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Savage Race

Florida’s Sports Coast seeks rebound from COVID-19

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The months of March and April historically yield the highest tourist development tax revenues seen all year in Pasco County, tourism officials say.

And, Experience Florida’s Sports Coast, the county’s tourism arm, was expecting another sunny spring — further buoyed by neighbor Tampa hosting WrestleMania and the NCAA March Madness college basketball tournament, among other nationwide sports attractions.

The $44 million, 98,000-square-foot Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County is still on track for opening this summer, and hosting a slew of multi-purpose sporting events beginning this fall. (File)

Then coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) delivered a lethal blow — coincidently around the time county tourism leaders were set to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Florida’s Sports Coast rebrand.

“This couldn’t have come at a worse time for us,” Florida’s Sports Coast tourism director Adam Thomas told The Laker/Lutz News. “We had new promotions to celebrate and really promote, and really, our balloon got shot down.”

The pandemic didn’t just rain on the tourism agency’s birthday parade. It also forced the postponement or cancellation of at least nine sporting events.

They include:

  • Amateur Athletic Union Florida West Coast Karate Championships in Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School in Spring Hill
  • Savage Race and Savage Blitz extreme mud and obstacle course races in Dade City
  • Gran Fondo Florida bicycle race in San Antonio
  • USA Hockey Adult Men’s and Women’s National Championships at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel
  • Florida Premier Football Club Spring Showcase at fields in Land O’ Lakes, Odessa and New Port Richey
  • Caliente Dare to Bare 5K in Land O’ Lakes
  • Amateur Junior Golf Association qualifier event at Saddlebrook Golf Club in Wesley Chapel
  • Sunshine State Games Figure Skating Championships at AdventHealth Center Ice in Wesley Chapel

But, Florida’s Sports Coast officials aren’t throwing in the towel just yet, even as hotel room nights and economic impact losses pile up.

Thomas said his office is working with the various events rightsholders and decisionmakers in hopes to reschedule many of those postponed events sometime later this year, once travel bans and stay-at-home orders are lifted.

“All we can do is keep those conversations going and keep a positive dialogue with each rightsholder but, at the end of the day, it’s up to them,” the tourism director said.

Meantime, Florida’s Sports Coast officials anticipate a strong rebound from mid-summer onward — as a slew of new sports and recreation facilities are set to come online.

Experience Florida’s Sports Coast, Pasco County’s tourism arm, is banking on a strong rebound, despite cancellations resulting from the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Among the most ballyhooed is the $44 million, 98,000-square-foot Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County in Wesley Chapel, which is eyeing a July opening. The indoor multi-purpose sports complex is on track to host eight different events in the fall, beginning with a September volleyball tournament.

Thomas called the facility “the big highlight of our summer,” also noting the venue scored a “major, major event” in basketball for 2021.

The county also expects to reap the benefits of the $4.9 million Sarah Vande Berg Tennis & Wellbeing Center, set to open late summer. The facility figures to have a global reach and play host to large United States Tennis Association-level tournaments. “It’s a little nugget in our back pocket,” Thomas said.

Moreover, Snowcat Ridge, promoted as the state’s first alpine snow park, is still believed to be on track for a November opening in Dade City.

Florida’s Sports Coast communications manager Kolby Kuyck Gayson said that project is integral to the agency’s recovery plan, “because it’s a brand new attraction and it’s going to be hitting right at the time where we’re expecting people to finally be comfortable really getting out there and traveling.”

The tourism office has other reasons for guarded optimism, too.

The 10-daylong Tohrs2Hot4Ice roller derby national championships remains a go for late June and early July at AdventHealth Center Ice. The event could generate as many as 2,000 room nights and an economic impact north of $4 million, Thomas said.

Florida’s Sports Coast also is doubling down on promoting leisure activities, such as a 10-day bay scallop season along the Anclote River, which hopes to draw families within a 350-mile driving radius across Florida, south Georgia and so on.

Elsewhere, the tourism office is pushing to solicit more business meetings and corporate retreats to county hotels through the end of the year.

Pasco had a record year for tourism  in 2019 — hitting the million-visitor mark for the first time ever.

Per tourism office reports, 1,038,700 million visitors generated 1,217,021 room nights in paid accommodations between October 2018 and September 2019. The county’s annual bed tax collections surpassed $3 million for the first time, in that span.

Thomas acknowledged those numbers will be down across the board this year, but added fiscal year 2021 should be “a banner year” from an increased demand for vacations and visitations.

Thomas observed, “This is kind of an anomaly we’re dealing with, not just Pasco, but the entire global tourism marketplace is dealing with the same issue. The demand (for vacations) is at an all-time low now. A year from now, the demand is going to be at an all-time high. …There is a light at the end of the tunnel, there is a brighter day ahead of us.”

Published April 22, 2020

Options abound to make 2020 memorable

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It has become a tradition of The Laker/Lutz News to give our readers a preview of what’s in store for the year ahead in terms of fun family outings, affordable entertainment and opportunities to add more color to their lives.

Here’s our look ahead for 2020.

