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Lutz Guv'na

Alternate fundraiser for Old Lutz School

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The annual Lutz Guv’na campaign has become a casualty of the COVID-19 pandemic and has been canceled.

In lieu of that fundraiser, the Lutz Civic Association is sponsoring an alternative. It is offering Lutz-branded merchandise for sale to benefit the Citizens of the Old Lutz School. All profits will go to the support of the historic Old Lutz School.

This is one of several garden flag designs available for purchase. (Courtesy of Stephanie Ensor)

To view items available for purchase, visit bit.ly/LutzFundraiser.

Those interested can choose from can coozies, baseball-style caps, stickers, magnets, T-shirts (youth, women and men sizes), and garden flags.

Merchandise currently is being printed and first orders will be ready for pickup by June 15. Once the merchandise sells out, there will be a second run to fill orders.

Flags are not due to be in until the end of June or the beginning of July.

Citizens for the Old Lutz School raises money every year to pay for the upkeep of the Old Lutz School, where generations of Lutz children were educated. The money pays for such things as repairing termite damage, replacing windows and other essential maintenance.

The group also hosts popular holiday festivities for the community each year during Christmas season.

Besides losing a share of proceeds from the Lutz Guv’na race, Citizens for the Old Lutz School also suffered a setback in fundraising because of the cancellation of its Spring Market due to concerns about COVID-19.

Anyone who wishes to contribute for the upkeep of the Old Lutz School can donate through the organization’s website, at OldLutzSchool.com.

Published June 10, 2020

Lutz shows off its Fourth of July spirit

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It may be three-quarters of a century old, but the Lutz Fourth of July Parade showed no signs of slowing down last week.

Scores of people came out to this community, north of Tampa, to celebrate the nation’s birthday.

Mohamed Said, of Wesley Chapel, left, and his wife, Shannon, dressed their children — 4-month-old Sophia and 2-year-old Mila — in red, white and blue, to celebrate the nation’s birthday at the Fourth of July festivities in Lutz. (Christine Holtzman)

Runners endured the morning’s humidity, as they completed the 5K and 1-mile races while being cheered by onlookers.

By 8 a.m., pop music blared from the speakers as patrons came out in hordes to visit local vendors, who had set up on the expanse of green across from the Lutz Branch Library.

Vendors were offering everything from homemade jams to burgers to antiques and other goods. There was a place where voters could register, too.

Bubba Lee was there promoting his organic drinks called Bubba’s Earth Juice.

Based in Wesley Chapel, the company promotes good health by offering various drinks made from such ingredients as kale, spinach, cinnamon, ginger and fruits.

Amy Lancaster proudly holds the key to Lutz, after winning the Guv’na title.

“I think it’s good for the body, and I want everybody to try it,” Lee said. “I want to make America healthy again,” he added.

It was his first time at the Lutz event and he was impressed by the atmosphere.

“I plan on coming back,” Lee said. “It seems to be pretty nice, and I like the fact that they’ve got runners here.”

A more familiar vendor, Kona Ice, was present with its truck parked at the corner of U.S. 41 and Lutz Lake Fern Road.

Matt Burnett stood in the truck ready to sell snow cones on this hot summer day.

Kona Ice has been at the parade four times, Burnett said. “Each year, we do better and better.”

The snow cones are a big hit with children and adults, he said. The kids tend to favor the blue-raspberry cones, while the adults like the mango-pina colada combo.

AJ’s Snow Balls, across the field, was popular, too. A long line formed, as patrons stood in sweltering heat awaiting their turn to get their hands on the frozen treats.

Runner Lauren Belbel took refuge in the shade, after finishing the 5K run with her sister.

Korean War Veteran Col. Lester O’ Steen, of Lutz, right, sings ‘God Bless America,’ while he walks with Commandant and Marine 4 Life Chairperson Shawn Piccolo. The Marine veteran was in the Korean War in from 1951-1954.

Belbel said she heard about the upcoming race, and was glad that she and her family — on vacation from Illinois — were able to be at the event.

“It was pretty fun, [a] really good atmosphere to run in,” Belbel said. “Everyone seems really friendly and welcoming.”

In fact, that Lutz welcome was so warm it was enough to make her consider coming back again next year, she said.

While some along the parade route were enjoying the festivities for the first time, there were regulars like David Bellingar, a Lutz resident for over 40 years.

He was happy to share this year’s event with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Over the years, he has watched the parade evolve and witnessed all kinds of parade entries — including belly dancers.

“Every year there’s something different,” Bellingar said, adding he enjoys the vendors.

