The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Lutz Lake Fern Road

Tracing the development of early Lutz

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Once one of the most active stops for wood-burning locomotives, Lutz was settled with just a handful of homesteaders.

William Paul Lutz was a railroad engineer. He and his brother, Charles, played a pivotal role in the history of Lutz, a community north of Tampa. (Photographs courtesy of Susan A. MacManus)
William Paul Lutz was a railroad engineer. He and his brother, Charles, played a pivotal role in the history of Lutz, a community north of Tampa.
(Photographs courtesy of Susan A. MacManus)

There was a store and a couple of houses there in 1907, and once the Tampa Northern Railroad was extended from Brooksville to Tampa that same year, the Concord Stagecoach Line went out of business.

But, that news didn’t discourage two brothers from West Virginia — William Paul Lutz and Charles Henry Lutz.

That’s because one of the largest sawmills in northwest Hillsborough County was the Gulf Pine Lumber Company — which was south of Odessa and owned by Charles Lutz.

In 1909, Charles Lutz built a tram track to carry his lumber 10 miles to the east, connecting his sawmill to the Tampa Northern Railroad at what is now Lutz Lake Fern Road and U.S. 41.

William Lutz — Charles’ brother — was the railroad engineer.

Most of the area was “nothin’ but sand,” according to the recollections of Dorothy Lutz Jones, stepdaughter of William Lutz.

“Then from there on to Tampa, there was nothin’ until you got there, down to the city,” Jones is quoted in an account published by local historian Susan A. MacManus, a professor at the University of South Florida.

First Lutz United Brethren Church was built in 1914. Before that, church members met at Lutz School.
First Lutz United Brethren Church was built in 1914. Before that, church members met at Lutz School.

MacManus and her mother, Elizabeth Riegler MacManus, wrote “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters and Crackers: Life in Early Lutz and Central Pasco County.

William Lutz is reported to have witnessed “strange events” as he engineered his train through such a remote countryside.

“It was not uncommon to come across public hangings and to see some unfortunate soul with his neck still in the noose,” the local history book notes.

According to his wife’s journal, William Lutz sold cars on the side and would take orders for a vehicle, and then strike one on the tracks with his locomotive.

“The railroad would pay for the damaged car, Lutz would buy it, have it repaired, and then sell it to his customer,” according to a published account.

William Lutz exhibited a better side of his nature to the family of Ella McDowell in December 1912. Ella had received a handwritten note thrown from the train by Lutz inviting her to ride with him to Tarpon Springs and spend Christmas with his family.

Trains like these helped pave the way to Florida’s future. (Courtesy of Tampa Bay History Center)
Trains like these helped pave the way to Florida’s future.
(Courtesy of Tampa Bay History Center)

The year — 1912 — was also a memorable year for the local residents demanding their own post office.

That was largely because the investors of the North Tampa Land Company.

C.E. Thomas, the company’s president, had been busy marketing “…a vast settlement where folks could buy tracts of land to farm and raise orange groves,” according to the MacManus’ book.

Thomas would eventually build the new post office, and donate land for the wood-frame schoolhouse, cemetery and church. He even provided jobs with his nursery.

But, when postal officials named the new post office “Lutz” on March 27, 1912, they helped cement the memory of the contributions of the two Lutz brothers, in an area still generally known today as North Tampa.

Doug Sanders has a penchant for unearthing interesting stories about local history. His sleuthing skills have been developed through his experiences in newspaper and government work. If you have an idea for a future history column, contact Doug at .

Published November 9, 2016

 

Having fun, and learning, at the library

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There’s more than just books to check out

It won’t be long before school bells ring in a new year, but before they do, there’s still ample opportunity to have fun at local libraries during summer break.

Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
Three-year-old Daniel Price uses his fingers as pretend binoculars, as he is shaded by a Tampa Bay Rays poster held by his grandmother, Paula Powell, of Zephyrhills. They were at the Zephyrhills Public Library standing outside, while Zephyrhills Police Department Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci gave people a chance to get a close look at his patrol car.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

There also are plenty of ways — besides books — to learn at local libraries.

For instance, people who wanted to learn more about the work that police officers do had a chance to do that on June 22 when Gio Marcacci, a patrol officer from the Zephyrhills Police Department, dropped by the Zephyrhills Public Library to talk about his job.

Police officers do more than arrest criminals. They’re often involved in community events, too. In fact, Marcacci saved a child from choking during the Zephyrhills’ Founders Day Parade.

During his visit to the library at 5347 Eighth St., in Zephyrhills, the police officer showed parents and children his handgun, flashlight and Taser, and gave them a chance to check out his patrol car, while explaining the various features.

From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.
From left, seven-year-olds Eli Morel and Nicholas Purcell, both of Zephyrhills, listen to Zephyrhills Patrol Officer Gio Marcacci as he discusses the items in his utility belt. Four-year-old Noah Purcell sits on the lap of his mom, Nicole Purcell, of Zephyrhills, as he listens, too.

Another summer break may be nearly over, but there’s still fun to be had at various local libraries. Of course, the fun doesn’t stop when school resumes. Libraries always have interesting offerings for their patrons. Check out the websites for the Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative (HCPLC.org) and the Pasco County Library Cooperative (PascoLibraries.org), and search for events, to get a better idea of what’s available. There are programs for people of all ages and interests.

