The Laker/Lutz News

Sanders Memorial Elementary School

Pasco County Schools preparing for two new STEAM schools

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The Pasco County school district plans to close Centennial Elementary School in Dade City and Marlowe Elementary School in New Port Richey, and reopen them as STEAM magnet schools.

The acronym STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

The conversion of the schools will begin at the conclusion of the 2020-2021 school year, based on an action approved by the Pasco School Board on April 6.

The staff allocations at both schools will be updated for the 2021-2022 school year to reflect these conversions and the newly approved STEAM teacher job description will be used at both schools, as well as at Sanders Memorial Elementary School.

Identified instructional staff members will begin professional development this summer and that will continue into the 2021-2022 school year, with implementation of STEAM curriculum and specialized instructional strategies occurring throughout the 2021-2022 school year.

The student populations and boundaries for both schools will remain status quo for the 2021-2022 school year, with proposed boundary changes to remove the school boundaries for both schools planned for the school board’s consideration and approval this fall.

The boundaries for Centennial and Marlowe will be absorbed into other nearby schools.

Beginning with the 2022-2023 school year, the student populations at Centennial and Marlowe  will be determined through the district’s Pasco Pathways process — with priority preference for attendance given to existing students at both schools.

The district is converting the schools to provide more choices to parents, Superintendent Kurt Browning said, during a previous discussion of the issue.

Board member Colleen Beaudoin said parents have been seeking the additional option.

Published April 14, 2021

Signs of our time

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Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has affected every aspect of life.

Most of the time, when kids aren’t in school, they can just go to the park to play. But, during this time of COVID-19, that is not an option. (B.C. Manion)

The global pandemic has caused thousands of deaths and has rocked the economy — with no clear end in sight.

The unemployment rate has soared; millions are out of work.

School campuses are closed and parents, teachers and students are adapting to distance teaching and learning.

Businesses have suffered huge losses. Some have shuttered temporarily. Some don’t expect to be back. Others are trying to hold on by changing the way they do business.

Roller-skating at Eddie’s Roller Rink, on State Road 52 in San Antonio, will have to wait — until the pandemic passes. (Christine Holtzman)

Grocery stores have signs on shelves, limiting the number of items patrons can purchase, such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer, eggs, canned fruits, bread and others.

More customers are ordering groceries online and having them delivered.

The threat posed by the deadly virus has halted social gatherings, shut down parks, and closed gyms and libraries. It has forced movie theaters to go dark.

Churches, synagogues and other religious centers have had to find new ways to share their faith.

Sanders Memorial Elementary School offers an upbeat message on its school marquee, encouraging everyone to be strong and stay healthy. (B.C. Manion)

Efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19 have resulted in nursing homes closing their doors to visitors. Hospitals have imposed strict visitor policies. Large gatherings for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays and even funerals are being postponed, or skipped entirely.

People in some states, including Florida, are being ordered to stay home when possible, and to wear masks in public places.

In the midst of the upheaval, there are those who offer hope, humor, optimism and help.

And, there are some offering encouragement, too, such as Sanders Memorial Elementary School in Land O’ Lakes.

Its sign reads:  “Stay safe and healthy.”

Published April 15, 2020

Hungry Harry’s, a mainstay in Land O’ Lakes, is still serving to-go orders pit-side. Call ahead for faster service. (Christine Holtzman)
The school community of Countryside Montessori wants its Cougars to know that they’re missed. (B.C. Manion)
This signs informs patrons that the CrossFit facility in Lutz is closed due to the governor’s mandate, relating to COVID-19. (B.C. Manion)

‘Traditions’ goes on, despite rain

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Traditions on the Green didn’t let the forecast of a rainy day wash out the Dec. 1 event. Instead, it shifted from its planned location at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park to  Sanders Memorial Elementary School, at 5126 School Road in Land O’ Lakes.

Diana Journy, left, and her daughter, Elizabeth Richardson, browse the dozens of raffle prizes up for grabs during the ‘Traditions on the Green’ program. The Land O’ Lakes residents were at the concert to watch a performance by Elizabeth’s daughter, Journy — whose name honors the family’s name. She is a cheerleader at Pineview Middle School. (Christine Holtzman)

The Rotary Club of Land O’ Lakes, which hosts the free holiday event, made the call to bring the concert indoors — instead of cancelling it.

Sandy Graves, who has been involved with the event for its 11-year history, said this was the first time it has been held at a different venue.

“The school district worked well with us to make sure that we had a place to hold this event,” Graves.

And, she told the audience that it would still be OK to call the event ‘Traditions on the Green,’ because the benches in the auditorium were green.

The change in location didn’t deter the crowd or its enthusiasm.

Hundreds of people were there to enjoy performances from Denham Oaks, Sanders Memorial Elementary and Lake Myrtle Elementary schools, Pine View Middle School and the Land O’ Lakes High School. Santa Claus dropped by, too.

Those attending could buy chances on raffle prizes, such as gift cards and gift baskets. Among the items up for grabs were two cookbooks donated by Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano and an official flag that once flew over the U.S. Capitol, which was donated by U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis.

