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Serving Lutz since 1964 and Pasco since 1981.
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Myrtle Lake Baptist Church

Finding creative ways to express faith at Easter

April 7, 2020 By B.C. Manion

Instead of having thousands of members arriving for Easter services at Idlewild Baptist Church, in Lutz, Senior Pastor Ken Whitten expects they’ll be tuning in instead.

The church’s 15,000 members will be able to watch on Vimeo, Facebook or Idlewild.org the services, which will be presented in English and American Sign Language, and translated into Spanish.

First United Methodist Church of Land O’ Lakes will be livestreaming its Easter service. Many churches are using different approaches this year in light of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. (B.C. Manion)

Those presenting the service will be social distancing, Whitten said.

“We’ll be 6 feet apart. From the praise band to the camera people and myself, there’s never any more than 10 people,” he said.

COVID-19 has presented unique challenges, the pastor said.

“In all of my life, I’ve never ever experienced anything like this. We’ve had hurricanes, where we’ve missed two Sundays, but this will be our fourth Sunday doing online church,” Whitten said.

Being unable to connect in person is difficult for people, Whitten said.

“God made us for relationships, and God made us to want to be together.

“So, there’s something inside of us — I think an ache — inside the whole world right now,” he said.

Legally, the church could hold its large gatherings, because despite a Stay-at-Home order issued by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, religious assemblies are deemed an essential service.

“We might by law be able to congregate,” Whitten said. “Here’s the question, ‘Is that even the right thing to do?

Jesus said the two greatest commandments are “to love the lord thy God with all thy heart, mind and strength” and “to love your neighbor as yourself.

“I don’t think you can fulfill that second commandment and be a vector of infection, and bring a disease to people you are saying that you love,” Whitten said.

“The reason we’re not meeting is because we’re trying to do our part.

“Keep in mind, the church is not the only one who has been asked to stand down. We have no sports. We have no NASCAR.

“It doesn’t matter, no matter what you are normally used to, (it) is not there.

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church created a more personal touch for its online services, by asking parishioners to submit photos of themselves, so the officiants can look at them, while saying the Mass. (Courtesy of Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church)

“There’s no Master’s. March Madness didn’t happen. It became March sadness, didn’t it,” Whitten said.

COVID-19 has created a medical and economic crisis.

In the midst of that, Whitten said, “I think the message we need to give people right now is this: Live one day at a time, with trust, trusting that God’s got this. That he hasn’t taken his eye off us. He knows what tomorrow brings.

“The best thing we can do is to continue to put our trust in him and continue to be an encouragement to the people around us that need that trust,” Whitten said.

Others using technology to share Easter services include NorthPointe Church, 19862 Amanda Park Drive; Bay Hope Church, at 17030 Lakeshore Road; St. Timothy Catholic Church, at 17512 Lakeshore Road; and, First Baptist Church of Lutz, 18116 U.S. 41, all in Lutz.

Land O’ Lakes churches using that approach include Land O’ Lakes United Methodist Church, at 6209 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., and Harvester Community Church, 2432 Collier Parkway.

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will be using technology, too, but to make it more personal, the church has placed enlarged photographs of church members on chairs within the church.

Meanwhile, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, at 2018 Reigler Road in Land O’Lakes, will be having Drive-In Church on  April 12 at 10:30 a.m.

Members of Grace Community Church will be celebrating together, while staying apart, in drive-in church services on Easter. (Courtesy of Grace Community Church)

“You will simply drive into our parking lot and tune in on an FM channel (which will be displayed on our slide truck) and worship with us from the comfort of your own car.  We will celebrate communion together with commercially purchased, prepackaged, individual communion elements and collect our offering in free-standing receptacles as you exit the parking lot,” the church’s website says.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the county, Grace Community Church also will be having  drive-in services.

Normally, members would arrive in their Easter finery, celebrate their faith together and pose afterwards for family portraits, said Pastor Jeff Olsen.

But, this year, they’ll drive to the church 7107 Boyette Road in Wesley Chapel, and they’ll stay in their cars — for either the Sunrise service at 7:15 a.m., or the 10:30 a.m. gathering.

Instead of spending a couple of minutes at the beginning of the service greeting each other personally, they’ll take out their cellphones to text or call other members who are there; or reach out to church members who couldn’t make it to the service.

Jessie Koschman and her family, left to right, Jessie, Kaylei, Christopher and Greg, pose for a selfie inside their car. This will be a new twist on a traditional Easter family portrait at Grace Community Church in Wesley Chapel. (Courtesy of Jessie Koschman)

Then, at the conclusion, instead of posing for family portraits, they’ll whip out their cellphones and take family selfies.

Even though the service could be livestreamed, Olsen said he prefers having the congregation there — even if they need to stay in their cars.

“It seems like there’s more that can be done when we’re in a common space,” the pastor said, noting the church has already tried out this model and it seems to be working well.

Olsen said the central message of the sermon he plans to deliver will be something like this: “Because the grave is empty and Jesus is alive, we have living hope — even when things seem hopeless.”

Others are adapting services, as well.

AdventHealth Zephyrhills will have its 35th annual Easter Sunrise Service online, instead of on the hospital’s lawn.

The service will be streamed online on Easter Sunday, April 12 from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., and will be available for replay on the hospital’s Facebook page, according to a hospital news release.

Pastor Dennis Harmeson, of Awake Wesleyan Church, will deliver this year’s sermon and Darling Giordani will provide a musical selection.

The shift to online breaks an East Pasco tradition that dates back for more than three decades.

It was done, according to the hospital, “out of an abundance of caution to protect the safety and well-being of the community due to the spread of COVID-19.

“AdventHealth is committed to caring for the community – body, mind and spirit, as we live out our mission of Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ,” a release says.

At St. Joseph Catholic Church, at 38710 Fifth Ave., in Zephyrhills, videos of Holy Week and Easter services, featuring the Rev. Allan Tupa, will be available on the church’s website.

On that website, the pastor told parishioners, “Your safety and health are my primary concerns as we confront the sobering and unsettling realities of this pandemic.”

He added: “This severe moment that is unfolding throughout the world enables us to see the profound truth underlying the season of Lent: Life is fragile, and our flesh is weak. Yet scripture assures us in Psalm 46 that God is ‘an ever-present help in time of distress.”

The Seventh-day Adventist Church, at 7333 Adventist Church, at 7333 Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, will continue to hold online-only services through April 30.

Published April 08, 2020

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: AdventHealth Zephyrhills, Allan Tupa, Awake Wesleyan Church, Bay Hope Church, Darling Giordani, Dennis Harmeson, Facebook, First Baptist Church of Lutz, Grace Community Church, Harvester Community Church, Idlewild Baptist Church, Jeff Olsen, Ken Whitten, Land O' Lakes United Methodist Church, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, NorthPointe Church, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Ron DeSantis, Seventh-day Adventist Church, St. Joseph Catholic Church, St. Timothy Catholic Church, Stay-at-Home Order, Vimeo

Choices abound for holiday fun

November 27, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

A lit-up tree with stocked presents below is a beautiful sight for both adults and children alike. (File)

The holidays are a traditional time for friends and families to gather, and to seek out ways to enjoy the lights, sounds and treats of the season.

