Zephyrhills/East Pasco News

‘Topping out’ at Dade City Hall

September 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Construction on the new government complex in Dade City is more than halfway complete.

To celebrate, workers took a short breather for a traditional “topping out” ceremony for the modern day replacement of the historic City Hall.

On Sept. 3, dozens of city employees, community leaders, architects from Wannemacher Jensen Architects and the construction team from Ajax Building Corp. celebrated the milestone.

Afterward, they enjoyed a luncheon at the site.

City employees and community leaders joined members of the Ajax Building Corp. for a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the construction site of the new Dade City government complex. Lon Neuman, left, director of operations at Ajax Building Corp.; Dade City Police Chief Ray Velboom; Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez; Dade City Mayor Billy Poe, Jr.; Lori Rice, business development manager for Ajax; Bill Byrne, president of Ajax; and, Mike Wilson, operations manager for Ajax. (Photos courtesy of Wannemacher Jensen Architects) — City employees and community leaders joined members of the Ajax Building Corp. for a ‘topping out’ ceremony at the construction site of the new Dade City government complex. Lon Neuman, left, director of operations at Ajax Building Corp.; Dade City Police Chief Ray Velboom; Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez; Dade City Mayor Billy Poe, Jr.; Lori Rice, business development manager for Ajax; Bill Byrne, president of Ajax; and, Mike Wilson, operations manager for Ajax.
(Photos courtesy of Wannemacher Jensen Architects)

Usually such ceremonies happen when the last steel beam is hoisted into place at the tallest point in the building. But “topping out” the new one-story City Hall called for something a bit different.

People were invited to sign their names on the unfinished lobby wall. Those signatures will vanish under the finishing touches to the interior walls.

“It’s like a time capsule element,” said Michael Wilson, operations project manager for Ajax Building Corp.

With the exterior work all but complete, the next phase of construction on the approximately 22,000-square-foot structure will be to install the mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems. Paint and interior trims will follow.

The project is slated for completion in early 2016. The busier than usual rainy season hasn’t been an issue in keeping to the schedule, Wilson said.

The design by Wannemacher Jensen Architects has two separate buildings linked by an entryway canopy and courtyard.

One building will house government offices in City Hall; the other will be headquarters for Dade City police.

Funding for the estimated $5.9 million project is from the city’s reserve funds and the Penny for Pasco program.

Rendering of new Dade City government complex.

In 2013, work crews tore down the historic City Hall, which started out as a 1920s hotel that never was completed. It became the hub of city government in the 1940s as part of a Depression-era work project.

While awaiting their new offices, city employees are working at a City Hall annex and the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad Depot on U.S. 98, at U.S. 301.

About 20 employees will move into the new City Hall, with about 25 police department employees settling into their new headquarters.

The move should be complete by Feb. 1, said Gordon Onderdonk, the city’s public works director.

The city’s police department will relocate from its current Pasco Avenue address to the new complex, which will have interview rooms, holding cells, a booking area, a special area for the K-9 unit and a conference.

No decision has been made on the future of the existing police station.

New and upgraded technology will be installed throughout the two buildings. And there will be a panoramic view of Meridian Avenue from the chamber of the City Commission.

Published September 16, 2015

Town hall touches on wide range of issues

September 2, 2015 By B.C. Manion

Residents turned out in droves to a town hall hosted by U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, State Sen. Wilton Simpson and State Rep. Danny Burgess.

People filled every seat of the Pasco County Commission’s chambers at the Historic Courthouse in Dade City.

The chambers at the Historic Courthouse in Dade City were packed, as people turned out to share their concerns with U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, State Sen. Wilton Simpson and State Rep. Danny Burgess. (Richard Riley/Photos) — The chambers at the Historic Courthouse in Dade City were packed, as people turned out to share their concerns with U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis, State Sen. Wilton Simpson and State Rep. Danny Burgess.
(Richard Riley/Photos)

They sat on extra chairs set up along the aisles. Some stood in the back. And, there were even people sitting in chairs on the dais that are normally reserved for county officials and Pasco County Commission members.

The speakers at the Aug. 25 session had plenty to say at the meeting, which lasted more than three hours.

In the education arena, lawmakers heard complaints about unfunded state mandates, excessive testing in schools and onerous requirements for operators of voluntary pre-kindergarten programs.

One speaker urged elected leaders to find a way to reopen Moore Mickens Educational Center, a school closed by Pasco County Schools.

Simpson said he is willing to work with the community, once it comes forward with a plan regarding the school.

Other speakers complained about the lack of services for veterans.

Bilirakis told the crowd that improving services for veterans is one of his top priorities.

He touched on the idea of creating a Veterans Village, similar to the Veterans Village of San Diego.

It would be have to be some sort of public-private partnership, Bilirakis said, and it would deliver a wide range of services to veterans.

The Veterans Village of San Diego provides services including housing, counseling, employment training and other services.

