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The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Lutz since 1964 and Pasco since 1981.
Proud to be independently owned.

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Hugh Embry Library

The Dade City Banner chronicled local news

October 6, 2020 By Doug Sanders

By the time Katharine Graham became publisher of the Washington Post in 1963, Margaret Bazzell had already been the publisher for The Dade City Banner for 20 years.

Both women became owners of their family owned newspapers upon the deaths of their husbands.

Succeeding in a male-dominated industry, Graham was the first female publisher of a major American newspaper. Her paper’s coverage of the Watergate scandal eventually led to the resignation of President Richard Nixon in 1974.

The National Guard was brought in to protect dozens of homes and businesses damaged by a tornado, as reported by The Dade City Banner on April 2, 1959. (Courtesy of the University of Florida Digital Collections)

Bazzell became the first female publisher in Pasco County during World War II. Her husband died when he was just 42.

The newspaper reported the death under the headline — “H. S. Bazzell died suddenly Sunday p.m.,” spelled out in all capital letters.

An account, published Jan. 22, 1943, said in part: “When an employee is called upon to chronicle the passing of his employer and intimate friend it borders on the impossible.”

Prior to the Banner’s first publication on July 25, 1913, it chose a name that was briefly considered for Pasco County in 1887.

Volume 1, number 1 of the Banner was a “well-edited and well-appearing paper,” observed its first editor John Tippen.

Published on the Banner’s front page was a picture of “the beautiful Edwinola Hotel.” It was completed the previous year at a cost of about $50,000.

The structure was described this way in the Banner: “It is a fire-proof concrete building of three stories, containing 32 guest rooms, all of which are located on the second and third floors, the first floor being used for office, parlor and a dining room.”

In a notice to its readers and advertisers in 1915, the Banner promised “to conduct a clean, wholesome newspaper, which will give in every instance a fair deal to all.”

For much of the Banner’s history, that public pledge was followed by Margaret Bazzell.

During her time as owner and publisher until 1968, Margaret Bazzell would see her son, Harley S. Bazzell Jr., become editor.

She also hired her daughter-in-law Roszlyn “Ro” Bazzell (who died earlier this year); Harold Taylor, as typesetter; and William R. Branas, as advertising manager.

Calling itself “Pasco County’s Leading Newspaper,” the Banner became a daily and would eventually cover all of East and Central Pasco County, including the towns of Blanton, Dade City, Land O’ Lakes, Richland, Ridge Manor, San Antonio, Trilby, Gator (Wesley Chapel) and Zephyrhills.

“We lived within walking distance of our jobs,” former reporter Nell Moody Woodcock recalls on the Pasco County history website Fivay.org.

This old post card shows the offices of The Dade City Banner sometime in the early 1920s. The newspaper’s staff is pictured on the front steps, while a company car is shown on the right. (Courtesy of David Ward)

Keeping a finger on the pulse on Pasco
“The Banner was the newspaper of record for legal advertisements. Hard news was generated at the Pasco County Courthouse or city hall,” Woodcock recalls.

It was convenient that the Coleman and Ferguson Funeral Home was located on the opposite side of Seventh Street from the Banner.

“Their ambulances were called to emergencies, and a check with the front office would reveal the location and severity of the incident,” explains Woodcock, who grew up in Lacoochee and later retired as a staff reporter with The Tampa Tribune.

Readers especially enjoyed the Society Page by editor Catherine H. McIntosh. This section of the Banner was filled with articles about children’s birthday parties, families entertaining out-of-town guests, and weddings that were not complete without full descriptions of the dresses worn by the brides.

Typical was the following published on June 30, 1952: “Given in marriage by her father, the bride (Miss Vivian Bailey) wore a gown of candlelight satin with the full skirt terminating in a cathedral train. An overskirt of princess lace was a feature of the gown, which was fashioned with a basque bodice, with jewel neckline and long fitted sleeves with points over the hands. Her fingertip veil of illusion fell from a Queen of Scots cap, caught with orange blossoms, and appliqued with princess lace. She carried a shower bouquet of lilies of the valley and stephanotis, centered with a white orchid.”

With no door-to-door delivery, “subscribers got the paper in the mail (and) those who were in the military could learn all about what was happening back home by having the paper mailed to them,” according to the Fivay.org website.