January 
Raising Cane, A Sweet & Spicy Event
When: Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 admission per person
Details: Competitors can share their custom-made sugar cane syrup for a cook off. A chili competition also will take place and pancakes will be provided. Patrons can also sample chili at $3.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

10th Annual Pigz In Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival
When: Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road, Zephyrhills
Cost: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: While live music is playing, a barbeque competition will take place as well as a cornhole tournament. In addition, there will be a business expo, car show and the Kidz Fun Zone. Patrons also can visit the Military History Museum.
Info: Call (813) 782-1913.

 

 

 

15th Annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 19 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
Cost: Free
Details: On site will be 125 artists and crafters to display their work. Food, live music and street painting.
Info: Visit www.SuncoastArtsFest.com.

Annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: Patrons can purchase all things kumquat including pies, ice cream and cookies, among other foods. There also will be live music as well as arts and crafts.
Info: Call (352) 567-3769 or visit www.DadeCityChamber.org.

 

 

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: $10 for admission
Details: The event will offer a quilt exhibition, a quilt appraiser, vendors and live entertainment.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 17 from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 18, Feb. 19 and Feb. 20 from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Feb. 21 from 3 p.m. to midnight; Feb. 22 from 10 a.m. to midnight; Feb. 23 from noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Pasco County Fairground, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: $10 for adults; $6 for children ages 6 to 12; Free for those age 5 and under
Details: The event will hold a carnival, a rodeo, various foods, competitions and shows.
Info: www.PascoCountyFair.com

Living History, Civil War
When: Feb. 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 1502 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Cost: Feb. 28 – $4 with pre-registration for chaperones and students; $5 at the gate; Feb. 29 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and March 1. from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both at $10 admission.
Details: Patrons can purchase food and enjoy reenactments of the Civil War. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.
Info: Call (352) 567-0262.

March
110th Founder’s Day Parade & Heritage Festival
When: March 6 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; March 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Historic Downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The 1920s theme encourages patrons to come in vintage attire. There will be vendors, food, arts, crafts and games.
Info: Call (813) 780-1414 or visit www.MainStreetZephyrhills.com.

Flea Market at Old Lutz School
When: March 6 and March 7, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., both days
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission.
Details: Come and find bargains galore. Items for sale typically include everything from fine china to crystal to collectibles, as well as art works, books and plants.
Info: Visit the woman’s club’s website, GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Savage Race
When: March 14 at 9 a.m. and March 15 at 3 p.m.
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Various obstacle courses will be offered to test competitors’ endurance.
Info: Visit www.SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park in downtown Dade City
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons and their furry friends can team up to compete in various activities.
Info: Call Lucy Avila at (352) 424-4972 or email .

Land O’ Lakes Music Festival
When: March 21 from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes
Cost: Free
Details: Patrons are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets as they listen to various bands perform.
Info: Call (727) 842-7651.

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 24
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicyclists can compete through San Antonio during either the 35-mile race, 55-mile race or 100-mile race.
Info: Visit www.GranFondoNationalSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When: April 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Kids can have their picture taken with the Easter bunny, go on an egg hunt, go inside a bounce house and do face painting.
Info: (352) 567-0262.

June
Zephyrhills Summerfest
When: June 6
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: This event will include fireworks, a watermelon eating competition, live music and kids’ games.
Info: Call (727) 674-1464.

July
Lutz Fourth of July Parade and Festivities
When: July 4
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
Cost: Free admission and parking
Details: The event includes a race, an old-fashioned parade, vendors, and the election of the honorary Lutz Guv’na.

October
Rattlesnake Festival
When: Oct. 17 and Oct 18
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Cost: Admission and parking are free
Details: Live entertainment, mechanical gopher tortoise races, vendors, food and children’s activities.
Info: Visit www.RattleSnakeFestival.com.

 

December
Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 12 and Dec. 13
Where: Various Tampa Bay pottery studios
Cost: Free
Details: Visitors stop at a number of pottery studios, to see demonstrations, to meet nationally recognized pottery artists and to purchase unique items.
Info: Visit www.TampaTourDeClay.com.

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally held on the first Sunday of December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St. in downtown San Antonio
Cost: Free
Details: The annual lighting of giant Christmas cards and carol singing.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held the first Saturday of December
Where: Fifth Avenue from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
Cost: Free
Details: The event includes food, live entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

GFWC Lutz Arts and Crafts Festival
When: Dec. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Dec. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Keystone Prep, 18105 Gunn Highway, in Odessa
Cost: Free admission; parking fee (which has been $5 in the past) benefits the school
Details: Hundreds of vendors come from across the country to sell unique items at a juried arts and crafts show, which has a festive feel and a family friendly atmosphere.
Info: Visit GFWCLutzLandOLakesWomansClub.org

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Held on selective dates in December
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, Lutz
Cost: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged.
Details: Patrons typically get to tour the school and, for a small charge, there is breakfast with Santa.
Info: Visit www.OldLutzSchool.com.

Published January 01, 2020

New Year in sports offers plenty to watch, experience

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As we embark on a new year, the sports world within The Laker/Lutz News coverage area promises to deliver plenty to watch, experience, and perhaps appreciate.

Here’s a closer look at some of the happenings in 2019:

One major development will be the progression of new sports facilities throughout East Pasco County  —  whether it’s the end-of-year completion of the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Complex, or the beginning of construction of others like the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis Center in Zephyrhills and the Christopher N. Chiles Aquatic Center in Land O’ Lakes.