State Sen. Wilton Simpson, State Rep. Danny Burgess and U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis interact before a town hall session begins in Dade City. The meeting lasted more than three hours, and those turning out talked out myriad issues.

The issue of cyber security was on another speaker’s mind.

He urged Congress to address the gaping holes that put the nation at great risk.

Bilirakis said he has sat in on briefings and understands the gravity of the situation.

“This is a very, very serious issue,” Bilirakis said.

One speaker asked Bilirakis to respond to the nation’s soaring debt.

“An $18 trillion debt is inexcusable,” Bilirakis said. “We need to set priorities. We need a balanced budget amendment.”

Simpson noted that when he was elected three years ago, Florida had a debt of $3 billion. Now, the state has $3 billion in reserves, and that’s after cutting a billion dollars in taxes, he said.

Florida also is poised to grow at a faster rate than other places around the country, Simpson said, noting that it has invested in infrastructure.

The state’s ports, for instance, are preparing to help Florida become a major import-export hub, he said.

In the arena of education, Simpson said he favors spending more money on educating prekindergarten through fifth-grade students. He also wants to strengthen vocational training.

On some issues, Burgess, Simpson and Bilirakis invited speakers to get in touch with their office so they can delve more deeply into particular concerns.

Burgess told the crowd that his background as a city council member and mayor in Zephyrhills makes him fully aware of the issues facing local governments. In his new role, he attempted to secure funding for a storm water project in Dade City. The budget included the project, but Gov. Rick Scott vetoed it.

Burgess told the crowd that he, Simpson and Bilirakis want to be accessible and are willing to make inquiries with government agencies regarding issues of concern.

Along those lines, Bilirakis told those gathered that efforts are under way to obtain federal help for people whose properties have been damaged by recent flooding.

The governor has requested that President Barack Obama issue a federal disaster declaration for multiple counties in Florida, including Pasco, Pinellas and Hillsborough, Bilirakis said.

If approved, this measure will enable the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide financial assistance to the individuals whose homes have sustained serious flood damage, Bilirakis said.

Published September 2, 2015

Fish fry and Florida’s history mix on Sept. 11

September 2, 2015 By Michael Murillo

The Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, is situated on 16 acres and has an old schoolhouse, church and general store as part of its attractions.

Now, it would like more people to come and see what it has to offer.

Those Unscrupulous Sunspots will entertain the hungry crowd with live music at the museum. (Courtesy of Those Unscrupulous Sunspots) — Those Unscrupulous Sunspots will entertain the hungry crowd with live music at the museum.
(Courtesy of Those Unscrupulous Sunspots)

“One of the issues that we have here is that a lot of people don’t know about the museum,” said Brenda Minton, event coordinator for the museum. “It’s kind of like Dade City’s best kept secret.”

Minton hopes the secret will be out with the museum’s Old-Fashioned Family Style Fish Fry, which will take place Sept. 11 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m.

The Kiwanis Club of Dade City is co-sponsoring the event.

The fish fry replaces their Pioneer Days event in an effort to offer something new to the community. It includes live music by Those Unscrupulous Sunspots, a six-piece band that performs covers of rock and roll classics from The Beatles, Rolling Stones and Neil Young, as well as playing original tunes.

In addition to the fish, dinner includes items such as cheese grits, hushpuppies, cole slaw and baked beans. Food can be ordered to go, and is available by delivery to businesses that order 10 or more dinners during that time.

The museum hopes most people will choose to eat there and take a fresh look at the area, and the dozen or so buildings that have been collected over its history.

The museum had popular fish frys several years ago, and they hope its return will reacquaint people to their attraction. (Courtesy of the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village) — The museum had popular fish frys several years ago, and they hope its return will reacquaint people to their attraction.
(Courtesy of the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village)

The Pioneer Florida Museum began at the Pasco County Fairgrounds before moving to its current location more than 40 years ago. Many of the buildings were renovated and relocated to their new home, and they come from different parts of the state. A shoe repair shop from downtown Dade City shares the grounds with a steam engine from Trilby, and a Lacoochee school and general store. There’s also a cane syrup mill, a quilt building and a barn.

Those Unscrupulous Sunspots will be performing on the front porch of another structure, the Overstreet House, which is a two-story farm home made of pine.

The main museum features a sample bedroom, doctor’s office and dentist’s office. There are also authentic examples of clothes, tools, toys, pottery and other artifacts from Florida’s pioneer era that began in the 1800s.

Minton believes that people will be interested in returning once they see the history on display.

Some come back for more than a tour, she said. The Enterprise Church, built in 1878 and replaced in 1903, is still available for weddings.

In addition to the music, the museum will set up picnic tables and hold games during the event.

Visitors who stay to eat will enjoy free lemonade and iced tea as well.

The museum’s goal is to sell 500 tickets for the event, and Minton said feedback has been good so far.