“I like to see what people bring to sell,” he said, including the antiques.

In his very first official race, 8-year-old Nathaniel Acosta, of New Tampa, right, is seen crossing the finish line of the 1-mile run. His father, Nathan, uses his cellphone to film the moment.

And, he doesn’t mind the attention directed his way, either, as people comment on his signature hat.

It’s hard to miss his brim hat decorated with small toy tractors and animals, as well as dollar bills folded in unique shapes.

He won the hat at a fundraiser in a Lutz Guv’na campaign years ago, and he’s worn it to the parade every year since then.

While spectators took notice of the tiny tractors on Bellingar’s hat, both children and adults were attracted to the life-size antique tractors and automobiles lining the open field near the Lutz Train Depot.

Kids couldn’t wait to check out the tractors, which were brought to the event courtesy of Wayde Lovelace, of Just Tractors company.

The Lutz resident sat to the side watching happy children grab a tractor’s steering wheel — and said he comes to the event mainly for the kids.

Boy Scout Troop 12 once again was involved in the event — arriving early to set up tables and to pitch in, where needed.

“It’s a good feeling knowing that the whole troop can give back to the country, give back to the community,” said scout Sean Monahan. “I’ve been doing it as long as I’ve been in Boy Scouts itself, since I was 11. I even did it with the Cub Scouts, since I was in first grade.”

One of the beautifully decorated cakes featured in the cake contest and auction. This cake, which was titled ‘The Ultimate Lutz Candy Celebration Cake,’ was one of the entries for the Youth 11- to 18-year-old category.

Fellow scout Mason Ritchie added: “I have not missed a single parade. I always like to march in the front of the parade with the American flag.”

And, sure enough, Troop 12 led the parade as the procession made its way down Lutz Lake Fern Road.

There were other regulars in the parade, too, including the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, the Lutz Chiefs, The North Tampa Lutz Cadette Squadron, band players, an antique fire truck and children riding bikes.

Large crowds lined the parade route, chanting and cheering as the parade passed by.

Those passing by in fire engines, pirate ships, military vehicles, jeeps and other vehicles did more than just wave back — they also tossed out candy, beads and toys into the enthusiastic crowd.

While most of the festivities were outdoors, there was a cake contest and auction inside the Lutz Community Center.

Tables were laden with entries.

The winning youth entry was titled “The Ultimate Lutz Candy Celebration Cake” and described as “An explosion of assorted candy that will gush out when cut.”

Other entries were a red-white-and-blue cake shaped like the United States, an orange creamsicle cake, a fudge coconut cake, a vanilla confetti, and a sour cream cake.

Sharon Oliphant, president of the GFWC Florida Woman’s Club, was one of three judges. “You can tell they did a lot of thinking ahead of time before they started decorating,” she said.

Another highlight was the swearing-in ceremony of the new Lutz Guv’na.

The honorary title goes to the person who raises the most money, which goes to help a variety of community causes.

This year’s candidates, Amy Lancaster and Jane Mason, raised a total of $5,562, with Lancaster raising the most.

In true Lutz tradition, she took the oath of office on the Old Lutz Depot stage — donning a Dr. Seuss hat, and receiving a sash and key to the city of Lutz.

Her family joined her on stage.

Lancaster’s efforts to raise funds to help her community and her family joining her on stage were just a couple of signs that Lutz’s time-honored traditions of celebrating Independence Day are still going strong, after 75 years.

Published July 10, 2019

Marilyn Wannamaker leaves a legacy of service

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She was a fixture for years at Independence Day celebrations in Lutz, overseeing the annual Cake Bake Contest.

She was a regular, too,  at the Christmas House at the Old Lutz School, serving up hot chocolate and doling out cookies.

But, those are just a couple of the many, many ways that Marilyn Wannamaker served the community of Lutz.

Marilyn Wannamaker was known for her steadfast service to the community of Lutz, and her kind, caring ways. (Courtesy of Pat Serio)

She was deeply involved in the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, occupying nearly every office, including president for two terms.

She was devoted to helping young girls develop a heart for community work, as well as leadership skills, through her role as adviser to the Little Women of Lutz.

Marilyn Wannamaker’s life was remembered on Feb. 23, during a Memorial Eucharist at St. Clement’s Episcopal Church in Tampa.

During the religious ceremony, she was eulogized by her sons, Mark and Scott Peterson; and by Annette Bellinger, a first vice president of the Woman’s Club, and Jane Mason, current adviser for the Little Women of Lutz. Her son, Mark, also shared some thoughts provided by his wife, Val Peterson.