If you’re looking to have some old-fashioned fun, to be inspired, or relax, there’s likely an option in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area to suit your fancy.

Here’s a listing of some of your options.

Lutz – Land O’ Lakes

Traditions on the Green holiday concert
When:
Dec. 7 from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Guests can enjoy live holiday performances from students of Land O’ Lakes High School, Pineview Middle School, Sanders Elementary, Lake Myrtle Elementary and Pineview Dance.
Info: Call (813) 996-3011.

Pancakes, PJ’s and Putt-Putt
When:
Dec. 7 from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.
Where: Plantation Palms Golf Club, 23253 Plantation Palms Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: $12 for age 13 and up; $10 for ages 4 to 12; $43 for family four pack (two adults, two kids); free for those age 3 and under
Details: Enjoy a pancake breakfast while in pajamas. The event also will offer miniature golf, photos with Santa and kids’ activities.
Info: Tickets can be purchased at EventBrite.com (Pancakes, PJ’s and Putt-Putt in search box).

Myrtle Lake Baptist Church Christmas dinner
When:
Dec. 8 from noon to 2 p.m.
Where: Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: The church will hold a special holiday dinner to ring in Christmas.
Info: Call (813) 949-5516, or visit MyrtleLake.org.

Harvester Community Church musicals and service
When:
Dec. 8 at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.; Dec. 15 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.; Dec. 24 at 4 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Where: Harvester Community Church, 2432 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Dec. 8 will consist of holiday tunes put on by the church’s choir and contemporary ensemble. Dec. 15 will be an outdoor event where guests can partake in carols and firepits, accompanied with hot cocoa. The Dec. 24, 4 p.m. service, will be a family oriented service in the sanctuary and offer a “Happy Birthday, Jesus” party in the children’s wing. The 6 p.m. service will have a candlelit rendition of “Silent Night.”
Info: Call (813) 948-2311, or visit HarvesterUMC.com.

St. Timothy Catholic Church’s “Christmas in Ireland”
When:
Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.
Where: St. Timothy Catholic Church, 17512 Lakeshore Road, Lutz
Cost: $35 general admission; $50 (including meet-and-greet, which starts at 5:30 p.m.) Tickets can be purchased online or at the church office.
Details: Singer Emmet Cahill and the St. Timothy Choir will grace attendees with a rendition of classic Christmas carols. A portion of proceeds will go toward families in need.
Info: Call (828) 553-8553, or for ticket purchases, visit EmmetCahill.com/tour-dates/.

23rd Annual Christmas at the Old Lutz School
When:
Dec.10, Dec. 12, Dec. 14, Dec. 17, Dec. 19, Dec. 20, Dec. 21, Dec. 26 and Dec. 27, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free
Details: Guests can enjoy entertainment in the outdoor tent, while the school’s interior will offer rooms with trees, decorations and a train setup. Refreshments also will be served. Breakfast With Santa will be on Dec. 14 from 8:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. For a $4 ticket, children can enjoy a hearty meal and crafts. Voluntary donations for the needy also will be collected.
Info: Call (813) 310-8709, or visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Idlewild Baptist Church’s Christmas “Real to Real”
When:
Dec. 13 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 14 from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 15 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., Lutz
Cost: Seating selection varies from $10, $15 and $20.
Details: The church function will recap the history of Christmas, as seen in classic movies.
Info: Call (813) 264-8707. Tickets can be purchased at the church’s event registration desk on Sundays and Wednesdays or at Idlewild.org/Christmas-presentation-tickets/.

Christmas Toy Drive
When:
Dec. 14 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Kids Helping Kids Pasco County Inc., will host the toy drive, where all are invited to contribute a donation. Aside from toys, clothing and shoes will be collected, as well.
Info: Call (813) 957-5711.

Keystone Community Church’s “Breath of Heaven”
When:
Dec. 15 at 10:30 a.m.
Where: Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54, Lutz
Cost: Free
Details: The event will be a biblical drama and musical, reenacting the story of Mary and Joseph that led to Jesus’ birth.
Info: Call (813) 948-4522.

Christmas Eve Communion Service
When: Dec. 24 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road, Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: The public is welcomed to partake in a traditional communion service on the night before Christmas.
Info: Call (813) 949-5516, or visit MyrtleLake.org.

Lutz, Odessa, San Antonio, St. Petersburg and Palm Harbor

Tampa Bay Tour de Clay
When:
Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and San Antonio Pottery exclusively from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where:
Wellman & Welsch Pottery, 17202 Whirley Road, Lutz
San Antonio Pottery, 11903 Curley St., San Antonio
Hidden Lake Pottery, 16705 Hutchison Road, Odessa
Schiemann Studio, 4635 Eighth Ave., St. Petersburg
Pottery Boys Studio, 30 Bogie Lane, Palm Harbor
Cost: Free
Details: The event will grant guests to tour the respective pottery studios, speak with potters, watch demos and purchase ceramic art.
Info: Call (407) 694-9622, or visit Tampa-Tour.SquareSpace.com.

Symphony in Lights
When:
Through Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: With a lit Christmas tree, patrons can enjoy live music, and a visit from Santa Claus, among other spectacles. Various shops and restaurants are open, too.
Info: Contact Deborah Detweiler at (813) 994-4010 or .

Wesley Chapel

Family Pictures with Santa & Mrs. Claus
When:
Dec. 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m.
Where: Cypress Creek Church, 5585 E. County Line Road, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: Guests will not only get to take snapshots with Santa and Mrs. Claus, but also engage in ornament making. Kids also will have classes designated for them.
Info: Call (813) 909-4080, or visit CypressCreekChurch.org.

Avalon Aglow
When:
Dec. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Where: Avalon Park West Community Center, 5227 Autumn Ridge Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: Guests can enjoy live performances, food trucks, vendors, and take a picture with Santa.
Info: Call (813) 783-1515, or visit AvalonParkWest.com/AvalonAglow2019/.

Christmas in the Park
When:
Dec. 21 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Wesley Chapel District Park, 7727 Boyette Road, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: Guests are welcomed to the park for a night of singing carols and enjoying s’mores.
Info: Call (813) 602-1104.

Symphony in Lights
When:
Through Dec. 31 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: With a lit Christmas tree, patrons can enjoy live music, and a visit from Santa Claus, among other spectacles. Various shops and restaurants are open, too.
Info: Contact Deborah Detweiler at (813) 994-4010 or .

Zephyrhills

Christmas Tree Lighting
When:
Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: Attendees can help to usher in the Christmas season with the official tree lighting in downtown Zephyrhills.
Info: Call (813) 780-1414, or visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org.