Tied into all that, keep an eye on the initiatives put forth by Visit Pasco, the county’s tourism agency. Since rebranding its slogan to “Florida’s Sports Coast,” the county is looking to become a destination nationwide for youth and amateur sports.

Speaking of amateur sports, the new year is a good time to jump off the couch, get outdoors and pick up a new sport or activity.

AdventHealth Center Ice (formerly Florida Hospital Center Ice) will host several major tournaments in 2019, such as the USA Hockey adult men’s recreational national championships. (File)

The region presents countless opportunities year-round, from adult softball leagues at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, to recreational hockey leagues at AdventHealth Center Ice (formerly Florida Hospital Center Ice) in Wesley Chapel. Many local churches, including Idlewild Baptist Church, Grace Family Church and St. Timothy Catholic Church, offer their own sports leagues for all skill levels, from kickball and basketball, to flag football and soccer.

The cooler, early year temperatures are also a prime time to hit up the myriad of golf courses in Pasco. The St. Leo Abbey Golf Club in San Antonio and Fox Hollow Golf Club in Trinity are well-regarded, as are the more exclusive 36 holes offered at the Saddlebrook Resort & Spa.

Meantime, the adventure-seeking, fitness-oriented crowd may find it worthwhile to bike the Upper Tampa Bay Trail and the Withlacoochee State Trail; sign up for a Savage Race at Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City; or, partake in Hillsborough County’s annual hiking spree, which includes visiting a number of nature parks and preserves countywide.

Several local churches, such as Idlewild Baptist Church in Lutz, offer a multitude of recreational sports leagues. (Courtesy of Idlewild Baptist Church)

There’s other fun, outdoor activities to give a try, too.

Exhilaration and excitement can also be found at places like TreeHoppers Aerial Adventure Park in Dade City and Skydive City in Zephyrhills. Horseback riding at Odessa’s Northwest Equestrian Conservation Park and rifle shooting at Tampa Bay Sporting Clays in Land O’ Lakes create a fun change of pace, in their own right.

Local sporting events are another highlight of the new year.

AdventHealth Center Ice will showcase its fair share. They include the Mrs. Hockey Invite, featuring the top U-12 girls talent from across the world; the 15th annual Toyota-USA Disabled Hockey Festival, the largest disabled hockey event of its kind; and, the USA Hockey adult men’s recreational national championships.

Silver Dollar Shooters Club in Odessa will play host to a series of premier events, including the Florida Hall of Fame Shoot/Silver Dollar Open, the Florida State Trap Shooting Championships, and the Southern Grand American Tournament.

This rendering shows the proposed Christopher N. Chiles Aquatics Center in Land O’ Lakes, which would add to the growing list of sports facility assets in Pasco County. (File)

Elsewhere, traditional sports-goers should also make a point to check out the various men’s and women’s college sports at Saint Leo University — consistently one of the nation’s Division II athletic programs — and Pasco-Hernando State College. Both institutions provide an up-close look at many athletes who wind up finding success in the professional sports ranks. That’s particularly been the case for Saint Leo’s baseball program, which has yielded seven MLB Draft picks since 2013.

Of course, the high school sports scene is worth watching as well.

The winter prep season is already underway, whereby several local schools are fielding top-notch basketball and soccer teams.

For instance, the Wesley Chapel boys basketball and Sunlake girls basketball have shown early promise, as have the boys and girls soccer teams at Wiregrass Ranch, among some others.

So, don’t be surprised if one or more of those squads wind up making deep playoff runs in their respective sport a couple months from now.

Come springtime, the central Pasco softball scene is sure to provide some exciting moments, as Academy at the Lakes, Land O’ Lakes and Sunlake each are coming off 20-plus win seasons.

The Savage Race, an extreme mud obstacle course, is held twice a year at Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City. (Courtesy of Savage Race)

Academy at the Lakes will be seeking its second-straight Class 2A state title, while Land O’ Lakes will be seeking its second Class 6A title in three years, respectively.

Both squads unquestionably have the veteran pitching firepower to again win state crowns, armed with Alabama signee Lexi Kilfoyl (Academy at the Lakes) and Tennessee signee Callie Turner (Land O’ Lakes) in the circle.

Other local softball programs like Gaither, Freedom, Steinbrenner and Cypress Creek are also coming off strong campaigns to inject some competition in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

The 2019 football season, too, should offer some interesting wrinkles.

New coaches will take over at Pasco and Sunlake, effectively replacing two household names in Tom McHugh and Bill Browning, respectively.

Those programs — along with the other public schools throughout Pasco — will look to unseat Zephyrhills, which went undefeated last regular season and is now up to 19 straight regular season victories.

Another storyline to follow: Land O’ Lakes and the progression they make under second-year coach Chad Walker. In his first season as a high school football head coach, the 34-year-old Walker guided the Gators to a 7-3 mark in 2018 — the program’s first winning season since 2013.

The eight-man football ranks is sure to create intrigue, as well.

Academy at the Lakes will be seeking an unprecedented third consecutive state title.

The team — which also went undefeated in 2018 and is on a 20-game win streak — is expected to return many key pieces, including standout quarterback Jalen Brown, who will be a junior.

Published January 2, 2019

Let the good times roll

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Part of the secret to having fun is knowing where to find it.

And, then once you have figured out some options, it’s good to know early enough so you can do what you need to do, to maximize your enjoyment.