Meanwhile, here’s a sampling of some coming events:

Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes 34639

  • Join us to build some awesome projects with our new LEGO kits. For youths age 9 to 15. Call (813) 920-1214 to register. July 30, 10 a.m. to noon.

Hugh Embry Branch Library, 14215 Fourth St., Dade City 33523

  • Free food, Pictionary and Monopoly. For youths in grades eight through 12. July 27, 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

 Austin Davis Library, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa, 33556

  • Calling all pirates and princesses: Journey with us through games and crafts as we discover all things needed in our castle. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. July 26, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Leah’s Cartooning: Learn how to draw and color cartoons with local artist Leah Lopez. The library supplies the materials. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by the Friends of the Austin Davis Library). July 28, 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa, 33618

  • Pilot a quadcopter: For ages 8 and older. Must register in person, one hour prior to event. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 26, 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Fritzy Brothers One-Man Circus: Be entertained by juggling, unicycling and other circus activities. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library) July 29, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa, 33647

  • Wonders of Nature: See the free-flying behaviors of raptors and parrots and learn about conservation. For children in kindergarten through fifth grade. (Funded by Friends of the New Tampa Regional Library) July 28, 11 a.m. to noon; and, also from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. the same day.

Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz, 33548

  • Suds It Up: Learn how to make your own soap by choosing a mold that suits your style and adding your own fragrance and color. For youths in grades six through 12. (Funded by Friends of The Lutz Branch Library) July 25, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Published July 20, 2016

Lutz is gearing up for the Fourth of July

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The Fourth of July is just weeks away, and Lutz is gearing up for its annual festivities.

This is a place that enjoys its Independence Day traditions, and it likes the community to join in on the fun.

So, if you’re thinking about being in the Fourth of July Parade, it’s a good idea to let Cheryl Benton know. She’s the one that makes sure you get your form filled out, so she can reserve you a spot in the parade lineup.

And, if you’re looking to earn some bragging rights for your baking skills, it’s a good time to get in touch with Karin D’Amico to find out about the rules and categories in the Cake Bake competition.

Three-a-half-year-old Logan Freelen got an early start at the one-mile run during Fourth of July festivities last year in Lutz. The little boy makes his way up Lutz Lake Fern Road with his dad, Richard Freelen of Riverview, during the last leg of the run before the start of the parade and festivities. (File Photo)
Three-a-half-year-old Logan Freelen got an early start at the one-mile run during Fourth of July festivities last year in Lutz. The little boy makes his way up Lutz Lake Fern Road with his dad, Richard Freelen of Riverview, during the last leg of the run before the start of the parade and festivities.
(File Photo)

If you’re planning to run in the 5K or take part in the 1-mile fun run or family walk, Terry Donovan is the guy who is in charge of those activities.

The main thing is, if you want to take part, it’s not too early to begin gearing up for the annual event.

One of the highlights each year is the auction that takes place after the parades, where cakes and pies that have been entered into the Cake Bake competition go home with the highest bidder.

And, finding out who will win the annual Lutz Guv’na race is always fun, too.

This annual competition, which raises money for local organizations, is a good-natured competition where the only qualification that the winner must possess is the ability to raise money. Whoever raises the most money wins.

This year, Greg Gilbert and Andre Pamplona are squaring off to see who will claim the title and be sworn in over a copy of Dr. Seuss’ “Green Eggs and Ham.”

The 5k and fun run get things rolling, generally drawing in the neighborhood of about 600 participants, said Donovan, the race director.

Runners begin arriving around 6 a.m., to register or pick up their packets.

The 5k is a chip-timed event.

The race, which originates at the Lutz Community Center, has been going on for decades.

And, many of the runners have been racing since they were young, Donovan said.

“I don’t really run anymore, I shuffle,” he joked.

The cake and pie competition also tends to get a lot of repeat entries.

Last year’s cake and pie contest drew 28 entries, including a 5-pound apple pie, a cake shaped like a fish and another with the look of the community’s iconic train depot.

Wilma Lewis had eight entries in the competition.

And, Shirley Simmons entered her famous, made-from-scratch pound cake, which fetched $75 in the auction after the parade.

Those interested in entering the competition should touch base with D’Amico to find out the various categories.

The parade — which has an old-fashioned feel — tends to attract scouts, schools, politicians, community organizations, law enforcement and local businesses.

It also draws a wide assortment of vehicles, ranging from antique fire trucks to flatbed trucks, military vehicles to classic cars, and bicycles to convertibles.

The parade route, which goes down Lutz-Lake Fern Road, turns to go in front of the Lutz Branch Library.

“We have 11 different trophies,” Benton said. “We have one for antique vehicles. One for bicycle entry. One for commercial. One for a family entry. Most comical. Most patriotic. Neighborhood entry. Walking unit. Youth entry. Judge’s favorite. Grand Marshal’s Choice.”

She thinks people enjoy the Fourth of July festivities because it’s a fun way to start off the holiday.

“It’s crafted after an old-timey Fourth in the park,” Benton said.

“It’s a community thing. It’s something for the kids to do on the Fourth of July,” Benton said.

All sorts of entries are welcome, she said. But, she does have a request: “Please no high-powered water guns,” she said.

“Because they have soaked little babies before,” she explained, and that’s not cool, she added.

Benton is in charge of getting the parade entries lined up along the route.

That requires marking spots on the street, based on the size of the entry, she said.

“It’s a hot job, I can tell you that,” she said, noting the spot for each entry must be painted on the street.

“They can email me, and I can email them an entry. It’s .”