Festival of Lights
When:
Dec. 7 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills, 38537 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The event will be comprised of live musical entertainment, food, multiple vendors and free photos with Santa.
Info: Visit MainStreetZephyrhills.org/Festival-of-Lights/.

35th Annual Tree Lighting Celebration
When:
Dec. 8 from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.; 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: AdventHealth Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: From 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., the hospital will have a visit from Santa, bounce houses and a Christmas-oriented picture booth. From 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., there will be several musical performances. It will be followed by lighting 53 Christmas trees and setting off fireworks.
Info: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 787-2082.

Dade City

Dade City Christmas Parade
When:
Dec. 6 at 7 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Dade City on Seventh Street, Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Spectators can view the parade consisting of decorated floats, dancers, marching bands and Santa Claus.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769, or visit DadeCityChamber.org/Christmas-Parade.

Country Christmas & Vintage Market
When:
Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 per adult, $5 per student, and free for those age 5 and under; $5 adult admission in exchange for an unwrapped stocking stuffer donation toward senior citizens.
Details: In addition to visiting the historic museum, patrons can visit an array of vendors for holiday gifts. There also will be live performances, kids’ activities and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Info: Call Brenda Minton at (352) 206-8889.

34th Annual Country Christmas Stroll
When:
Dec. 7 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City, Seventh Street and Meridian Avenue, Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Attendees can sing carols while visiting numerous downtown restaurants and shops. Santa Claus also will make a special appearance.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769.

Dade City Symphony Holiday Concert
When:
Dec. 14 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pasco Middle School Auditorium, 13925 14th St., Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: The public is welcomed to hear live instrumentation to usher in the Christmas season.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769, or visit DadeCitySymphony.com.

Church Street Christmas
When:
Dec. 21, Dec. 22 and Dec. 23, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Church Avenue in Dade City (the road will be closed off at 6 p.m.)
Cost: Free
Details: Attendees can stroll down Church Avenue, gazing at decorated homes, Christmas cards, and listen to live music from local churches and musicians.
Info: Visit ChurchStreetChristmas.org.

New Year’s Eve at the Speakeasy
When:
Dec. 31 at 8 p.m.
Where: GFWC Dade City Woman’s Club, 37922 Palm Ave., Dade City
Cost: $75 per ticket
Details: The 1920s-themed charity event will give attendees the opportunity to come dressed in gangster and flapper attire. The function will have an array of options from food, an open bar, a silent auction, dancing, casino games and prizes.
Info: Call the Dade City Woman’s Club at (352) 521-0766. To purchase tickets, visit EventBrite.com.

San Antonio

Christmas in the Park
When:
Dec. 8 at 7 p.m.
Where: San Antonio City Park, 32819 Pennsylvania Ave., San Antonio
Cost: Free admission; Raffle tickets can be purchased at the event for $1 each or $5 for six.
Details: The function will consist of the Christmas cards lighting, live performances and a gift basket drawing, with raffle tickets. Refreshments and coffee will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring folding chairs and flashlights.
Info: Call Donna Stewart at (352) 588-3631.

St. Leo

A Saint Leo Christmas
When:
Dec. 3 and Dec. 4 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Saint Leo University’s Black Box Theatre, 33701 State Road 52, St. Leo
Cost: Free, but an RSVP is required.
Details: The concert will have a score of musical performances, and offer cider, cookies and hot chocolate. Handmade ornaments can be purchased by adults and given free for children. Guests are encouraged to arrive 15 minutes prior to concert.
Info: To RSVP seats, call (352) 588-8401, or email .

Published November 27, 2019

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: AdventHealth Zephyrhills, Avalon Aglow, Avalon Park West, Church Street Christmas, Country Christmas Stroll, Cypress Creek Church, Dade City, Dade City Symphony, GFWC Dade City Woman's Club, Harvester Community Church, Idlewild Baptist Church, Keystone Community Church, Land o' Lake Heritage Park, Land O' Lakes, Lutz, Main Street Zephyrhills, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Old Lutz School, Pasco Middle School, Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, Plantation Palms Golf Club, Saint Leo University, San Antonio, San Antonio City Park, St. Leo, St. Timothy Catholic Church, Symphony in Lights, Tampa Tour De Clay, The Shops at Wiregrass, Traditions on the Green, Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel District Park, Zephyrhills

Celebrating a decade of helping mothers-to-be

September 11, 2019 By Brian Fernandes

When Peter Castellani lost his corporate position at IBM, little did he know that his journey would lead him to open a safe haven for expecting mothers.

Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers is that organization, providing women with free services, including pregnancy testing and baby supplies.

Cherisse Rivera is director of Oasis Pregnancy Care Center’s Land O’ Lakes branch. Here, she’s shuffling through baby attire in the Baby Boutique room – where mothers can pick out needed items. (Brian Fernandes)

This year marks the nonprofit’s 10th anniversary in serving Tampa Bay, and it wants the community to join the celebration.

To commemorate its decade of operations, the agency is hosting a fundraiser at Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, on Sept. 19.

The pregnancy care organization may be celebrating a milestone anniversary, but Castellani was an advocate for prenatal assistance long before Oasis opened on Oct. 1, 2009.

“I’ve been involved in the pregnancy care center movement for 20 years,” the executive director said.

He and his wife, Ellen, were church liaisons who were actively involved with Walk for Life and other pro-life organizations back in New York.

When the couple moved to Florida in 1999, they continued their support at A Woman’s Place Medical Clinic, where Castellani served on the board.

Then, he began serving the Pregnancy Care Center of Zephyrhills, eventually becoming president.

When Castellani was laid off after a 30-year career at IBM, it seemed like a sudden shift for the worst — until he realized it was an opportunity to expand his ministry.

He distinctly recalls that several days after his layoff, while still reeling with grief, he awoke to experience what he describes as a clear directive from God.

His new objective became a quest to build a pregnancy center in Land O’ Lakes, close to the high schools.

“Tears just started running down my face, because I never had a direct vision like that before,” said Castellani, who is Christian.

Coincidentally — or maybe not — the first Oasis branch opened nine months later, in Land O’ Lakes.

The center was opened with the support of Pastor Elbert Nasworthy, his Myrtle Lake Baptist Church and the community, Castellani said.

David Dorsey, left, Peter Castellani, April Beck, Cherisse Rivera and Helen Rairigh are among staff and volunteers who operate Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers. The nonprofit organization strives to help women as they transition into motherhood.

Now, Oasis has locations in Wesley Chapel and Tampa. It has 15 staff members and over 80 volunteers.

It also has helped thousands of families through the years, including 450 during the first seven months of this year, according to Castellani.

He attributes the organization’s success to its cohesive work team, that is both business- and ministry-oriented.

The women who come to the centers can receive various types of assistance. The information they provide remains confidential.

They can undergo testing to confirm if they’re pregnant.

