Local News

See an animated movie for free!

March 25, 2015 By Michael Murillo

An outside movie event can be a great idea, but it depends on when you do it. If it’s too early in the year, you might catch one of our really cold weekends. If it’s closer to summer, you risk rain, sweltering heat and more rain.

Did I mention the rain? You have to time things just right.

The poolside area at Avalon Park West becomes an outdoor movie theater once a month. (Courtesy of Avalon Park West) — The poolside area at Avalon Park West becomes an outdoor movie theater once a month.
(Courtesy of Avalon Park West)

Fortunately, this happens to be the right time. The weather is nice, but it’s not too humid yet. And because it’s the right time, Avalon Park West, a community in Wesley Chapel, has a monthly “Movie Under the Stars” series that’s worth checking out.

On the fourth Friday of each month they show a family friendly movie. Last month, it was “Planes,” and on March 27, it will be “The Boxtrolls,” an animated film that was recently nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

So you show up and watch a movie. Is that it? Well, not quite. Not only is the movie free (this is “On the Cheap,” so you might have guessed that part) but they serve free popcorn as well. They also have free lemonade and hot cocoa, too. And since it’s out by their pool, you can grab one of the pool chairs, or bring your own chairs or blanket. You can even bring your own cooler, and enjoy snacks and drinks from home.

In other words, no $5 drinks and $6 popcorn like you’ll find at the regular movie theater. You can enjoy some nice weather with family or friends and not spend a lot of money to do it. Technically, you don’t have to spend any money at all. How often can you take the whole family out to an event and not lose a penny? As most of you know, that’s rare. So we need to take advantage of those evenings when we find them.

In case you were wondering, you don’t have to live in Avalon Park West to go. It’s open to everyone. All you have to do is like movies and free things to do. And that covers a lot of us.

Before the movie starts on the blow-up screen, a disc jockey gets the kids ready for the show with some music and dancing. So you might want to show up a little early to get a good spot and enjoy the entertainment before the movie begins. And it doesn’t end too late, so everyone can make their bedtimes, too.

Finding cheap things to do isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. And it’s nice to come across something local that’s completely free all the way around. For children and adults who like animated films, this is a great way to spend a Friday night.

By the way, there are only a couple of dates left before the event takes a break until later in the year. If you can’t make it on March 27, you can try again on April 24 when they show “Big Hero 6.” That movie beat “The Boxtrolls” for Best Animated Feature. Since the next two films were both nominated for Academy Awards, you might want to attend both. It’s the same price, after all: Nothing.

Avalon Park West is located at 5216 Autumn Ridge Drive in Wesley Chapel. For more information, call (813) 783-1515 or visit AvalonParkWest.com.

Published March 25, 2015

Pasco-Hernando State College chooses new president

March 25, 2015 By B.C. Manion

Timothy Beard has been selected to become Pasco-Hernando State College’s fourth president.

The PHSC District Board of Trustees announced its choice at the conclusion of its presidential search, on March 18.

Timothy Beard has been selected to become the fourth president of Pasco-Hernando State College. In choosing Beard, the college’s board went with someone who already knows the college and is ready to build on its strengths (Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College) — Timothy Beard has been selected to become the fourth president of Pasco-Hernando State College. In choosing Beard, the college’s board went with someone who already knows the college and is ready to build on its strengths
(Courtesy of Pasco-Hernando State College)

Beard, vice president of student development and enrollment management at PHSC in New Port Richey, was among a field of four finalists. The other finalists worked at Klamath Community College in Klamath Falls, Oregon; West Virginia University at Parkersburg, Parkersburg, West Virginia; and, St. Petersburg College in St. Petersburg.

They decided to promote Beard to replace Katherine Johnson, who is retiring on June 30.

Beard’s appointment becomes effective July 1, pending the successful outcome of contract negotiations.

“We are pleased to extend an offer for the presidential position to Dr. Beard,” Ed Blommel, PHSC District Board of Trustees and presidential search committee chair, said in a release. “As a senior administrator at PHSC for the past eight years, he is already familiar with the college and has an understanding of its strategic goals and mission.”

Beard is delighted to be stepping into the college’s leadership role.

“This is a surreal opportunity,” said Beard, who has worked for the college since 2007 and expects to build on the good work that has been accomplished there.

Before joining PHSC, Beard was vice president and dean of student affairs at the University of South Alabama in Mobile, and director of student affairs and enrollment management at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.

He earned his doctoral degree in rehabilitation counseling, with a special emphasis in higher education administration, from Florida State University in Tallahassee. He also has a master’s and a bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from FSU.

Pasco-Hernando State College has more than 15,000 students and about 700 employees, including adjunct faculty.