That’s the idea behind this master calendar: It’s a list of fun stuff to do in 2018 — giving readers plenty of time to consider their choices and make some plans.

So, as New Year gets underway, get ready to enjoy yourselves.

January

Raising Cane, a sweet & spicy event
When: Jan. 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 per person, children under 5 free

Details: Syrup-tasting contest; cane grinding; sugar cane pole tossin’; iron skillet tossin’; chili cook-off, chili verde and salsa competition; entertainment; and, vendors

Eighth annual Pigz in Z’ Hills BBQ & Blues
When: Jan 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road

Cost: Free admission; $10 parking. Benefiting local youth and education programs.

Details: Mouth-watering barbecue, blues music, swine and shine car show, aircraft displays, World War II museum, beer and wine, gift vendors, business expo, kids zone and more. No coolers, limited seating, so bring chairs.

Information: Call (813) 782-1913, or visit ZephyrhillsChamber.org.

13th annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 20, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: More than 125 fine artists and craftsmen; live entertainment; emerging artist booth, featuring work of area middle and high school students; street painting; roaming entertainers; and, free art projects for the kids; kids arts garden and maker space, and more

(File)

Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Downtown Dade City

Cost: Admission and parking are free; free shuttles for satellite lots

Details: Local entertainment, antique cars, arts and crafts, activities for kids, vendors, health and wellness, kumquat pies, kumquat products, quilt challenge and more. Several events are held leading up to the festival.

Information: DadeCityChamber.org

Shabby Chic Vintage Market & Artisan Day
When: Jan. 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: Artisans, live music, original art, painted furniture, antique vendors, shabby style and cottage glam

February

Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Feb. 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $10 for adults on Feb. 3; $5 for adults on Feb. 4; $5 for children ages 6 through 12 either day; free for children age 5 and under

Details: Southern Draft Horse Pulling Competition on Feb. 3 at noon; Hoffman Challenge Quilt Collection Show of Quilts and Clothing; Quilt Appraisal and Trunk Show, concessions and food trucks, antique car show, children’s activities, live entertainment on Feb. 4. (Limited seating, lawn chairs welcome for horse pull).

Information: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

Florida Ranch Days
When: Feb. 10 and Feb. 11

Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road (U.S. 301 and Gould Road), Dade City

Cost: Free admission; parking, $10 for cars and $25 for RVs

Details: Live entertainment on two stages; strolling performers; swamp buggy rides; guided ranch tours; face painting; petting farm; games and rides; arts and crafts; food and drink

Information: RanchDays.com

Fourth annual Snowbird Palooza
When: Feb. 3, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

Cost: Free parking and free admission

Details: Free coffee and doughnut mingle hour, fun family activities, free health checks, card games and tournaments, live entertainment and other activities.

Information: Email .

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 19 to Feb. 25

Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City

Cost: $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 6 through 12; free for children age 5 and under

Details: Midway, fair food, entertainment, competitions

Information and schedule: PascoCountyFair.com

Living History and Civil War
When: Feb. 24 and Feb. 25, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 admission, children age 5 and under are free

Details: Civil War Reenactments and Living History Encampment. Visitors can tour authentic confederate and union camps, and get a glimpse of what life was like during the U.S. Civil War. There will be battles each day at 2 p.m.

March

Big Flea Market at the Old Lutz School
When: March 2 and March 3, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: The Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41 N.

Cost: Free admission

Details: Thousands of items for sale to generate funds for causes supported by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club

108th Founders’ Day Parade & Heritage Festival
When: March 10, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (historic downtown Zephyrhills), parade begins at 10 a.m.

Details: Moonshine, Turpentine and Timber is the theme of the parade; as well as a local art display, food vendors, petting zoo, kids’ carnival games and more.

Also, festivities are planned at a second venue.

When: 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Zephyrhills Community Venue, 5200 Airport Road

Details: Live concert, food and merchandise vendors, Busch Gardens penguins and fireworks at 9 p.m.

Information: MainStreetZephyrhills.org, or call (813) 780-1414.

Savage Race
When: March 17 and March 18

Where: 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City

Cost: Parking $10 for cars; $25 for RVs; spectators, $15 in advance; $25 at the door

Details: Twenty-five obstacles, mud in your underwear, chip timing, T-shirt, beer, action photos, camaraderie, memories

Information: SavageRace.com

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 17, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Agnes Lamb Park, in downtown Dade City

Details: Dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, canine got talent, ice cream/yogurt eating contest and more

Third annual Land O’ Lakes Music Fest
When: March 24, noon to 8 p.m.

Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park (formerly the Land O’ Lakes Community Center), 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Cost: Free admission; $10 parking (Bring a lawn chair or blanket)

Details: This Central Pasco Chamber of Commerce event is presented by Ierna’s Heating & Cooling. It features live music, arts and crafts vendors, other booths and more.

Information: Call (813) 909-2722.

Summer Camp Expo
When: March 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Florida Hospital Center Ice, 3173 Cypress Ridge Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Cost: Free admission

Details: Families get a chance to find out about summer camps and activities in the area and businesses get a chance to reach their target audience. There will be entertainment, bounce houses, activity zones, a photo booth, giveaways, character visits and more.

