children and make sure they know to stay with their group and stay on the sidewalks.

Make sure that children understand that they can only go to homes of neighbors they know.

Check your lawn and walkways for any obstacles and be sure to leave your lights on.

Keep pets inside or confined to an area of the home. This will keep your pet from being frightened and from frightening others.

To be even safer, consider planning a neighborhood, community or school party.

Treats
Let the children have fun collecting treats, but be sure they know that they must bring all home to be inspected before they can eat any.

Throw away any opened/unwrapped candy, and reject any homemade goods.

If your child has any allergies, be sure to check the ingredient label carefully.

Limit the amount they consume. Let them choose a few pieces a day, for a few days.

And remember, there are ways to give children delicious treats that will help control calories and won’t promote cavities.

Here is a recipe to help
Spicy Apple Bars
Ingredients
1 cup light brown sugar, packed

¼ cup canola oil

½ cup low-fat milk

2 egg whites (1/2 cup egg substitute or 1 whole egg)

1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

1 ½ cups cooking apples, peeled and chopped (about 2 small)

1 cup walnuts, chopped

¼-½ cup powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.

Spray 13-inch by 9-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray.

In a large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, oil, milk and egg.

Stir in flours, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves.

Mix in apples and walnuts.

Pour into the pan and spread evenly.

Bake 20 minutes or until wooden pick comes out clean.

Cool for 30 minutes.

Optional: Dust lightly with powdered sugar (they can be frosted or glazed, but those are less healthy options)

Cool completely and cut into 2-inch by 1 1/2-inch bars.

This recipe makes 36 bars, which have 95 calories each and just 3 grams of fat.

Betsy Crisp, MS, LD/N, is a Professor Emeritus of UF/IFAS Extension – Family & Consumer Sciences.

Published October 25, 2017

Toast of Tampa brings home honors

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The Toast of Tampa Show Chorus placed fourth at the Sweet Adelines International 71st annual Convention & Competition, which wrapped up on Oct. 14, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

This was the 13th time the group has competed on the international stage, and the group’s success is consistent with its past performances.

The Toast of Tampa Show Chorus once again demonstrated its consistent excellence by capturing fourth place at the Sweet Adelines International 71st annual Convention and Competition in Las Vegas. (Courtesy of Toast of Tampa)

In 2015 and in 2013, it took third-place at the international level, in 1993 it won the top prize, and in between it had a number of top-10 finishes.

“We took 108 ladies on stage,” Beth Bosserman Curts said, via email.

“All choruses sing a 6-minute semifinals compulsory ballad and uptune,” she said. This year, there were 33 choruses representing the best of regions in 15 countries in the competition.

Those who finished in the top 10 proceeded to the finals, Curts added.

In the finals, competing choruses present a 15-minute show package.

Of the 10, the winner and second place choruses were from opposite sides of Canada, Curts said. The ninth-place winner was from Stockholm, Sweden, and the other top finishers were from Chicago, Florida, Ohio, Baltimore, California and New Jersey.

“The top five choruses sang at very, very high levels,” Curts said.

“Of the quartets, four chapter and one regional quartets sang,” Curts added.

They, too, turned in excellent performances. Windsor placed third and GQ placed fifth.

Toast of Tampa is a group of female a cappella singers that performs in four-part harmony. Its members range from age 10 to 85.

They sing under the direction of internationally recognized Tony De Rosa, performing modern, complex arrangements.

Chorus members come from throughout Tampa Bay and other parts of Florida, including Jacksonville, The Villages, Sarasota, Bradenton, Fort Myers, Orlando, Melbourne and Crystal River.

Toast of Tampa draws members from all walks of life, including military veterans, new moms, grandmothers, real estate agents, accountants and others.

Members audition to join the group and are expected to meet high expectations.

Toast of Tampa practices on Tuesdays, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with occasional weeks off. The sessions are at the TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, at 4121 N. 50th St., in Tampa.

Those interested are welcome to come to a rehearsal to see if joining the chorus is something they wish to pursue.