Pasco-Hernando State College awards certificates, diplomas, associate degrees and baccalaureate degrees.

The college has campuses in Dade City, Wesley Chapel, New Port Richey, Spring Hill and Brooksville.

Beard said he plans to pursue an initiative that would enlist the help of faith communities and other organizations to help support students, through scholarships and in other ways.

He is looking forward to strengthening the ties between PHSC and the communities it serves.

“I really want to bring the community into the college and the college into the community,” Beard said.

Published March 25, 2015

Farmers market offers fruits, vegetables — and a dance

March 25, 2015 By Kathy Steele

June Wentworth went looking for a pleasant walk around the lake on a sunny morning at Zephyr Park and before she knew it, the 83-year-old found herself in the arms of a dance partner who glided her through the bittersweet memories of Garth Brooks’ “The Dance.”

Gospel singer Kris Pierce had just sold a copy of his CD to Wentworth who was impressed enough to say yes to her surprise of the day – the singer’s invitation to dance.

Amanda Jones (in ball cap) talks with a shopper who is checking out Jones’ array of homemade clutch bags, potholders and accessories. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo) — Amanda Jones (in ball cap) talks with a shopper who is checking out Jones’ array of homemade clutch bags, potholders and accessories.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

“He’s got a great voice,” said Wentworth, a Maine native visiting Zephyrhills for a couple of weeks.

She had stopped at Zephyr Park for that quiet walk and discovered the Zephyrhills Artsy Farmers’ Market, off State Road 54 at 38116 Fifth Ave.

Pierce and his wife, Melissa, were at the market for their second time.

The singer is a frequent entertainer at the Fraternal Order of the Eagles and Ralph’s Travel Park, both in Zephyrhills.

During the farmers’ market, Pierce sang covers and original tunes under the gazebo at water’s edge. His wife, Melisssa, sat at a display table covered with her husband’s CDs, collections that range from gospel songs to covers of Elvis Presley.

“I do a little bit of everything,” Pierce said. “Pretty much everything but heavy metal and rap.”

He was among about 15 vendors who set up tents and displays under the cathedral canopy of oak trees near the park’s entrance.

The market got its start downtown in Times Square Park on Fifth Avenue with just a few vendors about a year ago.

In October, the market moved to the larger and more tranquil setting of Zephyr Park.

The event is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the second Wednesday and fourth Saturday of each month. Beginning April 25, the market will become a fourth-Saturday-only event.

The market, staged by Largo-based Simply Events, needs more vendors.

Owner Sonya Bradley hopes to eventually have about 30 businesses selling everything from cheese to breads to specialty foods. “We’re going to keep adding to it,” she said.

Ashley Samnani, who sells Rainbow vacuums and cleaning supplies, was among the original group of vendors who launched the market at the downtown location.

Samnani likes the park setting much better.

“Now (the market) is growing expansively,” she said.

On a recent Wednesday, the Brandon resident had a drawing at the park to give away three air purifiers.

“It’s nice that it’s in this location,” Samnani said. “People in the park visit (the market). It’s like a family the way we all interact.”

Keeping it local is Simply Events’ goal, said Andrew Cecere, the company’s vendor consultant.

Owners of Zephyrhills-based Peaceful Pastures Farm were on hand selling free-range eggs. The farm also produces free-range Cornish Cross broilers and turkeys.

Amanda Jones, 30, and her mother-in-law, Phyllis Stonebarger, were selling handmade items including clutches, drawstring bags, coaster sets and potholders. They spread their wares across a folding table. It was their first time at the Zephyrhills’ market.

“I’ve always wanted a sewing machine,” said Jones who lives in Wesley Chapel. “One day I bought one. I’m self-taught, a lot of YouTubes (YouTube videos).”

Natalie Avila, 21, Kornilous Donnell Sr., 25, and their 1-year-old toddler, Kornilous Donnell Jr., all of Zephyrhills, enjoyed a stroll through the park, cool drinks and fruit from Come Under the Yum Yum Tree, a produce company from Brandon.

“It adds to the community,” said Donnell Sr., “I like that they are getting vendors that are able to sell produce. Zephyrhills needs more businesses anyway. This is great.”

Pam Nethers of American Pride sold jewelry and accessories from her home-based business in Fort Myers. Lida Livingston, owner of Livs Coffee Place, sold organic coffee.

Her mobile business is based in Lakeland, but she travels for weddings, corporate events and house parties.

Maryann Hendricks, 67, brought her Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls, children’s dresses and accessories from Clearwater. Her grandmother taught her to sew.

“I enjoy it,” she said. “I’m teaching my granddaughter to sew.”

