Land O' Lakes Boulevard

Busy hurricane season expected

June 30, 2020 By B.C. Manion

As if COVID-19, an economic meltdown and soaring unemployment aren’t enough — Floridians need to brace for an above-normal hurricane season, according to forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center.

Hurricane Irma gave Floridians a taste of Mother Nature’s fury. This year, weather experts are predicting higher-than-normal activity. (Courtesy of NOAA)

Just days into the season, which runs from June 1 through Nov. 30, Tropical Storm Cristobal swept into the Gulf Coast, triggering a storm surge of almost 6 feet along parts of the northern Gulf Coast, according to national weather reports. Heavy rain triggered flash flooding as far east as Florida, and as far north as Wisconsin and Minnesota. The storm also spawned tornadoes in Florida and as far north as Illinois.

That was the beginning of an Atlantic hurricane season that experts predict will have above-normal activity. Information released by NOAA says there’s a 60% chance of an above-normal season, a 30% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a range of 13 to 19 named storms, with winds of 39 mph or higher. Of those, six to 10 could become hurricanes, with winds of 74 mph or higher, including three to six hurricanes (Category 3, 4 or 5), with winds of 111 mph or more.

An average hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which six become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes, according to NOAA, a division of the National Weather Service.

Concerns about the potential spread of COVID-19 — the deadly virus that has already claimed more than 3,400 lives across Florida — is causing emergency officials to plan differently this year.

Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa said the county will be working with the Department of Health that is maintaining a current list of COVID-positive patients, as well as people of interest.

Part of the county’s plan calls for using the center at Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes, to shelter positive COVID-19 patients, or people who have been exposed to the virus.

The county also will use schools as shelters, and will open them as they are needed.

Hurricane Irma blew down lots of trees around Pasco County, including this one, across an East Pasco road. (File)

This year, because of the pandemic, the county also has lined up some hotels and a resort, to use, if necessary, Fossa said. Some empty big box stores also might serve as shelters, he added.

“You’ve got to get creative in this kind of work,” he said.

The county needs to add more potential shelters this year because, in response to COVID-19, the American Red Cross and FEMA have changed the footprint required for sheltering.

“It used to be at general population, you were allocated 20 square feet, inside this big open area. That was your little slice of life. Now, with COVID, they made that 60 square feet,” Fossa said.

Shelter routines will be different
While waiting to register, those arriving will have to stay apart from each other, to maintain a safe social distance. Before entering the shelter, they will have their temperature taken, will be asked the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guideline questions and will be given a mask to wear in the shelter, Fossa said.

Anyone whose temperature exceeds 100.4 degrees F., will be sent to a different shelter, if time permits, or will remain at the shelter but will be housed in a separate part of the shelter.

Fossa said the county has secured enough personal protective equipment for county staff, nurses and firefighters that will be working at the shelters.

Many injuries occur after natural disasters because inexperienced people try to handle tasks they don’t know how to do. Enlist the help of professionals, if possible, and make sure they are properly licensed and insured. (File)

The county is uncertain how comfortable people will feel about staying at a shelter because of concerns about COVID-19. It has released a survey to try to get a better idea of where Pasco residents stand on that issue.

Fossa noted that AAA has done a survey in Florida and the results showed that 42% would not go to a shelter because of COVID-19.

The emergency management director also noted that the state has issued some guidance on whether people should evacuate.

“If you have a home that was built post-1996 and you’re not on the water, you’re not in an evacuation zone, the coastline or anything like that, they’re (state officials) actually encouraging residents to stay in their houses for a Category 1, maybe Category 2 (storm).”

Fossa urged residents who have not already prepared for a potential threat, to do so now.

“Be ready,” he said. “If you don’t have a go-kit yet, you’re behind the curve.

“If we need to evacuate you, I am not going to sit at your house for 45 minutes while you say, ‘I’m going to grab this, I’m going to grab that. I’m going to grab that.’ Have it ready to go,” Fossa said.

Those evacuating should “go 10s of miles, not 100s of miles,” Fossa added. “You can go 10s of miles to stay with family and friends.”

By staying close to home, residents can avoid getting stuck in miles of traffic jams and keep hotel rooms free for people who are evacuating from more vulnerable areas.

If you are ordered to evacuate, wait for emergency officials to let you know that it’s safe to return.