Bellinger recalls feeling a little bit intimidated when she met Wannamaker, who was president of the woman’s club at the time — and had total command of club protocol.

But, Bellinger said her initial concerns were quickly erased, as she witnessed Wannamaker’s incredible warmth.

Wannamaker paid attention to people, and became aware of not only details in their lives, but in their loved ones’ lives, as well, Bellinger said.

Wannamaker led by example.

“She was always willing to work,” Bellinger said. “Even when she didn’t feel that great, she still turned up.”

Mason, who now works with The Little Women of Lutz, recalled Wannamaker’s passion for that group.

During Wannamaker’s tenure as its advisor, The Little Women of Lutz cooked dinner at the Ronald McDonald House, helped at the Lutz Branch Library, kept a stretch of road clear of trash; and helped a family at Christmas, and performed other acts of community service.

Working with the girls was a source of joy to Wannamaker.

“To me it’s wonderful to watch them grow and develop into wonderful young women,” she told The Laker/Lutz News, in a feature story about the group.

Wannamaker’s sons — Mark and Scott — were unabashed in expressing their affection at her memorial.

“Mom never missed an event,” Mark said. “She graded our homework.

“She was our life coach.

We have so many fond memories of our mom,” he said.

“Our mom volunteered for everything,” Mark added.

Over the years, she was active on the board of the Lutz Volunteer Fire Department, held the honorary title of Lutz Guv’na, was head of the St. Clement’s Altar Guild, and was a Salvation Army bell ringer, among other things.

Mark said her calendar was so crowded that he would have to call her weeks in advance to get a date to take her out to dinner.

He wasn’t complaining: He was proud.

Her son, Scott, said his mom was a good sport.

When he was playing Little League baseball, she’d put on a glove to go outside to play catch with him. And, she stepped up to become the official scorekeeper.

“She had immaculate penmanship,” he marveled.

She encouraged his love of music, even to the point of allowing his bands to practice at their house.

“I don’t know how many times that poor woman had to hear ‘Gloria,’” he said, drawing laughter from the crowd.

Wannamaker enjoyed traveling and had the chance to visit such places as Scotland, Australia and the Far East.

She enjoyed those trips, but she was always happy to return to Lutz, where she spent much of her time and energy working to improve community life.

After the service, her friend Pat Serio, another member of the Woman’s Club, described Wannamaker as “a very, very involved friend, and a dear, caring person.

“Marilyn will definitely leave a large void in my life, as well as in our club and the Lutz community,” Serio said.

Wannamaker was always thinking of others, even to the end, her sons said.

One of her final requests was that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Little Women of Lutz, c/o Lutz Land O’ Lakes Women’s Club, P.O. Box 656, Lutz, Florida 33548-0656.

Published February 27, 2019

Region gears up to celebrate nation’s Independence Day

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If you’re looking for some fun and patriotic ways to celebrate the nation’s birthday, you’ll find lots of options nearby.

The master-planned community of Connerton is hosting its fifth annual “Nation Celebration” on July 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at 21100 Fountain Garden Way in Land O’ Lakes.

Connerton, a master-planned community in Land O’ Lakes, offers a ‘Nation Celebration’ to celebrate America’s birthday. Benedetto’s, a restaurant in Land O’ Lakes, sponsors the fireworks.
(File)

The event will be an old-fashioned neighborhood party, open to the public, featuring a rock wall, free games, a live DJ, live music, food trucks, local crafters, free bounce houses and fireworks presented by Benedetto’s Ristorante Italiano.

Those wishing to be eligible for a chance to win a $250 gift card must register by June 30, at Connerton.com/event-signup.

If you enjoy a down-home Fourth of July parade, along with a flag-raising, a cake-baking competition and kids riding their bikes in the parade — the community of Lutz’s Independence Day festivities will be right up your alley.

Lutz prides itself on its annual event and this year promises to continue the community’s traditions, according to Jennifer Rankin, chairwoman of the festivities.

The day begins with people dropping off their entries for the Cake Bake competition.

Then, there’s the annual 5K which draws hundreds of runners, and the 1-mile Fun Run, a family friendly event.

The 5K starts at 8 a.m., July 4 at the Lutz Community Center, 101 First Ave. N., in Lutz.

In-person registration for the race can be done during regular business hours Monday through Friday, through June 30, at Big Fred’s Automotive Repair, 19301 U.S. 41 North, in Lutz.

On race day, registration is $30 and begins at 6:15 a.m., inside the Lutz Community Center, 101 First Ave., N.