Proceeds from the chance drawings benefit schools taking part in the event.

By Christine Holtzman

Published December 12, 2018

The Land O’ Lakes High School Jazz Band, under the direction of Jonathan Mulder, performs ‘Deck the Halls’ during the Traditions on the Green concert on Dec. 1.
While her father, Darnell, records the Pine View Middle School dance club performance with his cellphone, 10-month-old Aubrey Meadows, of Land O’ Lakes, explores the crowd from over her dad’s shoulder. The family, including mom Jennifer were in attendance to see Aubrey’s older sister, Danaye, perform with Pine View Middle’s dance club.
The Pine View Middle School afterschool dance club, directed by instructor Nicole James, delighted the audience with several high-energy performances during the evening, including a dynamic routine set to Earth, Wind, & Fire’s hit song, ‘September.’
Ten-year-old Nicholas Hunter of Land O’ Lakes, center left, and his 8-year-old cousin, Keegan Price, right, are focused on the stage as they watch Keegan’s sister, Savannah, perform with the Pine View’s afterschool dance club.

 

Dr. Susan A. MacManus retires from USF

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When Dr. Susan A. MacManus recently headed to the front of Room 128, in the Social Science Building on the University of South Florida campus — it was to deliver the final lecture of her 47-year teaching career.

Her regular students were there, but there were visitors, too — former students who wanted to be there to share the moment.

MacManus offered her thoughts about the coming Mid-Terms, and when she concluded, she announced: “That, my friends, is my last lecture ever,” with her voice cracking a bit.

One student immediately rushed forward to give MacManus a hug.

Dr. Susan A. MacManus, known nationally for her knowledge of Florida and national politics, stands near her home in Land O’ Lakes. (B.C.Manion)

Another declared: “You’re going to make me cry.”

Those gathered finished out the period eating pizza and cake, and picking up political buttons, reporters’ notebooks and additional trinkets MacManus had collected along the political trail.

Being a teacher was always part of the plan, said MacManus, who grew up in Land O’ Lakes.

“I knew very, very early that I was going to be a teacher. I loved school. I really enjoyed my teachers.

“Sanders (Memorial Elementary) had a lot of really good teachers,” MacManus said.

She graduated at 16 from Pasco High School and initially was a double major, in political science and physical education at Florida State University.

It didn’t take long, though, for MacManus to discover that politics were her true passion.

She graduated from FSU with a bachelor’s degree in political science and went straight to the University of Michigan for a master’s degree. She was attracted to its Survey Research Center, and it was there she developed an interest in polling.

After that, she landed her first job as an instructor at Valencia Community College.

She was 21.

An early interest in government financing
While teaching at Valencia, she took advantage of a program that allowed her to be paid to go

back to school to expand her expertise. She went to FSU where she studied urban planning and political science, under Thomas Dye, who ultimately turned out to be her major professor and mentor.

After returning to Valencia, Dye called her out of the blue and offered her the chance to become his research assistant, allowing her to pursue her doctorate at FSU.

For her dissertation, MacManus examined the revenue patterns of cities and suburbs across the United States. She coded data for multiple decades for 600-plus cities and suburbs across the country.

“From the beginning, understanding the financing of state and local governments has been a terrific asset to me as a political scientist,” she said.

Her first big university job was at the University of Houston, she said. “It just was the right fit for me. The city was exploding.”

Dr. Susan A. MacManus has amassed a large collection of political buttons while covering the campaign trail as a political analyst. Some were on display during her recent retirement reception. (B.C. Manion)

Next, she was recruited by Cleveland State, in Cleveland, Ohio, which also was a good fit professionally and personally.

Her sister, Lou, and her brother, Cameron, were both practicing medicine there and both had young children — allowing MacManus to bond with her nieces and nephews from their infancy.

After four years in Cleveland, she returned to Land O’ Lakes.

“I had left home when I was 16,” she said. “Basically, I hadn’t been able to experience rich time with my parents.”

Coming back to the community where she grew up gave her a chance to work at USF, learn about the family’s citrus business, and to help her mom write two local history books about Lutz and Land O’ Lakes.

“I look back on it, and it all fits together,” she said.

Beyond her influence on students, MacManus also became widely known for her deep knowledge of Florida and national politics.

During the 1990s, she began providing political analysis for News Channel 8.

That started at the encouragement of Bill Ratliff, who had interviewed her for his political show and told her: “You ought to think about doing this. You’re good at it because you can talk to everyday people.”

MacManus replied: “Well, I’m a country girl, you know.”

She agreed to give it a try, if Ratliff would show her the ropes.

She went on to become part of the television station’s coverage team for national political conventions, presidential debates and inaugurations.

And, for decades, she has been a prolific speaker providing her insights to hundreds of civic groups, statewide associations, political and government groups.

Beyond that, she has frequently shared her knowledge in television, radio and newspaper interviews.

She also provided analysis of political conventions during the past two presidential elections, and coverage of the 2016 presidential election for The Laker/Lutz News.

