The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Land O' Lakes High School

Two former Land O’ Lakes High School coaches honored

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The District School Board of Pasco County recognized former coaches Allen “Al” Claggett and Rock Ridgeway on April 16 for their accomplishments while serving at Land O’ Lakes High School (LOLHS).

The field house at the school’s stadium was named in Claggett’s honor and the track at the high school was named in Ridgeway’s honor.

Principal Ric Mellin told school board members about both coaches’ accomplishments in letters read at a recent meeting. 

Two coaches at Land O’ Lakes High School were honored by the District School Board of Pasco County on April 16. From left: Superintendent Kurt Browning, Allen ‘Al’ Claggett, Rock Ridgeway and District 5 school board member Megan Harding. (Courtesy of Pasco County Schools)

Claggett was a 38-year employee of the Pasco County School District. His career began in 1971 at Sanders Elementary School where he served as a language arts teacher and coached football for grades five to eight. He transferred to LOLHS after it opened in 1975, which at that time, was the fifth high school in Pasco County. Claggett retired in 2009.

“During his tenure as the defensive coordinator for the Gators’ football program, Land O’ Lakes achieved remarkable success, winning 14 district titles, six conference titles and two county championships,” Mellin wrote, in asking that the stadium’s field house be named in Claggett’s honor.

“Not only did Mr. Claggett excel in the realm of athletics, but he also made significant contributions to academics. As a language arts teacher, he played a pivotal role in developing the school’s Writing Program and actively participated in local and state curriculum committees. His dedication was recognized when he was selected by his peers as Teacher of the Year.

“Given Allen Claggett’s enduring legacy and profound impact on Land O’ Lakes High School, I feel we should recognize his contributions by naming the stadium field house in his honor. I am confident that it is a fitting tribute to a truly exceptional individual whose legacy will continue to encourage students and athletes to reach their full potential,” Mellin wrote.

Ridgeway’s entire 26-year career was spent at LOLHS. He started there in 1992 and retired in 2018.

He was recognized for what he had achieved while coaching four different sports at the high school. 

“Coach Ridgeway’s years of service at LOLHS speaks volumes about his commitment to athletic excellence and the positive impact he had on countless students’ lives. Over the course of his coaching career, Rock has demonstrated unwavering dedication and leadership in various sports programs, including basketball, football, track and golf.

“As a dedicated coach and educator, Rock Ridgeway has left a lasting mark on the LOLHS community through his tireless dedication to the athletic department, being a great role model for students, and his significant contributions to team achievements,” Mellin wrote.

Ridgeway reportedly served as freshman junior varsity and varsity basketball coach from 1992 to 1996, and as varsity football coach from 1993 to 2013.

”His contributions to the football program, including coaching two undefeated teams and leading them to two regional playoff games, highlight his exceptional coaching skills and ability to inspire his players to strive for greatness.

“Furthermore, Coach Ridgeway’s impact extends beyond the football field, as evidenced by his remarkable achievements as the girls’ track coach for 23 years. “Under his guidance, the girls’ track team achieved remarkable success, winning District Championships in 2014, 2015 and 2016. Moreover, Rock’s dedication to excellence was recognized through his six Coach of the Year awards.

“In addition to his coaching accolades, Rock’s contributions to LOLHS extend to the classroom, where he was honored as Teacher of the Year for the 1996-97 academic year. His passion for education and his dedication to his students’ success exemplify the qualities of an outstanding educator and mentor,” Mellin wrote. 

The honors were bestowed on both coaches as part of the consent agenda of the school board’s April 16 meeting.

Published May 05, 2024

Chalk Talk 02/07/2024

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(Courtesy of Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce)

January Student Citizens of the Month
The East Pasco Chamber Foundation in partnership with The Greater Zephyrhills Chamber of Commerce recognized 10 students from local schools as Greater Zephyrhills Student Citizens of the Month. Students are chosen by the teachers and administration of their individual schools for exemplary effort, achievement and contribution to their school, family and community. Those honored were: Michael Barnes, Academy of Spectrum Diversity; Chase Sheffler, Children’s Educational Services Elementary Campus; Kayleigh Skinner, Children’s Educational Services Secondary Campus; Rosalinda Sosa, Chester Taylor Elementary School; London du Mont, Heritage Academy; Cheyanna Warren, Raymond Stewart Middle; Gabriel Rivera, West Zephyrhills Elementary; Ava Robinson, Woodland Elementary; Michael Smith, Zephyrhills Christian Academy; and Joseph Stosh, Zephyrhills High.

Dollar Book Fundraiser
The Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa, will host a Dollar Book Sale Fundraiser through Feb. 14. All donations will benefit the Tom Jones Tuition Assistance Fund, which helps families send their kid(s) to camp. For information, call 813-922-8167.

Turnaround Event
Pasco County Schools will host a Turnaround event on Feb. 8 at 9 a.m., at the PHSC Instructional Performing Arts Center, 8657 Old Pasco Road in Wesley Chapel.

Each year, the school district celebrates students who have overcome obstacles to discover success in education and life. The event will recognize one student from each middle school and each high school.

Also, PHSC (Pasco-Hernando State College) recruiters will be on site waiving application fees for the day.

For information, contact Ramon Suarez, supervisor of the Graduation Enhancement Program, at or 813-794-2709.

Homeschool Pottery
The Starkey Ranch Theatre Library Cultural Center, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive in Odessa, will host “Homeschool Pottery for Beginners” on Feb. 9 from 10 a.m. to noon, for homeschool students ages 9 to 15.

Participants can learn the basics of throwing on the wheel. No experience necessary. All supplies will be provided. A signed safety waiver and closed-toe shoes are required. Waivers will be available to fill out before class begins. Part 2 of the class is on Feb. 23 at 10 a.m., to glaze the pieces.

Registration is required. Call 727-815-7126.

The importance of reading habits
In recognition of the Florida Department of Education’s Literacy Week, Jan. 22 to Jan. 26, Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative took a look at 2023 reading habits to help raise awareness about the importance of daily reading.

Library customers borrowed a record 8.5 million library materials last year, according to a news release. That amount of books, when placed end to end, could reach from Tampa to Boston, Massachusetts. Customers checked out more than 3.6 million books, movies and audiobooks from library branches and borrowed more than 4.9 million digital items like e-books and e-magazines.

The Jimmie B. Keel Public Library branch had the highest circulation last year with a total of 412,604, the release said. 

Library customers also attended more than 7,500 events at library branches in 2023 and more than 48,000 new customers signed up for library cards.