Anyone wanting to know more about the group should call Toast of Tampa Show Chorus at (813) 963-7464, or email .

Toast of Tampa Show Chorus presents Standing Room Only, featuring special guest Voctive
Where: University of South Florida Music Concert Hall, 3755 Holly Drive in Tampa
When: Nov. 4, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Cost: $40 patron; $25 regular
Details: The Toast of Tampa Show Chorus is an internationally recognized female chorus that performs four-part a cappella singing. As they perform, they sing and move with emotion and precision.

Published October 25, 2017

‘He had lots of ideas and wanted to do things’

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Seventy-three-year-old Ray Mason died suddenly after a medical emergency during a vacation.

From left, Ray Mason, Elaine Stoots, Jim Evans, Lyle Watson and Fred Wilsky, members of American Legion Post 108 gathered earlier this year to talk about the post’s 80th birthday. (File)

Mason’s death was “a terrible shock,” said Lyle Watson, who came to know Mason during their time together as members of the Lutz/Land O’ Lakes American Legion Post 108.

“He bought into the Legion 150 percent,” Watson said.

“He very quickly made a name for himself and made everybody take notice,” Watson added.

Mason served in the Navy, from 1962 to 1968, as a commissary store keeper. More recently, he served as adjutant of Post 108, assisting commanders and then later became a commander himself.

Watson served as Mason’s adjutant.

Bill Garrison, a former post commander, said Mason’s death “was definitely a loss” for Post 108.

Garrison described Mason as “the glue that held Post 108 together.

“He went above and beyond, both as commander and adjutant. He loved veterans,” Garrison said.

Ray Mason, of American Legion Post 108, helps place flags at gravestones of veterans at Lutz Cemetery, to honor their service to the country. (File)

Richard Fernandez, another former commander, said Mason accomplished a great deal during his tenure with Post 108, perhaps more than any other commander in recent years.

“He loved being involved in it,” said Mason’s wife, Mary.

The Land O’ Lakes couple was married for 48 years and had four children. Their sons are Brian and Tim, and their daughters are Terry Aurie and Karen Kulzer.

Before moving to the area in 1984, Mason lived in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he owned a meat shop. When he moved here, he worked in the meat department at several different Publix stores, serving as an assistant manager, his wife said.

“He was very helpful. He was everybody’s go-to person,” said his daughter, Karen. “He was a great father, a great husband.”

His wife added: “He was a great friend.”

“If someone had a problem, or something they needed, they’d call him,” she said.

If they wanted to borrow something, he was always willing to help — although sometimes it could take a day or two for him to find the requested item.

When Mason joined Post 108 he was determined to get things done, said Watson, noting he’ll miss his friend. “He was a great guy.”

Over the years, Post 108’s membership has waxed and waned.

Mason was always looking for ways to expand its membership.

During an interview about Post 108’s 80th anniversary earlier this year, Mason talked about the increasing losses suffered by the post, as aging members died.

Now, he too, has joined those ranks.

He died during a vacation, after visiting Gettysburg, a place he always wanted to see, his wife said.

Arrangements are pending, but the family plans to hold a ceremony with military honors at Florida National Cemetery in Bushnell.

Published Oct. 18, 2017

Federal aid available for Hurricane Irma victims

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Federal emergency management teams are fanning out statewide to help Hurricane Irma victims register for financial assistance.

Residents in Pasco County lost trees, and in many instances, suffered damage to their homes due to Hurricane Irma. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is taking applications to provide financial assistance. (Kathy Steele)

In Pasco County, a team settled in at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Collier Parkway from Oct. 11 through Oct. 14.

Area residents applying for assistance also could speak with representatives of the United States Small Business Administration and Pasco County.

Pasco County officials will make announcements soon about more locations that will open to take applications.

The in-person meet-ups with Federal Emergency Management Agency workers are only one of several ways to register for financial assistance.

Currently, the deadline to register is Nov. 9.

State officials have the option to request an extension, however.

Steven Solomon, a FEMA media relations specialist, said the easiest way to apply is to online.