Ultrasound screenings are available to let expecting mothers check on their baby’s status.

Counseling sessions are available, too.

The women and their partners also can watch educational videos that provide pointers on parenting techniques.

Dealing with an unplanned pregnancy can be difficult for many women.

“You have women that come in and they are totally devastated,” Castellani said. “Counseling with them for a couple hours, you see a miraculous change. They leave here with hope and a future.”

Oasis’ services are provided for free.

Although, as women continue receiving Oasis services, they are granted coupons, which they can exchange for supplies in the Baby Boutique room. This transaction encourages the women to remain in the program.

Castellani reasoned: “It gives them dignity and respect. Even though it’s free, they’re earning it. It’s not just a hand-away.”

At the Baby Boutique, an array of items can be found, such as diapers, maternity and infant clothing, and portable baby seats – to name a few.

Oasis is able to provide its services and provide giveaways because of funding it receives from local churches, businesses and the state.

The organization also hosts three annual fundraisers: a clay shoot event, a golf tournament and a banquet.

As a Christian, nondenominational establishment, Oasis encourages mothers to see their pregnancies through to birth. They also refer them to local churches as  additional support networks.

The organization helps mothers from various age groups, too.

Castellani dispelled a common stereotype: “It’s not always teenagers – that’s only about 20 percent. Most of our women that come in are college and career-aged women.”

And, for those who may face financial difficulties, Oasis helps them sign up for government assistance, such as the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program and Medicaid.

One of Oasis’ future endeavors is to bring more education to Pasco County schools, encouraging students to remain abstinent until marriage.

The fundraising celebration at Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., will help propel these initiatives forward.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by live performances, catered food by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, and guest speaker RV Brown.

While there are no costs to attend the event, the organization is encouraging those present, to offer a generous donation to support the cause.

Those planning to attend are asked to R.S.V.P at bit.ly/OasisCelebration2019.

To volunteer or donate to Oasis, visit HeartsForOasis.org.

For additional information or services about Oasis, call (813) 406-4965, or visit OasisPregnancyCenter.org.

Oasis 10th anniversary fundraiser
Where: Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., in Lutz
When: Sept. 19; doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: To celebrate 10 years of service, Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers will host a fundraising event with radio personality Mason Dixon as the emcee. Evangelist RV Brown will be the night’s guest speaker and attendees can enjoy a dish catered by Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
Info: Attendees are encouraged to RSVP online at bit.ly/OasisCelebration2019. Online donations can be sent through HeartsForOasis.org, and for further information, call (813) 406-4965.

Published September 11, 2019

Filed Under: Land O' Lakes News, Local News Tagged With: A Woman's Place Medical Clinic, Carrabba's Italian Grill, Elbert Nasworthy, Exciting Idlewild Boulevard, Idlewild Baptist Church, Medicaid, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Oasis Pregnancy Care Centers, Peter Castellani, Pregnancy Care Center, RV Brown, Walk for Life, WIC

Shaping a vision for transportation in Pasco

August 9, 2017 By Kathy Steele

The next phase in a transportation vision for Tampa Bay took a local turn into Pasco County.

More than 30 residents from Pasco and Hernando counties met on Aug. 3 as a “working group” tasked with recommending future transportation decisions. The Florida Department of Transportation hosted the event at the Myrtle Lake Baptist Church in Land O’ Lakes.

Ed McKinney, planning and environmental administrator for the Florida Department of Transportation’s District 7 office, in Tampa, met with more than 30 residents from Pasco and Hernando counties to talk about Tampa Bay Next. The initiative seeks to develop a transportation plan for Interstate 275. (Richard Riley)

The Community Working Group session was open to the public. It is one in a series of meetings in the Tampa Bay region as part of the Tampa Bay Next initiative. A regional meeting in Tampa kicked off the new initiative in May.

There are six working groups in total, representing geographic areas of the region.

Tampa Bay Next replaces the controversial Tampa Bay Express project that would have built new toll and express lanes along about 90 miles of Interstate 275, from Manatee County to Pasco County.

One segment of the project remains.

The state transportation department plans to build a replacement bridge for the Howard Franklin bridge, which links Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.

That bridge replacement will include four multipurpose lanes and two express lanes.

But, the state roads department wants public input during the next two years for a new road project on I-275. The goal is to have plans ready by 2019.

Based on reactions to Tampa Bay Express, residents are tired of focusing only on car-driven road projects, said Ed McKinney, planning and environmental administrator for FDOT’s District 7 office, in Tampa.

New Port Richey resident Kelly Miller talks about priorities for Tampa Bay Next. Miller participated on one of five teams that held break-out sessions to come up with recommendations on transportation needs along Interstate 275, and in Pasco County.

Tampa Bay Next is meant to start conversations.

“We’re not going to show you any projects,” McKinney said. “We’re not going to show you any plans…We hear over and over we need to be thinking differently. People who say that are absolutely right,” he said.

Some of the trouble spots already identified in Pasco include the State Road 56 interchange on Interstate 75, the east/west corridor of State Road 54 and State Road 56, the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41, and the lack of transit options.

At the working group sessions, people divided into five teams that prioritized transportation needs. They also made organizational decisions for future meetings.

As a group, they voted on priorities, based on a compiled list of recommendations from every team.

Top priorities included:

  • Adding light rail, possibly on U.S. 301 and the State Road 56 extension, and more bus service to destinations and high traffic areas
  • Converting CSX rail lines for passenger service
  • Providing Bus Rapid Transit, or BRT, to serve the area

The session also produced a longer list of traffic problems people want addressed.

Requests and complaints included:

  • I-75 and State Road 56 – fix it
  • I-75 and Overpass Road – do it
  • State Road 54 and U.S. 41 intersection – fix it
  • Put multi-use trail on one side of State Road 56 extension and let it meander
  • More park and ride facilities
  • Extend Tower Road to State Road 589 and widen U.S. 41 – Yay Bexley!
  • Most of east Pasco is shoved onto I-75
  • Too many (development) entitlements on State Road 54
  • Plan for more recreational and bicycle trails

Once priorities were decided, Land O’ Lakes resident Jack George posed a question during public comment.

“What is the end game here? What is the objective?” he said. “I haven’t heard that tonight and, without a goal, I don’t know how to get there.”

McKinney said the state department of transportation planned a series of video “primers” to provide information on a broad range of topics, including how projects get funded. The primers hopefully will educate people on issues such as how projects are developed and funded, and allow for “longer conversations.”

The videos will be posted online, McKinney said.

David West, left, and Judy Geiger discuss a transportation vision for Interstate 275, and Pasco County, at a public meeting hosted by the Florida Department of Transportation.

Tampa Bay Next isn’t the only transportation initiative in Pasco.

Kris Hughes, the county’s planning and development director, offered perspective on some ongoing efforts.

For example, vision planning for State Road 54 and State Road 56 is entering a second phase, with a public meeting on Aug. 24 at 5:30 p.m., at the Pasco Utilities Administration Building, off U.S. 41.

The county is partnering in that effort, while also completing a separate planning study in the area.

Hughes also noted that new technology, including driverless cars, will be part of new development in the Connected City corridor in northeast Pasco.

“This is a very complex, very intricate system of efforts,” Hughes said.

Published August 9, 2017

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Community Working Group, Connected City, Ed McKinney, Florida Department of Transportation, Howard Franklin Bridge, Interstate 275, Interstate 75, Jack George, Kris Hughes, Land O' Lakes, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Overpass Road, Pasco Utilities, State Road 54, State Road 56, State Road 589, Tampa Bay Express, Tampa Bay Next, Tower Road, U.S. 301, U.S. 41

Election Day brings out voter passions

November 16, 2016 By Kathy Steele

The line of voters stretched down the sidewalk at The Groves in Land O’ Lakes, as people waited patiently for the doors to open at 7 a.m.

Even after voting began, the line continued to swell.

Long lines also formed at Lexington Oaks, off Wesley Chapel Boulevard.

By 9 a.m., the line in Lexington Oaks was gone, replaced by a late morning trickle of people coming and going.

Wesley Chapel resident Dashawn Williams, who voted at Lexington Oaks, said lines during early voting had been much longer.

On Nov. 8, he said he was done in about 5 minutes. “It was easy,” he said.

Meanwhile, at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, off Collier Parkway, U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis stopped by in his tour bus.

He began his rounds in Dade City and planned to make 19 stops.

“It’s a good opportunity to thank the volunteers,” Bilirakis said.

Here’s a synopsis of what some voters had to say on Election Day 2016.

James Beverly, Wesley Chapel
James Beverly said he lives in a neighborhood that’s apparently filled with Donald J. Trump supporters.
Beverly, however, is not one of them.
“The man is a complete idiot,” Beverly said. “He’s a joke.”
He’s worried about what happens after the election. “It scares me,” Beverly said.
The election of Hillary Rodham Clinton as the nation’s first woman president, on the other hand, would be historic.
“It will bring world peace and harmony,” Beverly said. “It would make the world stop looking at us like a joke, like at SNL (Saturday Night Live).”

Jim Beidler, Land O’ Lakes
Jim Beidler, a Navy veteran from Land O’ Lakes, supported Donald J. Trump.
“I don’t like her lies and her attitude toward Benghazi. That is wrong,” he said of Clinton.
Beidler thinks more highly of Trump’s running mate, Mike Pence, than he does of Trump.
“He’s more well-rounded,” Beidler said. “He has a filter. He’s not throwing words out.”

Lori Wright, Land O’ Lakes
Lori Wright, of Land O’ Lakes, said Hillary Rodham Clinton would be dangerous as president.
“I don’t think she has the best interests of the American people at heart,” she said. “She put us in danger with her lazy handling of information. And, she allowed men in Benghazi to die.”
But, she also said she would accept the election’s outcome.
“I believe God will put whomever He wants in office,” she said.
On the other hand, she added, “I’m here doing my part.”

Melina and Adam Mays, Land O’ Lakes
Melina and Adam Mays looked to their faith to inform their presidential decision.
They cast votes for Donald J. Trump and Mike Pence at The Groves. The couple was joined by their children, Kaelyn, 4, and Wyatt, 2.
“We’ve been praying a lot about it. I’m very pro-life and Catholic,” Melina Mays said.
The couple was troubled by the ugliness of the election.
“We’re tired of the commercials. It’s been a rough campaign,” Adam Mays said.

Sherri Maged
Sherri Maged

Sherri Maged, Land O’ Lakes
Sherri Maged said she came out to vote at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center to fulfill her civic duty.
She voted for Donald J. Trump, but wasn’t enthused about Trump or Hillary Rodham Clinton.
“This was very difficult. I don’t like either one of them,” Naged said, adding she has never felt as conflicted about an election as she did this year.

Jamie Nevitt
Jamie Nevitt

Jamie Nevitt, Land O’ Lakes
Jamie Levitt, 34, of Land O’ Lakes, said she voted for Hillary Rodham Clinton.
“I feel like they both have a lot of issues,” she said, a sentiment she believes was shared by most voters.
Still, she thought Clinton was the superior candidate.
“We all have to kind of decide who we think would do best for the country, even though the choices are not spectacular,” said Nevitt, who gave her dad a ride to the Lutz Community Center on Election Day, so he could vote.

Deb Goldman
Deb Goldman

Deb Goldman, Lutz
Deb Goldman came to the Lutz Community Center three times on Election Day.
“I teach Jazzercise. I taught a class at 5:45 this morning, and at 7, the line was out the building. So, I went home. I came back at 8:10 and there were still more cars than this in the parking lot. So, I go do my class (at 8:30). So, I came back. This time, no lines, no waiting.
“I supported Donald Trump. I thought he was the better candidate.”

Jill Weber, Zephyrhills
Jill Weber, 67, who voted at the Alice Hall Community Center in Zephyrhills, had issues with Amendment 2, the Florida Medical Marijuana Legalization Initiative.
“I think they need to rewrite that,” she said. “I am for medical marijuana, but they write other things in there that makes it not good.
“I don’t want kids being able to go into these quick gas stations and buying Spice (synthetic marijuana).”
Weber added that marijuana “should be sold at a doctor’s office” and shouldn’t be legalized for recreational usage, which she thinks will increase crime.
“Somebody’s got to look at it with some common sense,” she said.
Weber said she voted for Trump based on his economic plans.

Laker/Lutz News staff writers B.C. Manion and Kevin Weiss contributed to this report.

Published November 16, 2016

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: Adam Mays, Alice Hall Community Center, Collier Parkway, Dade City, Dashawn Williams, Deb Goldman, Donald J. Trump, Gus Bilirakis, Hillary Clinton, James Beverly, Jamie Nevitt, Jill Weber, Jim Beidler, Land O' Lakes, Land O' Lakes Community Center, Lexington Oaks, Lori Wright, Lutz Community Center, Melina Mays, Mike Pence, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Sherri Maged, The Groves, Wesley Chapel, Wesley Chapel Boulevard, Zephyrhills

No easy fix for local traffic jams

December 16, 2015 By Kathy Steele

An elevated toll road flying over U.S. 41 could split the community and shut down some longstanding Land O’ Lakes businesses, according to area business owners who spoke at a public hearing about redesigning the intersection at State Road 54 and U.S. 41.

Residents studied maps, and asked questions of state highway representatives, at a public hearing on ways to ease traffic congestion at State Road 54 and U.S. 41. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)
Residents studied maps, and asked questions of state highway representatives, at a public hearing on ways to ease traffic congestion at State Road 54 and U.S. 41.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

They told representatives of the Florida Department of Transportation that a “no build” option is the best choice, at least for now. Several suggested that a by-pass to direct traffic around the intersection would work better than an elevated State Road 54.

