The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Lutz

Mattamy Opens Second Townhome Community In Lutz

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There’s more good news from Mattamy Homes for families looking for affordable new construction in Lutz that offers excellent schools and one of the best locations in Tampa Bay.

Avea Pointe is a new townhome community located off Van Dyke Road on Lakeshore Drive. It is directly across from Lakeshore Preserve — Mattamy Homes’ very successful townhome community of 102 homes, which is closing out sales after opening in the fall of 2017. Only one home remains — a 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath well-appointed Ormond model home.

“The demand for our townhomes in Lakeshore Preserve was so incredible that we are very happy to be offering families more townhomes with the same great location,” said Kathleen Dec, marketing manager for Mattamy Homes.

Avea Pointe will begin sales to the public on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 10 a.m., with the first residents expected to move into their new home in late spring. The community will offer amenities that will be completed later this year, including a resort-style pool, cabana, sun deck and tot lot. At completion, Avea Pointe will have 224 homes.

The gated community will offer three spacious floor plans designed very much like single-family homes, incorporating large open kitchens, optimized living spaces and 2-car garages.

Avea Pointe offers very distinctive plans— the Santa Rosa at 1,913 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with an owner’s suite on the first level; the Sebring is an interior unit with 2,230 square feet and 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths; and the Venice at 2,574 square feet with 4 bedrooms  (including a first-floor bedroom) and 3 baths.  All homes feature 2-car garages and covered lanais.

Base prices of these townhomes are anticipated to begin in the low $300s, and come in three attractive exteriors — West Indies, French Country and Craftsman.

“We offer some of the most spacious townhome floor plans in the market, and their unique designs meet the needs of first-time homebuyers, families with children, empty-nesters and retirees,” said Dec.

Avea Pointe’s home designs can be experienced by visiting model homes at Lakeshore Preserve (directly across Van Dyke Road) and other Mattamy communities in Citrus Park, Oldsmar and Riverview.

Mattamy’s Lutz communities are just minutes from St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, and are convenient to shopping, dining and entertainment in Carrollwood, Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel. Their close proximity to the Veterans Expressway is an easy commute to Tampa, the airport and area beaches.

“Our location is one of the main reasons our homes at Lakeshore Preserve sold so quickly,” said Dec.

Excellent schools are the other reason Mattamy’s Lutz townhomes are so much in demand. This location is zoned to some of Hillsborough County’s best schools — Steinbrenner High, Martinez Middle and Schwarzkopf Elementary. All are located less than 3 miles away at the public school complex on Lutz Lake Fern Road. In addition, charter school Sunlake Academy of Math is less than a mile away.

Lakeview at Citrus Park
It’s only been six months since Mattamy Homes opened Lakeview at Citrus Park — its gated townhome community off Ehrlich Road at the Veterans Expressway — and already 23 townhomes have been sold.

“This is one of the prettiest and most convenient locations in the north Tampa area,” said Dec. “Our homeowners love being less than 2 miles from Westfield Citrus Park Mall, and their easy access to downtown Tampa just 15 miles away.”

Mattamy Homes found a perfect location that overlooks Gant Lake at the end of Tom Fuller Road, which gives resident access to the lake for fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding from its community pier. Other amenities include a children’s playground.

Lakeview at Citrus Park has three model homes that will open in early February.  Upon completion, it will have 124 townhomes, ranging from 1,670 to 2,620 square feet, and offering 2 to 4 bedrooms, 2.5 to 4 baths, and 1- or 2-car garages.

Mattamy Homes is the largest privately owned homebuilder in North America, with a nearly 40-year history of operations across the United States and Canada. Every year, Mattamy helps 7,000 families realize their dream of home ownership. Visit MattamyHomes.com for more information, or call (813) 580-7303.

Published January 23, 2019

Local groups help federal workers

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Organizations around the region are stepping up to help, as workers and their families struggle during the nation’s longest partial federal government shutdown.

The help has come in various forms.

“The key is to take off some of the pressure from these folks (so they can) worry less about where their food is coming from,” explained Greg Giordano, assistant tax collector of Pasco County.

Adele Richoll packs paper bags with food at Father and Son Love Ministries on Jan. 18. Her organization is one of many that are providing help to federal workers who have been furloughed, or are working without pay, during the partial federal government shutdown. (Brian Fernandes)

The federal government partially shut down on Dec. 22, in the midst of a budget battle between President Donald Trump and members of congress, over funding for a border wall between the U.S. and Mexico.

Over the past weekend, Trump offered a deal that would include money for the border wall, while granting some immigrants protection for three years. But, Democrats were not moved by Trump’s offer.

The impasse affects about 800,000 federal employees, including some who are not working during the shutdown, and others who are working without pay.

The U.S. Coast Guard is one group of federal employees who are working without pay.

Pasco County Tax Collector Mike Fasano was inspired to specifically help those troops.

The five branches of the county’s tax office intends to distribute donations to the troops and their families.

“Mr. Fasano supports our men and women in uniform,” Giordano said. “He wanted to do something to show that this community is behind those individuals.”

On Day 1 of collections, Tom Kliebert was at the tax collector’s office to offer support.

“I’m always looking for things I can do to help out the military,” the Vietnam veteran said. “I really appreciate what they do to protect our country.”

The Wesley Chapel resident went directly to the grocery store to purchase donations when he learned online about the tax collector’s effort.

Debby Palmer, also of Wesley Chapel, received the notification through email and also wanted to help.

“I feel like I’ve been very blessed in my life, so I try to contribute where I can,” she said.

She brought in four bags of groceries to her local tax office.

Tom Kliebert wasted no time buying and donating food to his local tax office in Wesley Chapel. His contribution is one of many that will go toward members of the U.S. Coast Guard and their families. (Courtesy of Greg Giordano)

he tax collector’s five branches began collecting donations on Jan. 16 and accumulated more than $2,300 in cash, 91 bags of groceries and more than a dozen gift cards within the first two days. (For addresses of branches, go to PascoTaxes.com).

“Obviously this has touched a nerve in the community,” Giordano said. He characterized the community’s generosity as being “incredible.”

Father and Son Love Ministries, at 24156 Foggy Ridge Parkway, in Lutz, also is offering a helping hand.

Pastor C.J. Johns heads the Lutz church, which has opened its doors to federal workers and their families every Friday.

Church staff and volunteers, from noon to 3 p.m. on Fridays, will give out bagged lunches, plus supplies of food for a week, for those requesting it.

The church also understands that some families won’t be able to afford to drive to the church, so it is willing to deliver food boxes to homes if they provide 48 hours’ notice, the pastor said.

Before the shutdown, the church was already operating a food drive and now has prepared for a larger turnout.

“We’re committed to helping our community,” Johns said. “It’s a need that has risen, and we’re going to do whatever we can to help ease the turmoil.”

Publix has supported the church’s efforts, Johns said, noting the grocery chain recently donated surplus items from the holidays.

Besides providing food, the church also offers free clothing and personal hygiene items.

It also understands that children need relief, too, so the church will make toys, birthday cakes and cupcakes available, the pastor said.

The church plans to keep the drive open 30 days after the government reopens to help workers get back on their feet.

Restored Hope, at 13703 17th St., in Dade City, also is committed to assisting federal workers for as long as necessary.

The nonprofit organization welcomes workers to stop by its center on Mondays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Federal employees are asked to bring identification or their last pay stub to verify their status.

The organization’s pantry room is filled with nonperishable items and clothing.

Many items were leftover donations given by Metropolitan Ministries over the holidays, said Doreen Kennard, bookkeeper of Restored Hope.

Knowing there was surplus in storage, she thought: “Perfect timing, we’ll offer it to the government employees.”

Kennard added that the organization will do what it can to help workers pay past due bills.

During the federal government shutdown, Pasco County Utilities also is working to help federal employees, who are also PCU customers, develop an action plan to ensure continuation of services.

Pasco County Utilities will waive late fees and provide extensions for utility bills due by any federal employee who is on furlough or is required to work without compensation, as long as supporting documentation is provided.

Customers in need of assistance should call (813) 235-6012 during regular business hours.

Other acts of kindness can be seen throughout the Tampa Bay Area.

Tampa Bay Salvage, at 37832 Meridian Ave., in Dade City, is accepting donations of food and personal hygiene items at its Dade City and Palm Harbor offices.

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is offering pet food to support furloughed workers who have pets. The donations are available on weekdays from noon to 7 p.m., and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Verification is required.

The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay is connecting federal employees of Tampa International Airport with community resources.

Feeding Tampa Bay also has set up a food bank for TSA workers, and TECO is offering payment extensions on electric bills.

The Florida Aquarium in Tampa will also offer a day of relaxation with one free admission to federal workers.

These organizations are providing help to federal workers who are either off the job, or not being paid during the partial federal government shutdown:

  • Pasco County Tax Collector Offices (Land O’ Lakes, Dade City, Wesley Chapel, Gulf Harbors, New Port Richey); Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Restored Hope, 13703 17th St., Dade City; Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call (352) 437-4815.
  • Father and Son Love Ministries, 24156 Foggy Ridge Parkway, Lutz; Fridays from noon to 3 p.m. Call (813) 846- 9993.
  • Tampa Bay Salvage, 37832 Meridian Ave., Dade City; Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call (352) 437-5231.
  • The Florida Aquarium is offering one free admission to federal workers with identification.
  • Pasco County Utilities will help customers that are federal employees who are not receiving pay, or are furloughed, to ensure continuation of services. Documentation is needed. Those needing assistance should call (813) 235-6012.

Published January 23, 2019

It’s not too late to protect yourself from the flu

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Ideally, the best time to get a flu shot is before flu season begins in October.

But, it’s still not too late to protect yourself before flu season hits its  peak, which is typically closer to February, said Dr. Melissa Wahba, an emergency room physician at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, in Lutz.

Some people believe that getting a flu shot can cause them to get the flu, but that’s a misconception, said Dr. Melissa Wahba, an emergency department physician at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, in Lutz. (Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

The most vulnerable populations are children under age 5, but especially under age 2; people over age 65; and, those with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes and pregnant women, Wahba said.

Protection is important, to avoid potentially tragic consequences of being infected by the virus, she said.

“Influenza can certainly be a deadly virus and even if it is not life-threatening to yourself, contracting it likely means you’re going to pass it on to someone else, and it could be someone who falls into one of those high-risk categories,” she said.

She continued: “So, making a choice of whether or not to be vaccinated is not really just reflective of impact on yourself. It will impact those around you.

“That’s especially true if you are taking care of any of the patients in those high-risk populations.”

Plus, she added: “Health care personnel, day care workers, people who are working in dialysis units — anyone who is working with those more vulnerable populations — they have an even greater responsibility to make sure that they’re being vaccinated.”

There’s a common misconception that someone can get the flu by getting a flu shot.

“That is not true,” the emergency department doctor said. “Patients can have side effects from the flu vaccine, but they’re extremely mild. Most commonly, they might have redness, soreness, tenderness or some swelling at the site of the injection. Fewer might actually get a low-grade fever, a headache, or feel a little bit achy.”

Dr. Melissa Wahba, an emergency department physician at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, in Lutz, said it’s not too late to benefit from getting a flu shot. The peak of the season generally begins around February.

It’s also important to know that it takes two weeks from the time you get the shot for it to take its full effect.

“This year’s vaccine includes protection against Influenza A H1NI, Influenza A H3N2, and Influenza B, and certainly, we are by far seeing the most cases of H1NI,” the doctor said.

“The vaccine is targeted directly against that particular subtype of Influenza  A. The vaccine itself seems to be right on par with what we’re seeing clinically,” Wahba said.

People sometimes say they have the flu, when they actually have a cold or a stomach virus, she said.

“Influenza is generally quite a bit worse than just a cold,” she said.

If you think you have the flu, it’s important to keep away from other people, she said.

In its early stages, a patient can go to urgent care, or use an App, to get medical attention.

When caught early enough, a doctor may be able to prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the effects.

There are times, though, when patients need to go to the emergency department, the doctor said.

Adults should receive emergency care when:

  • The patient is having difficulty breathing, or experiencing rapid, shallow breathing
  • The patient isn’t able to drink
  • The patient is experiencing chest pain, abdominal pain, or confusion

Babies and small children should receive emergency care when:

  • A child cannot drink fluids; a baby cannot drink his or her bottle
  • There’s a decrease in a child’s wet diapers
  • There’s a decrease in tear production when a child is crying

She advises that patients pay close attention to their symptoms.

“Sometimes in the course of influenza, patients will have an improvement in their symptoms, and then they will actually get worsening of symptoms with fever and increased cough. Those patients should definitely come to the hospital. They could be developing one of the complications that we see with influenza,” Wahba said.

Even when the flu is not life-threatening, it still disrupts daily life, so the doctor recommends getting a flu shot to reduce the risk of becoming ill.

“Truthfully, as long as the virus is circulating, there is benefit to being immunized,” Wahba said.

“People who read this and go out and get vaccinated right away, will be protected before we hit peak season.”

Flu Symptoms
Influenza (also known as flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and, at times, can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who are sick with flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:

  • Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (tiredness)

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

Reducing the impact
Antiviral treatment, prescribed by a doctor, works best when started soon after flu illness begins. When treatment is started within two days of becoming sick with flu symptoms, antiviral drugs can lessen fever and symptoms, and shorten the time you are sick. They also may reduce the risk of complications, such as ear infections in children, respiratory complications requiring antibiotics, and hospitalization in adults.

Source: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Help prevent the spread of flu

  • Get vaccinated
  • Wash your hands often, with soap and water (use an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap isn’t available)
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
  • If you get sick, stay home until you are fever-free for at least 24 hours (that is, your fever is gone for at least 24 hours without the assistance of a fever-reducing medication)

Source: The Florida Department of Health

Published January 23, 2019

Pace of Pasco’s road construction picking up in 2019

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It’s no secret that dealing with traffic congestion is a way of life for Pasco County residents.

Whether they’re commuting to work, taking the kids to school, going grocery shopping, heading to a doctor’s appointment or taking care of myriad daily needs, there’s good chance motorists will get stuck in traffic and have to wait for traffic lights to cycle at intersections.

Traffic is backed up, on the access road from Interstate 75, heading to State Road 56. (Fred Bellet)

Getting anywhere can be a hassle at peak traffic hours — regardless of the direction drivers are going.

The good news is that 2019 is likely to go down as a banner year with respect to the number of projects aimed at improving traffic flow.

Here’s a look at what is underway, planned for construction, or under study for possible improvements, based on presentations by Florida Department of Transportation officials, transportation department fact sheets and previous reporting by The Laker/Lutz News.

The Diverging Diamond
One massive project, set to get underway this month, is called the Diverging Diamond Interchange.

It aims to reduce congestion at the Interstate 75-State Road 56 interchange, through a reconfiguration of the intersection, in an area between County Road 54 and Cypress Ridge Boulevard.

Eastbound traffic on State Road 54 at the Interstate 75 underpass.

The new design is expected to improve traffic flow, thus reducing travel time for motorists.

The estimated construction cost is $33 million, and the project is expected to take three years to complete.

Extension of State Road 56
Another significant project involves the extension of State Road 56, beginning at Meadow Pointe Boulevard in Wesley Chapel and ending at U.S. 301 in Zephyrhills.

Work on this 6-mile extension began in 2017. It has an estimated construction cost of $59.1 million.

Initially expected to be completed in the fall, the road could open as early as this spring, David Gwynn, secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation District 7, said during the Discover Dade City symposium in November.

The project includes a four-lane road, with a 10-foot multi-use trail on the south side of the road and a 5-foot sidewalk on the north side. There will be 7-foot bicycle lanes on the shoulders, in each direction.

Northbound traffic on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41, stacks up and waits for the traffic light to turn green.

New signalized intersections also are being built on Morris Bridge Road, where the new State Road 56 crosses it, and on U.S. 301, where the new State Road 56 ties into it.

Also, the City of Zephyrhills requested a study to evaluate extending State Road 56 from U.S. 301 to State Road 39 with a connection to U.S. 98.

And, another study is looking into realigning U.S. 98, where U.S. 301 intersects with Clinton Avenue.

The Pasco Metropolitan Planning Organization also has requested a study to evaluate the potential for the realignment of U.S. 98 at the U.S. 301, in the area of Clinton Avenue (new State Road 52).

U.S. 41 and State Road 54
While the need for a solution to daily traffic jams at U.S. 41 and State Road 54 is widely known, it is not yet clear how the issue will be addressed. Here are alternatives that have been identified, according to a state transportation department document:

  • Elevated express lanes at major intersections; express lanes on the ground for the remainder; and bus services in express lanes.
  • Parallel flow intersection.
  • Elevated lanes at major intersections; bus or rail in separate lanes, combined with a continuous flow intersection.
  • No Build: Maintaining six lanes on the ground and current transit services.
Motorists heading north on Land O’ Lakes Boulevard, also known as U.S. 41, wait in the daily backup, just south of State Road 54.

State Road 52 improvements
Projects are in various stages along the State Road 52 corridor. Here’s a synopsis:

  • Suncoast Parkway to east of U.S. 41: This project will widen a 3.8-mile stretch from two lanes to six lanes, with a 12-foot multi-use trail to be built on the north side of State Road 52. The project also includes a 1-mile widening of U.S. 41, approaching the intersection with State Road 52. Construction is expected to begin in 2019.
  • East of U.S. 41 to County Road 581 (Bellamy Brothers Boulevard): Calls for widening the two-lane road to a four-lane divided road. The 8.5-mile improvement also includes a 12-foot multi-use trail on the north side of the road. The project is under design, but there is no construction funding at this time.
  • County Road 581 (Bellamy Brothers Boulevard) to Old Pasco Road: Widening the two-lane road to a four-lane road, with a median. The 1.5-mile project has an estimated cost of $13.4 million and is scheduled to be completed this spring.
  • State Road 52 widening and new alignment, from Uradco Place to west of Fort King Road.

Between Uradco Place and Bayou Branch Canal, the existing road will be widened to a four-lane divided highway.

East of Bayou Branch Canal, the new alignment will be a four-lane, divided State Road 52, built south of the existing State Road 52, tying into Clinton Avenue.

Heading east, past Bellamy Brothers Boulevard, barricades guide motorists through ongoing widening construction.

Clinton Avenue, between County Road 579 and Fort King Road, will be a widened to a four-lane divided road.

Clinton Avenue, between Pasadena Avenue and U.S. 301, will be designated County Road 52, after the construction of the new State Road 52 is complete.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2019.

 

Other projects
Interstate 75 interchange at Overpass Road
Pasco County is building a future interchange at I-75 and Pasco Road. The project is scheduled for letting in 2020.

U.S. 301/U.S. 98
Resurfacing/bike lanes

An eastbound school bus turns south on to Old Pasco Road, an area where road construction continues.

Project limits: Pond Avenue to north of Long Avenue/Pioneer Museum Road in Dade City

is in design. Construction is expected to begin in 2019.

Wesley Chapel Intermodal Center Study
This study, expected to be completed in late summer, will identify the needs and location of an intermodal center that will serve as a hub for local and regional transit. It includes the analysis of facility needs, location, cost, funding, connectivity and conceptual design.

Proposed U.S. 301 widening
Another project calls for widening U.S. 301, from a four-lane road to six lanes, from County Road 54/Eiland Boulevard to north of Kossik Road, in Zephyrhills. That construction is not yet funded.

Brian Fernandes contributed to this report.

Published January 9, 2019

Run Hillsborough coming to Lake Park

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Hillsborough County has introduced a new 5K cross-country running series — hoping to get more residents to check out its collection of conservation parks and nature preserves.

It’s called the Run Hillsborough 5K.

The new Run Hillsborough 5K racing series is coming to Lake Park in Lutz on Dec. 15. The 3.1-mile route will feature rough and uneven terrain, with loose sand and large roots, passing by multiple lakes, over cypress swamps and through pine flatwoods. (Courtesy of Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation)

Created by Hillsborough County Parks & Recreation, and Conservation & Environmental Lands Management, the program features races throughout the year at different parks located around the county, taking runners and walkers through an assortment of scenic trails and off-road terrains.

The program launched in October — with the first race at Wortham Park in Riverview.

The second 5K race is scheduled for Dec. 15 at 8 a.m., at Lake Park in Lutz.

Upwards of 250 participants are expected. Prizes will be awarded for the top three male and female finishers. All participants will receive a T-shirt and can claim a medallion at the end of the event.

The race promises to be unlike many local 5Ks, that are run on streets or hard, flat surfaces.

That’s because runners and walkers will have to traverse rough and uneven terrain, with loose sand and large roots, passing by multiple lakes, over cypress swamps and through pine flatwoods.

The 3.1-mile route at Lake Park was mapped out by Chris Kiddy, program coordinator for the county’s Conservation & Environmental Lands Management Department, who also helps oversee the Run Hillsborough initiative.

Portions of the course take place on some new trail extensions that were added to the park within the past year, he said.

“It’s a really nice trail,” Kiddy said. “It takes you through some really nice wooded areas, takes you through a couple of lakes — just a really nice nature experience.”

Run Hillsborough 5Ks will be held quarterly, rotating the location each time. The county someday plans to put together a cumulative series with a grand prize for the top finisher of all the races.

“We really want to promote the running that you can have in our preserves. They’re excellent places to go and jog,” Kiddy said. “It’s just a great way to get people to come out and see all of our great parks, and kind of experience it in a different way.”

Besides offering fresh air and exercise in a nature setting, Kiddy also noted the Run Hillsborough program was developed to also introduce locals to the many features of the county’s parks and preserve properties.

The 589-acre Lake Park, for instance, offers more than just a series of trails and wildlife observation.

It, too, offers archery ranges, kayaking, horseback riding, BMX racing, a radio-controlled (RC) car track and primitive campgrounds, among other amenities.

Kiddy coined it as “one of the most unique parks in Hillsborough County.”

“If you’re not familiar with Lake Park, this is a great chance to get out and see what an amazing park this is. It’s got all kinds of different things,” Kiddy said.

Registration for the Run Hillsborough 5K at Lake Park costs $30 and will be open through the day of the event. Walkers and dogs are also welcome.

For information and to register, visit HCFLGov.net/RunHC.

Run Hillsborough 5K at Lake Park
What: Run Hillsborough 5K features races throughout the year at different parks located around the county. The races allow participants to compete against other racers on a journey through nature preserves, conservation parks, streams, trails, and a variety of terrains.
When: Dec. 15 at 8 a.m. (Packet pickup begins at 7 a.m.)
Where: Lake Park, 17302 Dale Mabry Highway, Lutz, FL 33548
Cost: $30 per participant
Info: Visit HCFLGov.net/RunHC

Published December 12, 2018

International business increasing in Pasco

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Pasco County has been making strides in the arena of international trade, and Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey provided a briefing on the topic at a recent North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce luncheon.

In introducing Starkey, Hope Allen, president/CEO of the North Tampa Chamber said: “Kathryn Starkey is a huge advocate of Pasco County.

This rendering shows the future campus for TouchPoint Medical Inc. (File)

“It’s wonderful that Pasco now has a seat at the table, now on the global level, and it’s because of her work and the work of Pasco Economic Development Council, making Pasco part of the conversation.

“She is involved in developing international trade, with a focus on Europe and South America,” Allen said.

Starkey has a pulse on what’s happening locally, and also nationally, on the international trade scene.

She is chair of the International Economic Development Task Force at the National Association of Counties (NACCO). She also was nominated by the White House and NACCO to serve on a committee that looks over trade agreements and makes recommendations. She is among four commissioners who represent the voice of local government, she said.

She’s still undergoing her FBI background check, so at this point, she can participate in calls, but can’t read the information.

Starkey said her introduction to manufacturing came in 2004, when she was on the Pasco County School Board and she made a visit to a training program offered in Okaloosa public schools.

“What they had done was they interviewed their business community, and then they figured out how to start programs in their school system that taught the high school kids how to enter into that workforce when they graduated,” she said.

Pasco County Commissioner Kathryn Starkey

Because of her interest, Starkey traveled to Germany five times — to see for herself and to show others how the Germans do their system of apprenticeship training.

“It was really important to go and see how the world’s premiere training program works.

“If you don’t see it, you can’t understand it. They have the gold standard in manufacturing,” she said.

“What we have done here in Pasco County, Hernando and Pinellas County, is that we’ve set up a training and manufacturing program based on the European model of apprenticeship training,” Starkey added, referring to a program called AmSkills.

“We take high school students and we take students who have graduated, and we take adults who need retraining, and we take them through the process here and we get them very knowledgeable about manufacturing, training and jobs, and then we help them get meaningful jobs here in the community,” she said.

Over time, Pasco County Schools also has established several career academies. It also opened Wendell Krinn Technical High School this year, on the former Ridgewood High campus.

Mettler Toledo opened its 270,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Northpointe Village, off State Road 54.

In partnership with Marchman Technical College, Wendell Krinn provides students access to 14 different technical education programs, including auto collision/repair, biomedical sciences, commercial art, computer systems, cosmetology, culinary arts, cybersecurity, digital cinema, electricity, HVAC, marine service, robotics, and welding.

Pasco’s workforce development is helping to attract international companies, Starkey said.

She also has been involved with Pasco EDC in trade missions to help local companies find foreign markets, and has helped host events to teach local companies how to grow their business in other parts of the world.

Pasco’s outreach efforts, its workforce development and its willingness to offer incentives to attract companies offering high-wage jobs has resulted in international companies setting up shop in the county.

Some of those companies include:

  • TouchPoint Medical Inc., a global supplier of technology-based health care delivery systems, will bring 116 new high-paying jobs to Pasco County. Company officials plan to relocate their headquarters to prime vacant land in Land O’ Lakes. They will build an approximately 125,000-square-foot facility, including a parking lot, on the northwest corner of Suncoast Parkway and State Road 54. The site is part of the South Branch Ranch property. The facility is expected to open in late 2019.
  • Mettler Toledo: Mettler Toledo opened its 270,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Northpointe Village in April. The Swiss-based company is a global supplier of precision scales and services used in research, and the packaging and production of food and pharmaceuticals.
  • TRU Simulation: TRU Simulation + Training celebrated the opening of a $30 million expansion of its Pilot Training Center in Lutz in February 2017. The facility opened in a 15,000-square-foot facility at 1827 Northpointe Parkway, off State Road 54 at Suncoast Parkway. TRU Simulation has contracts with companies such as King Air, Boeing and Cessna.

Starkey noted that it’s not enough to get international companies interested in Pasco, it’s also important to treat them well after they arrive, and to continue to form relationships.

Taking a page out of book she read about how the international community developed in North Carolina, Starkey makes it a point to take CEOs of international companies to visit assets around Tampa Bay.

It’s a great way for the CEOs to get to know each other and also for them to develop a deeper understanding of Tampa Bay’s strengths, Starkey said.

“I am trying to take really good care of your CEOs here, and they are spreading the word to their friends back overseas, or to their business friends, that Pasco County is a great place to do business,” Starkey said. “We want them to feel very welcome.”

Revised December 5, 2018

Thanksgiving: Savoring turkey and nostalgia

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It’s that time of year again.

Turkeys stock home freezers.

Plans are made to gather with friends and family — whether they live a few miles away, or across the country.

There’s the anticipation of a veritable feast of Thanksgiving football games, and the not-so-subtle signs that Christmas is just around the corner.

And, as this day set aside for gratitude approaches, millions of Americans may choose to observe decades’ old traditions, while others try something new and spontaneous.

For some, it will just be a regular Thursday.

We talked with residents in The Laker/Lutz News coverage area to see if they have special plans for Thanksgiving, and what the holiday means to them personally.

Carol Duren, a homemaker in Lutz, has a unique perspective on Thanksgiving. She thinks every day is a reason to celebrate. (Brian Fernandes)

For Carol Duren, a homemaker from Lutz, the spirit of Thanksgiving is not something attached to a specific day on a calendar.

“Every day is thankfulness to God,” Duren said.

As a native Californian, Duren recalls a time when it was easier for families to spend  Thanksgiving together.

It’s harder to achieve that unity today because loved ones are scattered and people work odd work hours, she said.

However, she said she’s looking forward to spending Thanksgiving with her children, who live out of state.

She also plans to dine on traditional favorites, including cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie and mashed potatoes.

Maryhelen Zopfi, also of Lutz, said Thanksgiving in her home is different from the Thanksgivings of her childhood.

Maryhelen and Simon Zopfi, married for 49 years, always look forward to spending Thanksgiving with their granddaughter.

“When I was growing up, everybody came and had dinners together,” Zopfi said. “Now, everybody seems to go out to restaurants to have dinners.”

She and her husband, Simon, have been married for 49 years. Sometimes, they host Thanksgiving dinner, while other times they travel out of town.

In Zopfi’s mind, Thanksgiving is similar to Veterans Day — because it’s intended to be a day set aside for gratitude.

She and her husband have shared the same holiday table for decades, but their choice of food is different.

“He likes the turkey and I’m vegan, so I’ll go for the vegetables,” Zopfi said.

Celebrating old traditions, making new ones
Land O’ Lakes resident Frances Laverghetta has a personal claim on the holiday.

“I was born on Thanksgiving, so it’s meaningful to me,” the Tampa native said.

She plans to spend the holiday with her son and his family, in Spring Hill. And, she said there’s zero chance that she’ll decline a chance to enjoy a nice slice of pumpkin pie.

Land O’ Lakes resident Anna Sykora, who originally hails from Ohio, has fond memories of old traditions — such as the sweet potato sauce, a special family dish that she still enjoys today.

Larry Peteet, a veteran, said his family lives in other states. He said he’ll take pleasure in spending this Thanksgiving with his British Labrador, Sandy Girl.

But she embraces creating new traditions, too.

Celebrating the holiday is more than just a ritual, Sykora emphasized. It aims to honor what really matters in life.

“I’m grateful for what I have – my family,” said Sykora, and, she added, she’s also thankful to be in good health.

Land O’ Lakes resident Larry Peteet, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, takes a certain patriotic pride in celebrating Thanksgiving.

Now an independent software consultant, Peteet said his outlook about Thanksgiving differs markedly from when he was young. Back then, he said, it was all about being out of school for the holiday.

“It was never about giving thanks,” Peteet said.

His attitude has shifted because he now appreciates the value of gratitude.

His enthusiasm for traditional Thanksgiving foods has not wavered a bit, however.

“Turkey and ham [are] phenomenal,” raved Peteet. “I love the creamed green bean casserole. Sweet potatoes are awesome with marshmallows.”

Living alone at Thanksgiving can be tough, Peteet added, noting his family lives in Alabama and South Carolina.

Still, he plans to make the best of the holiday by spending it with his British Labrador, Sandy Girl.

John Mathe, who is diabetic, sees Thanksgiving as an opportunity to treat himself to some of his favorite dishes.

Seventy-one-year-old John Mathe, of Dade City, is looking forward to the holiday festivities.

With grown children living in both Florida and Pennsylvania, it’s difficult to gather everyone together for the joyous occasion, he said.

“You always long for those old traditions – lots of people, long tables, lay down on the couch and you go to sleep,” he reminisced.

He also noted, with a chuckle, that he looks forward to having foods he knows he shouldn’t — because he’s diabetic.

Mathe said the holiday should prompt consideration of those who are less fortunate.

“They need to be thought about,” Mathe said, and they need to know that people care about them.

Kristine Johnson, a Dade City resident, said her family celebrates when they can get the family together — usually a day or two before Thanksgiving because her daughter works in retail.

Though not celebrating on the specific holiday, the family does have a tradition: They enjoy wildlife and go camping, she said.

Also, in her opinion, when it comes to turkey stuffing, there’s only one way to serve it properly: With the dressing in the bird, not on the side.

Zephyrhills resident Betty Harris has lived in Florida for 45 years, by way of Tennessee.

She adopted her daughter 25 years ago, and said Thanksgiving reminds her of the precious nature of life.

Her Thanksgiving menu features many of the foods she enjoyed while growing up, including sweet potato casserole, green beans and mashed potatoes.

Carolyn Clark, a Zephyrhills bus driver, said it’s a priority for her to spend Thanksgiving with her family — back where she grew up in Texas.

When it comes to the menu, she said she won’t settle for anything less than ham, turkey and dressing.

Published November 21, 2018

Voters on both sides of the aisle say they want change

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Voters across Pasco and Hillsborough counties turned out in far greater numbers for the 2018 midterms than they did four years ago.

Websites kept by the local supervisor of elections show that 60.64 of Pasco County’s registered voters turned out, while Hillsborough’s turnout — at 61.48 percent — was even higher. Pasco’s turnout in the 2014 general election was 53.38 percent; Hillsborough’s was 49.3 percent.

We caught up with some voters who cast their ballots early, and other voters who got their “I Voted” stickers s on Election Day, Nov. 6 — to hear what they had to say about this year’s election.

By B.C. Manion

Published November 14, 2018

Photos below by Brian Fernandes

Keenly interested in races for governor, U.S. Senate
Forty-eight-year-old Robert Fabregas went to the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library to take advantage of early voting.

The Pasco County bus driver, who has no political party affiliation, said he was most interested in the races for Florida governor and for the U.S. Senate.

“I voted for (Ron) DeSantis for governor, and I voted for Rick Scott for senator,” said the Wesley Chapel man, who was accompanied by his daughter, Arianah, at the early polling place.

His opinion was mixed on four bond issues facing Pasco voters: He was against expanding libraries and the jail, but supported more fire stations and park improvements.

Voting early, on his day off
Forty-one-year-old Chris Eberhard, of Land O’ Lakes, took advantage of having a day off to cast his ballot for the midterms at the Land O’ Lakes Branch Library, one of numerous early voting places in Pasco County.

The Republican said he was most interested in the governor’s race, and despite his political affiliation, he said he voted for Democrat Andrew Gillum. “I approve of his policies regarding education,” Eberhard said.

 

 

 

Doing what he can to stop Trump
Wesley Chapel resident Col Belimy also took advantage of early voting to cast his ballot in the midterms.

The 57-year-old mortgage writer said he felt compelled to take part in the voting process, so he can “make sure I can eliminate ‘45’ (President Trump) from doing anymore tragedy to this country.”

In the governor’s race, he said he chose Andrew Gillum, noting “I liked his policy and procedures.”

 

 

Early voting is a good way to go
Forty-six-year-old Oscar Pena said he headed to the polls for early voting because he thinks its “quick and efficient” and a good way to avoid Election Day lines.

The Home Depot associate said he was particularly interested in the races for Florida governor and U.S. Senate.

Pena, who has no party affiliation, said he chose Ron DeSantis for governor and Rick Scott for the U.S. Senate.

He also said he favored Pasco County’s bond issues to expand libraries, fire stations and the jail.

 

She supports Republican philosophies
Fifty-five-year-old Stacy Hallman took advantage of early voting to cast her ballot.

The Republican, who works for Tampa Electric Company, said she’s not fond of every GOP candidate, but noted she tends to support their philosophies.

“I’m a person that believes in free enterprise, and low taxes and less government,” Hallman said.

She supported all four of Pasco County’s general obligation bond issues, which will raise money to expand fire/rescue services, improve parks and recreation, upgrade libraries and expand the county’s jail.

 

Photos below by B.C. Manion

Making sure she’s counted
Susan Wilde headed to Precinct 595 in Lutz, early on Election Day, to cast her ballot.

“I wanted to make sure my vote was counted,” said the pediatric nurse. “It’s our right to vote. That’s what brings about change.”

 

 

Wants a more inclusive government
Darrynn Vannasse, a medical assistant, said she was particularly interested in the race for governor.

“It’s going to make an impact. I supported Andrew Gillum. I think he would bring change to our state, which I think we really need, and make inclusiveness for everyone,” she said.

She also was interested in the proposed amendments to the state’s constitution, especially No. 4, which restores voting rights for convicted felons who have served their time.

“I voted yes for it,” she said.

She also supported ballot items calling for additional taxes to support transportation improvements and to pay for air-conditioning and other projects in Hillsborough’s public schools.

“I know everyone is usually against taxing, but it’s got to come from somewhere,” she said.

Wants to set a good example for students
Stacey Roller, a middle school media specialist at Buchanan Middle School, made it a point to cast her ballot on Election Day.

“I had a mail-in vote, but I decided I wanted to come in and vote the day of — so that my students at the school I’m at could see that I voted,” she said, referring to the “I Voted” sticker that voters receive.

She was particularly interested in the races for governor, U.S. Senate and the Hillsborough County School Board.

She had a personal reason to vote in the school board race.

“I supported Henry “Shake” Washington. He was actually my area supervisor when I was at Adams Middle School and Carrollwood Elementary School and teaching in the library there.

“So, I was excited to come out and support him,” she said.

She supported an additional sales tax to pay for air-conditioning and other school projects in Hillsborough’s public schools.

“Our air-conditioning in the media center did not work the first few weeks of school, and we had teachers who were in their classrooms. It was 86 degrees in their classrooms, so they were actually coming to the library to hold their classes in the library because it was so hot in their rooms.”

She thinks people will support the extra money for schools because the district has earmarked how it will be spent.

“They went through and said, ‘Here’s what’s going to happen at every single school,’ ” she said.

Roller also supported an additional tax for transportation improvements.

She previously worked near the University of South Florida and knows firsthand the frustration of being stuck in traffic.

“I would just sit in afternoon traffic around USF and the hospital area. You just knew it was a guaranteed 45 minutes of bumper-to-bumper traffic,” she said.
Voting is important, the school media specialist said.

“Your voice does matter. You can make a difference. No matter who you are voting, whether it’s Republican or Democrat, whatever the case is, you have to actually get out and vote.

“Even if your candidate that you were hoping for doesn’t win, at least you’ll know that you got out and you tried,” she said.

Trying to break the gridlock
Art Frotten, a retired chemical engineer, rode his bicycle to the Meadow Pointe IV Clubhouse in Wesley Chapel to cast his ballot. He said he was there “in hopes of stopping so much of the civil war that’s going on in Washington. It is all-out civil war. The only thing we’re not doing is shooting at each other.”

“I went Republican, even though I think Trump is an ass. He’s got some good ideas, and I’d like to see some of them come about.

“I went straight Republican to give Trump as much support as he can get, so as to swing some strength to one party rather than having such a deadlock in Washington and, also, of course in the state. Anything the state can do to help Washington start to move, the happier I’ll be. We’ve had deadlock for 30 years.”

Frotten also said he supported the four general obligation bond issues on Pasco County’s ballot.

“Pasco keeps expanding and needs money to do the expansion. More people means we all share the taxes more.”

He split his votes on the proposed amendments to Florida’s Constitution.

“I don’t see the felons’ need to be able to vote. I think they did the crime. That’s their problem,” he said. “Oil and gas drilling, I see no reason to disapprove oil and gas drilling,” said the retired chemical engineer.

Would like fewer attack ads
Giancarlo Rodriguez took the day off work, so he could vote. “I wanted to make a difference. We have to try to make things better somehow. This is the way we can actually do it,” he said.

He said he favored Pasco County’s general obligation bond issues.

“We need the infrastructure. Pasco County really doesn’t have as much infrastructure, parks-wise. Our libraries are pretty diminished. The fire department runs pretty thin, as well.

“That’s one of the reasons I came in to vote.”

He said he’d like to hear what politicians would do if they were elected, instead of hearing so many attack ads.

“The problem is, they focus their main ideas on attacking the other person. You don’t get to see what they want to do for the state, itself,” Rodriguez said.

He voted for an increased Homestead Exemption, but not just because it would give him a tax advantage. “If you can lower a little bit of the taxes, we can just pump it right back into the community itself,” said Rodriguez, who grew up in South America, Europe and Asia.

First-time voter
Arcadian Vera’s mom took a photo of him, standing outside Precinct 48, at the Meadow Pointe IV Clubhouse in Wesley Chapel.

Nineteen-year-old Arcadian Vera went to Precinct 48 to take part in his first election.

“I have to. Right now, our government is in a little bit of trouble — well, quite a bit of trouble, actually. I think there has to be a change. I felt that it was my responsibility, as a voter, to make the change.”

Voting is a civic duty
Vietnam veteran Harold Nelson said he makes it a point to take part in the political process.

“It’s very important to vote, being an American,” Nelson said. “I want to vote to put the right people in office.”

He voted a straight Democratic ticket. “I’ve been a Democrat all of my life.”

He also supported Pasco County’s general obligation bond issues, calling them “very important.”

 

 

Wants to help make history happen
Vincent Williams, who works with youths, said he headed to Precinct 6 at the Alice Hall Community Center in Zephyrhills to possibly be part of history.

“I voted for Andrew Gillum,” Williams said, referring to the candidate who had the potential to become Florida’s first black governor. “I understand his upbringing is similar to mine.”

Williams said he also supported Amendment No. 4 to the state’s Constitution, which restores a felon’s voting rights, after the felon has served his or her sentence.

“Once they serve their time, and they pay their debt, it should be clean slate,” Williams said.

Every vote counts
Accounting clerk Misty McClung said she votes on a regular basis.

“It matters,” McClung said. “They need every vote. It may be your one vote that changed the whole election.”

She was particularly interested in the race for Florida governor, casting her vote for Ron DeSantis.

“I’m Republican trying to support Trump. I think the economy is a lot better now, and I’m big on closing the borders,” she said.

She supported three of the four general obligation bond issues that were on the ballot — agreeing to higher taxes for parks, fire protection and libraries. She opposed the tax for the jail expansion.

“I did not vote to improve the jail system. I feel like you’ve committed a crime, why does it need to be so great,” she said.

Not a straight-ticket voter
Melissa Gordon, a full-time housewife and grandmother, said she came to cast her vote at the Alice Hall Community Center in Zephyrhills because she wants “to improve our government.”

She was interested, in particular, in some of the proposed amendments to the state’s Constitution.

She voted to restore a former felon’s right to vote, for instance. “If they’ve served their time, then they all means (they should be allowed to vote),” she said.

She also supported an amendment regarding Victims’ Rights.

She supported Republican Ron DeSantis for governor and Democrat Bill Nelson for the U.S. Senate.

“I’m fed up with Rick Scott,” Gordon said.

It’s important to be heard
Dietary supervisor DeNae Roberts said she believes it’s important to vote, “just to be heard.”

In the governor’s race, she voted for Andrew Gillum.

“He seems to care about the people a lot more, everybody, in general, not any particular race, or any particular gender. He’s very inclusive.”

She also supported Amendment 4: “I think if you did your time, and you’ve learned your lesson and you paid it back to society, why not be able to vote?”

Roberts said she supported three out of four of the county’s general obligation bond issues.

“I did not approve the one for jail, but I did approve everything else — the fire/rescue, the libraries, and parks and recreation.

“Unfortunately, if you’ve done something and you’re in jail, I don’t think our money should be spent on improving it,” Roberts said.

LOL Swampfest returns with carnival fun

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The fall Swampfest will celebrate its 10th annual event at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., from Nov. 1 through Nov. 4.

The Land O’ Lakes High School Athletic Booster Club is hosting the event, and invites the public to come and enjoy the festivities.

Swampfest, from Nov. 1 to Nov. 4, will have 24 carnival rides for all ages to choose from at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park. (File)

Twenty-four carnival rides will be set up on the premises by Arnold Amusements Inc.

A one-night armband for unlimited rides — for all ages — can be purchased online for $15, or at the fair for $25.

Pre-sale tickets can also be purchased at these Land O’ Lakes locations: Sanders Elementary School, 5126 School Road; Pine View Middle School, 5334 Parkway Blvd.; and, Sugar and Spice Day Care, 3508 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

They can also be picked up at Beef O’ Brady’s at Wilderness Lakes, 7040 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., and the Lutz Beef O’ Brady’s at 18835 State Road 54.

Food vendors will be selling refreshments, and JT Curtis, The Big Bong Theory, and the Suncoast Dance Academy will be among the groups offering entertainment.

“I like the idea of having a place where everybody in the community can go have a little festival,” said Doug Hutchison, founder of Swampfest. “We try to make it a family-type affair.”

Proceeds benefit the Land O’ Lakes High School Athletic Program.

Admission is free, however, there is a $5 parking fee. Only service pets are allowed on the premises.

For additional information, contact Doug Hutchinson at (813) 293-3684 or .

Swampfest
Where: Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.
When: Nov. 1, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.; Nov. 2, 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Nov. 3, noon to 11 p.m.; Nov. 4, noon to 6 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: Four nights of carnival rides, games and live performances on the field of Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park.
Info: Contact Doug Hutchinson at (813) 293-3684 or . To purchase armband tickets online, visit LOLSwampfest.com.

Published October 31, 2018

Quality Foods Gourmet Market

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Quality Foods Gourmet Market in Lutz is a deli, pizzeria, bakery and specialty foods grocer that also offers an extensive vegan and gluten-free menu.

Owner Christopher Houp takes great pride on the number of foods made in-house, such as his mojo-shredded pork for his Cuban sandwich, which he serves with house-made potato chips and his own signature pickles.

But, his showstopper is his NYC sandwich.

“Our NYC is three-quarters of a pound of meat piled high, half pastrami and half corned beef, both house-made,” said Houp. “It’s steamed just like it is in New York City, so it’s hot, on two slices of rye bread with a grain mustard, and that’s it.  You can add cheese if you want, but the bread soaks in the juices from the steamed meat, and the mustard gives it a little spice, and you get this nice big juicy sandwich.”

For most house-made items, you can ask for a sample and try it before you buy it. Quality Foods makes its own pesto, sauerkraut, beer cheese, chimichurri, fresh-baked pretzels, breads, desserts and cookies, as well as many different kinds of condiments and dressings.

Its vegan deli and pizza menu runs two full pages long and accommodates families with many different diets, from lactose-intolerant and gluten-free carnivores, to strict vegans.

“The vegan community is an underserved market,” Houp said, whose wife is vegan.  “People are very appreciative that they can have a vegan meal here.  Our vegan Cuban is all over social media, and we have regular customers from Orlando and Sarasota who drive here to load up on vegan groceries that they can’t get anywhere else.”

As a grocer, Quality Foods stocks items from other local businesses, especially farmer’s market vendors, including Mammoth Foods Hummus, Peach Pit Farms, Sassy Girls Salsa, Gulf Coast Sourdough Bread and Faedo Family Bakery Cuban bread.

It also stocks nearly 90 local craft beers from more than 20 local breweries, many which are available in mix-and-match six packs.  It carries a large collection of hand-selected wines, including fresh Italian wines on tap and bottled by request, just as you would see in Italy.

To hear Houp talk about good food is like listening to a poet praise the merits of Epicureanism.

“Food is a lot of things.  It is fun, it is familial.  All of life’s activities revolve around food.  You have a party.  There’s food.  You have a baby shower.  There’s food.  When there’s a funeral.  Food.  You have food when you’re born.  You have food when you die.  What do we build the holidays around?  Food.  There’s always food, because it’s comforting, so if food is central to life, then we may as well eat quality food, and that’s what you’ll get here,” Houp said.

Life is too short not to indulge your appetite today at Quality Foods on U.S. 41, just south of where it meets Nebraska Avenue. Besides running Quality Foods, the Houps also operate their own farmer’s market, Lake Chapman Market.

The market can be reached by calling (813) 373-5466.

By William Jacko

Published October 17, 2018