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Cross Creek Boulevard

Study continues on Wesley Chapel congestion

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The Metropolitan Planning Organization heard a report about the Wesley Chapel Roadway Connection project — along with pros and cons on various aspects of potential roadway connections during the board’s Dec. 13 meeting.

Some residents worry about safety issues near schools because of traffic congestion on Mansfield Boulevard. (File)

The presentation was for information only, with no action taken by the board.

Meghan McKinney, of the AECOM organization, has been collaborating with the MPO to conduct studies on the pros and cons of potential connections.

The project is focused on three potential connections:

  • Mansfield Boulevard and Kinnan Street
  • Meadow Pointe Boulevard and Meadow Pointe Boulevard Extension
  • Wyndfields Boulevard and Wyndfields Boulevard Extension

Public workshops have been held, as part of the study, in both April 2017 and May 2018.

“The reasons we wanted to do this study is we wanted to get public input, to hear if views have changed,” McKinney said.

In general, it’s a consensus in the community that the area’s roads can’t handle the current traffic demands, and there are especially concerns about safety near schools, she said.

Of all three potential connections, the most controversial involves a possible link between Mansfield Boulevard and Kinnan Street.

In a 2017 survey, 36 people said they favored the connection, while 37 people were opposed.

Several alternatives are being considered, McKinney said.

  • No Build Alternative: Would have no connections for public use but only provide a gate for emergency vehicles, and would make accommodations for cyclists and pedestrians
  • Alternative 1: Would focus on connecting Mansfield Boulevard and Kinnan Street
  • Alternative 2: Would focus on the Mansfield Boulevard/Kinnan Street and Meadow Pointe Boulevard Extension
  • Alternative 3: Meadow Pointe Boulevard Extension
  • Alternative 4: Mansfield Boulevard/Kinnan Street, Meadow Pointe Boulevard and Wyndfields Boulevard Extension

McKinney also told board members that regardless of which alternative is selected, the area’s traffic projections for 2040 reveals significant traffic increases.

“Basically you have an area where just by connecting the road, you’re not necessarily adding more people to the area,” she reasoned. “You’re just shifting the routes they may use.”

However, the projection also showed that the No Build Alternative would have its greatest increase near Beardsley Drive and Mansfield Boulevard.

The alternative’s biggest decrease in traffic would occur on Bruce B. Downs Boulevard between County Line Road and Cross Creek Boulevard, she said.

Aside from the road connection proposed, McKinney also addressed several planned improvements, including additional traffic lights and turning lanes.

One plan addresses concerns about traffic near schools on Mansfield Boulevard.

The bus drop-off and pick-up area near Dr. John Long Middle School contributes to the heavy congestion on the road, she said.

She suggested relocating the bus area from Wiregrass School Road onto Mansfield Boulevard, to enable a more steady flow of traffic.

A new crosswalk on the north side of Wiregrass School Road already is funded and underway, she said.

Another proposal calls for adding lanes at all four stops at the intersection of State Road 56 with Mansfield Boulevard, Meadow Pointe Boulevard and Wyndfields Boulevard.

Any road expansions on State Road 56 would be independent projects from the three proposed roadway connections, she said.

Published December 26, 2018

New connection being eyed between Mansfield and Kinnan

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Pasco County officials aren’t taking a position as yet on tearing away barricades, and connecting Kinnan Street and Mansfield Boulevard.

Hillsborough County officials, however, are budgeting $250,000 to get the job done.

Some residents worry about safety issues for schools if Kinnan Street, in Hillsborough County, and Mansfield Boulevard, in Pasco County, are linked. (File)

Hillsborough’s budget decision won’t influence Pasco’s decision, according to Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore.

Pasco wants to know the results of a study that it funded to evaluate the pros and cons of three road projects to extend or open roadways that dead-end at the border between the two counties.

The results of that study, known as the Wesley Chapel Roadway Connection Study, are expected in January.

“We’re evaluating to make sure we look at these very, very carefully,” Moore said. “What are the benefits for Pasco County residents?”

Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan, who asked for the funds to be included in Hillsborough’s budget, couldn’t be reached for comment.

One project under review would link Kinnan Street, in Hillsborough County, with Mansfield Boulevard, in Pasco County.

Other choices would be extensions to Wyndfields and Meadow Pointe boulevards that would link with existing and future roads in the K-Bar ranch development in Hillsborough County.

Barricades are placed at the dead-end where Kinnan Street and Mansfield Boulevard meet. A study could determine whether the roads are removed and the roads linked.

The matter of Kinnan and Mansfield has long divided the two counties, and the city of Tampa. The roads are divided by about 60 feet of vacant land, that frequently attract illegal dumping.

A forum in April drew about 100 people to discuss ways to improve traffic flow north and south across the borders.

There appears to be a general consensus that more connections are needed. But, there are differing views over where to build those connections. The potential Kinnan-Mansfield connection is especially contentious.

Mansfield is located off State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, just beyond The Shops at Wiregrass.

Many residents in the Meadow Pointe community object to the extension, contending that Kinnan’s two-lane design isn’t compatible with Mansfield’s four lanes.

Widening Kinnan also is problematic because there in no available land, they say.

Residents also cite safety concerns due to the location of three public schools, and Pasco-Hernando State College, along the route.

Moore said the safety issue is being examined.

The road connection study, which had been due in November, was pushed to January to include traffic data from a full school semester.

Hillsborough residents, primarily New Tampa, are pushing for more north-south connections.

Driving in the area now can mean navigating a circuitous route along County Line Road, Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, Cross Creek Boulevard and Morris Bridge Road.

The lack of connections means it can take twice as long to make trips to shopping centers, restaurants and other Wesley Chapel destinations, those favoring more connections say.

The lack of connections also has negative impacts on Hillsborough businesses, they add.

Published December 6, 2017

Check out information, and fun, at local libraries

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A new year always offers a fresh chance to become more disciplined, learn new things, explore new hobbies and have more fun.

All that, and more, awaits visitors to local libraries.

One of the creatures that Stacy Dunn, an animal educator from Pinellas County Reptiles, brought to a show at New River Branch Library last June. She had a crowd of about 90 people hanging on her every word during the reptile show.
(File)

Besides a vast collection of books, CDs, DVDs and digital offerings, libraries host scores of events every month.

So, depending on your interests or your needs, you can often find just what you’re seeking at the library — for free.

And, if not at your local library, chances are you can find it at a library in a nearby community.

So, whether it’s learning more about Medicare, camellias, cooking or crafts — there are libraries in northern Hillsborough County, and east and central Pasco County, offering classes or events on topics like these and more.

Maybe you’re a gamer, or a movie buff. Libraries have free game nights and free movies, too.

A photo of 2nd Lt. Phil Rasmussen shows the airplane pilot in his pajamas with a pistol strapped around his waist. Rasmussen shot down a Japanese Zero during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

You can be a hands-on type, or a listener; someone brand new to a pursuit, or someone who knows what’s what. Regardless of your personality type or interests, you likely can locate a library that is offering what you’re hoping to find.

Here’s a look at just a few of the selections available at your local libraries through the end of January.

For future months, visit HCPLC.org to find out more of what’s happening in Hillsborough County libraries or PascoLibraries.org to find out about more offerings in Pasco County libraries.

What’s happening in northern Hillsborough County libraries

Austin Davis Public Library, 17808 Wayne Road in Odessa
Jan. 18, 1:15 p.m.: Wee Artists: Arts and crafts for preschoolers and their caregivers.

Jan. 24, 1:15 p.m.: Motion Commotion: This 30-minute program incorporates music, literacy and fitness for the whole family. Recommended for children ages 2 to 5.

Jan. 30, 6:30 p.m.: Adult Tech Bytes: Did you get a new electronic device over the holidays? Discover the library’s large selection of e-books, audiobooks and more. Upload free apps from the library. Those attending must have a working email address and wireless capabilities on their devices.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa
Jan. 13, 4 p.m.: Knitting for beginners
Jan. 14, 10:15 a.m.: English practice at Conversation Corner
Jan. 14, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Printing
Jan. 21, 2 p.m.: Introduction to 3D Modeling with Tinker CAD
Jan. 25, 4 p.m.: Art after school
Jan. 28, 2 p.m.:3D Scanning with 123D Catch
Jan. 31, 4:30 p.m.: Storytelling workshop

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road
Jan. 17, 4 p.m.: E-books for Tablets and Smartphones

Jan. 28, 3 p.m.: Super Science: Pirate Polly and her parrot, Crackers, will lead a pirate-themed program featuring science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Recommended for children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their families.

New Tampa Branch Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa
Jan. 12, 3 p.m.: How to Write a Resume

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Yoga for Well-Being

Jan. 17, 10 a.m.: Do you love to knit or crochet? Bring a project, and meet new people in this sit and stitch program. Beginners welcome. Bring your own supplies.

Jan. 17, 3 p.m.: Pig Out on Reading: Daisy the pig, along with Farmer and Mrs. Minor, will visit the library with stories about the pampered swine’s life. For ages 2 to 6.

Jan. 24, 3 p.m.: Intro to Cybersecurity: A beginner’s guide

What’s happening at East and Central Pasco County libraries

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City
Jan. 13 and Jan. 14, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.: Friends of Hugh Embry Used Book Sale

Jan. 18, 1:30 p.m.: Learn how to become a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer

Jan. 18, 6:30 p.m.: Astronomer Ken Manning presents “When Celestial Bodies Collide: Eclipses & Other Phenomenon”

Jan. 24, 2 p.m.: In honor of Holocaust Remembrance Day, Roslyn Franken, author of “Meant to Be: A True Story of Might, Miracles and Triumph of the Human Spirit,” will present an inspirational program based on her book.

Jan. 26, 4 p.m.: Coder DoJo Jr.: For grades six through 12. Javascript and more coding club. Bring your email address and password.

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
Jan. 14, 2 to 4 p.m.: An introduction to tools for junior woodworkers, ages 9 through 15

Jan. 21, 10 a.m.: Turning 65: Medicare assistance: The purpose of the program is to educate elders regarding Medicare insurance.

Jan. 28, 10 a.m.: Sylvia’s Kitchen: Participants will make chocolate-covered creations, ages 13 and up.

Jan. 28, 2 p.m.: Pre-teen jewelry: Making Pop Tab People, ages 9 through 15

New River Branch, 34043 State Road 54, Zephyrhills
Jan. 17, 2 p.m.: Learn about camellias from a master gardener
Jan. 19, 11 a.m.: Medicare 101: Get answers to your Medicare enrollment questions.
Jan. 19, 6:30 p.m.: Want to learn about gardening? Attend the community garden meeting.
Jan. 21, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.: After-hours community gaming night. Participants will play a wide array of board games, including such classics as Monopoly and Scrabble.

Zephyrhills Public Library, 5347 Eighth St., Zephyrhills
Jan. 12: 9:45 a.m.: Career Source Mobile One: Job Search and Career Assistance: Job seekers will find help in searching for work, writing and printing resumes, and finding out about resources that can help them in their quest for employment.

Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Lawyer in the library: Attorney Bret Galbraith will field questions on small business issues.

Jan. 18, 1 p.m.: AARP Seminar: Fraud Prevention: Learn how to protect yourself from ID theft and to protect yourself from scams.

Jan. 25, 11:30 a.m.: Cookbook Book Club: If you love to eat, love to learn new recipes and enjoy meeting new people, this club is for you.

Jan. 28, 9:30 a.m.: I Quit — Smoking Cessation. Learn strategies for quitting all forms of tobacco in a friendly and supportive setting.

Published January 11, 2017

A new fire station is coming to New Tampa

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Residents of New Tampa will get a new fire station in 2017, amid a boom in development and population growth.

Other proposed capital improvement projects include upgrading playground equipment at New Tampa Recreation Center and installing CCTV cameras along Cross Creek Boulevard to help regulate traffic signals and ease congestion.

“The growth here has been tremendous,” said Tampa City Councilwoman Lisa Montelione. “Having the fire station will bring comfort to a lot of people that they will have a rescue unit nearby.”

The city paid about $1.3 million in 2008 for 2.2 acres of land at County Line Road and Trout Creek Drive anticipating construction on Fire Station No. 23.

But, budget cutbacks during the recession delayed several construction projects citywide.

The station, at 20777 Trout Creek Drive, will cost about $4.7 million. A construction schedule is not yet available.

Another proposed fire station for New Tampa isn’t included in the 2017 budget, but does have design funds for 2019.

Fire Station No. 24 in the K-Bar Ranch area, off Morris Bridge Road, will be built “as growth continues to occur,” according to Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, who presented a nearly $906 million budget to the Tampa City Council in July.

Council members approved the budget on Sept. 21. The fiscal year begins Oct. 1.

About 2 acres within a proposed 54-acre park in the K-Bar Ranch development are planned for Fire Station No. 24.

Montelione worked with M/I Homes, and Hillsborough County’s parks and recreation department, to secure the land.

A mix-up between Pasco and Hillsborough County dispatchers about a 911 call in 2015 drew attention to the need for a station serving New Tampa’s K-Bar Ranch area.

Hillsborough will develop the park, while the City of Tampa will build the fire station, Montelione said.

Upgrades to playground equipment at New Tampa’s recreation complex also won approval in the final budget. However, area residents still are waiting for an expansion of the existing gymnasium, which has earned a reputation for its high quality, competitive gymnastics program.

At least twice in the past five years, funds were withheld, including last year. “I was very upset,” said Montelione.

Instead, the budget re-routed capital improvement dollars to other projects, such as the recently completed restoration of the historical Cuscaden swimming pool in V.M. Ybor.

Another disappointment this year was lack of funding for New Tampa Nature Park, off Donna Michelle Parkway. More than five years ago, the park’s design included water fountains, restrooms and shaded hospitality areas.

“There’s no funds to service this park,” said Montelione during a public hearing on the budget. “It’s not even on anybody’s radar.”

Montelione lobbied for the park, as well as additional funds overall for Tampa Fire Rescue for equipment and training.

Published September 28, 2016

Having fun, and learning, at the library

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There’s more than just books to check out

It won’t be long before school bells ring in a new year, but before they do, there’s still ample opportunity to have fun at local libraries during summer break.

Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

There also are plenty of ways — besides books — to learn at local libraries.

For instance, people who wanted to learn more about the work that police officers do had a chance to do that on June 22 when Gio Marcacci, a patrol officer from the Zephyrhills Police Department, dropped by the Zephyrhills Public Library to talk about his job.

Police officers do more than arrest criminals. They’re often involved in community events, too. In fact, Marcacci saved a child from choking during the Zephyrhills’ Founders Day Parade.

During his visit to the library at 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, the police officer showed parents and children his handgun, flashlight and Taser, and gave them a chance to check out his patrol car, while explaining the various features.

From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.
From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.

Another summer break may be nearly over, but there’s still fun to be had at various local libraries. Of course, the fun doesn’t stop when school resumes. Libraries always have interesting offerings for their patrons. Check out the websites for the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC.org) and the Pasco County Library Cooperative (PascoLibraries.org), and search for events, to get a better idea of what’s available. There are programs for people of all ages and interests.

Meanwhile, here’s a sampling of some coming events:

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 34639

  • Join us to build some awesome projects with our new LEGO kits. For youths age 9 to 15. Call (813) 920-1214 to register. July 30, 10 a.m. to noon.

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 33523

  • Free food, Pictionary and Monopoly. For youths in grades eight through 12. July 27, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 Austin Davis Library, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa, 33556

  • Calling all pirates and princesses: Journey with us through games and crafts as we discover all things needed in our castle. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. July 26, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Leah’s Cartooning: Learn how to draw and color cartoons with local artist Leah Lopez. The library supplies the materials. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by the Friends of the Austin Davis Library). July 28, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa, 33618

  • Pilot a quadcopter: For ages 8 and older. Must register in person, one hour prior to event. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 26, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Fritzy Brothers One-Man Circus: Be entertained by juggling, unicycling and other circus activities. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 29, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa, 33647

  • Wonders of Nature: See the free-flying behaviors of raptors and parrots and learn about conservation. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the New Tampa Regional Library) July 28, 11 a.m. to noon; and, also from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. the same day.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz, 33548

  • Suds It Up: Learn how to make your own soap by choosing a mold that suits your style and adding your own fragrance and color. For youths in grades six through 12. (Funded by Friends of The Lutz Branch Library) July 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Published July 20, 2016

Walking soccer league begins in New Tampa

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Colin Eke was fed up with playing soccer.

The 60-year-old was tired of the nagging injuries and the over-aggressiveness of “younger lads” he regularly played against.

After undergoing several operations — including Achilles and knee surgeries, plus a hip replacement — Eke decided about four years ago that it was best to stop playing the game he still loves.

“I hung my boots up,” said Eke, a native of Ipswich, England. “I was really wearing myself out.”

Colin Eke, center, has started an ages 50-and-over walking soccer league in New Tampa. The league begins play on July 3 at Benito Middle School. Eke is flanked by Daniel Coimbra and Samantha Buterbaugh — winners of the New APSL’s Golden Boot for scoring the most goals during the season. (Courtesy of Colin Eke)
Colin Eke, center, has started an ages 50-and-over walking soccer league in New Tampa. The league begins play on July 3 at Benito Middle School. Eke is flanked by Daniel Coimbra and Samantha Buterbaugh — winners of the New APSL’s Golden Boot for scoring the most goals during the season.
(Courtesy of Colin Eke)

After a few idle years, Eke is planning to play the sport again, albeit in a fashion that’s more accommodating to his age, and his knees.

As the league director of the New APSL (Adult Premier Soccer League) in New Tampa and Dade City, Eke is forming an Over 50s Walking Soccer League that begins play on July 3. Games will be played each week on the fields of Benito Middle School, 10101 Cross Creek Blvd., in Tampa. An introductory practice session will be held on June 26.

Described as “the fastest growing sport in the United Kingdom,” walking soccer is completely non-contact.

Many of the rules are different than traditional soccer.

For instance, there’s no running or jumping, no off-sides, no throw-ins, no entering penalty areas and no slide tackling.

As opposed to 11 versus 11, each walking soccer squad can only have six players on the field at any given time.

Considering the reduced numbers, the field (50 by 25 meters) and goalposts are also smaller than conventional soccer.

The sport (walking soccer) is growing very quickly, and I thought this could be a good chance to try something locally in Tampa,” said Eke, who started organizing various New APSL soccer leagues in 2012. “It tries to avoid injuries that can be caused through muscle strain, hamstring problems, back problems, ankle twisting and all those other things that happen when you’re over the age of 50.”

To further reduce the risk of injuries, there’s a penalty box, or “sin bin” for those that get hotheaded or try to bend the rules of the game, which last an hour, consisting of two 30-minute halves.

Eke hopes the variations to the world’s most popular sport will reignite the passion of the game for older players “without having to go to work on crutches.”

The league director said men and women of all skill levels are welcome, and he fully expects to have some people sign up that haven’t played the game in decades.

“We just do it for the fun and enjoyment of it,” he said. “That’s purely what the game is all about — some people are playing in their 90s in the U.K., which is quite incredible.”

Eke hopes to have at least four teams in place by June 26, with an eventual goal of 12 teams. To reach that mark, registration will remain open throughout the nine-week season for additional teams and individual players.

“If we get one person who loves it, he or she will tell their friends — that’s how we’ve grown to now,” he said.

In addition to a little competition and exercise for middle-aged and older folks, Eke said walking soccer will also serve as a bridge to meet others.

“It’s a lot of fun for us to meet new people and introduce it to so many that haven’t played the game for a long time,” he said. “They play together and make friends; it’s a social event where everyone shows up, and has a laugh and a joke, and goes home hopefully uninjured ready to play another game.”

Individuals can register for $45. A team (nine players) can register $400.

For more information on the league, visit NewAPSL.com, or call Colin Eke at (813) 610-2278.

Published June 22, 2016

Hillsborough libraries offer summer fun

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Families looking for ways to help occupy their children during the summer may want to check out the events offered through Hillsborough County’s public libraries in north Hillsborough County.

Some events scheduled in coming weeks include puppet shows, art programs and robotics.

Spectators of ‘Wild Florida, Alive!’ can explore the wild side of Florida and learn about animals that make the state so unique. This is just one program being offered for free through the Lutz Branch Library and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library this month. (Courtesy of Creative Arts Theatre, of the City of Tampa)
Spectators of ‘Wild Florida, Alive!’ can explore the wild side of Florida and learn about animals that make the state so unique. This is just one program being offered for free through the Lutz Branch Library and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library this month.
(Courtesy of Creative Arts Theatre, of the City of Tampa)

One coming attraction, offered through the Lutz Branch Library, is “Wild Florida, Alive,” a show that will be presented by the Creative Arts Theatre of the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.

The presentation explores the wild side of Florida and helps spectators discover the animals that make the state unique.

It’s an environmental adventure, highlighting Florida’s endangered species through live theater, shadow puppetry, and music.

The program is geared toward those around age 5 and older. It will be offered at the Lutz Community Center, which is next to the library, on June 14 at 11 a.m., and again at 2 p.m. It lasts 30 to 45 minutes.

Meg Heimstead, supervisor for the Creative Arts Theatre and ArtReach, said she enjoys watching children’s reactions to the shows.

“It’s such a joyous experience, when a child sees a puppet come to life and that puppet interacts with them,” Heimstead said.

The performers aim to encourage children to read, she said, noting the presentations are based on, or inspired by, literary sources.

Another show being presented through the Lutz Branch Library features dogs and comedy.

“The Tricky Dogs Show” will be presented June 28 from 2 p.m. to 3.p.m.

Like the puppet show, this show, which features a circus-style dog comedy act, will be at the Lutz Community Center, 98 First Ave. N.W.

The Lutz Branch Library, which hosts a number of other special events every month, is at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz.

Upcoming events at other area libraries are:

At the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa:

  • “Robotix Blox,” June 14 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Kids will use Lego Mindstorms, and those taking part will work together on robot building and coding. Recommended for those ages 8 and older. The program is limited to 20 participants. Those wanting to join in must register no earlier than one hour before the program begins.

  • “Art Over Summer,” June 21 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This program encourages children between kindergarten and fifth grade to express themselves through art. They’ll be making items to take home.

  • “Three Wishes on a Magic Fish,” June 22 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre will tell a story about a fisherman, a magic fish and three wishes. It is geared for kindergarten through fifth-graders.

  • “Wild Florida, Alive,” June 25 from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn about Florida’s unique wild life through live theater, shadow puppetry and masks. For those age 5 and older.

At the New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., in Tampa:

  • “Lost World Reptiles,” June 16, 11 a.m. to noon

In this program, for kindergarten through fifth-graders, Gino Sassani presents live snakes and reptiles in an educational program about the slithery creatures.

  • “Books We Love to Sing,” June 30 from 11 a.m. to noon; and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Christine VanHorn will lead an interactive musical experience, bringing classic children’s books and songs to life. For kindergarten through fifth-graders.

For more information, visit HCPLC.org, and click on the Events & Classes tab, and then the By Branch tab.

Published June 1, 2016

This coffee shop serves more than coffee

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The coffee shop at Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch calls itself a Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper, but its customers say the foods this shop offers go far beyond those basic spices.

Tawnika Green, a 20-year-old full-time student at the Porter Campus, set to graduate May 6, said she has enjoyed the convenience of being able to grab a meal on campus.

Kelly Ramos, playing the role of Pepper, and Ghada Jadallah, chef for Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper, celebrate at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch last month. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
Kelly Ramos, playing the role of Pepper, and Ghada Jadallah, chef for Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper, celebrate at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch last month.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

She had two classes on campus, so she didn’t want to leave to go get something to eat, because she would miss her other class.

The young woman, who plans to pursue a career in nursing, gave high marks to the coffee shop’s mac ‘n cheese.

Desiree Harding, who works at the campus, said she routinely gets breakfast at the coffee shop.

“Oh, my gosh, the food is delicious,” Harding said.

Biko Claxton, who works as a trainer, said the menu has plenty of healthy options.

“How many trainers do you know that send people to a restaurant?” Claxon asked.

Stan Giannet, provost of the Porter Campus, said the coffee shop opened earlier this year and has been a welcome addition.

“We’ve received very positive feedback from students, staff and faculty,” Giannet said. “It’s going very well. They have a good variety of healthy, fresh meals for students.

“We’re happy to have them on our campus,” Giannet said.

Chef Ghada Jadallah is delighted to offer her company’s foods at the Porter Campus.

“It’s an amazing experience,” she said. “It seems like this is the nicest thing that’s ever happened to us.”

She and her husband, Lutfi, own Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper, which has its main location at 10353 Cross Creek Blvd., in New Tampa.

Their son, Sami, manages the coffee shop at the college, and their daughter, Elyanna, is the head baker at the company’s main location. Kelly Ramos also works for the company, creating customized cookies.

Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper does catering for occasions up to 800 people. It has a private party room, which can accommodate 50 people.

The company also offers a service that allows customers to choose meals from a menu, which the company prepares and customers pick up. Some entrees are heat and serve. Others may require a short cooking time.

To find out more about Dash of Salt ‘n Pepper, visit DashOfSaltnPepper.com, or call (813) 376-6689.

Published May 6, 2015

HART wants public input on Route 51X changes

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Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority is hosting two community meetings and a public hearing about changes the organization expects to make to a popular bus route that links Pasco County to downtown Tampa.

HART has three options that it’s considering for its Route 51X. The first would be to continue morning and afternoon express service between Pasco and downtown Tampa, providing hourly midday service between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., between HART’s University Area Transit Center and southern Pasco via Bruce B. Downs Boulevard.

The second option would be to discontinue direct express service between Pasco and downtown Tampa in favor of continual hourly midday service between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. along a similar route. Those riders wishing to go downtown can use other routes that would take them from the University transit center.

The final option would be to still discontinue direct express service in favor of continual hourly midday service between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m., with additional stops at the University of South Florida. Once again, riders who want to go downtown could take another bus from one of those stops.

The changes are being made based on ridership trends, and to help improve cost-efficiency of the system, according to a release from HART.

The first open house is planned for June 10 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at New Tampa Library, 1001 Cross Creek Blvd. the second open house is set for June 17 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at New Tampa Community Center, 17302 Commerce Park Blvd.

A public hearing is scheduled for July 8 beginning at 5 p.m. at New Tampa Library.

Riders also can email comments to .

Recommendations will be made to the HART board of directors in September, with implementation set for November.

Maps for the proposed changes to Route 51X can be found by clicking here.

For more information, call (813) 254-4278.