More than 100 people took part in the public hearing on Dec. 10 at the Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, off State Road 54.

Those attending could see exhibits of proposed road construction, could watch a video and could offer public comment.

“We are not against development, but development should not be done for one group at the expense of so many others,” said Elayne Bassinger, president of the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce.

Bassinger renewed an earlier request for the state transportation department to schedule workshops to permit a more in-depth discussion of the issues for residents and business owners.

While some favor a no-build option, others want solutions for an intersection that often is described as being “a nightmare.”

About 99,000 vehicles per day cruise through the intersection, according to state data. By 2040, state highway officials predict that to more than double — with an estimated daily count of 208,000 vehicles.

John Spear moved into a subdivision off State Road 54 in 2010.

He said he and his wife often sit in traffic for five minutes or more.

When they first arrived in Land O’ Lakes, he said, “Traffic used to be light. Now the lanes are full. I’m appreciative of something like this being done. It looks like a lot of thought has gone into this.”

Kirk Bogen, with the Florida Department of Transportation, addressed more than 100 people at a public hearing, at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church.
Kirk Bogen, with the Florida Department of Transportation, addressed more than 100 people at a public hearing, at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church.

Stephen Riddell, a Canadian snowbird, recently returned from Ontario. “In the last six months traffic has increased tremendously,” he said. “I think improvements are needed. I don’t know which alternative yet.”

But, some think an elevated roadway would essentially be a wall, separating Land O’ Lakes and Lutz.

They said the purpose of the new interchange seemed to offer more benefits to motorists from other counties, including Pinellas.

“The Land O’ Lakes community deserves to be more than a high-speed avenue carrying cars east and west through our community,” said Ann Childers. “No build, that’s the only thing I could vote for as a resident in good conscience.”

The state department of transportation is conducting a study to evaluate the project before settling on the design and type of improvements for the intersection. The completion date for the study is spring 2016.

About $3.4 million is available for design work. However, no money is budgeted to purchase rights of way, or for construction.

Improvements to the intersection are among Pasco County’s 2015 list of top 10 traffic priorities.

Two construction alternatives would elevate State Road 54 over U.S. 41, and both would have toll lanes. A no-build option is possible, too.

One proposal for the State Road 54 flyover would cost about $160 million. That would require about 70 acres in rights of way. About 24 businesses could be relocated based on loss of property, according to state transportation data.

The new intersection would have four through lanes on U.S. 41 in each direction, two through lanes at-grade and two elevated lanes on State Road 54.

The more expensive alternative would cost about $180 million, and would require about 30 acres in rights of way. No additional lanes would be added to U.S. 41, and turn lanes would not change. There would be two through lanes at-grade and two elevated through lanes, again on State Road 54.

Under this option, six businesses could potentially be relocated including Russell Adams Realty, MCOR Automotive, Pinch a Penny, Hungry Howie’s Pizza, McDonald’s, 7-Eleven and CVS Pharmacy.

Keystone Community Church also could be in the pathway of construction.

The hearing was intended to gather input from the public, and that will be considered before a decision is made, said Kirk Bogen, environmental management engineer for FDOT in District Seven.

“They are both viable alternatives,” he said. “We’re coordinating with county planners.”

Bogen said the no-build alternative also remains an option.

Meanwhile, property owners say they are in limbo.

“It’s the waiting game until they decide,” said Russell Adams, owner of Russell Adams Realty on U.S. 41. “You can’t build more, and it’s hard to sell.”

Adams said he can see that something has to be done, but said poor planning has been the problem.

Thousands of homes in new subdivisions have been approved over the years, and he said, “They know when you plan homes, you’ll have 2.5 cars (per home).”

Trinna Van Nostrand’s family has owned a bar on U.S. 41 since the mid-1970s. It was known as Sam’s Place when her father operated it, and mostly recently as Rock Harley Saloon.

Like many business owners, Van Nostrand said the previous widening of U.S. 41 chopped off part of her property. The bar now sits a few feet off the road.

The new road project could chop off even more land.

“If they are going to take my building, I don’t want to spend a lot of money on it,” she said. “I’m fortunate to have enough in the back to move back, but being in limbo, I can’t do anything.”

Published December 16, 2015

 

Filed Under: Top Story Tagged With: 7-Eleven, Ann Childers, Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, CVS Pharmacy, Elayne Bassinger, Florida Department of Transportation, Hungry Howie’s Pizza, John Spear, Keystone Community Church, Kirk Bogen, Land O' Lakes, McDonald's, MCOR Automotive, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Pinch A Penny, Rock Harley Saloon, Russell Adams, Russell Adams Realty, State Road 54, Stephen Riddell, Trinna Van Nostrand, U.S. 41

Overpass at State Road 54 and U.S. 41?

December 2, 2015 By Kathy Steele

The Florida Department of Transportation is hosting a meeting to gather public comments on a proposed overpass at the intersection of U.S. 41 and State Road 54.

The event, which includes an open house and formal presentation, will be on Dec. 10 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., at Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, at 2017 Riegler Road in Land O’ Lakes.

The presentation will be made at 6:30 p.m. The state is seeking public comment on two recommended options to address traffic problems at the intersection.

Traffic zips and rumbles through the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41. A proposal to improve the intersection could affect area businesses including Tibbetts Lumber Co., seen in the left background. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)
Traffic zips and rumbles through the intersection of State Road 54 and U.S. 41. A proposal to improve the intersection could affect area businesses including Tibbetts Lumber Co., seen in the left background.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photo)

Both options would elevate State Road 54 over U.S. 41, and would require relocating some businesses and purchasing land for the project.

Businesses that could be in the path of the roadwork include Tibbetts Lumber Co., the CVS pharmacy, MCOR Automotive, a discount mattress shop, and Pinch A Penny patio and pool supply shop.

The state department of transportation is conducting a study to evaluate the project before settling on the design and type of improvements for the intersection. The study’s completion date is spring 2016.

Area business owners and the Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce had hoped for additional opportunities to discuss the matter.

On Oct. 30, the chamber sent a letter to the state agency requesting a public workshop. Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore also brought up the request at a Nov. 12 meeting of the county’s Metropolitan Planning Organization.

State transportation officials were at that meeting to present the 2015 priority list for county road projects.

However, they said the public hearing is the only meeting on the schedule.

“Sometimes with workshops you have more time to discuss an issue than at a public hearing,” said Elayne Bassinger, president of the Central Pasco Chamber. And, area business owners, she said, “want an opportunity to speak.”

No one doubts that improvements are needed at the heavily travelled intersection.

According to the state transportation department, the intersection’s crash rate is higher than the state average.

About 99,000 vehicles per day travel through the intersection, but by 2040, state highway officials predict an estimated 208,000 vehicles per day.

Both highways are part of the county’s evacuation route, and they also are regional roadways for trucks that deliver goods to and from Tampa International Airport, Port Tampa Bay and Port Manatee.