These are the top books checked out in 2023 in the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library branches and online:

Top Five Adult Fiction: “Desert Star” by Michael Connelly; “The Boys from Biloxi” by John Grisham; “Long Shadows” by David Baldacci; “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus; and “No Plan B: A Jack Reacher Novel” by Lee Child.

Top Young Adult Fiction: “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson; “The Summer I Turned Pretty” by Jenny Han; “The Inheritance Games” by Jennifer Barnes; “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo; and “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes” by Suzanne Collins.

To apply for a library card, visit HCPLC.org/account/get-a-card.

Love Symposium
Pasco-Hernando State College East Campus will present its annual Love Symposium on Feb. 12 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at 36727 Blanton Road, Building A, Room 240, in Dade City.

The theme will be “Love Over Time” and will feature presentations by faculty and staff exploring “Love in the Age of Social Media,” “Love in the 80s,” “Love Yourself!” and others. There also will be light refreshments, a dedicated art show and raffle prizes.

For information, contact Danielle Knight at 352-518-1206 or .

Chinese artist exhibit
Pasco-Hernando State College will exhibit the artistic talents of Nan Liu through March 1, at the West Campus, Rao Musunuru M.D. Art Gallery, 10230 Ridge Road in New Port Richey.

Liu began to study Chinese brush painting and calligraphy at a young age in Tianjin, China. At 16 years old, he was given the title of “Young Artist of Tianjin” by the Cultural Committee of Tianjin City. The artist brings cross-cultural perspectives on contemporary America through a variety of art forms, such as drawings, watercolors, tempera, ink and oil paintings.

The event is free and open to the public.

Staff Hall of Fame
Land O’ Lakes High School marked a significant moment in its history with the unveiling of the inaugural Staff Hall of Fame, a tribute to the educators and staff members who have played a pivotal role in shaping the institution.

The Hall of Fame features the portraits and accomplishments of 34 staff members. These individuals, selected for their exceptional service and positive influence on generations of students, represent the foundation upon which the school’s legacy is built, according to a news release.

The evening festivities on Jan. 24 included a presentation at halftime of the school’s basketball game, during which time each inductee was honored and introduced to the community.

Land O’ Lakes High School remains committed to celebrating its history and fostering an environment where learning and excellence thrive, the release says.

The individuals recognized to the Staff Hall of Fame are: Diane Baraket, Frederick Beauchamp, Vanie Benedetto, John Benedetto, Nancy Browning, Allen Claggett, Patrick Connolly, Maureen Dieffenwierth, Bill Gebauer, Rebecca Gleaton, Terri Granger, Vicky King, Ingrid Lachotta, Joan Lilly, Cindy Little, Charlie McBride, Caryn McDermott, Douglas O’Brien, Kathy O’Connor, Mark Pearson, Yvonne Perkins, David Puhalski, Romona Quave, Rock Ridgeway, Mark Rulison, Paul Russell, Joan Saperstein, Annemarie Schunemann, Katherine Sims, Amy Smith, Doris Souto, Terry Stanley, Kurt Sturm and Mary Jane Walker.

Sticker design challenge
The Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer is challenging high school students to design a new “I Voted” sticker for Hillsborough County voters. Three finalists will be selected and one will be named the grand prize winner.

The first-place winning design will be reproduced as a 2-inch round sticker and given to voters who vote early or drop off their mail ballot during the two weeks leading up to Election Day for the 2024 Primary and General Elections.

This year’s contest is sponsored by the Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Busch Gardens. All of the finalists will be recognized at a school board meeting and receive prizes from the sponsors. 

Artwork must be two-dimensional, nonpartisan and original. Submission deadline is March 8.

To read more about the rules and submission requirements, students should visit VoteHillsborough.gov/VHContests.

For information on voting and elections in Hillsborough County, call 813-744-5900, visit VoteHillsborough.gov, or follow @HillsboroughSOE on social media.

Victory High enrollment
Victory High School in Pasco County is now enrolling for the 2024-2025 year. The nonprofit, private school is for teens in recovery from substance-use disorders or co-occurring disorders.

Students can earn their diploma away from the pressures and temptations of traditional high school. Academics are delivered in a safe, healing-centered environment, and all staff and volunteers are trained in trauma responsive services and mental health first aid, according to Victory’s website.

Scholarships are accepted at the school. To refer a student, visit www.refertovictory.com.

For information, visit https://www.floridarecoveryschoolsoftampabay.com/schools/,  call 813-444-7766, or email .

Spectrum Scholars applications
Charter Communications Inc., has opened applications for Spectrum Scholars, the company’s annual scholarship program for underrepresented college students with financial need.

Each of the rising college juniors selected for the 2024-2025 program will receive a $20,000 scholarship, a Charter mentor and the opportunity for a paid internship with the company.

In its fourth year, Charter has awarded more than $1 million in scholarships through Spectrum Scholars, but the benefits for students of participating in the program extend far beyond financial assistance.

The selected students for the new class of scholars will have the opportunity to complete the two-year professional development program, designed to introduce them to new career paths and expand their networks, with the potential for full-time employment with Charter post-graduation. Students also get unique access to networking and professional development opportunities including the Scholars Summit, a three-day event hosted at Charter’s corporate headquarters in Stamford. Fifteen students will be selected for the 2024-2025 Spectrum Scholars class.

For more information on how to apply, as well as program eligibility and selection criteria, visit https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/scholarships/SpectrumScholarsApp2024.

The deadline for applications is March 1. Winners will be announced in May and scholarships will be awarded in August.

Scholarship applications
Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian E. Corley is now accepting applications for the Florida Supervisor of Elections (FSE) Scholarship.

The association will award four $1,200 scholarships statewide to a political science, public administration, business administration or journalism/mass communication major and be at least a junior in college. Students must be enrolled or accepted as a full-time student in a senior college or university in Florida and have at least a C average or above for the previous year.

Additional requirements, guidelines and eligibility information can be found at PascoVotes.gov, by selecting the 2024 FSE Scholarship Application under the Noteworthy tab on the homepage. Applicants will be personally interviewed by Corley, who will then select one finalist from Pasco County for consideration.

Applications are due by March 8.

Scholarship opportunity
Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Craig Latimer invites college students to apply for a scholarship provided by the Florida Supervisors of Elections (FSE). The FSE is offering three $1,200 scholarships to eligible Florida residents who are accepted or enrolled as full-time students in a senior college or university in Florida.

Students also must be at least a junior in college, or have enough credits for enrollment as a junior prior to the application date.

Hillsborough County residents must apply through the Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Office. Students who apply must be either a political science, public/business administration, or journalism/mass communications major.

The application deadline is March 8.