Those experiences of providing political analysis for the media and speaking before myriad groups required her to stay informed, she said.

“It’s absolutely made me keep on top of things. It made me a far, far better teacher,” she said.

The connections she made were invaluable, too.

“I cannot tell you how many internships and jobs that my students have gotten as a consequence of people I have met, on both sides of the political aisle, at major political events,” she said. “You don’t get those kinds of opportunities for students, sitting in your office.”

Hashing out opposing views
MacManus believes her personal background prepared her for her future career.

“I grew up with differences of opinion about politics and lots of family bantering, especially at our large-extended family events.

“But, when it was time to eat and have fun, that was put aside.

Dr. Susan A. MacManus stands in front of a bus parked at the first 2016 presidential debate. The bus is touting CNN’s coverage of the 2016 race for president between Donald J. Trump and Hillary Rodham Clinton. (File)

“That has been one of the greatest gifts I was given — for being an analyst — was growing up in that kind of environment. I don’t get to the point where I can’t talk to somebody because they think differently,” she said.

She praised her last crop of students at USF for being able to hold widely divergent views, while maintaining civility.

It’s an art, she fears, that’s being lost in society today.

Communication has changed, too.

“Candidates and parties, and everyone else, you have to go to multiple platforms,” MacManus said. “You cannot any longer rely upon one source of information.”

As she was winding up her final class, she paused to thank her students.

“I’ve learned far more from you than you’ve learned from me. Your generation is the most interesting one we’ve had, in a very long time,” she said.

“Thank you for being a wonderful, wonderful class,” MacManus said. “I couldn’t ask for a better end to my career than you all. Thank you.”

What people are saying about Dr. Susan A. MacManus
Dr. Judy Genshaft, president of the University of South Florida, and Dr. Liana Fernandez Fox spoke during a retirement reception for Dr. Susan A. MacManus at the University Club of Tampa. During the event, sponsored by USF Women in Leadership & Philanthropy, the women offered these comments — made by others — to honor MacManus:

  • “Besides my parents, no one has had as much impact on me as Dr. MacManus. She is an incredible teacher. She has a story about everything, and is so generously willing and giving of her time and knowledge to students who want to work.” — Anthony Cilluffo, former research assistant for MacManus and current research associate with the Pew Research Center in Washington D.C.
  • “Susan is as much of an institution in Florida politics, as ambitious candidates embarrassing themselves at the Possum Festival, or sipping Cuban coffee in Little Havana. Besides the sheer depth of her knowledge, she happens to be one of the nicest people on the political scene.” — Adam Smith, the Tampa Bay Times political editor
  • “The views of Susan MacManus have always been welcomed, eagerly sought — about both Florida politics and national politics. Susan is a gifted academic, whose work my own team has cited many times. What makes Susan even more special is her remarkable ability to translate her work, as well as her colleagues’ findings, for the benefit of the news media and the general public. A keen observer of the political scene for decades, Susan will, no doubt, be called upon frequently in retirement. We continue to need her voice.” — Dr. Larry Sabato, founder and director of the University of Virginia Center for Politics.

Some 2018 Mid-Term insights
Dr. Susan A. MacManus, distinguished professor of political science, offered these observations during her final lecture at the University of South Florida:

  • Lawyers will be busy.

“This is going to be a very litigious, contentious election. Lawyers are going make a lot of money this election cycle because you’re going to have a lot of voting rights’ issues being litigated.”

  • The ballot will be crowded.

“We’ve got everything under the sun, up for election this time.”

Besides U.S. Senate and Governor, Floridians will be choosing congressional representatives, state lawmakers and local elected officials. There’s 13 proposed constitutional amendments, too.

  • Lots of new faces will be on the political scene.

“We’re already seeing a record number of new people who have never run before filing to run for office in Florida, at every level.”

  • A coming Blue Wave?

“As an analyst, I’m not seeing it yet. It could happen, but it’s not there yet.”

  • Expect a close finish.

“The last four elections, two governors, two presidential — 1 percent margin of victory for the winner. It doesn’t get any better than that.”

Susan’s Four Fs
Dr. Susan A. MacManus never got an F in anything, except for Home Ec, according to her sister, Lou MacManus, who spoke at Susan’s retirement reception at the University Club of Tampa, on the 38th floor of One Tampa City Center.

She said these are the four Fs that have been a constant in Susan’s life: Family, friends, faith and fun.

The reception reflected that. Some former students drove down from Gainesville. Another former student flew in from Washington D.C. Her best friend traveled from Michigan. Her cousins came from Land O’ Lakes. And, scores of others were there, too, to celebrate Susan’s accomplishments.

Lou ribbed her older sister, sharing little-known details about her — including Susan’s fascination for insects when she was young and her runner-up finish a Pasco County beauty pageant. (Actually just in the top 10, Susan says).

University of South Florida President Judy Genshaft praised Susan’s academic contributions.  Genshaft also noted: “I would venture to say that Susan is among the most sought-after political analysts in the country.”