Lutz Independence Day festivities
July 3
Cake entry drop off: Call Karin D’Amico at (813) 786-8461 for time and location

July 4
Festivities take place at 101 First Ave. N.E., in Lutz

6:30 a.m. to 7 a.m.: Cake registration deadline. For information, call Karin D’Amico at (813) 786-8461

8 a.m.: 5K begins (registration and packet pickups begin at 6 a.m.) For information about the 5K, 1-mile fun run and family walk, call Terry Donovan at (813) 949-6659

8:45 a.m.: 1-mile fun run and family walk begins

9 a.m.: Flag raising ceremony

9:30 am: Race trophies presented

10 a.m.: Lutz Community Parade begins. To sign up to be in the parade, email Cheryl Benton at Although she prefers emails, she can be reached by telephone at (813) 948-0823.

11 a.m.: New Guv’na sworn in; parade trophies awarded; Cake Bake Auction

Parade breakdown begins immediately after the festivities. Volunteers are welcome to help.

Published June 8, 2016

Hillsborough libraries offer summer fun

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Families looking for ways to help occupy their children during the summer may want to check out the events offered through Hillsborough County’s public libraries in north Hillsborough County.

Some events scheduled in coming weeks include puppet shows, art programs and robotics.

Spectators of ‘Wild Florida, Alive!’ can explore the wild side of Florida and learn about animals that make the state so unique. This is just one program being offered for free through the Lutz Branch Library and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library this month. (Courtesy of Creative Arts Theatre, of the City of Tampa)
Spectators of ‘Wild Florida, Alive!’ can explore the wild side of Florida and learn about animals that make the state so unique. This is just one program being offered for free through the Lutz Branch Library and the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library this month.
(Courtesy of Creative Arts Theatre, of the City of Tampa)

One coming attraction, offered through the Lutz Branch Library, is “Wild Florida, Alive,” a show that will be presented by the Creative Arts Theatre of the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department.

The presentation explores the wild side of Florida and helps spectators discover the animals that make the state unique.

It’s an environmental adventure, highlighting Florida’s endangered species through live theater, shadow puppetry, and music.

The program is geared toward those around age 5 and older. It will be offered at the Lutz Community Center, which is next to the library, on June 14 at 11 a.m., and again at 2 p.m. It lasts 30 to 45 minutes.

Meg Heimstead, supervisor for the Creative Arts Theatre and ArtReach, said she enjoys watching children’s reactions to the shows.

“It’s such a joyous experience, when a child sees a puppet come to life and that puppet interacts with them,” Heimstead said.

The performers aim to encourage children to read, she said, noting the presentations are based on, or inspired by, literary sources.

Another show being presented through the Lutz Branch Library features dogs and comedy.

“The Tricky Dogs Show” will be presented June 28 from 2 p.m. to 3.p.m.

Like the puppet show, this show, which features a circus-style dog comedy act, will be at the Lutz Community Center, 98 First Ave. N.W.

The Lutz Branch Library, which hosts a number of other special events every month, is at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz.

Upcoming events at other area libraries are:

At the Jimmie B. Keel Regional Library, 2902 W. Bearss Ave., Tampa:

  • “Robotix Blox,” June 14 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Kids will use Lego Mindstorms, and those taking part will work together on robot building and coding. Recommended for those ages 8 and older. The program is limited to 20 participants. Those wanting to join in must register no earlier than one hour before the program begins.

  • “Art Over Summer,” June 21 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This program encourages children between kindergarten and fifth grade to express themselves through art. They’ll be making items to take home.

  • “Three Wishes on a Magic Fish,” June 22 from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Bits ‘N Pieces Puppet Theatre will tell a story about a fisherman, a magic fish and three wishes. It is geared for kindergarten through fifth-graders.

  • “Wild Florida, Alive,” June 25 from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Learn about Florida’s unique wild life through live theater, shadow puppetry and masks. For those age 5 and older.

At the New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., in Tampa:

  • “Lost World Reptiles,” June 16, 11 a.m. to noon

In this program, for kindergarten through fifth-graders, Gino Sassani presents live snakes and reptiles in an educational program about the slithery creatures.

  • “Books We Love to Sing,” June 30 from 11 a.m. to noon; and 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Christine VanHorn will lead an interactive musical experience, bringing classic children’s books and songs to life. For kindergarten through fifth-graders.

For more information, visit HCPLC.org, and click on the Events & Classes tab, and then the By Branch tab.

Published June 1, 2016

New charter school won’t open until 2017

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Several families in the Lutz and Land O’ Lakes area were anticipating Sunlake Academy of Math and Science to open in time for the 2016-2017 school year, but that isn’t going to happen.

Instead, the public charter school, which is being built at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz, is set to open in August 2017.

This is a prototype of what Sunlake Academy will look like once it’s complete. The 40,000-square-foot facility expects to accommodate 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade. (Photos courtesy of Charter School Associates)
This is a prototype of what Sunlake Academy will look like once it’s complete. The 40,000-square-foot facility expects to accommodate 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade.
(Photos courtesy of Charter School Associates)

The school, operated by Charter School Associates (CSA), scheduled a Parent Information Session on April 11, expecting to open for the 2016-2017 school year. But on April 27, Michael Strader, president of Charter School Associates, addressed a letter to parents and guardians, saying, “the opening of Sunlake Academy of Math and Science will be deferred to August 2017.”

