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University of Florida

New principal embraces chance to lead Steinbrenner

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Tiffany Ewell, the new principal at Steinbrenner High School, said she always  knew she would face a learning curve when taking the leadership role at a school.

However, she said, “my learning curve might be a little steeper than I ever imagined.”

After all, in addition to assuming a  new role, Ewell faces a school year filled with uncertainties because of COVID-19.

“But, we’re all in the same boat,” Ewell said. “The challenges are there for everyone. We’re going to get through this and we’ll do it together.’’

Tiffany Ewell, the new principal at Steinbrenner High School, comes from Strawberry Crest High, where she was assistant principal in charge of the International Baccalaureate program. (Joey Johnston)

The educator, who was promoted in June from her position as assistant principal for the International Baccalaureate program at Strawberry Crest High in Dover, has spent her summer preparing for the new school year.

At a time when the incoming principal would normally be assessing her faculty lineup, meeting and greeting with parents, and getting to know the community, she’s forced to work at a social distance. She’s preparing Steinbrenner’s brick-and-mortar classrooms for the proper health precautions, while also devising strategies for eLearning students.

“Some of the best advice a first-time principal can receive is the need to be patient and flexible … and that’s certainly true right now,’’ Ewell said. “Even though we’re in a historic and stressful time, I know I’m surrounded by so much support. We all want the same thing and that’s to see our students be successful.

“Regardless of COVID-19, there are a lot of changes in the county with a new superintendent (Addison Davis). There’s a great feeling of camaraderie among all the principals. Staff and parents have been super supportive. Steinbrenner has been a great school for a long time. I’m relying on the support systems available to me and know things don’t have to be reinvented. I’m here to help and, at times, put my own direction on it. I’m very excited to be here.’’

Ewell replaces Kelly King, who was assigned to Hillsborough High after seven years as Steinbrenner’s principal.

Ironically, Ewell and King once worked side by side as social studies instructors when their teaching careers began at King High School. They went together from King to Freedom, following principal Richard Bartels, who told them both, “I’m going to make principals of you one day.’’

“Mr. Bartels was right … it actually happened,’’ King said. “Certainly, it defies the odds that two social studies teachers and next-door classroom neighbors just starting out would become principals.

“Even long ago, we talked about it all the time. We went through all the leadership development courses and programs. We had the same kind of goals. We were just two peas in a pod. I’m thrilled that Tiffany has gotten this opportunity, and I couldn’t think of a better person for the Steinbrenner position.’’

As they shifted into administration, King and Ewell worked a parallel path, sometimes applying for the same jobs, even driving together to attend back-to-back interviews.

“I can always pick up the phone and ask Kelly a question, so our friendship and her experience at Steinbrenner are a great asset,’’ said Ewell, who had worked at Strawberry Crest since the East Hillsborough County school opened in 2009.

King said the Steinbrenner community won’t notice much of a difference because “Tiffany and I are really similar in so many ways.’’

Indeed, they are close friends and confidants. They have even taken vacations together.

“Tiffany’s leadership style will be a great fit at Steinbrenner,’’ King said. “She was a very strong teacher and she has the IB experience, so she knows the importance of college readiness. I think she will continue the success of the academic and extracurricular programs.

“This is a unique time with unique challenges, but it’s still the best job in the world. As a principal, there are stressful times, but you remain focused on the big picture. You do what’s right for the students. You hear from all the people who have a stake in it, then make decisions, always keeping the students first and foremost. Through it all, you’ve got to have some fun, too. The job can wear you out, but it’s also so fun and so rewarding. Tiffany will have the perfect priorities for success,” King said.

In assuming the school’s top job, Ewell becomes just the third principal in Steinbrenner’s history, replacing King, who had replaced Brenda Grasso, the school’s first principal.

Ewell is a graduate of King High School. She originally attended the University of Florida (UF) with designs on becoming a broadcast journalist. In high school, she even conducted an interview with Fox-13 news anchor Kelly Ring, while dreaming of one day filling a similar role in her hometown.

Back then, some King teachers insisted that Ewell would ultimately migrate into education.

“I’m not going to be a teacher, I’m a journalist,’’ Ewell protested.

But, at UF, she visualized a gypsy lifestyle in broadcasting, hopping from town to town while climbing the career ladder, and that didn’t seem appealing.

She transferred to the University of South Florida, where she shifted to education.

Ewell hasn’t regretted the move.

She loves to travel. She’s a doting aunt to her nephews, Drew and Zach Ehrhard, both high-level baseball players. She’s passionate about all things Tampa Bay.

But, her biggest passion is education. And now, that passion is centered on Steinbrenner.

“Obviously, there are a lot of unknowns right now.

“But, we’re going to build relationships and make it work. Things have worked well at Steinbrenner for a long time. I’m here to lend support and keep things moving in a good direction,” Ewell said.

By Joey Johnston

Published July 29, 2020

Local javelin standout ready for bigger stage

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New Tampa resident Zach Godbold was poised to conclude his high school athletic career on top of a winner’s podium.