The room was decorated with photographs of Susan pictured with prominent political figures, and all sorts of political buttons on display. There was even a polling booth, from the 2000 presidential election — the year of the infamous “hanging chad.”

Susan’s long-time friend, Dr. Liana Fernandez Fox, said the party was exactly Susan’s kind of celebratory gathering.

“We filled this room with family and friends, good friends — and, with mementoes of Susan’s fabulous and fun career, of educating students, voters and the media,” Fox said.

Published May 9, 2018

Connerton — Much More Than Just A Place To Live

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In the heart of Pasco County in Land O’ Lakes, the community of Connerton continues to grow, as hundreds of new homes are built for people of all ages, fulfilling their dreams to live in a community that offers much more than just a place to live.

Connerton provides more for its residents than other planned communities because it has been designated a “New Town” by the Florida Legislature. Being a New Town means Connerton can create opportunities for a diverse tax base and future job generation, offering residents a community where they can live, work and play!

More Amenities.
Club Connerton serves as the community’s social hub and sports recreation center. Its resort-style pool and its unique giant water bucket is a favorite of Connerton youngsters, who rush to get drenched by the fast-falling water. An outdoor grill and game area were recently added for residents’ enjoyment, and the latest in exercise equipment is found at the Fit and Flourish room. Tennis, pickleball and basketball courts are part of the amenity complex, where residents are always welcome to join in pickup games.

More Family Fun.
A full-time activities director and support staff offer a complete spectrum of activities designed to please the little ones, teenagers and adults. These include yoga, Pilates, girls’ night out, cigar night, dive-in movies, community yard sales, Winter Wonderland and the annual Independence Day Celebration that draws more than 7,000 attendees.

In January, Connerton was the proud recipient of the 2018 Gold Award for Best Lifestyle Program for a Community during the National Association of Home Builders Sales and Marketing Awards gala in Orlando. Entries were submitted from around the nation, and Connerton walked away with the top award, edging out communities from California, Texas and South Florida.

More Nature and Trails.
With Connerton’s appreciation of nature, green space and conservation areas, residents enjoy more than 7 miles of trails and oversized sidewalks to bike, walk or simply enjoy a family stroll. A scenic 2-mile trail winds its way through natural wilderness, lakes and wetlands, and includes elevated boardwalks for bird watching and viewing other Florida wildlife.

Adjacent to Connerton is Conner Preserve — almost 3,000 acres of wildlife habitat donated by Connerton and managed by the Southwest Florida Water Management District.  Biking, camping, hiking, equestrian use and model airplane flying are some of the recreational activities found in the Preserve.

More Quality Schools.
Connerton Elementary is conveniently located within its borders and offers many school-based activities, including band and chorus, a Fall Festival, Science Fair and PTA special events. Residents can also register their children at close-by Sanders Memorial Elementary, a STEAM magnet school specializing in science, technology, engineering, art and math. 

Older students attend Pine View Middle School, which has the distinct honor of being Pasco County’s first International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme Candidate School. Land O’ Lakes High School is located right down the road and is the assigned high school. An A-rated school and designated International Baccalaureate World School, Land O’ Lakes High has been named ‘One of America’s Best Public Schools’ by U.S. News & World Report. Private, charter and parochial schools are also in the area.

More Parks.
Who doesn’t love a park? Residents looking for a place to picnic, or just a quiet place to read, visit one of the many neighborhood parks – Connerton Cove, Garden Party Park, Magnolia Park or Storybrook Park, which is also home to the community dog park.

More for All.
It’s easy to see why Connerton is “The Community of More…” If you’re looking to move, a visit to Connerton is well worth your time to visit. Five quality builders offer many floors plans and homesites. Models by M/I Homes, Lennar, Homes by WestBay and Inland Homes are open seven days a week. Luxury custom homebuilder Arthur Rutenberg Homes has 90-foot homesites available in the gated area of Rose Pointe.

For additional information, call (813) 996-5800, or visit Connerton.com.

Published April 25, 2018

She wants to make sure girls’ voices are heard

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Lindsey Turnbull, a former resident of Land O’ Lakes, has been named one of the University of Central Florida’s 30 Under 30 alumni award winners.

Turnbull was recognized for her work as the founder and CEO of MissHeard Media, a platform that offers teen girls the opportunity to elevate their voices and to create community.

MissHeard Media connects girls across the globe by giving them a place to share their stories and experiences, as well as an opportunity to learn new skills that will help them to chart their own course in life.

Lindsey Turnbull, a former resident of Land O’ Lakes, has been honored for her work to give young girls a chance to express themselves.
(Courtesy of Kathy Cabble)

This year’s class of 30 Under 30 award winners includes marketing and communications professionals, entrepreneurs, engineers, software specialists, attorneys, education leaders, doctors, nurses and a football star. Amber Mariano, who represents District 36 of the Florida House of Representatives, which includes a portion of Pasco County, is also on the list, according to a UCF news release.

Turnbull studied history, anthropology and women’s studies at UCF. She also served as the program coordinator for the Young Women Leaders Program.

MissHeard, with its board of teen girls and youth-related professionals, focuses on girl-centered and girl-created content to foster empowered, girl-positive communities.

MissHeard Media seeks “to create a world where all teen girls feel understood, prepared, confident, and most of all, heard,” according to its website.

Turnbull said her parents moved to Land O’ Lakes when she was 7. She attended Sanders Memorial Elementary School, Pine View Middle School and Land O’ Lakes High School.

She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Central Florida before moving to the Washington D.C. area to pursue a career in history and museum studies.

But, a government sequester, which placed a hard cap on government spending, closed off employment opportunities she had hoped to pursue, so she launched MissHeard Media.

MissHeardMedia is an outgrowth of Turnbull’s experience at the University of Central Florida, where she worked closely with teenage girls.

“What I really discovered was that all of these teen girls were really smart and funny, and had all of these really interesting things to say, but nobody was really asking them what they thought,” Turnbull said.

“I thought to myself: One day, I’m going to do something so everyone will know how awesome teen girls are,” she said.

That day came sooner than she expected.

She created MissHeardMedia.com to give girls a platform for girls to share their stories.

But, she also realized that she missed working directly with girls, so she began offering workshops. She also does speaking engagements.

“Most of what I do is in the D.C. area, right now,” she said.

Soon, she’ll be offering a summer workshop, which will focus on mixing creativity with technology, she said.

“We’re going to do an overview of all kinds of different ways to be creative,” she said.

“We still have the blog, which has stories from girls around the world. We have a teen advisory board, and they submit a lot of the writing,” she said.

Turnbull wants to create the opportunity for girls to be heard — both by their peers, but also by society, in general.

“I think what a lot of people may not realize is that teen girls are very aware of what’s going on in the world, and they want to make a difference and see change. I don’t think a lot of adults realize that.

“I know when the Parkland activists started speaking out after the shooting, all of these adults were like, ‘Teenagers don’t care about this. Why should they have a say? Why should we listen to them?

“And, as someone who has been working with girls for 10 years, I was like, ‘Of course they have things to say. You probably had things to say when you were 16,” Turnbull said.

To find out more about Turnbull’s work, visit MissHeardMedia.com.

If you would like more information about this topic, please contact Turnbull at (727) 491-3922 or email .

Published April 25, 2018

Students have a field day at Sanders

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Sanders Memorial Elementary School started spring break early with a day of fun in the sun.

Presley Knouse, 9, has the school’s initials painted on her cheek by school art teacher, Kellie Silvey, during the Field Day activities at Sanders Memorial Elementary School. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
Presley Knouse, 9, has the school’s initials painted on her cheek by school art teacher, Kellie Silvey, during the Field Day activities at Sanders Memorial Elementary School.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

More than 700 students spent their day at school playing games, dancing, relay racing, getting their faces painted and slurping down snow cones.

The annual Field Day on March 18 was the last school day before the weeklong spring break started for public schools in Pasco County.

Presley Knouse, 9, got her cheek painted with the letters of her school, SMES. Then, she headed off for a round of tinikling, a dance originated in the Philippines.

Classmates tapped and moved two poles in and out, as Knouse stepped over or in between the poles.

On the basketball court, students tested their skills with an outsized jenga game or zoomed handmade paper planes through the air.

A boom box energized dancers with familiar tunes, old and new. From “Hey Macarena” to “Do the Hokey Pokey,” students got into the rhythm.

Chloe Choo, 7, gets the jump on the tinikling event, as she goes airborne above plastic poles moving from side to side.
Chloe Choo, 7, gets the jump on the tinikling event, as she goes airborne above plastic poles moving from side to side.

On the school’s field, students tested their strength and skills at tug o’ war, relay races, soccer kicks, or football and baseball tosses.

About 70 volunteers, and another dozen or so teachers and staff members, participated. Most volunteers were parents, but about eight employees from the Nike store at Tampa Premium Outlets also helped.

Standing in line, students hopped with excitement as they waited a turn at kicking the soccer ball into a net.

Riya Mendenhall, 5, joined in a tug o’ war.

“You lose sometimes. You win sometimes,” she said.

Sanders Memorial Principal Jason Petry joined in the fun, too. He gave some tips on baseball pitching to 5-year-old Patrick Mize, as the youngster got ready for his wind-up.

“It kind of kicks off their spring break,” Petry said. “They’ve worked hard since the beginning of the year. You kind of need a day like this to celebrate.”

Published March 23, 2016

Trevor Lucas, 6, and Jordan Richardson, 5, pour on the steam, as they face off with another kindergarten class during the tug o’ war Field Day event.
Srinav Nekkanti, 8, carries empty water bottles to the recycle bin after teams finished the tug o’ war during Field Day activities. More than 700 students participated.
Srinav Nekkanti, 8, carries empty water bottles to the recycle bin after teams finished the tug o’ war during Field Day activities. More than 700 students participated.
Patrick Mize, 5, works on his pitching form during Field Day activities, with the help of Jason Petry, principal of Sanders Memorial Elementary School.
Patrick Mize, 5, works on his pitching form during Field Day activities, with the help of Jason Petry, principal of Sanders Memorial Elementary School.