One alternative would cost about $160 million in total, including about $91 million for more than 70 acres of rights of way. More than 40 parcels, including existing businesses at the intersection, would be affected. About 24 businesses could be relocated, according to state transportation data.

The new interchange would provide four through lanes on U.S. 41 in each direction, two through lanes at-grade and two elevated lanes on State Road 54.

The other alternative would cost about $180 million in total, including about $50 million for nearly 30 acres of rights of way. About 20 parcels would be involved, but only six businesses would be relocated, according to state data.

Under this option, no additional lanes would be added to U.S. 41, and turn lanes would not change. There would be two through lanes at-grade and two elevated through lanes on State Road 54.

Draft documents describing the project are available to the public through Dec. 21 at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, at 2818 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. They also can be viewed at the state transportation department’s District Seven office at 11201 N. McKinley Drive in Tampa.

Statements, and exhibits and oral comments, will be accepted at the hearing. Also, all exhibits or statements must be postmarked or emailed no later than Dec. 21 to be part of the official public hearing record. A court reporter also will be available at the hearing for one-on-one comments.

Send statements to Kirk Bogen, Environmental Management Engineer, FDOT, District Seven, 11201 N. McKinley Drive MS 7-500, Tampa, FL 33621-6456.

For information, contact Stephanie Pierce, FDOT project manager, at (813) 975-6445 or .

Published December 2, 2015

Filed Under: Top Story Tagged With: Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce, Collier Parkway, CVS Pharmacy, Elayne Bassinger, Florida Department of Transportation, Kirk Bogen, Land O' Lakes, Land O' Lakes Library, McKinley Drive, MCOR Automotive, Metropolitan Planning Organization, Mike More, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Pinch A Penny, Port Manatee, Port Tampa Bay, Riegler Road, State Road 54, Stephanie Pierce, Tampa International Airport, Tibbetts Lumber, U.S. 41

No tricks, but plenty of free community treats for Halloween

October 23, 2014 By Michael Murillo

Many families will go door-to-door in local neighborhoods searching for candy this Halloween. But if you’d rather do something different — or don’t want to limit the fun to Oct. 31 — there are several public events to enjoy.

Mr. Tommy, right, is a regular at The Shops at Wiregrass annual Halloween event, which will be on Oct. 29 this year. He’ll perform at 10 a.m., and serve as emcee for the costume contest at 11 a.m. (Courtesy of The Shops at Wiregrass)
Mr. Tommy, right, is a regular at The Shops at Wiregrass annual Halloween event, which will be on Oct. 29 this year. He’ll perform at 10 a.m., and serve as emcee for the costume contest at 11 a.m. (Courtesy of The Shops at Wiregrass)

Several activities — most of them free — occur the weekend before Halloween, while others are scheduled for the week of the holiday, and the rest on Oct. 31.

For families
Halloween Howl in Zephyrhills is an annual free event Oct. 25 along Fifth Avenue from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

There will be a costume parade, a hayride — which costs $2 — and free books for children. There’s also a haunted house at 38533 Fifth Ave., the historic Jeffries House.

The costume parade starts at 6 p.m., near the 7-Eleven on Fifth.

If daytime activities are better for your schedule, Hillbilly Farms at 10325 U.S. 98 in Dade City, will host its annual Harvest Festival Oct. 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hayrides, horseback rides, face painting, pumpkin painting and train rides on the Woodland Express all are on the agenda.

Food and other vendors also will be available.

If you’re looking for something on a weekday morning, The Shops At Wiregrass at 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel will have a Halloween event Oct. 29 from 10 a.m. to noon in its parking structure.

Around 400 children are expected to attend, with gift bags ready for each of them.

Debbie Detweiler, The Shops’ marketing director, said the shopping location enjoys putting something special on each year that attracts so many people.

“It’s just a great opportunity for us to be able to give back to the community and provide free entertainment for families,” she said.

That free entertainment includes cookie decorating, balloon art, face painting, crafts and a photo booth. There will also be a costume contest for children 11 and younger benefiting the American Cancer Society, with the winner receiving a family four-pack to Legoland.

The cost is $15 until the day of the contest, and $20 on the day of the event.

Registrations must be completed by Oct. 29 at 10:30 a.m. To register in advance, visit TheShopsAtWiregrass.com.

For pets
Your four-legged friends can participate in the Halloween fun with Spooky Tails on Oct. 25, an annual event at Parwick Kennels, 22129 Carson Road in Land O’ Lakes.

Starting at noon, children can enjoy pony rides and face painting, with a police dog demonstration at 1:30 p.m.

But it’s the pets that go all out for the event, with a costume contest that begins at 2:30 p.m. Each entry gets a free pumpkin and the winner receives $200.

Local business booths, raffles and live music round out the information and entertainment.

While it’s a fun Halloween-themed event, it’s also a fundraiser to help pay the bills for police dogs when they retire from the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office. It also helps pay for equipment and other supplies for the K-9 Unit.

In the past, Spooky Tails has helped pay for a bite suit, which is used in K-9 training drills.

For more information about the event, call (813) 949-1687, or visit ParwickKennels.com.

Halloween alternatives
If your family doesn’t celebrate Halloween, or you’d prefer to participate in a faith-based setting, there’s fall fun on your schedule, too. Several churches are hosting events on or around Halloween.

On Oct. 31, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2017 Reigler Road in Land O’ Lakes, will hold a Trunk-A-Treat celebration from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Admission is free, and includes games, face painting, balloons and candy.

That same evening, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, will host its Trunk or Treat event from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Children will go from car to car — with their trunks and tailgates open — in the church’s parking lot to collect candy and other treats in this family-friendly environment.

Also on Oct. 31, Idlewild Baptist Church, 18333 Exciting Idlewild in Lutz, will have its Light the Night event from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. No costumes are allowed, but there will be games, a hayride and inflatables.

The cost is $3 per person or $15 per family, with children under 2 admitted free.

Published October 22, 2014

See this story in print: Click Here

Filed Under: Local News Tagged With: American Cancer Society, Carson Drive, Collier Parkway, Dade City, Debbie Detweiler, Exciting Idlewild, Fifth Avenue, Halloween Howl, Hillbilly Farms, Idlewild Baptist Church, Jeffries House, Land O' Lakes, Lutz, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, Parwick Kennels, Paseo Drive, Reigler Road, The Shops at Wiregrass, Wesley Chapel, Zephyrhills

Helping children learn to serve, by providing healthy snacks

October 16, 2014 By B.C. Manion

It’s not a bit uncommon for schools to hold food drives to help provide holiday meals for the poor, but Connerton Elementary School has a new program aimed at helping children who are hungry over weekends.

The program, called Pack-A-Sack, is similar to some already under way at schools where a large percentage of children eat free or reduced-price meals, Connerton principal Aimee Boltze said.

Kensington Mize, left, and her sister Maryalice are involved in an effort at Connerton Elementary School to help ensure no students attending their school go hungry over the weekend. (Courtesy of John Mize)
Kensington Mize, left, and her sister Maryalice are involved in an effort at Connerton Elementary School to help ensure no students attending their school go hungry over the weekend.
(Courtesy of John Mize)

On the surface, Connerton doesn’t seem like a school where children would need food assistance on the weekend. But that reality is that 36 percent of Connerton’s students qualify for free or reduced-price meals, Boltze said.

And some of those children are chronically hungry, said John Mize, a parent volunteer who has helped Connerton establish the Pack-A-Sack program. Mize was discussing this need when Boltze and they decided to tackle the challenge of helping these children.

“Over the last six months, we developed the strategy,” he said. “We identified the children that need the support.”

Boltze also assigned Sarah Owen, of the school’s exceptional student education staff, to serve as the school liaison.

Mize has played a huge role in getting the program going, Boltze said. The Land O’ Lakes man and wife Stephanie put a high priority on teaching their children the importance of serving others.

They have two daughters attending Connerton — 9-year-old Kensington, 9, and Maryalice, 7. They also have a son Patrick, 4, who will start kindergarten there next year.

Mize sits on the board of a nonprofit organization, Start-A-Snowball, that provides $100 grants to support youth service projects. He said his work with that organization has inspired him to be involved at Connerton.

The Mizes, Boltze and Owen have helped to foster collaboration between students, faculty, parents, local businesses and local churches, to launch the supplemental nutrition program.

“Initially, we want to start with the food,” Mize said. “Long-term, we want to branch out to other services.”

For instance, a partnership is being formed with Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, he said. The church plans to get involved with food drives, with tutoring and possibly even some sports league scholarships.

Another group at school is doing a clothing drive, Boltze said. The school’s first food drive yielded enough food o supply the first few months of the program.

“We packed 344 sacks of food in 45 minutes,” Mize said. “It was a sight to be seen.”

Mize got help from his family, Owen, a youth group from Gathering Pointe Church, and David Bisignano, who teaches at Connerton and leads a church youth group.

The plan is to provide the supplemental foods every weekend and during the holidays, Boltze said. The school plans to hold additional food drives and welcomes help from residents, businesses and community organizations, Mize said.

Unlike many food drives, which seek canned goods and other nonperishable food items, this one specifically seeks kid-friendly items. Those items are easy to open, offer nutritional value, and require no preparation.

“This is about making sure kids have food to eat,” Mize said. “We feel like if kids don’t have enough food to eat, they’re not going to be able to learn.”

Mize hopes other schools will set up their own programs.

“Ultimately we would like to create a model that can be replicated at other schools,” Mize said.

Want to help?
Here are the items that Connerton Elementary School needs for its Pack-A-Sack program:

• Peanut butter (12- to 18-ounce jar) and a sleeve of crackers
• Cereal (1-ounce box)
• Fruit cups (mixed fruit, peaches, applesauce, etc.)
• Animal crackers
• Goldfish Crackers
• Pudding cups
• Raisins (snack-sized boxes)
• Cereal bars or granola bars
• Cheese or peanut butter cracker sandwiches
• Ritz Bits Cheese (individual packages)
• Vienna sausages

For more information, email Sarah Owen at , call the school at (813) 346-1800, or email parental liaisons John and Stephanie Mize at .

Published October 15, 2014

See this story in print: Click Here

Filed Under: Land O' Lakes News, Local News Tagged With: Aimee Boltze, Connerton Elementary School, David Bisignano, Gathering Pointe Church, John Mize, Kensington Mize, Land O' Lakes, Maryalice Mize, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, Pack-A-Sack

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The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present a video on how to make green grilled cheese on March 9 at 4:30 p.m., for grades four to seven. To view the video, visit the Library Cooperative on Facebook or Instagram. … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Grilled cheese

03/09/2021 – Poetry discussion

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will host a virtual poetry discussion group on “Female Power!” on March 9 at 6:30 p.m., for ages 16 and older, via Zoom. Participants can share a favorite poem or take part in discussions on poems about women or written by women poets. Themed poems will be sent out to help with the session. Registration is required. For information, contact Amaris Papadopoulos at 727-861-3020 or . … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Poetry discussion

03/09/2021 – Technology Tuesday

The Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, will offer a Technology Tuesday: Robots & Machines on March 9, through a curbside pickup activity. The kit will help kids learn more about technology, from robots to coding, through online and hands-on activities. The pickup is limited to 35 participants and must be reserved ahead of time. A book bundle can be included. Kits must be picked up between March 9 at 10 a.m., and March 13 at 5 p.m. For information, call 813-929-1214. … [Read More...] about 03/09/2021 – Technology Tuesday

03/10/2021 – Fandom trivia

The Pasco County Library Cooperative will present Fandom Trivia: High School Musical on March 10 at 4 p.m., for grades eight to 12. Participants can test their knowledge of the High School Musical movies. Registration is required. For information, contact Amaris Papadopoulos at 727-861-3020 or . … [Read More...] about 03/10/2021 – Fandom trivia

03/10/2021 – Student-author book signing

Marchman Technical College, 7825 Campus Drive in New Port Richey, will host a socially distanced book signing with student-author and illustrator Chris Angilell on March 10 at 10 a.m. Angilella is a first-time author who has Asperger's Syndrome. He wrote the book, "Dotty's Freckles," to "inspire people who have a disability, hoping to send a message that they are exceptional and can accomplish anything," according to a news release. The book was independently published last August and can be purchased on Kindle or in paperback through Amazon. The book signing will be outdoors. Masks will be required. Angilella will sign books for attendees who bring their own copies. A limited number of paperbacks also will be for sale at the event. … [Read More...] about 03/10/2021 – Student-author book signing

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This week in SPORTS: Land O’ Lakes Little League celebrates 50th anniversary. https://buff.ly/3rdDl4R

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Helping people get from place to place, safely. https://buff.ly/3v1BCSu

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Solution to Land O’ Lakes traffic jams still years away, if then. https://buff.ly/2Oky2lz

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Local Jewish temple gifted Torah

Save money, get back behind the wheel

Pasco County Fair lives up to its billing

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Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

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Solution to Land O’ Lakes traffic jams still years away, if then

Helping people get from place to place, safely

Giving entrepreneurs tools they need to succeed

Zephyrhills discussing 911 dispatch

No plans to shutter Zephyrhills police department

Local Jewish temple gifted Torah

Save money, get back behind the wheel

Pasco County Fair lives up to its billing

Meals on Wheels looks to expand

Pasco Planning Commission seeks three volunteers

Operation Feed Pasco closes, amid success

It’s strawberry (shortcake) season again

Grove Theater now open in Wesley Chapel

Sports Stories

Land O’ Lakes Little League celebrates 50th anniversary

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First Tee – Tampa Bay awarded $100,000 grant

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