At Wharton High School, Godbold had wrapped up his final varsity football and soccer seasons in the fall and winter, respectively.

His attention then turned to track and field.

He envisioned hoisting up the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA)’s first state-sanctioned title in the javelin throw, in the modern era.

Wharton High’s Zach Godbold had eyes set on winning the first official state javelin title in the modern era, until the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of spring sports. (Courtesy of Kyle LoJacono)

After all, in 2019 Godbold won the FHSAA’s exhibition state title in javelin — as part of a provisional period for the track and field offering.

He picked up right where he left off this spring.

Godbold was ranked No. 1 in the state with a rubber-tip javelin throw of 55.15 meters. The mark was well ahead of the state’s No. 2 thrower, Pompano Beach Highlands Christian Academy junior Nick Veynovich, who had a personal best of 49.36 meters.

Then COVID-19 happened — wiping out the remainder of the Florida high school sports season in early March.

And, just like that, Godbold’s shot at making history vanished. His status as the de facto favorite to become the first officially recognized javelin state champion since 1950 was erased.

The FHSAA discontinued the javelin in 1950, due to safety concerns. It brought it back with some new procedures, such as using a rubber tip instead of a steel tip seen in college and Olympic-level competitions.

“It being my senior year and my first official chance, it was obviously disappointing,” Godbold said, in a recent interview with The Laker/Lutz News.

He felt for his fellow teammates and other athletes, too.

“I lost my season, but so did every other spring sport for every level, so everyone’s in the same boat,” Godbold said.

But, time has healed his wounds.

He missed out on a would-be historic state crown, but he has since shifted focus to his next challenge — competing on the University of Florida men’s track and field team.

He signed a college athletic scholarship, in May, to attend UF.

So, a missed opportunity that was completely out of Godbold’s control has become motivational factor for his burgeoning college career.

He has lofty expectations for his freshman season at Florida.

He’s aiming for a steel-tip javelin throw of at least 70 meters; his current top mark in the steel-tip throw is 60.38 meters.

As he prepares to move to Gainesville, the athlete has been keeping sharp through gym workouts and javelin throws, which he makes multiple times each week at Hunter’s Green Community Park in New Tampa.

“I’m hoping to come out and improve my personal best so much that no one sees it coming,” Godbold said. “I’m kind of eager to get out there and show what I can do after improving for a whole year.”

Wharton High track and field coach Kyle LoJacono sympathizes with Godbold’s missed opportunity to claim a historic achievement.

New Tampa resident Zach Godbold has signed with University of Florida men’s track and field, where he’ll compete in the javelin throw. Godbold recently graduated from Wharton High School.

“My heart went out to the kid because of how much he’s done, he wanted to get that state championship,” LoJacono said.

Right up until the final meet of the season on March 7, Godbold went the extra mile both in training and at meets, the coach said.

LoJacono said the athlete lifted weights early in the morning and practiced track in the afternoon, while also juggling what was left of his soccer season.

“You would think that somebody’s who’s No. 1 might get a little bit complacent, but this year there was really none of that…because he really did everything as far as that strength and conditioning side,” LoJacono said.

His attitude, the coach said, was: “How can I make myself better?”

While Godbold’s senior season ended abruptly, LoJacono is eager to see Godbold’s potential for growth, as he heads to a Division I national powerhouse that’s claimed nine combined NCAA titles and 11 SEC crowns since 2009.

Said LoJacono: “It really is going to be special to see what he can do over the next four years.”

Javelin creates more opportunities
As Godbold heads off to new challenges, LoJacono is looking forward to the competitive growth of the javelin throw among the Florida high school ranks.

This season, the coach observed an uptick in participants in both local and county meets among boys and girls, compared to when it was a provisional, unscored offering the past couple years. “I’ve seen a lot more people do it. It’s already taken off in a positive way,” he said.

The discipline essentially requires an athlete to throw a spear for distance, and gaining momentum by running within a predetermined area.

In boys competition, the spear weighs 800 grams and has a length of 260 centimeters to 270 centimeters. In girls competition, it’s 600 grams and 220 centimeters to 230 centimeters long.

Mastering javelin requires a combination of sprint speed, strength, explosiveness, athleticism, and technique from the legs all way up to the throwing motion, LoJacono said. “It’s that whole kinetic chain.”

The recent reintroduction of javelin by the FHSAA ultimately could lead to more track and field scholarships for Florida high schoolers.

LoJacono explained those scholarships — namely at Florida colleges and universities — have been going to athletes from other states that offered javelin as a sanctioned high school event.

Bringing javelin back into the fold was forward-thinking on the FHSAA’s part, LoJacono said, because, “there was this whole talent base of kids who were not being served.”

Godbold is a prime example of that, as he first achieved statewide and national recognition in javelin on the AAU circuit as a teen.

Now that it’s a state-sanctioned event, Godbold, too, envisions a wave of youth and high school athletes who may discover an otherwise hidden gift.

“With (javelin) being in meets, and teams caring about points and trying to win meets, they would test out people in practice and throw people out there, so I think coming up in Florida, there’s going to be a lot more good javelin throwers than there have been,” Godbold said.