 

2015 marked by growth, loss, compassion

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New construction captured many headlines during the year 2015 in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

But, so did traffic issues and changes happening in area schools.

Other news chronicled setbacks and tragic losses. But, there were inspiring stories, too.

Tampa Premium Outlets, a 441,000-square-foot mall with 100-plus designer brand shops, opened in October off State Road 56, near the Interstate 75 interchange.

Saint Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio held a dedication ceremony in February, to celebrate the school’s new brick classroom building. (File Photos)
Saint Anthony Catholic School in San Antonio held a dedication ceremony in February, to celebrate the school’s new brick classroom building.
(File Photos)

Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel embarked upon a $78 million expansion project – 2 ½ years ahead of schedule — to add 112,000 square feet and renovate 11,000.

Florida Hospital Center Ice, a new 150,000-square-foot sports facility, broke ground on Feb. 24. It will have an Olympic-sized hockey rink, four other rinks and the ability to accommodate other sports.

Lutz and Land O’ Lakes also saw their share of growth.

New homes and apartments are popping up along the State Road 54 corridor and along portions of Land O’ Lakes Boulevard.

A Lowe’s home improvement store opened on State Road 54, the Land O’ Lakes Community Park underwent a $2.3 million upgrade, and a new Pasco County Utilities Administration building opened off Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41.

Just outside Dade City, an aerial adventure park, known as Tree Hoppers, began operation, and a number of new businesses have settled into the downtown historic district.

Of course, the new development has added to the area’s traffic jams, which won’t be resolved in the short term.

But, there are efforts being made to address the issue.

The Florida Department of Transportation is exploring solutions to address traffic flow at U.S. 41 and State Road 54. There are efforts to extend State Road 56 between Meadow Pointe and Zephyrhills, and, construction work continues at the I-75 and State Road 52 interchange.

On the education scene, there was a changing of the guard in top leadership at Saint Leo University, just outside Dade City. Dr. Arthur Kirk retired, and Dr. William J. Lennox Jr. assumed the top post.

Pasco-Hernando State College also has a new president, with Dr. Timothy Beard being named to the post after the retirement of Dr. Katherine Johnson.

This photo, taken in the 2014-2015 school year, gives an idea of the crowding that Wiregrass Ranch High was experiencing before it went to a 10-period school day. The school went to a staggered schedule this school year, to reduce the impacts of crowding.
This photo, taken in the 2014-2015 school year, gives an idea of the crowding that Wiregrass Ranch High was experiencing before it went to a 10-period school day. The school went to a staggered schedule this school year, to reduce the impacts of crowding.

The state college’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch also hit a milestone, announcing that it would be surpassing the 3,000-student enrollment mark.

On another front, Sanders Memorial Elementary School reopened in Land O’ Lakes, as Pasco County Schools’ first magnet school. It is a STEAM school, with a curriculum that focuses on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

Pine View Middle School also launched an effort to become the public school district’s first International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme.

And, Wiregrass Ranch High School in Wesley Chapel began operating on a 10-period school day, to reduce the number of students on campus at the same time.

A more permanent solution to Wiregrass Ranch’s overcrowding is expected to occur when the district opens a new school for grades six through 12 that is being constructed on Old Pasco Road.

In another change, the district adopted new boundaries for a new elementary school in Wesley Chapel, off Mansfield Boulevard, which is scheduled to open next fall.

The new school will relieve significant overcrowding at Seven Oaks Elementary. The boundary shifts, which were controversial, will increase enrollment at Denham Oaks Elementary in Lutz.

In other school news, St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz opened the Saint Paul II Youth Center and opened a new elementary school to house Mother Teresa of Calcutta Catholic School.

Saint Anthony Catholic School also marked a milestone — dedicating a new brick classroom building in February.

While much of the news in 2015 was about progress and new beginnings, not all of the news was positive.

For instance, the GFWC Lutz Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club was forced to cancel its 36th annual arts and crafts show, because a sinkhole developed at Lake Park.

Chairman Ted Schrader, holding scissors, slices through the ribbon, as he and other dignitaries celebrated the opening of the Utilities Administration Building.
Chairman Ted Schrader, holding scissors, slices through the ribbon, as he and other dignitaries celebrated the opening of the Utilities Administration Building.

The annual two-day event, which has drawn about 30,000 shoppers a year, was the club’s biggest fundraiser. So, besides disappointing shoppers and about 300 vendors, the cancellation also will reduce the club’s ability to help scores of community organizations and charities.

The year also was marked by the passing of Land O’ Lakes cross country coach Kris Keppel and Laura Hauser, a former non-instructional employee of the year, who worked at Wesley Chapel Elementary before she became too ill to work. Both lost battles with cancer. And, car accidents claimed the lives of Pasco High student Jordan Ivie and Wesley Chapel High.

These deaths inspired demonstrations of respect, generosity, compassion and kindness — to help those grieving their loss.

In another show of support, the community of San Antonio rallied to hold a benefit for Lewis and Diane Riggleman, whose home was destroyed by fire.