That included local sports coverage by Gerald Newton, who was hired by the Banner in 1965 while still a 23-year-old student at Southeastern Bible College in Lakeland.

“I was once warned about being too wordy with some of my articles,” Newton posted on his Facebook page for Feb. 23, 2020.

This undated photograph shows the new Edwinola Hotel near downtown Dade City. Opening on March 8, 1912, it made front page news published in the first edition of The Dade City Banner on July 25, 1913. (Courtesy of Fivay.org)

The 1979 Dade City Little League state championship and the 1992 Pasco Pirate state title were covered during his 47-year career that spanned three newspapers following the Banner, as well as sports director for radio station WDCF in Dade City, and as a coach and teacher for Pasco County Schools.

Nearly 3,000 issues of The Dade City Banner are part of the digital collections on file at the University of Florida.

Preserving the newspaper began with efforts by the Pasco County Genealogy Society in 2000.

“They thought it would be a good idea to start indexing the births, deaths and marriages in The Dade City Banner,” explains Glen Thompson, a member of the Friends of the Hugh Embry Library in Dade City.

Following seven years of work on issues printed from 1913 to 1923, these copies were sent to the University of Florida. Also shipped out were Banners found in a dumpster, and others stored in archival boxes at city hall.

According to Angelo Liranzo, the library’s manager, copies of The Dade City Banner were digitized from 1914 to 1971 at a cost of approximately $15,000.

While the digital files are all PDF, the original papers still survive.

They chronicle news including construction of the new Evans bulk orange juice concentrate facilities south of Dade City in 1957, and the closing of the Cummer & Sons Cypress Company in 1959.

But, the stories of generations of families are the primary history that is preserved, in part, on the pages of The Dade City Banner.

The records are not clear, but sometime between 1973 and 1974, The Dade City Banner changed its name to The Pasco News under new management.

Doug Sanders has a penchant for unearthing interesting stories about local history. His sleuthing skills have been developed through his experiences in newspaper and government work. If you have an idea for a future history column, contact Doug at .

Published October 07, 2020

Filed Under: Local News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Angelo Liranzo, Catherine H. McIntosh, Coleman and Ferguson Funeral Home, Cummer Sons Cypress Company, Dade City Little League, Edwinola Hotel, Gerald Newton, Glen Thompson, H.S. Bazzell, Harley S. Bazzell Jr., Harold Taylor, Hugh Embry Library, John Tippen, Katharine Graham, Margaret Bazzell, Neil Moody Woodcock, Pasco County Genealogy Society, Pasco County Schools, Richard Nixon, Roszyln Bazzell, Southeastern Bible College, The Dade City Banner, The Pasco News, The Tampa Tribune, University of Florida, Washington Post, Watergate, William R. Branas, World War II

County approves purchase of new library furniture

September 29, 2020 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The Pasco County Commission has approved the purchase and installation of new furniture in conjunction with library renovations at the Hugh Embry, Land O’ Lakes, Regency Park and South Holiday libraries.

The purchases include new library furniture, shelving, book trucks, waste and

recycling receptacles, according to Pasco County Commission agenda documents.

The contracts call for purchases not to exceed:

  • $269,235.57 for the Hugh Embry Library
  • $491,252.12 for the Land O’ Lakes Library
  • $483,452.64 for the Regency Park Library
  • $289,326.90 for the South Holiday Library

The total for all four is slightly more than $1.53 million.

The new furniture is part of the library improvements being funded through the issuance of General Obligation Bonds that were approved by voters.

The interiors of the Hugh Embry, Land O’ Lakes, Regency Park, and South Holiday libraries will be completely renovated and restructured, the county documents say.

Renovations include removal of existing partitions, doors, windows, fixtures, devices, furnishings, lighting, HVAC, and finishes throughout the interior spaces.

New construction for the interior includes new doors and windows, storefront, partitions, fixtures, finishes, visual display, HVAC, plumbing, electrical lighting, and a security system. The new library furniture and shelving will be compatible with the new design.

The purchase of new library furniture, multi-purpose furnishings, library shelving, library book trucks, and recycling and waste receptacles from a single vendor is required to maintain standardization, and will benefit the county by maintaining interchangeability and compatibility with other libraries, the agenda documents say.

This purchase has been budgeted as part of the furniture, fixtures and equipment of the overall renovation project.