Information: FamilyFriendlyTampaBay.com

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 24

Where: San Antonio

Details: Bicycle road race through the rolling hills of Dade City and San Antonio. Cyclists can choose to ride three distances: 35 miles, 55 miles or 100 miles, and are timed on certain stretches of the race.

Information: GranFondoNationalChampionshipSeries.com

Jelly Bean Fling
When: March 31, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City

Cost: $5 admission, free parking

Details: Mr. Tommy will join in the Easter Parade, kids will make Easter bonnets, there will be Easter egg hunts for different age groups; and there will be games, a bounce house, face painting and more.

Information: PioneerFloridaMuseum.org

April

Easter Sunrise Service
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills

When: April 1, 7 a.m. to 8 a.m., rain or shine

Cost: Free admission

Details: Live Christian music, an inspirational message, a live dove release and free refreshments. Seating is limited and lawn chairs are encouraged.

Information: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 783-6192.

Wesley Chapel Boat Show
When: April 20 to April 22

Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel

What: Event showcases boats, boating accessories, fishing gear, apparel and other items.

Information: TheShopsatWiregrass.com

June

Zephyrhills Summerfest
When: June 23, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills

Details: Dance and watermelon eating contests, food vendors, bounce houses, family games, crafters, family activities. Event concludes with fireworks.

Information: Email

July

Lutz Fourth of July Parade and festivities
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot

When: July 4, parade starts at 10 a.m.

Cost: Free admission and parking

Details: There’s a race and other festivities before and after the parade. The winner of the honorary Lutz Guv’na race is announced following the parade. Additional details will be available closer to the time of the event.

September

A salute to Sept. 11
Where: In front of the Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, in Lutz

When: Sept. 11, 10 a.m. to noon

Cost: Free admission, free parking

Details: The GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club honors those lost on Sept. 11 by waving flags in front of the Old Lutz School.

Information: GFWCLutzLandoLakesWomansClub.org

October

San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival
When: Traditionally held the third weekend of October

Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., San Antonio

Cost: Admission and parking are free

Details: This event typically features music, gopher tortoise races, handmade arts and crafts, children’s rides and games, pumpkin patch, farmer’s market, farm animals, food trucks, beer garden, pioneer village and more.

Shabby Chic Vintage Market and Artisan Day
When: Oct. 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Details: Artisans, live music, original art, painted furniture, antique vendors, shabby style and cottage glam

14th annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival
When: Oct. 27 and Oct. 28, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., in Wesley Chapel

Details: Simply Events and The Wesley Chapel Chamber of Commerce have partnered to bring the community to present the 14th Annual Wesley Chapel Fall Festival, which will include a carnival with rides and games, live music, delicious fall foods, beverages, arts and craft area with pumpkin painting, local business expo, Pumpkin Patch, Halloween celebration on Oct. 27.

Information: WesleyChapelChamber.com

November

30th annual Florida Bug Jam
When: Nov. 10 and Nov. 11

Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City

Information: FloridaBugJam.com

December

Lutz Arts & Crafts Show
When: Dec. 1 and Dec. 2

Where: Keystone Preparatory High School, 18105 Gunn Highway in Odessa

Details: Hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food booths in an annual show that draws tens of thousands of shoppers

34th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills front lawn, 7050 Gall Blvd.

When: Dec. 2, noon to 7 p.m., rain or shine

Details: Tree decorating begins at noon. There’s an evening program from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., with musical entertainment, a Christmas message, the lighting of the trees and fireworks.

Information: Call Jane Freeman at (813) 783-6192.

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally the first Sunday in December

Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., in downtown San Antonio

Cost: Free admission, free refreshments

Details: Annual lighting of giant Christmas cards, old-fashioned carol singing and other nostalgic touches

11th annual Tampa Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 8 and Dec. 9

Where: Stops at area pottery studios

Cost: The tour is free.

Details: Those making the tour will have the chance to watch kiln openings, talk with nationally known ceramic artists and perhaps do a bit of shopping.

Information: TampaTourDeClay.com

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held on the first Saturday in December  

Where: On Fifth Avenue, from Seventh to 10th streets, in downtown Zephyrhills

Cost: Admission is free

Details: The event includes food, entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December.

Where: 18819 U.S. 41 N., Lutz

Cost: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods encouraged

For details closer to the time of the event, visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Published January 3, 2018

Resolve to have fun in 2017

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Maybe 2017 is the year that you’re going to have more fun.

But, perhaps you want to improve planning your activities, and to get a better handle on your spending, too.

The Laker/Lutz News is here to help.

Whether you’re new to area, or have lived here for decades, this guide is intended to help you plan fun activities for you and your family, without breaking the bank.

January
Raising Cane, a sweet & spicy event
When: Jan. 14, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum & Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: Admission: $5 per person
Details: Cane syrup making, cane syrup competition, chili cook-off, salsa competition, greased pole climbing, iron skillet toss, entertainment and vendors

This blues band is keeping the crowd entertained at the Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues fest. (File Photos)

Seventh annual Pigs in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues
When: Jan 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 5200 Airport Road, at the new community venue
How much: Free admission; $10 parking
Details: Mouth-watering barbecue, blues music, classic car show, aircraft displays, World War II museum, beer and wine, gift vendors, business showcase, kids zone and more
For information, call (813) 782-1913, or visit ZephyrhillsChamber.org.