For one family from Zephyrhills, jams and pickles, and baby quilts are a growing business. ITTs Homemade is an intergenerational venture that began as a fun project in the kitchen. They were among the original vendors at the downtown location.

Grandmother Irene Secrest, 80, does some of the preparations, such as peeling the apples. But she said, “I let them do the cooking.”

While her daughter, Teisha Disbrow, and granddaughters, Teresa Hicks and Tabytha Silverman, are busy canning strawberry jams, pumpkin butter, banana peppers and sweet pickles, Secrest settles down to her specialty – making baby quilts.

Their home-based business also was among the original vendors at the downtown location.

“There’s a lot more people coming here,” Hicks said. “It’s just a prettier setting.”

The next farmers’ market at Zephyr Park will be March 28 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For information, contact Simply Events at (727) 674-1464.

Published March 25, 2015

Business Digest 03-25-15

March 25, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Health center grand opening
Premier Community HealthCare Group will have a ribbon cutting and grand opening for the Lacoochee Family Health Center March 25 from 4 p.m. to 6 pm., at 38724 Mudcat Grant Blvd., in Dade City.

There will be a brief ceremony followed by tours and a reception at the Lacoochee Community Center.

The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce are co-hosts of the event.

Employ Veterans Seminar
Are you an employer interested in hiring veterans? The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce and the office of U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis will co-host the Employ Veterans Seminar March 31 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 pm., at the Microtel Inn & Suites, 7839 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

RSVP for this free seminar by March 27. A light lunch will be served.

Representatives from state agencies will be on-hand to answer questions about available incentives and funding for job-specific training.

For information and to make reservations call (813) 782-1913, or email .

Classes in creativity
Studio Twenty8 will host a ribbon cutting March 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 28152 Paseo Drive, within The Shops at Wiregrass, in Wesley Chapel.

The studio offers a range of creative classes in painting, music, photography and graphic design.

For information, call (866) 471-4749.

Meet Zephyrhills physician
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will host an open house and ribbon cutting March 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., for Dr. Stacy Taylor-Hunt, a doctor of osteopathy.

She is joining the staff at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills Family Medicine, Suite B, 37908 Daughtery Road, in Zephyrhills. Free glucose, blood pressure and/or BMI screenings will be available. Sandwiches, salads, desserts and beverages will be provided.

New web-based company
SymphonicB2B will have a ribbon cutting on April 2 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., at 2318 Cypress Lane, Unit 102, in Wesley Chapel.

The company provides assistance with website design, branding, social media, SEO, videos and printing, and is a subsidiary of Tampa-based Symphonic Distribution.

For information, call (866) 471-4749.

Zephyrhills chamber breakfast
The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce will have its monthly breakfast April 2 from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., at the Golden Corral, at 6855 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Ron Yasurek, general manager of Mosaic’s Plant City facility. He will discuss the company’s phosphate operations in Florida and the mission to help the world grow the food it needs.

For information, contact the chamber at (813) 782-1913, or email .

Women-n-charge
Join the vibrant ladies of Women-n-Charge on April 3 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., at Pebble Creek Country Club, at 10550 Regents Park Drive in Tampa. The meeting includes lunch and time to network.

The featured speaker will be Ginger Rockey-Johnson, the Original Spice Girl of Tampa Bay, who will discuss “How to Use Today’s Social Media to Market Your Business.”

The cost is $15 for members (payable the Tuesday before the meeting), and $18 for guests and members paying Wednesday and after.

To register, visit Women-n-Charge.com.

For information, contact Judy at (813) 600-9848, or email .

New mattress shop opens
Mighty Mattresses is open for business at 21126 State Road 54 in Lutz.

The discount mattress retailer had a ribbon cutting on March 3.

The store is on the southwest corner of State Road 54 and Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, with an entrance off State Road 54.

Grants for businesswomen
Are you a businesswoman who could use $1,000?

Women-n-Charge is offering two $1,000 grants this spring. The grants can be used towards business-related equipment or services and continuing education. The nonprofit’s mission, in part, is to support and assist professional women in managing their businesses more effectively.

Learn more about the grants at Women-n-Charge.com. Applications are available online and are due April 15.

For information, contact Judy Nicolosi, treasurer of Women-n-Charge, at (813) 600-9848, or email .

Two-day career fair
Pasco-Hernando State College will host Opportunity 2015 Hernando County Career Fair on April 9 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and April 10 from 9 a.m. to noon, at the North Campus, Building B Conference Center, 11415 Ponce de Leon Blvd., in Brooksville.

On April 9, there will be free seminars on resume writing, interview skills and proper attire and etiquette for interviews. Keynote speaker will be Steve Wilson of Pasco-Hernando State College.