Published September 30, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Hugh Embry Library, Land O' Lakes Library, Pasco County Commission, Regency Park Library, South Holiday Library

Check out these reopened libraries

May 26, 2020 By Kathy Steele

Pasco County residents once again can walk into a library and check out a book.

Or, spend time on a computer doing online searches.

Or, find a magazine to their liking.

Jessica Meisenbach missed being able to check out books at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library. Her mask covered a big smile. (Kathy Steele)

As of May 18, Pasco County libraries are open for business — with the exception of the Zephyrhills Branch Library, which is offering curbside service only at this time.

The county’s reopened libraries do have limitations to prevent the potential spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). For one thing, they’re closed from noon to 1 p.m., each day, for cleaning.

Capacity is limited, too. Plus, face masks are required of both patrons and staff.

There are a limited number of face masks available for those lacking one.

Floor space is marked off for social distancing. And, computer time is by appointment only.

Self-checkout is available for books and magazines.

Pasco branch libraries, including the one in Land O’ Lakes, are marked off for social distancing.

Curbside pickup is still available, and is encouraged.

“Our curbside pickup is the star of the show,” said Catherine Seavey, librarian at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library.

Curbside service began a week before the libraries reopened.

At the Land O’ Lakes branch, patrons drive to the back of the building, park in one of the curbside slots and wait for a librarian to bring out their pre-ordered book selection.

“That’s been especially popular,” said Bob Harrison, marketing program manager for Pasco County library system.

In fact, it’s so popular, the service likely will continue even after the libraries are fully reopened, Harrison said.

Currently, under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ executive order, libraries can operate at 50% capacity.

Pasco County has opted to be more conservative, with as few as nine patrons at a time in the Hugh Embry Branch Library in Dade City and as many as 36 at once at the Hudson Regional Library, in Hudson.

“We decided to be very slow, very cautious. The safety of our patrons, and our staff, take priority,” Harrison said.

Library officials will monitor health reports on infections before increasing capacity, he added.

Ian Boyne browsed the ‘New Book’ shelf at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library.

Patrons are slowly starting to return.

“While it certainly is not as busy as it usually is, there are definitely people coming in.”

Lutz resident Jessica Meisenbach said she brought her three children, a 16-year-old and 11-year-old twins, to the Land O’ Lakes branch soon after the doors opened.

They prefer reading books rather than E-books, she said.

She’s with them.

She was at the library on Thursday morning, making her own book selections.

“I can’t do virtual reading. I like my own little book,” Meisenbach said.

Wesley Chapel resident Ian Boyne browsed the library’s “New Book” shelf.

“I’m really tired of re-reading all my Stephen King books. I have nothing to read,” he said.

While libraries have reopened, not all areas or activities are available.

If you need an unemployment form, you can pick one up from a table outside Pasco libraries.

The makerspaces, seating areas and study rooms remain closed, and story times for children remain online and virtual.

The COVID-19 shutdown has had the effect of boosting the library’s already strong online presence with additional virtual activities.

Patrons are accustomed to E-books and audio books, Harrison said.

But, during the shutdown, librarians looked for more ways to use technology, too.

In addition to the curbside service, there could be other and newer online activities that will continue, Harrison said.

“Libraries in general, and Pasco, in particular, pride ourselves on innovation,” Harrison said.

For library hours and other information, visit PascoLibraries.org.

Published May 27, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Bob Harrison, Catherine Seavey, COVID-19, Dade City, Hudson Regional Library, Hugh Embry Library, Ian Boyne, Jessica Meisenbach, Land O' Lakes Branch Library, Pasco County Libraries, Ron DeSantis, Zephyrhills Branch Library

Places you can turn to for help in Pasco, Hillsborough counties

April 21, 2020 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Pick up paper unemployment forms
Both Hillsborough and Pasco counties are handing out paper unemployment forms at specific libraries.

Hillsborough County
The location near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area is at Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave. The library’s drive-thru will be open seven days a week, from 9:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Once completed, residents also can drop off the forms at either drive-through, and library staff will mail the documents for them.

Pasco County
Printed unemployment forms will be available just outside the entrance to these libraries, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

  • Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes
  • Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City

If you’re unable to visit a library in person and would like to request a blank application form by mail, please contact the library at "> or through the “Ask A Librarian” feature at PascoLibraries.org.