The 5K starts at 8 a.m., July 4 on Lutz-Lake Fern Road, west of the intersection First Avenue.

The 1-mile Fun Run begins at 8:45 a.m.

For more information or to register online, visit tinyurl.com/y9o96scr.

Three-month-old Braylen Moore had a great viewing place for the parade, sitting on her mom’s — Emily Moore of Lutz — lap at the parade.
(File)

Other festivities include a flag-raising ceremony at 9 a.m., led by Boy Scout Troop 12 and members of the North Tampa/Lutz Civil Air Patrol Cadets.

After that, the parade begins at 10 a.m.

After the parade, the honorary Lutz Guv’na is proclaimed, and is sworn in over a copy of Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham.”

This year’s candidates are Kandy Sinquefield of American BellyDance Studio, Jessica Sherman of Pinch A Penny and Domenic DiFante of Panini’s Bar & Grill.

Then, come the “Cake Bake Auction,” which raises money to support local organizations and draws some good-natured bidding, as grandparents, parents and spouses get into friendly bidding wars to bring home their loved one’s baked treat.

Another highlight are the booths and vendors that parade-goers can check out, to find out more about local organizations, or grab a bite to eat.

And, while politicians are always a mainstay in the Lutz parade, there’s usually a greater number during an election year, and Rankin said that’s true this year.

She also noted that it’s not too late to join the parade, but the deadline for applications is July 1. Those interested in joining the parade can call Rankin at (813) 240-5492.

Other area events are planned in Wesley Chapel and at the Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City.

Avalon Park West in Wesley Chapel will host an Independence Day celebration on July 4 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., at its clubhouse, at 5227 Autumn Ridge Drive. There will be an apple pie bake-off, a bike parade, a wet/dry bounce park, community performances, and fireworks at 9 p.m. Admission is free. For more information, call (813) 783-1515.

Meanwhile, the community of Seven Oaks has planned a “Fourth of July Celebration and Cardboard Boat Regatta” on July 4 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Seven Oaks Clubhouse, 2910 Sports Core Circle, in Wesley Chapel

Families can build a two-person cardboard boat, which must be able to race. There will be awards for fastest, best team, most creative, people’s choice, best younger team and the Titanic-best sinking. For information, visit 813Area.com.

Another Fourth of July celebration — Sparklebration 2018 — is planned at Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City.

Festivities will be on July 4 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Highlights include live entertainment, free face painting, and for a nominal charge: a bounce house, pony rides and a petting zoo.

There also will be a watermelon- and hot dog-eating contests, and a karaoke contest.

Fireworks are scheduled for 9:15 p.m., weather permitting.

Gates open at 4 p.m. Parking is $5 per vehicle. Admission is $6 for ages 13 and older. For information, visit PascoCountyFair.com.

Published June 27, 2018

Lutz Guv’na hopefuls face off in amusing debate

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The afternoon was hot and sizzling — and so was the 2018 Lutz Guv’na Debate at the Old Lutz School.

So much so that the May 19 event ended in a tie, a first in the debate’s long history.

Kandy Sinquefield of American BellyDance Studio and returning candidate Jessica Sherman of Pinch A Penny each earned the same number of “votes” (most guests in the audience)— earning a split of a $100 campaign donation from Flip Flop Embroidery Shoppe.

Besides the Guv’na debate, candidates displayed their skills in other competitions, like curling— concocting the best hairstyle on a wig using a curling iron. Returning candidate Jessica Sherman, left, shows off her masterpiece. (Kevin Weiss)

A third candidate, Domenic DiFante of Panini’s Bar & Grill, couldn’t make the debate. He was instead represented by one of his employees, Alex Robertson, who diplomatically threw his full support behind his absent boss.

Said Robertson, “He’s a great man, and I think he will give the community a great service by being your next Guv’na.”

The annual affair isn’t your typical “political” debate.

The candidates were required to ring a bell before answering a series of satirical questions from a few dozen Lutz residents and family members in the crowd.

Other games and fun activities were mixed in throughout the fun-filled afternoon, which was emceed by Paul Vahue of First Baptist Church in Lutz.

Among the most intense “hot button” debate questions: “Are you a liberal or conservative when it comes to pizza toppings, and should there be punishment for ordering pineapple on pizza?”

Sherman advocated for “pizza freedom.”

Sinquefield supported the right to choose any pizza topping, but added, “just don’t ask me to clean up for you when you get sick from eating it.”

Robertson, on behalf of DiFante, took a more hardline approach to the pizza topping issue.

“There’s just a few things in life that just don’t go together,” he said, “and pineapple on pizza is one of them.”