He explained the delay this way: “Although the property developer and general contractor were originally confident that our new school would be ready for the Aug. 10 opening date, we recently learned that delays in the receipt of various building and site permits will push the completion of the school past that date.”

In an interview with the Laker/Lutz News, Strader indicated his group tried finding a temporary facility to hold classes until construction was complete, but to no avail.

“We couldn’t find an existing facility nearby that would be within a reasonable commute—like people who live close to where the school is planned—that would accommodate the number of students that made applications,” Strader said. “We really…examined a number of options, including area churches. We looked to see if there were any hotels with large conference facilities or meeting facilities in the immediate area, and there just seemed to be none available that we could schedule for several weeks.”

The highway entrance of Sunlake Academy, at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. Up until April 27, the school advertised it would open in August 2016.
The highway entrance of Sunlake Academy, at 18711 North Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz. Up until April 27, the school advertised it would open in August 2016.

Several parents suggested the possibility of utilizing portable classroom buildings in the short-term. However, Strader noted portable classrooms weren’t really a feasible option, either.

“The only thing with portables is they require many of the same infrastructure that a permanent building would require with utility connections, hard roads for life safety vehicles — fire trucks, ambulances — so portable classrooms aren’t as simple as just bringing them in and setting them up,” Strader said.

Sunlake Academy was originally proposed to be located on an 8.4-acre piece of land at the southwest corner of Lutz Lake Fern Road and Sunlake Boulevard. However, those plans changed after objections from nearby residents and numerous conditions attached to the county’s approval for the site.

Changing locations and obtaining site permits for the North Dale Mabry location has been an ongoing process, Strader acknowledged.

“I understand that (the North Dale Mabry) area is going through a whole new floodplain recalculation by the Southwest Florida Water Management District, so that had some kind of impacts on it, and we were just later than anticipated in receiving all the site permits, and that’s what ultimately put the project behind,” the CSA president said.

Once open, the 40,000-square-foot, two-story charter will be large enough to accommodate about 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade. The charter, which will be tax-funded and tuition-free, is expected to pull students from within a 5-mile radius of the school’s location, which is about a half-mile north of Exciting Idlewild Boulevard.

It will have a focus on STEM curriculum, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math. It also will offer an interdisciplinary approach to learning, in which lessons will emphasize the interrelationships between various subjects.

The school’s features will include a library and media center, science laboratories, computer labs, art rooms and an area for outdoor activities.

Despite the school’s deferred opening, Strader said he’s had conversations the school’s developer, Charter School Properties, to ensure construction isn’t delayed even further, “so that prospective parents could certainly see a building there and have confidence that the school will indeed be ready for August 2017.”

According to Strader, the school was expected to be built in two phases, progressively adding more students during each phase. Now with the additional construction time, both phases should be complete for the 2017-2018 school year.

“There was a lot of interest in the school and we had done quite well with interested parents,” he said. “So, if the demand is still there next year, we’ll have the facilities to grow…beyond the initial 600 students that we’d anticipated for this year.”

Published May 11, 2016

Carrying a torch for peace

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‘Peace

Such a wonderful thing

It makes you think of a bell’s ring’

The message of peace in Jonathan Fields’ poem hung in the air.

It was written on paper, dangling on a string — reminiscent of  a knitted square in a quilt of poetry made by students at Learning Gate Community School.

Natabara Rolloson of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Peace Run leads Learning Gate students on a race across the campus. (ourtesy of Pierre Lantuas-Monfouga)
Natabara Rolloson of the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Peace Run leads Learning Gate students on a race across the campus.
(Courtesy of Pierre Lantuas-Monfouga)

About 600 students at the Lutz-based charter school shared artwork, poetry and songs of peace with the North American torch relay team from the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Peace Run.

About a dozen relay runners dropped by both Learning Gate campuses on May 3.

The kindergarten through sixth grade school is on Hanna Road. The school for seventh- and eighth-graders is on Lutz Lake Fern Road.

The torch runners also made visits to a school and neighborhood center in Pinellas County before heading to Alabama.

The team is on a 10,000-mile North American relay that began in New York City in mid-April and will finish in New York in mid-August. Members represented several countries including the United States, France and Hungary.

The “Peace Run” is the inspiration of Sri Chinmoy, an athlete, philosopher, artist, musician and poet who organized the inaugural run in 1987 to promote international friendship. Since then more than 5 million people have participated and runners have visited more than 140 countries, according to the website for the Peace Run foundation.

Cathy Oerter, left, gave certificates of excellence from the Al Oerter Foundation to Learning Gate students, Simon Noguerol and Kaitlyn Detuccio. Al Oerter was a four-time Olympic gold medalist. (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)
Cathy Oerter gave certificates of excellence from the Al Oerter Foundation to Learning Gate students Simon Noguerol and Kaitlyn Detuccio. Al Oerter was a four-time Olympic gold medalist.
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

To prepare for the visit, Learning Gate students wrote poems. First-graders created paper chains with messages for peace. Students also practiced songs to perform for their guests.

“Each student wrote a way they show peace to each other,” said first-grader Margo Armstrong who read from a statement from classmates on why they made the peace chain.

“You children are definitely the voices of the world,” said Cathy Oerter.  “It’s all about the journey of self-discovery.”

Oerter’s husband, Al Oerter, was a four-time Olympic gold medalist in the discus throw. He was the first athlete to win gold at four consecutive Olympic games, setting records each time.

