The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Local News

Girl Scouts recognize women of distinction

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Six women have been named honorees of Girl Scouts of West Central Florida’s (GSWCF) Annual Women of Distinction and will be celebrated at a luncheon on International Women’s Day on March 8, at Armature Works.

The event is in its 32nd year and is the longest running Women’s History month celebration, attracting more than 600 business and community leaders from across Tampa Bay, according to a news release.

The 2024 Women of Distinction are:

  • Marilyn Alvarez, master deputy of the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office
  • Alison Barlow, executive director, St. Petersburg Innovation District
  • Ann E. Dunwoody, Gen. (Retired) and first female Four-Star General in the United States Army
  • Bemetra Simmons, president and CEO of Tampa Bay Partnership, and co-founder of Corporate Homie

In addition, GSWCF named Diana Walker as the 2024 Woman of Promise, an award given to exceptional women under age 40. Walker is the special projects coordinator at Hillsborough County Economic Development Minority & Small Business.

The organization also will induct Renee Vaughn into the Women of Distinction Hall of Fame. Vaughn is the president of the Williams Consulting Group, a public relations and marketing firm in Tampa. She was first honored as a Woman of Distinction in 2015.

“For 30-plus years, Women of Distinction has been one of Tampa Bay’s premier luncheons to celebrate Women’s History Month,” said Cami Gibertini, president of the board of directors of GSWCF, in the release.

“As the only fundraising event hosted annually by our local Girl Scouts, this is also the best opportunity for our community and business leaders to invest in future women leaders by showing they support Girl Scouts,” said Gibertini.

To learn more about Women of Distinction, visit GSWCF.org/WOD.

For information about sponsorship opportunities, email Clara Moll, chief development officer, at .

Alison Barlow
Ann Dunwoody
Bemetra Simmons
Diana Walker
Marilyn Alvarez
Renee Vaughn

 

Old Pasco Road widening expected to cause delays

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Construction work that has begun on Old Pasco Road is expected to cause delays for those who travel on the road in Wesley Chapel. The project calls for widening Old Pasco Road, from just south of Sonny Drive to north of Overpass Road.

The work involves adding two travel lanes, a median, a sidewalk, a multi-use path and lighting. The project also includes adding two new traffic signals — one at Lindenhurst Drive and another at the Tampa Bay North Business Park driveway.

Work hours on the project are Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Motorists should expect single-lane closures between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m., with message boards directing traffic.

The project is expected to take 20 months, with an expected completion date of August 2025.

B.R.W. Contracting Inc., is the contractor for this county project.

Published January 10, 2024

Here’s a New Year’s resolution for you: Go out and have some fun!

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Of course, life does have its share of work – so shouldn’t it also have its share of fun?

We think so, so we compiled a few ideas to help you get 2024 off to a good start.

We hope you’ll find something here that will add a new bounce to your step, a little laughter with others, and just generally add joy to your life.

Note: This listing only covers the first few months of 2024. Check back again for ways to have fun later in the year.

Steam rises from the huge vat containing sugar cane juice, as volunteers Marcus Copeland, of Dade City, left, and Jasper Starnes, of Zephyrhills, work on skimming any impurities that bubble to the top during the sugar cane syrup-making process. The demonstration occurred in the Cane Mill at a previous Raising Cane and Moonshine Festival. (File)

January
Raising Cane & Moonshine Festival
When: Jan. 13, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, in Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for children under age 5. Parking is free.
Details: The event will feature live sugar cane syrup making, a syrup tasting contest, live music, vendors, blacksmith demonstrations, model trains, ax throwing, and more. All museum buildings will be open to tour. No pets or coolers will be permitted.
Info: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

The Kumquat Festival celebrates the kumquat — a fruit grown in nearby St. Joe, which is known as the Kumquat Capital of the World. The annual event also allows Dade City to show off its southern charm, the Historic Pasco County Courthouse and the downtown shops and restaurants, along with the festival’s vendors and activities. This year’s festival is on Jan. 27.