The website is Disasterassistance.gov.

For those who don’t have access to a computer or the Internet, they can call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362. Because FEMA is responding to a number of recent disasters, including Irma and Hurricane Harvey, there could be long waits on the phone.

“We’re asking for people to be patient,” Solomon said.

FEMA workers also are out in the field in the 48 counties declared as federal disaster areas. “We’re walking door-to-door with Ipads, registering people as we go,” Solomon said.

The field workers will have a federal ID badge, which residents should ask to see, Solomon said.

Those who register with FEMA for assistance will be asked to provide the following information:

  • Social Security number
  • Address of the damaged property and a contact phone number
  • Insurance coverage
  • Total household income
  • Bank routing number and account number

FEMA will schedule an appointment for an inspector to meet the applicant – age 18 or older – at the hurricane damaged property. The inspector doesn’t determine eligibility, Solomon said.

All of the information is sent to FEMA, and a letter will be sent to the applicant regarding a grant award.

FEMA grants can pay for a variety of losses including home repairs, temporary housing, transportation, medical and dental costs and funeral expenses.

These will be grants, not loans that would be repaid. Also, grants are not considered taxable income, and they don’t affect other benefits being received, such as Social Security or food stamps.

Homeowners with property insurance should file separate claims with their insurance companies and FEMA. The federal agency can supplement what insurance doesn’t cover.

Grant amounts aren’t intended to be a dollar for dollar replacement of all losses, but Solomon said they can aid in “making people whole again.”

Businesses can apply for low-interest loans through the Small Business Administration. Solomon said it also would be helpful for business owners to talk with FEMA representatives to find out if other types of benefits also would be available.

Anyone who needs repairs completed should do so as quickly as possible, without waiting for a FEMA decision, Solomon said. But, they also should take pictures of the damage and keep receipts for purchases and services, he added.

Everyone should be on the alert for scam artists trying to take advantage of people, Solomon said.

“There is no charge for anything FEMA does,” Solomon said. “If (anyone) asks for money, it’s a scam.”

Avoid being scammed
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has issued some tips to help people avoid being scammed, as they recover from a disaster.

Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail, by email, through the Internet, or in person.
Here are some tips to remember to safeguard against fraud:

  • Ask to see ID badges. All Federal Emergency Management Agency representatives always carry an identification badge with a photograph.
  • Keep your FEMA registration number safe. It is your key to your application information. Do not share it with others.
  • Safeguard personal information. No state or federal government disaster assistance agency will call you to ask for your financial account information. Unless you place a call to an agency yourself, you should not provide personal information over the phone. It can lead to identity theft. In general, be cautious when giving personal information such as social security or bank account numbers to anyone. FEMA will only request an applicant’s bank account numbers during the initial registration process. FEMA inspectors will require verification of identity but will already have your registration number.
  • Beware of people going door to door. People knocking on doors at damaged homes or phoning homeowners claiming to be building contractors could be con artists, especially if they ask for personal information or solicit money.
  • Know that federal workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and Small Business Administration staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections, or to help fill out applications. FEMA inspectors verify damages, but do not involve themselves in any aspect of the repair nor recommend any contractor.
  • If you suspect fraud, call the toll-free FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at (866) 720-5721, or call your local law enforcement agency.

Published Oct. 18, 2017

 

 

 

Incentive money brings more jobs to Pasco

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Pasco County commissioners approved an incentive payment of $141,000 to Meopta U.S.A, an optics manufacturer bringing nearly 50 new jobs to the county.

Meopta USA is opening a plant in Trinity that will manufacture precision optics for a variety of uses including binoculars, scopes, and assemblies for the military and aerospace industries. (Courtesy of Shannon Jackson)

The company is relocating its headquarters from Long Island, New York, to 7826 Photonics Drive, in Trinity.

Meopta officials plan to renovate a building formerly occupied by another optics manufacturer, VLOC, Inc. That company closed in 2014.

Pasco can thank a Largo-based company for its good fortune in landing Meopta.