And, the greater exposure to javelin may create new opportunities, he added.

“I think there’s a lot of people who are playing other sports, maybe they’re a baseball pitcher or something, who have the talent to be able to go Division I in track and field,” Godbold said.

Published June 24, 2020

Pasco mobility fee rates expected to change in September

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The Pasco County Commission is poised to remove an incentive that benefits market-rate apartments throughout the county.

Stripping the incentive will, in essence, create a higher fee for those apartments.

At the same time, commissioners are expected to encourage more affordable housing across the county and to spur redevelopment in the West Market Area — by eliminating mobility fees in those categories.

Commissioners held a virtual public hearing on the changes on June 2 and are scheduled to hold a second, and final, virtual public hearing on June 16 at 1:30 p.m.

This apartment development, near Wesley Chapel Boulevard and State Road 56, is among many complexes built in Pasco County during recent years. The Pasco County Commission wants to take away its mobility fee incentive for new market-rate apartment developments. (File)

The money generated by removing the incentive for market-rate apartments in theory would offset the elimination of mobility fees in the affordable housing and West Market Area categories.

No fee changes are planned for low-rise condominiums/townhomes; high-rise condominiums; age-restricted multifamily, and congregate care facilities.

Also, no increase is proposed for apartments in projects that have mixed-used trip reduction measures, are traditional neighborhood developments or are transit-oriented developments.

Two speakers from the Bay Area Apartment Association called in, to address the board.

Eric Garduno, government affairs director for the association, told the board: “We’re happy to see this proposal reduces mobility fees for affordable multifamily housing, but we are concerned that it increases fees for multifamily housing in the standard urban, suburban and rural categories.

“It wasn’t long ago that commission set mobility rates for the county, which adjusted fees for dozens of land use categories,” Garduno said. “For this proposal to single out multifamily seems arbitrary in light of those recent actions.”

Garduno also made a case for increased construction of apartments in Pasco County.

“Market data demonstrates, actually, there’s strong demand for apartments in Pasco County, with occupancy rates over 92% for the last 10 years, even as new apartments are added each year.

“The other thing to keep in mind is the economic contributions that apartments make to the county. Each apartment community represents millions of dollars of investment. And, each represents jobs. Construction jobs to build them. Onsite management to run them, and professionals like plumbers, electricians, to fix them,” Garduno said.

Wendy Milenkevich, vice president of Bay Area Apartment Association, applauded the county board’s efforts to encourage more affordable housing.

“According to the 2019 rental market survey conducted by the Shimberg Center for Housing Studies at the University of Florida, 29% of Pasco County’s population is considered below income and pay more than 30% of their income towards housing. This is a clear indication that additional affordable housing is needed in our county,” she said.

“Despite this need, it is often a challenge to build affordable multifamily housing. Between increasing costs of land, labor and materials that go into building and maintaining apartment communities, it is difficult to keep at a level that low-income households can afford, without specific incentives provided by government.

“According to the National Apartment Association, on average, 14 cents of every dollar charged in rent goes toward government taxes and fees. Reduction in fees could create the margins that make the difference between a project being built, or not,” she said.

Milenkevich congratulated Pasco County for taking a step toward more affordable housing.

“Providing incentives like these is an important proactive measure by local government.

“We applaud you for taking steps to better encourage affordable housing,” she said.

Commissioners also indicated that they support a Sept. 1 effective date, despite a recommendation by the Pasco County Planning Commission to delay implementation until Jan. 1, 2021.

Planning commissioners reasoned that now isn’t a good time to raise fees, given the crushing impact that COVID-19 has had on the economy.

The apartment association’s Garduna asked commissioners to follow the planning commission’s recommended Jan. 1 implementation.

The county board, however, was not swayed by the planning commission’s recommendation and indicated support for moving ahead with the fee changes at the earliest practical date.

Published June 10, 2020

Locals among top MLB draft prospects

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Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Major League Baseball (MLB)’s 2020 first-year player draft has been shortened to five rounds, from the usual 40 rounds in previous years.

The draft, scheduled for June 10 and June 11, assigns amateur baseball players to MLB teams.

Even with the new consolidated format, however, several locals from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area have a solid chance at being among the 160 athletes drafted. And, they have the possibility of living out their boyhood dreams and landing signing bonuses of hundreds of thousands, if not millions of dollars.

Steinbrenner High product CJ Van Eyk, now at Florida State University (Courtesy of Florida State University athletics department)

Four athletes with area ties are listed among MLB.com’s top 200 nationwide draft prospect rankings, including two within the top 100.

The highest-rated local is Steinbrenner High alum CJ Van Eyk, a junior right-handed pitcher at Florida State University (FSU) — listed as the No. 39 overall draft prospect, by the website.

The 6-foot-1, 198-pound Van Eyk registered an 18-5 win-loss record, 3.21 ERA, 1.274 WHIP and 225 strikeouts in 176.2 innings pitched across three college seasons.