“It’s kind of bringing the community together for a fun afternoon and also showing off the museum,” she said. “I think we’re going to have a nice crowd.”

Tickets for the fish fry are $8 and can be purchased at the museum, the Dade City Chamber of Commerce or by calling (352) 206-8889. For more information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Published September 2, 2015

Getting an early taste of the artistic life

September 2, 2015 By B.C. Manion

Patrons perusing the shelves of the children’s section at the Hugh Embry Branch Library got a bonus over the last several weeks.

But they’ve had to look up to see it.

Student artwork is displayed above the bookshelves in the Saint Anthony Art Show at the Hugh Embry Branch Library in Dade City. (Courtesy of LInda Whitman) — Student artwork is displayed above the bookshelves in the Saint Anthony Art Show at the Hugh Embry Branch Library in Dade City.
(Courtesy of LInda Whitman)

On the top ledge of the shelves, there’s an exhibit of artworks created by students from Saint Anthony Catholic School.

The works demonstrate the broad range of artistic instruction these young students experience under the guidance of Linda Whitman, the art teacher at Saint Anthony since 1987.

There’s a linoleum block piece featuring a blue cat, created by Effie Tillack, a fourth-grader at the time.

There are icons, by Aneesha Joshy and Gabriel Quinn, made through the technique of tooling metal.

Destiny Li, who was just in kindergarten, has two pieces on display. One is a painting and the other, a collage.

Other examples of interesting work include mixed media, yarn painting and colored pencil drawing.

The exhibit went up in August and is expected to come down around Sept. 10.

Aneesha Joshy tooled metal to create this icon image of Saint Peter. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Aneesha Joshy tooled metal to create this icon image of Saint Peter.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

“Miss (Linda) Whitman, she does this every year. This has been going on for about four years now, and every year, there is very impressive art,” said Mary Keesling, Librarian 1 at the Hugh Embry Branch Library.

“People have come in to visit,” Keesling added, noting she thinks most of those coming to see the exhibit are parents of the artists.

The display showcases Whitman’s effort to give her students a broad exposure to art.

“I try to give the kids a taste of everything,” she said. “So, that they’re aware of different styles and different artists.”

She also encourages her 218 students to explore their creative side and remain open to their artistic spirit.

“The younger they are, the more open-minded they are,” Whitman said. “They are absolutely open to anything and everything.”

Around third-grade, though, a lot of children lose their enthusiasm and begin to doubt their artistic abilities, she said.

At that point, Whitman said, “they’re beginning to say, ‘I can’t draw.’

“Usually by third grade, some adult has made the mistake of saying, ‘What is that?’

And that stymies them. That will discourage them,” the art teacher said.

Instead of asking what an artwork portrays, Whitman said it’s better to say, “Tell me about it.”

Emily Vizcarra created a collage of vases, include some real-life or lifelike ferns. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Emily Vizcarra created a collage of vases, include some real-life or lifelike ferns.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

Asking the student how he or she created a piece of art also helps to encourage the artist to stay interested in the creative process, she said.

Beyond learning how to work with various media, the students learn art history and about various styles of art.

Whitman said student works are exhibited each year at the library, at CenterState Bank and at the Pasco County Fair.

She chooses the pieces to display based on merit.

“I intentionally have their kids write their names on the back of their artwork, so I don’t know who it is. If I choose to show two of one student’s or three or one student’s in an art exhibit, then so be it.

“I had a principal years ago say, ‘Well, I noticed you had three pieces by this one little girl in the exhibit. If you limited her to one, then two other students could have shown. I said, ‘Yeah, but that’s like telling the fastest runner on the track team, ‘Can you slow down, and let somebody else win?’ ”

Staging an exhibit requires work, but it is worth it, Whitman said, because of the thrill it provides for the students who have their work on display.

“They enjoy exhibiting. They like the limelight,” she said.

That is, except perhaps for kindergartners.

Jose Trevino demonstrates his artistic skills through this colored pencil drawing. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo) — Jose Trevino demonstrates his artistic skills through this colored pencil drawing.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

“The kindergartners are funny. When I ask them, ‘Can I keep your artwork for an art show?’ (They respond) ‘Well, no.’

“They don’t like that idea,” she said, noting they want to take their work home and have it hung on their refrigerator door.

But, the teacher or an older brother or sister will talk to the child to assure them the work is just on loan, and the kindergartners typically change their minds.

Once a student has had a work on display, they will often ask Whitman if a work they’ve completed is good enough to exhibit.

The whole idea is to encourage children to develop and use their talents, said Sister Alice Ottapurackal, the school’s principal.

“It’s mainly to encourage children to do their best. We want to make sure that they know that we appreciate them, and to give them a chance to shine,” she said.

“They’re so excited when they see their work displayed,” she added.

“We try to embrace whatever talent God has given them, and to show that to others and to share with others.”

Plus, the principal noted, such displays reflect well on the school.

Published September 2, 2015

New Walk celebrates a new church home

August 26, 2015 By B.C. Manion

When New Walk Church began offering services in 2006, it was located at the YMCA building in Zephyrhills, and had about 120 regular attenders.

Now, the church has three locations, totaling roughly 2,000 members, and it is planning to host the grand opening for its new Zephyrhills home at an evening service on Aug. 29 and two morning services on Aug. 30.

Lead Pastor Gary Baldus believes that New Walk’s invitation that God desires people to make a spiritual reconnection has led to the church’s growth.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

The new Zephyrhills location is at 35008 State Road 54.

The church also has satellites in Dade City and Holiday.

New Walk aims to reach people who are looking for a spiritual home, according to Lead Pastor Gary Baldus.

“I think there’s a lot of people who have been involved in things in their life, and they’re like, ‘There’s no way God loves me now after what I’ve done,’ ” Baldus said.

New Walk tries to help those people understand that God does love them, he said.

“It’s like ‘Who left the relationship? You or God?’ ”

New Walk wants to “reach people who are far from God, but would like to get close and discover that relationship.

“From the time they get to the parking lot and through our service, we want them to know that God still loves them and wants that relationship with them,” Baldus said.

“We have a vision statement which is ‘Unleashing new purpose in every life through Jesus Christ,’ ” he added.

It’s a place designed to be inviting, for members and visitors, alike.

The church has attracted many families with children, and also many single adults, but there are also some older members, Baldus said.

Those driving by New Walk Church on State Road 54 may have wondered what was being built on that road. Now, they know. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos) — Those driving by New Walk Church on State Road 54 may have wondered what was being built on that road. Now, they know.

Its services feature contemporary music, with highly skilled musicians, the pastor said.

“It’s very lively. It’s all Jesus-based. It’s pretty much what you would hear on Christian radio,” he said.

Much of the new building is designed with children in mind.

The area has been themed out, by Wacky World, a company the church hired to do the décor.

There’s a check-in area, where parents can leave their children while they attend the worship service. That room has a seaside theme, with a model of a giant wave, complete with a surfboard.

“When this is fully running, we have a scent machine,” Baldus said, noting it smells like the coconut oil often used in suntan lotion.

Different rooms within the children’s area are designed to cater to different age groups. There’s a nursery area, a room for toddlers and other spaces for older kids.

The idea is to make church a place where kids want to come, to have fun and to learn about Jesus, Baldus said.

A look at some of the décor, which provides a lively environment for children attending worship services with their parents at New Walk Church.

There’s also a Hospitality Café, where worshippers can enjoy free doughnuts and coffee, or splurge on cappuccinos or slushies. It’s a place where worshippers can relax and spend time with each other, Baldus said.

The main worship hall can accommodate 850 people, which Baldus expects to be full at the services during the grand opening weekend.

The project cost $3.8 million for construction, not including taxes, fees or furnishings.

The new 39,000-square-foot church building sits on 6.5 acres. The site includes a large retention pond in the back and 300 parking spaces around the building, the pastor said.

Even with 300 spaces, parking could become an issue as the church grows, Baldus said.

A significant amount of space has been devoted to children at New Walk Church. The rooms are designed to cater to different age groups.

“One of the challenges on that is that we reach a lot of single people, which is wonderful, but they don’t bring two or three people,” he said.

The church is affiliated with the General Baptist denomination, but its members come from various backgrounds, and there’s no denominational bent, Baldus said.

When people arrive at New Walk, the primary goal is to make them feel welcome.

“Let’s take the barriers away, so they want to come in and hear what God would want for them in their life. And then we can let God do the changing,” Baldus said.

The message he seeks to deliver is: “God loves you and wants you to come back.”

He thinks that invitation for spiritual reconnection has resonated with many people, leading to New Walk’s growth.

“I think the biggest draw has been that this is a place that people could come into and hear the love of Jesus,” Baldus said.

Published August 26, 2015

Spare your wallet and bowl for free

August 12, 2015 By Michael Murillo

The great thing about On The Cheap is I get to tell you about a variety of fun things you can do without spending a lot of money. Maybe it’s catching a movie. Maybe it’s a trip to a zoo or aquarium. Maybe it’s watching a professional sports team.

Pin Chasers in Zephyrhills has nightly specials and is hosting ‘Bowl Fest’ later this month. That means plenty of cheap (and free) opportunities to bowl. (Photos courtesy of Pin Chasers in Zephyrhills) — Pin Chasers in Zephyrhills has nightly specials and is hosting ‘Bowl Fest’ later this month. That means plenty of cheap (and free) opportunities to bowl.
(Photos courtesy of Pin Chasers in Zephyrhills)

Or, maybe it’s bowling.

Wait.

Bowling?

Like “putting on different shoes and throwing a ball down a lane” bowling?