Another “controversial” topic dear to Lutz residents was also broached: “Should Lutz secede from the state of Florida?”

In true political fashion, Robertson avoided the topic entirely, redirecting the conversation to Difante’s “tax plan” and campaign promise of “chicken wings, overstuffed sandwiches and cold beer at every corner of the city.”

To quell other “voters” concerns, Sherman and Sinquefield both said the unincorporated town should remain a part of the Sunshine State.

Said Sherman, “I think Lutz is just fine the way it is. If I win Guv’na, I’m not going to do anything. Everything’s just fine.”

Added Sinquefield: “I don’t think Lutz should secede from the union. If people don’t like what we do in Lutz, then they need to move to Carrollwood…”

Another Lutz-centric debate question that drew wonderment from many — “Which object should be dropped in Lutz on New Year’s Eve?”

Sinquefield mentioned a rhinestone-covered replica of the Lutz Train Depot.

Sherman liked the idea of dropping a giant alligator.

Robertson— trying to appeal to the crowd’s appetites — proposed unloading a 75-foot tall, 1,500-pound “overstuffed” sandwich — a Panini’s staple. “Everybody bring a fork,” he quipped.

In between the many colorful debate questions were a series of “Olympic-type” activities.

Except, they were just slightly different from the real thing.

The “curling” competition required the trio to use a curling iron on a synthetic wig — concocting the best hairstyle possible. Sinquefield reigned supreme in that.

Meantime, the makeshift synchronized swimming event required candidates to shake and wave swim noodles attached to tennis shoes, to mimic the symbiotic motion of legs and feet behind the veil of a blue tarp that served as water.

The routines drew more cackles than points for grace, but each earned a participation prize.

Guv’na candidates also used the debate platform to show off their special talents.

Sherman displayed the same “epic dance moves” from last year, comically resembling those popularized by “Seinfeld” TV series character Elaine Benes, portrayed by Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

Sinquefield, unsurprisingly, shared a belly dance routine.

Robertson conceded the talent show entirely, bowing to Sinquefield’s performance. “There’s nothing I can do that can follow that,” he said modestly.

At the end of the debate, each candidate revealed their official campaign slogan.

Sherman stayed true to last year’s “Keep Lutz Local” slogan.

She explained: “Lutz is a very special community. Ninety percent of our business owners are local, Lutz owned and operated businesses, and it’s super important we keep that family vibe that we don’t have in a lot of places, like Carrollwood.”

Sinquefield’s slogan was more brash: “I don’t want your vote—I want your money!” she said.

Difante’s slogan was “Let’s get overstuffed!”

The meaning was explained in a statement read by Robertson: “I’ve mastered the overstuffed sandwich. Now I want to overstuff your wallets, bank accounts and bellies!”

The whimsical debate was all done in an effort for candidates to drum up as much support as they could, hoping to raise as much money as possible for their “campaigns,” which ultimately go to benefitting several nonprofits and local organizations in Lutz.

The annual Guv’na Race fundraiser continues through the Fourth of July weekend, where the winner is announced, and earns the coveted “sash” and honorary title from the prior year’s winner.

The race started in 1991 and is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association.

It typically raises several thousand dollars for about 20 beneficiaries.

Dignitaries at the event included a handful of former Guv’na winners and candidates, the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, and representatives from the Old Lutz School and the Lutz Civic Association, among others.

Lutz Guv’na candidate upcoming fundraisers

Candidate Domenic DiFante

  • Kill the Keg: May 31 from 11 p.m. to 2:30 a.m., at Panini’s Bar and Grill, 3973 Van Dyke Road in Lutz. There will be music and karaoke, corn hole, jumbo Jenga, jumbo Connect Four, beer pong and more. Wristbands for “Kill the Keg” are $15. For information, call (813) 962-3479.

Candidate Jessica Sherman

Candidate Kandy Sinquefield

  • BellyDance 4 A Cause: June 10 at 2 p.m., at the Sydney Center, 102 Whitaker Road, Lutz. A belly dance show to benefit the Lutz Guv’na race that will feature many styles of belly dance, colorful costumes and uplifting music. Tickets are $15 and available at Kandy4LutzGovna.com or at the door, if available. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.
  • Barbecue and Belly Dancing: June 17 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., at UNION72 Barbecue, 2000 Piazza Ave., Suite 150, in Wesley Chapel. Bring the whole family out to eat at UNION72 and help support Kandy. A portion of the bill will be donated to the Guv’na’s race by the restaurant. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.
  • Miss Lutz Pageant: June 23 at 7 p.m., at the Sydney Center, 102 Whitaker Road, Lutz. Contestants are still needed to show off their talent and an evening gown. Participants must be older than age 18, live in Lutz and be available for the Lutz 4th of July Parade. Tickets are $15. For information, visit Kandy4LutzGovna.com.