He died in 2007 but his nonprofit Al Oerter Foundation continues to promote character and integrity through support for sports and the arts.

His wife said the foundation often partners with the Sri Chinmoy relay runs.

She presented certificates of excellence to two Learning Gate fifth-graders Simon Noguerol and Kaitlyn Detuccio.

Several students read their poems.

Learning Gate fifth-grader J. B. Montague, holds the relay torch with Andran DeAngelo, captain of the relay team for the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Peach Run.
Learning Gate fifth-grader J. B. Montague, holds the relay torch with Andran DeAngelo, captain of the relay team for the Sri Chinmoy Oneness-Peach Run.

Fourth-grader J.B. Montague shared his mathematical prowess, detailing his classmates’ accomplishments in March, the national month for reading awareness.

He added up more than 12 million seconds spent in reading.

The motto for the bi-annual torch relay is ‘Peace begins with me.”  The run promotes the universal connections among people around the world, said Arpan DeAngelo, the United States team captain.

Besides the North American relay, a second team began a 16,000-mile run in Portugal in February and that will conclude in Rome in October. A third relay in the South Pacific begins this month.

Relay runner Natabara Rolloson led students on a brief race as a “peace train” across campus, leading the way and carrying the flaming torch. At the end, students were invited to walk up, touch the torch and make a wish for peace.

“It helps children and adults to realize that peace is very natural to anyone of any age,” said DeAngelo.

For information, visit PeaceRun.org.

Published May 11, 2016

 

He calls cats purr-fect companions

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The license plate on his car reads “BigCats.”

But, when it comes to cats, Denny Mitchell doesn’t care whether they’re big, small or medium. He loves them all.

And, he wants to persuade others that they should love the furry felines, too.

Denny Mitchell is a devoted cat aficionado who sings the praises of cats – literally – at his musical tribute show, “All About Cats.” (Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)
Denny Mitchell is a devoted cat aficionado who sings the praises of cats – literally – at his musical tribute show, “All About Cats.”
(Kathy Steele/Staff Photos)

While dogs may be a man’s best friend, the way Mitchell sees it: “Cats are our best companions.”

Two years ago, Mitchell took his passion for cats on the road.

He educates and entertains audiences, generally from age 8 and older, at libraries, senior centers and civic groups with his musical tribute “All About Cats.”

On Feb. 27 at 2 p.m., he will bring his musical show to the Lutz Branch Library, at 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road in Lutz.

The Friends of the Lutz Branch Library is sponsoring the event, which has free admission.

Mitchell, owner of Meowser Productions, spent more than a year composing music and lyrics, and crafting a slide and video show to cover the history and habits of cats.

He brings his keyboard and sound system. A robotic, white-furred cat, named Tallulah, also accompanies him – arriving in a pink cat carrier.

Tallulah rests regally atop a purple pillow, where she purrs, meows and washes her face with slow paw swipes.

“She sets the mood,” Mitchell explained.

He sprinkles his performance with humor and original songs — though sometimes he also sings “Memory,” the show-stopping tune from the musical “Cats.”

Mitchell researches his facts.

Among his nuggets are:

  • Cats date back 35 million years.
  • The Egyptian word for cat is mao, meaning “to see.” In ancient Egypt people were fascinated by a cat’s eyes.
  • Cats, per pound, are 12 times stronger than humans.
  • Adult cats have 244 bones; humans, 206.
  • A cat’s field of vision is about 200 degrees.

Mitchell, who grew up on Long Island, New York, shared his mother’s love for cats.

Tallulah is a robotic cat that purrs and meows as it rests on a purple pillow, when Denny Mitchell begins his musical tribute to cats, “All About Cats.”
Tallulah is a robotic cat that purrs and meows as it rests on a purple pillow, when Denny Mitchell begins his musical tribute to cats, “All About Cats.”

On Christmas Eve, when he was 5, the family heard a plaintive meowing.

“We opened the front door, and there was the tiniest little black kitten all by himself,” Mitchell said.

Clancy, as he was named, had found a home.

It’s a cliché story, he said, but it’s true.

Cats have freedom of choice, he said. “They pick us. We don’t pick them.”

Mitchell is a self-described ailurophile, that is, cat lover.

He is passionate about helping nonprofits that find homes for abandoned cats and that help feral cats living on the streets.

He volunteers as a tour guide at Big Cat Rescue, an animal sanctuary in Citrus Park, near Tampa. The organization rescues and houses exotic cats, including lions, tigers, bobcats and cougars.

A foster program at Big Cat Rescue temporarily houses kittens until they are ready for adoption. The program is in partnership with Humane Society Tampa Bay.

Mitchell became a volunteer at Big Cat Rescue after taking a tour there about 15 years ago.

A few years ago, while he was giving a tour, a promoter on the tour commented on Mitchell’s wit and humor. The promoter suggested that Mitchell put together a show.

So, Mitchell did.

“The mission is to inform, raise money for nonprofits and hopefully pay my expenses — though that is secondary,” Mitchell said.

Kittens can be viewed on live cam as they play at the Kitten Cabana at Big Cat Rescue. (Courtesy of Denny Mitchell)
Kittens can be viewed on live cam as they play at the Kitten Cabana at Big Cat Rescue.
(Courtesy of Denny Mitchell)

While it wasn’t his college major, music has been one of Mitchell’s chief interests for years.

He has written lyrics and performed music, and for more than three decades, he has played piano and sang at church, often as a soloist.

He’s constantly doing volunteer work with cats.

Mitchell has given donations to that group and others, including Humane Society Tampa Bay and Humane Society of Pinellas. Both agencies have trap, neuter, vaccinate and return programs for feral cats, as well as offering foster care and adoptions for domesticated cats.

“This is how you break the breeding cycle,” said Mitchell. “It’s a harsh life (for feral cats).”

Mitchell lives in Seffner with his wife, who also volunteered for 13 years at Big Cat Rescue. She now spends most of her time operating a boarding stable for horses.

“We are very much animal people,” Mitchell said.

And, of course, they have cats.

“I told my wife I thought we should have two. So, we have five,” he said.

Want to know more?
You can see live cams of Big Cat Rescue’s kitten rescue operation by going to Explore.org/bigcatrescue.
You can also visit Denny Mitchell’s website, MeowserProductions.com, to find links to area nonprofits and about adoption events.

Published February 10, 2016

Recycling and fun are major themes at Learning Gate

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The seventh- and eighth-graders were so revved up, it seemed like they were competing for a big cash prize.

But, they were battling for something that has no price tag.

Plastic trays, garden hose, plate liners and tin molds are used to bring life to the side of a storage shed at Learning Gate Community School’s seventh- and eighth-grade campus. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)
Plastic trays, garden hose, plate liners and tin molds are used to bring life to the side of a storage shed at Learning Gate Community School’s seventh- and eighth-grade campus.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

They were going after bragging rights during a physical challenge at Learning Gate Community School, at the school’s seventh- and eighth-grade campus at 207 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road.

The kids were clearly having a blast, as they crab walked, kangaroo hopped, buzzard circled, salamander slithered, inch walked and piggyback rode through a relay race in the school’s auditorium.

The place was rocking with cheers and laughter, as teams raced back and forth.

The relay race is just one of the challenges that students have participated in this year, said Principal Michelle Mason said.

The challenges vary. Sometimes they’re physical. Other times they’re academic or have another focus.

“We make sure everybody has a chance to be the star and use their natural gift,” Mason said.

The students are competitive, she said.

But, points can be earned in other ways, too, the principal said.

Teachers can reward students that they notice are going above and beyond — academically, socially or behaviorally.

“We try to make sure that we encourage them in all different ways,” she said.

Although the elementary school and the middle school are on two different campuses, the school makes it a point to build on the curriculum, to give students a seamless education, she said.

The school places a heavy emphasis on environmental education and has won national recognition.

It received a 2014 Best of Green Schools award from the U.S. Green Building Council for the annual EcoFest that the school organizes.

Originally held on the school’s campus in Lutz, the event became so popular that it was moved to Tampa’s Lowry Park.

The event brings together businesses, organizations and individuals from Tampa Bay dedicated to the principles of sustainability.

The elementary campus has a sizable garden, and the seventh- and eighth-grade campus will be adding one.

This is the first year that the seventh- and eighth-graders have been housed at the Lutz Lake Fern Road campus, in a building that previously housed Hand in Hand Academy.

The seventh- and eighth-graders had been attending classes in an office building on Florida Avenue, but that was always intended as a temporary location.

At Learning Gate Community School’s seventh- and eighth-grade campus, the words ‘upcycle’ and ‘recycle’ are part of the school’s daily life. They’re reusing an old building for their school and are using ingenuity to create outdoor décor. Spray paint and hubcaps can be transformed into outdoor whimsical décor.
At Learning Gate Community School’s seventh- and eighth-grade campus, the words ‘upcycle’ and ‘recycle’ are part of the school’s daily life. They’re reusing an old building for their school and are using ingenuity to create outdoor décor. Spray paint and hubcaps can be transformed into outdoor whimsical décor.

The charter school had been seeking to build a school for grades six through 12 off U.S. 41, but those attempts were abandoned after community opposition to the proposed site.

The Lutz Lake Fern Road location gives the students what they need, Mason said.

“We spent all summer getting this in shape for the kids to come in. We made it work for us,” she said.

“We’ve kind of been using the whole theme of recycling,” she said. “We’ve recycled and reused this older building.”

Outside, spray-painted bicycle rims and old hubcaps have been transformed into flowers, and a shack is decked out with flowers, featuring recycled items and green garden hose.

This campus has 176 students and can accommodate up to 205.

The school originally wanted up to 250 students, but agreed to compromise with community representatives for a maximum of 205.

“I think it was a good compromise,” Mason said.

Published January 27, 2016

Trail extension receives rave reviews

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A new 4.35-mile section of the Upper Tampa Bay Trail is receiving widespread approval from walkers, joggers and cyclists, alike.

“The general feedback has been very positive,” said Forest Turbiville, Hillsborough County’s director of conservation and environmental lands management. “I mean, people love it.”

New Port Richey seasonal resident Bob Zook, 70, leads a pack of riders north on the trail, passing southbound riders, south of the new rest facility at 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road. Zook also leads a group of senior bicyclists every Tuesday from the Ja-Mar Mobile Home Community. (Fred Bellet/Photos)
New Port Richey seasonal resident Bob Zook, 70, leads a pack of riders north on the trail, passing southbound riders, south of the new rest facility at 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road. Zook also leads a group of senior bicyclists every Tuesday from the Ja-Mar Mobile Home Community.
(Fred Bellet/Photos)

The $6.2 million project, which was unveiled on Dec. 1, featured the completion of the northernmost segment of the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, making it the first-paved, multi-use trail constructed in a Hillsborough County preserve.