On April 10, local employers will be present to accept resumes and do on-the-spot interviews. Dress professionally and bring lots of resumes.

The event is free but pre-registration is required at HernandoCountyCareerFair2015.eventbrite.com.

For information, call Nicole Miller at (352) 7907-5174, or Steve Wilson at (352) 293-1123.

Rotary Club needs bee sponsors
The Rotary Club of Wesley Chapel Noon needs sponsors for the third annual “BEE Part of the Buzz” adult spelling bee.

The spelling bee will be April 10 at 6:30 p.m., at the Tampa Bay Golf & Country Club, 10641 Old Tampa Bay Drive, in San Antonio. Teams compete in three rounds with words progressing in spelling difficulty from easy to intermediate to difficult.

Spectators cheer on their favorite teams in a fun event that helps raise funds for the Pasco Education Foundation. Donations range from $1,500 for a Queen Bee sponsorship to $150 for a four-person team.

For information, email Erin Meyer at .

East Pasco Networking Group
The East Pasco Networking Group will meet April 14 at Rose’s Café at 38426 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills.

Networking begins at 8 a.m., with the meeting starting at 8:30 a.m.

The guest speaker is Jeanette Hall, Pasco Shopper advertising representative.

For information, call Nils Lenz at (813) 782-9491, or email him at .

Business Link available monthly
Business Link, a monthly small business gathering hosted by the San Antonio Citizens Federal Credit Union, meets the second Wednesday of each month beginning at 7:30 a.m.

The meeting is designed to provide a networking and information-sharing platform for the business community.

For locations, details and to reserve a seat, email , or call (352) 588-2732, ext. 1237.

Wesley Chapel networking group
Networking for Your Success meets every Thursday at 8 a.m., at Lexington Oaks Country Club, 2615 Lexington Oaks Blvd., in Wesley Chapel.

Cost is $5, and annual membership to the group is $79.

Charter advisory panel all white, mostly male

March 23, 2015 By Kathy Steele

A 15-member charter advisory panel that will decide the future of Pasco County’s governing structure is in place. And Pasco commissioners approved a contract to pay a private Tallahassee consultant $60,000 to guide its efforts during the coming months.

But the panel’s all white, and nearly all-male make-up came under fire at the commissioners regular meeting in Dade City on March 10. Each Pasco County Commissioner appointed two members, plus an alternate to the panel. Pasco’s five state legislators also weighed in, with one appointment each.

Commissioner Mike Moore got some pushback for his selection of a county law enforcement officer supervised by Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco.

“I have concerns with a member of (Nocco’s) team being on the committee,” said Chairman Ted Schrader. “I think it would be appropriate to replace him with someone else.”

Moore defended Pasco Maj. Mel Eakley as the right choice based on Eakley’s credentials in law enforcement and his service as a military veteran.

“I kind of take offense to saying we don’t want anyone on the board who is an everyday average citizen,” he said.

Schrader said he wasn’t questioning Eakley’s qualifications.

Other commissioners and Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano also questioned Moore’s choice of Eakley.

“Perception is everything, ladies and gentlemen,” said Fasano in a public comment to the commission. He questioned the appointment of anyone “associated with constitutional officers.”

But no one made a formal challenge to Eakley’s appointment.

“I respect Mr. Moore,” Schrader said. “I’m really disappointed in his choice. I think it’s a conflict of interest, but it’s your choice.”

The lone woman on the panel will be banker Candace Glewen. She is a replacement for Commissioner Kathryn Starkey’s first choice of Pasco County School Board member Alison Crumbley. Crumbley declined the appointment upon the advice of the school board’s attorney who cited the potential for a conflict of interest.

Commissioner Jack Mariano appointed a woman, Cami Austin, as an alternate.

Former commissioner Pat Mulieri took the commissioners to task for not appointing a more balanced panel to represent the community. “It is ironic,” she said during public comment. “I was supposed to speak at a luncheon (today) celebrating women.”

The panel will tackle critical issues, such as whether Pasco County should have single-member voting districts, term limits and whether the county’s structure should be changed to have an elected administrator rather than one that’s appointed.

Mulieri wondered: ”Why did the board feel only men could make these decisions?”

She also questioned the $60,000 cost “for a consultant you don’t need. I’m standing here today to tell you it will go to $100,000.”

The cost for services from Kurt Spitzer & Associates potentially could exceed $60,000 if the panel requests additional work or travel beyond the flat fee of $5,000 a month, said County Administrator Michele Baker. The fixed rate includes travel for 12 months for approximately 22 to 24 meetings, she said.