The Lutz native has been a known commodity going back to his prep days, earning first-team All-American honors and a gold medal with the 18U USA National Team. He also led Steinbrenner to its first state championship as a junior in 2016 and was crowned Florida Dairy Farmers’ Class 8A Player of the Year.

Van Eyk was drafted out of high school by the New York Mets in the 19th round of the 2017 draft, but didn’t sign, opting for college instead.

A snippet of MLB.com’s analysis on Van Eyk reads: “The Florida State ace is capable of being a complete pitcher because of his willingness to pitch in with his fastball, his ability to throw his breaking ball at any point in the count and his feel for mixing his pitches to keep hitters off-balance, though issues with his command persisted over his first four starts in 2020. His potential as a starter still should have him in consideration in the top two rounds of the Draft.”

Sunlake High product Tommy Mace, now at the University of Florida (Courtesy of University of Florida athletics department)

The next highest-ranked local is Sunlake High product Tommy Mace, a junior-right handed pitcher at the University of Florida — rated the No. 70 overall prospect for the 2020 draft.

In three seasons at Florida, the 6-foot-6, 200-pound Mace compiled a 16-5 win-loss record, 4.37 ERA, 1.299 WHIP and 145 strikeouts in 179.1 innings pitched. He was off to his best college campaign this year, tallying a 1.67 ERA in a team-high 27 innings, until the remainder of the season was canceled thanks to COVID-19.

Mace was a three-year varsity player at Sunlake. His senior year he guided the program to a 17-12 mark and the Class 7A regional final. He then was selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 12th round of the 2017 draft, but like Van Eyk, didn’t sign to pursue the college route.

MLB.com’s profile on Mace reports states the following: “Mace generally does a nice job of throwing strikes, keeping the ball down in the zone and getting ground ball outs. He gets high marks for his mound presence and makeup, putting him among a solid crop of top two round college pitchers in Florida.”

Though slightly outside our coverage area, an athlete in west Pasco County also cracked MLB’s top 200 prospect list.

Wesley Chapel native/Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High product Carson Ragsdale, now at the University of South Florida (Courtesy of University of South Florida athletics department)

Trinity native Jackson Miller, a senior catcher at Mitchell High, is rated as the 2020 draft’s No. 105 prospect. The Wake Forest University commit posted a .414/.498/.591 slash line in 88 games across four varsity seasons.

Meanwhile, Wesley Chapel native/Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High product Carson Ragsdale, a redshirt junior right-handed pitcher at the University of South Florida (USF), is ranked as the draft’s No. 170 prospect.

The 6-foot-8, 225-pound Ragsdale transitioned to a starter’s role this year at USF, after pitching out of the bullpen his freshman and sophomore seasons. (He missed the 2019 season following Tommy John surgery). He posted a 3.75 ERA, 1.391 WHIP and 77 strikeouts in 50.1 innings across three college seasons. Off the field, he was selected to the 2018-2019 American Athletic Conference All-Academic Team.

Ragsdale was a four-year letter winner at Bishop McLaughlin. He compiled a 1.58 ERA and .352 batting average in his high school career. Those Hurricanes teams that Ragsdale played on went a combined 77-21 from 2013 to 2016.

MLB.com’s report on Ragsdale observes: “Ragsdale threw a lot of strikes this spring, but is still more control than command at this point. Given that scouts only saw four outings from Ragsdale as USF’s Sunday starter, there’s very limited track record for teams to look at, but his size and arm strength, even if it ends up in the bullpen, could be enough for teams to take a chance on him in this year’s Draft.”

Robust draft history
It’s not uncommon for at least a couple locals from area high schools and colleges to be drafted each year.

Last year, Land O’ Lakes High/St. Petersburg College second baseman Dustin Harris was selected in the 11th round by the Oakland Athletics, while Pasco-Hernando State College/University of Tampa pitcher Tyler Beck was selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 30th round.

The 2018 draft yielded four local products:

  • Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High/University of North Florida pitcher Frank German (fourth round, New York Yankees)
  • Saint Leo University pitcher/first baseman Jake Sims (31st round, San Diego Padres)
  • Saint Leo University second baseman Zach Scott (32nd round, Seattle Mariners)
  • Wiregrass Ranch High/University of North Florida pitcher Austin Drury (34th round, Los Angeles Dodgers)

The 2017 draft also was particularly kind to local talent. In addition to Van Eyk and Mace getting drafted out of the prep ranks, six other athletes with local ties were chosen:

  • Odessa native/Bishop McLaughlin/College of Central Florida pitcher Nate Pearson (first round, Toronto Blue Jays)
  • Steinbrenner High/USF shortstop Kevin Merrell (first round compensatory, Oakland Athletics)
  • Steinbrenner High first baseman Patrick Morris (14th round, Toronto Blue Jays)
  • Steinbrenner High/Bishop McLaughlin/University of Pittsburgh pitcher Josh Falk (17th round, Oakland Athletics)
  • Odessa native/Alonso High pitcher Jordan Butler (34th round, New York Yankees)
  • Bishop McLaughlin outfielder Paul Coumoulos (40th round, Philadelphia Phillies)

Locals on MLB.com’s top 200 prospect rankings

  • Steinbrenner High/Florida State University pitcher CJ Van Eyk (No. 39 overall draft prospect)
  • Sunlake High/University of Florida pitcher Tommy Mace (No. 70)
  • Trinity/Mitchell High catcher Jackson Miller (No. 105)
  • Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High/University of South Florida pitcher Carson Ragsdale (No. 170)

Published May 27, 2020

Finding a way to shine a spotlight on seniors

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During normal times, Marie Joles is busy at her day job, working as a dental hygienist.