Other uplifting moments involved Suellen Smith, the cafeteria manager at Zephyrhills High, who continues her tradition of collecting and giving away dress shirts, dress pants, gowns and dresses to help outfit young men and women for prom, homecoming, weddings and other special occasions.

Another big moment for 2015 involved Leigh Dittman, a Gaither High student from Lutz.

The 15-year-old recently reached a goal she set when she was 7: To raise $1 million for Shriners Hospitals for Children.

The young woman has a disorder known as Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease.

During a recent interview, she said she was motivated to raise the money for Shriners because of how giving it has been to her.

“They are such an amazing group of people, and they’ve given me so much, with my life. It seemed like the right thing to do,” Dittman said.

Published December 30, 2015

Growth spurs school construction

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When Pasco County School Board member Alison Crumbley considers anticipated growth along the State Road 54/56 corridor, she said, she is “taken aback.”

She worries about the school district’s ability to provide schools for all of the students who will be moving into the new communities that are taking shape along that corridor.

Construction continues at Sanders Memorial Elementary School, which is set to focus on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)
Construction continues at Sanders Memorial Elementary School, which is set to focus on science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

Superintendent Kurt Browning shares that sentiment.

“That 54 corridor concerns me greatly,” Browning said, during a recent school board workshop on the district’s construction plans.

“Our need certainly outpaces our resources,” the superintendent said. “When you look at the 54 corridor, from really, Little Road to just beyond Wiregrass, that’s Curley Road — there is so much growth and projected growth.

“Even up on Curley, there’s master-planned communities.

“As superintendent, it concerns me, because I know moms and dads don’t want their kids in crowded classrooms. And I don’t want their kids in crowded classrooms.

“Nor, do I want to build new schools and, the next thing you know, you see portables being pulled up on those school campuses,” Browning said.

The lack of revenue has prompted the school district to launch an impact fee study, which could lead to higher school impact fees paid for new construction of residential properties in Pasco County.

Meanwhile, the district is engaged in numerous construction projects and have others planned in the near future.

Chris Williams, director of planning, outlined those projects during the board’s workshop. He also provided additional details during a separate interview.

Crews at Sanders Memorial Elementary School work to ensure that the county’s first magnet school opens on schedule in August.
Crews at Sanders Memorial Elementary School work to ensure that the county’s first magnet school opens on schedule in August.

Sanders Memorial Elementary School is getting a massive makeover — and the Land O’ Lakes Elementary School is getting more than a brand new look. It is also becoming Pasco County’s first magnet school.

When Sanders opens in the fall, it will offer a curriculum that emphasizes science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics.

Quail Hollow Elementary, set to reopen in August, has a new floor plan that established individual classrooms in the formerly “open” school. The school also will have updated building systems, technology on par with any new elementary school in the district and a new cafeteria with a stage.

The school district also is in the process of designing three new schools, Elementary W in Wiregrass Ranch, Elementary B in Bexley Ranch, and High School GGG on Old Pasco Road, which will open as a school for sixth grade through 12th grade.

The district also is planning additional schools in the Wesley Chapel area.

“Elementary W is the first of potentially three or four in Wiregrass,” Williams said during the board workshop.

The district is working on a new design for Elementary B in Bexley Ranch, because it wants the school to accommodate more students than a typical district elementary school, Williams said.

Bexley Ranch will provide substantial relief for Oakstead and Odessa elementary schools, Williams said.

Other future schools are proposed for the Bexley Ranch area, and a future elementary school is planned for Starkey Ranch. A future middle school is also proposed for Starkey Ranch, Williams said.

The district also already has purchased land for a future school on the south side of State Road 54.

The biggest concern about middle school capacity is in the Wesley Chapel area, Williams said.

High School GGG, which will serve grades six through 12, will provide significant relief to Wesley Chapel area middle schools and high schools.

Wiregrass Ranch High has so many students, it is going to a 10-period day for the next two years to manage the number of students on campus at one time.

High School GGG will have a capacity of 1,900 students. It is expected to draw students from areas now assigned to Wiregrass Ranch and Wesley Chapel high schools, and Weightman and Long middle schools.

The district is using this approach because it can’t afford to build both a high school and a middle school. As population grows and demand increases, the district plans to build Middle School HH at the same location.

The boundary process for High School GGG and Elementary School B is expected to begin in about 18 months, the planning director said.

Williams said he is concerned about the ability of Mitchell, Sunlake and Land O’ Lakes high schools to absorb anticipated future enrollment.

“Land O’ Lakes (High), hopefully, when we remodel that school, we can add some capacity. It’s not going to be enough for long-term,” Williams said.

“We do have a high school site promised to us in Bexley Ranch. That potentially is going to have a big impact, especially on Sunlake.

“I continue to look for two additional high school sites, one in the Land O’ Lakes area and one in the (State Road) 54/Suncoast Parkway area,” Williams said.

But he added: “Those are hard to come by.”

“There is a high school site promised in the River Landing area, that could potentially impact Wesley Chapel, Wiregrass and Zephyrhills,” Williams said.