The county has a fleet of drones it can use to assess damage, Fossa said.

He also noted that the county has 28 generators, which it can use to temporarily restore power to traffic lights that have been knocked out by severe weather.

And, it is getting another generator that is large enough to power a small building, he said. The primary use for that generator would be to restore power to a nursing home — to avoid a tragic outcome like the one that occurred at a Hollywood, Florida, nursing home a few years back.

Pasco County also has had to plan differently for managing its Emergency Operations Center.

“We’re not going to be like Irma. I’m not going to have 120 bodies in my EOC,” Fossa said. Instead, there will be about 17 key personnel there.

“Everybody else will work virtually. That’s the safest way to do it,” Fossa said.

The county has a wealth of information available for residents who want to find out if they’re in an evacuation zone, how to prepare for a hurricane and what to do in the aftermath.

You can find that information at PascoEmergencyManagement.com.

THINGS TO DO NOW
Before a hurricane threatens
Protect your property:

Be sure your trees and shrubs are trimmed.
Clear out clogged rain gutters and downspouts.
Document your valuables by making a list of the items, and taking photos of them and your property.

If a hurricane threatens

Cover windows with pre-cut plywood or hurricane shutters.
Store outdoor furniture, windchimes, garbage cans, decorations, potted plants and other items that could become projectiles in high winds.
If you have a boat, determine how and where to secure it.

Protect yourself:

Know your evacuation zone and be prepared to leave, if authorities tell you do so.

Particularly vulnerable areas include mobile homes, high-rise buildings, coastal areas, near rivers or inland waterways, and land below sea level.

If you live in a mandatory evacuation zone, prepare an evacuation plan that includes transportation routes and destinations, and considers all family members and pets.
If evacuating, reach out to family or friends, now, to see if you can stay with them. Whether you are sheltering in place, or evacuating, be sure to share your plans with someone outside of the danger zone.
When making evacuation plans, think in terms of 10s of miles away, instead of 100s of miles. People have been known to leave their homes only to go where the hurricane landed.

Have a go bag ready
Your go bag should include:

Medications
Clothing
Important documents, in a waterproof container, which includes bank account records, marriage certificates or divorce decrees, driver’s license, Social Security card, passport, titles, deeds, income tax information, trusts, wills, insurance papers and birth certificates.

Some practical pointers

Avoid gas lines: During hurricane season keep your tank full, or at least 3/4 full
Have cash on hand, in case banks are closed and ATMs lose power
Have a phone charger that doesn’t require electricity
Have a printed list of important telephone numbers, including county emergency management office, evacuation sites, doctors, bank, area schools, veterinarian, etc.
Have books and games available, to help pass the time

Stock up on emergency supplies

Water — one gallon for each person for three to seven days
Food — enough food for at least three to seven days. Nonperishable packaged or canned food and beverages, snack foods, juices. Supplies should include nonperishable foods that are easy to store and prepare, including protein bars, dried fruit, canned pastas, soups, canned tuna, peanut butter and jelly, crackers, raisins, beef jerky. Don’t forget the baby formula and baby food.

Tools/supplies

Non-electric can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, plastic cups
Grill, cooking tools, fuel, charcoal
Hand tools, automotive repair tools
Duct tape and heavyweight garbage bags or plastic sheeting (for shelter-in-place)
A wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

Personal comfort/hygiene/sanitation

Blankets, pillows, sleeping bags
Sunscreen, aloe, bug spray
Special items for babies, elders, persons with disabilities
Toiletries, hygiene items and sanitary wipes
Moist towelettes for sanitation
Garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

Safety

Radio — battery-operated or hand-cranked radio, NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) Weather radio
Flashlight and batteries
Medications, a first-aid kit
Filter masks to protect your mouth and nose
A whistle to signal for help
Seasonal rain gear, sturdy shoes or boots

Plan for your pets

Your pet emergency kit should include: Sturdy leashes, harnesses and/or a carrier; pet food, drinking water, bowls, cat litter, a litter pan; pet health records, current photos of your pets, in case they get lost; pet beds and toys.

DURING THE STORM
When sheltering in place

Close all interior doors. Secure and brace exterior doors. Take refuge in a small interior closet, or hallway on the lowest level. Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
Fill bathtubs or buckets with water to use for cleaning and toilet flushing.
Stay away from windows and glass doors.
Don’t be fooled by a lull in the storm. It could be the eye of the storm and the winds could resume.