And, typically during this time of year, high school seniors are gearing up for their final festivities in high school — prom, awards ceremonies, graduation.

But, the threat of a highly contagious and deadly virus — the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic — has upended life’s ordinary routines.

So, instead of going to work, Joles has been at home. And, instead of gearing up for traditional celebrations and hanging out with friends, seniors have been spending their final school days distance learning.

(Courtesy of Marie Joles)

Joles hated the thought that their senior year would end that way. After all, she remembered how special it was for her family to go through the festivities when her daughter, Samantha, graduated last year.

So, Joles, who is a board member of the Wiregrass Ranch High School’s PTSA and in charge of that group’s social media efforts, asked PTSA president Jennifer Kanyok, if she could do Senior Spotlights on their social media.

Once she got the go-ahead, she began soliciting the spotlights on her personal Facebook page and on the Seven Oaks Facebook page.

Then she reached out by text and email to Robyn White, the school’s principal; David Wilson, the athletic director; and to all of the school coaches.

She also reached out to Bobbie Gebhart, the band booster president, and Jeni Wiseman, the football team mom — to spread the word about the profiles.

The parents submit the photos and blurbs, which Joles tweaks and posts.

In less than 24 hours, she had seven profiles ready.

Now, there are dozens posted.

They convey a sense of pride of the parents who submitted the blurbs about their children.

The profiles offer a glimpse of the lives these members of the Wiregrass Ranch High Class of 2020 have led, and offer insights about their personalities and aspirations.

Some have earned college credits, a college diploma or industry certifications while still in high school. Others have volunteered hundreds of hours.

They’ve been in theatrical performances, in marching band and orchestra, in color guard and cheerleading.

They’ve competed in lacrosse, soccer, swimming, football, track, basketball, weightlifting, basketball and other sports.

They’ve been members of the National Honor Society, the Key Club, and Health Occupations Students of America, to name just a few clubs.

And, they have wide-ranging ambitions.

Some plan to pursue traditional careers, such as nursing, law and business administration. Others aspire to less common paths, such as becoming a Judge Advocate General (JAG) officer, a makeup specialist or an animator.

Most graduates appear to be heading off to higher education in the Sunshine State, at such colleges as Pasco-Hernando State College, Saint Leo University, the University of South Florida, the University of Central Florida, the University of Florida, Florida State University and Stetson University.

Regardless of what they’ve done, or where they’re going — they have made an impression.

One graduate is described as “a beautiful soul and a day of sunshine.”

Another is said to have “a musician’s heart.”

One “has a big heart, is a hard worker and knows how to live in the moment.”

Another has “a wicked sense of humor, amazing spirit and zeal for life.”

Joles said she wanted to do the spotlights because this is a special time for seniors and they deserve recognition.

“I wanted to let them know that we appreciate them,” she said.

Those wishing Joles to post a profile of a Wiregrass Ranch senior can reach out to her at  , or text her at (813) 830-8643.

How are you celebrating your graduating seniors?
The normal ceremonies that mark completion of high school are being postponed until later this year. Meanwhile, families and schools are getting creative in their efforts to help celebrate members of the Class of 2020.

What are you doing? We’d love to know. We’re planning to do a story sharing how families and schools within The Laker/Lutz News are rising to the occasion to make their high school seniors feel special.

Send your submissions to .

Thank you, in advance, for your help.

Published May 06, 2020

Sunlake distance runners leave lasting mark

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For this group of distance runners, the thousands of miles of foot to pavement have finally paid off — in the form of college athletic scholarships.

The past few years, Sunlake High School’s boys and girls cross-country and long distance track programs have established themselves as among the best in the area, and the state.

This year’s National Signing Day festivities underscored that fact: Five senior runners made their college commitments official on Feb. 5 — Luke Scheid (Flagler College), Gavin Kennedy (Saint Leo University), Drew Knobl (Southeastern University), Albert La Red (Saint Leo University), and Liina Winborn (University of Florida). A sixth distance runner, Emily Jenkins (Pasco-Hernando State College) participated in an early signing day ceremony in December.

Five Sunlake distance runners signed their National Letters of Intent on Feb. 5 to various colleges and universities. From left: Luke Scheid (Flagler College), Drew Knobl (Southeastern University), Albert La Red (Saint Leo University), Gavin Kennedy (Saint Leo University), and Liina Winborn (University of Florida). A sixth distance runner, Emily Jenkins (Pasco-Hernando State College), not pictured, participated in an early signing day ceremony in December. (Kevin Weiss)

Sunlake also celebrated two boys lacrosse signings — Jason Schwarz (Barton College) and Roberto Valentin (Webber International University).