“It would be along the extension of State Road 56. It would be east of Mansfield, but on the west side of Morris Bridge Road. Zephyr Egg Property, if you’d ever heard of that,” he said.

School Board member Allen Altman said he’s worried that the increasing need to spend money on new construction will make it that much harder for the district to maintain the buildings it has.

It’s a known fact that proper maintenance saves taxpayers money in the long term, but the district doesn’t have a choice. It must spend money to provide school capacity, he said.

While the district considers its long-range plans and short-term needs, construction continues.

Elementary W, being built between John Long Middle School and Wiregrass Ranch High, is set to open in 2016.

When it opens, it will be possible for students to attend elementary school through college on the same street, since Pasco-Hernando State College’s Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch is just down the road.

Williams expects the school boundary process for Elementary W to begin in October or November.

That school will help relieve crowding at Seven Oaks and Double Branch elementary schools, but the particulars of how that will be achieved have not been determined yet.

“Seven Oaks really popped this year,” Williams said.

Meanwhile, in East Pasco, the school district will be building a new cafeteria, and doing parking and traffic improvements at Cox Elementary.

Pasco Elementary also is getting some improvements, as plans call for remodeling several buildings, Williams said.

Published July 15, 2015

Renovations wrapping up at Land O’ Lakes Community Park

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The $2.4 million renovation project at Land O’ Lakes Community Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., is just about completed. It features new fields, a playground, a concession stand and restrooms. There’s even a walking trail for walkers and joggers that goes around the park.

But there’s another improvement that gets Mike Walcott, a recreation supervisor for Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources, really excited.

The parking.

A proposed stage where special events can be held would cost $150,000 or more, but would create a permanent platform for community productions and performances. (Image courtesy of Heritage Park Foundation)
A proposed stage where special events can be held would cost $150,000 or more, but would create a permanent platform for community productions and performances.
(Image courtesy of Heritage Park Foundation)

“I think the thing a lot of people are going to like is the paved parking,” Walcott said. “Because when you park in a dirt lot in the middle of July and you have those storms come rolling though, it creates a mess.”

Walcott has endured the mess associated with dirt lots long enough to know how bad it can be. He’s been with the county parks department for 15 years, with about eight of them at Land O’ Lakes Community Park.

Small improvements can make a big difference, and they can enhance the experience of visiting the park.

And, with all the bigger improvements ready to be unveiled to the public, he expects a lot more visitors in the future.

The improved fields are good for the park’s existing users like their adult softball league and Police Athletic League youth football. The latter will now have their home games at the park, instead of just using it as a practice facility.

In addition, the park now has a special event area that will be a gathering place for a variety of community events. Walcott sees movies in the park, a farmer’s market and company picnics as just some of the possible uses.

The annual Swampfest event, which was canceled last year due to a conflict with the park’s renovation schedule, is also back on for this November.

And with a potential addition in the future, the possibilities are even greater.

“We’re looking forward to possibly a stage being put out into the park, so we’ll be able to do concerts,” Walcott said.

That project is being spearheaded by the Heritage Park Foundation. And the group’s president, Sandy Graves, believes it would be an artistic feather in the park’s cap.

“I think it will complete that park,” Graves said.

The plan includes a structure that takes up around 2,000 square feet with a back room, electrical hookup and wide steps for people to bring up instruments or other bulky equipment.

The foundation would like to collaborate with local government to help raise funds for the project, which could exceed $150,000. For now, foundation members are raising money on their own, as they try to find a government partnership that works for everybody.

While the park will continue to thrive as a destination for local teams, Graves sees more opportunities for the park as a local hub of community activity.

“Sports is just one facet,” she said. “I think it’s good for the community to have a central gathering space where it can have the festivals that bring a community together.”

Meanwhile, the Land O’ Lakes Community Park is taking advantage of another construction project to enhance users’ experience. When Sanders Memorial Elementary School reopens later this year as the county’s first STEAM magnet school, its proximity to the park invites a natural sharing of facilities. STEAM stands for science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

They’ll be able to share event space, parking, basketball courts and other facilities.

That collaboration, as well as the existing renovations and potential future improvements, means the park will continue to maximize its resources. At just 16 acres, it’s not a large park, but the new layout will use the area efficiently.

“I think they came up with a great multi-use community park,” Walcott said. “As far as the size that we have here, I think everyone’s going to get something out of it.”

For now, it seems like everyone wants to hear about its progress. Walcott gets residents coming by every day asking about project updates and wanting to see how things are going. And he’s pleased to report that some facets of the park will be available within the next couple of weeks, and the fields are being prepared for use in the coming months. Soon residents will be able to enjoy the new amenities, like the walking trail, concession stand and event area.

And the parking, of course.

“It sounds ridiculous that I keep going back to the paved parking. But oh my goodness, that was the biggest thing. Just getting stuck in the mud,” Walcott said. “I know when people come out here and get a good look at the place, they’re really going to like it. They’re really going to enjoy being out here.”

Published June 10, 2015