Published May 30, 2018

It’s time for the Autumn Market at the Old Lutz School

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Organizers of Autumn Market Day at the Old Lutz School hope that motorists passing by on busy U.S. 41 will decide to stop and shop for awhile.

This year’s Autumn Market Day is set for Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the school grounds at 18819 N. U.S. 41.

The event seeks to raise money for upkeep and improvements at a school that is on the National Register of Historic Places and where generations of Lutz children were educated before it was closed a few decades ago.

The building is considered a community icon and there’s such a strong attachment to it that a group called Citizens for the Old Lutz School

Here’s what the Old Lutz School looked like decades ago — not much different from what it looks like today. (File)

holds occasional fundraisers to preserve the building for future generations.

“We really, really need people from the community to come out and walk the event. You can’t have these things and nobody show up because then you don’t have these special events anymore,” said Suzin Carr, a two-time Lutz Guv’na who has been the lead organizer of the event in recent years, but is transitioning out of that role because she has moved to Citrus Park.

Stefanie Ensor, another former Lutz Guv’na, is the new market coordinator, Carr said, adding that Ensor has done an excellent job of organizing the event.

Ensor said she expects 35 to 40 vendors to be there, offering jewelry, candles, tote bags, vintage gifts, plants, custom handmade wood signs, among other things. Some nonprofit organizations and a politician have also rented out spaces, she said.

“It’s a perfect holiday time to buy gifts and to support local vendors as well as nonprofits,” Carr said. Plus, there will be a bake sale.

Proceeds from the Autumn Market will be used to pay for electricity and building upkeep.

“We’re always up there replanting and weeding and painting and mulching,” said Ensor, a member of the Old Lutz School Board.

The event also includes a micro-irrigation and water conservation class by the Hillsborough County Extension Service, which begins at 10 a.m.

The Old Lutz School Museum also will be open, with some long-time Lutz residents there to talk about Lutz’s early days, and the role the school has played over time.

The old brick building was designed by Frank A. Winn Jr., who also designed the Seminole Heights Methodist Church in Tampa, the Municipal Fishing Pier and Pavilion in Ballast Point Park and Tampa Heights Methodist Church, according to the Citizens for the Old Lutz School’s website.

Originally, the building had four rooms downstairs and a large auditorium upstairs. But within a few years, the auditorium was divided into four rooms, plus a teacher’s room, the website reports.

The site where the old brick school building stands is the same place where Lutz had its first schoolhouse.

That was a one-room frame schoolhouse, built by the North Tampa Land Company in 1910, says an account on the group’s website. Records show that 37 students, first through eighth grade, attended Lutz School in 1912. They were taught by 18-year-old Callie Berry, who was the school’s principal and teacher — earning $39 a day.

Published Oct. 11, 2017

 

 

Building the community, one check at a time

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After the race for the Lutz Guv’na wraps up every year, the money raised is doled out to local groups and causes.

Kori Rankin is the 2017 winner of the Lutz Guv’na’s race and she has the plaque to prove it. She’s shown here with Paul Vahue, emcee of a celebration held to pass out checks from the annual race’s proceeds. (B.C. Manion)

This year the race drew candidates Greg Gilbert of Beef O’ Brady’s Lutz, Jessica Sherman with Pinch A Penny, and Kori Rankin, of Kori Rankin Photography. Ultimately, Rankin won the Guv’na’s sash. Her stepmother, Jennifer Rankin, won the sash in 2015.

The 2017 campaign for the honorary title generated more than $7,000 in contributions and the checks to local groups were handed out in a ceremony on Oct. 3 at the Old Lutz School.

This year’s recipients included the Old Lutz School, the Lutz Chiefs, the Lutz Cemetery, Girl Scout Troop 2717, Boy Scout Troop 12, Books for Troops, the Lutz Patriots, the Little Woman of Lutz, The Lutz/Land O Lakes Women’s Club, Steinbrenner High School Student Ambassadors, and Martinez Middle School, Learning Gate Community School, and the North Tampa/Lutz Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol.

Suzin Carr, a two-time Lutz Guv’na, said the good that the funds help to generate goes beyond sheer dollars.

“All of these little nonprofits, we’re keeping them healthy and whole,” Carr said.

“A candidate gets to decide where 10 percent of their money goes,” she said.

