The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Lutz

Russian ballerina makes a stop in Lutz

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She’s graced stages in more than 30 countries, has danced many classic ballet roles and has offered private coaching and workshops.

But last week, Russian ballerina Zhanna Golubenko was in Lutz, posing for photos and autographing posters at Dance Gear, Etc., 1707 Dale Mabry Highway in Lutz.

Zoe Gallagher and Zhanna Golubenko pose for a photograph during Golubenko’s recent visit to Lutz. The Russian ballerina has been touring the Southeastern United States, to share her passion for ballet and to promote upcoming performances of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Courtesy of Lynn Gonzalez
Zoe Gallagher and Zhanna Golubenko pose for a photograph during Golubenko’s recent visit to Lutz. The Russian ballerina has been touring the Southeastern United States, to share her passion for ballet and to promote upcoming performances of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Courtesy of Lynn Gonzalez

Golubenko has been traveling in recent months to cities throughout the Southeastern United States, sharing her passion for ballet and helping to promote upcoming performances of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker.

That production will be performed in numerous cities, including St. Petersburg.

Besides letting people know about the upcoming show, she’s also putting the word out about audition opportunities, said Carolyn Jackson, owner of Dance Gear, Etc.

Jackson was pleased to host the ballerina’s visit.

“It was just a fabulous opportunity for the community. Everybody loves The Nutcracker,” Jackson said.

Golubenko, who was dressed in costume, said she began dancing when she was 6. That was two decades ago.

Being a ballerina requires a considerable amount of practice and can result in injuries, but for Golubenko, it’s a way of life.

“When you love it, you cannot live without it,” she said. “Even the injuries, they teach you something.”

The ballerina also noted: “Pain in your soul is much stronger than physical pain, so I prefer to have physical pain.”

Most of the people she’s met during her Southeastern tour have been interested in knowing why she became a ballet dancer, and about how to recover from an injury.

She said her parents introduced her to the theater when she was very young and by the time she was 6, she knew she wanted to become a ballet dancer.

As for injuries, she said it is best to try to avoid them. She advised warming up thoroughly before beginning any serious training.

“Most of the injuries we get, we get them on cold legs,” Golubenko said.

At the Lutz shop, there were girls and their moms who were eager to meet the Russian ballerina.

Twelve-year-old Zoe Gallagher was among those lining up to have her picture taken with Golubenko.

“I just really wanted to meet a prima ballerina,” said Gallagher, who herself aspires to become a professional ballerina.

Gallagher said dancing helps her to convey her emotions, and she enjoys stepping into the role of a character.

Dancing, she said, “allows me to transfer into somebody else for a just a little bit of time.”

Published October 28, 2015

Denham Oaks is celebrating 20 years

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The year was 1995.

Bill Clinton was in the White House.

Forrest Gump won Best Picture.

The San Francisco 49ers won the Super Bowl.

And, Denham Oaks Elementary School opened in Lutz.

The school, which will celebrate its 20th birthday on Oct. 30, has been the home of thousands of school children over the years — and has had six staff members since the beginning.

They stayed because they felt a sense of connection with the school, the staff and the students.

From left, Karen Anair, Kristen Eales, Shannon Presson, Mary Jane Kranendonk, Cathy Cohen and Susan Green have been on Denham Oaks Elementary School’s staff since it opened 20 years ago. The school plans a pep rally and birthday cake on Oct. 30 to celebrate. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
From left, Karen Anair, Kristen Eales, Shannon Presson, Mary Jane Kranendonk, Cathy Cohen and Susan Green have been on Denham Oaks Elementary School’s staff since it opened 20 years ago. The school plans a pep rally and birthday cake on Oct. 30 to celebrate.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

“It’s a sense of family. I am comfortable here,” said Kristen Eales, a first-grade teacher, who spent most of her time at the school teaching kindergarten.

“It feels like home to me,” added Susan Green, who is now the school’s bookkeeper.

“I definitely feel a sense of ownership. We put the desks together here. We saw the walls. We came in construction. You always just felt like it was your school,” said Shannon Presson, who teaches fourth grade.

Mary Jane Kranendonk, the school’s physical education teacher, marvels at the beauty of the school’s setting.

“It’s a nature’s paradise out there. We’ve had owls, hawks,” she said.

Cathy Cohen, the school’s custodian, lives in Carpenter’s Run. She enjoys living near enough she can walk or bicycle to school.

“I wouldn’t want to go anywhere else,” said Karen Anair, who teaches children who are deaf or hard of hearing.

All of those staff members, except Green, have had their children educated at Denham Oaks Elementary, at 1422 Oak Grove Blvd., in Lutz.

“Having my children go to school here, I always knew they were going to get phenomenal teachers,” Kranendonk said.

The elementary school began classes at its Lutz campus on Oct. 31, 1995.

Denham Oaks began the school year on double sessions with Lake Myrtle Elementary because of issues between the school and Mad Hatter Utilities.