26th annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
Cost: Free admission; parking available in public and private lots in downtown
Details: Visitors can enjoy a slice of kumquat pie, drink a glass of kumquat beer and take home some kumquats or a variety of goodies celebrating the tiny orange-colored fruit.
Info: DadeCityChamber.org, or contact The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce at 352-567-3769 or 

February
35th annual Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for children under 5. 
Details: The event features a demonstration of strength during the Southern Draft Horse Association’s Draft Horse Pull, which begins at the stroke of noon. It also showcases the intricate work completed by quilters. In addition to the quilt exhibition, there will be a quilt appraiser, live entertainment and vendors.
Info: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

Pigz in Z’Hills Barbecue & Blues Festival
When: Feb. 10, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Fifth Avenue, in Zephyrhills
Cost: Many free and paid parking options will be available
Details: Live blues music, barbecue vendors, a cornhole tournament, grilling competition, wing eating contest, hog calling contest, business expo and more.
Info: ZephyrhillsChamber.org

The Orbiter is seen in motion at a previous Pasco County Fair. This thrill ride lifts and spins riders, as they sit in cars, attached to the Orbiter’s arms. This year, the fair is set for Feb. 19 through Feb. 25.

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 19 through Feb. 25
Where: Pasco County Fairground, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 6 to 12; free for those age 5 and under (Feb. 20 is carload night. The charge is $70 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., for a carload of up to six belted passengers, which includes admission and a ride wristband.)
Details: The fair will feature rides, food, entertainment and all sorts of competitions.
Info: PascoCountyFair.com

Steve Melton, a Dade City rancher and cowboy poet, recites a poem he calls, ‘The Rain at Billy Goat Sink.’ Melton shared about a dozen poems and stories with the audience inside the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village’s Mabel Jordan Barn, during the inaugural Cracker Cowboy Day event. This year’s event is set for March 2.

March
Cracker Cowboy Day
When: March 2, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for children, free for children under age 5
Details: Get ready to be transported back to the time when Florida’s cracker cowboys rounded up cattle through the sound of their trusty whips. There also will be demonstrations galore, as well as chances for children to practice their roping skills and visit a petting zoo. Other features include Cowboy Poetry, samples from a local distillery, vendors and more.
Info: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

Pasco Blues Fest
When: March 9, noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: $15 for early birds; $25 general admission
Details: Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets as they listen to three bands at the event. There will be food and drink available for purchase. This is a kid and pet-friendly event.
Info: FloridaPenguinProductions.com

Cody, an 8-year-old Yorkie, was dressed as a tarantula for the dog costume contest by Orkin Man Scott Smith, of Clermont. This year’s event is set for March 16.

Dogs’ Day in Dade City
When: March 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park, 37603 Meridian Ave., in Dade City (on Meridian across from the Edwinola)
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons and their furry friends can team up for activities including a dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, K-9 challenge, a Canine Got Talent contest, and an ice cream/yogurt eating competition. Vendors will be on hand (and are still being accepted for the event).
Info: Contact Lucy Avila at 352-424-4972 or

Jelly Bean Fling
When: March 16, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: There will be live entertainment and craft demonstrations, and of course, kids will be able to have their picture taken with the Easter bunny, go on an egg hunt and take advantage of other activities.
Info: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

Check back around April to find another slate of activities for future months.

Published January 10, 2024

Planning board advocates giving public a chance to weigh in on Lacoochee plan

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The Pasco County Planning Commission is asking the Pasco County Commission to direct county staff to provide a second presentation on the Greater Lacoochee Plan, but this time to allow public comment to provide feedback on the plan.

The planning board received a Lacoochee Plan presentation before, but at that session, the public’s only opportunity to comment was at the beginning of the meeting — before the planning board was briefed on the plan.

During the planning board’s Dec. 7 meeting, Nancy Hazelwood, a resident who has been active for years in the efforts to preserve Pasco’s rural areas, asked the planning board to request another presentation on the Lacoochee plan.

She told the planning board: “The plan is over 30 pages long and it was only given 10 or 15 minutes to cover the material.

“Because of the lateness of the evening, the planning board had no time to ask questions or give relevant information on it.

“I don’t know how many others came to hear it or watch the meeting, but I stayed a very long time. I got there at the beginning and I stayed until 8 o’clock or 8:30, when it was over.

“The project could be a game-changer. It will be a game-changer for the Northeast Rural protected area. Presenting this plan without enough time for discussion is disenfranchising the Pasco citizens by not letting us hear the plan and make written comments to the BCC (Pasco County Commission) before it goes to that board.

“So, what’s the hurry? It’s part of the 2050 Plan (update). Let’s bring it back,” she said.

Hazelwood also noted that she was representing several members involved in developing the original Northeast Pasco Rural Pasco Overlay District. They were not able to attend because of illness or medical appointments, she said.

Nectarios Pittos, director of planning and development, told the planning board: “The plan is a non-binding concept plan. It was scheduled for presentation, I believe in October, here at the Planning Commission. It was not as a public hearing, however, just as a presentation to the planning commission that this was the plan.

“It was originally scheduled for the Nov. 14 board of county commissioners meeting, again for presentation, as it is a non-binding concept plan,” Pittos said.

That presentation was rescheduled into January because the board didn’t have time to take it up at the November meeting, Pittos said.

“The ball, right now, is with the board of county commissioners. To have it reheard at the planning commission, that would have to be a request made to the board,” Pittos said.

Planning board member Derek Pontlitz noted: “It’s a concept plan, then after that, there are workshops that are going to be held.”

Pittos added: “The non-binding concept plan definitely has ideas that can then be downloaded into the Pasco 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update. That’s going to be a work in progress over the next year or so, for the Pasco 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update.

But Hazelwood’s request resonated with planning board member Jon Moody, who made a motion to ask planning staff to request another presentation for the planning board and to accept public comment.

Moody noted that would “at least allow us to hear some public comment on it, so that it can get incorporated into any message or recommendation that needs to get delivered to the board.”

Moody said it would be helpful for the public to “be able to hear the entirety of the plan — all of the high points, the low points and the in-betweens, and to make their comments after they’ve got all of the information.”

The planning board approved Moody’s motion unanimously, with Chairman Charles Grey absent.

Two other residents attending the Dec. 7 meeting thanked the planning board for its action.

Lisa Moretti, who has been active in efforts to protect Pasco’s rural areas, told the planning board: “I know that we get called squawking chickens. I’m tired of being a squawking chicken. But I would also say, if you haven’t watched the movie ‘Chicken Run’ lately, I suggest you do, because we’re just going to keep squawking.

“I’m really grateful that you chose to bring the Lacoochee plan back. It’s very important. Some of the things that are in that plan literally gut the rural area, the Northeast Rural Area, and dramatically change some of the things.

“I know there are maps that some of you have not seen before that have been presented by the developer that move the transition area boundaries inside the rural area, rather than having them be transitions outside. I think that is a travesty. So, I’m really grateful that you are willing to hear that again and allow us to come back and bring comment.”

Moretti said it’s important to determine whether the plan is truly a non-binding concept plan, or something more.

“We have a commissioner walking around saying, ‘This is an implementation plan. It’s a done deal. You might as well just sit down and be quiet.’

“That’s not in my DNA because what’s happening is so important.

“And, if it is an implementation plan, we need to be clear on that. If it’s an implementation plan, we need to have even more public comment.

“If it’s just, ‘Here’s our plan, we’re presenting it to you,‘ we need to have comment there, too, but we still have some leeway and negotiation time.

“If it’s an implementation plan, as we’ve been told by our commissioner, I’ve got serious issues with that.

“I encourage you to really take a hard look at that plan, and clearly define exactly what it is,” Moretti said.

Published January 10, 2024

Making positive change needs not be tied to a certain time of year

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This is the time of year where we tend to welcome change.  

We usually let others know what we want to change, for the sake of accountability, and then we begin the endeavor.

Typically, we begin with great enthusiasm and intentions. Unfortunately, all too often, we give it up after a few weeks.

Why do so many of us — an estimated 80% — throw in the towel so early?  

Well, there’s at least one theory out there that explains this. It’s called the Transtheoretical Model, or the Stages of Change Model.  

Many habit changes can be achieved through environmental changes. Simply having more healthy food items around the house instead of high-calorie ones, or using smaller plates and bowls, can set you up for success in replacing bad habits. (Pixabay.com)

The true problem may be that despite the new year representing a fresh start, you just weren’t in the right stage to make the long-term change at the time.  

In other words, it doesn’t mean you’ll never get to where you want to be, it just means you weren’t ready to launch into it on Jan. 1.

Some people are only ready to make a change after they’ve hit rock bottom, or a major life event occurs. Those situational changes can include a divorce, a diagnosis or finding out that you’re having a baby.

For others, being ready to change can come on their own terms or by being inspired by someone else.

In any event, there are five stages of change:  

Precontemplation: Having no intention to make a change in the next six months.
Most people in this stage don’t realize they need to change or will defend their bad habit and focus on the cons of the change, instead of the pros.
There is no motivation to change until there is a change in life circumstances or they become more conscious of their actions.

Contemplation: Having the intention to make a change within six months.
Here, people see that their habits are problematic, and they weigh the pros and cons of change equally, though are still hesitant about making a change.
They’re more receptive to hearing others’ stories and seeking help.

Preparation: Ready to make a change in the next 30 days.
People here believe the change will improve their livelihood, and start taking small steps toward the change, such as touring a gym, looking up support groups, or reading self-help books.
This is the “research” or “information gathering” stage, and they believe the pros outweigh the cons.

Action: The change has been implemented within the past six months with intentions to continue.

Maintenance: The change has been sustained for six months or more.
Here, you maintain the habit to prevent relapsing to a previous stage.
This stage will last as long as necessary, up to several years.
In one study on smoking, 43% returned to smoking after 12 months of quitting, but five years later, the relapse rate was 7%.
People in the maintenance stage still need support, even if they feel confident in sustaining the change. 

One of the main issues when it comes to setting goals, whether for the new year or any time of year, is that people often skip the preparation stage.  

Going from contemplation to action can set one up for failure because the individual failed to thoroughly research what it will take to change his or her lifestyle, such as what’s required to implement it, what sacrifices will be necessary and what resources are available.

It’s important to consider challenges and ways to overcome them before taking action to avoid a long-term relapse.  

For instance, if you’re trying to cook more at home, what’s the plan if you get stuck at work?

Will you meal prep each evening prior to prevent the temptation of stopping for fast food?  

Will you delegate meal tasks to your partner or older children, if you need help?  

Be sure you have strategies in place to minimize setbacks.  

Also, if you do stop for fast food, it doesn’t mean you have to drop your attempt to change. It just means you had an off day and you will get back to your healthier routine the next day.

It’s important to realize that relapse is a normal part of the process.  

It’s not the relapse that determines your success, it’s your response to it.

Accept in advance that there will be bad days, and go easy on yourself when something takes you off course every now and then.

Also, keep in mind there are some limitations to the stages of change theory, as there’s plenty of gray area related to any habit change.

For example, there are people who may want to make a change, but they are thwarted by their environment. Living in a food desert, for instance, makes it difficult to access fresh food.

The change theory also fails to address the challenges of trying to tackle more than one behavior change at the same time.

Regardless, we probably see ourselves in our own health journeys within these stages, and the same goes for our loved ones, too.

If you’ve felt frustrated having the same conversation about habit changes with a loved one, this theory could explain why there hasn’t been much progress.  

So how do you make a habit stick?  

Even if you finally feel ready and you did all the research, how do you take that leap into action, make it to maintenance, and then stick to it?

Here are some suggestions from the American Heart Association:

First, identify the cue that causes the bad habit.  

It could be as simple as walking past a vending machine that you automatically stop at throughout the workday, or eating chips whenever you watch TV in the living room.

Once you realize the cue, you must disrupt it, such as taking a different path in your office building or watching TV in a different room that you don’t associate the chips with.

Replace the bad behavior with a good one instead of just ending the bad behavior by itself.  

The new path around your office can now be a cue for having a healthy snack when you return to your desk, whether it’s a handful of nuts or some grapes.  

It’s important to keep things simple because you want your brain to eventually take on the new habit where it goes into “autopilot” mode. This takes some time (sometimes as much as two months), so make the transition easy by avoiding complex replacement habits.

Also, keep in mind that even your bad habits were not second nature in the beginning.  

To give yourself a chance for success, replace habit cues so your brain associates the new signal with an improved habit.

Make sure you have laid the groundwork for success by having strategies to address relapses. And, be faithful to building new habits.

If you do that, the successful days will turn into months, and then into years.

Here’s wishing you a 2024 that provides ample opportunities for you to embark on bringing the changes you want to see in your life. 

Shari Bresin is the Family & Consumer Science Agent for the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Cooperative Extension Pasco County. Pasco County Extension.

Published January 10, 2024

It’s a dog-gone pool party

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There are bars, many of which allow four-legged canine friends to accompany their own owners.

And then there are dog bars. 

Which is not to say dogs are sitting around — maybe even playing poker — with adult beverages. (At least, many of us wish this could happen).

No, there are a handful of dog “bars” that are springing up, which allow dogs, small and large, off their leashes, so they can play, romp and even make new friends while the owners enjoy an adult beverage.

Mutts & Martinis, located in downtown St. Petersburg, is a 21-and-up sports bar that features a small saltwater pool for your four-legged companions. Gregarious canines can swim, romp, play and make new friends, while owners grab a drink or a bite to eat. The sports bar also features several events, such as breed meet-ups, costume parties, trivia and ladies nights, and more. (Mike Camunas)

They are enclosed dog parks — but just a little extra to not only entertain the pups, but the owners, as well.

Now, there’s even more.

Mutts & Martinis isn’t the only dog bar in downtown St. Petersburg, but it is the only one that features a pool. That’s right, this new dog bar takes the splash area a step further and has a dog-only pool for pooches.

And that, my dog-loving readers, is why heading over there is totally worth the trip.

Splish splash — not a dog bath
Mutts & Martinis features a 10-foot, saltwater, dog-only pool, complete with a few water streams, rafts and plenty of tennis balls for the pups.

It’s barely 2-3 feet deep, so there won’t be any actual swimming — except for the smaller dogs — so expect a lot of romping, and splashing, around the pool’s edge.

What’s great about Mutts & Martinis is that the sports bar employs “lifeguards,” or employees that hang out in the pool area and play with the dogs. Sure, it sounds like a tough job, but it’s a lot like a kids’ indoor gym that also has employees keeping a watchful eye. In this case, it allows dog owners to enjoy food and drinks.

And that’s definitely the big appeal of Mutts & Martinis — bartenders will bring out the drinks and food, as dogs need to be leashed around the bar area. But there are plenty of shaded tables and seats for owners while the pups partake in the pool.

The sports bar features several other areas the dogs can enjoy, they just have to be leashed to do so. However, there also is a small-dog area, where the little ones can go off-leash and roam around, without feeling too overwhelmed by the chaotic pool area or larger dogs.

Hunter S. Camunas, the four-legged companion of The Laker/Lutz News Staff Writer Mike Camunas, takes a breather and enjoys the sunny surroundings of Mutts & Martinis, a dog sports bar in downtown St. Petersburg that features a 10-foot saltwater, dog-only pool.

Pooling together options
And yet, Mutts & Martinis is more than just a dog bar with a pool. 

Sure, that is the main feature that stands out from the rest, but the establishment goes beyond just pool playtime.

Regularly, like any other sports bar, Mutts & Martinis will host trivia nights, theme nights, costume parties for the pups, certain holiday and sporting event specials, and even breed meetups. 

The bar will host a “yappy” hour time in which owners of a certain breed of dog can all meet each other, while the dogs play. The bar does it for breeds, small and large, and several of the meetups partner with organizations such as animal shelters and those dedicated to certain breeds of dogs.

Mutts & Martinis certainly goes the distance to be as pet- friendly as possible.

In downtown St. Petersburg, dog owners can bring their dogs, small and large, to Mutts & Martinis to let their furry friends play around, while they grab a bite or drink at this dog-friendly sports bar.

Working like a dog
Again, Mutts & Martinis is, by far, not the only local dog bar — but alas, there are none currently located in Pasco County. (Anyone looking for a new business idea?)

However, Mutts & Martinis stands out because it has a dog-only pool, which isn’t to say the other dog bars we’ve listed aren’t great in their own right (I should know, I’ve been to them all with my pup, Hunter).

In fact, each dog bar features its own uniqueness and events that make it worthy of its featured article. 

It’s just that Mutts & Martinis showcases a pool for the pooches.

Making this bar worth the trip — especially for the dogs.

Mutts & Martinis
Where: 2900 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
Hours: Wednesdays and Thursdays, 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays, Noon to 10 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Cost: $10 day pass. Registration is required to enter, as is proof of all current and up-to-date vaccinations for dogs.
Details: A 21-and-up sports bar in downtown St. Petersburg that features a 10-foot saltwater, dog-only pool and play area. Food and drink specials also are available. The sports bar also has employees that interact with the pups, as well as complimentary toys and towels on hand by the pool.|
Info: Visit MuttsAndMartinisOnCentral.com.

Other Dog Bar Options

Two Shepherds
Where: 4813 N Grady Ave., Tampa
TwoShepherdsTaproom.com

The Dog Bar
Where: 2300 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
DogBarStPete.com

Pups Pub Tampa
Where: 2202 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
PupsPubCo.com

Hair of the Dog Park
Where: 4211 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa
HairOfTheDogParkAndBar.com

Published January 03, 2024

Dogs scamper around the 10-foot pool at Mutts & Martinis as their owners enjoy a drink or two and watch on in delight. The sports bar also holds breed meetups regularly.
Dogs scamper around the 10-foot pool at Mutts & Martinis as their owners enjoy a drink or two and watch on in delight. The sports bar also holds breed meetups regularly.
Dogs scamper around the 10-foot pool at Mutts & Martinis as their owners enjoy a drink or two and watch on in delight. The sports bar also holds breed meetups regularly.

Efforts ramping up on creation of the Pasco 2050 Plan update

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This coming year is expected to be busy for the county’s planners and its consultants, as efforts rev up to finalize the data set and proposed policies to guide Pasco’s growth through the year 2050.

The comprehensive plan is the long-range vision of the county.

The planning document is required by Florida statute, and state law also requires it to be updated.

The State Road 52 and Interstate 75 interchange is expected to become far busier, as large industrial projects that are planned near the interchange are developed. Pasco County has approved recent incentive packages that are expected to yield more than 8,000 jobs in the area. The Pasco County Commission has identified planning for industrial development as one of the county’s key needs. (File)

The comprehensive plan provides a vision and policies that influence future planning decisions and affects economic development, transportation, parks, natural resources and other aspects of life within the county.

Pasco is in Year Four of a five-year planning effort, which has involved soliciting feedback from the public and getting input from technical advisory groups, interested stakeholders and elected officials, too.

Those groups have helped to formulate a vision for the county’s future, have identified issues and suggested strategies.

“Year Four is going to be all about writing the plan, or the plan update, I should say,” said Nectarios Pittos, the county’s director of planning and development.

Within the next 12 months, consultants will finalize data sets to help set the course for the plan. The information that will be used to work out the details will include population projects, current levels of public services and discussions over whether levels of services should change, based on the plan’s vision.

Chris Dougherty, project manager with the county’s consultants, Inspire Placemaking Collective, outlined activities that are scheduled for 2024, as the planning work continues.

The consulting company, based in Orlando, along with county planners, will continue to engage with groups interested in taking part in the process. They also will work internally with Pasco County departments.

“So, whether it’s the MPO (Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization), or the (Pasco County) strategic planning process, or the utility master planning process — we’re continuing to coordinate with those teams on a continuing basis,” Dougherty said.

2050 plan will have revised maps
“We’ll be updating your map series,” he added.

Preserving rural areas in Pasco County has been identified as a key priority during community meetings and stakeholder meetings, as efforts continue to develop the 2050 Plan update. Striving to balance the desire for rural places along with the need to accommodate growth likely will be a source of considerable debate as efforts continue to develop the long-range plan.

“That’s another part of that comprehensive plan that gets adopted as part of those goals, objectives and policies to your future land use map,” he explained.

“You have a wetlands map, floodplain — those are all maps that need to be adopted, as well, so, we’ll be updating those as part of this process.

“When we get about three-quarters through the year, we’ll have recommendations for specific changes to the plan. We’re going to present those to you all, when we have them ready,” he told the county board, during a discussion on Oct. 24.

At the end of 2024, the consultants will be done with its recommendations and the final stages of the plan update will begin.

In Year Five, work will involve updating maps and policies.

“We address multiple topics in the comprehensive plan, whether it’s housing, transportation, conservation and recreation and open space. So, it’s a broad document. It touches on a lot of different items,” Dougherty said.

The plan’s vision, derived from community engagement efforts, will be the beacon guiding the process for writing the plan, he said.

“We really had a lot of amazing conversations,” Dougherty said, describing the community engagement efforts.

Conversations that occurred at community meetings, in stakeholder sessions and with members of elected and advisory boards have generated lists of priorities and strategies.

Distinct vision themes emerged for a vision of Pasco in 2050.

The Pasco 2050 Plan update offers an opportunity to set the stage for how Pasco County wants to grow and develop during the next 25 years. Pasco’s elected leaders have made it clear that they want the county to generate more jobs so that its residents do not need to commute to nearby counties for work. The county board and residents also have expressed a desire for communities where it is easy to get from place to place, without having to use vehicles.

Those themes describe Pasco as a county that:

— Has walkable and vibrant neighborhoods that are well-connected, well-designed and aesthetically pleasing
— Values its beautiful landscape and fiercely protects the natural environment
— Provides an adequate supply of housing for all income levels and life stages
— Preserves its natural resources
— Has increased its transportation efficiency
— Protects its rural lands and character
— Expands its parks systems
— Strengthens its resiliency
Some strategies that have been suggested include:

— Require stronger tree preservation regulations for new development
— Cultivate and preserve wildlife corridors through the county’s Environmental Lands and Acquisition Management Program (ELAMP)
— Ensure the protection of aquifer recharge from new and existing development
— Expand efforts to monitor, protect and increase the county’s water supply

Planning for growth, not just reacting to it
Dougherty told commissioners: “The nice thing about this is that we can be proactive about growth, rather than reactive. So we can develop those goals, objectives and policies to help us provide you guidance down the road.”

The work to be done will result in two volumes, one relating to data and analysis and the other resulting in goals, objectives and policies, he said.

The goals, objectives and policies are “where the rubber meets the road,” he added.

In Year Five, “we’re going to share what we came up with and have folks give us their ideas and thoughts about the changes that we propose.”

No doubt the county board will be discussing big-picture issues such as future development plans for Lacoochee; taking a closer look at the special planning districts of the Villages of Pasadena Hills and Connected City; and how the county will preserve industrial lands to generate jobs.

They also are likely to tackle challenges such as improving transportation, protecting the environment and expanding recreational opportunities.

Plus, they are likely to consider using planning tools to promote the development of communities that feature easy ways to get from place to place, without driving.

To keep abreast of the planning efforts, visit Pasco2050.com.

Published January 03, 2024

Students in store for real-world experience

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It’s not uncommon for high school students to get a part-time job.

They may work at the mall or a fast-food restaurant or Publix, but not every teen finds themselves in the workforce.

Angeline Academy of Innovation students Davina Horowitz, left, Michael Colon, center, and business instructor and teacher Chad Mallo, right, work the counter at the Bullseye Corner Store at the first-year school in Land O’ Lakes. The store, which opened in December, will be fully student run, with Mallo’s students gaining real-world experience in retail, customer service, marketing and advertising, managerial fields and more. The store will feature fun items for students, as well as school-branded gear. (Mike Camunas)

Angeline Academy of Innovation, the first-year magnet school in Land O’ Lakes, is looking to change that.

In December, the school opened Bullseye Corner Store, which will be run by students, many of them taking business and other like-minded classes. They’ll be unpaid “employees,” but still do everything an employee might do at, say, Gap or American Eagle, all from sales, customer service, managerial skills, marketing, advertising, social media promotion, ordering, quality control, stocking and even housekeeping.

“We’re going to operate this like a real-world store,” Angeline business instructor and teacher Chad Mallo said. “So it’s similar to the real-world experience, not a cookie-cutter class or experience, that way they know what to do whether here or at their first real job or next job.”

Mallo thought having a student fully run store would be beneficial to them, especially beyond what he can teach or talk about in a classroom. Which is why whoever is hired at Bullseye will be required to apply with a resume and have a sit-down interview.

Angeline Academy of Innovation business instructor and teacher Chad Mallo will guide and educate his students to run Bullseye Corner Store at the first-year school in Land O’ Lakes, where they’ll learn real-life skills on how to work in customer service, as well as build a resume and apply for jobs.

“I want them to go through the whole real-world process,” Mallo added. “It won’t just be sales. They’re going to have job titles and responsibilities like they would at any other store or business and they’ll all have to do their jobs.”

Bullseye Corner Store will actually have two sides to it. 

One side of the store will feature items like pens, stickers, toys, candy and other school supplies that students can obtain once they have enough Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) points to cash in. These items will be donated by parents.

On the other side of the store, it will actually sell, for money, school-branded gear with the school logo and mascot, The Archers. These will range from shirts, sweatshirts, hats and more, however, as part of their jobs, the students will market and research the store and see what items are their best sellers or in demand.

The monies made from these sales will go back into the school, usually to help fund field trips or other projects.

“All that stuff, we’re learning in class,” freshman shop worker Davina Horowitz said. “We’re learning how to fill out applications, resumes, interview techniques — all of which were used to work at the school store, but also for more jobs. … We’re given the opportunity to run (the store), to have the responsibility to run it because usually admin or staff volunteers run a school store.

Bullseye Corner Store co-workers Davina Horowitz, left, and Michael Colon go over some housekeeping and customer service items for their ‘jobs’ at the store at Angeline Academy of Innovation in Land O’ Lakes, which will be fully run by students.

“I think that makes it more of a school store because having students run it, that really not only gives us the experience, but really makes a school store — and it’ll be great that students are running it.”

“We have to go through the roles and learn the responsibilities,” sophomore co-worker Michael Colon added. “We will learn what a manager really does and what they go through. It’ll be interesting because we’ll be learning about it on the job, both at the store and in class.

“We’re a school store, but run by the students — that’s what makes us different from other school stores.”

Mallo’s classes also collaborated with the school’s Career Technical & Agricultural Education team — Michael Marchesano, Nichole Matthews, Loc Hoang and Lisa Witfoth — to include those students as part of running the store. The students combined to pick the name of the store and work out all the details.

Angeline Academy of Innovation Business Instructor and teacher Chad Mallo, right, speaks with four of his students, from left to right: Davina Horowitz, Lianna Gonzalez, Michael Colon and Brandon Miller, at the school’s newest business, Bullseye Corner Store.

They also approved store designs and builds that came from Mark Fox, director of maintenance services, and Jimmy Witfoth, senior crew chief, who would eventually install the cabinets. They also approved the neon sign, which was built and installed by Kelvin Valle of Transonic Laser Engraving.

And the store is already seeing anxious customers.

“Hey, if you build (it), they will come (laughs),” Mallo added.

But the real excitement is coming from, believe it or not, the student employees, who are ready to get their hands on the real-life experience. They’re ready to sell and even deal with customers.

“This is going to give us a lot of experience for other jobs,” Horowitz said. “We may not get paid, but it will pay off.”

“I’m excited to get it up and running,” Colon said. “No, I’m not getting paid, but the experience is great, which I think we’re all looking forward to, especially finally having customers.”

Mallo agrees.

“We’re covering everything,” Mallo said. “I tell the students to have a smiling face, even if customers are rude, but don’t be confrontational. If there is a ‘situation,’ try to de-escalate it, just like you would teach an employee in the real world.

“And to keep a smile, and if all else fails, come get Mr. Mallo (laughs).”

Published January 03, 2024

School boards want to have a say in reducing public school regulations

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Pasco County Schools has joined other school boards around the state in seeking changes to state regulations relating to schools.

School board member Colleen Beaudoin put it this way during the board’s Dec. 5 meeting: “This is an opportunity to help shape the future.

“Florida has expanded vouchers and scholarships, and now it is time to further the deregulation to help traditional public schools, as well.

Colleen Beaudoin (File)

“We are not asking on compromising on accountability — I am sure that we all agree that accountability is important,” Beaudoin said.

“It’s just that we don’t want students penalized, or kept from graduating, because of one score on one assessment, and these are decisions best made by educators, working with their parents.

“This is important advocacy that we can do right now.

“We can even ask our parents for help,” she said.

She told her colleagues: “I’m sure you probably got some of the same emails as I’ve received from parents.

“There was one just last week about a child who has met all of the graduation requirements, except for a test score. So, I hope we can do something to help these students,” Beaudoin said.

School board chairwoman Megan Harding agreed.

She said a letter that will be sent to state lawmakers notes the number of students within the district that have been affected by that.

School board member Cynthia Armstrong said the board’s approach must be positive, to avoid risking deregulation all together.

Harding agreed: “So, I do want to make it positive, 100%, but I do think it’s important that we do put how it’s affecting our kiddos,” she said.

Armstrong responded: “That’s a positive thing. The deregulation would help our kids.”

School board member Alison Crumbley noted: “The district wants to make sure its advocacy is student-focused.”

Assistant superintendent Betsy Kuhn said statistics were compiled by district staff to help the district’s lobbyist, but the letter itself will have a more general tone.

Harding expressed appreciation for the research that was done to gather the statistics.

“Thank you for that. I know that was an undertaking, so I appreciate that,” Harding said.

Published January 03, 2024

How to dispose of a live Christmas tree

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Hillsborough and Pasco counties are offering a variety of ways to dispose of live Christmas trees, after celebrations are over.

(Courtesy of Hillsborough County)

Several options are available to Hillsborough County solid waste customers, including free curbside pickup, free disposal at county yard waste facilities, or recycling and reusing the tree in their own landscapes. 

For curbside pickup: Remove all decorations (lights and tinsel, too), cut tree trunk, limbs and branches into sections no longer than 4 feet by 6 inches wide in diameter, and place curbside on yard waste day.

To drop a tree off at either of the two county locations, remove decorations first. Skip the hassle of cutting your own tree into smaller pieces and drop it off at 13001 U.S. 41 in Gibsonton or 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave., in Tampa. Sites are open Monday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on holidays. Customers must show a valid photo ID and current property tax bill and should be prepared to unload the tree themselves. For information, call 813-272-5680.

And to repurpose your tree, use it in your yard to feed birds (hang suet or sliced fruit from the branches) or grind the tree to use for mulch.

For Pasco County, the Trees to Trails program is in effect until Jan. 13. Residents can drop off their tree, which will be chipped and used in Pasco County parks to mulch trails and planting beds. 

For information, call Wesley Chapel District Park at 813-345-3145, Veterans Memorial Park at 727-861-3033 or Parks Administration at 813-929-2760.

Published January 03, 2024