“The Girl Scout Troop, for instance, this year they were recipients of Jessica Sherman’s 10

Paul Vahue hands a check to representative of the North Tampa/Lutz Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol. The group received a portion of this year’s proceeds from the Lutz Guv’na’s race. (B.C. Manion)

percent,” she said.

“That group can also apply for more money,” Carr noted.

“That scout group is going to go for an overnight at NASA. That’s something they could not afford, if this had not happened,” she said.

“You don’t know the impact that that will have, even if it’s just on one of those girls, what their future could be as a result of that trip,” Carr added.

The Civil Air Patrol cadets were there and they talked about their mission, she said. When a disaster hits, they’re among the first people on the ground to analyze what’s needed in an area, she said.

“It’s a tremendous feeling to be able to watch the money come in one hand, and immediately within a matter of a month or two go right back to the community,” Carr said.

The night the funds were being distributed a group from Learning Gate Community School arrived early, Carr said. “They helped set it up.

“This is a night to celebrate them, and here they are setting up tables and chairs, bringing stuff in from the cars to get it ready for everyone else,” she said.

Published Oct. 11, 2017

Area teenager bowls perfect 300 in North Carolina tournament

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Chandler Carr, who got his start bowling at Royal Lanes in Lutz, shot his first sanctioned perfect 300 in the Randy Pedersen 4 Game Sweeper in Shallotte, North Carolina.

He achieved the perfect score on Oct. 7 at Planet Fun, helping him to take fifth place in the competition.

Chandler Carr recently shot a perfect 300, while he was in Shallotte, North Carolina. (Courtesy of Suzin Carr)

Carr — whose mom is Suzin Carr, the only person to win the Lutz Guv’na race twice — has done a substantial amount of volunteer work at the Old Lutz School in Lutz, and in various Lutz activities.

The family moved to Citrus Park in November.

Besides this most recent accomplishment, Carr is one of 25 finalists for the Positive Coaching Alliance-Tampa Bay Chapter “Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship.”

The 17-year-old will be the Athlete of the Week in partnership with Casper’s Company on 860AM radio on Oct. 14.

Carr is a senior at Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate High School. Brooks DeBartolo Collegiate Charter School is the only public school in Hillsborough County which has a bowling team.

Published Oct. 11, 2017

Guv’na incumbent looks to defend ‘sash’

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With three weeks remaining in the Lutz Guv’na race, incumbent candidate Greg Gilbert is looking to defend the ‘sash.’

Gilbert, the managing owner of Beef O’ Brady’s in Lutz, became last year’s honorary mayor of Lutz, raising more than $1,500.

But, with two formidable challengers this year — Jessica Sherman, of Pinch A Penny, and Kori Rankin, of Kori Rankin Photography — winning again won’t likely come easy, he admits.

Gilbert readies to toss a cow patty, during last month’s Lutz Guv’na Debate, at the Old Lutz School. (Kevin Weiss)

“Those girls seem very impressive with being involved with the community, so I don’t feel like I have any advantage over anybody,” Gilbert said. “I think it’s all going to be work, work, work to stay in the race.”

Gilbert and his family moved to Spring Hill in 2013.

Before moving to Florida, he spent 20-plus years in Michigan working as a general manager for both T.G.I. Fridays and Ruby Tuesday.

Though he doesn’t live in Lutz, Gilbert has tried to ingrain himself within the area, since taking over the local restaurant in December 2015.

“I know most of the regulars now; I’ve been out in the community a little bit more,” he said.

Gilbert decided to re-enter the Guv’na race to provide “a challenge” to the other contenders.

“It’s all for fun, so I thought it’d be a fun thing to do,” Gilbert said. “Last year I was afraid to do it, because I am not the public speaker kind of guy, and I had enough fun last year that I thought I’d try again.”

He’s stayed busy on the campaign trail, organizing various donations and raffles.

He also plans to host a classic car show July 1, and designate a percent of restaurant sales to the Guv’na campaign.

While he didn’t win the May 20 Guv’na debate, Gilbert arguably had the top slogan: “Hang up your boots in Lutz.”

Last year’s slogan — “Beef it up at Brady’s” — was equally catchy.

Additionally, many of Gilbert’s platform answers during the tongue-in-cheek event still resonate.

The Guv’na hopeful advocated for a motorcycle ban in Lutz, to make roads safer and less noisy. He, too, endeared himself to the women of Lutz by proposing free massages “at least once a week.”

“The first year I spent a couple days thinking about the things I wanted to say, and then this year it seemed to have come a little bit faster and easier,” Gilbert said of his debate answers.