Moore suggested panel members might not need a consultant beyond the early organizational meetings. “That’s a pretty large consulting fee in my mind,” he said. “I think you need to leave it up to the committee.”

Baker said the terms of the contract allow Spitzer to terminate his service with a 30-day notice. It also allows the panel to cancel his services immediately upon written notice.

Moore and Commissioner Jack Mariano floated a proposal to allow panel members to approve recommendations based on a simple majority, but Starkey, Schrader and Wells said the requirement of a super-majority vote was essential.

The panel must meet within the next 30 days.

Its recommendations are due to the commission by June 1, 2016. If the panel recommends a charter government, the matter would go to voters in a referendum on the November 2016 general election ballot.

Members of the Pasco County charter advisory panel
Commission Chairman Ted Schrader appointed Billy E. Brown and John J. Gallagher to the panel, with Cliff McDuffie, as alternate

Commissioner Mike Moore appointed Mel Eakley and Gary Bradford, with Joseph Poblick, as alternate

Commissioner Kathryn Starkey appointed Candace Glewen and Dewey Mitchell, with Dominic Scannavino, as alternate

Commissioner Mike Wells Jr., appointed Steve Booth and Tim Holladay, with Jim Driscoll, as alternate

Commissioner Jack Mariano appointed Chuck Grey and Bill Woodard, with Cami Austin, as alternate

Members of the Pasco County legislative delegation appointed Michael Cox, Robert Eckard, John Kinsman, Randy Maggard and Mike Ryan

Published March 18, 2015

Comedy on tap at Zephyrhills pub

March 18, 2015 By Michael Murillo

Entertainment at local bars often includes live music, trivia and special themed events. Now, Cheers 54, at 36616 State Road 54 in Zephyrhills, is adding comedy to the mix.

The pub will host a stand-up comedy night on March 20, the first in a new monthly series, called Next Up.

Other venues in the area aren’t putting regular comedy on the schedule, and that’s exactly why it appealed to owner Kim Beverlin.

Comedian Jared Waters is scheduled to perform at Cheers 54 for a new comedy series beginning March 20. (Courtesy of Jared Waters) — Comedian Jared Waters is scheduled to perform at Cheers 54 for a new comedy series beginning March 20.
(Courtesy of Jared Waters)

“We’ve just been trying to come up with some new ideas for Zephyrhills,” she said. “Something other places don’t do.”

If local residents want to see live comedy, they most likely have to drive to Tampa, Beverlin explained. The comedy night allows the pub’s regulars to enjoy something out of the ordinary, and Beverlin hopes, attract some new business, too.

The show will include sets from four different performers selected by Frankie Lane, a Zephyrhills resident whose entertainment company creates events for Cheers 54.

“Comedy’s been kind of one of the things we always wanted to do,” Lane said.

It took a little work to put the lineup together, which includes comedians Rio Paris, Amanda Jordan, Jared Waters and Antonio Hamilton.

Lane went to see each of them perform before asking them on the show. He wanted to get a feel for how they entertain, and he believes that’s not possible by just reading their credits or watching video.

Each comedian brings something different to the table, so there will be varying styles on display that night.

“I love new, up-and-coming talent, and I figured, what better way to get those guys a platform and get us a great show?” Lane said.

Because Cheers 54 is a venue for adults, the comedy will be adult-oriented as well. And, the performers are looking forward to showing off their wit on a new stage, even if it doesn’t normally have stand-up shows.

“What comedy brings over all other entertainment is joy, the ability for an audience member to take a break from the normal lives and laugh at someone else’s view on the world,” said Jared Waters, one of the performers on the bill.

Waters has been doing comedy for around four years, and performs regularly at local comedy clubs such as Side Splitters in Tampa. He’s also performed at comedy theaters and festivals in North Carolina.

Cheers 54 is able to seat nearly 200 people, so they’re prepared to accommodate a large turnout. And, they’re determined to make the comedy show a regular part of the schedule. The second show is already scheduled for April 17, with a new lineup to be determined.

Initial response has been strong, Beverlin said, noting people are looking forward to comedy night.

She’s expecting strong attendance for their first show.

“I have had very positive feedback. I think we’re going to be packed that night,” Beverlin said. “It sounds like people are interested in having something different in Zephyrhills.”

The show costs $5 and begins at 8:30 p.m. A disc jockey will play music after the comedy sets.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call Cheers 54 at (813) 788-3840.

Piblished March 18, 201u

This Girl Scout project could save lives

March 18, 2015 By B.C. Manion

When most people think of Girl Scouts, they tend to picture little girls selling cookies in front of the local store or singing in a camp sing-along.