AFTER THE STORM

Do not drive into water when you can’t see the bottom of the road; you could drown.
Do not walk through flooded areas, fast-moving water could carry you away. Also, the water could be contaminated with oil, gasoline, raw sewage and other contaminants. It also may be electrically charged from a downed wire.
Be careful about the foods you eat. If the power is out for a prolonged period, your food may have spoiled.
Do not burn charcoal in your house or garage, the fumes can be deadly.
Do not use gas-powered generators indoors or in a garage, the exhaust can be lethal.
If you’re using a generator, do not plug it into a building’s wiring. This can cause generator back feed, which is extremely dangerous for utility workers and for anyone in the public who comes into contact with a downed electrical wire.
If you have been evacuated, do not return to your home until authorities tell you that it is safe to do so.

If you have damage

Call your insurance agent.
Take photos of the damage.
Make emergency repairs to avoid more damage and keep receipts for tarps, lumber, etc.
Use licensed contractors to make repairs. Be wary of potential scams.

Published July 1, 2020

Charities hit hard

March 31, 2020 By B.C. Manion

It was a gorgeous day on March 7, as patrons streamed into the annual Fabulous Flea Market hosted by the GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, at the Old Lutz School.

Crowds were lined up on both sides of the school, on U.S. 41, waiting for the sale to start.

Elaine Pittman, affectionately known as “The Plant Lady,” said she sold more plants in a single day than on all but one other day during numerous years she’s sold plants at the market.

Woman’s Club member Elaine Pittman, also known as The Plant Lady, sells plants that she’s nurtured, to raise money to support Christian Social Services, which has a thrift store and food pantry. (B.C. Manion)

But, her plans to sell additional plants at the Spring Market, hosted by Citizens for the Old Lutz School, were dashed when the event was canceled because of concerns about the potential spread of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19).

Like a switch had been flipped, cancellations started happening all over.

The Taste of North Tampa Bay, The Land O’ Lakes Music Festival, The Jelly Bean Fling and numerous other events have been called off.

In the words of Pat Serio, who sits on the board of directors for the GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club: “Everything has completely shut down.

“I’m co-editor of the newsletter, and we cancelled our newsletter because frankly we had nothing to report because all of our calendar events for the next month would have to be listed as TBD (to be determined).”

Besides erasing opportunities for family fun and giving vendors a chance to make money — the cancellations have ripple effects.

Proceeds from Pittman’s plant sales, for instance, help to support Christian Social Services. That organization operates a food pantry within its thrift store, at 5514 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club and scores of other civic groups rely on fundraising efforts to help others. The woman’s club supports roughly 100 local organizations and charitable causes, Serio said.

The Spring Market and Fall Market are the fundraisers held each year to support upkeep of the Old Lutz School, said Stephanie Ensor, a member of Citizens for the Old Lutz School Building.

Besides raising money, the events help acquaint the community with the local historic landmark where generations of Lutz residents went to school.

Thirty-eight vendors had signed for the market. Proceeds from the event were intended to help pay for needed repairs because of termite damage.

Doors need to be replaced, Ensor said.

“The windows are rotting,” she added. “They are so expensive, we can only replace a couple at a time.”

Food pantries are feeling the pinch, too.

Robin Granger, of Life Church in Wesley Chapel, operates a food pantry and a weekly community lunch.

“The problem is, the stores that we get donations from, they don’t have very much,” Granger said.

“Typically, we pick up food from Costco three days a week and we have not gotten hardly anything at all,” she said.

Meanwhile, she said, “I know that folks that are under-resourced are really struggling.

“We did an emergency box for a single mom a couple of days ago. She worked at one of the local restaurants as a server, but they cut her hours. When they cut her hours, she was trying to get back on food stamps, but that’s a process. Meantime, she doesn’t have enough food for her kids,” Granger said.

“We’re a little concerned about having enough food for all of the folks that we serve.

“During this whole week, we’ve had emergency boxes of food going out.”

Concerns about the economic and health crisis prompted by COVID-19 are stressing people out, Granger said.

“There tends to be a lot of folks who are a little bit scared.

“I lead the single moms group at the church. Being a single mom and not having income is really, really frightening,” Granger said.