 

12th annual Suncoast Arts Fest
When: Jan. 21, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 22, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
How much: Free admission and parking
Details: More than 125 fine artists and craftsmen; live entertainment; emerging artist booth, featuring work of area middle and high school students; street painting; roaming entertainers; and, free art projects for the kids

Dade City’s annual Kumquat Festival
When: Jan. 28, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown Dade City
How much: Admission and parking are free; free shuttles for satellite lots
What: Local entertainment, antique cars, arts and crafts, activities for kids, vendors, health and wellness, kumquat pies, kumquat products, quilt challenge and more
Several events are held leading up to the festival, visit DadeCityChamber.org for information.

February
Farm Fest & Quilt Show
When: Feb. 4, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Feb. 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Florida Pioneer Museum & Village,15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
How much: $10 per day, or $15 for both days.
What: Draft horse pull on Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. (Bring your own lawn chair, limited seating); quilt show, activities, music and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Florida Ranch Days
When: Feb. 11 and Feb. 12
Where: Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
How much: Free admission; parking, $10 for cars and $25 for RVs
Details: Live entertainment on multiple stages; guided ranch tours on hay wagons; swamp buggy rides; trading post; food roundup; children’s area; and more
For information, visit RanchDays.com.

Third annual Snowbird Palooza
When: Feb. 11, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free parking and free admission
Details: Entertainment, speakers, coffee and donuts social, Bingo tent, live magician, art classes and more
For information, email .s.

Pasco County Fair
When: Feb. 20 to Feb. 26
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
Details: Midway, fair food, entertainment, competitions
For a schedule of events, admission charge and other information, visit PascoCountyFair.com.

March
Flea Market at the Old Lutz School
When: March 3 and March 4
Where: The Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Admission is free.
Details: Thousands of items for sale to generate funds for causes supported by the GFWC Lutz-Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club.

Second annual Land O’ Lakes Music Fest
When: March 11, noon to 8 p.m.
Where: Land O’ Lakes Community Center, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.
How much: Early bird $10 general admission, $15 at the gate; Early bird $25 reserved seating, $30 at the gate; $5 parking.
Details: Live music, car show, bounce houses, obstacle course, video games, food and drink vendors, business and arts & crafts showcase. No outside food or coolers allowed. Event will be held, rain or shine.

Founders’ Day Parade in Zephyrhills
When: March 11, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Main Street Zephyrhills District
How much: Free admission
Details: A parade to celebrate Founders’ Day in Zephyrhills. This year’s theme is classic board games.
For information, visit MSZI.org.

Savage Race
When: March 18 and March 19
Where: 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City
Details: Twenty-five obstacles, mud in your underwear, chip timing, T-shirt, beer, action photos, camaraderie, memories
For information, visit SavageRace.com.

Dogs Day in Dade City
When: March 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Agnes Lamb Park, in downtown Dade City
Details: Dog wagon parade, dog costume contest, canine got talent, ice cream/yogurt eating contest and more

Zephyrhills Pie Festival
When: March 25, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
How much: Free admission and parking; $10 all-you-can-eat pie buffet, from noon until 3 p.m.
Details: Pie bakers and vendors, slices of pie and whole pies for sale; pie-eating contests, a pie buffet, local business showcase, kids’ area, DJ entertainment and other activities

Gran Fondo Florida
When: March 26, start time 8 a.m.
Where: San Antonio
Details: Bicycle road race through the rolling hills of Dade City and San Antonio. Cyclists can choose to ride three distances: 30 miles, 60 miles or 100 miles, and are timed on certain stretches of the race.For information, visit GranFondoNationalChampionshipSeries.com.

April
Jelly Bean Fling
When: April 8, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
Details: Easter bunny, Easter bonnet parade, egg hunt, face painting, bounce house and more
For information, visit PioneerFloridaMuseum.org.

Easter Sunrise Service
Where: Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., Zephyrhills
When: April 16, 6:45 a.m. to 7:45 a.m.
How much: Free admission
Details: Live Christian music, an inspirational message, a live dove release and free refreshments. Seating is limited and lawn chairs are encouraged.

 

 

 

 

Wesley Chapel Boat Show
When: April 21 to April 23
Where: The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel
For information, visit TheShopsatWiregrass.com.

June
Third Annual Zephyrhills SummerFest
Where: Zephyr Park, 38116 Fifth Ave., Zephyrhills
When: June 24, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
How much: Free admission, free parking
Details: Live entertainment; bounce houses, slides, a rock wall, trampoline and other kids’ activities; vendor village of arts & crafters; pet friendly; fireworks at sunset
For information, contact .

July
What: Lutz Fourth of July
When: July 4, parade starts at 10 a.m. (There’s a race and other festivities before and after the parade). More details will be available closer to the event.
Where: Downtown Lutz, near the Train Depot
How much: Admission and parking are free.

November
29th annual Florida Bug Jam
When: Nov. 11 and Nov. 12
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52, Dade City
For details, visit FloridaBugJam.com.

 

 

 

December
Lutz Arts & Crafts Show
When: Dec. 2 and Dec. 3|
Where: Keystone Preparatory High School, 18105 Gunn Highway in Odessa
Details: Hundreds of arts and crafts vendors and food booths in an annual show that draws tens of thousands of shoppers

Christmas in the Park
When: Traditionally held on the first Sunday in December
Where: City Park, 12202 Main St., in downtown San Antonio
How much: Free admission, free refreshments
Details: Annual lighting of giant Christmas cards, old-fashioned carol singing and other nostalgic touches.