From the Lutz Lake Fern Road trailhead, the path extends 1.5 miles east and then north to connect with the Suncoast Trail. Additionally, it extends nearly 3 miles to the southwest along the crossing at Lutz Lake Fern Road, as well as nearly 3 miles to the southwest along the edge of Brooker Creek Preserve.

“I think one of the things (that stands out) is that it goes through the edge of a nature preserve, and I think that really makes it unique,” Turbiville said. “To have 4.5 miles of new trail, the majority of it going through a nature preserve, gives the user that different experience maybe from some other parts of the county that are more developed.”

Since it’s opening, the new section has been a hot spot for exercisers looking to distance themselves from the noise and commotion of city life.

Paula Mitchell and Ruddy Arzon, of Homeland, walk the trail 1.5 miles at least once a week since the new segment opened. The pair noted how well maintained the trail is.
Paula Mitchell and Ruddy Arzon, of Homeland, walk the trail 1.5 miles at least once a week since the new segment opened. The pair noted how well maintained the trail is.

“Oh, I love it. It’s great,” said 41-year-old walker Jeff Hebrank of Odessa. “You’re walking out in the woods, away from the traffic. It’s nice and quiet. It’s beautiful with natural surroundings.”

Polk County resident Paula Mitchell, 64, said the trail’s new section is “a wonderful place to walk.”

“The trail has more nature than the part heading up along the Suncoast Parkway, which is not as picturesque because you’re along the highway,” said Mitchell, who spends her weekends in Lutz. “The (new trail) has a lot shade and foot trails where you can get off the paved area and go hiking through the woods.”

Seventy-year-old Bob Zook, a seasonal resident from Columbus, Ohio, was especially impressed with the trail’s mix of “beauty” and “scenery.”

“It’s a combination of what I’d call ‘Old Florida’ and some of the newer, more modern parts of Florida,” said Zook, who leads a senior citizens biking group in New Port Richey. “It goes all the way out to the Suncoast Trail, so you have the combination of going along a busy highway versus being out in the middle of basically nowhere. Quite often, that’s what bikers like—a variety of scenery.”

Zook remarked that it is one of “prettier trails” he’s ridden on over the years.

“It’s obvious (Hillsborough County) spent an awful lot of money on it,” he added.

Bicyclists can stop the traffic by using a crosswalk signal, where the trail crosses busy roadways.
Bicyclists can stop the traffic by using a crosswalk signal, where the trail crosses busy roadways.

Lutz resident Mike Lopez, 51, who typically rides his bike about 10 miles per week on the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, commended Hillsborough County officials for doing a “great job” with the new section.

“At first I thought: ‘What are they doing? Why are they putting this trail in?’  “But, after I rode it, the first thing I thought was, ‘Oh, it’s so nice. Finally, my taxpayer dollars are being used for something I like,’ ” Lopez said.

Lopez enjoys the convenience of a signalized crossing at Lutz Lake Fern Road, where he can ride his bike directly from his home to the trailhead, without having to worry about using a car and having to pay a $2 parking fee.

“It’s very relaxing to get away from a hard day’s work,” he said. “Just one subdivision over and the next thing you know, you’re in the woods.”

The signalized crossing is not only convenient for nearby residents, but it makes getting to the trail via bicycle much safer, especially when accompanied with children.

Nature is the main feature along the Upper Tampa Bay Trail’s new section.
Nature is the main feature along the Upper Tampa Bay Trail’s new section.

“I hated crossing over (State Road) 54 because of my kids, so I wouldn’t always take them,” said 47-year-old Corinne Wolthuis, of Lutz. “But, now it’s nice because we can really ride in that trail, and if they want to stop and walk, they can. It’s nice, because we can ride from our neighborhood on the sidewalk, and then when we get to the trail, we just have that one little path that we have to cross over where they put a stoplight.”

Wolthuis was impressed by the added amenities at the new Lutz Lake Fern Road trailhead, which features a rest area, water stations and several picnic tables and benches to utilize after a long walk or bike ride.

Before the new trailhead facilities opened, Wolthuis said she would have to leave the trail entirely, so her 6-year-old boy and 8-year-old girl could use a restroom at a nearby fast-food restaurant or department store.

The only issue Wolthuis has come across is the trail can be difficult to navigate when there are large crowds of people walking in groups with their pets.

One time, she almost got into a wreck, because a dog was in her pathway as she was biking along the trail.

Those utilizing the new 4.35-mile segment of the Upper Tampa Bay Trail can stop at the trailhead at 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road. It features 50 parking spaces, restrooms, a picnic area and large maps of the trail.
Those utilizing the new 4.35-mile segment of the Upper Tampa Bay Trail can stop at the trailhead at 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road. It features 50 parking spaces, restrooms, a picnic area and large maps of the trail.

“I was coming around a corner pretty quick, and the dog was on the leash but kind of extended out, and if the owner didn’t pull him back quick enough, it would have been a disaster,” Wolthuis said. “I’m not saying we should exclude the dogs, but that would be the only thing, especially when it’s very, very congested like that, and you’ve got bikes, people rollerblading and then you mix dogs in there on a long leash; you can forget it.

“I don’t know really how to fix that. You just have to kind of be aware of your surroundings,” she said.