Published April 1, 2020

Enjoy Land O’ Lakes music jams

March 11, 2020 By Brian Fernandes

NOTE: THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park will be the gathering place for the annual Land O’ Lakes Music Festival.

People relax and enjoy the music of four popular local bands at the annual Land O’ Lakes Music Festival. (File)

A lineup of bands is set to perform on the stage at the park, at 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

The Greater Pasco Chamber of Commerce is hosting the concert, set for March 21, from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. The gate opens at 3:30 p.m.

Patrons can relax on the park’s open field with lawn chairs or blankets, and enjoy food from various food trucks, while listening to Solar Exposure, Den of Thieves, JT Curtis and the Florida Scoundrels, and Stonegrey.

The venue is a great place for kids to have fun, for families and friends to socialize, and to enjoy an event that brings people together from throughout the region.

For more information, call (727) 842-7651 or (813) 909-2722. Emails also can be sent to .

Land O’ Lakes Music Festival
When: March 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: $5 admission; free parking
Details: Patrons can enjoy a lineup of musical acts while relaxing on the park’s open field.
Info: Call (727) 842-7651 or (813) 909-2722. Email .

Published March 11, 2020

Planting the seeds of sustainable living

February 26, 2020 By B.C. Manion

Pasco County is pursuing a vision that’s aimed at giving people more opportunities to grow their own food, to learn the ins and outs of gardening, and to bring young and old together for a variety of activities.

A celebration was held recently at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., to unveil a new “Food for All” mural and to offer tours of a new community garden.

Dr. Whitney C. Elmore, director of the Pasco County Extension Office, told the crowd that the effort to create community gardens across the county began a few years ago.

Dr. Whitney C. Elmore, director of the Pasco County Extension Office, is working to expand the number of community gardens across Pasco County. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on Feb. 15 to celebrate the new community garden at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park. (Christine Holtzman)

“No. 1, we wanted to provide recreational opportunities for folks of all ages and abilities.

“We also wanted to provide areas where we could beautify different parts of our county.

“We wanted to be able to provide a location for folks to be able to come and learn about a variety of topics, from horticulture all of the way over to water conservation, and composting and sustainable living practices.

“But, we wanted to ensure food sovereignty — that anybody that was lacking, that was in need, would be able to have a place to go to grow their own food for their family; maybe even be able to start a small cottage industry, so they could be providing a source of income for their families,” Elmore said.

Such community gardens empower people, she added.

Elmore expressed gratitude to the Pasco County Commission for supporting the cause.

“They saw fit to see our vision to provide these spaces all across Pasco County, and you’re going to see more of these.

“We’re already on the east side of the county, here in Land O’ Lakes, and working on agreements for more community gardens on the west side of the county,” Elmore said.

She also expressed gratitude to master gardener volunteers who have been instrumental in helping to develop the community gardens.

“All of these plots are leased out for free to folks in our communities,” she said. “We have individuals. We have organizations. And, we have families, that are growing their own and learning to do so.”

Growing vegetables, and inclusivity, too
Elmore also noted the gardens can be used for special programs, such as the Gardening for Autism program, a six-week course that gives kids on the autism spectrum the chance to learn about horticulture.

Besides learning how to grow fruits and vegetables, they also can learn leadership skills, develop and hone social skills, and work on fine motor skills.

“And, we have been absolutely ecstatic at the response from the Autism Society of Florida and especially the impact that we can see these programs are having on children on the spectrum, as well as their families,” Elmore said.

Besides serving as the grand opening of the new community garden in Land O’ Lakes, the Feb. 15 event also featured the unveiling of the “Food for All Mural.”

Connor Laverty and Lucas Yingling, who are both on the autism spectrum, won the mural art contest. And, their work was transposed to the mural by Amy Nevins, an artist who lives in Palm Harbor.

Pasco County Commission Chairman Mike Moore, who spoke at the event, expressed gratitude to the Autism Society of Florida and to Nevins, for their involvement in the mural project.

“In Pasco County, what we want to do is to make sure that people of all abilities can participate in any activity we do,” he said.

That’s true, whether it means participating in an art contest and seeing one’s work on display, or having fun at a playground designed to be used by all children, such as the one at Wesley Chapel District Park.

U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis also dropped by the event and commended the efforts to create more community gardens.

“I’m a big fan of community gardening. I’d like to spread this throughout my congressional district. How can we miss with something like this?”