Tampa Tour de Clay
When: Dec. 9 and Dec. 10
Where: Stops at area pottery studios
How much: The tour is free.
Details: Those making the tour will have the chance to watch kiln openings, talk with nationally known ceramic artists and perhaps do a bit of shopping.
For details, visit TampaTourDeClay.com.

Church Street Christmas
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: Historic Church Avenue in Dade City
How much: Admission is free
Details: Enjoy carolers, musicians and other entertainers along a street where the sidewalks are lit by luminaries and the houses are brilliantly decorated.

Old Lutz School Christmas House
When: Traditionally held on select dates in December
Where: 18819 U.S. 41 N.
How much: Free admission; donations of toys and nonperishable foods are encouraged
For details, visit OldLutzSchool.com.

Festival of Lights on Main Street
When: Traditionally held on the first Saturday in December
Where: On Fifth Avenue, from Seventh to 10th streets in downtown Zephyrhills
How much: Admission is free
Details: The event includes food, entertainment, holiday activities and a Christmas parade.

REGIONAL EVENTS
These events are beyond The Laker/Lutz News coverage area, but may be of interest to our readers.

Gasparilla Parade of Pirates
When: Jan. 28, 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: The parade goes from Bay to Bay and Bayshore boulevards, and continues on a route through downtown Tampa, ending at Cass Street and Ashely Drive. (People begin gathering hours before the parade begins; parking can be difficult to find).
Details: The parade includes 130 units, including floats, marching bands, pirates and more.

Florida State Fair
When: Feb. 9 through Feb. 20
Where: Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N.
Details: Fair foods, midway, entertainment, competitions
For information, visit FloridaStateFair.com.

Bay Area Renaissance Festival
When: Weekends, Feb. 18 through April 2
Where: 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa
How much: $17.95 adults, $9.95 children; free parking
Details: Step back to medieval times, with live jousting, and old time foods and shops.
For information, visit BayAreaRenFest.com.

Strawberry Festival
When: March 2 through March 12
Where: 303 N. Lemon St., Plant City
Details: Strawberry shortcake, entertainment, festival rides, contests, fair foods, competitions and more.
For information, visit FlStrawberryFestival.com.

Chasco Fiesta
When: March 24 through April 1
Where: Downtown New Port Richey
Details: Chasco Fiesta is a nine-day festival with events ranging from a Native American Pow Wow, to a street parade, to a boat parade to shows, a carnival, a fiesta and more.
For information, visit ChascoFiesta.com.

Florida Blueberry Festival
When: April 22, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and April 23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Historic downtown Brooksville
How much: $10 for adults (over 18); $5 for ages 13 to 17; free for those 12 and under; $5 in designated parking areas. The event is pet friendly.
Details: Entertainment, fresh blueberries, kids zone, arts and crafts, beer, wine, food and more
For information, visit FloridaBlueberryFestival.org.

Tampa Bay International Dragon Boat Races
When: April 29, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Contachobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Old Water St., Tampa Bay
Details: Rowing teams compete
For information, visit PanamDragonBoat.com, and click on “Events.”

GeckoFest
When: Sept. 2, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport
Details: The theme of the 17th annual GeckoFest will be Geckostock, a celebration of the 1969 Woodstock Festival, as was hippies and the “Peace and Love” generation.

Published January 4, 2017

Cattlewomen prepare for 2016 Savage Race

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A group of Florida cattlewomen are gearing up for one of the most challenging endurance competitions around.

Cattlewomen Beth Hunt, Reyna Hallworth and Ashley Hughes have joined forces with others to create “Team Beef.”

A group of Florida cattlewomen have formed Team Beef to complete the 2016 Savage Race. From left: Reyna Hallworth, Ashley Hughes and Beth Hunt. (Courtesy of Florida Cattlewomen Inc.)
A group of Florida cattlewomen have formed Team Beef to complete the 2016 Savage Race. From left: Reyna Hallworth, Ashley Hughes and Beth Hunt.
(Courtesy of Florida Cattlewomen Inc.)

The goal: Complete the 2016 Savage Race, and encourage others to join the challenge.

The race — set for Oct. 22-23 at the Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City — is grueling. The 7.5-mile course features 25 military-style obstacles scattered throughout a humid, swampy terrain.

The event, in its third year in Dade City, is expected to attract 10,000 racers and 3,000 spectators from all over Florida.

Hughes, executive director of the Florida Beef Council, completed the race— “a huge physical challenge”— in 2012. Her advice: Push through and finish strong.

“Your adrenaline runs so high,” Hughes, 32, said, “because you know it’s going to be challenging, and you know it’s going to be hard, and you just pray that you have the stamina to be able to make it through.”

She added: “It really is an awesome opportunity for Team Beef to show that we completed this.”

Though the women are training individually, their objective is to stay together throughout the course, and finish as a unit.

“We need to stay together,” said Hunt, president Florida Cattlewomen Inc.

“The accountability factor is huge,” added Hallworth, a former beef extension scientist for the University of Florida.