Nearly a year ago, the Largo company, also an optics manufacturer, was looking to be bought out. Meopta officials decided to buy the company’s assets, with initial plans to move everything to their plant in Long Island, New York.

But, Reinard Seipp, Meopta’s general manager, said he saw a lot of “know-how and talent” in the area.

But there was a problem.

“I didn’t want to live in Largo,” he said. “I happened to like Pasco, right away. I live here. I love it.”

Meopta is expected to make about a $5.2 million capital investment in the project.

Salaries are expected to be about $49,000 a year, or about 125 percent of Pasco’s average wage.

Meopta manufactures and distributes precision optics mostly for military uses, Seipp said.

Its optics are used for binoculars as well as spotting and rifle scopes. Meopta also makes prisms, optical mirrors, periscopes for tanks and assemblies for the aerospace and medical industries.

“Our products flew on space shuttles,” Seipp said.

The Pasco Economic Development Council worked with county staff to recruit Meopta to Pasco.

The Pasco County Job Creation Incentive Program also will aid Meopta in filling job positions.

Seipp has met with representatives of AMskills, a Tampa Bay initiative that aids high school students, adults and veterans seeking manufacturing jobs.

Seipp is optimistic about the company’s future.

“I think 47 jobs is a start,” Seipp said. “We’re not going to stop there by a long shot.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mount Dora: A charming way to spend a day

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Arriving in Mount Dora is like walking onto a movie set: sparkling Lake Dora provides the backdrop. Panning out from the lake, front-porched homes, American flags flying, line shady streets, an easy walk from main street shops, parks and even a candy cane-colored lighthouse.

The Mount Dora Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Dora draws visitors with its candy cane colors. It is 35 feet tall and was dedicated in 1988 over the Port of Mount Dora. (Karen Haymon Long)

In the daytime, visitors – like movie extras – fan out to the lake on scenic boat tours, hikes on lakeside boardwalks, then strolls to downtown shops and cafes. They can even take seaplane rides over the lake or rent their own pontoon boat to watch for gators, turtles, otters, herons, egrets and other wildlife.

In the evening, they’re back at the lake to witness salmon-colored sunsets over the water and maybe later to stroll to historic Lakeside Inn for a nightcap.

Mount Dora, a town of 12,534 residents in Lake County, 40 minutes northwest of Orlando, looks like small-town USA, with its moss-draped oaks, flowering magnolias, hilly terrain and higher-than-normal – for Florida anyway – elevation of 184 feet above sea level.

“It’s an extra friendly town. Everyone is really welcoming,” says Henry Ollendick, who co-owns one of downtown’s most charming shops, Papilio, which is Latin for butterfly.

Renninger’s Antique Center in Mount Dora offers all kinds of interesting treasures. You never know what you might find at the center and at one of its antique extravaganzas. The next one is Nov. 17 to Nov. 19. (Karen Haymon Long)

When he and his partner, Joel Maas, opened their shop in 2013, other shop owners welcomed them and asked if they needed anything, which made them feel at home, Ollendick says.

That friendliness, as well as “the hills, the big oaks, the Spanish moss hanging from the trees – so different from the rest of Florida,” convinced them to leave Key West and move to Mount Dora. Now, they walk to work.
“You get to know your neighbors that way,” Ollendick says. “It’s very homey.”

The two were also drawn by the town’s many festivals, which earned it the nickname “Festival City.” Its 33rd annual Craft Fair, coming up on Oct. 28 and Oct. 29, features the work of 400 crafters and artists. Its antique extravaganzas at Renninger’s Antique Center, — the next one is Nov. 17 to Nov. 19 — draws treasure hunters from around the world.

Years ago, the antique center and sister flea market next door helped make Mount Dora a darling of travel guide book authors. The flea market is open weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and the antique center Fridays, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Vendor Stan Lawson, who owns Triple LLL Treasures in the antique center, says he meets people from all over the U.S., and from around the world in his shop. Not long ago, he sold his Native American jewelry to visitors from Iceland, and he often sells to Germans and Brits, he says.

His shop sells jewelry made by Native Americans in the Southwest who he’s known for years. In another area in the center, Steve and Barbara Gretchko sell hard-to-find barrister’s bookcases, wood filing cabinets and other early 20th century office furniture.

Dozens of other booths sell everything from antique glassware and furniture to books, toys, linens, sports

Mount Dora’s downtown shops and restaurants remind visitors of what they would think of as ‘downtown USA.’ (Karen Haymon Long)

memorabilia and paintings. Outside, vendors sell old birdbaths, yard statuary, vintage signs, plants and more, while the flea market next door sells plants and produce, garage-sale-type items, T-shirts and other new clothes.

Downtown shops vary from home decor to paintings and other art, clothing and even dog bakery items. At Papilio, Joel Maas sells his artwork made with real butterflies, as well as stationery, jewelry, garden and home decor, plants and other items.

Like their visitors, downtown restaurants span the globe, with cuisine representing Cuba, Peru, Great Britain, Mexico, India, Italy, China and the Caribbean, along with the usual pizza and pub grub. Florida celebrity chef and cookbook author Norman Van Aken owns a restaurant in a house built in 1921, called, appropriately enough, 1921 by Norman Van Aken.

We chose Magical Meat Boutique for lunch, partly because of its kooky name and partly because it got raves on the online travel site Trip Advisor. Housed in a British pub-style space, it specializes in British fare – think bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie. It also attracts British tourists. On our visit, two parties at nearby tables had British accents and talked nostalgically about how happy they were to find a little home so far away from their homeland.

Next time, we thought we’d try The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge, a fancier place with a book-lined dining room and delicious sounding rack of lamb, duck, quail, Idaho trout, and jumbo lump crab cakes with peach and chive chutney on its menu.

The Goblin Market Restaurant & Lounge in Mount Dora looks as friendly inside as out. Its menu offers lamb, duck, quail, crab cakes and other fare. (Karen Haymon Long)

Visitors need at least two days — or three, four or five — to take a boat ride, go out fishing, hike along the lake or just drive around and look at some of the neighborhoods and some of the old Victorian houses, such as the Donnelly House, built in 1893 and now owned by the Masonic Lodge, and open to the public for special occasions.

The old railroad depot, built in 1915, now houses the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce offices and visitor center at the corner of Third Avenue and Alexander Street. The picturesque Lakeside Inn, opened in 1883, is an elegant place to stay and dine, get married or take a boat ride off its shores.

Some 36 years ago, Mount Dora was the setting for the movie “Honky Tonk Freeway,” starring Jessica Tandy, Beau Bridges, Teri Garr and Beverly D’Angelo. Townspeople were extras. The plot: The town – named Ticlaw – already has a wildlife safari park and a waterskiing elephant named Bubbles, so when residents hear a freeway is about to be built, they hope an off-ramp will lead to more riches. But, when the new freeway bypasses them without an off-ramp, they paint their downtown buildings pink to get people to come.

Today, Mount Dora doesn’t have to paint itself pink. It has charm enough to attract visitors – even without a waterskiing elephant.

Tips for the Trip
How to get there: The easiest way to get to Mount Dora from Pasco County is to go north on Interstate 75. That way, MapQuest says it’s an hour and a half, and 80 miles, from Wesley Chapel. Another route is Interstate 4 toward Orlando, then north to Mount Dora. For details, see MapQuest or another directions site.

Where to eat: We liked Magical Meat Boutique, at 112 W. Third Ave., where we had bangers and mash, a stilton, pear and walnut salad, and two Scottish beers for $37. For menu, visit MagicalMeatBoutique.com.

Where to stay: We’ve stayed at Lakeside Inn before and enjoyed its quiet elegance. The town also has a variety of bed and breakfast inns, and other hotels. See the chamber of commerce’s MountDora.com for options.

Festivals: This city of festivals has all sorts of offerings, including Renninger’s Antique Extravaganzas Nov. 17 through Nov. 19; Jan. 19 through Jan. 21 and Feb. 16 through Feb.18 at its antique center, 20651 U.S. 441. For details, visit Renningers.net.

Other events include:

  • 33rd Annual Craft Fair, with 400 vendors, Oct. 28 and Oct. 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 510 N. Baker St.
  • Christmas Lighted Boat Parade, Dec. 2 at 7 p.m., begins on Lake Dora at the lighthouse across from Gilbert Park on Tremain Street and Liberty Avenue, downtown.
  • Christmas Tour of Homes, Dec. 2 and Dec. 3, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., $20; for details, visit WCFAMountDora.com.
  • 43rd annual Arts Festival, Feb. 3 and Feb. 4 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., downtown, with park and ride options; for more, visit MountDoraArtsFestival.org.

For a more extensive list of festivals and events, go to MountDora.com, and click on annual events.

For a more extensive list of festivals and events, go to MountDora.com, and click on annual events.

By Karen Haymon Long

Published Oct. 18, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tennis center secures management

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Plans to serve up more tennis opportunities for Zephryhills residents — while also creating a regional asset — have moved yet another step forward.

The Zephyrhills City Council on Oct. 9 unanimously approved a 20-year contract with Tennis P.R.O. Florida, LLC, to operate and mange the proposed Zephyrhills Tennis Center.

Tennis P.R.O. is owned by Pascal Collard, shown here. Collard was the director of tennis at Saddlebrook Tennis Academy in Wesley Chapel from 2003 to 2006. He most recently served as the tennis director at The Merion Cricket Club, a private club in Haverford, Pennsylvania. (Kevin Weiss)

Tennis P.R.O. is owned by Pascal Collard, who was the director of tennis at Saddlebrook Tennis Academy in Wesley Chapel from 2003 to 2006.

Most recently, he was tennis director at The Merion Cricket Club, a private club in Haverford, Pennsylvania.

Under the agreement, Tennis P.R.O. will be responsible for day-to-day operations of the facility, which will include providing lessons and running concessions. The firm also will handle memberships and fundraising.

Moreover, Collard’s company will pay $300,000 upfront for capital improvements to the facility — covered court, hitting walls, indoor and outdoor playground and so on.

The agreement also calls for the proposed facility to be open at least 80 hours per week, as weather permits.

“I’m very excited about starting as soon as possible,” Collard told council members.

“I’m already working on the marketing, trying to find out what can we do to make it a big success. We want the community to be involved. We’re also going to have a foundation, where we’re going to try to do a lot of outreach programs,” he said.

Council members unanimously agreed in May to enter negotiations with Tennis P.R.O. LLC, to operate and manage the proposed tennis facility. The firm was selected over Management Partners and Net Results.

The planned $2.19 million complex will include eight clay and two hard surface courts, two sheltered courts, two mini-courts and several pickleball courts, built to U.S Tennis Association (USTA) professional standards.

It also will feature a pro shop, a multifunctional community room, and two office spaces. A second floor, if added, will include an observation deck overlooking the courts with concessions and a lounge for players.

This rendering of the Zephyrhills Tennis Center shows 10 courts (eight clay, two hard surface), two sheltered courts, two mini-courts and several pickleball courts, built to U.S Tennis Association (USTA) professional standards.
The tennis center is also expected to feature a pro shop, a community room, and two office spaces. The project could break ground as soon as March.
(File)

The complex will be located on 4.7 acres of donated land at The District at Abbott’s Square, a new real estate development situated north of Dean Dairy Road and west of Simons Road.

Officials say the project could break ground as soon as March, with construction estimated at 12 to 16 months.

Once complete, it will be renamed Sarah Vande Berg Memorial Tennis Center, after the former Zephyrhills High School district champion who became a scholarship player on the University of South Carolina Upstate women’s tennis team. Vande Berg, the daughter of the Zephyrhills planning director Todd Vande Berg, died in an automobile accident at the age of 21 in October 2015.

City Manager Steve Spina said the city will receive no revenues in the first three years of the complex opening, to help Tennis P.R.O. recoup its upfront costs. For the remainder of the agreement, however, the firm will pay rent to the city based on a percentage of its profits.

Spina said the public-private partnership resembles the one Zephyrhills has with the East Pasco Family YMCA, in which the city owns the building property, but outsources programming and facility management.

Meanwhile, recreation impact fees from The District at Abbott’s Square and other developments will be used to finance most of the facility’s construction costs, city officials say. The city also is looking into additional funding from USTA grants, Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program (FRDAP) grants, Penny for Pasco, and partnerships with Pasco County Parks and Recreation, and Pasco County Tourism.

Memberships, or hourly court rental fees, will be required to access the tennis facility, though Zephyrhills residents will see a price break compared to non-residents.

And, while those figures haven’t yet been configured, they are expected to mirror other clay-court tennis centers in nearby communities.

The eight-court Cindy Hummel Tennis Center, in Auburndale, has yearly memberships ranging from $75 to $171, for unlimited court access. Elsewhere, the 10-court Plant City Tennis Center offers individual annual passes for $350, and family annual passes for $700. Hourly court fees range from $1 to $7 at both facilities.

“If you go to Plant City, if you go Auburndale, if you go to Tampa — to have clay courts you have to have fees,” Spina said.

Aside from serving east Pasco residents, officials believe the new tennis complex could become a draw for college and USTA-sanctioned events.

“We think this is more than a local tennis club; we think it will be a regional asset,” Spina told the council.

“This is a feather in our cap,” said Alan Knight, council president.

“I’m excited about it,” said Lance Smith, council vice president. “I think it’s going to bring some people in here, and we don’t really have any idea how big this is going to be. …I think it’s going to be a great success. I’m looking forward to seeing it come along.”

Published Oct. 18, 2017

Bexley Elementary celebrates its formal dedication

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Bexley Elementary was formally dedicated last week.

Members of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce join administrators from Pasco County Schools and members of the Pasco County School Board during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the formal dedication of Bexley Elementary School. (B.C. Manion)

It was a festive event, with Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning making some remarks, the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce marking the occasion with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the Sunlake High School band performing a few numbers.

There was cake, of course.

And, cupcakes, too.

The cafeteria was crowded with families celebrating the new school, and many of the guests took advantage of the opportunity to go on self-guided tours to see the classrooms and meet school staff.

The school, at 4380 Ballantrae Blvd., opened in August to relieve overcrowding at Odessa and Oakstead elementary schools. The formal dedication was on the evening of Oct. 10.

In a tour before the school open, Principal Vicki Wolin described Bexley’s emphasis on research, enrichment opportunities and collaboration.

Bexley, which is in a subdivision developed by Newland Communities, is the largest elementary school that Pasco County Schools has ever built.

Its design was the result of a collaboration between architect Harvard Jolly, four elementary principals and David Scanga, assistant superintendent for elementary schools.

Wolin was one of the principals weighing in on that design — which is intended to facilitate enriching learning opportunities for children.

Published Oct. 18, 2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

San Antonio gears up for 51st Rattlesnake Fest

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The 51st annual San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival, slated for this coming weekend, is borrowing from old traditions and introducing new activities, too, according to organizers of the event.

Children enjoy riding around in a barrel train during a previous San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival. The barrel train rides are just one of many fun activities available for children during this year’s event. (File)

The two-day event is set for Oct. 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Oct. 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

As in the past, the festival will have a snake show, wooden gopher tortoise races, a pumpkin patch and live entertainment.

And, like before, admission is free.

In addition to the rides, food, music and other activities, the festival also has a 1-mile and 5-mile run.

Children’s activities planned for this year’s event include children’s games and crafts, inflatables, pony rides, a farm animal exhibit, barrel train rides and entertainers, according to the event’s website.

The Town of St. Leo will sponsor a pumpkin patch, offering photo opportunities, and pumpkins, of course.

The festival began in 1967 as a Jaycee project.