It’s unlikely they envision a young woman working on a project to improve traffic safety.

But that’s exactly what Wesley Chapel High School student Samantha Politano is doing.

Wesley Chapel High student Samantha Politano is striving to attain a Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor awarded to a Girl Scout. Her project is to improve safety traffic conditions on Wells Road. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Wesley Chapel High student Samantha Politano is striving to attain a Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor awarded to a Girl Scout. Her project is to improve safety traffic conditions on Wells Road.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

She’s launched a three-year project aimed at making life safer for the students who attend Wesley Chapel High School, Thomas Weightman Middle School and Wesley Chapel Elementary School.

She’s not only interested in making life safer for students. She wants to improve the conditions for all drivers — parents dropping off and picking up their kids, bus drivers making their rounds, and faculty members and students who drive to school.

In addition to making Wells Road safer, she’s also aiming to spread the message of safe driving habits.

She hopes her efforts will encourage drivers to buckle up and put away their cellphones, which will reduce their chance or being injured or having an accident.

She also thinks it would be neat to give Wells Road a second, honorary name — Wildcat Way — to pay tribute to the mascot for the elementary, middle and high schools.

Politano is tackling the traffic safety issue on a number of fronts and has enlisted the aid of Jeff Novotny, former president of the Greater Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce.

Novotny is widely known in business circles around Wesley Chapel, but that’s not why Politano asked him. She wanted his help because he’s married to her third-grade teacher, Amanda, who teaches at Wesley Chapel Elementary.

“Mrs. Novotny was one of the most influential teachers, ever,” Politano said.

So, why would a teenager take on an issue like traffic safety?

In Politano’s case, it’s because she’s striving to attain a Girl Scout Gold Award, the highest honor a Girl Scout can achieve.

The distinction is based on the completion of a project that focuses on making a difference.

Politano said her decision to work on traffic issues was partly inspired by a friend of hers who was injured when a car backed into her in the parking lot.

She said she also heard about a freshman who was struck by a vehicle on Wells Road.

It’s not hard to see that Wells Road has traffic issues during student arrival and departure times.

On one recent afternoon, parents arrived at least 20 minutes before school got out, parking their cars on the edges on both sides of Wells Road.

With cars flanking both sides of the road, passing traffic — including school buses — had to drive close to the middle of the road, and in some cases over the centerline.

Parents also pulled into a parking lot at Wesley Chapel High to wait for their children, reminiscent of the staging area of the cellphone parking lot at Tampa International Airport.

Politano plans to continue her efforts by talking to various advisory groups and elected officials, to draw attention to the problem. She also has been circulating a petition that people can sign on paper or electronically.

One possible solution, Novotny said, would be to have a continuous turn lane down Wells Road, which would give vehicles a place to wait, so other cars could get by.

“That (continuous turn lane) creates enough separation between the west and eastbound vehicles so that they’re not right on top of each other. It gives a little space for people to see what’s happening,” Novotny said.

Besides working on that issue, Politano has already addressed a site-distance problem at the intersection of Wells and Boyette roads.

There was overgrown vegetation near the intersection, making it difficult for drivers to see, she explained. She notified the county, and they responded swiftly to address the problem, she said.

“It was very quick. I was very surprised, pleasantly surprised,” Politano said.

The county already is planning another safety improvement, Novotny said. It is scheduled to install a traffic light at Boyette and Wells roads in 2016.

Besides making conditions safer on the road, Politano has encouraged safer driver behavior.

She used Wesley Chapel High School’s public address system to remind students of the importance of buckling up and not texting while driving.

She used a message that got the students’ attention. She told them it would cost $140 for a ticket, if they weren’t wearing a seat belt or were caught texting while driving.

Politano also did a study to see if her message had any effect.

Before she made the announcement, she counted the cars in the parking lot and observed how many drivers were wearing their seat belts. By her count, it was around 15 percent.

She did the same count after her announcement, and this time about 50 percent were buckled up.

She said she plans to do another observation, to see if her message stuck.

In another effort to raise awareness, she created a sign on a fence between the high school and elementary school.

“Buckle Up!” it exclaims.

Politano realizes she has ambitious goals, but noted she doesn’t have to achieve a three-lane road or modify other drivers’ behavior to qualify for the Girl Scout Gold Award. She merely has to make her best efforts and document them.

She said she’s grateful for Novotny’s help on the project.

“Mr. Novotny has helped immensely, immensely, immensely with this.”

Politano’s mom, Felicia, recalled when her daughter told her what she planned to do for her Gold Award project.

The teenager said: “I’m going to widen Wells Road.”

Her mom responded: “Why don’t you find something easier than that to do.”

While she doesn’t have to get the road widened, Politano does hope for that result.

“The community needs it,” Politano said.

Published March 18, 2015

Lutz Lake Fern Road gets a smoother feel

March 18, 2015 By B.C. Manion

Motorists driving over the portion of Lutz Lake Fern Road from North Dale Mabry to near Oscar Cooler Sports Complex, had the sensation of driving on a washboard.

But the section heading east from that point to U.S. 41, rolled over a new, smooth road.

Motorists driving along a 1.7-mile stretch of Lutz Lake Fern Road will have a smoother ride once a resurfacing project is completed. Hillsborough County officials expect the work to be finished by March 20, barring any weather issues. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Motorists driving along a 1.7-mile stretch of Lutz Lake Fern Road will have a smoother ride once a resurfacing project is completed. Hillsborough County officials expect the work to be finished by March 20, barring any weather issues.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

That’s because the road was open to through traffic over the weekend, before crews went back to work this week to finish the resurfacing project.

The road resurfacing project, about 1.7 miles long, is expected to be completed by March 20, weather permitting, according to Andrea Roshaven a spokeswoman for Hillsborough County.

The project is partially due to a recently completed $5.4 million public works project to connect the Manors of Crystal Lakes subdivision to the county’s water distribution system.

The water line project affected the eastbound travel lane of Lutz Lake Fern Road, requiring it to be refurbished.

The public works department provided an additional $283,000 to refurbish the westbound travel lanes.

The project involves milling and resurfacing.

Local traffic can enter the area, but other motorists are being detoured.

The Manors of Crystal Lakes project involved 4.5 miles of pipeline to create a looped system, giving Manors of Crystal Lakes’ residents a backup, in the event of any water line breaks or disruption.

The 12-inch water pipe was installed along U.S. 41 and Lutz Lake Fern Road. The new pipe also improved water flow, bringing it up to current standards for fire protection.

The biggest change for customers is that the county’s water system uses chloramines in the final disinfection stages instead of chlorine.

Customers should be aware that water that contains chloramines should not be used in home aquariums, fishponds or home kidney dialysis. Water used for those purposes should be treated or filtered to remove the chloramines.

Published March 18, 2015

The adventurous life of Seva Granin

March 18, 2015 By B.C. Manion

In the “Secret Life of Walter Mitty,” author James Thurber describes a meek and mild man who imagines himself as a wartime pilot, an emergency room surgeon and a devil-may-care killer.

While Walter Mitty only dreamed of living a life of adventure, Vsevolod “Seva” Granin, of Land O’ Lakes, actually has been living one.

Seva Granin, left, met up with his friend from college, Zach Lee, to climb to the top of Mt. Fuji. (Courtesy of Vesvolod 'Seva' Granin) — Seva Granin, left, met up with his friend from college, Zach Lee, to climb to the top of Mt. Fuji.
(Courtesy of Vesvolod ‘Seva’ Granin)

Granin graduated from Academy at the Lakes in Land O’ Lakes and later from Rollins College, in Winter Park.

He studied Chinese at both schools, studied abroad in China while enrolled at Rollins, and returned to China to work after graduation.

He’s back home now, after initially working for an American hotel chain in China and later for a Chinese subsidiary of a European logistics company.

Before returning to the United States, he also set off on a number of adventures including backpacking through Vietnam, trekking up Mt. Fuji and running in the Great Wall of China marathon before returning to Pasco County.

Granin, who is an avid photographer, blogger and artist, recorded his experiences through words and photographs in a blog.

“I see things artistically,” said Granin, whose mother is an artist.

In fact, some of the photographs he took in China recently were on exhibit at Hillsborough Community College. He has another exhibit scheduled from May 22 through June 19 at the Oglesby Gallery at Florida State University in Tallahassee.

Granin was born in Moscow and spent his early years in Russia before moving with his family to Land O’ Lakes.

When he arrived here, he was 14 and barely spoke English.

“I was lucky with Academy at the Lakes,” the 26-year-old said. “It’s a small, private school. The teachers are very helpful. I learned quickly and a lot.”

Living in China, however, was an experience that took learning to an entirely new level.

Although he had a foundation in Chinese, he soon discovered how little he knew.

“Chinese is one of those languages it takes a lifetime to master, I think.”

He worked eight months for the hotel chain then networked his way into a job with the logistics company whose main customer is the largest online retailer in Russia.

“For them, we developed a list of over 500 factories in China,” said Granin, who worked with a buyers’ team from Russia.

He and his team handled the factory negotiations, contracts, logistics, the supply chain, getting through customs, documentation and getting goods to the warehouse.

It was challenging, but rewarding work.

“If you’re adaptable to other cultures — it really expands your world,” Granin said.

“If you’re willing to accept different cultures and go so far away from home, you can get amazing work opportunities,” Granin said. “It’s not going to be easy, but you will have that opportunity.”

Granin also took advantage of his time overseas to delve into a series of other adventures.

He did a backpack trip through Southeast Asia, visiting 11 countries in like two months. He also climbed Mt. Fuji in Japan and ran the Great Wall marathon in China.

The Great Wall marathon was grueling.

He describes that experience in blog entries.

In the beginning, he remembers taking his first steps and “raising my head up and seeing a few white doves flying a few meters over my head, from left to right. (It was a) simple, short and beautiful moment, but the crowd around me was picking up speed, and so was I. The marathon was on.”

Shortly after the race began, though, “I felt a sharp and intense cramp in my right calf. Ouch, that was sudden and painful.”

Around a quarter of the way into the race, he was slowed down and limping.

“What do you do? Do you stop? Do you quit? Do you stretch for as long as it takes?”

He stretched for a bit and even though his muscles did not relax, he decided to continue.

There were many places along the route that were difficult to navigate, but he kept going, describing his increasing pain.

“…the spaghetti legs with iron shackles were barely cooperating with the mind, the desert dry cotton mouth was making it hard to breathe and swallow.”

He wasn’t the only one struggling.

“People were stumbling, leaning on the (Great) Wall, sitting, laying down, crawling … Medics ran up to each person.”

But he pushed through the pain and finished the race.

Granin said he decided to return home because he missed his family, but now is applying to graduate school — waiting to see where he’ll start the next chapter in life.

If you would like to read more about Granin’s adventures, visit Vgranin.com.

Published March 18, 2015

Pasco commissioners approve a study for Wiregrass Sports Park

March 18, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Pasco County commissioners are in a quandary about the fate of the proposed Wiregrass Sports Park. Should they try again to work a deal for a world-class sports complex or build a district park for local sports teams?

Commissioners voted 4-1 on March 10 to take a wait-and-see approach with a feasibility study that will gauge the market for a sports complex with the potential to draw national tournaments, and yield millions in tourism tax dollars.

Jack Mariano (File Photo) — Jack Mariano
(File Photo)

The results also could show that the county’s money is better spent on a park that caters to local sports teams.

The study is intended to give county officials, residents and potential park operators an idea of what will work at the park site, located near Bruce B. Downs Boulevard off State Road 56.

“We think we’ll get the ability to expedite (the process) because people will understand it better, and we think the quality of applications will improve,” said Richard Gehring, the county’s planning and development administrator.

Johnson Consulting Inc., a sports consulting firm with national and international clients, will be paid $35,000 for the study, expected to take less than 12 weeks.

The study will include marketing and needs assessments as well as recommendations on development costs, operating and financial responsibilities, and funding options.

“I think it’s time to move forward,” said Commissioner Mike Moore. “It’s a positive. People in my district want to see it sooner rather than later.”

Commissioner Jack Mariano voted against the study. Instead of spending money on a study, he said county officials should explore why the deal with Pasco Sports LLC to build a multimillion-dollar sports complex fell apart.

“I’d like to find out why he (Gary Sheffield) didn’t like the contract,” Mariano said. “We could look at that first.”

In December, commissioners dropped plans to partner with Pasco Sports to build a sports complex on 100 acres near The Shops at Wiregrass regional shopping mall. The land is part of more than 200 acres donated to the county by the Porter family.

Partners James Talton and former major league baseball player Gary Sheffield had proposed to build 20 ball fields and dormitories on the site. They had envisioned a youth baseball camp that would attract national tournaments and deliver more than $300 million annually in economic impact to the county.

According to the agreement, the county would commit between $11 million and $14 million in tourism dollars to the project. But Talton and Sheffield let a deadline pass without delivering on a pledge to provide $3 million for the complex’s design.

Other projects, both rumored and real, are competing with the proposed sports complex.

Z Mitch LLC had a groundbreaking in February for a major ice hockey and sports complex off Interstate 75 at the State Road interchange in Wesley Chapel. The facility is expected to open in fall 2015 with four full-size rinks. But the 150,000-square-foot facility will accommodate a wide range of sports including soccer, lacrosse and basketball.

Rumors also persist that Hillsborough County may be in line for a new sports facility.

Most Pasco commissioners agreed the feasibility study would be a valuable tool in sorting out the county’s options.

“It will either validate or invalidate the marketing of the complex and what’s needed in this area,” said Chairman Ted Schrader. “It will give us the confidence to go forward with some sort of park project.”

Published March 18, 2015