Once completed, residents can mail the form to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

For more information about Pasco County Libraries, including the library catalog, E-content,  programs, events and links to all Pasco County Library branches, visit PascoLibraries.org.

Hillsborough County emergency help
As the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) fallout continues, Hillsborough County officials are reminding residents about assistance available to help people meet their food needs.

Here is a look at some programs:

  • Hillsborough residents age 60 and older can apply for food assistance through Hillsborough County Aging services. There is no income requirement to participate in the federally funded program. To find out more, call (813) 2727-5250.
  • Feeding Tampa Bay is offering drive-thru distribution of free, pre-packaged groceries to Hillsborough County residents in need. Distribution is on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Hillsborough Community College’s Dale Mabry campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., in Tampa. Check Feeding Tampa Bay’s website before the events, to be sure there have been no changes. To find out about other food assistance programs and information, visit FeedingTampaBay.org, or call (813) 254-1190.
  • Tampa YMCA Veggie Van is distributing free pre-packaged bags of produce in several neighborhoods in Hillsborough County. No ID, paperwork or pre-screening is required to receive the food. Learn more, visit Tampa Veggie Van on Facebook.
  • SNAP recipients across the state starting April 21 will be able to use EBT cards to make eligible food purchases from Walmart and Amazon online.

Pasco Planning and development open online
Pasco County’s planning and development department is only accepting electronic submittals via its online portals. It is not accepting hard copy application packages, hard copy re-submittals or checks.

All project information must be uploaded in Accela and all payments must be made online via e-check ($1.99 fee) or credit card (2.65% fee) through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal.

To communicate with the department, reach out to a specific staff member, via email or telephone. You can email general questions to , or call (727) 847-8142.

Tips for reducing stress
Here are some suggestions from the National Alliance on Mental Illness to help reduce potential stress and anxiety, as the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic disrupts our daily lives.

Manage how you consume information
Equip yourself with information from credible, reputable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). See “Basic information” section for more links.

Be selective about how you consume news. It’s generally a good idea to stay engaged and informed. Having some limits on your news consumption can help:

  • Watching or listening to the same news constantly can increase stress. Reading can be an easier medium to control how much and what kind of information you’re absorbing.
  • Set limits on when and for how long you consume news and information, including through social media. It may help you to choose a couple of 15-minute blocks each day when you will check news/social media and limit your news consumption to that time.
  • False information spreads very easily on social media and can have serious consequences for individual and public health. Always verify sources and make sure they are reputable, especially before sharing anything.

Follow healthy daily routines as much as possible
Your daily habits and routines can help you feel more in control of your own well-being.

Even simple actions can make a difference:

  • Make your bed
  • Get dressed
  • Connect with loved ones
  • Move your body
  • Make time for breaks
  • If possible, take regular short breaks during work or between shifts. During these breaks, go outside and engage in physical activity if you can.
  • Practice good hygiene, especially by cleaning your hands
  • Get enough regular sleep, it is critical for your immune system
  • Eat nutritious food as much as possible, especially fruits and vegetables

Published April 22, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Accela Citizens Access, CDC, Centers for Disease Control, Collier Parkway, coronavirus disease-2019, COVID-19, Dade City, Feeding Tampa Bay, Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Fourth Street, Hillsborough Community College, Hillsborough County Aging, Hugh Embry Library, Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, Land O' Lakes Library, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Pasco County Libraries, SNAP, Tampa YMCA Veggie Van, Unemployment forms, West Bearss Avenue, West Tampa Bay Boulevard, WHO, World Health Organization

Suggestions wanted for Burks playground improvements

July 3, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

Dade City’s John S. Burks Memorial Park playground will be undergoing remodeling, and Pasco County wants its residents to have a say on ways to improve the play space.

The playground at the John S. Burks Memorial Park is set for renovation in 2020, and Pasco residents are being asked to help create the new look for the Dade City play area. (Courtesy of Angela Fagan-Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources)

A session is set for July 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., to give people a chance to  offer their ideas for the project. Kids too, are encouraged to brainstorm and bring fresh ideas for Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources to consider.

While the county department has potential plans in mind, any expansion or additional amenities to the playground may be factored in after public comments have been weighed.

The renovation will occur during 2020, but no completion date has been given.

The public meeting will be in the Hugh Embry Library conference room, at 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City.