To learn about the full list of requirements and how to apply, visit VoteHillsborough.gov/Scholarship, or email .

Scouting for little libraries

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Krishna Chundi is interested in engineering.

The Land O’ Lakes High School senior got a taste of it during the community service project he completed in pursuit of becoming an Eagle Scout.

Krishna Chundi, a senior at Land O’ Lakes High, built four book boxes in about a year and then worked with the Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department to have them installed in parks across the county, including this one installed at the playground at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey. The initiative was his community service project in his quest to become an Eagle Scout. (Mike Camunas)

The 18-year-old, who plans to attend the University of South Florida, spent a year building four book boxes. Then, he coordinated with the Pasco County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department to have them strategically placed in county parks in communities where a high population of children from low-income families could benefit from his project.

The little libraries provide a place where people can borrow and exchange books.

The project cost about $800, which Chundi raised, or which was donated.

“When I was little, I really had a great interest in reading, but luckily I had a library (the Land O’ Lakes Branch) real close to me,” Chundi said. “Not everyone has a library that close. … So these (boxes), they’re in good locations to provide kids, or anyone, with books they can borrow.”

Krishna Chundi was able to stock the book boxes with donated books through a book drive at Land O’ Lakes High.

To build the boxes, Chundi said he consulted one of the best places for do-it-yourself projects, YouTube. But he couldn’t find a video that offered step-by-step instructions, so he turned to his family and scout leaders for their help in figuring out the best way to complete the build.

And he had to make adjustments as the project progressed — just like an engineer would.

“We had to improvise as we went along,” Chundi said. “The box was easy, but working on and installing and problem-solving the door was difficult because we had to make adjustments to make the doors fit better and the right way.”

He also made an ingenious move to keep the elements from damaging the books by installing a magnet latch to keep the door tightly closed.

Throughout the build, Chundi coordinated with the Lowe’s in Lutz, which donated some supplies and gave him a “Scout discount.”

He also worked closely with Pasco’s parks department.

Parks and Recreation Manager Brian Taylor said once Chundi contacted the department, it identified sites that didn’t have book boxes, which are also known as little libraries.

The parks department agreed to paint and install the boxes.

One of the four book boxes built by Land O’ Lakes scout Krishna Chundi, who then worked to have the boxes placed in county parks, such as this one in Starkey Park in New Port Richey.

“He did 99% of the work,” Taylor said. “He’s a really great, upstanding kid, and he did a really great job for just a teenager. I mean, it takes work just to achieve Eagle Scout status, but (a project like this), it promotes all the different things such as education, sharing, reusing, repurposing — and they look nice!

“He did such a great job on something that is very popular no matter where they get placed.”

Chundi’s boxes were installed at Crews Lake Wilderness Park in Spring Hill and Little Lisa Park and W.H. “Jack” Mitchell Park, both in New Port Richey. The fourth box was installed by the playground in Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park, also in New Port Richey. (See accompanying box for addresses)

Also, the box at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park is near the StoryWalk® the Parks Department opened in 2022.

“It’s a perfect spot by StoryWalk,” Taylor said. “We expect kids to take a book after leaving the trail.”

Chundi agreed: “I thought that was a really good place to put that box.”

The county also provided some books, but Chundi provided most of the books that were collected through a book drive at Land O’ Lakes High.

Land O’ Lakes High senior and local Boy Scout Krishna Chundi said it took him about a year to construct four book boxes that were then put into Pasco County parks. (Courtesy of Krishna Chundi)

“When we had the book drive at our school, and they didn’t know what to do with a lot of them, so I said give them to me for the boxes,” Chundi said. “I was able to put in a variety of books, with plenty for kids and young adults, even some cooking books in there, too.”

Chundi wants to get the word out, so people can take advantage of the new little libraries.

“Advertising these book boxes is crucial,” he added, “so I’m glad to get the word out, that way (everyone) gets the most use out of the boxes and (they) make a greater impact on the community.”

Book Boxes Built by Krishna Chundi
Details: Land O’ Lakes High senior and soon-to-be Eagle Scout Krishna Chundi built four book boxes to be installed in Pasco County parks.
Locations:

  • Starkey Wilderness Park, 1115 Wilderness Park Road, in New Port Richey
  • Crews Lake Park, 16739 Crews Lake Drive, in Spring Hill
  • Lake Lisa Park, 7021 Maplehurst Drive, in New Port Richey
  • W.H. “Jack” Mitchell Park, 4025 Little Road, in New Port Richey

Published April 19, 2023

Hale Road rezoning is rejected

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Opponents to a proposed rezoning on Hale Road erupted in cheers and applause, when the Pasco County Commission voted 5-0 against the request.

KB Home had sought to put a total of up to 107 homes on two parcels on the north side of Hale Road and another parcel on the south side of Hale Road. Both properties are near Collier Parkway, in Land O’ Lakes.

Opponents turned out in force to protest a request that would allow 107 homes on two parcels flanking Hale Road. The Pasco County Commission rejected the proposed rezoning on a 5-0 vote. (Mike Camunas)

Opponents came ready to do battle.

They made it easy to identify their opposition, by wearing fluorescent lime-green T-shirts.

They filled seats throughout the county board’s chamber. Some carried protest signs.

Maryann Bishop, who owns a 19-acre property next door to the proposed rezoning, on the north side of Hale Road, hired an attorney and a traffic engineer to fight the request.

Besides the family home, the property also is occupied by the Rosebud Continuum Ecological and Science Education Center. It also has a nature trail, a lake, bat houses, bee hives and farm animals.

Bishop and her attorney, Jane Graham, spelled out a multitude of reasons to deny the request.

They cited a recommendation for denial from the Pasco County Planning Commission, which listed 13 reasons for rejecting the rezoning.

Before showing up to the county board’s meeting, opponents voiced their objections to the Pasco County Planning Commission.

They also reached out to members of the county board, and they bombarded them with emails.

It didn’t take long to find out which team the people wearing lime green T-shirts were on, during a Nov. 15 public hearing before the Pasco County Commission. They came ready to make a case against a rezoning proposed on Hale Road, and, in the end, they won.

For their part, the applicant’s team noted that KB Home was proposing 2.4 houses per acre, far fewer than the six houses per acre contemplated in the county’s long-range plan.

They also noted changes made in the plan, after the planning board’s denial, intended to address safety concerns.

For instance, Cyndi Tarapani, a professional planner, told the county board: The project previously proposed two driveways to access the proposed development on the north side of Hale Road and one driveway to access the homes planned on the south side of the road.

After the planning board meeting, the applicant revised its plan to show access to Collier Parkway from the southern parcel, where all but 22 homes are planned.