Greg Gilbert is the incumbent candidate for the annual Lutz Guv’na race. Gilbert is the managing owner of Beef O’ Brady’s, 18421 N. U.S. 41 in Lutz.

When he’s not working or dedicating time to fundraising efforts, the Guv’na incumbent has a passion for brainteasers — he previously described himself as a “crossword and Sudoku junkie.”

No matter the outcome of this year’s Guv’na race, Gilbert is just content to raise money for a good cause.

“I’ll be happy with whoever wins, I really will,” he said.

The Guv’na race continues through the Fourth of July weekend.

The winner will be announced after the community’s traditional parade.

The annual charity event— which started in 1991— is sponsored by the Lutz Civic Association, and benefits about 20 local causes, including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, the Old Lutz School and the Friends of the Library.

More than $100,000 has been raised in the past decade alone.

The winner of the Guv’na race may also earmark 10 percent of what they raise to the organization of their choice.

If you’d like to contribute to Gilbert’s campaign, visit Beef ’O’ Brady’s Lutz, or call (813) 909-2300.

Published June 14, 2017

She’s young, but she wants to be Lutz Guv’na

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Kori Rankin is not only a first-time Lutz Guv’na candidate — she’s easily the youngest at 21 years old.

Her two opponents — Jessica Sherman, of Pinch A Penny, and incumbent Greg Gilbert, of Beef ‘O’ Brady’s Lutz — are more than twice her age.

But, that hasn’t hindered Rankin from holding her own on the campaign trail.

Kori Rankin won a cow-chip throwing contest, during the May 20 Lutz Guv’na Debate at the Old Lutz School. (Kevin Weiss)

During the May 20 Lutz Guv’na Debate at the Old Lutz School, Rankin exhibited confidence and moxie.

She shined in several debate activities, leading the alligator watermelon-carving contest and dominating a cow-chip throwing contest: She launched patties several feet further than her two rivals.

Several of her responses, during the annual tongue-in-cheek event, were memorable, too.

For instance, she advocated for a construction ban in Lutz, and recommended “unlimited wine” for every Lutz woman.

Politicking for Guv’na runs in the family.

Her stepmother, Jennifer Rankin, won the coveted “sash” in 2015 by raising more than $9,200, and she continues to stay involved in the annual Guv’na Race.

Rankin acknowledged her stepmom has provided a helping hand along the way, offering guidance on fundraising and event organization.

“She doesn’t want me to be slacking,” Rankin said of her stepmother.

The month of June will be a busy one.
After a Painting with a Twist event on June 11, Rankin plans to organize a bowling tournament and a dinner night at a local Mexican restaurant.

She also wants to partner with the GFWC Lutz-Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club on a bingo night.

Meanwhile, Rankin is drumming up cash by auctioning LuLaRoe clothing, offering 50/50 raffles, and selling “little things” like candy and drinks.

The Guv’na hopeful currently works full-time at Al’s Lawn Care Products & Services, a local business established in 1986.

She also owns her own photography and portable photo booth company — aptly named Kori Rankin Photography.

Besides mini-sessions, she’s built up a portfolio shooting everything from weddings to newborns, over the last year-and-a-half.

“I pretty much do anything and everything all across the board,” she said.

A long-time Lutz resident, Rankin has lived in the area since she was 10 years old.
She spent her early childhood in Temple Terrace. Then her family moved to Zephyrhills when she was 6, before the family settled into the tight-knit Hillsborough County community.

She —like many residents — enjoy the rustic aspect of Lutz.

“I’ve always kind of loved that it’s in the country, than in the city,” she said. “It’s always nice.”

Rankin attended Martinez Middle School and graduated from Steinbrenner High School in 2013 — the school’s first four-year graduating class.

There, she was a competitive cheerleader and member of the flag football team; she also gave track and weightlifting a shot.

“I was very athletic,” Rankin said, “and tried to play just about every sport possible.”
The Guv’na race continues through the Fourth of July weekend.

The winner will be announced after the community’s traditional parade.

The annual charity event started in 1991. More than $100,000 has been raised in the past decade alone.

The winner of the Guv’na race gets to earmark 10 percent of what he or she raises to the charitable organization of his or her choice.

If Rankin becomes the honorary mayor of Lutz, she hopes to donate to the Lutz Chiefs Youth Football and Cheerleading Organization, a league for boys and girls ages 5 to 14.

“I feel like they don’t really get anything, besides what their parents provide for them,” she said.

If you’d like to contribute to Rankin’s campaign, call (813) 476-3718, or email .

Published June 6, 2017