But, it was a particularly special day for the Seahawks’ runners, who leave a lasting legacy as they take the next step to the college ranks.

The Seahawks cross-country program in 2019 experienced arguably its best season ever, as the boys squad finished fifth and the girls team sixth at the Class 3A FHSAA state championships. Both teams also claimed conference titles and had strong showings at districts. The girls took first place, and the boys finished runner-up. Both squads also garnered top-five finishes at regionals — boys, third; and girls, fourth.

Many of those same distance runners also helped steer the school’s 2019 track team to sweep conference and district crowns. The boys team went on to win regionals, while the girls finished runner-up that season, then advanced to states.

Saint Leo University signee Albert La Red believes the distance team’s recent string of success and the large 2020 signing class now will help underclassman gain exposure from colleges and universities “that weren’t looking at us before.”

“It’s exciting,” La Red said, “because now we get these young guys over there, they have such a bright future for them.”

Sunlake’s distance runners logged an estimated average of 1,600 miles per year, with some runners racking up as many as 7,000 miles during their four-year prep running careers.

Besides developing their athletic skills, the grueling practices and stressful meets also forged lasting bonds and memories for La Red and other distance runners.

“I grew up with everybody at this school, and so it was super fun just running with my friends all time,” La Red said. “We always hang out outside of school and stuff, always inviting each other over, always doing things.”

Fellow teammate and Flagler College signee Luke Scheid also appreciates the “lifelong friends” established through the cross-country and track programs — ones that helped push him through daily workouts.

Scheid said the thing he’ll likely miss the most from his time at Sunlake is the way he felt during hard practices — when running with his teammates was motivating, and made those difficult practices feel easier.

Liina Winborn’s pledge to the University of Florida marks the cross-country team’s first NCAA Division I signing in program history.

In her time at Sunlake, the decorated distance runner set several school records, claimed multiple conference and district individual titles, and earned fourth-place and sixth-place individual finishes the past two years at the 3A state cross-country championships.

With that, the two-time Sunshine Athletic Conference (SAC) East girls’ cross-country runner of the year and defending girls track runner of the year had trouble settling on her favorite memory as a Seahawk.

“It’s hard to pick one,” Winborn said, noting there were so many fun and funny moments.

Born into a military family, Winborn transferred into Sunlake as a sophomore from an international school in Belgium.

The school’s cross-country and track programs made the cultural transition easier — by offering Winborn an immediate peer group.

“The hardest thing was getting used to it and making new friends,” she said, “but having the team automatically gave me those amazing friendships that I know are going to last forever.”

The highly coveted athlete said she’s relieved to be done with the recruiting process, which ended when she signed the dotted line to become a Florida Gator.

“It feels amazing to finally not stress about it for one, but to have my future set and to be going to such an amazing school,” she said.

She also said: “I wouldn’t be going there without my team and my coach, and just everybody at Sunlake supporting me.”

Winborn received looks from other NCAA Division I programs, but it was Florida that ultimately stood out, offering her what she thinks are the best tools to be successful. She explained, “They personally told me they could take me as far as I wanted to go, athletic and academic-wise…and them saying that they could make that possible for me is bottom-line what I wanted to do.”

Sunlake athletic director Reesa Pledge at the ceremony said the group of distance runners “put Sunlake on the map,” adding, “their hard work and dedication has been unmatched by previous by runners that have been here at the school.”

Sunlake track coach Brett Hodros added he was “so proud” to see the distance runners’ efforts being rewarded in the form of scholarships.

“They were doing probably the hardest workouts in the track program,” he said, “because they were definitely putting in the most miles.”

Emphasizing that point, Hodros mentioned when he tries to pitch athletes around the school to join the track team, they question whether they’ll have to put in the same amount of time and effort as long distance runners.

Explained Hodros: “It’s very, very difficult to get people to run track first off, and then they’re like, ‘Oh, you’re not going to be make me run like those distance kids,’ and that’s what these kids did every single day, these four years they’ve been at Sunlake.”

Hodros also read prepared remarks from Sunlake distance coach Randal Reeves, who was unable to make the signing day event.

In a later telephone interview with The Laker/Lutz News, Reeves commended the scholarship recipients for their efforts, and for buying into the distance program.

Said Reeves, “These kids have been leaders amongst the rest of the group in getting everybody together to run as group, really year-round.”

Even more college signings could be on the way for other Sunlake senior distance runners before the year’s end, Reeves said. Eleven of his 12 seniors intend to run at the next level, either through scholarship or as walk-ons.

“The success of the program has really led to a lot of attention to our runners,” he said. “My job is to get them recruited, to put them in the spotlight so they can earn the college scholarship opportunities, where all that hard work pays off.”

Published February 12, 2020

Remembering Pete ‘Hutch’ Brock II, a community servant

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Pete Hutchinson “Hutch” Brock II, a former Dade City mayor who was active in community life — passed away on Jan. 26, at age 54.

Brock served on the Dade City Commission from 2000 to 2004, then as Dade City’s mayor from 2004 to 2008, according to an obituary posted on the Hodges Family Funeral Home website.

“While he was mayor, we had an unprecedented period of annexations – undeveloped property coming into the city of Dade City,” current Commissioner Scott Black told The Laker/Lutz News. “He was looking out for the future sustainability of the city.”

Besides his work as an attorney, involvement in civic life and community service, Pete Hutchison ‘Hutch’ Brock II enjoyed outdoor activities and leisure time with family. (Courtesy of Hodges Family Funeral Home)

Brock also was involved in efforts to revitalize Dade City’s downtown and preserve its historic character, according to current Dade City Mayor Camille Hernandez.

He “brought enthusiasm to the office of mayor” and his leadership left a distinct impression, she said.

“His focus on maintaining the historic charm of Dade City will not be forgotten,” Hernandez added.

Details of his public service were noted on the funeral home’s website and circulated by The Greater Dade City Chamber of Commerce.

Brock was an advocate for youth.

He served on the board of the Pasco Education Foundation, and he supported the work of the Boys & Girls Club in Lacoochee.

He gave of his time and talents for 20 years to Sunrise of Pasco County, an organization that provides shelter and services for survivors of domestic violence.

He maintained memberships with Rotary Clubs in Dade City and Wesley Chapel, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow. He served on the administrative council at his church, too.

Other areas of involvement included advocating for the renewal of Penny for Pasco, a tax initiative that increases Pasco County revenue; and, supporting the efforts of East and Central Pasco Habitat for Humanity, which helps families and individuals obtain affordable housing.

He was a sports enthusiast.

He played baseball and football in his youth, and coached youth baseball, flag football and soccer. He enjoyed outdoor activities, such as boating and fishing.

As a graduate of the University of Florida, he was an unabashed Gator fan.

Born on April 5, 1965, Brock grew up in Dade City. He attended Pasco High School before transferring to Jesuit High School, in Tampa, where he graduated.

After high school, he attended the University of Pennsylvania, before transferring in 1984 to the University of Florida, where he met his wife, Natalie.

He obtained his Bachelor of Science and Business Administration degree in 1987, then a law degree in 1990.

He was hired by Fowler White, a legal firm in Tampa, where he remained four years before moving back to his hometown and becoming a legal partner at Dade City’s Johnson, Auvil, Brock & Pratico, P.A. He remained there for over 17 years.

He launched his own practice, Brock Law LLC, in Wesley Chapel, in 2012. His legal work focused on personal injury, medical malpractice, nursing home neglect and employment disputes.

He and his wife, Natalie, had three sons, Carson, Coleman and Connor Mack, and a daughter, Ashton. Besides his wife and children, he is survived by his father Pete, and two sisters, Nancy and Haley.

Tributes on the funeral home’s website describe Brock as a great man, whose death is a loss for the community.

Commissioner Black seems to share that opinion.

“He’s always going to be revered, that’s for sure. He’ll have that legacy,” Black said.

Published February 05, 2020

Transition made easier, with a little love

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When Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano first learned about the Luggage of Love program, he committed to helping meet its goal of providing displaced children and families with new and/or gently used suitcases.

Luggage of Love is a coordinated effort in Pasco County by the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS)  Pasco County Extension Office.

Elizabeth Urquiola, program coordinator for the Pasco County UF/IFAS Extension Office and Luggage of Love program, shows the suitcases, duffle bags and backpacks donated by the Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office staff members. (Courtesy of Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office)

In the past, children who often travel with caseworkers into foster care, or are otherwise removed from their homes due to emergency situations, have had just a plastic garbage bag for carrying their clothing and personal belongings.

The luggage program adds a measure of dignity to a child who is most likely experiencing one of the most traumatic events in his or her young life.

In other cases, single mothers, often escaping domestic violence, are the recipients of the luggage for themselves and their children.

The Pasco County Tax Collector’s Office staff members recently were able to make two luggage deliveries, as well as a cash donation of $500 to the program to use as needed.

Elizabeth Urquiola, program coordinator for the UF/IFAS Pasco County Extension Office and Luggage of Love program, said the money will be used for more luggage tags and a better logo stamp that also are provided.

“It is heartbreaking to think that a child or a mother in distress may only have plastic garbage bags which they use to carry their belongings,” said Fasano, in a news release.

He added, “I am so proud of our staff who rose to the occasion and donated everything from suitcases to duffle bags and backpacks for this incredible charity.”

To learn more about the Luggage of Love program, call Elizabeth Urquiola at (352) 521-1254, ext. 5325.

To donate luggage and for information, call Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector, at (727) 847-8179.

Published February 05, 2020

Inspiring others with lyrical rhymes

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In celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Saint Leo University added a hip-hop element — showcasing the rapper Duke.

The Jan. 21 event was a part of the school’s weeklong series, recognizing the iconic civil rights leader.

Duke shared his story and inspirational words – sometimes conveyed through rap lyrics.

Audrey Ward, left, stands alongside Bunduki ‘Duke’ Ramadan and Juan Carvajal.
Ramadan shared his life story through songs at a Jan. 21 event in commemoration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Brian Fernandes)

He noted his lyrics often are influenced by the words of the slain civil rights leader, the nation pauses to remember each year.

“He always tried to approach it from a positive light, and that really influenced me and my work,” he said.

Duke, born Bunduki Ramadan, said even before he was born, adversities have influenced his life, and those experiences led to his rap career.

His mother was still pregnant with him when his family fled during a civil war, from their native Sudan to Egypt.

Because of birth complications, Duke was pronounced dead upon delivery, but then was revived.

“By the grace of God, the baby gasps and begins to cry. That baby, that baby was me. That was my first time beating the odds,” he told those gathered.

The difficult birth, however, resulted in a health disorder that limited the use of his right arm.

His family relocated from Egypt to Jacksonville, Florida, where he grew up.

His brush with death, coupled with the encouragement of his parents, compelled him to push forward, despite his disability, the 27-year-old said.

Music has been a focal point in his life.

It started with his first attempt at rapping, during fifth grade.

Over the years, he has drawn inspiration from other hip-hop artists, such as Tupac Shakur, Kendrick Lamar and Kanye West.

Besides enjoying the art form, Duke said it has been a therapeutic source for channeling his frustration.

Among other kids at school, he said, he felt like an outsider, being “caught up in the gray middle.”

Duke noted that at times he was picked on for his dark skin complexation.

During a rap intermission, he explained the range of emotions felt when faced with bullying.

In one verse, he rhymes: “Cool on the surface, but it’s like the oven on.”

He went on: “Music has such a strong impact on your mood, your mentality and your mindset.”

Likening music to food, he cautioned the audience to be selective with what they consume.

He also touched on education.

He told Saint Leo students that by being at the university, they’ve already beaten the odds.

He attended the University of Florida, majoring in economics.

After graduating, he received several lucrative job opportunities.

But, he turned them down.

“My dream was to pursue my music and be able to use that as a tool to motivate people,” Duke explained.

Eventually, he moved to Atlanta to pursue that dream.

He fell upon some hard times, financially.

At one point, he was sleeping in his car.

In one of his song’s, he poses this question: “Now am I really selling my soul, or am I doing what I got to do to get to the goal?”

By working consistently in a music studio and forming new connections, he was able to build a name as a rap artist, he recalled.

Now, he performs hip-hop shows several times a month across the nation.

Delivering motivational speeches at schools also is on his agenda.

He has built clientele through his own marketing agency.

He described his success in another song — getting the audience to rap along.

The audience repeated the lyrics, as Duke rhymed: “I got some food on my plate, thank God. I got some money in the bank, thank God. My whole family is straight, thank God.”

He references Dr. King’s legacy as hope that each coming generation will struggle less than the one before it.

In his acclaimed 1963 speech, “I Have a Dream,” King said: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”

Duke said he’s seen some progress. He said he would like to start a family one day, and he believes his children won’t have to face the same prejudice he experienced.

Duke said there’s power and value in gratitude.

“I want people to be grateful for what they have now,” Duke said. “Being grateful for what you have now is what paves the way for you to have more in the future.”

Published January 29, 2020

Two Hillsborough women to be honored

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A Valentine’s Day ceremony and luncheon is being organized by the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough County to celebrate two women of distinction.

The 15th annual Lifetime Achievement Award Luncheon will honor Liana Fernandez Fox, Ph.D., and the late Dena Gross Leavengood, according to a posting on the Hillsborough County website.

The event will take place on the day that coincides with the 100th anniversary of the founding of the League of Women Voters.

Fox and Leavengood are being honored for their contributions to the local community, and to the state of Florida.

The Feb. 14 event is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Bryan Glazer Family JCC, 522 N. Howard Avenue, in Tampa. Lorna Taylor, president & CEO of Premier Eye Care, will serve as emcee.

Fox represents the fourth generation of her Cuban and Sicilian ancestors in Tampa.

She began her career as a statistician for Florida’s State Road Department in 1969.

She retired as full professor of mathematics, after teaching for five years at Tampa Catholic High School and 33 years for Hillsborough Community College in Ybor City, and at the University of South Florida.

She pioneered the offering of online mathematics courses for HCC.

She currently is a trustee for the Tampa Bay History Center and president of the board of directors at Champions for Children.

Fox remains active at USF, serving on the Dean’s Advisory Council of Arts & Sciences, USF’s Women in Leadership and Philanthropy (WLP) and the USF Latin Community Advisory

Committee.

And, those are just a few of Fox’s accomplishments.

Leavengood, who passed away last year, was a Florida native and a marine biologist who was known for her community activism.

She graduated with a zoology degree from the University of Florida and received her Masters from USF. Her education and training launched a career that would span decades of activism and professional accomplishments. Dena was a tireless civic volunteer and was affiliated with countless organizations, including past president and board member of the League of Women Voters of Hillsborough County, the Athena Society, Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida and the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce to name but a few.

Registration for the event is available at HCLWV.org/laa.

Published January 08, 2020