For additional information, contact the Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department at (813) 929-2760.

Public meeting for John S. Burks Memorial Park playground
Where: Hugh Embry Library conference room, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City
When: July 10 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The public is invited to the library to offer their ideas for the remodeling of the Dade City playground.
Info: Call the Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department at (813) 929-2760.

Published July 03, 2019

Filed Under: Local News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Dade City, Fourth Street, Hugh Embry Library, John S. Burks Memorial Park, Pasco County Parks Recreation and Natural Resources

Wesley Chapel library to be remodeled this fall

May 8, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

Community locals gathered at the New River Branch Library to learn of Pasco County’s plans to renovate the building’s interior and exterior.

The April 25 meeting was also an opportunity for the public to voice any questions, concerns or ideas regarding the project.

The library is one of seven branches that will undergo makeovers with funding provided by a general obligation bond overwhelmingly supported by Pasco County voters in November 2018.

Angelo Liranzo explained to a crowd on April 25 the future plans to remodel the New River Branch Library. The library, located near the border of Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills, is one of seven branches in Pasco County that will undergo renovations. (Brian Fernandes)

The New River library is situated at 34043 State Road 54, which is near the border of Wesley Chapel and Zephyrhills.

Much of the planning for the improvements was based on feedback received from library patrons, said Angelo Liranzo, regional branch manager for New River and the Hugh Embry Library in Dade City.

Those attending the community meeting saw aerial-view drawings of the library — which will be reconfigured but not expanded.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is working along with the county to fulfill the project.

A second entry will be added with a right-turn lane for motorists who are heading west on Old State Road 54.

The entrance will lead to the existing parking lot and will have signage to direct drivers.

Guests inquired about a possible way to turn left onto Old State Road 54 when exiting the library. At present, only right turns can be made when leaving the premises.

“We were hoping for a left-hand turn median, [but] we don’t see that in FDOT’s plans right now,” the branch manager responded.

However, he encouraged the group to take the issue up with county officials.

Linda Harris was relieved when plans were mentioned to incorporate more seating between the parking lot and the entrance.

“My friend is physically challenged and she has a hard time getting from her car all the way into the building,” the Zephyrhills resident said.

She explained that with additional seating, her friend can stop to rest, if needed.

There also are plans to add a book drop-off site in the parking lot, making it more convenient to return books.

A sidewalk also will be added, leading from the parking lot to the library’s community garden on the building’s east side.

This will provide easy access to the garden for those with limited mobility, Liranzo said.

Within the garden, an outdoor classroom will be built and shaded by an aluminum roof.

Alexandra Kotzeva is receptive to the plan. The Wesley Chapel resident volunteers at the library after school hours.

“I’m really glad to hear that the outdoor class(room) is going to be a thing now,” the 17-year-old said.

Attendees also expressed interest when they learned that the outdoor classroom would also serve as a stage for live performances and seminars, and also be equipped with proper lighting.

When a question was raised about security, Liranzo noted that lighting and surveillance cameras around the library’s outer perimeter is a possibility.

Cameras may be placed inside as well, especially at the entrance, he added.

Plans also call for seating in the front lobby, to encourage a social atmosphere, and there will be an art gallery.

The existing meeting room, to the immediate left, also will be enlarged by moving the rear wall back several feet. That room will also have new lighting, that can be dimmed or brightened, depending on the nature of the activity.

In response to a question about the children’s room, Liranzo said that the area will be larger and will be designed as an activities area.

It will feature a variety of amenities for the children, and will be walled off by a glass window so kids can still be supervised from the adult room.

As the largest area in the library, the adult room will be open to all, with computer stations, as well as a reading and seating area.

There will be three new study rooms by patron request and a room for young adults.

Also, there will be new restrooms.

“There will be self-checkout,” Liranzo added. “We’re trying to create more self-service opportunities for people who just want to do something quick, and go.”

These book stations will be located at the front desk and in various areas of the library.

However, he noted, library staff will still be available to help patrons requiring assistance.

New River will be closed during construction, which is set to begin in October, and is expected to take six months to complete.

Staff will be working with community partners to provide library services at other locations.