When less congested, the 12-foot asphalt path has proven to be wide enough for more avid cyclists like 53-year-old Jim Griffin, of Odessa, to safely make wide turns at high rates of speed.

“They’ve cleared the vegetation off so you can see ahead of you as you’re making these large sweeping turns,” said Griffin, who uses a 22-speed racing bike to ride 100 miles per week. “It’s very important because…I’m riding a racing bike with skinny tires and 120 pounds of pressure in them. …We’re running 20 miles per hour average.

“They’ve got it set to where you come on a turn, you can see clearly ahead,” said Griffin, a member of the West Coast Florida Cycling Club in Tampa.

The new section’s grand opening was scheduled in August, but delayed until December because of flooding.

“If I have a complaint with it, it’s during rainy season,” Griffin said. “It was in the water; spots where water was covering it, so they postponed the grand opening. They did some remediation, and it looks like they got into some ducts and trenches and pits to keep the water from crossing the trail.”

With the trail free of flooding, and open every day from dawn to dusk, Griffin has found it to be a “beautiful” location to train with his 55-member cycling group,

“We use it a lot. A lot,” he stated.

New additions to the Upper Tampa Bay Trail
What: A 4.35-mile multi-use trail that marks the completion of the northernmost portion of the Upper Tampa Bay Trail, making it the first paved trail in a Hillsborough County preserve.
Where: 7020 Lutz Lake Fern Road
When: Open every day from dawn to dusk
How much: $2 daily car parking fee
For more information, visit HillsboroughCounty.org/UTBTrail.

Published January 13, 2016 

New charter school to open in Lutz

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If all goes smoothly, Sunlake Academy of Math and Science will open for the 2016-2017 school year.

The eight-acre site for the school is on North Dale Mabry Highway, about a half-mile north of Exciting Idlewild Boulevard.

Construction for the 40,000-square-foot, two-story charter will break ground sometime within the next month, and is expected to be completed over the summer.

The charter, which will be tax-funded and tuition-free, is expected to pull students from within a 5-mile radius of the school’s location.

Sunlake Academy will look similar to Valrico Lake Advantage Academy. (Courtesy of Charter School Properties)
Sunlake Academy will look similar to Valrico Lake Advantage Academy.
(Courtesy of Charter School Properties)

Developed by Charter School Properties (CSP), Sunlake Academy will be large enough to eventually accommodate up to 1,150 students, from kindergarten through eighth grade. It will have a focus on STEM curriculum, which stands for science, technology, engineering and math. It also will offer an interdisciplinary approach to learning, in which lessons will emphasize the interrelationships between various subjects.

The school’s features will include a library and media center, science laboratories, computer labs, art rooms and an area for outdoor activities.

In creating the school, Charter School Properties, which also developed Valrico Lake Advantage Academy, is working closely with Charter School Associates, the school’s Education Management Organization.

“We’re pleased to be bringing the local community new educational opportunities with this state-of-the-art building and a proven, high-tech STEM curriculum,” Joseph Rauenhorst, president of Charter School Properties, said in a release. “Partnering with Charter School Associates and other leading charter school operators, we focus on creating stimulating, nurturing environments that maximize each child’s achievement and develop the skills needed to succeed today.”

The company and its site engineer, Chris McNeal, are currently working through the site permitting process with several Hillsborough County agencies and the Florida Department of Transportation.

“We hope to have it wrapped up soon to start with building,” said McNeal, founder of McNeal Engineering, Inc. “Since it’s properly zoned already for the use, there’s no public hearings or anything like that. It’s straight to construction.”

According to Cindy Hughes, Charter School Properties’ director of operations, the local school district approved the charter in November. Since then, getting the charter up and running has been an ongoing process.

“There’s two moving parts,” Hughes said. There’s the construction of the building by the developer who also has to get all approvals running, then the school is required to get all their FEA (Florida Education Association) things handled, hire teachers and do their end of it. Then it all comes together.”

Sunlake Academy was originally proposed to be located on an 8.4-acre piece of land at the southwest corner of Lutz Lake Fern Road and Sunlake Boulevard. However, the piece of property has not yet been sold to the developer.

Hughes said the property is “still an option” for building a charter school in the future.

“We’re still in negotiations, so nothing’s for sure yet,” Hughes said.

Hughes added that if a charter were built there, it would most likely have a different managing operator than CSA, which will run Sunlake Academy.

Last year, several Lutz residents voiced their concerns about building a school at the Sunlake and Lutz Lake Fern Road location. They cited traffic congestion, interference of wetlands and natural habitats, and possible flooding as potential issues that could arise if a school was established there.

“It’s an inappropriate project in scope and size for that proposed location,” said Mike White, founder and president of the Lutz Citizens Coalition.  “That’s the type of thing that brings local neighborhoods to their knees. The new location is off of Dale Mabry Highway, so it’s not as impactful to the local area as it would have been.”

White said the citizen’s group is closely monitoring the project at North Dale Mabry Highway, but currently has “no issue” with it and has not been asked to intervene by members of the Lutz community.

“The main thing that we’re looking at right now is access to that project,” White said. “Right now, it’s designed for Dale Mabry primarily, and that’s fine. That’s really what Dale Mabry was built to do. However, if they change it to where they’re coming out on Van Dyke Road or rural two-lane roads, which would dramatically impact our local neighborhood, then we would step in and get involved.

“It’s a large school, but if they were to keep access limited to Dale Mabry, then you know, Dale Mabry can handle it.”

Published January 13, 2016