Later, The Rattlesnake and Gopher Enthusiasts (R.A.G.E., Inc.) took over and expanded the festival, managing it until 2012.

The following year, six of the Eastside Pasco County Rotary Clubs operated the event as a fundraiser for local charities, and then The Rotary Club of San Antonio assumed leadership of the event.

This year, the Thomas Promise Foundation has stepped in to continue the community festival. Thomas Promise is a charitable organization that provides food in backpacks to help children who would otherwise go hungry over the weekend when school meals are not available.

51st annual San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival
Where: San Antonio City Park, 12202 Main St., San Antonio

When: Oct. 21, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Oct. 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: Free admission

Details: Food and craft vendors, live entertainment, a snake show, wooden gopher tortoise races, a beer garden, a pumpkin patch and more.

Information: Call (813) 782-0000 or visit RattlesnakeFestival.com

Published Oct. 18, 2017

Pasco County seeks new location for food relief

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Pasco County commissioners don’t want a replay of the overwhelming crowds and hours-long

Pasco County officials moved to cancel a federal emergency food program at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center. They decided the location, with a playground and youth ball fields, would be inappropriate to handle large crowds of applicants and traffic. Another location is being sought. (Kathy Steele)

waits that hampered efforts in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties for residents seeking to qualify for disaster food relief following Hurricane Irma’s destruction.

So, on Oct. 16, Pasco County Administrator Dan Biles prepared to send a letter to the Florida Department of Family and Children Services cancelling plans for a similar event scheduled at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center.

The four-day event had been slated to begin on Oct. 22.

Pasco officials now are scouting for a different location, and will work with local DCF officials to identify a more suitable site, said Biles.

Per the agreement, either party can terminate upon three days prior written notice.

As of Oct. 16, about 11,000 people had pre-registered online to participate in the emergency food program, Biles said.

The challenge is finding a large building with sufficient parking in a location that is accessible, he said.

“We (Pasco County) don’t have a location for that,” Biles said.

The better option likely is finding a private property that would meet those requirements, he added.

County commissioners were scheduled to hold a workshop on Oct. 17 in Dade City, with discussion of the emergency food program an added topic. The meeting was scheduled after publication deadlines for The Laker/Lutz News.

County commissioners reluctantly approved the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Center for the federal relief program on Oct. 10.

Their approval came only after an unsuccessful try

to move the emergency food program to a vacant Super Target store, at State Road 54 and Suncoast Parkway.

That didn’t happen because the owner told county staff that the store needs repairs that could not be completed in time.

“So, that’s out of the loop,” Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore said during the Oct. 10 meeting.

Moore and Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey both indicated that the Target store would be better able to handle a high volume of traffic.

They also voiced concerns that a crush of vehicles and people at the recreation center would slow work commutes and recreational activities scheduled in the afternoon.

A Florida Department of Children and Families official estimated up to 82,000 people could show up to the site during the four-day period.

The Land O’ Lakes Branch Library and several schools also are along Collier Parkway.

Before Biles cancelled the use of the recreation center site, county staff members and DCF officials had been working on plans to limit disruptions at the recreation center.

State workers processing the applications were planning to park their vehicles at a vacant Kmart store on State Road 54. The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office had agreed to assist with traffic.

Pasco commissioners had been told that the 6 p.m. closing time would be met to keep from interfering with regular activities at the center.

Ongoing reports of problems at other sites around the Tampa Bay area also had heightened Pasco officials concerns.

The Food for Florida program is administered by DCF in partnership with the United States Department of Agriculture.

Residents can qualify based on income and losses.

People who currently recei

ve food stamps through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, aren’t eligible. Instead, they will be compensated with extra benefits through the monthly program.

For eligible applicants, Disaster-SNAP, or D-SNAP debit-style cards will be issued if the applicant lived or worked in one of the 48 declared federal disaster counties from Sept. 5 to Oct. 4.

Those qualifying can receive assistance for the months of September and October.

For information, visit Dcf.state.fl.us/programs/access

Published Oct. 18, 2017