The yearbook cover from Denham Oaks' first year, 1995. (Courtesy of Meagan Rathman)
The yearbook cover from Denham Oaks’ first year, 1995.
(Courtesy of Meagan Rathman)

The opening day at the new campus was particularly memorable for Cohen’s twin sons, who were 8 and were going into third grade.

“It was their birthday, Halloween,” she said.

The area around the school has changed enormously, the six women said.

State Road 54 was a two-lane road.

Oak Grove Boulevard didn’t exist.

And, there were no large commercial ventures anywhere nearby.

But, there were cow pastures and plenty of critters.

“The first year, the cows escaped, and they went across our whole campus. Cow poop everywhere!” Kranendonk said.

Snakes slithered into classrooms, and there was even a 5-foot alligator that got into a classroom.

“Not only did we stir up the wildlife with the school being built, but homes started being built,” Eales said.

Many other changes have occurred, as well.

In those early years, the majority of parents would pack their child’s lunch, Cohen recalled.

And Rosie Capehart, the lunchroom manager, was known for her tasty meals and for her bread, which not only tasted delicious, but also filled the campus with the aroma of freshly baked bread.

“I have great memories of Rosie’s lunches,” Kranendonk said.

Over the years, scores of happy memories have been made, the women said.

There have been field trips to Sea World and to the Ford/Edison Estates, and a Renaissance festival at the school.

There are also school traditions, including the annual Fall Festival and the Storybook Parade.

And, there have been changes, too.

The age of accountability has meant more structure and testing.

Technology has made impacts, too.

Now, the school can make automatic calls to parents, and can use Facebook, Twitter and its website to communicate what’s happening.

It was a lot different, when Green was working as a secretary in the school office.

“When there were notes going home, you’d have to make a 1,000 copies for these kids to take home,” she said.

Of course, many students have come and gone, and staff members have changed through the years, too.

When the school opened, Ruth (Biggs) Reilly was the principal.

And, she’s expected to attend the school’s celebration.

She’ll be among hundreds of students, staff members and invited guests for the festivities, which call for a pep rally, a birthday cake, a slide show and most likely, a rendition of “Happy Birthday.”

It promises to be a big day.

Published October 21, 2015

Serving up fried chicken, nostalgia

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They come to the Old Lutz School, on U.S. 41, bearing casserole dishes and memories to share.

These are men and women who have deep roots in Lutz and Land O’ Lakes.

Their families helped settle the area, and every year they come to celebrate the connections they feel to the community and each other.

The size of the annual gathering has diminished over time, as people have died or can no longer attend.

Jim Dennison slices up a platter of fresh veggies for the descendants’ day feast at the Old Lutz Schoolhouse. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)
Jim Dennison slices up a platter of fresh veggies for the descendants’ day feast at the Old Lutz Schoolhouse.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photos)

“We have some people who won’t be with us anymore, like Cliff Dennison, bless his heart. He used to do this with me. He’s in a nursing home now,” said Annie Fernandez, the event’s organizer.

“This year, I pretty much did it myself,” said Fernandez, who was born in her grandmother’s front bedroom, off the edge of an orange grove, in 1942.

The annual get-togethers with descendants of Lutz pioneers used to be organized by Elizabeth Riegler MacManus, a local historian, who co-authored with her daughter, Susan A. MacManus, an extensive history of the area called “Citrus, Sawmills, Critters and Crackers: Life in Early Lutz and Central Pasco County.”

Elizabeth MacManus organized the event for 20 years but, after that, Dennison and Fernandez took over the duties.

The group has met in three different locations over the years. First, they gathered at a church, then at the Lutz Community Center, and for the past few years, at the Old Lutz Schoolhouse.

“We have this event every year because everybody likes to get together and chit-chat about things that happened to them a long time ago,” said Fernandez, whose family ties to Lutz date back to around 1920.

It’s a true potluck, said Fernandez said, noting the menu is never known completely until the participants show up with their dish.

At this particular gathering, diners found plenty of options, including fried chicken, broccoli casserole, collard greens, lima beans, potato salad, Swedish meatballs, fresh veggies and other foods. They could wash it down with iced tea and lemonade, and top it off with a piece of cake or other desserts.

Sonya Salter was busy in the food room, arranging items as they came in. Fried chicken was in one spot, salads in another, desserts and so on.

She’s not from Lutz, but came to help both last year and this year because she’s Fernandez’s friend. She said she thinks its great that people get together to share their memories.

Bodde O’ Steen, who was at the gathering, too, said he’s lived in Lutz since 1937.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes. When I got here, there weren’t many people here,” he said, guessing there were about 300 people living in the general vicinity.

People cared about each other, O’ Steen said.

“If you needed help, everybody helped out everybody,” O’ Steen said.

Joe Strickland, Margie Strickland, Annie Fernandez and Bodde O’ Steen pose together at the annual gathering for the descendants of Lutz and Land O’ Lakes pioneers.
Joe Strickland, Margie Strickland, Annie Fernandez and Bodde O’ Steen pose together at the annual gathering for the descendants of Lutz and Land O’ Lakes pioneers.