The applicant also agreed to add turning lanes and sidewalks, to address traffic concerns, she said.

But those concessions failed to sway opponents.

Maryann Bishop, who owns property next to a proposed rezoning on Hale Road, offers a multitude of reasons for why the request should be denied. She was addressing the Pasco County Commission during a public hearing on Nov. 15 at the Historic Pasco County Courthouse. Her attorney, Jane Graham, is seen in the background.

They said Hale Road is a substandard road and objected to adding any new development beyond what’s already zoned.

To bolster their case, they showed photographs of a garbage truck getting stuck, after failing to negotiate a sharp turn. A school bus that tried to get around it got stuck, as well as another vehicle, according to an area resident, who testified at the public hearing.

Several speakers said it’s not uncommon for accidents to occur, people to crash into fences and people to run off the road into ditches.

Those ditches often fill with water and are choked with weeds, speakers added.

Students in grades six through 12 who live within 2 miles of school no longer receive “courtesy” rides from Pasco County Schools, because of a shortage of bus drivers and money.

Area resident Debra Martinez told the county board: “These kids scare me to death in the morning. They’re walking in the road because they can’t walk in the ditch … It’s not a good situation on Hale Road.”

Opponents also testified about kids being at risk, as they ride their bikes, while carrying backpacks, on a substandard road that carries considerable traffic.

As a case in point, they showed a photo of a student walking on the edge of the road, with little room to spare for passing motorists.

Russell Watrous, one of the opponents, told commissioners: “Hale (Road) is not safe. I’ve driven Hale Road now for 28 years, back and forth to work. I’ve seen it change from a peaceful country road to something that’s really unsafe.”

He also raised questions about compatibility, noting the proposed lots with 40- and 50-foot frontage are far smaller than nearby lots and developments.

Watrous said he’s worried that approval of this request would trigger requests from similar properties and would set a dangerous precedent for the area.

Tarapani noted the applicant had placed its 50-foot lots in areas next to larger lots and had committed to providing buffering.

Land O’ Lakes High student Lilly Xu, speaking on behalf of the school’s Scientific Journal Club, is sworn in during the public hearing. She submitted, via an email to Commissioner Ron Oakley, a packet of 200 emails from Land O’ Lakes High students, expressing their views on the proposed rezoning.

Several speakers, including Lilly Xi, president of the Scientific Journal Club at Land O’ Lakes High School, urged the county board to consider the area’s sustainability.

Prior to the meeting, Xi had submitted a packet of 200 emails or notes from Land O’ Lakes High students, expressing their thoughts on the issue.

Many students raised concerns about the need to protect the environment, to respect the ecosystem and to keep wildlife out of harm’s way.

One student told commissioners that “rapid-fire growth” isn’t in the interest of the people.

Area residents emailed commissioners, too.

Emily Keen reached out to Commissioner Mike Moore.

In part, she said: “I desire an end to developers coming into our neighborhoods to profit and then taking their money and running after they have put a strain on the environment, wildlife, our local community, roadways, water supply, water quality, and even understaffed/underfunded schools that don’t have room for more students.”

Keen also shared photos of white-tailed deer, sandhill cranes, a swallow-tailed kite, wood stork, spicebush swallowtail butterfly and Sherman’s fox squirrel. She said the photos were taken on her property, about a half-mile away from the proposed rezoning.

The public hearing lasted more than three hours, ending ultimately with a recommendation for denial by Commissioner Jack Mariano.

“I’ve never seen as much fact-based evidence in a hearing that we saw today. I’ve never see a planning commission go through and list 13 reasons to why a project shouldn’t go forward,” he said.

Like the opponents, Mariano cited concerns about safety, compatibility, stormwater runoff, a lack of streetlights and a substandard road without sidewalks.

“This just doesn’t fit,” Mariano said.

Here’s a new way to (re)cycle

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Ananth Kutuva is a tinkerer.

He also is a collector.

But the 16-year-old student in the International Baccalaureate program at Land O’ Lakes High School never thought he’d collect so many bikes, so fast.

“I just wanted to get 100 (donated) bikes,” Kutuva said. “All I did was post it on Facebook and NextDoor, and a lot of people contacted us with bikes. So, yeah, it was just crazy how many were ready to donate their bikes.

“Like I said, I just wanted to get to 100 (bikes), but now, I think maybe 250 because at the pace we’re going, I think that’s easily reachable (laughs).”

Teenager Ananth Kutuva works on a bike at WellBuilt Bikes in Tampa, volunteering his time because he genuinely just likes tinkering with bikes. Not only has he helped rebuild bikes, but Kutuva has reached out to the local communities to collect used and unwanted bikes to donate for refurbishment and parts. (Mike Camunas)

Kutuva began collecting used and unwanted bikes from neighbors and others in his surrounding communities, starting in his neighborhood, Seven Oaks in Wesley Chapel.

But then, people from near and far got in touch with him.

Soon, the lanai patio at his house was full of bikes — 60 to be exact on Aug. 20, not even a full month into his bike drive.

As Kutuva collects bikes — he is approaching 100 — he gives them to WellBuilt Bikes, a Tampa nonprofit bike shop that sells refurbished bikes at affordable prices and invests the sales revenue into its Earn-A-Bike program, which allows people with little to no money to access or own a bike.

The program works like this: Put in the volunteer hours at the shop, either helping out or fixing up bikes, and it goes to getting a fully refurbished bike.

This is how Kutuva became familiar with the shop and its program — he wanted a place to work on bikes. He has been volunteering at WellBuilt since he was a freshman, but has never taken a bike.

He just wanted to fix them up.

His interest in bicycles dates back to seventh grade.

“I got him a mountain bike,” his father, Ramesh Vasudevan, said. “He assembled it himself.

“But he said he needed to do more than just biking,” the boy’s father said. “He wanted to take it to the next level and thought how could he use his bike repair skills.”

His dad explains that when Kutuva made repairs at WellBuilt, he noticed how happy the people were who were getting bikes.

“He was just like, ‘Wow, there are so many bikes around us and in the area. Why can’t I get those for other people? How do I get those to (WellBuilt) so people who want, or need, can have them?’” his dad added.

“That kind of ambition, I encouraged it immediately.”

Through volunteering at WellBuilt, Kutuva wanted to learn more about bikes in general. Everything else he had already learned came from YouTube videos, and trial and error.

Ananth Kutuva is a 16-year-old student in the International Baccalaureate Program at Land O’ Lakes High. He has volunteered his time and efforts to collect used and unwanted bikes to donate to WellBuilt Bikes. He then repairs them so they can be purchased or earned at the nonprofit bike shop in Tampa.

Now, Kutuva has restored and fixed up about 10 bikes, which have been sold or earned at WellBuilt, and the whole process takes a few visits to finish.

“The hardest part is just getting the tools because it can take a lot of specialized tools made specially for that bike,” Kutuva said. “I am logging volunteer hours, but I really just wanted to learn more about bikes when I first came to WellBuilt.”

Once the bikes were stockpiled on the lanai, WellBuilt Bikes CEO Jon Dengler would bring over a trailer to load them up and then take them to storage. The initial collection of 60 took two trips for Dengler.

He was blown away by the teenager’s efforts.

“If someone takes the time and initiative to look, especially in the suburbs, there are probably two bikes laying around that just need a little work or are perfect for donating,” Dengler said. “Ananth just put in the work and went out and gathered them by tapping these different networks.

“No matter what, when someone puts that many bikes together, we’re on our way, but when it’s just a teenager in high school, that’s amazing.”

For now, Kutuva will continue his bike drive.

There’s also the matter of getting to WellBuilt to tinker around.

“Well,” the teenager said with a smile, “I’m pretty busy at school, so I’m always looking to find time.

“But I will try hard to find the time. Because I really want to fix up more bikes,” he said.

Bicycle Drive
Ananth Kutuva collects bikes in any condition and then donates them to Wellbuilt Bikes, a nonprofit bike shop that sells refurbished bikes at affordable prices. Wellbuilt is in the University Mall, 12256 University Mall Court, in Tampa. If you would like to donate a bike, but are unable to transport it to the shop directly or need more information about the drive, contact Ananth Kutuva at or 813-701-7870.

For information or to volunteer at WellBuilt Bikes, visit BikeShopTampa.com.

Published October 05, 2022

Hale Road rezoning gets ‘no’ vote from divided planning board

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In the end, a majority of the Pasco County Planning Commission voted to recommend denial of  a rezoning requested for a 109-home subdivision in Land O’ Lakes.

The proposed site for the development is on the southwest and northwest corner of the Hale Road and Collier Parkway intersection, straddling Hale Road. It is approximately 5,700 feet east of U.S. 41, according to documents contained in the planning board’s Sept. 22 agenda packet.

The planning board voted 3-2 to recommend denial.

Opponents to a proposed rezoning on Hale Road want the request to be rejected. The sign also indicates a backlash against elected leaders, springing from dissatisfaction regarding Pasco County’s continued growth. (Mike Camunas)

That vote followed about four hours of testimony, with representatives for the applicant claiming the proposed single-family development is compatible with the sea of single-family developments surrounding it.

Opponents questioned the claim of compatibility, raised issues about Hale Road’s ability to handle the additional traffic, voiced concerns about potential environmental damage that could arise and cautioned against setting a precedent for increased development on similar properties on Hale Road.

In calling for denial, the planning board cited Hale Road’s substandard road conditions, incompatibility with surrounding development, and other issues.

County planners, however, had recommended approval of the request.

Next, the Pasco County Commission will consider the request. It has final jurisdiction on land use and zoning issues.

Cyndi Tarapani, of Tarapani Planning Strategies, represented KB Home, at the planning board’s meeting.

She told the planning board:  “We believe we made every reasonable effort to be a good neighbor.”

The future land use designation for the property allows up to six homes per acre, Tarapani noted. This proposal calls for 2.5 homes per acre.

The future land use designation would allow up to 214 homes. The applicant’s initial request was for 150, but that has since been reduced to 109, Tarapani said.

The developer also plans to use 50-foot lots on areas adjacent to neighboring subdivisions and plans to provide buffering, even though none is required, the professional planner added.

Plus, the developer will pay $281,600 to mitigate traffic impacts and will provide a left-turn lane into the property, she said.

But none of the developer’s changes appeased the opposition.

Opponents came ready for battle
An army of objectors — many wearing green shirts and some carrying signs — turned out to the public hearing.

The contingent included students from Land O’ Lakes High School who argued against the rezoning, based on research showing potential environmental threats.

Opponents repeatedly raised concerns about safety hazards on Hale Road, which the county deems a substandard road.

Mike Della-Penna, who lives nearby, said: “There haven’t been many improvements on Hale Road in the 32 years I’ve lived there and I don’t expect many to be happening.”

Others said the proposed density is contrary to existing lot sizes in nearby developments.

“You have an established pattern of development on Hale Road, and these lots don’t meet that standard,” said Lisa Moretti, who opposes the rezoning.

This sign urges rejection of a proposed rezoning on Hale Road, which would allow a subdivision of 109 houses on Hale Road. A portion of the proposed site is next to the Rosebud Continuum, at 22843 Hale Road. (Mike Camunas)

Moretti cited eight approved developments on Hale Road, which have larger lot sizes.

“The proposed development is 109 lots, over 2 ½ times as many as the largest approved development already there and over five times greater than the average approved development,” Moretti said.

“This (proposed) development is totally an aberration of compatibility,” Moretti said.

Dr. T.H. Culhane, another opponent, stepped up to the podium wearing a Patel College of Global Sustainability T-shirt.

“I request, respectfully, that you recommend denial for this land-grab application for this last tiny refuge of wildlife, this last sanctuary of sanity, in an increasingly sprawl-filled neighborhood,” said Culhane, a University of South Florida professor.

Culhane talked about working for six years at the Rosebud Continuum, at 22843 Hale Road. It’s a place that focuses on promoting sustainable living practices.

“I and my professional colleagues — graduate students — have conducted landscape research, habitat restoration and wildlife surveys.

“We’ve worked hard on invasive species removal and repatriation of Florida native plants and wildlife,” Culhane said.

“I scuba-dived Lake Rosebud to observe the alligators and fish, therein, and watched and delighted with the sandhill crane families and gopher tortoises that are all over making their nests, now that we’ve re-wilded the property.”

The Rosebud Continuum relies on the area’s existing character, he said.

“On the world stage, we know we can be far more innovative than the current Hale proposal,” said Culhane, who told the planning board he holds a master’s degree and PhD in urban planning from the University of California Los Angeles.

Michelle Dillard, a nearby resident, raised concerns about the potential runoff causing pollution of nearby lakes. Residents near King Lake already have spent thousands to improve the water quality in that lake, she said.

“We have to keep our lakes safe. We have to keep them alive,” Dillard said.

Speakers asked the planning board to protect the interest of current residents, rather than accommodating developers.

Brian Bishop — whose mother, Maryann Bishop, owns the property occupied by the Rosebud Continuum — said he’s concerned about adding traffic to Hale Road.

“I think we’ve already established that the situation on Hale Road is not a desirable one,” he said. “To me, this is a no-brainer.”

He asked the planning board to not allow KB Home “to make a bad situation worse.”

One resident invited the planning board members to come out to the area to watch traffic when school lets out. She said there’s one particular bicyclist, who has a large backpack on — that she’s seen nearly get hit on more than one occasion.

Russell Watrous, another rezoning opponent, voiced concerns about a potential precedent being set by approval of this request.

“There are four pieces of property on Hale Road, very similar to the one KB Home wants to develop right now,” he said. “We’re at a turning point in Land O’ Lakes, and you can see it. Almost every one of these feeder roads and back, secondary roads are being developed,” Watrous said.

Published September 28, 2022

Basketball coach’s influence honored at Land O’ Lakes High

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For over three decades, he ran basketball players up and down the court — getting them ready for big moments, in big games, in big seasons.

On the evening of June 21, retired Land O’ Lakes High School basketball coach Dave Puhalski had a big moment of his own: That’s when the Pasco County School Board approved a request to name the Land O’ Lakes High School gym after him.

The effort to honor the coach in this way was brought forward by Ric Mellin, the school’s principal, and Heather Wall, the school’s assistant principal. Former assistant coaches, players and others were there, too, to signal their support.

From left: Land O’ Lakes High Principal Ric Mellin; Coach Dave Puhalski; the coach’s wife, Erika; the coach’s children, DD and Kenzie; and Land O’ Lakes High Assistant Principal Heather Wall. (Courtesy of Ric Mellin/Land O’ Lakes High School)

The coach retired in May of 2021.

Mellin addressed the board: “I’m here tonight to speak with you about the dedication of the gym at Land O’ Lakes High School, in honor of Coach Dave Puhalski.

Cheers and applause erupted from the crowd.

“He’s here with his wife Erika, daughter Kenzie and son DD, and I just wanted to mention, both of them are alumni of Land O’ Lakes High School.

“And, as you can tell from the applause, many of his other supporters are also here with us tonight.

“My letter included in the board’s agenda states the reasons why we believe this honor is warranted.

“For just over 30 years, Coach Puhalski served as the head coach of the boys’ basketball team, winning nearly 500 games, earning six conference and six district championships, and taking 15 teams to the playoffs. Very few, if any, coaches ever reached that level of success.

“But more important than the accomplishments on the court were the strong relationships built along the way, as a well-respected mentor and educator at the school during that same time.

“Coach Puhalski taught thousands of students and had a remarkable influence on everyone. In a Tampa Bay Times article about Coach Puhalski, published in February 2020, it stated his hope was for the program to continue standing solidly on the foundation that he built.

“A foundation full of heart and soul.

“In recognition of Coach Puhalski’s successes and devout allegiance to the school’s athletes and programs and the community in which he served for over three decades, we are requesting that the school’s gym be named the Dave Puhalski Gymnasium at Land O’ Lakes High School.

“It certainly has the solid foundation because of his body of work. His name displayed will serve as a stronger reminder of the person that relentlessly gave his heart and soul.”

Assistant Principal Wall also expressed her support:  “As a member of the Land O’ Lakes community for more than 20 years, and now in my role as assistant principal at Land O’ Lakes High School, I’ve had the privilege of knowing or working with Coach Puhalski for quite a few years.

This rendering shows the Land O’ Lakes High School gymnasium, which has been newly christened the Dave Pulhaski Gymnasium at Land O’ Lakes High.

“My husband, and many of his friends all played high school basketball for Coach Puhalski, when they attended Land O’ Lakes High School.

“I have heard endless recounts of big games, as well as stories and pranks that are only fit for locker room conversations,” Wall said, with the audience responding in laughter.

“What they remember the most are the life lessons that were gained from being a part of his program.

“I have seen pictures of Coach Puhalski speaking at former players’ weddings, and know that several years ago, he had the honor to speak at the funeral of one of his former players, Dave Starkey.

“Clearly, he has been asked to carry this role because of the difference he has made in the lives of all of his players.

“When I joined the staff at Land O’ Lakes High School in 2018, I was able to get to know Coach P on my own. I quickly saw the positive impact he made on so many of the students on our campus — both those who played for him and for some who were just in his P.E. classes. He became a mentor and a role model for my son, as well,” she said, noting he still asks about her son.

This coach left an impression
“When you talk to people who live in our community and they find out that you work at the high school, they’re always quick to ask about several of our past coaches,” she said.

People frequently mention that they played soccer, football, baseball or basketball for one of the school’s revered coaches, she added. She noted the school already has named its soccer, baseball and football fields after the outstanding former coaches.

“We would be remiss if we did not honor Coach Puhalski with naming the gym after his 32-year commitment to Land O’ Lakes High School,” Wall added.

“I know I speak for many community members and former players when I say he is so deserving of this honor,” Wall said.

On a motion by Colleen Beaudoin and a second by Megan Harding, the school board unanimously approved the request.

Its action was greeted by another round of cheers and applause.

Coach Puhalski addressed the board: “If I said what I really want to say, we’d be here a long time tonight. I would just like to thank the board for this opportunity and all of my friends, former players, assistant coaches — especially my wife (Erika), who was there for 32 years, and my children (DD and Kenzie).

“I’ll keep it that brief, because, like I said, we’d be here until the lights are off,” he said.

Published June 29, 2022

Chalk Talk 06/01/2022

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Cambridge recognition
San Antonio Elementary School has been recognized by Cambridge Assessment International Education (Cambridge International) as a Demonstration Center, an honor that means it can serve as a model for the prestigious program, according to a news release.

Demonstration Centers are qualified to host showcase events for teacheres, school administrators, and district leaders from around the nation who are interested in learning about Cambridge International.

Cambridge International is dedicated to helping schools deliver the best education possible by providing comprehensive support, including teacher professional development and training, classroom resources, and membership of a global learning community, the release said.

“This is a huge honor for San Antonio Elementary School and for our entire school district,” said Kurt Browning, Pasco superintendent of schools, in the release.

“This speaks volumes about the quality of our teachers and the leadership here. The opportunity this provides our students is incredible,” said Browning.

Pasco Middle School also has been honored as a Demonstration Center.

Visit CambridgeInternational.org for more information.

Finance Challenge
Land O’ Lakes High School is one of the top four teams in the United States for essential skills in personal finance, after winning the Florida state championship and national semifinal rounds in the National Personal Finance Challenge, according to a news release.

The team scored an all-expense-paid trip to New York City on June 5, to compete with three other teams in the national finals.

Organized by the Council for Economic Education (CEE), the Finance Challenge allows high school students to demonstrate mastery of earning, spending, saving, investing, and managing credit and risk.

Only 24 states require students to take a course in personal finance to graduate, according to the CEE and its 2022 Survey of the States.

The Land O’ Lakes team includes Andrew Domonkos, Allen Ho, Rishabh Kanodia and William Shelton, coached by teacher Andrew Camp.

Summer meals program
Pasco County Schools Summer Food Service program will begin on June 6 and continue through July 29.

Breakfasts and lunches will be provided Monday through Thursday to anyone age 18 and younger, at various West Pasco, Central Pasco and East Pasco schools.

Students attending PLACE or Extended School Year programs will receive meals on campus while attending the program.

For school locations, visit Connectplus.pasco.k12.fl.us/summerfoodpasco/site-locations/.

Additionally, buses will be available at these locations, also Monday through Thursday:

  • Hilltop Landings Apartments, 37611 Colina Drive, Dade City
  • Resurrection House Park, 37124 Lock Street, Dade City
  • Trilby United Methodist Church, 37504 Trilby Road, Dade City
  • Zephyrhills YMCA, 37301 Chapel Hill Loop, Zephyrhills
  • Crystal Springs Community Center, 1655 Partridge Blvd., Zephyrhills

For questions and information, email .

Student achievements
• Roland Anthony Chacon, of Lutz, earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from Mars Hill University, North Carolina.
• Tyler Jacob Lala, of Odessa, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Mars Hill University.
• Madison Nichols, of Odessa, was named to the Dean’s List at Nazareth College, Rochester, New York.
• Dylan Schaffer, of Lutz, earned a spot on the Dean’s List at Rockhurst University, Kansas City, Missouri.

Award recipients
Pasco-Hernando State College announced the recipients of the annual NISOD (National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development) Excellence Awards.

The 2022 honorees include: Julie Hendrickson, associate professor and department chair, biological services; VickieAnn Laubach, Ed.D., assistant professor, nursing, and simulation coordinator, health and nursing programs; and Curtis Scaglione, professor and program director, information technology.

NISOD’s awards recognize men and women each year who have demonstrated an outstanding commitment and contribution to their students and colleagues.

“Recognizing those individuals who have contributed to student success and their colleges’ mission is something we look forward to doing each year,” said Dr. Edward J. Leach, NISOD executive director, in a news release.

The NISOD membership organization is committed to promoting and celebrating excellence in teaching, learning and leadership at community and technical colleges.

For information, visit NISOD.org.

2021 offered special moments in local sports (Part One)

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This past year levied countless memories in the local sports scene — from shattered records and career achievements for individuals and teams, to several major events and showcases in the area.

Here is a look back at some of the moments in sports in 2021, from across Pasco and Hillsborough counties, in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area.

(This is Part One of a two-part series.)

Land O’ Lakes Little League celebrates 50th anniversary
The start of each Little League season often elicits a heightened level of nostalgia.

Alissa Canter, vice president Land O’ Lakes Little League, holds the 50th Anniversary charter with director, Gary Gwinn. (File)

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.

For Land O’ Lakes Little League, this year’s Opening Day festivities took on 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 startup — boasting upwards of 800 boys and girls, ages 4 to 16, playing baseball and softball across 10 fields.

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 by the Little League International Headquarters, which is based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

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,” Land O’ Lakes Little League President Gary Gwinn told The Laker/Lutz News.

NBA hopefuls showcase hoops skills in Wesley Chapel
Pasco County and the greater Tampa Bay region isn’t really known for its basketball prowess, but that reputation, or lack thereof, may soon change.

Pursuing dreams of playing professional basketball, a large group of athletes dropped by Wesley Chapel, of all places.

Six-foot-11-inch Nate Reuvers, from the University of Wisconsin, takes a few practice shots prior to the start of the 3-point and slam dunk competitions held during the Tampa Bay Pro Combine. Some 50 players from throughout the country converged in Wesley Chapel for the basketball event. (File)

In early June, some 50 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft-eligible hopefuls descended upon the area to showcase their athleticism and hoops skills in the inaugural Tampa Bay Pro Combine (TBPC), at the AdventHealth Sports Arena at the Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus of Pasco County.

The elite-level hoopers — many from recognizable high and mid-major NCAA Division I programs — dribbled, dunked, jumped, shot and passed their way into the eyes and impressions of various NBA and international coaches and scouts.

Several names may be familiar from deep runs in the 2021 NCAA Men’s Basketball March Madness tournament, such as University of Southern California guard Tahj Eaddy, University of Houston forward Justin Gorham, and University of Loyola-Chicago center Cameron Krutwig, among others.

The three-day event featured drills, games (5-on-5, 2-on-2 and 3-on-3), athletic testing and measurements, as well as a 3-point shootout, dunk contest and more.

The player selection committee was led by ESPN television analyst Fran Fraschilla and BasketballNews.com NBA Draft analyst Matt Babcock, who were there to evaluate players during the weekend.

The competition came together in a matter of about six weeks, seeking to replicate the Virginia-based Portsmouth Invitational Tournament, a long-running hoops combine event canceled a second-straight year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Quade Green was the leading scorer at the University of Washington this past season, at 15.4 points per game.

Like others, it was his first time stepping into the Wiregrass Sports Campus.

He came away impressed with the state-of-the-art digs.

“This is a beautiful gym,” Green said, in an interview with The Laker/Lutz News. “Lot of great players here, great people around you, too. They’ve got connections. Life connections, too, for the long run.”

Zephyrhills runner competes in U.S. Olympic trials
Evan Miller’s sprint for a spot on Team USA for the Tokyo Summer Olympics may have come up short — but it was still an experience most athletes can only ever dream about.

The Zephyrhills athlete on June 25 competed in the U.S. Olympic track and field trials at the legendary Hayward Field in Eugene, Oregon.

Miller — then a rising senior at University of South Carolina — clocked 21.04 seconds in the first-round heat of the men’s 200-meter dash, finishing 23rd overall.

Evan Miller (File)

He competed in the same heat against other widely known professional sprinters, including Terrance Laird and Jaron Flourney, among others.

The competition was televised live nationally on NBC Sports Network.

Miller’s trials mark was a shade off his personal best of 20.50 seconds — which he recorded at the Weems Baskin Relays hosted on-campus at South Carolina in late March; he wound up earning second-team NCAA All-American honors during the season, too.

Miller was one of about 30 sprinters nationwide who either qualified or accepted an invitation, and declared for the men’s 200-meter trials event.