Published May 08, 2019

Filed Under: Local News, Wesley Chapel/New Tampa News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Alexandra Kotzeva, Angelo Liranzo, Dade City, Florida Department of Transportation, Hugh Embry Library, Linda Harris, New River Branch Library, Old State Road 54, State Road 54, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills

Dade City is established as butterfly sanctuary

April 24, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

Dade City has been inducted as a Monarch City USA – pledging to help preserve the monarch butterfly population.

In March, the city joined the ranks of four other Florida municipalities in addressing the plight facing these endangered insects.

The idea of seeking the designation was initiated by the Dade City Garden Club.

Nanette O’ Hara, a master gardener who lives in Hillsborough County, captured this photograph of a Monarch butterfly. (Courtesy of Nanette O’Hara)

After the scarcity of the butterfly species became a topic of discussion at a board meeting last year, club members felt compelled to take action.

“When we did our research and saw the numbers drastically declining, that was alarming,” said Joan Hepscher, a club member.

They studied the guidelines of the Monarch City USA organization during meetings in 2018, and earlier this year the club approached a longtime supporter of theirs for help – Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez.

She was instantly on board in helping to move the project forward.

“I have come to know and respect the garden club,” Hernandez said. “My line is: ‘How can I help you?’”

The mayor then brought up the issue as an agenda item before the Dade City Commission, which ultimately approved the project.

The mayor signed a proclamation in March to establish Dade City as a Monarch City USA.

This national organization was formed in 2015 to help prevent the extinction of monarch butterflies.

It gets to the heart of the matter, addressing the lack of milkweed and nectar plants – the butterflies’ food source.

Limited nutrition is due, in part, to harsh weather conditions during winter seasons.

Dade City has become a Monarch City USA. Here, Joan Hepscher, of the Dade City Garden Club, is being assisted by Jim West, of DeLand, which also is a Monarch City USA. (Courtesy of Sally Redden)

A 2016 study revealed that during the past two decades, the monarch population dropped by 68 percent, according to the Center for Biological Diversity.

Through Monarch City USA, municipalities across the United States are encouraged to join the effort in populating their land with milkweed and nectar plants.

Hepscher noted that when monarchs migrate from Canada to the U.S., and then to Mexico, they need to have “way stations.”

“As they fly, they need to have places to stop, eat, refresh and lay their eggs for the next generation,” she explained.

While this is beneficial to the monarchs, it also contributes to the circle of life for other insects.

Butterflies are just one of many pollinators who work as a team to provide nourishment for each other.

Thus, the Garden Club sees their efforts as being two-fold, not only preserving the monarchs, but wildlife on a whole.

On March 16, they had a monarch butterfly seminar to educate the public on how they can contribute in their own backyards.

The club will grant certificates to residents who follow simple guidelines, such as planting milkweed and nectar in their gardens.

The club will hold itself to those same standards, planting on its premises outside the clubhouse, as well.

In the pre-butterfly stage, caterpillars also benefit by eating the plant leaves down to uneven shapes.

Hepscher said that although they may not look aesthetically pleasing, the unshapely leaves serve their purpose.

“This plant is doing its job because it was here to feed the caterpillars, and it’s done that,” she stated.

Adults aren’t the only ones who are encouraged to join in the effort.

Hernandez has enlisted the city’s youth council to help on the project.

The Garden Club also has twice-a-year programs at the Hugh Embry Library for kids called ‘Nature Detectives.’

In these classes, the youth watch videos, do crafts and are involved in other activities to help them learn about the animal kingdom.

“We do believe educating children is the way to change the future and getting them to respect nature,” Hepscher said.

In some ways, the kids may be ahead of the game as they’ve already studied the monarch butterflies in depth.

The Monarch City USA designation includes the opportunity to display a Monarch City USA sign, which has not yet arrived.

The city is planning a fall festival to celebrate its induction as a Monarch City USA. It also plans additional educational seminars.

The Garden Club hopes that such events are held annually to encourage the preservation of wildlife.

“We feel we can take control of the future and we can make it better here in Dade City,” Hepscher stated.

Published April 24, 2019

Filed Under: Local News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Camille Hernandez, Center for Biological Diversity, Dade City, Dade City Commission, Dade City Garden Club, Hugh Embry Library, Joan Hepscher, Monarch City USA

Class provides advice on healthy cooking

September 19, 2018 By Brian Fernandes

Shari Bresin understands the challenge of finding the time to prepare healthy foods, while having a busy schedule.

Bresin, the Family and Consumer Science agent for the Pasco County Extension Office, said she can relate to that challenge.

“I know what it’s like to be on the go,” Bresin said.

A class she’s now teaching at the Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, aims to help people to gain a better understanding of healthy eating and offers cooking demonstrations, too.

Cooking instructor Shari Bresin prepares a cabbage stir-fry demonstration, and then provides samples to guests. (Brian Fernandes)

The Extension Office, which is part of  the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), is providing the four-part class, called “Cooking Matters.”

The first class was on Sept. 6. The others are scheduled on Sept. 27 and Oct. 4. Each session is from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The classes aim to help people who are interested in living healthier lifestyles.

“I, myself, am very passionate about health and cooking,” said Bresin. “There’s a big need, for sure, in combating chronic diseases and getting people healthier.”

During her lectures, she encourages group participation, asking the audience about their food preferences.

At one point during the first class, she asked participants to name foods they eat by color.

The instructor then explained the health benefits of eating organic foods that may be green, blue or red, among other colors.

She concluded her class with a cooking segment, preparing stir-fry cabbage in a grill, and then offering samples to class members.

Each of the four classes includes a cooking demo, gives participants a chance to indulge, and provides a take-home recipe.

The classes will cover the topics of budgeting and meal planning, and will provide information to dispel the notion that eating healthy is too expensive.

At the first class, Bresin provided a PowerPoint presentation to explain a modern version of the food pyramid called My Plate. My Plate displays a circular dish divided into five food groups that are recommended for any given meal.

It is portioned into grains, dairy, protein, fruits and vegetables.

It recommends that half of grain intake be made of whole grains, while fruits and vegetables make up half the plate.

Those taking part in the class also have the chance to win a gift card.

To find out more, contact Bresin at (352) 518-0156.

‘Cooking Matters’ Classes
Where: Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City
When: Upcoming classes are set for Sept. 27 and Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free
Details: Classes include cooking demonstrations and offer advice for healthy cooking.
Info: Call Shari Bresin at (352) 518-0156.

Published September 19, 2018

Filed Under: Local News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Dade City, Fourth Street, Hugh Embry Library, My Plate, Pasco County Extension Office, Shari Bresin, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences

Local garden club celebrates National Garden Week

July 11, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

The Dade City Garden Club recently celebrated National Garden Week, with a variety of activities in Dade City.

Diane Scott, of Dade City Garden Club, demonstrates how to make a floral arrangement to one of the city employees.
(Courtesy of Dade City Garden Club)

The club received a proclamation from the Dade City Commission in May, asking the club to share their knowledge with Dade City residents.

In response, the garden club set up 21 floral displays and three conservation exhibits in 17 Dade City businesses, according to a news release from the Dade City Garden Club.

The exhibits were “Storm Water Runoff,” “Plight of Springs” and “Threats to our State Parks,” the release says.

The floral displays were placed at Hugh Embry Library, Peterson Insurance, Centennial Bank, Historic Courthouse, Matter of Taste, City Hall/Exhibit, Kiefer’s, Center State Bank, Williams Lunch on Limoges, Nye Commercial, Wells Fargo/Exhibit, Pioneer Museum/Exhibit, Sun Coast, Garden of Eden, The Custom Frame Shop, Law Office of Sarah Sultenfuss, and Law Office of Laurie R. Chane, the release said.

The club also hosted a free “Nature Detective” workshop at the library.

And, it hosted an open house on June 9 from 9 a.m. to noon, where they showcased all of the floral designs and exhibits that have been at area businesses.

The club’s historic ornaments also were on display. The club has created 24 ornaments since 1994.

Club members also were on hand to give garden tours and answer questions.

Light refreshments were served.

Published July 11, 2018

Filed Under: Local News, News Stories, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Centennial Bank, Center State Bank, City Hall/Exhibit, Dade City, Dade City Commission, Dade City Garden Club, Garden of Eden, Historic Courthouse, Hugh Embry Library, Kiefer’s, Law Office of Laurie R. Chane, Law Office of Sarah Sultenfuss, Matter of Taste, National Garden Week, Nye Commercial, Peterson Insurance, Pioneer Museum/Exhibit, Sun Coast, The Custom Frame Shop, Wells Fargo/Exhibit, Williams Lunch on Limoges

Buzzin’ about bees at the Hugh Embry Library

June 20, 2018 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Ginny Geiger, a member of the Dade City Garden Club, delivered an entertaining and informative program on the importance of bees at the Hugh Embry Library.

Ginny Geiger delivers a high-energy lesson on the importance of bees. (Christine Holtzman)

Geiger led the “Nature Detectives Bee Workshop,” dispensing information and, at one point, demonstrating how a bee might act, if a wasp — an enemy of the bee — approached the hive.

In her hour-long workshop, Geiger talked about the importance of bees as pollinators.

The western honey bee, according to the University of Florida, IFAS Extension, is conceivably the most important pollinator in Florida and American Agricultural landscapes.

Three-year-old Miguel Alvarez, of Dade City, proudly shows off his bee that he made during the workshop.

Bees are critical to the food chain, and without them much of the fruits and vegetables at local supermarkets would disappear.

Besides talking about the importance of bees, Geiger also gave the children a chance to try their hand at making a bee.

The workshop, held during National Garden Week, was sponsored by the Dade City Garden Club, in coordination with the Hugh Embry Library.

The program was first developed by the St. Augustine Garden Club and is recognized by the American Library Association.

Everyone who took part received a bee swag bag — containing things to do, fun facts, a packet of flower seeds, honey samples and a copy of the book “You Wouldn’t Want to Live Without Bees.”

By Christine Holtzman

Published June 20, 2018

With her model bee in hand, 9-year-old Glorie Todd, of Dade City, listens to instructor Ginny Geiger as she speaks about the next activity, which will be sampling honey.
Seven-year-old Annabelle Harris, of Dade City, and her brother, 9-year-old Anderson, construct their model bees during a hands-on activity at the Nature Detectives program.

Deborah Roberts, of Zephyrhills, helps her grandson, 5-year-old Kaeden Roberts, construct a model bee during one of the hands-on activities given recently at the Nature Detectives Bee Workshop at the Hugh Embry Library.

Six-year-old Annette Sanchez and her mom, Leticia Alvarez, from Dade City, work together as they glue the wings on a model bee. The bee was included in the little girl’s ‘swag bag.’

Filed Under: Local News, Zephyrhills/East Pasco News Tagged With: Dade City Garden Club, Ginny Geiger, Hugh Embry Library, St. Augustine Garden Club, UF/IFAS Extension

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01/27/2021 – Into the Interstellar

The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will present “Into the Interstellar Unknown” on Jan. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Natalia Guerreo will present the latest news from NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). Guerrero works at the MIT Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and Space Research on the MIT-led NASA TESS Mission. The program is for teens and adults. Registration is through the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. … [Read More...] about 01/27/2021 – Into the Interstellar

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The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host “Stroke of Genius” on Jan. 27. This virtual craft includes an instructional slide show on how to draw Zentangles. View the post, available all day, on the South Holiday Library’s Facebook page. … [Read More...] about 01/27/2021 – Zentangles

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The Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative will host “One Book, One Night” on Jan. 29 at 6:30 p.m., for teens and adults. Participants can start online as the beginning excerpt of the book “The Necklace” by Guy de Maupassant, is read in English, Spanish and French. For information and to register, visit the calendar feature at HCPLC.org. … [Read More...] about 01/29/2021 – One Book, One Night

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The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual craft for toddlers on Jan. 30 at 2 p.m. Participants can learn how to make a paper plate shark. To view the video, visit Facebook.com/cplib. … [Read More...] about 01/30/2021 – Toddler craft

01/31/2021 – Nova Era performs

The Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City, will host a live performance by the classical music group Nova Era on Jan. 31 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. The ensemble performs in handcrafted 18th-century costumes and ornate, powdered wigs. Gates open at 2 p.m. There will be heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. This is an outdoor event. Guests should bring lawn chairs. No cooler or pets. Masks are required inside the buildings. Social distancing will be in place. Advance tickets are $25, or $30 at the door (if available). For information and tickets, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org. … [Read More...] about 01/31/2021 – Nova Era performs

02/01/2021 – Yarn hearts

The Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City, will offer a craft kit for adults on Feb. 1, all day. Pick up a kit, while supplies last, to learn to make a yarn heart. For information, call 352-567-3576. … [Read More...] about 02/01/2021 – Yarn hearts

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