Sonide Simon, of the county’s planning and development department, noted, “Our mural is a prime example of what it means when county government and community come together to make something beautiful.”

She also pointed out the benefits of growing healthy foods in a garden.

The vegetables growing there are “natural medicine” that can help combat chronic diseases, such as obesity, that are plaguing the nation, she said.

She praised the mural, which she said proclaims the message: “let’s get back to nature and let’s make sure that everyone has access to food.”

Community gardens are creating communal spaces, which children and families can enjoy, she added.

Stacey Hoaglund, president of the Autism Society of Florida, congratulated the county and extension office for their involvement in the mural project.

These kinds of opportunities don’t always come to children with autism, she said.

“What this is about really, is inclusion. Being included in our communities. Being able to show what our kids, our adults with autism, are able to do. And, to become part of the overall life,” she said.

“I believe that a lot of people just underestimate the abilities of people with autism, and don’t include them in their communities as much as we would like,” she said.

“The Food for All Mural you have here — every time people drive by here and they see this beautiful wall, they can think about how people with autism are included in our communities, and have some really great things to offer,” Hoaglund said.

Published February 26, 2020

Under Construction 02/19/2020

February 19, 2020 By Brian Fernandes

Wesley Chapel will soon offer more furniture options for comfort and style with the coming La-Z-Boy Furniture gallery. (Brian Fernandes)

Furniture store in Wesley Chapel
A La-Z-Boy Furniture gallery will be another outlet for those looking for the right home décor. The building is at 25960 Sierra Center Blvd., in Lutz, and is 13,650 square feet. As part of the Cypress Creek Town Center, the structure is near the intersection of State Road 56 and Interstate 75. No completion or open date has been announced yet.

Electric station emerging
Land O’ Lakes will soon have a new electrical substation at the intersection of Morgan Road and U.S. 41. The substation will help distribute electricity as a result of a growing regional population. The new Morgan Road Substation will connect with the current substation on State Road 54 by way of a transmission line. The new substation also will have a transmission line that will run approximately 2.5 miles south to the intersection of North Dale Mabry Highway and County Line Road in Lutz. The substation is scheduled to be operational in November 2021.

Cigar shop to come
Cigar enthusiasts will enjoy the soon-to-come Cigars International shop. This store will offer cigars of all shapes, sizes and name brands. Located at 2691 Creek Grass Way in Lutz, the establishment will stand at 12,922 square feet. The building will be a part of the Cypress Creek Town Center, within walking distance of the coming Main Event and Rock N’ Brews establishments. It will be the third branch in the U.S., and the first of its kind in Florida. The completion and opening dates have not been announced.

Lutz to get office site
The Northwood Office and Warehouse building will soon be erected at 1040 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Lutz. As its name implies, the inside will be comprised of both office and warehouse space, ranging over 10,000 square feet. The construction site is on the east side of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, next to E&W Carpets Inc. Construction completion or opening date have not yet been announced.

Curious about something new that’s popping up in your community? Please send us the location — along with the address, if possible — and we’ll see what we can find out. Send your email to .

Published February 19, 2020

Tax Refund Is A Great Way To Fund Home Improvements

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

You may already be thinking about how to best use your tax refund, which most people get in February and March, a few weeks after filing their 2019 tax returns.

Tax refunds are substantial income for many families. The IRS reports that 90 percent of American taxpayers receive a refund, with $2,725 being the average refund in 2018.

And, while it’s fun to fantasize about blowing your refund on a shopping spree or vacation, it’s much wiser and more beneficial to your family to use the money to update your home’s mechanical systems.

“If your home was built in the past 20 years, it is likely overdue for a new A/C system, water heater and electrical panel,” said Miguel Silva of Cornerstone Pros Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Electrical in Land O’ Lakes.

“A tax refund will often cover the full cost of converting to a tankless hot water heater or replacing your electrical panel. Plus, it can be a significant down payment toward a new A/C system. If you take care of these home improvement projects now with your tax refund, we’ll get your job done within a day or two, and are offering some great coupons to reduce your cost,” Silva added.

Replacing your aged A/C system with a high-efficiency air conditioner can lower your energy bills significantly, prevent energy waste and perhaps most importantly, give you peace of mind that you will have consistent, chilled air-conditioned relief all year-long.