From there, the top three men’s 200-meter finishers at trials earned spots on the U.S. Olympic team — Noah Lyles (first, 19.74 seconds), Kenny Bednarek (second, 19.78) and Erriyon Knighton (third, 19.84).

While disappointed with his own trials output overall, Miller relished the opportunity so very few earn — let alone coming off a 2020 track season hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“All around, it was a really good experience,” Miller told The Laker/Lutz Newspaper. “It was kind of surreal that I was there with the top athletes in the country. It was just a really good feeling. I was kind of trying to take it all in, but I also couldn’t like believe it at the same time.”

Before college, Miller had made a name for himself as a sprinter at Zephyrhills Christian Academy.

His senior year, he won the Class 1A individual crown 100-meter dash (10.75) at the 2018 FHSAA State Track & Field Championships. He also was a leg of the school’s 4×100 relay team that won back-to-back state crowns in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Locals athletes taken in 2021 MLB Draft
It’s not uncommon for at least a few ballplayers from area high schools and colleges to be taken in the Major League Baseball (MLB) first-year player draft.

The year 2012 was no different, as five local athletes from The Laker/Lutz News coverage area were taken in the nationally televised draft, which spanned 20 rounds (and 612) picks from July 11 through July 13:

  • Sunlake High/University of Florida pitcher Tommy Mace (Cleveland Indians/Guardians, Comp B, 69th overall)
  • Wharton High shortstop Zach Ehrhard (Boston Red Sox, 13th round, 376th overall)
  • Gaither High shortstop A.J. Graham (Pittsburgh Pirates, 18th round, 523rd overall)
  • Saint Leo University left-handed pitcher Jimmy Burnette (Toronto Blue Jays, 18th round, 543rd overall)
  • Gaither High/University of Texas third baseman Cam Williams (Kansas City Royals, 19th round, 559th overall)
Sunlake High/University of Florida product Tommy Mace was selected 69th overall by the Cleveland Indians (now named Guardians) in the 2021 MLB first-year player draft. (File)

Every player, except for Ehrhard opted to sign with their drafted team, for various dollar figures.

Mace — the highest selection from the local community — inked with the Indians (now Guardians) for a $1.1 million signing bonus; Graham signed with the Pirates for $125,000; Burnette signed with Blue Jays for $50,000; and, Williams signed with the Royals for $25,000.

Ehrhard, meanwhile, will play collegiate baseball at NCAA Division I Oklahoma State University, majoring in applied exercise science with a focus on strength and conditioning. He was this year’s recipient of the 2021 Wade Boggs Athletic Achievement Award, which honors a high school baseball player in Hillsborough County on the basis of outstanding athletic, scholastic and community achievements.

(While slightly outside our coverage area in west Pasco County, Fivay High/University of Mississippi product Gunnar Hoglund went in the first round (19th overall) to the Blue Jays. The 6-foot-4, 220-pound right-hander from Hudson ultimately signed with the team for just under $3.25 million.)

National champion returns home to teach aspiring players
Land O’ Lakes native Shannon Saile was a part of history — guiding the University of Oklahoma women’s softball team to the 2021 NCAA Division I national title, serving as one of its top senior pitchers.

With her decorated athletic career in tow, Saile’s next major task was organizing a series of fastpitch softball clinics to train the next generation of youth standouts.

Shannon Saile, left, a national champion softball pitcher for the Oklahoma Sooners, explains the fundamentals of the fast pitch to 11-year-old Laila McClelland, center, of Odessa. (File)

To do that, the 23-year-old returned to her central Pasco hometown and set foot on the same park ballfields that forged a pathway for myriad athletic accomplishments.

The upstart Shannon Saile Pitching Clinic was held on July 25 at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, home to Land O’ Lakes Little League.

About 30 girls — ages 8 to 15 — took part on a steamy Sunday, eager to take in guidance from Saile and other widely known pitching instructors and volunteers.

With Saile’s tutelage, young campers sharpened their fastballs and secondary offerings like changeups, through arm path mechanics and leg drive techniques, as well as various speed, agility and balance drills.

“I just hope that I can teach them the foundation of pitching, because it’s much more important than just getting out there and throwing pitches,” Saile explained to The Laker/Lutz News. “The drills are super important, because they help me grow my strength and my confidence in my pitches.”

Besides learning newfound softball techniques, campers also had an opportunity to get signed autographs and take pictures with Saile, who’s become a household name in the sports world. She was invited to ESPN’s nationally televised 2021 ESPY Awards, for being part of one of the best moments from the year in sports.

Saile goes down as one of the most accomplished — if not most accomplished — fastpitch softball players to ever come out of Land O’ Lakes High School and the greater Tampa Bay area.

As a Gator, she amassed 517 strikeouts and a career 1.76 ERA in four varsity seasons from 2013 to 2016, also compiling a combined 41 wins, 31 complete games, 11 shutouts and five no-hitters.

The advancement to the college ranks likewise went swimmingly for the 5-foot-7 right-hander.

Saile began her Division I softball career at Florida International University, finding immediate success with a pair of sub-2.00 ERA seasons in the circle, before transferring to Oklahoma.

As a redshirt senior this past season, Saile posted an impressive 1.70 ERA and 1.06 WHIP while being second on the team in wins (17), innings pitched (100.1), complete games (six), and strikeouts (132).

Published December 29, 2021

New 410-home subdivision approved in Land O’ Lakes

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The Pasco County Commission has approved a new subdivision in Land O’ Lakes, on the north side of Wisteria Loop, approximately 2,100 feet west of U.S. 41.

The development, known as the Clark master-planned unit development (MPUD) has been approved for up to 410 single-family attached and detached residences.

The request was submitted by the Robert J. Clark Jr. Trust and the John M. Clark Revocable Trust.

The land previously was zoned for agricultural residential, estate residential and rural density mobile home zoning.

The approved plan calls for a mixture of lot sizes.

Conditions also include a requirement for architectural details to prevent monotony in the design and a requirement for trees within the development.

The subdivision will have access to Causeway Boulevard to the north. It will not have vehicular access to Bexley Road/Wisteria Loop except during emergencies.

The upland portions of the project in the southeast and southwest shall be preserved for open space/stormwater/mitigation, as depicted on the Master Plan, and shall not be developed for residential uses as they would not have direct access to the project’s internal roadways/Causeway Boulevard, according to materials contained in the county board’s agenda packet.

The master plan also shows pedestrian/sidewalk access to Land O’Lakes High School on the northeast and to the conceptual/planned Bexley/Wisteria Trail, the agenda materials show.

Published December 15, 2021