The area has changed enormously over time, he added. “Everything was orange groves and truck farming.”

The Dennison name is widely known in Lutz, with some of the Dennisons spelling the name with two Ns in the middle, while others use just one.

Regardless of the spelling, the family has strong ties to the area.

The Dennisons came to Lutz shortly after the Coopers, who arrived in Lutz in 1832, said Jim Dennison, a family historian.

“Allen Scott Denison drove the stage coach from Fort Brook, which is Tampa to Fort King, which is now Ocala. That was the Concord-Apopka Stagecoach Company.

“They carried the U.S. Mail. And he lived off County Line Road,” he said.

Jim Dennison’s family lived near the intersection of State Road 54 and Livingston Road.

“Where the Raceway’s gas station canopy is — that’s where our house stood,” said Jim Dennison, who moved away from the area for 22 years but came back when his parents needed him.

He’s been attending the descendants’ gatherings since around 1982.

“My dad (Milford Dennison) used to like to come out, and I would bring him,” Jim Dennison said.

He keeps coming because he enjoys the event.

“This is my family — my family and childhood friends,” Jim Dennison said. “Old-timers like to get together and tell stories on one another.”

“A lot of people just like to come in and chat, and have a little refreshment. We have a good time,” Fernandez said.

Published October 14, 2015

Local groups benefit from Guv’na cash grab

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The candidates running for Lutz Guv’na spent months with their hands out.

The person who raised the most money was declared the winner of the ceremonial title, so they were all focused on filling their coffers throughout their campaigns.

Over the Fourth of July weekend, Jennifer Rankin was declared the winner and earned the Lutz Guv’na sash. But, the real winners were announced Oct. 1 at Learning Gate Community School, 16215 Hanna Road in Lutz.

After raising more than $18,000 over the course of the campaign, it was time to hand that money out to nearly 20 worthy organizations.

As candidates, KarenSue Molis, left, and Guv'na Jennifer Rankin helped raise more than $18,000 for area groups. (Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)
As candidates, KarenSue Molis, left, and Guv’na Jennifer Rankin helped raise more than $18,000 for area groups.
(Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)

The funds raised went to local groups, and last week’s event allowed each of them to pick up a check to help them with their goals.

For the Lutz Patriots and Support the Troops, that means more care packages going to soldiers overseas.

For the Old Lutz School, it means continuing improvements, which include remodeled bathrooms and a new, lighted flagpole.

And, for the Lutz/Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club, it means taking all of their money and helping out other local groups.

“We always give it away,” said Kay Taylor, president of the GFWC Lutz/Land O’ Lakes Woman’s Club. This year the club’s Guv’na money went to Boy Scout Troop 12 and the Old Lutz School. The club spends much of the year raising its own funds to help others.

Being part of the Lutz Guv’na race is special for the group and for Taylor, who was a previous candidate herself.

“It’s a feeling of community. It’s a wonderful thing. You’re just thankful to be part of it,” she said.

The club runs its own Guv’na candidate each year, and even though KarenSue Molis didn’t win the title, she was all smiles at the distribution ceremony and happy to have been involved in the fundraising process.

“It was really fun,” she said. “The camaraderie was great.”

A portion of her funds will go to groups such as the Lutz Branch Library, the Old Lutz School, and Canine Companions, which provides assistance dogs to people in need.

Attendees such as Bruce Hockensmith of the Lutz Patriots appreciate the funds they received.

“It’s been phenomenal, the support that we continue to get,” he said.

The Lutz Patriots works with Support the Troops, and the money will go toward postage costs to send the care packages across the globe, which can run around $55 each. It’s a lot of money, but Hockensmith said the feeling soldiers get when they see a package — and know they haven’t been forgotten — is worth every penny.

And, they remember where it came from, too.

“There are troops all around the globe that have heard the Lutz name,” he said.

For Rankin, winning the title meant handing out the money, shaking hands and taking photos with grateful recipients. It also meant, like all candidates, designating 10 percent of what she raised to the cause of her choice.

Rankin picked the Steinbrenner High School cheerleaders, noting her stepdaughter was a part of the group when she attended the school.

This was Rankin’s way of giving back to them, and helping them fund a trip to their national competition if they qualify.

The third candidate, Cheryl Lynn Ayres, wasn’t at the event, but it was announced that Boy Scout and Cub Scout Troop 212 would be the recipient of her designated funds.

Now that the money has been distributed, the reigning Guv’na will go about her ceremonial duties, which includes attending events, cutting ribbons and spreading Guv’na good cheer when she gets an invite from a local group.

And, Rankin hopes it will be a busy year.

“I am so excited. I hope that people ask me to come to stuff. I hope they invite me to be there to represent what we all worked hard to achieve by raising money,” she said.

Published October 7, 2015

Jewish community reflects, atones on Yom Kippur

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Congregation Mekor Shalom, 14005A N. Dale Mabry Highway, has grown to more than 100 households since it was founded a little more than two years ago.

Members come from Lutz, from Land O’ Lakes, from Wesley Chapel, from Zephyrhills, and many other parts of Tampa Bay.

And most of those households, if not all, will be stopping in on Wednesday, during the one time on the calendar where everyone comes together.

“I call it tax season for clergy,” said Hazzan Jodi Sered-Lever.

As Hazzan, she’s Mekor Shalom’s clergy who leads them in prayer. She’s also their founding spiritual leader.

Hazzan Jodi Sered-Lever prepares Zachary Marlow for his Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Mekor Shalom. Like all Jewish synagogues, the congregation is also preparing for Yom Kippur services Sept. 23. (Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)
Hazzan Jodi Sered-Lever prepares Zachary Marlow for his Bar Mitzvah at Congregation Mekor Shalom. Like all Jewish synagogues, the congregation is also preparing for Yom Kippur services Sept. 23.
(Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)

The occasion is Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement, which is Sept. 23 this year. Part of the High Holy Days, along with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, it’s considered by many to be the most significant date on the Jewish calendar.

While it’s a time for reflection and forgiveness, it’s definitely not a time for judging the congregation at Mekor Shalom.

Sered-Lever knows the seats will be filled more than during the weekly Sabbath services on Friday nights and Saturday mornings. Whether it’s a treasured family tradition or a sense of obligation to participate in the High Holidays, many members who don’t attend services regularly are looking for a seat at Yom Kippur.

And that’s fine for Sered-Lever. Whether someone attends every weekend, or hasn’t been there since the last Yom Kippur service, she wants everyone to feel welcomed and valued.

“I don’t use guilt in any of my religious practices. I meet people where they’re at,” she said. “I’m glad to see you when you’re here. I’m glad to have your involvement; I’m glad to have your gifts. Because each person’s gifts are appreciated, and they’re not just monetary, and they’re not just numbers showing up.”

Those who do attend will arrive in a different state than usual. Yom Kippur observers fast from the previous sundown until that day’s sundown (with medical exceptions), refrain from working or wearing leather shoes, do not bathe and do not anoint themselves in perfume or cologne. They forego many daily comforts and rituals in order to focus more on asking for forgiveness, not only to God, but to other people their actions may have affected over the past year. Much of the day is spent in prayer and reflection.

And they’ll not only pray, but hear the Hazzan speak on a special topic. She didn’t reveal this year’s subject, but previously she’s focused on the concept of a proper apology. Instead of a half-hearted “I’m sorry you feel that way” statement, she encouraged her congregation to take ownership in their apologies, and to deliver them with authenticity.

Whether they come to pray on Yom Kippur out of a sense of tradition once a year, or always attend weekly services, Sered-Lever wants every member to get the most out of the experience. She believes that true reflection on actions and behaviors, and an earnest desire to improve oneself, can have great benefits for an individual even after Yom Kippur ends.

“You get out of it what you put into it,” Sered-Lever said. “If you take this time and really use it for this purpose, you have the greatest chance of being able to evolve as a person, and develop your relationships and connections, and be the best person you can be.”

While it might be the one time of year that every seat is filled (during some busy times, events might also be held at the nearby Carrollwood Country Club), Sered-Lever doesn’t approach her job differently because there might be more of the congregation listening. She’s still grateful for the attendees, appreciates their participation, and strives to give them a welcoming experience from the moment they walk in the door.

Her schedule doesn’t change much, either. In the days leading up to Yom Kippur, the Hazzan spent time instructing Zachary Marlow, 13, as he prepared for his Bar Mitzvah, the ceremony that celebrates a Jewish boy taking on the religious obligations and observances of a man. A Jewish girl taking part in the same ceremony is known as a Bat Mitzvah.

Zachary’s mother, Susan, serves on the congregation’s board of trustees. She believes that even in Jewish households where they don’t attend regular services, the need to connect with the community during the High Holidays is strong.

“Even if you weren’t in a religious household, you always went on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. You always do. That’s just what Jews do, for the most part. It’s a very cultural thing. It’s a way of life for us, and we take that into adulthood,” she said.

Both adults and children attend Mekor Shalom, ranging in ages from infants to those in their 90s. And whatever their reasons for attending Yom Kippur or any other service, Sered-Lever will keep working to make it a positive experience each time they step into the synagogue.

“It’s all about creating a safe and nurturing environment for people to be. This is a sanctuary,” she said. “It’s a safe community and people should feel comfortable, and people should feel that there is a message with which they can connect.”

The Yom Kippur service will begin at 9 a.m. The final service will begin at 6 p.m. For information, call (813) 963-1818 or visit MekorShalom.org.

Chabad at Wiregrass, 2124 Ashley Oaks Circle in Wesley Chapel, will also have Yom Kippur services. They begin with a morning service at 10 a.m., with the final service beginning at 6 p.m. For information, call (813) 642-3244 or visit ChabadAtWiregrass.com.

Published September 23, 2015

Cheval Cares 5K battles pediatric cancer

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When the Peck family joined the Cheval Athletic Club, their daughter Callie was 2.