“Many people wait until their A/C system completely fails, or end up spending too much money on repairs trying to keep it going,” said Silva. “Use your tax refund to be proactive and upgrade your home’s mechanical systems before there are problems that impact your family’s health and comfort.”

Silva explains that replacing your home’s mechanical systems typically pays for themselves within a few years. “Folks don’t realize that their hot water heater and A/C unit are appliances, just like their refrigerator, and all appliances have a life span. If you’re getting close to the end of their warranty periods, give us a call and be proactive, instead of waiting until you have no hot water or air conditioning on the hottest day of the year.”

Many families are upgrading their home’s electrical panel to a 200-amp service because they want to add LED light fixtures, electrical outlets with USB ports, outdoor lighting, and power for generators, hot tubs and pools.

“Most panels in older homes are wired for just 100 or 150 amps, which is not enough wattage for today’s myriad of home electronics,” said Silva. “Most tax refunds will easily cover the cost to replace your entire electrical panel with a new one.”

Cornerstone also sees many households converting to a tankless hot water heater because they want endless hot water.

“Nothing is worse than running out of hot water when your family is getting ready for school, work or play,” said Silva. “After comparing the cost of replacing their old water tank, which is 100-year-old technology that is very energy inefficient, most homeowners switch to a tankless system because it costs 50 percent less to operate, plus gives them hot water on demand with absolutely no fuss.”

Cornerstone Pros was founded in 2006 as an air conditioning service company. It moved to its 4-acre site on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard in 2011 and, the following year, added plumbing services. In 2014, it expanded again with electrical services, and in 2017, with generators.

In 2018, Cornerstone Pros built a 6,000-square-foot warehouse next to its headquarters on U.S. 41, to store air conditioning units of all sizes and stock high-demand service items for its air conditioning, electrical and plumbing operations. It also stocks tankless hot water systems, and portable and permanent generators, including whole-house systems by Generac.

“Every morning, our vans are fully stocked with everything our technicians need, which means on most calls, we are able to solve a customer’s problem on the first visit,” said Silva. “Please call us today to get a quote for your home improvement project, so you’re ready to go when your tax refund comes in.”

Tax Refund Specials:
FREE A/C Estimate
+ $150 off installation

$100 OFF Tankless
Water Heater Installed

FREE Nest Thermostat
With any 16 SEER A/C replacement

$50 Off LED
Lighting Upgrade

No Payments First 3 Months
With low-interest financing
up to 120 months

Published January 29, 2020

New donation drive set to help foster families

December 11, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

George Agovino and Josh Gaulden have launched a new initiative aimed at helping foster children.

The pair has established the Fostering Change Foster Closet, in what was formerly a vacant house, at 10207 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

George Agovino, left, and Josh Gaulden stand on either side of the Fostering Change Foster Closet logo. The two established the donation drive for foster families in need of basic supplies. (Brian Fernandes)

The 501 (c)(3) nonprofit is a hub for foster families to pick out free necessities that they otherwise could not afford.

It also will serve foster kids who have not been placed in a permanent home yet.

The new organization will officially open its doors, with an event called “Reconstructing Hope,” on Dec. 14.

Agovino said the point of the organization is to convey a sense of caring for children in foster care.

“Our goal is: We’re going to make them feel that they can come in, they can go shopping,” Agovino said. “Just by having this, you realize how many people care.”

The house, which had not been maintained recently, has undergone renovations in preparation for becoming the Fostering Change Foster Closet.

Multiple rooms have been turned into a free store, which are stocked with baby supplies, clothing, shoes, hygiene products, books and toys.

There’s also a new shed and several trailers, too, where supplies will be stored, as needed. A washer and dryer also will be installed.

Local companies have provided free help to reconstruct the building’s interior and exterior.

Those services included a new roof from 1st Choice Roofing.

Kenneth Phillips, the company’s team member, said that it donates its time and service for worthy projects.

“We instantaneously made them the recipient of our donation for the year and saw that there was a lot more need, and what a good cause it was,” he said.

The house also has new floor tiles, sheetrock and plumbing.

Students from Sunlake and Land O’ Lakes high schools donated their time to organize clothes and put up shelves.

The outdoor walls have been painted blue – the signature color for foster care awareness.

Agovino’s wife, Jennifer, and daughter Catherine-Christina, also helped to paint the organization’s logo on the front exterior wall.