To prepare for the race, Hallworth — now a stay-at-home mother of three — is following a six-week conditioning program that incorporates jogging, sprints and an assortment of body-weight exercises.

“Sometimes, I can work a workout into my daily routine, sometimes I have to do it on the side of a soccer field during (youth) soccer practice,” Hallworth explained.

“It’s not easy for any of us, but it is a priority.”

Finding the time, Hunt said, is key.

The 2016 Savage Race is set for Oct. 22 to Oct. 23 at the Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City. The 7.5-mile course features 25 military-style obstacles scattered throughout a humid, swampy terrain. The event is expected to attract 10,000 racers and 3,000 spectators from all over Florida. (Courtesy of SavageRace.org)
The 2016 Savage Race is set for Oct. 22 to Oct. 23 at the Little Everglades Ranch in Dade City. The 7.5-mile course features 25 military-style obstacles scattered throughout a humid, swampy terrain. The event is expected to attract 10,000 racers and 3,000 spectators from all over Florida.
(Courtesy of SavageRace.org)

Hunt, who’s participated in several 5K runs and obstacle races, said incorporating daily 45-minute workouts helps build endurance for the looming event.

“Even if it’s getting outside and walking a couple of blocks,” said Hunt, “and working in some other strength training or air squats.”

“Getting out the door is step No. 1,” Hughes agreed. “If you can get your shoes on and get your running clothes on, you’re halfway there.”

She continued: “You have to train hard to be able to accomplish that (race), but always make sure to listen to your body…if something doesn’t feel right.”

Yet, perhaps the Savage Race’s largest obstacle isn’t even physical.

“I think the biggest aspect,” Hallworth said, “is getting over the mental hurdle.”

Hallworth, who suffers from bursitis in her left foot and also broke her shoulder a few years ago, added: “My circumstances aren’t going to define whether or not I can do this.”

To fuel — and replenish — their bodies, the group turns to none other than lean beef during meal times.

“Protein is such an incredible recovery,” Hughes said, “because you’re literally burning your muscles as you’re training.”

“You get 50 percent of your daily recommended (protein) value from 3 ounces of beef, and at a low caloric cost,” she added.

Although the lengthy trek is intimidating, Hughes said the Savage Race is “acceptable to everyone.”

“Even though the Savage Race is hard, you can do it at your pace. You can do it slowly, you can walk it if you need to, you don’t have to come out there like an elite athlete,” Hughes explained.

But, she noted prospective race-goers need ample preparation time.

“If you’re doing a straight-from-the-couch kind of program, give yourself a good couple of months, or a good eight weeks,” explained Hughes. “For people who are already in shape, (give) at least four to six weeks.”

For more information on the Florida Cattlewomen, visit FloridaCattlewomen.org.

For information on the 2016 Savage Race, visit SavageRace.com.

Published October 12, 2016

County tourist leaders want to double Savage Race sponsorship dollars

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The Pasco County Tourist Development Council may feel a little generous next week, especially if the group follows a recommendation to give an event company double the sponsorship money it would’ve normally received from the county.

The intended recipient is Mad Cap Events LLC, an Orlando-based company that is planning to bring the Savage Race back to Little Everglades Park in Dade City for two days. The race, which will be held just before Halloween, is described as “an intense 5- to 7-mile obstacle run with 25 world class obstacles, mud, fire and barbed wire,” according to the event’s website. The race is “challenging fun that will give you and your friends an adrenaline buzz that lasts for days.”

Mad Cap charges participants between $54 and $89 per day of the event, depending on how early they register. That does not include a $15 surcharge added to those prices to cover insurance.

Spectators pay $15 in advance or $25 at the gate, on top of a $10 charge for parking.

The spring race held in Pasco County generated 1,051 hotel room nights, Pasco County’s Office of Tourism Development reported. Because of that, each day could qualify for a county sponsorship of $10,000. Mad Cap, however, wants $20,000, and the Tourism Development Council is being asked to give the company a total of $40,000 — higher than the $15,000 per night starting point usually recommended for events that draw double the hotel room nights.

But there is a good reason to spend the extra money, county tourism manager Ed Caum said in a memo to the council.

“The marketing exposure we receive online with this event has been excellent,” he wrote. “Mad Cap Events LLC markets Pasco County’s Little Everglades Ranch at each of their events around the nation. Further, they have made the commitment for Pasco to be their ‘premier’ race site. (Their) events have become so popular that events in Pasco are held on both Saturday and Sunday.”

Mad Cap does not release revenue publicly, however a September 2012 story in the SportsBusiness Journal reported Mad Cap earned $500,000 on two races the company staged in its first year of operation. Two years later, it had expanded to six states, including Maryland and Pennsylvania, while continuing its presence in Florida.

The Tourism Development Council includes three elected officials — Pasco County commissioner Jack Mariano, New Port Richey councilman Chopper Davis, and Dade City mayor Camille Hernandez. It also includes leaders from Pasco’s tourism market, including Gail Cushman from Days Inn & Suites, Piyush Mulji from Hampton Inn, Kyle VonKohorn of Fairfield Inn & Suites, Toby Caroline of Paradise Lakes Resort, Gregory Riehle of Saddlebrook Resort, and Jack Phethean of Little Everglades Ranch — the venue that will host the Savage Run.

The meeting, which is open to the public, is June 18 at 10 a.m., at the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey.