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Collier Parkway

Easter services are evolving, amidst pandemic

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There was so much uncertainty last year about COVID-19 that many churches changed up their Easter celebrations, to reduce potential spread of the disease.

A year later, many churches across the region continue to use a variety of approaches in celebrating Christianity’s most significant holy day.

Last year, for instance, Idlewild Baptist Church, at 18333 Exciting Idlewild Blvd., in Lutz, relied on online services to celebrate Easter. This year, it will be holding a number of in-person services.

The First United Methodist Church of Land O’ Lakes, at 6209 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., livestreamed its Easter service last year. This year, it will have an in-person service.

Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, at 2348 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes, created a more personal touch for its online services last year, by attaching photographs of parishioners on chairs — so officiants could look at them, while saying Mass.

This year, the church will have in-person services — while limiting the size of the crowds.

Last year, Myrtle Lake Baptist Church, 2018 Riegler Road, in Land O’ Lakes had a drive-in Easter service and it will do that again this year, on April 4 at 10:30 a.m.

Meanwhile, Grace Community Church, at 7107 Boyette Road in Wesley Chapel, will switch from the drive-in service it had last year to an in-person worship service on April 4 at 10:30 a.m. After the service, families will be able to take advantage of a photo booth, to pose for their Easter pictures. Last year, families shot selfies in their cars.

AdventHealth Zephyrhills will have its 36th annual Easter Sunrise Service at 7 a.m., on April 4, virtually, via Facebook.com/adventhealthzephyrhills. The event was held virtually last year, too, after decades of conducting the service on the hospital’s lawn.

Meanwhile, across the Catholic Diocese of St. Petersburg, Bishop Gregory Parkes has kept protocols in place for the nearly 500,000 Catholics in Tampa Bay Area, according to a Diocesan news release.

Those protective measures include social distancing, sanitizing and the use of face coverings.

Church holy water fonts remain empty and collection baskets are not circulated, the news release says.

Bishop Parkes also has kept in place the general dispensation from Sunday Mass at this time.

If you’re interested in attending an Easter service, be sure to check your local church to get the latest details on services. Many places of worship require reservations, so be sure to check soon to reserve your spot.

Published March 31, 2021

Bell Lake Road detour begins March 10

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Pasco County has announced that Bell Lake Road will be temporarily closed, from Lake Padgett Drive to Peninsular Drive, starting March 10 at 5 a.m., and running through March 22, at 7 a.m.

The closure is part of the Bell Lake Road Reconstruction Project.

Although scheduled detour dates are from the evening of March 10 until the morning of March 22, those are subject to change, depending on weather conditions

During the closure, those west of the portion that is closed can take Bell Lake Road west to U.S. 41. At U.S. 41, they can head north traveling toward Hale Road, or south, traveling toward State Road 54.

Those east of the closure, can travel east on Bell Lake Road to Collier Parkway. At Collier Parkway, they can head north to Hale Road, where they can head west on Hale Road to get to U.S. 41.

Or, they can head east on Bell Lake Road to Collier Parkway, and then go south on Collier Parkway to get to State Road 54.

During the closure, residents will have access to their homes, via various subdivision streets. Also, emergency vehicles will  have access.

The project that is being completed consists of extensive infrastructure and safety improvements – including road reconstruction, stormwater modifications, curb and sidewalk.

Land O’ Lakes Little League celebrates 50th anniversary

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Let the games begin!

The start of each Little League season often elicits a heightened level of nostalgia.

With spring in the air, youth of all ages and skills partake in America’s favorite pastime, testing their mettle on the mound, at the plate and in the field.

Sixteen-year-old Jaclynn Neel improvises the use of her baseball mitt as a protective mask, as she waits to throw the ceremonial first pitch for the girls’ softball teams. (Fred Bellet)

Pitches are thrown. Bats are swung. Balls are caught. Games are won or lost.

And along the way, life lessons, sportsmanship and lasting friendships are cultivated.

For Land O’ Lakes Little League, this year’s Opening Day festivities took on an added significance: The organization celebrated its 50th anniversary on Feb. 27, at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, off Collier Parkway.

The organization actually formed back in 1967 at the Land O’ Lakes Community Center (now Heritage Park) off U.S. 41, but it didn’t receive its first Little League charter until 1971.

The local league has come a long way since its initial start-up — boasting upwards of 800 boys and girls, ages 4 to 16, playing baseball and softball across 10 fields.

And, the league found a way kick off its semicentenary season in memorable fashion, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bounce houses and face painting, and other kid-centric interactive activities were noticeably absent due to coronavirus precautions.

While waiting for the 50th anniversary ceremony to begin, 4-year-old Lincoln Maxim, 4, gets a little tender loving care from his mother, Jodie Maxim, of Land O’ Lakes. Lincoln plays for the Atlanta Braves T-ball team.

The large ballfield took center stage in the league’s season-opening event.

Teams from all age divisions were spread across the infield and outfield, signaling the league’s staying power and sustained growth.

First pitches were accurately thrown from veteran baseball players, as well softball Little League players.

Local players sang the national anthem and read the league pledge.

There was the unveiling, too, of a framed 50th anniversary “golden ticket” issued and signed Little League International Headquarters, which is based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Of course, there was plenty of action.

Ballgames were played from morning to night.

It was a special day that was long-awaited by Little Leaguers, such as 16-year-old Damien Lampe, who caught a ceremonial first pitch from left-hander Max Folkman.

Partaking in the longstanding pregame ritual is something Lampe won’t soon forget, given that it came during the celebration of the league’s 50th season. “Throughout the years I’ve been here and I’ve seen lots of people catch (the first pitch), so it’s kind of cool,” he said.

Lampe — like countless others — weren’t able enjoy the full Little League experience last spring, as the season was cut drastically short due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I was itching at home just to do something baseball-related, whether it was just watching it or like playing on video games, just something,” he said.

Lampe plays his fair share of travel ball and varsity ball at Land O’ Lakes High School, but the Land O’ Lakes Little League experience also holds its share of significance.

He was a part of league history as a member of the 2019 all-star senior team that won a state crown and reached regionals. The team’s banner is proudly displayed along the fence line of one of the park’s concession stands.

“That was a great group of kids,” Lampe recalled. “I really bonded with them and felt really close to them, and we’re all still good friends now, and it was just so much fun to travel around and play with them.”

Lampe started in the organization when he was 4, playing T-ball. This will be his final year, before aging out of the league.

Seven-year-old Kelvin Kinney, of Land O’ Lakes, a player for the Athletics, shows good sportsmanship and gives the thumbs-up signal to 7-year-old Remy Perez-Velasco, of the Nationals.

“It’s a great community,” Lampe said of Land O’ Lakes Little League. “I mean, I know, I’ve been here for so long I know almost all these kids that play. It’s fun. It’s just great to come out here and have fun.”

He also commended the countless volunteers and 20-plus board members who keep the league running smoothly: “They work so hard to keep this place clean and professional, and it’s really nice.”

It’s about more than wins and losses
The beauty of the organization is it’s a recreational format.

It welcomes the novice player that may never make an all-star team or play high school ball, to others who have the potential to earn college scholarships and maybe play professionally someday.

“I think every kid should play Little League,” said Land O’ Lakes Little League President Gary Gwinn, whose five children have taken part.

“The atmosphere of Little League is — the kids come here, they’re out here to have fun, they make new friends — friends for life — and, there’s stuff that’s going to have happen at this Little League that’s going to last forever.”

Gwinn joined the organization 18 years ago.

The league is about more than wins, losses or the number of runs scored, he said.

Alissa Canter, vice president of Land O’ Lakes Little League, holds the 50th anniversary charter with league president Gary Gwinn. Canter is outgoing VP.

Its focus is on playing fair, having the opportunity to play and developing traits that are important both on and off the field, he said.

“We’re here to give these kids structure, to teach them sportsmanship, just how to be a responsible person,” Gwinn said.

One of his most gratifying experiences, is guiding those kids that may not be as gifted athletically “and making them realize and believe in themselves,” he said.

“I’m a true believer in Little League,” Gwinn said.

Fostering a family atmosphere
League secretary Monica Woods offers a similar upbeat outlook about the popular youth baseball and softball sports organization.

“Every day that you’re up here, you’re going to see somebody get their first hit,” she said.

“You’re going to see a boy or a girl that got a chance to pitch and they might struggle, and then something clicks and their coach will say the right thing, and they’ll start throwing strikes.”

Woods’ involvement in Land O’ Lakes Little League has come full circle.

Her husband and son, Hayden, are now coaching a team in the league together.

Jackie Boyett, of Land O’ Lakes, holds her excited daughter, 4-year-old Jordan Boyett, as the little girl celebrates her first year in Little League.

Hayden recently aged out after a long run in the league, but still wanted to stay involved as a volunteer.

“It’s sad that he’s not playing, but I still get to see him in a different light, he’s doing what he loves and he’s out here with his dad, and it’s still a family thing,” Woods said.

The parent and volunteer still looks back on memories of her son and group of friends longing to head to the Little League for practices and games: “This was just like their mall. They would just come here and hang out.”

League vice president Alissa Canter also remains heavily involved, despite her two sons graduating from the league.

“It’s a wonderful experience,” Canter said. “I mean, the progression of seeing them from starting at T-ball all the way up to the big senior field here, and the all-star experiences are just amazing. It’s a lot of great memories, great experiences for the kids, and it’s like your family away from home.”

That’s the hope for new league parents like Jackie Boyett.

Boyett played in the organization’s softball league when she was growing up.

Now her 4-year-old daughter, Jordan, has joined a T-ball league.

And, like many other players, the little girl had her own personal fan club at the ballpark — with her mom, grandparents, aunt and uncle to cheer her on.

Some of Boyett’s best memories of Land O’ Lakes Little League revolve around opening day.

And, now, there’s a new generation in her family to keep that tradition alive.

“I’m happy for (Jordan) to experience it,” Boyette said.

Published March 03, 2021

Bell Lake Road detour planned in March

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A portion of Bell Lake Road will be closed from Lake Padgett Drive to Peninsular Drive for eight days in mid-March, to allow safety work to be completed on the road.

The road closure in Land O’ Lakes is scheduled to commence at 5 p.m., on March 13 and will continue until 7 a.m., on March 22.

Kamminga & Roodvoets Inc., requested the detour, in order to complete the project. The Pasco County Commission approved the detour request at its Feb. 9 board meeting.

During the closure, those west of the portion that is closed, can take Bell Lake Road west to U.S. 41. At U.S. 41, they can head north traveling toward Hale Road, or south, traveling toward State Road 54.

Those east of the closure, can travel east on Bell Lake Road to Collier Parkway. At Collier Parkway, they can head north to Hale Road, where they can head west on Hale Road to get to U.S. 41.

Or, they can head east on Bell Lake Road to Collier Parkway, and then go south on Collier Park to get to State Road 54.

The project that is being completed consists of extensive infrastructure and safety improvements – including road reconstruction, stormwater modifications, curb and sidewalk – along Bell Lake Road, from east of U.S. 41 to Banjo Lake Road.

The current open ditch stormwater system will be converted to a closed, piped system.

This improvement allows room for sidewalks and reduces drop-off hazard related to the current ditches.

The new roadway will include one 12-foot lane in each direction, curb and gutter, and a 6-foot sidewalk on the north side of Bell Lake Road.

The speed limit is 30 mph.

For additional information, call Matt Kodsi, project manager, at 727-834-3604, or call Pasco County Traffic Operations at 727-847-8139.

Published February 17, 2021

Retired marine gets surprise bench

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Otis Felder, a retired U.S. Marine, was already having a pretty good Veterans Day — even before he made his daily trek to the dog park at the Land O’ Lakes Recreational Complex, off Collier Parkway.

He’d started the day by catching up with some of his fellow Marines on Facebook, and was feeling pretty good about that.

Then, when he and his basset hound, Chopper, arrived at the dog park, his day got even better.

Judy Hudson arrived early at Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex’s dog park on Veterans Day because she wanted to put up these patriotic balloons along the chain-link fence of the compound. (B.C. Manion)

Patriotic balloons bobbed from the perimeter of the chain-link fence at the compound, and there was a big surprise waiting inside.

His friends, Judy Hudson and Leslie Friedel, of Wesley Chapel, shouted out greetings to Felder.

“What’s up?” Felder asked, as he entered the dog park’s gates.

Hudson encouraged him to check out the new bench there.

As he approached it, he realized that the bench was dedicated to him.

“In honor of Otis Felder,” it says. “Thank you for 20 years of service.”

Below those words there’s an image of a flapping American flag.

“Holy mackerel,” the 84-year-old Felder said.  “I’m really impressed. Wow.

“I never expected anything like that.

“Well, who did this?” he asked.

Hudson was not forthcoming: “I guess, God,” she replied.

“It’s awesome,” said the veteran, whose 20 years in the Marine Corps included two tours of duty in Vietnam, and assignments in such places as California, Japan, Indonesia, Thailand, Virginia, Hawaii, North Carolina and Michigan.

Otis Felder finds out that the new bench at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex’s dog park is dedicated to him. The surprise presentation happened on Nov. 11, which is Veterans Day. Felder served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 20 years.

Planning for the Nov. 11 surprise started a few months ago, Hudson said.

That’s when she began reaching out to see if she could persuade a company to donate a bench to honor Felder.

It took persistence, but the work paid off when Polly Products, a company based in Mulliken, Michigan, agreed to provide the bench.

Next, Tommy D’Iorio, a park site supervisor for the Pasco County parks, recreation and natural resources department, made sure his team assembled the bench for the big surprise.

They even wrapped it up, to make sure no one sat on it before Felder.

Hudson and Susan Bernardino, another one of Felder’s friends, chipped in to pay the shipping costs for the bench.

The parks department spruced up the dog park, too, in honor of Felder’s special day.

As a finishing touch, Hudson brought a chocolate sheet cake, decked out with frosting depicting an American flag.

The three friends and their dogs, enjoyed their time together — despite a light, persistent  rain.

Otis Felder, who served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 20 years, tests out a bench that honors his military service. It’s in the dog park at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, which Felder visits daily.

Hudson, who has known Felder for 10 years, was pleased to pay tribute to her friend.

“It’s my honor to do it for him,” she said.

People come and go to the dog park, as they move into and out of the area — but some who have moved away still make it a point to come back to see Felder, she said.

Even some who have lost their dog continue to drop by to chat with him, she added.

“He’s become a fixture,” Hudson said.

Friedel, a user of the dog park for four years, speaks fondly of Felder.

“I love Uncle Otis. He’s great. I love his stories,” she said.

She’s happy that he was honored.

“I freaking love it,” she said. “I think that’s awesome.”

Felder, who has been married 54 years to his wife, Janet, lives in Land O’ Lakes. Their son, Otis, is an attorney in California and their son, Dallas, is an architect in Chicago. A third son, Jason, is deceased.

Besides retiring from his military career, Felder worked for 21 years in the brewery industry, before retiring and doing some additional contract work in that field. He also was a chauffeur and an armored car driver, before he finally stopped working at the age of 72.

With such a full life, he has plenty of tales to share and he often shares them with his friends at the dog park.

Hudson said Felder is particularly fond of telling people: “That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.”

For her part, she thinks Felder is a special man, whose story is worth sharing.

Published November 18, 2020

Elections supervisor encourages early voting, vote by mail

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For Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley, it’s quite the busy time of year.

His agency on Sept. 24 sent out its mass mailing of approximately120,000 vote-by-mail ballots to residents — roughly a third of the agency’s voter registry file — for the upcoming Nov. 3 general election.

Simultaneously, the elections office is readying early voting sites.

Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley was the featured speaker at an East Pasco Networking Group meeting earlier this month. (File)

The early voting cycle will run for 13 days from Oct. 19 through Oct. 31, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., each day.

The county added three new early sites bringing its total up to record-high 14 locations for the presidential election, said Corley, who was the guest speaker at an East Pasco Networking Group  meeting at IHOP in Dade City this month.

New sites include Veterans Memorial Park gymnasium in Hudson; J. Ben Harrill Recreation Complex in Hudson; and, the newly opened Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus in Wesley Chapel.

Another early voting site change — the larger Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex gymnasium will be used in place of the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Collier Parkway, typically the county’s most heavily trafficked site, Corley said.

The elections leader credited Pasco County administrator Dan Biles for approving the early voting location additions and changes — particularly the one in Land O’ Lakes — in the name of accommodating more voters and allowing for social distancing protocols.

“We like big rooms for early voting sites,” Corley told the audience. “Basically, we’re going to be using the (Land O’ Lakes) gymnasium for 13 days. That’s a big ask for the county.”

With that, Corley assured there’s myriad measures in place to ensure the safety of poll workers and voters alike, in regards to the coronavirus.

That includes installation of plexiglass shields around electronic poll books, one-use styluses, hand sanitizer, disinfectants and spacing booths further apart. Many of those procedures helped the August primaries go “very, very smoothly,” Corley noted.

The elections supervisor would go on to discuss the county’s vote-by-mail processes — assuring it’s a safe and secure method to utilize for eligible voters.

He pointed out his agency was the first in the state to implement “Ballot Scout,” a tool which uses scan data for voters to track the delivery of their vote-by-mail ballot through the United States Postal Service (USPS). Voters can view the status of their ballot as being mailed, in transit, or delivered, via text or email notifications.

“You can track your ballot like an Amazon package,” said Corley. “You can see when we sent it out. On our end, we can tell you exactly where it is. When it comes to our office, it’ll automatically text you, ‘We got your ballot back.’”

(File)

Vote-by-mail ballots can be requested up to 5 p.m., Oct. 24 at PascoVotes.com, calling (800) 851-8754, or in writing to P.O. Box 300 Dade City, Florida, 33526.

Also on the topic, Corley defended the postal service, which has been politicized in recent months over nationwide concerns about rejected or uncounted mailing ballots.

To avert those issues, the earlier a ballot is mailed, the better, Corley emphasized.

Because vote-by-mail ballots must be received no later than 7 p.m., on Election Day, Corley said, it’s an unwise proposition for someone to postmark a ballot the actual day of the election and expect it to be delivered in time of the deadline.

As an example, placing a ballot in the mailbox at, say, noon on election day may result in your vote not being counted, he said. He noted there were about 600 uncounted ballots returned to his office after 7 p.m., on the date of the Aug. 18 primary.

“That’s not the USPS’s fault,” Corley said. “Let the voter take some responsibility, and get it back early.”

Those who remain leery about vote by mail, or uncomfortable stepping indoors to cast their vote, there’s also an option to bring an absentee ballot to early voting site drop boxes staffed by poll deputies, Corley explained. Ballots in the drop boxes are securely returned to the elections office headquarters at the end of each day.

“It’s like you’re literally handing it to one of my staff — it doesn’t get any more secure than that,” Corley said.

The elections supervisor also talked about the importance of his agency cultivating important partnerships with other county government agencies, such as the school district, sheriff’s office, tax collector’s office and clerk’s office.

That came to a head in this year’s municipal and primary elections, when the agency had some 300 poll workers opt out amid fears related to the COVID-19 pandemic. (The county’s average poll worker age is 66 years old, Corley said.) “I couldn’t blame them,” he said.

To help make up for the shortage, Corley enlisted help from Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning, who sent a memo asking if any district employees wanted to fill in as poll workers.

The interest, response and results were overwhelming positive, the elections supervisor said.

“We had more than we needed,” Corley said. “We had teachers, school personnel that had never been a poll worker, never had any training, show up on election day and then hit it out of the park for us.”

Voting in Pasco and Hillsborough counties
The deadline is Oct. 5 to register for the Nov. 3 General Election.

Early voting in Pasco County is Oct. 19 through Oct. 31, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., each day. The county has a record-high 14 early voting sites. To find out more, visit PascoVotes.org.

Early voting in Hillsborough County is Oct. 19 through Nov. 1, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., each day. Hillsborough County has 26 early voting sites. To find out more, visit VoteHillsborough.org.

Published September 30, 2020

Pasco keeps growing, despite COVID-19

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Business in Pasco County is coming back to life as residents, weary of a pandemic-enforced lockdown, venture back to the world of shopping and dining.

There are hopeful signs for commercial rebirth.

Continued residential growth in Bexley by Newland Communities generates foot traffic for nearby shops, restaurants, grocery stores and other small businesses. (B.C. Manion)

Neon “open” signs are visible in storefronts.

Banners planted at the roadside’s edge wave at passing motorists.

Parking lots at malls and shopping centers are filling up again.

But, it’s not just the established businesses that are reviving Pasco’s economy. Business owners and developers continue to invest in new retail especially along one of the county’s busiest east/west corridors – State Road 54 and State Road 56.

On State Road 54, west of U.S. 41, The Preserve Marketplace and two retail centers at Starkey Ranch are adding shops, restaurants, health care services, and offices.

At Bexley Ranch, in Land O’ Lakes, land is being cleared and leveled on Lot A for the Bexley South Office Park, off Bexley Village Drive, near Springhill Suites.

A Crunch Fitness is scheduled to open Aug. 25, off State Road 54 in Trinity.

This sign signals future plans for a car wash, just south of the new Aldi that opened at Cypress Creek Town Center. (B.C. Manion)

Meanwhile, on the State Road 54/56 corridor east of U.S. 41, there are new developments, too.

Near the juncture of State Road 56 and Interstate 75, a banner announces that Tidal Wave Auto Spa is coming to an outparcel at Tampa Premium Outlets.

In the same general area, Main Event, a 50,000-square-foot entertainment venue, celebrated its grand opening less than two weeks ago.

And, another Crunch Fitness is planning to open in October in the old Winn-Dixie location, off Collier Parkway and State Road 54, in Land O’ Lakes.

The Collier Parkway location is a great choice for a fitness gym because it’s along a high traffic corridor, said Geoff Dyer, president of Crunch Fitness. “It’s in the heart of the (Land O’ Lakes) neighborhood,” he said.

Crunch Fitness is planning to open a gym in October in the former Winn-Dixie grocery store, at State Road 54 and Collier Parkway. An employee manned a display outside the site to take membership applications. Another Crunch Fitness is opening Aug. 25, off State Road 54, in Trinity. (Kathy Steele)

During the COVID-19 shutdown, work continued on the Trinity and Land O’ Lakes locations, Dyer said, adding, “for all intents and purposes, we haven’t seen any slow-down in our developments.”

He noted that Crunch Fitness gyms shut down for about two months at the start of the pandemic, but now the gyms are open and adhering to safety guidelines of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Membership has returned to about 95% of what it was pre-shutdown,” Dyer said.

While activity, in general, appears to be picking up and new construction continues to kick up dirt — a cloud hovers over business decisions due to the uncertain nature of COVID-19.

Ralph Santell and his family moved to Starkey Ranch and began plans to open Santelli Pizza & Pasta nearly three years ago. They saw the growth happening in Pasco.

His storefront is at Starkey Ranch Town Square, a plaza located at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway. A few tenants in the center, including J. Joseph Salon, are open.

Santelli Pizza & Pasta will open around September at Starkey Ranch Town Square, at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway. (Kathy Steele)

Santell plans to open by September, possibly with outdoor dining and takeout. He said he’ll decide closer to opening whether he’ll initially offer indoor dining.

“That (COVID-19) has been an extra challenge that influences things on a daily basis,” Santell said. “It’s been hard to navigate the whole COVID-19 situation. We take it one day at a time.”

Santell also owns a restaurant in the Westchase subdivision in Hillsborough County. That restaurant closed, then reopened, but is now closed again — except for takeout.

Another Starkey Ranch retail center at State Road 54 and Heart Pine Avenue – Starkey Ranch Business Park – also has a roster of tenants slated to open, including The Wicked Pour, Tropical Smoothie Café and Hungry Greek.

The pandemic slowed opening plans, but construction on the retail park is nearly finished.

“All of these are coming along,” said Matt Call, project director for Starkey Ranch. “With COVID-19, things take a bit longer.”

Additional outparcels at both retail centers are available for development — though it could take longer to get projects going, Call added.

Typically, residential construction is a key to spurring on new retail, Call said.

He said Starkey Ranch and Bexley by Newland are the top residential sellers in the Tampa Bay area. Together, they add about 800 residential units annually to Pasco, he said.

Work is underway on the Bainbridge Sunlake, an upscale apartment development, being built at Mentmore Boulevard and State Road 54, next to The Shoppes at Sunlake Centre. (B.C. Manion)

Pasco also is on an apartment building spree with about nine complexes planned or under construction.

Near the Tampa Premium Outlets and Cypress Creek Town Center, Brightwork Crossing apartment complex is attracting new renters to the commercial epicenter of the Wesley Chapel area.

Two Altis apartment complexes, one by Wiregrass Ranch on State Road 56 and a second on South Branch Boulevard at Starkey Ranch, are adding to Pasco tenant population.

Bainbridge Sunlake is an upscale apartment complex being built at State Road 54, and Mentmore Boulevard, next to The Shoppes at Sunlake Centre.

A new standalone Starbucks is coming soon to the Sunlake shopping center, as well.

Retail developments, including The Preserve Marketplace, are adding new tenants, including the recently opened anchor store – Greenwise. Majik Touch Cleaners is open, too.

Other tenants with plans to open include Chipotle, Heartland Dental and CVS Pharmacy.

“It’s going to be a cool little plaza when it’s done,” Call said. “I think Pasco is going to continue to grow. There’s no doubt in my mind.”

What’s happening along State Road 54
Here are some of the office, retail or residential developments that have opened or are in progress along State Road 54.

Construction on a dental office is nearing completion at Starkey Ranch Town Square, at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway. (Kathy Steele)

The Preserve Marketplace (State Road 54 and the Suncoast Parkway)

  • Greenwise Market, owned by Publix, is a specialty grocery store offering an array of organic and natural food products.
  • TouchPoint Medical manufactures medical dispensing equipment, including high-tech carts.
  • Organic Nails offers nail art and design services.
  • Heartland Dental provides administrative support and career development services among a network of dental partnerships
  • CVS Pharmacy is a national chain of drugstores.
  • Majik Touch Cleaners provides laundry and dry-cleaning services in Pasco and the Tampa Bay area.
  • Sport Clips provides haircuts for men and boys.
  • Panera Bread is a national chain that serves sandwiches, salads and pastries.
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill is a national chain restaurant serving made-to-order burritos, tacos, wraps and salads.
The Wicked Pour and Hungry Greek will open soon at Starkey Ranch Business Park, at State Road 54 and Heart Pine Avenue. (Kathy Steele)

Starkey Ranch Business Park (State Road 54 and Heart Pine Avenue)

  • The Wicked Pour is a craft beer, wine and taproom with board games, giant Jenga and cornhole.
  • Hungry Greek is a casual restaurant chain offering fast Greek food.
  • Urgent Vet offers after-hours care for pet illnesses and emergencies.
  • Abela Story, a women’s boutique, offers trendy styles for all tastes, and accessories.
  • Encore Nail Salon provides nail art and design, and other services.
  • Chase Bank is a full-service bank.
  • YogaSix is a hot yoga-style studio.
E sushi and Grill, a Japanese restaurant, is expected to open soon at Starkey Ranch Town Square, at State Road 54 and Gunn Highway. (Kathy Steele)

Starkey Ranch Town Square (State Road 54 and Gunn Highway)

  • Santelli Pizza & Pasta is a family-owned Italian restaurant with pizzas and pasta dishes.
  • E sushi & Grill is a Japanese restaurant.
  • J. Joseph Salon is a luxury hair salon.
  • Great Clips is a discount, walk-in hair salon.
  • Quality Plus Cleaners provides laundry and dry-cleaning services.
  • The UPS Store offers mailing, printing and mailbox services.
  • A dental office, which has not yet been identified, is on the outparcel across from Santelli Pizza.

Published July 29, 2020

Places you can turn to for help in Pasco, Hillsborough counties

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Pick up paper unemployment forms
Both Hillsborough and Pasco counties are handing out paper unemployment forms at specific libraries.

Hillsborough County
The location near The Laker/Lutz News coverage area is at Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave. The library’s drive-thru will be open seven days a week, from 9:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Once completed, residents also can drop off the forms at either drive-through, and library staff will mail the documents for them.

Pasco County
Printed unemployment forms will be available just outside the entrance to these libraries, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area:

  • Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes
  • Hugh Embry Library, 14215 Fourth St., in Dade City

If you’re unable to visit a library in person and would like to request a blank application form by mail, please contact the library at "> or through the “Ask A Librarian” feature at PascoLibraries.org.

Once completed, residents can mail the form to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.

For more information about Pasco County Libraries, including the library catalog, E-content,  programs, events and links to all Pasco County Library branches, visit PascoLibraries.org.

Hillsborough County emergency help
As the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) fallout continues, Hillsborough County officials are reminding residents about assistance available to help people meet their food needs.

Here is a look at some programs:

  • Hillsborough residents age 60 and older can apply for food assistance through Hillsborough County Aging services. There is no income requirement to participate in the federally funded program. To find out more, call (813) 2727-5250.
  • Feeding Tampa Bay is offering drive-thru distribution of free, pre-packaged groceries to Hillsborough County residents in need. Distribution is on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at Hillsborough Community College’s Dale Mabry campus, 4001 W. Tampa Bay Blvd., in Tampa. Check Feeding Tampa Bay’s website before the events, to be sure there have been no changes. To find out about other food assistance programs and information, visit FeedingTampaBay.org, or call (813) 254-1190.
  • Tampa YMCA Veggie Van is distributing free pre-packaged bags of produce in several neighborhoods in Hillsborough County. No ID, paperwork or pre-screening is required to receive the food. Learn more, visit Tampa Veggie Van on Facebook.
  • SNAP recipients across the state starting April 21 will be able to use EBT cards to make eligible food purchases from Walmart and Amazon online.

Pasco Planning and development open online
Pasco County’s planning and development department is only accepting electronic submittals via its online portals. It is not accepting hard copy application packages, hard copy re-submittals or checks.

All project information must be uploaded in Accela and all payments must be made online via e-check ($1.99 fee) or credit card (2.65% fee) through the Accela Citizen Access (ACA) portal.

To communicate with the department, reach out to a specific staff member, via email or telephone. You can email general questions to , or call (727) 847-8142.

Tips for reducing stress
Here are some suggestions from the National Alliance on Mental Illness to help reduce potential stress and anxiety, as the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) global pandemic disrupts our daily lives.

Manage how you consume information
Equip yourself with information from credible, reputable sources, such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). See “Basic information” section for more links.

Be selective about how you consume news. It’s generally a good idea to stay engaged and informed. Having some limits on your news consumption can help:

  • Watching or listening to the same news constantly can increase stress. Reading can be an easier medium to control how much and what kind of information you’re absorbing.
  • Set limits on when and for how long you consume news and information, including through social media. It may help you to choose a couple of 15-minute blocks each day when you will check news/social media and limit your news consumption to that time.
  • False information spreads very easily on social media and can have serious consequences for individual and public health. Always verify sources and make sure they are reputable, especially before sharing anything.

Follow healthy daily routines as much as possible
Your daily habits and routines can help you feel more in control of your own well-being.

Even simple actions can make a difference:

  • Make your bed
  • Get dressed
  • Connect with loved ones
  • Move your body
  • Make time for breaks
  • If possible, take regular short breaks during work or between shifts. During these breaks, go outside and engage in physical activity if you can.
  • Practice good hygiene, especially by cleaning your hands
  • Get enough regular sleep, it is critical for your immune system
  • Eat nutritious food as much as possible, especially fruits and vegetables

Published April 22, 2020

Under Construction 02/05/2020

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Bonefish Grill emerging in Lutz
A Bonefish Grill restaurant is one of three Bloomin’ Brands restaurants being built in Lutz. At 2526 Sierra Center Blvd., the eatery will be in the same vicinity of an Aussie Grill and Carrabba’s Italian Grill, at Cypress Creek Town Center. At roughly 6,000 square feet, the building’s inside will be feature custom booths, and both a lounge and bar situated at the restaurant’s center. Construction is anticipated to finish in May.

Contracting company opening in Dade City
A Phillips and Jordan regional office is currently being built in Dade City. Located at 30115 State Road 52, the 15,600-square-foot structure will be three stories. The contracting company focuses on heavy civil construction, right of way construction and disaster relief. Construction completion has not been scheduled yet.

New car dealership on State Road 56
The Volkswagen Dealership of Wesley Chapel will join the chain of dealerships running along State Road 56, in Wesley Chapel. The 25,000-square-foot structure will be at 26500 Silver Maple Parkway. Aside from multiple offices, it will feature a service bay, showroom and outdoor carwash. Construction is scheduled to be completed in November.

New office plaza coming to Lutz
The Willowbend Offices plaza is currently being developed in Lutz. The structure is  located off of State Road 54 on Collier Parkway, heading southbound. The site is on the east end of Collier Parkway, adjacent to The Reading Corner school. The 12,190-square-foot development will consist of two separate buildings for office and medical space. A construction completion date has not been determined yet.

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

Navigating the choppy waters of divorce

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It’s that time of year, when bakeries, florists and jewelers are busy — in the approach to Valentine’s Day.

It can be a time of love, affection and euphoria — but also can be a painful trigger for those struggling through the turmoil of divorce.

For one Wesley Chapel woman, it’s a time when existing or new clients may feel a particular need to turn to her for support.