Plans also call for transforming the front yard into a playground for kids to enjoy, Agovino said.

This service will not be exclusive to foster families in Pasco County, but will be open to other counties, as well.

As a retired law enforcement officer and a foster parent himself, Agovino understands the process that foster children face within the court system.

He was motivated to provide a donation drive to help those kids still in the system or those placed in a home, but still lacking basic needs.

Although the idea was set, there wasn’t a place to provide the service.

Initially, Gaulden helped Agovino get permission to place his trailer on the property where the organization is now located.

Initially, however, the men did not realize there was a vacant house on the land. It had been hidden by thick brush.

Frank and Joann Hedogous, the property owners, decided to donate the house and property for the organization’s cause.

It has taken several months to clear out the bushes, grass and tree branches overhanging the house and to complete renovations.

Gaulden and Agovino now are working to create an official website for Fostering Change Foster Closet.

The organization also is raising its profile through Facebook and by word-of- mouth.

It wants foster families to be aware of the service, and it wants to encourage the general public to get involved through donations.

The grand opening celebration is set for Dec. 14, at the house, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The public is welcome and there is no admission charge.

There will be vendors, food trucks, live music, raffles and a silent auction.

Kids can enjoy a petting zoo and various games. And foster kids, specifically, will be given toys as early Christmas gifts.

For more information, call (813) 421-1958, or email .

Reconstructing Hope
When: Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: 10207 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Fostering Change Foster Closet welcomes the public to celebrate the donation drive’s grand opening.
Info: Call (813) 421-1958, or email .

Published December 11, 2019

Benefit to support Lutz cancer patient

November 20, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

Bill Myers, of Lutz, has been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer — and the community has come together to try to help him.

A benefit has been planned for Nov. 23 from noon to 6 p.m., at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., in Land O’ Lakes.

There’s no admission charge for the event, which will feature musical performances, a variety of vendors and food vendors.

Several eateries will provide catered dishes that will be sold for voluntary donations.

Patrons, along with Bill, also can enjoy some cake, in recognition of Bill’s birthday – the previous day.

“He is a wonderful father and grandpa, and a good friend – to those lucky few – who get close enough to earn his trust and loyalty,” said Liz Myers, Bill’s wife.

There also will be T-shirts for sale and a silent auction.

Other highlights include a Zumba class and a bounce house, both being offered free of charge.

Paula O’ Neil, Pasco County’s former Circuit Court Clerk and Comptroller — who is a cancer survivor, will be the guest speaker for the fundraiser.

Santa Claus will be there, too, giving people a chance to have their photo taken with the jolly old fellow, for a voluntary donation.

Funds collected will go toward offsetting Bill’s medical expenses.

A GoFundMe page also eventually will be opened for contributions.

Anyone who would like to become a vendor, donate to the silent auction or have any inquiries, please contact Lillian Fontanez at (813) 551-7351 or .

Bill Myers’ cancer benefit
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
When: Nov. 23 from noon to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: A fundraiser will be held to offset the expenses for cancer patient, Bill Myers of Lutz.
Info: Contact Lillian Fontanez at (813) 551-7351 or .

Published November 20, 2019

Political season is beginning to heat up

November 6, 2019 By B.C. Manion

It’s not 2020 yet, but the political season is underway, and candidates are beginning to make their intentions known.

This Political Agenda column is The Laker/Lutz News’ way to keep our readers informed of candidates who have filed, political party meetings, political forums and endorsements.

This column also includes information that’s pertinent for upcoming elections, such as deadlines for registering, new polling places, meet the candidate nights, political town halls and other relevant news.

It does not promote political fundraisers.

The column runs periodically, based on the volume of submissions, but it generally runs about twice a month.

Those wishing to submit items for possible publication should send the information at least two weeks prior to the desired publication date. The Laker/Lutz News publishes on Wednesdays.

Send your items to .