Yes, bowling.

Everyone’s gone bowling before, but maybe it’s been a while since you gave it a try.

So, whether you’re in a league or haven’t played it in years, you have a few chances to play some games at a big discount. And on some days, it’s absolutely free.

The venue is Pin Chasers, 6816 Gall Blvd., in Zephyrhills.

I don’t have to spend a lot of time describing a bowling alley, do I? It’s really big (32 lanes), it’s clean, and it has automated scoring. But I’d like to point out that it’s also indoors, which means you won’t be subjected to blazing hot temperatures or a sudden downpour while you play. There’s no chance of bowling getting rained out or ruining your clothes, and I consider that a pretty big advantage these days.

A typical game of bowling costs around $6 to $7 (shoe rental is free), and that’s not a bad deal.

You can bowl with friends, family or anyone who likes to throw a heavy ball and knock things down. And, on certain days, you can do it for free.

But this is On The Cheap, so we’re looking for bigger bargains. And we’ve found them this month during what they call “Bowl Fest.”

On Aug. 22, students in kindergarten through 12th grade can bowl absolutely free from 10 a.m. until noon. That’s two hours of games at no cost whatsoever. If a child hasn’t played before, the staff can help teach them. And they’ll even have face painting for the youngest players.

You don’t have to paint your face to bowl, of course. But it probably doesn’t hurt, either. Maybe the pins will get intimidated and fall down on their own.

Free bowling is a great way to have a fun morning with a child or grandchild, or for friends to get together over the summer.

But what about older players?

Well, on Aug. 19, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m., women can bowl for free. And it’s the guys’ turn on Aug. 27 during those same hours.

So if you want a night out with friends, while remaining friendly with your budget, keep those dates in mind. No face painting, but they’ll have snacks and beverages, too.

Those are great deals, and if you want to bowl at other times (or just want to play more), Pin Chasers has specials just about every night as well.

On Mondays, you can buy a $5 wristband and play for just $1 per game, with $1 drafts, soda and hot dogs. On Thursdays, they have unlimited bowling from 9 p.m. until closing for just $10, with drink specials as well. On Sunday nights, it’s the same deal, but it’s $9.33. On Tuesdays, unlimited bowling starts at 9:30 p.m., for $9.99 and includes free pizza. Then they have cyber bowling on the weekends and buy-one-get-one-free games starting Aug. 22 and running through Sept. 6. That’s a lot of bowling.

Oh, there’s one more: On Labor Day (Sept. 7), you can bowl from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m., for $10. That’s 12 hours of unlimited bowling. I admit that staying there the whole time might be a little much. Maybe you’d like to see your family and eat lunch that day. But it’s nice to know that you can play as many games as you want for one low price.

Whether you play every few weeks or haven’t been inside a bowling alley in years, the next few weeks are perfect for grabbing a ball (don’t worry, they have plenty) and having some fun.

They’re open every day, rain or shine. And in Florida, it’s probably rain and shine. So maybe it’s best to stay inside, and work on your strikes and spares instead.

For more information, call (813) 782-5511 or visit PinChasers.net.

Published August 12, 2015

Veggie Van to deliver fresh produce in East Pasco

July 22, 2015 By Kathy Steele

For many low-income families, putting fresh fruits and vegetables on a grocery shopping list is a luxury out of reach.

They live in what are known as food deserts, where the only choice for buying groceries is a corner store or a convenience shop.

The Veggie Van is a point of pride for Tom Looby, left, president of the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA; Kelley Parris, executive director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County; Ann Shafer, loan officer at Bank of America; Lakeisha Hood of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; and Michelle Maingot, chairwoman of the YMCA’s board of directors. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos) — The Veggie Van is a point of pride for Tom Looby, left, president of the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA; Kelley Parris, executive director of the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County; Ann Shafer, loan officer at Bank of America; Lakeisha Hood of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services; and Michelle Maingot, chairwoman of the YMCA’s board of directors.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

Fresh produce is either nonexistent or so costly families can’t afford it. Catching a public bus to a grocery store isn’t always a satisfactory answer.

“You can only carry so much on a bus,” said Mike McCollum, executive director of the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA in Tampa.

So, the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA came up with a solution – the Veggie Van.

The program operates on a two-week rotation, delivering seasonal produce to families in need. The refrigerated truck, loaded with fresh fruits and vegetables, will be parked at the Lacoochee Community Center in Stanley Park on Aug. 4 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Other participating communities are Sulphur Springs, Wimauma Village and Tampa Heights, in Hillsborough County. The Children’s Board of Hillsborough County, the Bank of America and the Joy McCann Foundation are among the sponsoring partners.

On July 10, McCollum and other dignitaries, including Tom Looby, president of the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA, officially rolled out the yellow and orange van.

The vehicle sparked interest from passersby while parked for a week in the lot across from the Central City YMCA on Palm Avenue in Tampa.

“It just looks cool,” said Looby. “We will go to (families) in this visually, appealingly colorful van. But instead of the ice cream truck, it’s the Veggie Van.”

A summer youth camp for children ages 5 and 6 hiked over from the Bob Gilbertson Central City YMCA in Tampa to get bags of vegetables to take home.

As many as 50 food deserts have been identified including the Lacoochee community, said Elizabeth Roman, the mobile food market director for the Tampa area YMCA.

In the future, more communities in Hillsborough and Pasco counties could become stops for the Veggie Van.

“There are many families not able to access fresh fruits and vegetables,” Roman said. “We’re trying to eliminate the gap, if we can.”

Children and families who qualify for free or reduced meals at schools automatically qualify and only need to sign up for the program. Families in Lacoochee can sign up at local Boys & Girls Clubs or on the day the van comes to the community center.

A nutritionist, with the local extension agency, will work with families on food preparation, tips for shopping, food safety, nutrition plans and the need for physical activity.

“We strongly believe the Veggie Van will change the face of hunger in the Tampa community,” said Jacqueline Hunter who will work with the Veggie Van program in Hillsborough. She works for Hillsborough County Extension.

In Lacoochee, an extension program, Family Nutrition Program of Pasco County, will partner with the Veggie Van. The county program has been providing nutritional and educational services at Lacoochee Elementary School for about eight years.

The first three years of the Veggie Van will cost about $200,000 from a combination of funds from the YMCA and grants from the Children’s Board of Hillsborough County and Joy McCann Foundation. In addition, Bartow Ford donated the van and CGM Services provided the van’s cooling system.

Representatives of Florida’s Department of Agriculture are serving as advisors for the mobile market.

The idea for Veggie Van had been percolating for more than a year. The agencies found common concern about giving families more access to healthy, nutritional food.

And, Looby said the Joy McCann Foundation already was supporting a food program in Lacoochee. The YMCA itself has ongoing programs in Pasco. “It made sense for everyone to make the connections,” he said.

Interested families can contact Elizabeth Roman at (813) 229-9622, ext. 1729, or email to ">.

Published July 22, 2015

Historian sheds light on German POWs in Dade City

July 22, 2015 By B.C. Manion

The recent death of Eva Martha (Goddard) Knapp has sparked memories of the work she did to trace the history of German prisoners of war who lived and worked in the Dade City area during World War II.

Knapp, who died on June 20, 2015 in St. Petersburg, was a noted historian in the Pasco County Historical Society.

This photo was taken during the 1995 dedication of a historic marker to record the fact that German prisoners of war lived in Dade City during World War II and served as laborers. They were paid the prevailing wages, but the U.S. government deducted money to cover expenses for housing and feeding them. (Courtesy of Fivay.org) — This photo was taken during the 1995 dedication of a historic marker to record the fact that German prisoners of war lived in Dade City during World War II and served as laborers. They were paid the prevailing wages, but the U.S. government deducted money to cover expenses for housing and feeding them.
(Courtesy of Fivay.org)

She was particularly known for the research she did about the German POW camps, including a camp housed in an area now known as Pyracantha/Naomi Jones Park.

Knapp donated many of her materials to the University of South Florida, according to local historians Madonna Wise and Eddie Herrmann, who put together some background information about Knapp, following her death, which they shared with The Laker/Lutz News.

According to their research, a biographical excerpt on Knapp in the USF collection details Knapp’s involvement in collecting information about the German POWs.

The USF excerpt says that during the 1991-1992 school year, Knapp was teaching English at Hernando High School in Brooksville, and her 10th-grade class read Betty Greene’s novel, “The Summer of My German Soldier.”

Eva Martha Knapp, former president of the Pasco Historical Society, did extensive work to trace the history of the German prisoners of war who lived in Dade City during World War II. (Courtesy of Madonna Wise) — Eva Martha Knapp, former president of the Pasco Historical Society, did extensive work to trace the history of the German prisoners of war who lived in Dade City during World War II.
(Courtesy of Madonna Wise)

After reading the book, Knapp’s students interviewed family members and acquaintances that were old enough to remember World War II to see if they knew if German prisoners of war had been held in Pasco County, the excerpt says.

During those interviews, they heard that some German prisoners had worked at the Pasco Packing Company, the excerpt adds.

So, two students visited the company and learned from company executives that German POWs indeed had worked there.

The class also was able to locate some of the men who had been prisoners in Florida camps, and who had remained in Florida after the war.

The class received a letter from a former prisoner, detailing some of his experiences.

Ludeke Herder, a prisoner who was a Protestant, shares his memories of one Christmas in a letter dated Jan. 9, 1992.

Because it was Christmas, the prisoners were allowed to go to a “Protestant-Lutheran Church in Tampa,” he writes.