They took an immediate interest in the community’s Cheval Cares 5K event to benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

It wasn’t just a good cause. It was personal.

Callie Peck survived leukemia, and her entire family participates in Cheval's annual 5K to benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. (Courtesy of Vividivity)
Callie Peck survived leukemia, and her entire family participates in Cheval’s annual 5K to benefit the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.
(Photos courtesy of Vividivity)

“When we joined there a few years back, (Callie) was bald. It was no surprise to anybody that she had cancer,” recalled Callie’s mother, Amber Peck.

Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, Callie had to endure frequent trips to hospitals, spinal taps and surgeries. For lengthy periods, she endured chemotherapy treatments daily.

Just a toddler, she received treatment for more than two years. And despite the challenges, the Pecks consider themselves fortunate.

“We were actually very lucky in the fact that the cure rate for her type of leukemia was greater than 90 percent,” Peck explained. “Seeing the other children in the hospital, their diagnoses were a lot more devastating. We had everything quickly put in perspective for us. All of a sudden, we felt fortunate.”

Callie is now well past her treatments. Her chemotherapy ended last April, and she now just has monthly blood tests to check for recurrences or side effects. But her family is still active in the community’s 5K event. The Fourth Annual Cheval Cares 5K will be on Sept. 26 at 8 a.m., at the Cheval Athletic Club, 4142 Cheval Blvd., in Lutz.

Callie, now 6, will be part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony to begin the race, while her brothers, Gavin and Cole, and her parents, Amber and Scott, participate in the 5K.

Lindsay Whitney helped create the 5K and used to work at the Pediatric Cancer Foundation. The Cheval resident still serves as event director for the event, which raised around $25,000 last year. Her time at the foundation put her in close touch with families going through the emotional challenges of childhood cancer.

“It’s been a big passion of mine, knowing the families that have been affected and being part of their lives,” Whitney said. “I’ve been on many hospital visits and funerals, but also end-of-chemotherapy parties, graduation parties and birthday parties.”

For the Peck family-- Amber, Scott, Gavin, Cole and Callie -- the 5K is an annual tradition.
For the Peck family– Amber, Scott, Gavin, Cole and Callie — the 5K is an annual tradition.

She hopes the money raised for the Pediatric Cancer Foundation’s research will lead to more of the happier occasions. The foundation focuses on research, fast-tracking treatments and launching clinical trials in the hopes of developing effective options quickly.

Speeding up the process of finding effective treatments helps with more than just the obvious health concerns. Families dealing with childhood cancer face other stresses and challenges the public might not consider, Whitney said.

So much time is spent on appointments and treatments that parents sometimes have to quit their jobs to manage care properly. That adds financial and emotional strain to an already difficult process.

The race itself has a cap of 450 runners due to the logistics of having the event at Cheval.

So, they’ve come up with some new ways to raise money. On Sept. 23, an Italian buffet dinner will be served at the Cheval Golf and Country Club, 4312 Cheval Blvd., from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. The cost is $16.99 for adults, with $5 of that amount going to Cheval Cares.

The event has set a goal of nearly $30,000 for this year, Whitney said. And, she hopes they’ll reach both their runner cap and fundraising goal, because childhood cancer is something that thousands of families face each year.

According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization, nearly 16,000 people between the ages of birth and 19 years old are diagnosed with cancer in the United States each year. One in every 285 people will be diagnosed with cancer before age 20.

And cancer isn’t picky about who it attacks, Whitney said.

“That’s the thing that we always say: Cancer knows no bounds in terms of money, ethnicity, race, gender, whatever it is. It doesn’t seem to matter,” she said.

The annual 5K race matters to many people in Cheval and in the surrounding areas, including the Pecks. While Callie participates every year, Amber would love to see her join the rest of the family and actually take part in the 5K at a future event.

“The day that she’s actually running will be very meaningful for us,” she said.

The cost for the race is $30 for adults, and $20 for children 12 and younger. Each participant receives a T-shirt and goodie bag.

Registration for the race is available on the website through Sept. 24. After that, those not living in Cheval can register in person at the Cheval Athletic Club on Sept. 25 from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. On the day of the race, registration is only open to Cheval residents, but donations can still be made on the website.

The 5K event also will include an activity area for children, with a bounce house, face painting and balloon animals.

For more information, visit ChevalCares5K.com, or email .

Published September 23, 2015

Record-setting start for Steinbrenner football

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The Steinbrenner High School coaching staff knew its team was special when it defeated Riverview High School by a 38-17 margin on Sept. 18. That gave the Warriors a 4-0 start for the first time in school history, and eclipsed the team’s win total from last year’s entire season, when it won just three games.

Steinbrenner head coach Andres Perez-Reinaldo talks with linebacker Tyler Mirabella at practice. The defense has helped lead the Warriors to a 4-0 record. (MIchael Murillo/Staff Photo)
Steinbrenner head coach Andres Perez-Reinaldo talks with linebacker Tyler Mirabella at practice. The defense has helped lead the Warriors to a 4-0 record.
(MIchael Murillo/Staff Photo)

But coaches also knew the team was special when it defeated Chamberlain on Sept. 11 to go 3-0.

And, the week before, when the team defeated Blake High School to go 2-0.

The team had never done those things before, either.

In fact, it became the first varsity team at the school to even start 1-0 with an opening win against Gaither High School. (The team’s first victory in its inaugural season in 2009 counted as a junior varsity victory).

Head coach Andres Perez-Reinaldo had an inkling about their potential a lot earlier than the start of the regular season. In fact, the realization dawned on him late last year.

“I had a good feeling last December,” he recalled. “We were planning on starting our off-season conditioning in January. I had a group of these seniors come up to me and say ‘Hey coach, we want to start now, in December.’ When those kids do that and take that kind of initiative, that lets you know you have a special thing going on.”

If the team has been special, its defense has been spectacular. The defense gave up 17 to Riverview and allowed 10 points to Chamberlain, but previous outings were even better. Neither Blake (31-0) nor Gaither (13-0) put up any points against the Warriors.

The coach admits that a stifling defense is a big key to the team’s success and keeping opponents frustrated.

“Our defense right now is the heart and soul of the team,” he said. “If they (opponents) can’t score, they can’t win.”

It’s a philosophy that resonates with the players, and gets repeated frequently.

“As the defense we knew that we were going to really be the glue of the team. If they don’t score, they’re not going to win,” said middle linebacker Patrick Lukert in a separate interview.

The 6-foot-2-inch, 210-pound senior has helped the team off to its impressive start, but he’s not surprised. He expected to see scoreboard success after watching the players come together and focus before the games started. He just thought it would happen with a different quarterback.

Expected starter Cason Byrd suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the Preseason Classic, meaning backup Colin Wray had to step in with little notice and perform.

He’s led the team to an undefeated record, the most wins in one season since 2012 and an opportunity to think about the school’s first-ever playoff berth.

Again, Lukert said he isn’t surprised.

“We have confidence in Colin. Colin’s been practicing just like Cason has. Since last December he’s been working out. We knew he was going to be all right,” he said.

The coach credits the entire offense for helping pick up the slack with a new quarterback behind center.

“Those guys, that wide receiver corps and offensive line and running backs have just rallied around our quarterback position, making him the best that he can (be). And that support has been huge for him,” Perez-Reinaldo said.

A strong start has created a lot of optimism and excitement, and the coach said it’s a product of athletes taking classwork seriously and buying into the program. It’s a lot of hard work, but after coaching for about 10 years (this is his fourth season at Steinbrenner), Perez-Reinaldo said it’s still fun.

“Friday nights. There’s nothing like it,” he said.

Steinbrenner Warriors 2015 remaining schedule
Sept. 25 at Riverview, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 2 vs. Manatee, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 9 at Newsome, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 16 vs. Palm Harbor University, 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 23 at Alonso, 7:30 p.m.
Nov. 6 at Berkeley Prep, 7 p.m.

Published September 23, 2015

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North expands heart care services

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When heart attacks happen, minutes matter.

And now, residents of Lutz, Land O’ Lakes and other nearby communities, including Keystone, Odessa, Northdale, New Tampa and Wesley Chapel, have a new option for treatment of a STEMI — which stands for ST elevated myocardial infarction.

That condition is one of the most deadly types of heart attacks and, as of Aug. 25, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North can treat patients suffering from a STEMI.

A STEMI occurs when there is prolonged blockage of blood supply to the heart. The optimal treatment method is PCI (percutaneous coronary intervention) to open the artery within 90 minutes of first receiving care by emergency medical personnel.

When someone arrives at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North with a STEMI (ST elevated myocardial infarction), this team of specialists springs into action to provide treatment. (Courtesy of St. Joseph's Hospital-North)
When someone arrives at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North with a STEMI (ST elevated myocardial infarction), this team of specialists springs into action to provide treatment.
(Courtesy of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North)

Since time translates into muscle loss, patients suffering a STEMI are taken to the closest hospital that can treat patients suffering from this type of heart attack, said Kathy Myers, director of operations for St. Joseph’s Hospital-North.

In the past, patients who brought themselves to St. Joseph’s North had to be taken by helicopter to St. Joseph’s main campus in Tampa for the treatment, Myers said.

Ambulance drivers who responded to emergencies would bypass St. Joseph’s North to take patients to the closest facility licensed to treat STEMI patients, Myers added.

Now, St. Joseph’s North has a team on hand, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to treat these patients.

Adding the service is a true milestone in the hospital’s five-year history, Myers said.

Treating STEMI patients at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North means faster care for patients in a situation where minutes matter, Myers said.

“When you have a STEMI, that lack of blood flow to the heart causes muscle loss,” Myers said. “Time is heart muscle. So, getting to the closest facility, and getting that intervention as quick as possible, saves heart muscle.”

Kathy Myers, director of operations for St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, said adding a service to treat STEMI (ST elevated myocardial infarction) is a milestone in the hospital’s five-year history. (B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)
Kathy Myers, director of operations for St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, said adding a service to treat STEMI (ST elevated myocardial infarction) is a milestone in the hospital’s five-year history.
(B.C. Manion/Staff Photo)

The St. Joseph’s Hospital-North STEMI team has been specially trained. There are 11 team members in the Cath lab and numerous other departments that interact with them.

All team members who work in the Cath lab need at least 500 hours of experience in a facility that does open-heart surgery, and many received training at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa and Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater, she said.

Another advantage of adding the service is that patients will be able to stay in their community hospital, rather than being transferred or taken elsewhere, Myers said.

Nationally, about 250,000 Americans suffer a STEMI each year, according to the American Heart Association.

On average, St. Joseph’s Hospital-North estimates it will treat about two STEMI cases a week as the program ramps up.

The hospital has analyzed the area’s health trends, Myers said.

It is seeing more women with cardiac problems.

“Women present with different symptoms. They sometimes don’t have that crushing pain in their chest. They have back pain. They have shoulder pain. Different kinds of symptoms,” said.

It is also seeing younger people with cardiac issues.

“We have a lot of 40-, 50-year-olds who are in very stressful jobs. And, people are getting younger that are coming in with cardiac history,” she said.

Contributing factors can include people’s diet and other medical conditions, such as diabetes and obesity, she said.

St. Joseph’s Hospital-North is one of six BayCare facilities that can treat STEMI patients.

Heart attack warning signs in men:

  • Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.
  • Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.
  • Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort.

Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness.

Heart attack warning signs in women:

  • Uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain in the center of your chest. It lasts more than few minutes, or goes away and comes back.
  • Pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach
  • Shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort
  • Other signs such as breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness
  • As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting and back or jaw pain.

Source: The American Heart Association

Published September 9, 2015

Riding high, with ribbons to show for it

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Reagan and Pearl have been good friends for a couple of years now.

They spend a few afternoons each week together, and they see each other on weekends, too.

Sometimes they go on trips — to North Carolina and Georgia.

Last month they went to the Kentucky State Fair in Louisville.

And they came home with some ribbons.

Back home in Lutz, Reagan, right, and Pearl show off their qualifying and fourth-place ribbons at Avalon Stables. (Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)
Back home in Lutz, Reagan, right, and Pearl show off their qualifying and fourth-place ribbons at Avalon Stables.
(Michael Murillo/Staff Photo)

Reagan is Reagan Moore, a fourth-grader who lives in Lutz. She’s an A-Circuit equestrian competitor in her spare time.

Pearl is La Perla Merchant, Reagan’s 14-year-old American Saddlebred. Pearl lives at Avalon Stables in Lutz.

Reagan and Pearl went to Kentucky to compete at the World’s Championship Horse Show at the Kentucky State Fair.

They brought home a fourth-place finish in Saddle Seat Equitation in the eight-and-under group.

In that kind of competition, the rider is judged more than the horse — but Reagan is quick to credit her partner for their success.

“She’s a good listener, so she’s pretty easy,” Reagan said of Pearl.

Pearl might be an easy partner, but saddle seat equitation itself is quite difficult. With a couple of reins in each hand, riders are judged by how they guide their horse, and the form and poise they use during the evaluation.

And they’re not out there alone. A group of riders perform at once (a total of 10 in Reagan’s group), all attempting to maneuver into the best position in front of the judges, while also trying to relegate the competition into a lesser spot for viewing. Riders must defend their position and maintain a prominent place for evaluation, but also must stay focused on maintaining control of their horse while showing proper form.

Reagan Moore went to Kentucky to compete at the World's Championship Horse Show, along with her partner, her American Saddlebred, Pearl. (Courtesy of Doug Shiflet Photography)
Reagan Moore went to Kentucky to compete at the World’s Championship Horse Show, along with her partner, her American Saddlebred, Pearl.
(Courtesy of Doug Shiflet Photography)

“It’s just all about your legs, hands and how you sit,” Reagan said. Even the position of their chin makes a difference.

That type of form means a lot of practice, and Reagan and Pearl spend hours each week improving.

When they’re not working on their form, Reagan likes to come by and talk to Pearl and brush her hair, and spend time with her “barn friends” at Avalon.

“It’s just amazing out here. It’s so fun,” she said.

While it might be fun at the stables, performing in front of several thousand people in a different state can be a daunting task, especially to a child.

Pam Roush, owner of Avalon Stables, was there to cheer three of her students at the event, and was proud of how Reagan handled herself.

“This particular little athlete is so poised and so confident with her horse,” she said. “She has no fear, and no thoughts that are negative.”

Reagan has been with Avalon for several years. She started riding when she was 3.

And, Roush has enjoyed seeing her grow into such a competitive athlete even at her young age.

Roush wasn’t the only one rooting for Reagan at the event. Her parents, Allison and Kris, went to Kentucky, as did her grandmother. Her brother, Dylan, stayed home for the beginning of the school year, but was rooting for her at home.

Even though he didn’t grow up around horses, Kris Moore is impressed with his daughter’s success. Seeing her perform at such a large event in front of thousands of people was a special moment.

“It was breathtaking. It’s hard to explain. Just to see her out there and doing it, it was just amazing,” he said.

Getting to that point hasn’t been easy. Between Reagan’s riding and Dylan’s travel baseball, there’s a lot of scheduling and coordinating that keeps the Moore’s calendar full. But it’s worth it, Kris said, because the children are doing something they love and are focused on positive activities.

The trip to Kentucky was a big positive for Reagan and her family. In addition to competing, she had time to see a few sights. She visited a park dedicated to the American Saddlebred, as well as Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby.

Of course, bringing home a ribbon for fourth place was pretty nice, too.

“It was such a great feeling,” Reagan said. “I’m just so proud of (Pearl). It’s just so cool.”

And for Roush, who has seen Reagan grow into a top competitor, watching her longtime student succeed was a great experience, too.

“That’s the ultimate feeling that you can have as an instructor. It’s the reason why we do it,” she said.

Published September 9, 2015

Festival shares joys of flight

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People who are drawn to hot air balloons and aircraft enthusiasts will have plenty to see and do at Festival of Flight 2015.

The event, which will take place from Sept. 11 through Sept. 13 at Tampa North Flight Center, features hot air balloon rides, tethered balloon rides, two balloon glows, two balloon launches, helicopters, planes, live music, a specialty car show and more.

Admission is free and parking is $5.

Inflated hot air balloons create a colorful spectacle during the balloon glow at last year’s Festival of Flight. (File Photos)
Inflated hot air balloons create a colorful spectacle during the balloon glow at last year’s Festival of Flight.
(File Photos)

The festival expects to have 30 balloons coming from Florida, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama, said Jessica Warren, the festival director. There may be even a balloon coming in from Colorado, she said.

Warren also expects about 30 other aircraft: biplanes, war birds, a glider, Cessna and others.

“We have a lot of planes coming in from Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, New Smyrna Beach,” Warren said. The festival is advertised through airports, to let pilots know what is happening.

“A lot of the Facebook advertising that we do targets aviation enthusiasts. There are different clubs on there that we’ve shared the information with, to let them know that it’s happening,” she said.

The festival also will have kites, radio-controlled aircraft, food vendors and entertainment.

There are some new features at the festival, too.

“We have bounce houses this year, which we didn’t have in years past. We have the balls that walk on water. You get inside of them and you walk,” Warren said. And, she added, “We’re trying to get a gyrosphere.”

A hefty dose of rain last year put a damper on attendance at the second annual Festival of Flight, but Jessica Warren, the festival director, is hoping that won’t be the case this year.
A hefty dose of rain last year put a damper on attendance at the second annual Festival of Flight, but Jessica Warren, the festival director, is hoping that won’t be the case this year.

This year’s food vendors include Happy Hangar Café, Salsa Slow Smoked BBQ, Collins Concessions, Heavenly Snow – New Orleans, The Bacon Boss Food Truck, Jimmy’s Slider Food Truck, Kona Ice of Wesley Chapel and Churroland.

There’s also going to be a car show, featuring BMWs and exotic cars.

Helicopter rides start at $25 and tethered balloon rides are $10. The hot air balloon rides are sold out, but a waiting list is being kept. The hot air balloon rides are $189.

There also will be a Quilt of Valor presentation on Friday night, to honor veterans who served in a war zone.

It’s a special presentation, Warren said. “You have to be nominated, and you only receive one in a lifetime.”

All together there are 56 vendors, 11 bands, 30 balloon pilots and at least 30 airplane pilots.

“We have about 20 volunteers coming from Grow Life Church. We have about 30 volunteers from the Civil Air Patrol,” Warren said.

Parking will be at the Compark 75 property, which is next door to the airport and shuttle service will be provided.

When the event started three years ago, Warren knew it would grow.

And, it is attracting widespread interest.

“We have people flying in just for the festival all of the way from Puerto Rico, Maryland, New York. I have people who have called me from all over the United States. These are people who are just coming to see the balloons,” Warren said.

“We still want to kind of keep it in the small-town feel that Wesley Chapel, is. But just like Wesley Chapel is growing, we are growing, too,” Warren said.

Festival of Flight 2015
What: American Balloons and Tampa North Flight Center host the Festival of Flight 2015
When: Sept. 11 to Sept. 13
Where: At the Tampa North Flight Center, 4241 Birdsong Blvd., in Lutz. The particulars: There will be hot air balloons, planes, kites, helicopters, live music, tethered balloon rides, a specialty car show, vendors and more. On Sept. 11 and Sept. 12, there will be an evening balloon glow. On Sept. 12 at and Sept. 13, there will be a hot air balloon launch. Admission is free. Parking is $5. For information and full schedule of events, visit FestivalOfFlightWesleyChapel.com.

Published September 2, 2015