Going through a divorce takes an emotional toll and has impacts within the family, on finances and living arrangements, said Hayley Lisa Botha, a divorce coach. (B.C. Manion)

Hayley Lisa Botha, of Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching, helps people take control of their divorce process.

Divorce is more than a legal process, said Botha, who goes by Hayley Lisa to her clients and friends. It’s a transition — affecting relationships within a family, finances and living arrangements — while taking a toll on emotions.

And, that emotional toll can compromise decision-making, Hayley Lisa said.

That’s why she thinks it’s important to enlist the aid of someone who has been trained to help people going through a divorce, to get from where they are to where they want to be.

“A divorce coach can give you unbiased advice,” said Hayley Lisa, who knows the challenges firsthand.

She’s been divorced twice.

She’s familiar with the turmoil it can cause, and the swirl of emotions that can take over.

“You’re going to be a train-wreck,” she said.

When confronted by divorce, many have no idea what to do, or where to turn for help, she said.

“That’s why I love to help people sort through all of the emotions they are feeling, and just gain some clarity, so they can be in a better position,” she said. “I truly believe it (divorce) can be done with integrity and with maturity.”

She sees her role as being a sounding board, and serving as a guide to help clients build a network of professionals to assist them.

When someone approaches her for help, the first thing Hayley Lisa wants to know is where they are in the process: Are they thinking about divorce, or is the marriage really over?

“Make sure the marriage is really over before taking steps to get divorced because once you do that — everything seems to change and sometimes you can’t go back,” she said.

She doesn’t advise people on whether to pursue a divorce, but once that decision has been made, she works with clients to tackle the practical and emotional challenges.

Knowing your financial status is essential, she said.

“Some people think that they’re OK, until they run a credit score and they realize ‘Oh boy, I’m  not even going to be able to get a credit card in my own name,’” she said.

It’s important to choose an attorney, too. She recommends consulting with at least two before selecting one.

“You have to know that attorney is with you and that your values will align. Maybe you want to go through the mediation process. Maybe you want to go collaborative law,” she said. Or, in some cases, litigation is needed.

“If you start this process with an attorney who’s not going to have your best interests at heart, then you’re going to be in a world of trouble,” she said.

Hayley Lisa said she listens to her clients without passing judgment.

“I become their thinking partner in the divorce process. I help them build what’s now going to be their new normal,” she said.

That new normal often involves co-parenting, which can be particularly challenging, she said.

This can be an area where ex-spouses push each other’s buttons, she said. Resist the temptation and take the high road, she advised.

“You’re going to have to sometimes swallow your pride and your ego, and do what’s best for your children,” she said.

She offers clients help with co-parenting issues. “That is such a whole new arena for most people,” she said.

It’s also important to be careful who you listen to, Hayley Lisa said.

While family and friends care about you, they aren’t unbiased, and typically aren’t qualified to give expert advice, she said.

She offers a free consultation to potential clients, and in addition to offering her services on a sliding scale, she also runs a free divorce support group. There are three upcoming support group sessions planned at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library on Collier Parkway.

“It’s just a safe environment where people can share with others, who might be further along in the process, or just beginning,” she said, describing the support group.

“When you are going through a divorce, there’s so much shame that people feel. They feel stigmatized. In the support group, there’s no judgment. We’ve all been there.”

Want to know more?

Call Hayley Lisa Botha at (561) 339-3711; check the website at EmergeStrongDivorceCoaching.com; or, email her at .

Hayley’s 10 commandments
No. 1: Make sure the marriage is really over.
No. 2: Get a divorce coach or therapist.
No. 3: Become informed and take control of your divorce process. If you aren’t already aware of your financial state, find out. Gather financial statements, run a credit check.
No. 4: Put your kids first. Do what’s best for the kids, even if it hurts you.
No. 5: Get good legal advice and build a team of professionals.
No. 6: Do not speak negatively about your soon-to-be ex-spouse.
No. 7: Be careful who you listen to. Your family and your friends love you, but they’re not unbiased and they’re not divorce experts, either.
No. 8: Don’t use your lawyer as your divorce coach or therapist. Lawyers are trained in law, not emotions.
No. 9: Be kind to yourself. Divorce is tough enough, don’t make it worse by letting go of your health.
No. 10: Don’t fight it out at all costs. Don’t insist on getting every last penny you feel you are due, do what you can to settle your case amicably. Your children will thank you.

Source: Hayley Lisa Botha, Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching Services

Free divorce support groups
Emerge Strong Divorce Coaching offers free divorce support groups for men and women who would like some support and guidance, while going through this difficult and often overwhelming time. Sessions will be at the Land O’Lakes Branch Library meeting room, 2818 Collier Parkway.

The February schedule is as follows:

  • Feb. 15: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 18: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • Feb. 29: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

For more information on the support groups, call (561) 339-3711, or visit Facebook.com/EmergeStrongDivorceCoaching.

Published February 05, 2020