“Our guards were inside the church too, without guns. After the worship, our guard told us to leave the church through the same door, like we came in, but the vicar told us to go through the door at the side of the church. Our guard was mad, but allowed us to take the other door,” he adds.

The story of the German prisoners of war who lived in Dade City is recorded on this historic marker. (Courtesy of Fivay.org) — The story of the German prisoners of war who lived in Dade City is recorded on this historic marker.
(Courtesy of Fivay.org)

As they came through a small door, he continues, “the people gave us cakes, candy and coffee and it was a wonderful Christmas day and I never can forget such a kind gesture.”

Letters such as this one are the types of items contained in the collection at USF, which resulted from the students’ and Knapp’s research efforts.

The archive also contains photocopies of material gathered by Knapp during her research, including copies of official documents from the National Archives, correspondence with former German prisoners of war, photocopies of Der P.O.W. Zeit-Spiegel (a publication) and other materials.

Knapp worked extensively with Herrmann to archive the information.

Herrmann shared some of his knowledge about the German prisoners during a recent interview.

The men lived in the Dade City camp, but went out to do jobs, Herrmann recalled.

“They went out every day. They rode a bus to go to work in Brooksville,” he said. They dug lime rock at a mine that was used in building construction.

“They worked in the orange groves,” Herrmann added. “They got to be friendly with people. They even worked in people’s yards.”

Additional details of the prisoners’ experiences in Dade City are contained on a historical marker Branch Camp No. 7, placed there in 1995 by the Pasco County Historical Preservation Committee.

The marker explains that the demands of World War II created a shortage of agricultural workers here at home.

To reduce that problem, the United States Army established about 500 prisoner-of-war camps to supply laborers.

Camp Blanding, near Starke, was headquarters for the 22 camps in Florida, with the Dade City camp being designated Branch Camp No. 7, according to the marker.

The Dade City camp began in March 1944 and housed about 250 men, many who had been involved with Rommel’s famed AfrikaKorps.

The camp was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. It had a three-tent mess hall, which was also used for church services, classes and movies.

It also had a canteen attached to a small day room; a larger day room with table tennis and a piano; sleeping quarters and latrines, according to the marker.

The prisoners handled a variety of jobs, according to the marker. They worked at the McDonald Mine in Brooksville, where they made limestone bricks for Pasco Packing Building No. 7, and at Cummer Sons Cypress Mill in Lacoochee.

The prisoners’ spiritual needs were attended to by a minister of the Zion Lutheran Church of Tampa and by priests from nearby Saint Leo Abbey.

Knapp developed lasting friendships with the prisoners and even traveled to Germany to visit them.

She was long-time member of the Pasco Historical Society, where she served as president of the society in 2002.

She presented to the society in May of 1995 on her research about the prisoner of war camp and Pasco Packing.

She also participated as a costumed docent, demonstrating, and teaching spinning and weaving skills at the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village.

She is survived by two sisters, Margaret Allen and Jane McDavitt; three children, Diana Neff, Roberta Stalvey and Howard Knapp; eleven grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

Memorial donations may be made to the Pasco Historical Society or the Pioneer Florida Museum & Village.

More information is available at EastPascoHistoricalSociety.com/pascomurals.html or WarLinks.com/memories/knapp.

Published July 22, 2015

Zephyrhills is crowing about clean neighborhoods

July 15, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Rocky Rooster isn’t out to ruffle anyone’s feathers. He just wants to crow about strutting through clean neighborhoods in Zephyrhills.

On July 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Rocky Rooster will be the mascot and booster of neighborhood pride at the first city-sponsored neighborhood cleanup day.

“We’re really trying to get the word out,” said Gail Hamilton, director of the city’s Community Redevelopment Area.

Rocky Rooster wants to know if you’ve ‘Got Trash?’ (Courtesy of City of Zephyrhills) — Rocky Rooster wants to know if you’ve ‘Got Trash?’
(Courtesy of City of Zephyrhills)

The focus area for the cleanup is between Seventh Street and 11th Street, and 11th Street and Sixth Avenue, near downtown.

Fliers are being mailed to property owners. Code enforcement officers are personally delivering fliers to residents living within the cleanup’s focus area.

The campaign slogan is “Make our city something to crow about.”

The program emerged after City Manager Steve Spina asked city department heads to discuss how to improve code enforcement.

Organizers want to convey the message that the city and residents can work together to clean up the neighborhoods.

“We just thought some people are overwhelmed and don’t have vehicles to haul junk to the landfill,” said Hamilton. “It’s like a carrot instead of a stick. We’re really trying to rid the focus area of detrimental items that have accumulated over the year.”

Still, there could be consequences for residents who opt out of the cleanup.

“If they don’t use our services, code enforcement will come behind and start issuing citations,” Hamilton said.

On cleanup day, dumpsters will be placed at Eighth Street and Eighth Avenue. City crews will clean up rights-of-way and alleys. Residents will be asked to haul trash and junk to the curb for pickup. Volunteers from the city will pitch in when needed.

Hamilton noted that the area has some elderly residents who may not be physically able to do the clean up work.

No hazardous waste, such as paint and chemicals, will be accepted.

City officials hope residents will join the cleanup and have fun at the same time.

They’ve taken a light-hearted approach with Rocky Rooster — a nod to the chickens and roosters seen frequently roaming the neighborhood.

“You like the chickens, or you hate them,” Hamilton said. “We decided to take a negative and make it fun.”

Residents who participate in the cleanup can enjoy a community block party afterward, with hot dogs and drinks. They also can chat with the city’s department heads, including Hamilton and Spina.

Because this is the first time the city has done this, officials don’t know how many residents will participate or how much the program will cost the city.

Once that is determined, plans are to develop a budget and schedule a second cleanup in another neighborhood.

Eventually the city hopes to cover all neighborhoods within the 500 acres of the redevelopment area.

“We’ll keep working at it until we get it done,” Hamilton said.

Published July 15, 2015

Study focuses on marketing property near Zephyrhills airport

July 1, 2015 By Kathy Steele

Duke Energy recently completed a site evaluation and marketing report on more than 440 acres next to the Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.

The property, according to the report, can be made site-ready for aerospace manufacturing, light industrial and assembly companies, and the plastics industry.

“We want to help you, to encourage you, as you market the Zephyrhills airport’s industrial area,” said Beth Land, a consultant with McCallum Sweeney, a national firm that partners with the Duke Energy Site Readiness program.

The engineering firm, HRP Associates, also participated in the site’s analysis.

The site-readiness program began in 2005 for the purpose of identifying and improving industrial sites that can attract investments and jobs in communities within Duke Energy’s service region. In the past decade, 155 site readiness projects have been completed, mostly within Southeastern states.

Work on the Zephyrhills’ project began several months ago. Two other sites in Florida – the Deltona Commerce Park in Volusia County and Florida Energy and Aerospace Training (FEAT) Park – were evaluated in 2013.

The report was presented to a joint workshop of the Zephyrhills City Council and the Pasco County Commission on June 22, prior to the city council’s monthly meeting. There was no discussion from council or commission members afterward.

One of the initial steps recommended by Duke Energy is an environmental assessment of the industrial site. Pasco County might be able to use a portion of a $400,000 federal grant to complete the task, if property owners give permission. The grant was awarded recently to help Pasco County build an inventory of brownfield sites. An update is expected by October.

The term “brownfield site” generally refers to the reuse, expansion or redevelopment of property, which may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminant, according to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

The site readiness report for the Zephyrhills location provided a detailed look at the area’s prospects for future development, its strengths and weaknesses, and recommendations to boost its attractiveness to investors.

The team of evaluators found the site suitable for one or two large facilities built on site or a cluster of smaller facilities with multiple users.

“We’ve been very excited about the whole process,” said John Walsh, vice president of the Pasco Economic Development Council. “It’s an exciting opportunity to promote Zephyrhills and show the rest of the world we’re ready to bring investment opportunities and get some jobs here.”

As laid out by Land and Mark Sweeney, one of the owners of McCallum Sweeney, the path to certifying a site as market-ready takes commitment, time and resources.

“It can be very demanding at times,” said Sweeney.

But the rewards, as touted in the report, can be significant.

Among success stories for Duke Energy’s program is Severcorr Steel, which invested about $800 million in a facility in Columbus, Mississippi, and created 450 jobs. Among McCallum Sweeney’s clients are Hertz, Northrup Grumman, Nordex, Boeing and Alenia Aeronautics.

The key is to understand that economic development is a business with the community as the product being sold. “Everything about your community may be a factor they (investors) are considering in whether they want to locate in your community,” Sweeney said.

Among a list of considerations would be the site itself, the infrastructure including utilities, the labor force and quality of life factors.

There are issues with the site that should be addressed prior to marketing the site, Land said.

The property has three owners, 4 Rail LLC, Sysco Corporation and 5L Properties LLC. The portion owned by 5L Properties is zoned agricultural, and Duke Energy recommends either rezoning it as industrial or at least creating a timeline for completing the task.

There is access to the property from Chancey Road, Sixth Avenue and State Road 54, but it also is 13 miles from Interstate 75 and 20 miles from Interstate 4. An investor would want to know what routes are available to connect to interstate highways.

Duke Energy also recommends building a rail spur onto the property off the CSX rail line adjacent to the site’s western border. No cost estimate was provided.

Construction of a new wastewater line and lift station is needed, according to the report, at an estimated cost of about $1.7 million and a timeline of up to a year for completion.

The power company also recommends creation of a master plan for how to develop the site.

“This is a great spot. Our key to success is having pads ready,” said Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. There is a lot of opportunity here.”

Published July 1, 2015