Here is your first helping of Political Agenda

Club meetings

The Democratic Environmental Caucus of Florida-Pasco Chapter will meet Nov. 13, at the Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Doors open at 6 p.m., for networking. The guest speaker is Brandi Geoit, candidate for Pasco County Commission, District 5. She will talk about her environmental issues vision relating to Pasco County. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call Lee Ogden at (813) 778-3097.
The Wesley Chapel Republican Club will meet Nov. 14 at 6:30 p.m., at Toyota of Wesley Chapel, 5300 Eagleston Blvd. The guest speaker will be Pasco Commissioner Mike Moore. Admission free; all are welcome. Coffee and homemade desserts will be served. For information, call Peter Cracchiolo at (813) 360-9813.
The East Pasco Democratic Club will meet Nov. 18, at The Tavern at the Southport Springs Country Club, 3509 Southport Springs Parkway in Zephyrhills. The guest speaker will be Christine Bright on the topic of the National Popular Vote. Dining service begins at 5 p.m. The meeting starts at 6:30 p.m. For more information, call (813) 383-8315.
The Central Pasco Democratic Club will meet on Nov. 20, at Meadow Pointe 1 CDD, Building A, at 28245 County Line Road in Wesley Chapel. The doors open at 6:15 p.m. The presentation will be given by Marilyn Holleran, who will discuss what the climate crisis means and how it can be solved. For more information, email .
Libertad-Club Republicano de Pasco County meets on the third Monday of the month, beginning with a 6:30 p.m. social hour, with complimentary coffee and pastries. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. All are welcome. The group meets at Havana Dreamers Café, 3104 Town Ave., Suite 107, in Trinity. For more information, call (727) 807-7990.

Published November 06, 2019

Be Wary of Companies That Don’t Specialize In Plumbing

October 30, 2019 By Special to The Laker/Lutz News

Knowing who to call when one of your home’s primary mechanical systems needs repair —plumbing, electrical and air conditioning — can be overwhelming with so many businesses advertising their services.

Complicating your decision is that many A/C companies also offer limited plumbing services to install hot water heaters, a faucet or toilet. Unfortunately, most of these businesses only specialize in air conditioning, and when they add on limited plumbing services, they do not offer customers the full range of plumbers and installation crews often needed for a job.

“A lot of A/C companies that add on plumbing services do not have the experience to take care of the entire plumbing needs of a home,” said Dana Spears, president and owner of Cornerstone Pros in Land O’ Lakes. “These companies like to flip water heaters when they do a new A/C install, but do not have the plumbing experience a customer thinks they do.”

At Cornerstone Pros, its plumbing division is a stand-alone service department with 10 certified plumbers and three installation crews. Combined, this talented group has over 50 years of combined plumbing experience.

“When it comes to a true plumbing emergency, companies that do not have a full-service plumbing department do not have the knowledge, or the right equipment, to properly do the job,” said Spears.

“Don’t be tricked by thinking that all plumbers are the same. It takes many years of hands-on experience to be a master plumber. A sewer stoppage, whole-home re-pipe, gas lines install and other large projects require proper staffing that’s experienced and knowledgeable. These jobs can take up to five days, and having a qualified installation crew is essential for the job to be done correctly,” she continues.

Spears explains, many plumbing jobs require camera systems, sewer machines and industry-specific tools that most A/C companies do not own, because they are expensive to purchase and maintain. Cornerstone Pros owns this equipment and stays on top of the latest plumbing technology and tools.

“When you call Cornerstone Pros, you don’t have to worry because we have you covered for everything from the basics to the biggest jobs for your home,” said Spears. “Our plumbing team has the industry experience to handle your job and fix it right the first time, no matter the task.”

“Every morning our vans are fully stocked with everything our technicians need, which means on most calls, we are able to solve a customer’s problem on the first visit,” said Spears. “Our warehouse has allowed us to become a more efficient service operation and provide even better customer service.”

Spears credits her company’s growth to its commitment to outstanding customer service, and also because its employees exemplify her company’s values.

“We hire people who are genuine, honest, trustworthy, clean-cut, and live their life with good ethics and morals,” said Spears. “Most employees are local people who live in our service area, and are very committed to their work and community.”

The company has developed its own training program for employees to become certified in its trade areas. Over 20 employees have successfully completed these programs, receiving numerous industry certifications, and now work as highly skilled tradesmen.

“We’re always looking for eager, hardworking men and women with a good attitude and mechanical aptitude,” Spears says. “We’re successful because we’ve built our business on reputation and trust, which begins by hiring great people.”

Cornerstone phones are answered 24/7, and technicians are available around the clock, including weekends and holidays. Call (813) 990-0561 anytime, day or night. For more information, visit their website at CornerstonePros.com.

Published October 30, 2019

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